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The editorially independent student newspaper of Shawnee State University 12 APRIL 2017 What’s FREE!TAKE ONE International students visit the inside: U.S. through Shawnee State Human SEAN STEWART, GRAPHIC EDITOR International Forum at fall International Cookout. Rights Garden Shawnee State University is a generally smaller college in the heart of Appalachia PAGE 8 where even many local Ohioans haven’t been exposed to its offerings and merit. Despite Celebration this, Shawnee is part of an international of education effort to bring the world’s youth Scholarship and college educated together through foreign Reports exchange and studying abroad students. Here at Shawnee State, there are a number of international students from a range of different countries across the world. CONTINUED ON PAGE 23 PAGE 10 Big fish, small pond: The Women’s and Gender Shawnee game degrees Equity Center: funding Greek enter program review shortage hurts services Life fundraisers KYLE FOX, GAMING EDITOR PAIGE NEWMAN, ASSISTANT EDITOR In our last issue, the latest Princeton Review for U.S. game programs PAGE 21 was revealed, featuring a sudden decrease in Shawnee State’s The Women’s and Gender Equity Center has been on a journey continually ranked dual-program. Although many new programs are of transition for the past few years. Through shifts in name, cropping up across the nation, it is clear that steps need to be taken in coordinators and services, it has remained a safe haven for students order for the program to stay afloat among the dynamically evolving at Shawnee. This semester, students have been in fear of alterations expansion of game development education. Not much was known on that would negatively affect them and the center. Students have been the correlation for this drop, but degree chairman, Matt Cram, gave assured that the University has no plans of closing the center. some insight on the situation. CONTINUED ON PAGE 17 CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

Letters to the Editorial Staff Editor and column policy The Chronicle welcomes Letters ASSISTANT EDITORS PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR/ CIRCULATION to the Editor and guest columns. Opinions ex- pressed in letters Julie Pastor Madison Harley Hailey Hinch and columns are entirely the Paige Newman opinions of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of PHOTO DIRECTOR FACULTY ADVISOR GAME ARTS EDITOR The Chronicle or Shawnee State University. The Chronicle reserves Mark Romesser Melody Sands Kyle Fox the right to edit letters and columns for clarity, length and grammar. GRAPHICS EDITOR GRAPHICS CONSULTANT This public space is provided for a civil discourse on issues and ideas Sean Stewart Matt Cram important to our democratic soci- ety. If you would like us to consider Mikhail Smith Colby Keller your letter for publication, please include your name, street address Editor leaves legacy, ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER and phone number. Email letters, says goodbye PHOTO EDITOR etc. to: editorial@ shawneechron- Jessica Leesburg Marte Marshall icle.com or mail to: The Chronicle I want to thank all of our readers for the time I have Felicia Stonerock 940 Second St. Portsmouth, OH served as editor for the Shawnee State University 45662 Chronicle. I feel as though we have made many SPORTS EDITOR STAFF REPORTERS advances with the University Newspaper, and I hope to Follow The see the Chronicle continue to grow. Reggie Thomas Andrew Walker Chronicle on Being of the Editor of the Chronicle has provided Deck Fornell Social Media! me with many opportunities, travel and experience Jack McNeal wise. I owe the development of my management and SHAWNEE STATE leadership skills to this paper, and I hope the advances Policies and standards for submissions, UNIVERSITY CHRONICLE that I have pushed for continue to help the paper advertisements, and employment expand. I love seeing the support across campus for SSUCHRONICLE our students just as much as I love seeing our students Submissions of articles, features Display Advertisements for grow. and news: Businesses As this is our last issue of the semester, I will be handing over the reins of The Chronicle to a new staff - Max 750 words. We reserve the right to edit for - Contact Faculty Advisor for advertisement as I continue my education in graduate school this space, grammar and relevance to our readers options (Melody Sands - [email protected] coming fall. I would like to introduce the new Editors - Allow 3 - 4 business days for reply on submission - 740-351-3349) for the 2017-2018 school year: Hailey Hinch and Kyle - For a series submission contact editorial staff - We reserve the right to accept or reject advertisements Fox. I wish them the best and I hope to see many more - Photo submissions, send inquiry to editorial staff based on our criteria for appropriate messages to our students become involved with the paper. We welcome Letters to the Editor readers Your Editor, - Minimum 150 words - Allow 3 - 4 business days for reply on submission Mikhail R. Smith - We reserve the right to edit for clarity, relevance to our readers, space and grammar - Allow 3 - 4 business Employment at The Chronicle Meet our new and coming Editors! days for reply on submission Student Classifieds - Contact staff: [email protected] - Max 25 words - Include your contact information - $1 charge for every 5 words over limit - Desired position - Must adhere to Chronicle standards of decency - Attached samples of your writing, cover letter, - Professional and appropriate photos - Allow 3 - 4 business days for reply on submission - Allow 3 - 4 business days for reply on submission Hailey Hinch Kyle Fox “In some parts of the world, students are “Individual commitment to a group effort - going to school every day. It’s their normal that is what makes a team work, a company @THESSUCHRONICLE life. But in other part of the world, we are work, a society work, a civilization work.” starving for education... it’s like a precious gift. It’s like a diamond.” Malala Yousafzai Vince Lombardi “It is impossible to live without failing at “There are no secrets to success. It is something, unless you live so cautiously the result of preparation, hard work, and that you might as well not have lived at all, in which case you have failed by default.” learning from failure.” Colin Powell J. K. Rowling 2

A bittersweet farewell The Chronicle welcomes our new and returning This time of year, the beauty of Shawnee blossoms. your work. It takes courage to report, write, photograph and Another semester winds down, but there’s an energy in design the paper for all to see because you know you’ll hear staff the air as seniors wrap up their undergraduate experience lots of feedback. in anxious anticipation of the next phase of their lives. Under Mikhail’s leadership, our small staff rose to the Reggie Thomas Deck Fornell Whether it’s a new job, new city or graduate school, it’s all challenges she demanded. Our seniors, Paige Newman, going to be mysteriously wondrous for them. Assistant Editor, Julie Pastor, Assistant Editor, and reporter Sports Editor Assistant Editor That is the true beauty of Shawnee—the students. Jack McNeal led the way with their efforts. We all made Perhaps one of our greatest assets is the smaller enrollment mistakes, corrected them, and learned from them. We all and smaller classroom size. In this environment we who grew. teach get the opportunity to know our students. They I find myself wanting to wipe away a tear of pride that I become like family. We learn how they think and reason. somehow contributed their finding confidence and courage. We ache for them when they struggle, and cheer and quietly I feel a bit of melancholy when a dedicated group of students celebrate when they succeed. The moment when a concept moves on, we teachers lose a bit of ourselves. But that becomes clear, and the proverbial light bulb comes on, we sadness quickly gets replaced with the thrill that they are love to bask in that cognitive glow. walking out of Shawnee with self-assurance and courage I’ve had the privilege to serve as faculty advisor for the to contribute to the rapidly changing world. They have student-run newspaper, The Chronicle. It’s a year-round, prepared the incoming staff, several who will be seniors, hands-on, and time consuming experience to produce the to carry on the progress of The Chronicle. We welcome paper. Sometimes we trade 200 emails, just on a Saturday. Kyle Fox and Hailey Hinch as co-editors; Deck Fornell, as But, it is fascinating to watch the staff work together. Assistant editor, Jessica Leesburg as photo editor, Felicia Our graduating senior Editor Mikhail Smith sets the Stonerock, as assistant photo editor; Sean Stewart as standards higher each issue. Her determined leadership- graphics director, and Reggie Thomas Sports Editor. We by-example has inspired the staff to push and stretch hope long-time Editor Colby Keller has time to stay with themselves. Working on the paper is one of Shawnee’s the paper. When a group of seniors readies themselves for opportunities for students to put their work ‘out there’ for the next transformation, it’s a bittersweet goodbye. public scrutiny. It’s one thing to get the private feedback in Melody Sands, Faculty Advisor the safe enclave of a classroom where only the teacher sees SSU Social Work Club On Mar. 21, the SSU Social Work Club hosted an event stand up for millions of people every day. These include Jessica Leesburg Felicia Stonerock which commemorated March 2017 as National Social individuals who are experiencing health issues, mental Work Month. City of Portsmouth Mayor Jim Kalb was in health crises, joblessness, homelessness, as well as our Photo Editor Assistant Photo Editor attendance and presented a proclamation stating that March veterans, children, families and communities. Social is National Social Work Month in the City of Portsmouth. workers work on micro, mezzo and macro levels, from Sean Stewart There was a video presentation of Rory Truell, Secretary individual, to community to national concerns. General of the International Federation of Social Workers. The University and its staff of dedicated professors have Graphics Editor Truell shared a message about what social workers provided an atmosphere to encourage students to pursue a experience throughout the world. There were two guest career in social work. The degree minor in social work has speakers, Courtney Ruggles and Michele Bennett. Both provided an incredible foundation for people to continue graduated from SSU and have continued their education their education in order to obtain licensure from the state. to become licensed social workers. Michele has received Short of having a Bachelor of Social Work program her LSW, and Courtney has earned her LCSW and is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, it obtaining her Doctorate in Social Work (DSW). Each of would be beneficial to add additional courses in social them shared not only their educational experience but also work. These courses could include human behavior and their experiences in the field. the social environment, intervention, drug/alcohol abuse, The Bureau of Labor statistics reports that there are advocacy, group social work or a host of other beneficial about 650,000 social workers in the United States. The field courses in order to provide a more secure foundation for of social work is a consistently growing field with a faster- students as they further their education. than-average growth rate. The employment rate for social The University has fantastic professors who not only workers is expected to grow 12 percent from 2014 to 2024. provide material knowledge but also passion, skill, and a This growth rate is fueled by health care and social services level of professionalism that prepares and inspires students professions. as they transition to field work or graduate studies. National Social Work Month is an opportunity for social   workers and future social workers, to shine a light on the Jason Tussey profession and highlight the important contributions they President make every day to individuals and society. Social workers SSU Social Work Club 3

Commentary What is Sarin? And did Assad use it? Child killed by Sairn attack. Image gather from CNN The day after the attack the Russian Ministry of Defense the survivors of the Sarin Bombing, leading to further released a statement denying that the Russian or Syrian speculation that this was an intentional and targeted strike. ANDREW WALKER, STAFF REPORTER government had dropped Sarin Gas in the Al-Qaeda The World Health Organization said victims bore the signs held city of Khan Sheikhoun, they claimed that the of exposure to nerve agents, and Amnesty International Sarin Gas is a chemical weapon which inhibits the photos and video of dying victims were reused images said evidence pointed to an “air-launched chemical attack.” electrical signals that tell a person’s lungs how to function from a previous attack that had occurred before the International agencies are investigating the origin of the and was actually outlawed in the early 1990s. Sarin is Syrian President Bashar al-Assad had supposedly given agents used in the strike, although medical experts have used as a weapon not only because of its toxicity, but also up or destroyed all of the country’s chemical weapons. said that the victims’ symptoms are indicative of Sarin Gas. because it can easily transform from its liquid state to a The Kremlin also went on to claim that the reason why With Bashar al-Assad’s well documented, perverse love vapor and in its pure form is 26 times more deadly than it appeared that this dangerous and highly illicit nerve affair with nerve agents, and the shoddy cover up work by cyanide. agent had been dropped was because of an extremist held the Russian Government (which is propping up Assad) it is stockpile of the gas. This, however, is unlikely given safe to assume that he is, once again ordering gas attacks testimony of several civilian victims of the attack which against his own people this time with an estimated death describe, “Chemical bombs falling from the sky” (CNN), toll of over 70v people, including the children pictured. and the testimony of Dan Kaszeta, a chemical weapons We’re the world’s police right? When things like this expert who said in an interview with CNN that Russia’s happen and no one else steps up to stop it the United States version of events was “Highly Implausible” and “Nerve almost always intervenes. I would say that the United States agents are the result of a very expensive, exotic, industrial is mostly moral right? So how can we sit by and let innocent chemical process -- these are not something you just whip men, women, and children LITERALLY be suffocated by up, it’s much more plausible that Assad, who’s used nerve their government through the use of illegal weapons? agents in the past, is using them again.” Hours after the attack, the nearby hospital was treating Texting and talking on the toilet: what is cellphone etiquette? JULIE PASTOR, ASSISTANT EDITOR laws about texting and driving, but clearly we need some 5. Avoid talking about personal or confidential topics in a guidelines about the other stuff, too. public place. I was using the public facilities the other day, when I “Whether we’re talking about mobile etiquette 6. If it must be on and it could bother others, use the heard a woman in the stall next to me talking at full volume technology or not, etiquette is, at its very core, about “silent” mode and move away to talk. on her cellphone. While she was using the commode. On considerate interaction with others, whether you know 7. Don’t make calls in a library, theater, church, or from the toilet. On her phone. I know it’s not really my concern them or not,” says Anna Post, etiquette expert. Following your table in a restaurant. and I went on with my day, but I would be lying if I said that are the top ten rules of cellphone etiquette from The Emily 8. Don’t text during class or a meeting at your job. I wasn’t a little grossed out because, well, yuck. Bathrooms Post Institute, a foremost authority on social etiquette: 9. Private info can be forwarded, so don’t text it. stalls are gross, and I try to touch as few things as possible 1. Be in control of your phone, don’t let it control you! 10. NEVER drive and use your phone at the same time. in there, but then, I’m a bit of a germophobe. Still, I was 2. Speak softly. Etiquette is basically about being considerate to others mostly amazed that she just couldn’t tear herself away from 3. Be courteous to those you are with; turn off your phone and treating others the way you would like them to treat her phone long enough to answer nature’s call, for what, if it will be interrupting a conversation or activity. you. When you are conversing with someone or listening five minutes? 4. Watch your language, especially when others can to a lecture, using your cellphone to text, surf, or whatever But then, I think we are all a little too attached to our overhear you. is conveying a message, whether deliberately or not, that smartphones, myself included. The jury is still out as to that person is not worth your full attention. When you whether cellphones are addictive, but the fact is, people text and drive, you are making the choice that your texting will do some silly, rude, gross, and even dangerous and conversation is more important than other people’s lives. illegal things because they are so emotionally involved with Before we use our phones, we need to stop and think their phones. I see people text and drive all the time, and about others around us. Is using your phone to talk in a yesterday I saw a kid riding a bike down the sidewalk while bathroom stall a breach of etiquette? Probably. Do we all texting. This isn’t just inconsiderate, it is putting ourselves do inconsiderate things we shouldn’t because we just can’t and others at risk. tear ourselves away from our phone? Yes. I am guilty of According to an Intel survey conducted in 2011, 92 it as well. Let’s all make a commitment to stop being so percent of Americans wish people would practice better slavish with our phones and be more considerate of one cellphone etiquette. Admittedly, that survey occurred a another. It won’t hurt us to put down our phones once and while ago, but I don’t think things have gotten better since a while in order to simply be civil. then if people are conversing vociferously on their phones in public bathroom stalls and putting people’s lives in danger on a regular basis as they text and drive. There are 4

Syria missile strikes, a Trump supporter's perspective Commentary JACK MCNEAL, STAFF REPORTER mainstream media has been constantly screeching, “Think in perpetual of the children!” Also, warmongering neoconservatives like civil war, On Thursday, April 6, 2017, President Trump ordered a John McCain are just salivating at the thought of another both shining missile strike onto a Syrian airfield in response to a chemical war, so they have been pushing for America to intervene examples of gas attack on Tuesday, April 4, 2017, that killed dozens of in Syria (these people want a full boots-on-the-ground our failures Syrian civilians. The gas attack was allegedly carried out invasion). Meanwhile a large group of his core supporters in foreign by the Syrian Military and its leader, Bashar al-Assad. I say (myself included) do not want any military intervention policy. “allegedly” because the only real piece of evidence that this at all. So I think Trump took the lightest action possible; This isn't a gas attack came from Assad is a flight map released by our to make a show of force strike that has minimal impact in deal-breaker Department of Defense that supposedly shows the route of Syria but shows he isn't afraid to take action if the need for me, and I the plane that deployed the gas. Congress is mixed about arises. This satisfies the intervention-seeking crowd, at least can actually appreciate the deterrence value in the strike, the incident, with some members praising President Trump, for a little while. While it may raise ire in his supporters, but there are things I would like to see in the future. An others criticizing the rashness of the strikes, and others even many will see this as a onetime flexing of military muscle investigation into the source of the chemical weapons, and skeptical that the gas attack came from Assad. Regardless, to put the world on notice, and to show Syria that America some actual proof that Assad used them, for one. I don't Trump authorized these strikes suddenly, without seeking won't tolerate chemical weapons, whether Assad used them actually care that he didn't discuss it with Congress, but congressional approval or an investigation into the origin or not. The timing of having the Chinese president visiting it would be to his benefit to work with them on the topic, of the chemical attack. As a Trump supporter, I have mixed during the strike has the double effect of showing we will if only to keep impulsive actions in check and to keep feelings about this strike, and while ultimately I can live respond to North Korean aggression as well, if necessary. things transparent. And I would like some assurance from with this move, I do have concerns. If it were up to me, I would not have ordered this strike. Trump that this is just a single incident. I didn't vote for The biggest issue concerning this missile strike is that From my understanding, the quickest path to an end to the neo-conservatism, or for military intervention, and while I Syria is allied with Russia, and the fear is that an attack on Syrian civil war is to either just let Assad and the Russians don't believe Trump is interested in either of these things, Syria would result in retaliation against the U.S. by Russia. clean the rebels out, or to assist them in doing so. This civil there are others in the government that will try to corrupt According to a CNBC article, the Trump administration war would have never taken off if the Obama administration him towards these practices. My advice to Trump would preemptively warned Russia and Syria about the strike hadn't armed the Syrian rebels in the first place in an attempt be to focus on improving the economy and other domestic so they could minimize casualties. There are conflicting at subtle regime change. While Assad isn't a good person, policies, and not to let the Neocons drag us into another reports about the number of people killed by the strike, at least he keeps the region somewhat stable. If we were to unnecessary war. Work on making America great again and some sources claim six people were killed, others saying as intervene and miraculously depose him without somehow not making somewhere else worse. many as 16. angering Russia, Syria would likely turn into yet another The political problem is that Trump ran for president on violent quagmire like Iraq or Libya, two nations locked a position of non-interventionism. So why would he attack Syria? Well, I believe that the president found himself between a rock and a hard place. Ever since the attack, Senior Seminar is inconsistent with what college is SEAN STEWART, GRAPHICS EDITOR paper and a presentation of it. This reality in the eyes of be placed within a course that makes practical use of the many college students is worrisome and very problematic. skills they’ve pursued for the past four years or more. For As a graphic design major, my fellow students will catch “It sucks,” says a student who wishes to remain example, internship search courses or large senior projects me attending mostly studio courses where the work consists unidentified. “It’s stupid that the whole grade rests on a 20- would greatly benefit a student’s skill in their respective of hands-on, project based material. Little paperwork, and page paper and presentation.” To teach students to work for fields. They would also give professors a true and practical few books are involved, but the work, contrary to popular skill and mastery of major-specific content throughout the understanding of what the students are actually learning belief, is intensive and skill-heavy. Different computer years of their college careers only to reduce such thinking outside of how well to write long, stretched out papers programs are utilized, and more than just a general into a paper that barely must relate to their majors is that will never benefit them. And applied demonstration knowledge of color theory is needed to succeed in a career problematic. Especially if this one paper in this one class is of skills will always surpass strict paper writing and will of logo and brand design, photo and video editing. The one of the deciding factors of graduation for students. better prepare students for the workforce, where there ability to work hard at practically packaging information “Senior sem for some majors seems like a waste of will be no papers written anyway. It makes sense, and is for audiences in a range of fields is also necessary. Despite time,” Jordan Molnar, a senior history major at Shawnee consistent with what student have been doing all along. this, it seems inconsistent to the point and structure of the State says. “For history majors, we spend our time learning Senior Seminar across the board needs serious practical graphic design program, and many others as I understand informative papers, not argumentative. We also write a revision, for a practical world. them, to merit “success” based on one class… Senior paper in historical methods class. This makes Senior sem a Seminar. little redundant.” After an average of four years being spent in an A model that would, in popular belief, be more undergraduate program studying a field, four years of favorable to a course like Senior Seminar would be one attempting mastery in a specific major, and four years that incorporates students and their majors in a different of classes already requiring heavy research and practical light. Rather than writing and presenting a topic that application of skill and proficiency, students at colleges all must only minutely relate to their major, students should over the nation are still required to base all of their college career on one class which requires just one assignment – one 5

24-hour study space to open in April HAILEY HINCH, EDITOR phones and laptops, seating, 12 computers, and a printer. will have 24-hour availability along with Mondays, The space was acquired through support from SGA, SSU Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. Shawnee State students should expect a new area Administration, and the Board of Trustees. The Bear Cave There is no official opening date set for The Bear Cave and dedicated to their needs of accessible space for all-nighters was originally an area set aside for board meetings, but with comfortable seating is still being acquired for the area, but and last minute deadlines. wide spread support across Shawnee’s campus it will soon it will be opening early April. The library staff encourages The Bear Cave will be an addition to Clark Memorial be an additional zone to meet the needs of students. curiosity of the space, so you can ask for a sneak peek of the Library as a study space for students with hours that The Bear Cave’s hours will parallel the library’s with the new study area at Clark Memorial Library’s service desk. coincide with the library’s, but with extended hours not exception of some days having 24-hour access. Sundays met by the CML. The space will provide students extensive access to work areas with power accessibility to charge The Student Government Association serves the students and makes changes based on student opinion for the betterment of the student life here at Shawnee State University. SGA meets every Tuesday at 4 pm. in the UC ballroom, anyone is welcome to join. To contact SGA please email us at [email protected]. SGA is looking forward to the Bear Cave twenty-four- hour study space to be opening before finals, photos can be found on our Facebook page. SGA hosted new executive board training for organizations March 31. If your organization missed this, there will also be one in the fall. Evening of Honors will be held on April 21st in the Flohr lecture hall. We look forward to bringing more students aboard next semester. If you have any interesting in participating in SGA, make sure you check us out at Weekend Of Welcome (W.O.W.) as well as in the first week of classes! We want to work with and for the betterment of all students! We look forward to seeing you next semester! 6

Shawnee State Bears moving on An act of war, hypocrisy: Commentary to graduate school Trump’s trigger happy hands, MADISON HARLEY, PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR though small, can cause As the Spring semester comes to an end, the campus of Shawnee State University is facing emotions of both happiness and sadness. We are less than one month away from mass destruction, death graduation, and many students, including myself, are reaching the end of their time on this campus. Many graduating students are continuing in their academic pursuits and HAILEY HINCH, CIRCULATION lives of the wounded. As long as going onto graduate school. Congratulations to these Bears! We are so proud of your America stands for justice, then accomplishments. “President Obama, do not attack Syria,” peace and harmony will in the end Isaac Burton, Ball State’s Master of Science Program in General Sciences -Donald Trump’s twitter. Sept. 7, 2013 prevail.” PEACE AND HARMONY Cameron Douthat, Bowling Green State University’s PhD Program in Sociology It is so easy in this technologically connected DO NOT PREVAIL WHEN Madison Harley, Capital University Law School world to see the faces of others suffering across BOMBS ARE USED! Bombs are Zachary Marsh, University of Cincinnati’s James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy the globe and it seems easier to turn a blind eye never sent as a messages of peace. Robbie Gates, University of Dayton’s Doctor of Physical Therapy Program to the peaceful and positive ways to help. The Bombs are sent to kill and start war! Sarah Hunts Grand Canyon University’s Masters of Education Program crisis in Syria caught the attention of Trump, More death and destruction does Meagan Redoutey-Beery, Indiana State University’s Physician Assistant Program so much so that he ordered American missile nothing to help those innocent lives Miranda Melvin, University of Louisville School of Dentistry strikes illustrating the inability to offer peaceful on the ground in Syria. Never in the Tiffany Walters, University of Louisville’s MSSW Program assistance. Donald Trump ordered a military history of human existence has the Jordan Webb, Marshall University School of Pharmacy strike on Syria. Thursday, April 6, Trump sent answer to violence, war, death, and destruction Terry Waddell, Marshall University’s Medical Sciences Masters Program dozens of U.S. missiles into Syria targeting an been more violence, war, death, and destruction. Kanissa Carrico, University of Mount Union’s Doctor of Physical Therapy Program air base that is said to have been the site that Bombs do not end wars. Missiles can’t do that Zion Dials, Ohio State University College of Pharmacy launched chemical weapons this past week on because they are inanimate objects. It is people Chuck Norris, Ohio State University’s Masters of Mathematical Sciences Program, its own citizens. who both start and end wars. Specialization: Computational Sciences Trump was with his senior advisers that included What is most troubling besides the amount Kara Passeno, Ohio State University’s Masters of Social Work Program Stephen Bannon, a known white supremacist, of life that will be lost due to humanity’s innate Mikhail Smith, Ohio State University’s School of Communication his daughter Ivanka, a fashion designer, chief ability to destroy is the fact that Trump refuses Sarah Cremeans, Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine strategists Reince Priebus and several others. to let in Syrian refugees. Trump has stated Jacob Harris, Ohio University’s Masters of Sociology Program Trump shared in a statement this information complete distaste for allowing innocent war Johelen Taylor, Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine on Thursday night at his Mar-a-Lago estate in fleeing Syrian refugees into our nation, yet now Lauren Wright, Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine Florida, which is a Trump-owned luxury golf he is so greatly concerned for their safety? Mara McGee, Tiffin University’s Masters of Criminal Justice Program club. The U.S. missiles do not show our strength; Conner Rahm, University of Toledo PhD Program in Chemistry Mar-a-Lago and Trump’s affinity for they show our inability to learn from mistakes Sabrina Callaway, Virginia Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine taxpayer-funded golfing trips that seem to be that have plagued our country’s past for Clayton Spencer, West Virginia University College of Osteopathic Medicine weekly, is a discussion all on its own, but what centuries. This seems like the start of the needs to be focused on is the issue of what Vietnam War for the new millennium. The 7 he decided without congressional approval. same exact mistakes and unthoughtful and What Trump has decided on his own, with unapproved intervention on America’s part lead his daughter at his side to ensure that this to immense loss of life and no positive results. presidency exemplifies only the finest forms I fear that we are repeating mistakes we of nepotism, is that he has power to take lives learned about in our high school history classes. when he wants. This makes me believe there is underlying, He has shown that with a snap of his orange self-serving reasoning behind this act of war. fingers that he can send killing machines to any Whether it is Trump wanting to test his power location in the world. He has shown that he can over the American military or whether it has do this without the American people’s approval. something to do with Russia ties, we will not Even numerous of his supporters are against know until decades later when a new generation this action, as they should be, since there can of children are learning about our mistakes in be serious consequences that may arise from their history class. this strike, not to mention the notion of legality Trump sending U.S. missiles nonchalantly regarding its lack of approval. When someone without congressional approval is an act of is a leader of a democratic country, answers to stupidity, but it is also an act of war coming no one but himself and acts without approval from an insecure man who wishes himself an of its citizens and representative government, all-powerful god. then that person is not a democratic leader. That person is not a president. That person is a dictator who places no value on human life or peace and harmony. At the end of his statement on April 6, Trump concluded with the sentiment “We pray for the

Human Rights Garden created at Portsmouth High School TAYLOR MERSHON & SKYE HILES, CONTRIBUTORS Students on field trip at Rio Grande working with Kevin Lyles on the lost-wax casting. The future generation is making waves today, not Current state of the garden. tomorrow. Led by local artist/teacher at Portsmouth High School, April Deacon, the students of Portsmouth City Students watch Kevin Lyles on the lost-wax casting. Schools are creating a garden near Portsmouth High School’s coliseum. The garden is meant to stand for 8 equality and the rights that every human deserves. The art students at Portsmouth were able to work with three visiting artists, Kevin Lyles, Bryan Thomas and Garet Martin. These artists taught the students many different skills, from working with bronze to horticulture. This garden became possible with a generous donation from The Ohio Arts Council and a $5,000 donation from Lowe’s Toolbox for Education, Deacon said. Deacon had several reasons that made her to desire to create this garden. “I wanted to create a permanent learning environment that would provide a hands-on experience for students throughout multiple grade levels and multiple disciplines. I selected the theme of human rights because of its universal applications. Human Rights can be addressed in every classroom,” she said. The students have learned a lot about human rights and their importance in life. This garden has already started to impact the students of Portsmouth High School. The students see the garden as a light of hope for the future that all people will have their rights protected. The garden is a stepping stone of hope and that will impact the community, as well as give Portsmouth its first community garden. When asked what he thought of the future garden, Lukas Maschmeier, a senior at the high school said, “It’s a great idea because in one word, the garden is hope. It shows that we, a younger generation, are willing to make a difference in human rights awareness.” The eighth-grade social studies students at Portsmouth High School will study the soil in the garden and search for artifacts that they will tag with help from staff of the Hopewell Culture National Historical Park. The fifth-grade students were able to focus on the plants that were going to be used for the garden. This is where visiting artist Martin helped ensure that the plants chosen worked in the space but did not take away from the art. The high school 3D art class was able to go on field trips to places such at The University of Rio Grande where they watched their work become bronze through the process of lost-wax casting. They also visited the Franklin Park Conservatory in Columbus, where they explored Martin’s workplace and the plants that may be put into the garden. Deacon’s goal is for future classes of Portsmouth to be able to add art and things such as an outdoor physical fitness area, a vegetable garden, and an outdoor exhibition space for art displays. To be able to achieve this goal and add to the garden, funds are needed. If you would like to donate, contact Portsmouth High School at (740)353-2398 and ask for April Deacon. A dedication ceremony will be held at an undetermined future date. Visiting artist, Bryan Thomas from Wales showing students how to work with the bricks that will be used for the path of the garden.

Staff from Hopewell Culture National Historical Park working with fifth graders from Portsmouth Elementary School. Students at the Franklin Park Conservatory. Stone sign for the garden. 9

Shawnee miniature: 3D printing campus Celebration of Scholarship TYLER PARRETT & MATTHEW BOLL, CONTRIBUTING REPORTERS In this project, we set out to make a miniature version of the campus. We also discussed the different ways that one could go about making an anticultural model, in specific on the University Center. Next, we took measurements using 3D printing. The reason for this project is that we off images on Google Maps. Then, we plugged the direct wanted to have a functional three-dimensional map that measurements from the images into our 3D Modeling could possibly become a fixture on the campus. By doing so software. Next, we had to print the building using a Marked we have found that with 3D printing one can make a more Forged 3D printer that prints Nylon. After that we then detailed map in less time than what could have been done made the plywood base. with traditional methods. The total time we spent on the project was 18 consecutive Traditional methods include using foam core models to days or 216 hours. If a human were shrunk to fit our model make the wall and the general structure of the building. that person would be about 0.17 inches tall. With this project, There are also cardboard and plywood models that work we went through several steps to get to the final product. In in the same way as the foam core models. These are time- this we have found that 3D printing of architectural models consuming and will require someone who is skilled in is and will be an easier way of going about the process. model-making to make a detailed version of the building Through that process, we ended up conquering many Now to consider 3D printing. This is something that is challenges along the way. Not only that, we have also found already being used in the field but is not very popular. We that, compared to the more traditional style of making have the printer that is rated highest in the 3D anticultural models, 3D printing is the future of architectural models. world. They can be used to do early stage modeling and Matthew Boll and Tyler Parrett present 3D printing. Photo by Felicia Stonerock. other building models. Now for our miniature, this is a five-step process. First, we had to find a scale. We got the overall length and width using Google Maps and by measuring the north-facing wall Developing a higher level programming language for music composition Neural networks and stock market predictions MCKAYLA PATRICK, ENGL 1105 CONTRIBUTOR MCKENZIE CAIN, ENGL 1105 CONTRIBUTOR they used along with the pros and cons that came with them. Ferguson and Polanco tried parametric model as well as a Kory Byrne presented on a new type of computer Every year, Shawnee State University hosts an non-parametric model. The parametric model was queried programming designed for music composition. Byrne undergraduate research conference called the Celebration fast but learned slowly, while the non-parametric queried started this project at the beginning of the Spring semester. of Scholarship. Shawnee State is one of the few schools that slowly but did not need to learn so training was fast. He is an engineering student, but has a passion for music. holds a conference where undergraduates can present, unlike Ferguson and Polanco decided to use linear regression, He was quick to mention his creation was just a prototype the usual graduate student conferences that are the typical which is a non-parametric model for their examples they and has some bugs to work out. However, the complexity for other schools. The presentation “Investigating Stock presented. of the project was quite intriguing. Market Predictions Using Artificial Neural Networks” was Ferguson and Polanco’s workflow consisted of some Byrne’s new program combines technology with the led by two Shawnee State honor students, Andrew Polanco basic training, a lot of problem solving and testing. They brilliance of a human composer. He examines both the and Austin Ferguson. talked about their struggle in the beginning stages to get musical theory needed to be accurate and the algorithms Ferguson and Polanco’s explained that the goals for their the neural networks to recognize any pattern in the stocks needed to create the technical side. He uses something project was to understand artificial neural networks, apply and attributed it to the initial framework they had done. called Declarative Programming which uses rules that are machine learning algorithms to stock symbol data, and Ferguson and Polanco explained the issue of overfitting, specified to the computer as opposed to a list of commands. compare and contrast the different methods for using these which is when the program is too complex and may have too It is split into multiple programming languages, the most techniques. Polanco described artificial neural networks as many parameters compared to the number of observations common being known as C. The program uses two notions. a type of machine learning that attempts to replicate the inputed. The benefit Ferguson and Polanco got from their They are called Scanners and Motivators. Scanners are way a human brain works. project was that they were researching an emerging field responsible for picking a bass line and keeping chords The research that Ferguson and Polanco presented and how they should go about doing their future studies and whole. contained the history of neural networks, furthering their projects. The program focuses on technique not creativity. If understanding of algorithms and regression models, as one plays a G chord, there are only a few ways one can well as stock trends in past years. When researching correctly play it. If you try to get too creative, then you are algorithms, they tried to learn more about linear regression no longer playing a G chord. The programming Byrne has and K- Nearest Neighbor to use with the artificial neural developed keeps the creation of the chords in check. Notes networking. They then talked about the regression models are the fundamental object. If one combines notes, then he has melodies and eventually chords. When all of these are combined it is called voicing. 10

Raigan Sammons presents at Celebration of Scholarship. Abigail Henke showing off her hard work. Photo by Jessica Leeburg. Katie Sebring and Noah Wickerham present. Stacy Wheeler and Carrie Wynn speak at Celebration of Scholarship Keynote speaker at Celebration of Scholarship. Photos by Felicia Stonerock 11

Molecular Cloning of Leah Whitehead discusses controversial Chicken FOXC1 for Gene Sensory Integration Disorder Expression Analysis JULIE PASTOR, ASSISTANT EDITOR JASON BROGDON, ENGLISH 1105 CONTRIBUTOR Leah Whitehead, SSU senior, discussed Sensory Integration This presentation displayed research on the molecular Disorder on Thursday, March 30 at 10 cloning of a chicken by Lindsey Baker and Nicole Stimmel. a.m. during the 2017 Celebration of The cloning of a chicken was not for the entirety of the Scholarship. Whitehead, a 3+2 BSOT/ chicken but for a certain strand of DNA that is involved MOT major, which is an accelerated in the formation of the jaw bone. They were looking for occupational therapy degree, will be a method to copy this DNA and try to fix problems of jaw attending Shawnee in the fall studying deformations present in chickens and other mammals as for her master’s in occupational therapy. well. They discovered that copying this DNA was very Her mentor was Dr. Rhoni Maxwell- difficult because the particular strand of DNA was difficult Rader. The title of her presentation was to find as it varied in different chickens. “The Validity of Sensory Integration Disorder: Its Beliefs, Research, Does Acute Myelogenous Treatment, and Foundations of Leukemia Use Anaerobic Ideological Differences.” Glycolysis? Let’s Find Out! Whitehead began by presenting a Power-Point, acknowledging the JASON BROGDON, ENGLISH 1105 CONTRIBUTOR controversial nature of the diagnosis of Sensory Integration Disorder, also The presentation by Aaron Wamsley and Johelen Taylor known as Sensory Processing Disorder. focused on finding a new way to treat acute myeloid The disorder was first documented by leukemia cancer. The students tried to force cells to not Jean Ayres in 1963. Although widely ferment, which is a leading cause of the form of cancer and diagnosed, experts disagree on the they attempted to test the idea whether DCA will prevent validity of the disorder, and it is not fermentations of white blood cells. It was discovered found in the Diagnostic and Statistical that this notion would not be successful in the prevention Manual of Mental Disorders. or treatment of this form of leukemia as the results were Sensory Integration Disorder is inconclusive and the experiment did not stop the spread of a disorder in which the patient has the cancer cells. difficulty detecting sensory input and/ or processing it properly. It is typically Development of an treated by an occupational therapist. Embryonic Model System Found primarily in children, all senses to Study Pathogenesis of can be affected, and it may begin Diabetes Related Birth affecting patients as early as birth. Some Leah Whitehead, 2017 Clark Memorial Library Research Award winner. Submited photo. Defects signs of Sensory Integration Disorder might include a child who hates to have their hair brushed, likes existence, although the University of California did find JASON BROGDON, ENGLISH 1105 CONTRIBUTOR to smell people, hates to try new foods, etc. Whitehead also gave differences in the posterior brain of patients with Sensory the example of a kid who is riding a bike, hears the rumble of the Processing Disorder. Lauren Wright and Dustin Hines, two Shawnee State car, but whose brain does not process it properly and therefore Whitehead concluded that, in her opinion, there is students presented in the Celebration of Scholarship does not recognize the danger of a nearby car. observational evidence of the existence of Sensory their findings from research on the effects of diabetes in She noted that the disorder can have a negative impact on Processing Disorder, but that more experimental research the womb resulting in fetal birth defects. These students learning and relationships, that it could prevent patients from needs to be conducted to prove the validity of the diagnosis. injected chicken fetuses with glucose and tested to see being able to participate in things such as field trips, and that She plans, in her future professional life as an occupational what birth defects it would cause. Their discoveries were inability to concentrate could lead to acts of aggression caused by therapist, to use the diagnosis only as a secondary diagnosis that many birth defects in the chicken fetuses appear frustration. to other disorders such as autism and ADHD. within the womb after exposure to glucose. They found a Opponents of the diagnosis, Whitehead informed us, insist that Leah Whitehead was the recipient of the 2017 Clark deformed spinal column, deformed heart, and many other Sensory Integration Disorder is a normal part of growing up and Memorial Library Research Award for her presentation and deformations. All these defects are from a result of diabetes that it is usually outgrown. They assert that disorder symptoms paper. in the womb. overlap with ADHD and autism symptoms as well. It is not accepted in the United States Healthcare System, nor is it found in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. There is very little experimental evidence of the disorder currently in 12

Student shows off nature presentation at COP. Photo by Jessica Leesburg. Students present at COP. Photo by Jessica Leesburg. Solar Energy and its impact on the United States’ economy ZACHARY A KELLY, ENGLISH 1105-07 Heath Unger presenting on solar energy. CONTRIBUTOR different things like a 24 hour study The first guest speaker that I was area and even different ways to make able to listen to was Heath Unger. student employment better than what Unger did his presentation on “Solar it already is. It was very inspiring to Energy and Its Impact on the United see that the university is making these States’ Economy.” This presentation steps to improve the way that things was based on the positives of solar are being done, hopefully bringing in energy, but also some of the negative new facilities and improve resources effects that come from this type of for students now and in the future. energy. One thing that Unger said that really stood out at the end of his speech was: “if we rely on our government solar energy will never take off.” The power point that he presented was mainly based on the positive impact on solar energy but he also spoke about how negatively it influenced on the farming industry. Cloud Infrastructure Changes at Shawnee State University The second presenter was Alyssa VonUehm, who spoke about how Shawnee State University is planning on improving as since the year 2012, Shawnee State has experienced a decline in enrollment and this is having an effect on the income of the school. She presented how Shawnee State is working on many 13

Springfest 2017 a huge hit among students MADISON HARLEY, PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR Wakka Flocka joins crowd and takes a selfie with audience. Photo by Marte Marshall. On Friday, Mar. 31, Shawnee State held their Springfest Alyssa Messer was one of the lucky students able to take Kings connected with everyone even if you didn’t know concert featuring two well-known artists, We The Kings a Snapchat video with Waka Flaka Flame, and stated, “I their songs. There were songs I didn’t know but I loved and Waka Flocka Flame. The concert was held in the Vern had a great time! It was cool to actually have something every minute of it and I love how honest they were when it Riffe Center for the Arts, and allowed for an intimate different at Shawnee. Especially meeting him was a really came to their music. They did more than perform they set a performance from both artists. From the very beginning, cool experience.” higher expectation for the next performers for Spring Fest students were excited for the performers and many were Springfest received great reviews from the students who if we have more. I enjoyed every minute of it and I will be standing up dancing for the DJ who performed on before have given us feedback. Shawnee State Student Brandy back next year.” the show. Wilkerson stated: “I thought the concert was full of energy. For more content related to Springfest, including pictures We The Kings took the stage first, opening with their I was glad that everyone enjoyed themselves. My favorite and videos, please visit our Facebook page “Shawnee State one of their most well-known songs, “Check Yes Juliet.” part was towards the end of the concert where Waka Flocka University Chronicle”, or our Instagram @SSUChronicle. One thing was clear from the beginning – this group was walked through the crowd and the upper tier sections. He focused on the crowd and making sure everyone was showed love to the students all throughout the crowd and enjoying themselves. At one point in the performance, a that was nice! He made sure everyone saw him up close and student in the front told the lead singer, Travis Clark, that personal! He was full of energy and he made sure he gave she had missed “Check Yes Juliet” since it was the first song the students a great show. He wasn’t afraid to be himself performed that night. Clark quickly responded by saying, and that is what made the concert even better. Also, We The “We will play the song again… I don’t care what we play up here, we just want to make you guys happy.” Another very notable aspect of the performance from We The Kings would be that they explained most of their songs and gave some background as to why they were written or what they were written about. At one point, Clark was discussing a song he wrote about his first sexual experience. However, instead of explaining things with proper terminology, he explained the situation using the game Tetris. He told the audience his reasoning behind this “cleaned up” version, was because he has a young daughter who might watch their YouTube videos someday. We The Kings offered a performance which got students on their feet and dancing. The band was able to keep the students involved through hand waving and using their phones as “strobe lights.” Even students who may not have necessarily known all the words to the songs were able to catch on and enjoy themselves. We The Kings certainly gave students the fun performance we all needed at this point in the semester. After We The Kings finished their set, the energy was even higher as students waited for Waka Flaka Flame to take the stage. It was clear from the beginning that the performer was high energy and excited to perform, as he came out dancing and throwing water to students. Some bottles were even open and Waka Flaka Flame poured the water out into the crowd. Students were clearly excited from the beginning, and the energy of the crowd remained high throughout the performance. One of the most notable aspect of Waka Flaka Flame’s performance would be when he went out into the crowd of students and walked through the aisles. Singing, dancing, and taking pictures with students was one stand-out aspect of the night, as Waka Flaka Flame made it a point to have each student, even those in the very back, have a good time and feel included. Snapchats and pictures flooded social media with moments captured during this part of the show, as well as many other great moments, showing the fun students were able to have at Springfest. Student 14

Red Flag week at Shawnee State Travis Clark of “We the Kings” waves to the audience at Spring Fest. Red Flag Dean and Speaker Jyrece McClendon. Jyrece McClendon speaks of domestic violence . Photos by Martè Marshall. DJ readies crowd for main acts. Photos by Martè Marshall 15

Art by Jeremiah Fort Photos by Felicia Stonerock 16

Big fish, small pond: Shawnee game degrees enter scheduled program review KYLE FOX, GAMING EDITOR or other 3D classes,” said Emiliano Diaz, another junior in 50 companies involved with the games industry in some way, the gaming degree. Gaming Arts students are expected to which could be potential sources of work for SSU alumni. “We’re in a growth year,” said Cram as he painted a picture take pre-calculus, calculus, and linear algebra in order to The degrees are currently under a quinquennial program review of the foreseeable future. Shawnee offers a competitive graduate, but many students feel the lessons are not useful which involves surveying graduates and nearby universities for program, especially for the area, and provides strengths or appropriate to what is needed in their design classes and potential future investments and ideas to improve the major. “We such as “competent faculty, a great selection of programs feel it is more of a means to weed students out. Additionally, need to be in a state of constant improvement, being adaptable all used in classes, small class sizes, and the interaction of dual the students must take four art history classes. of the time,” said Cram. There are two key aspects that the chair programs [arts & engineering].” Despite this, the roughly Students are also asking for more involvement with their feels will breathe new life into the degree: hiring more faculty 10-year-old program has its share of drawbacks that have fellow programmers throughout the degree experience. “If and providing additional resources and knowing how to better use potentially slowed its progress. we had a class where they put a small group of [artists and those resources. “We need more faculty; we have been asking for more programmers] together to make a game, we could be very “The [rank] drop is extremely unnerving,” Doub added. “I faculty for years,” Cram stressed. The approximately well-prepared for when we do our senior project,” Diaz don’t think the program has gotten worse, but I think others have 130-student flagship gaming arts program has been manned elaborated. Senior Studio is a rite of passage for all gaming gotten better. It is a bit frustrating that before I could say that I by two key professors, Greg Lyons and Howard Dortch, students, which pairs all seniors together to produce one big studied at an extremely highly-ranked school on my resume. Now who teach 3D modeling and game design respectively, game over the span of two semesters. There are virtually no I can’t and it’s a bit disheartening.” No matter how it’s looked for quite some time now. “We have always needed more required prerequisite classes that prepare students for this at, Shawnee continues its small-town pride with a significant [faculty],” Cram continued. Such few staff has led to an class, which makes some students uncomfortable or feeling educational opportunity. New schools are on the rise and SSU will array of issues such as tight class scheduling, minimal unprepared. The closest thing to it is an optional group have to find ways to sustain its credibility through adapting and advanced educational opportunities, and large amounts of project class that is typically taken by freshmen, but could investing in new opportunities, always sailing forward. stress on hardworking professors. Further adaptations to be invested in to teach skills to up-and-coming sophomores the degree could be made with new talent getting involved and juniors. in the curriculum. “We really need another person to A collection of proposed improvements has been compliment Greg [Lyons],” which would allow for balance compiled by multiple junior-level students in hopes to see and a share of ideas across the broad collection of topics this Princeton Review rank turn around. One of the most that the professor covers over the sophomore, junior, and supported recommendations is the implementation of an senior level classes he is responsible for. internship program. As it stands, Shawnee State has no Undergraduate students within the major have shared internship opportunities for aspiring game artists, which their feelings on this issue, discussing a considerable leaves a void between the education of students to the amount of improvements that they believe will help boost experience of developers. Other universities have adapted the rank for the beloved degree. Collectively, these students and connected with companies, which has snowballed care very much for the university and major and don’t into companies hiring their graduates on the spot. “Our intend to make complaints without follow-through, but location makes it very difficult,” said Cram, reflecting hope to create a dialog for productive changes. on the Southern Ohio area compared to prolific game A shared issue among the chair of the program and environments such as Raleigh, North Carolina or Austin, students is the reality of the arts faculty being understaffed. Texas, “but we are very fortunate to have a program like “With so few professors, you can’t have these more this here.” advanced, specialized classes; the program is stuck giving The separation of university to game studios not only a bit of it all in each class,” said Christian Doub, junior affects internship opportunities, but it also makes it difficult in the gaming arts program. Doub further emphasized his to hire new talent without proper investment. Among the wish for there to be more specialized classes that focus drought of SSU gaming faculty, there is a need for more on specific topics and go more in depth such as texturing, educators in a time where they’re becoming increasingly environments, and prop design. available. The university is currently working on a path “Another thing is the amount of classes required to get to reversing a deficit, so intelligent investments need deep into the game development classes is a little ridiculous,” to be made in order to perpetuate enrollment within the Doub continued. Using comparisons to the engineering degree track. The separation also affects the future plans track, Doub discussed how quickly programmers get into of Shawnee graduates who hope to pursue experience the ‘nitty gritty’ of game development whereas the artists in the games industry. Without previous connections take roughly a year of introductory art classes that don’t with local businesses and a lack of opportunities in the exactly reflect the requirements for later classes. “[Students] immediate area, graduates are commonly forced to leave trudge through a ton of preliminary classes before getting the area or state altogether to find work. According to www. into the real work.” areweinyourtate.org, a website that shows the impact of the Math classes are another hurdle that students feel affected games industry across the United States, there are roughly by. “Artists don’t need all of the required math classes they make us do. These classes could be used more on texturing 17

Game preview “Prey” Cover art for “Prey” videogame. Photo gathered from Google Images REGGIE THOMAS, STAFF REPORTER Players will venture through the station with an open world style of Prey is an upcoming first-person play. Prey takes place in an alternate shooter video game developed by timeline where United States Arkane Studios and published by President John F. Kennedy survives Bethesda Soft Works. This game is the assassination attempt in 1963. scheduled to be released on May As President, Kennedy directs more 5, 2017 for Microsoft Windows, funding into the space program, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. In Prey, allowing it to flourish. Drawn by players will control a man named humans’ activity in space, an alien Morgan Yu while he is exploring the force made up of many different moon-orbiting space station Talos species, collectively called the I, where research into a hostile Typhon, attacks Earth. This action- alien collective called the Typhon packed thriller gives a horrific feeing is performed. As the Typhon escape of uneasiness similar to the 2015 confinement, the player will have horror game Alien Isolation. With the use of a variety of weapons and only a few more weeks until it arrives, abilities derived from the Typhon. Prey is expected to climb the charts The main goal of the player is to as one of the best upcoming games in avoid being killed by the aliens while 2017. looking to escape the station. Shawnee theatre students perform Rashomon www.templetime.org Director - Brian Glenn SEAN STEWART, GRAPHICS EDITOR McDowell, who plays the part of the Samurai in the production. “We’re putting a lot of work into it. I’m super The Vern Riffe Center for the Arts is proud to be center excited!” stage for Rashomon, a play production being put on by the The cast and crew of Rashomon would like for the theatre department of Shawnee State University. This theatrical Shawnee State community and Portsmouth area to consider adaptation of Rashomon is based on the 1950 Japanese film of attending the show and enjoy the play performance. Ticket the same name directed by Akira Kurosawa. sales have begun and can be purchased at either the Vern Running dates are from April 20 -22 as well as April 27–29. Riffe Center for the Arts Box Office, located in the lobby of Rashomon is set around a plot in feudal Japan as a Samurai’s the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts on the campus of Shawnee death sparks a deep investigation wherein multiple people must State University, or online at ww.vrcfa.com. Prices are $10 give testimony to their accounts and versions of the incident. In for standard adult tickets and $8 for senior tickets. a sort of “hoodwinked” plot line, the show will be a treat for fans who love mystery and excitement. “It’s a really gritty piece, a lot of action drama” says Joseph 18

Theatre’s first graduating seniors DECK FORNELL, STAFF REPORTER for her performances, and her career. Jonnie Carpathios and Natalee Swallows in Evita. “I got a lot of individual attention. I can sing a lot better Shawnee State University’s Theatre Program completes than when I started, much better vocally, and much more John Huston and Natalee Swallows Sydney Metz, Jonnie Carpathios, Natalee the 2017 spring semester by having its first graduating class range,” Metz said. in Of Thee I Sing. Swallows in Boeing, Boeing transition directly into working within their prospective Swallows previously visited Wright State, and University career fields. Having a great success with this year’s senior of Cincinnati before choosing Shawnee. Swallows spoke class shows the beneficial experience that SSU’s new about why she decided on SSU over the Universities. musical theatre program has to offer. This recent program “I liked that it was a brand new program. When I first met is more selective than the theatre minor, or other fine arts John and the others they were all very welcoming, and I degrees being offered. Instead of traditionally enrolling into could tell it was a good experience. The other schools didn’t a major, there is a requirement to audition, followed by an have that feeling,” Swallows said. acceptance offer into the program if the student is chosen. Finding a potential job that’s available in your career Auditions for the program are held in the spring with their field can be difficult; finding a job specific to your major information available online. This year brings the first can be even more challenging within our current world. graduating class from the selective SSU musical theatre “To find jobs in your field, you have to put yourself out program there, and apply online,” Swallows said. John Huston leads the musical theatre program, and Carpathios, Metz, and Swallows share pieces of expertise oversees the students that are involved with the theatre and that they felt to be important from the musical theatre with performing arts. Although this is the program’s first class, SSU students, and aspiring musical theatre majors. the seniors developed enough career experience to each “Work as hard as you can.Always search for opportunities obtain a working position within their specific career area on your own time, and your mistakes can be your best after graduation. teacher, be humble and passionate about what you do,” “It’s very satisfying and bittersweet. You’re sad to see Carpathios said. people go, but excited to see where they go,” Huston “You have to have a good work ethic. If you can see described his experience seeing first musical theatre class yourself doing something other than this, then do it,” Metz preparing to graduate. Huston names some qualities that said. make SSU’s Musical Theatre program stand out among “Just jump in without any fears, or anything that will draw other universities. you back. If you like it, you’ll stick around, or you’ll find “Students graduate from the [theatre] program with 16 somethingelse.Thereareplentyofthingstotry,”Swallows said. shows under their belt. With some programs, freshmen The department of arts expresses an importance to take aren’t allowed to be on stage because they can’t work on advantage of opportunities whenever they’re possible. stage, or the set. That is not a problem here,” Huston said. Students with interest in the musical theatre program, or Huston also spoke about the goals of the musical theatre have any questions related to fine arts at SSU, can stop by program, “[To] educate the best possible opportunities John Huston’s office, room 314 in the Vern Riffe center. to prepare students for their careers. Taking the second group to New York for our Broadway Experience trip. And Jonnie Carpathios in Promises Promises Natalee Swallows in Of Thee I Sydney Metz with Jordan Stinson in Promises Promises. offer more opportunities,” Huston said. Following these Sing. goals, Huston explained the primary motivation behind them,“Lots of people in state don’t know what SSU is; we have to get that word out, and get more visibility.” Huston’s graduating seniors include: Jonnie Carpathios, Sydney Metz, and Natalee Swallows. Carpathios’ first career step after graduation is a job performing at the Barn Theatre in Michigan. Metz currently has one internship in New York City, and plans to do auditions for both vocal theatre and projects. Swallows is weighing her opportunities between Turks and Caicos, working in San Diageo, and a couple performing jobs. Carpathios was drawn to SSU by his father, then introduced to Huston after deciding to pursue theatre. Carpathios discussed his passion toward theatre, l[The program] doesn’t feel so new because I could tell here, there is a passionate group performing theatre. This is a career, my major is what I’m doing. It’s a very serious thing that we will pursue and make a career out of.” SSU’s interest in student art overall, and musical theatre recently becoming a major, the experience and techniques that Metz takes away from the program are more effective 19

The Women’s and Gender Equity Center: an update PAIGE NEWMAN, ASSISTANT EDITOR Most recently the center has been led by Zac Nance, students. Shawnee’s Counselor-in-Residence. While Nance already Hartman asks students and faculty to get involved if they Once just the Women’s Center, the name was altered holds a full-time position on campus, he has been filling the are passionate about the center. “The students that are in the to encompass a larger base of students as Shawnee’s void in the center to ensure its longevity. center want to be in the center. So if faculty, administrators, demographics shifted. Though titles and services have “Zac is one of those people students really trust,” students, whoever it is, want to volunteer, we want those changed, the core of the center has held steady. The center explains Tiffany Hartman, Director of Student Life. Nance volunteers,” she asserts. remains a safe space for Shawnee students. has been invaluable to the center as he has allowed it to If the center has been a safe space for you and you The center’s budget has decreased through the years remain open and functioning while there was no one to act appreciate its services, let the University know. Stop by and changes have been made to the center to reflect. as coordinator. Student Affairs if you have ideas for how the center can Two years ago the decision was made to close the center “We need people to take on more than just what their better serve students. You can also stop by The Women’s unless another department could absorb it. At that time, original assignment was,” explains Hartman. By assisting and Gender Equity Center if you’re interested in serving rather than see the center close, Student Affairs made the in areas of the University that need help, services are able and volunteering. As a center for students, it is important decision to take over the center and continue to serve the to continue in spite of budget cuts. Changes in funding that students take ownership of it and help serve. students of Shawnee. This change gave the center another have allowed for the center to get creative and think of new, chance, but it created the restraint of trying to provide the innovative ways to raise money and provide services to same services, programming and coordinator salary with a reduced budget. The decision was made to transition to a part-time coordinator to accommodate the new funding. The Women’s and Gender Equity Center HAILEY HINCH, CIRCULATION backgrounds that relate to gender and sexuality, in which their rights, safety and representation The 2016 Fall semester saw Christina Jones are at risk. as director of Shawnee State’s LGBTQIA Safe spaces have been a hot button issue safe space and Women’s Center dedicated to following the 2016 elections with many providing a supportive and safe environment community leaders dismissing their importance and many services for women and LGBTQIA even though SSU’s Gender Equity Center safe of the Shawnee State University’s community. space saw over 150 students within one day Jones acquired the position as of Aug. 1 to seek help the day following the election. after turbulence regarding the filling of the Some Shawnee students have not found it leadership position of the center over previous reassuring to find that the place designated years. There have been shifts in the director of for their wellbeing is consistently shifting in the center continuously over the past couple leadership especially with the current political years. climates, as expressed by one female SSU For the new semester of Spring 2017, the student who stated, “That there is already an Women’s and Gender Equity Center’s director attack on safe spaces throughout the country position was filled by Zac Nance, a counselor in and these issues with the Women’s Center feels residence of Shawnee State’s health counselling like an extension.” Concerns like these were services. Nance came to the position of director able to be voiced and heard back in March of the center when Jones moved into a position within the center’s location of Massie 019 as within the Career Development office as a an open opportunity. Mar. 30 and Mar. 31, SSU career advisor. student were able to express fears, concerns The home page for the Women’s and Gender and suggestions as organized and headed by Equity Center states that Zac Nance is simply Marcie Simms, Dean of Students. an Acting Director of the center. It is expected for him to exit the acting director position of the safe space at the end of the Spring 2017 semester. Concerns of consistency and shifting management of the Gender Equity Center and safe space have been raised by numerous students of Shawnee State. Many students rely on the center as a resource of support, safety, and services customized for students of 20

Sigma Tau Delta 2017 International Convention MIKHAIL R. SMITH, EDITOR Editor Mikhail Smith presenting at conference. Photo by Brew Wilson-Battles. This year, I was honored to present at the 2017 Sigma Tau Delta Convention. I received notification in the early parts of December that my nonfiction essay had been accepted for presentation. I’m thankful that we have such wonderful advisors who immediately started preparing. Christina Baker Jones and Brew Wilson-Battles not only made preparations easy, but made the trip a wonderful experience as well. I also want to thank Adrienne Carver for making the trip with us and supporting me the entire time. I want to extend another quick thank you to Dr. Roberta Milliken, Dr. Jennifer Pauley, and to Elsie Shabazz for all of their help as well. Presenting at a convention like this was an experience in itself, even though my presentation was only around twelve minutes. I was rather anxious for a good part of the trip, as we left on Wednesday and my presentation wasn’t until 8 a.m. on Saturday. There were many different career- building workshops on Thursday morning before student presentations started. The student presentations were focused on a range of topics (I heard many ranging from Harry Potter to Shakespeare) and under a range of genres. There were academic papers, poetry, fiction, and nonfiction. So many sessions to choose from, but only so much time in the day. Everyone I met there was super supportive and encouraging of all the presentations. Though I didn’t win an award for my piece, I got three books signed, made new friends who were also presenting, and had a blast with the wonderful people who made this possible. Thank you Christina, Brew, and Adrienne for making this trip so special. Shawnee Sigma Tau Delta sisters at conference. Christina Baker-Jones, Adrienne Carver, Mikhail Smith, Brew Wilson- Sisters of Delta Phi Epsilon taking donations for children Battles. Photo sumbitted by Christina Baker-Jones. with eating disorders. Photo by Felicia Stonerock. 21 Delta Phi Epsilon fundraises for eating disorders

Tappa Kau Epsilon puts on car Students and faculty enjoy free lunch at Celebration of Scholarship. Photo by Felicia Stonerock. smash for St. Jude’s charity DECK FORNELL, STAFF REPORTER Shawnee State University’s chapter of Tau Kappa Epsilon organized a car smash as a philanthropy fundraising event for Saint Jude Children’s hospital. Within two days, TKE raised over $400 in donations for St. Jude, with a total of 120 students and faculty channeling their frustrations toward cancer. TKE had zero startup cost, and spent about 12 hours overall, including set up, operation, and cleaning for both days. This makes the event more effective, and efficient by illustrating what combining creative thinking with initiative can accomplish. The event and its success had assistance from our SSU Department of Public Safety, SSU Communications Department, and SSU student organization advisors. After the car smash members of TKE remark the success, and overall turn out of this event in comparison to previous events in the past. Jesse Scott gave his outlook toward the overall success of the car smash. “In my three years at SSU, I have not seen very many events that generates as much interest, and overall turnout between students and faculty as the car smash did. It was great to see campus lively, and to see students, become involved in something greater than themselves,” Scott said. SSU’s TKE chapter has raised over $1,000 for St. Jude this year, alongside 1,300 community service hours total between the 17 members of the active chapter. If you have any interest in Greek life, talk to any member of either fraternity, or either sorority. Any of the members will be glad to answer any questions that you or someone else may have about Greek life. TKE raised money to donate to St. Judes Children Hospital. Photo gathered by Jessica Leesburg. The result of day 1 of the car smash. Photo gathered by Jessica Leesburg. 22

Colin Kaepernick’s Courage Commentary REGGIE THOMAS, STAFF REPORTER country to this day and is found constantly in the news. trial of two men who were stabbed to death in 2000. “Big Ben” This still does not answer the question, “Why the national Roethlisberger, quarterback for the Pittsburg Steelers, has been We spend our lives growing up in America being taught the anthem?” Why is that he chose to not show respect to accused of sexual assault twice and is still playing in the NFL as that our citizenship guarantees that we have rights. The the song of our countrymen, the song of our armed forces? we speak. Another case is the infamous Ray Rice and the assault United States Constitution is our written agreement that Maybe there are more riddles written in the national charges he faced with his wife. supports that statement. The right of freedom of speech is one anthem than the average American knows. We celebrate The NFL is a multibillion dollar organization and has a of these amendments that tends to become circumstantial. our freedom with the phrase, “Land of the free and Home reputation to keep with the public, but what kind of message are The issue on Colin Kaepernick and his kneeling during the of the Brave.” However much of the original version of the they sending when they can allow accused rapists and convicted playing of the national anthem is always thrown back and Star Bangled Banner was taken out. The phrase “No refuge wife beaters a chance to continue playing, but cut a player who forth in the news. It is a very controversial issue, and the could save the hireling and slave. From the terror of flight speaks the truth? Americans have the freedom of speech, but opposing sides seem to never come to any middle ground. or the gloom of the grave,” raises a few eyebrows. Many those in power are the ones that are listened to the most. What One side sees it as a professional athlete who feels that argue about whether or not it is referring to defeating the good does it do for these people who have the microphone to he is better than everyone else and is above his fellow British or to the slaves that joined the British for freedom. speak up against corruption if they are only to be scrutinized and countrymen. This side feels he is not showing respect for Either way it creates great controversy. punished? It took a lot of bravery and courage for Kaepernick the men and women who have died for our country so that The more interesting point is the fact that Kaepernick has to do what he did and to except the consequences. It also took we can continue to have the rights that we were promised received so much negative attention from so many people. courageous people like Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, when the Bill of rights was ratified. The other side sees a It is just interesting that the NFL can condone so many Malcolm X, etc. to stand up for the Civil Rights Movement man of minority race expressing his rights, and peacefully more heinous crimes committed by players and give them in the 60’s. Those people created change through action, and standing up against the social problems that are still taking second chances to thrive in the league without so much hate. Kaepernick is trying to do the same. Hopefully he will help precedent in the United States today. NFL legend Ray Lewis was linebacker for the Baltimore initiate change to end the police brutality that still haunts Many people do not understand what Kaepernick is Ravens for 17 years and was given a second chance. He had America. trying to accomplish by kneeling during the Star-Spangled pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice during the murder Banner before games. He has said that it is to stand against the police brutality against minorities that still haunts our International students visit the U.S. through Shawnee State SEAN STEWART, GRAPHICS EDITOR about the future of the world’s people about how the university can better the and their standing. experiences of international students With some hailing from SSU’s sister “I want to promote my culture through further inclusion efforts, like universities in other countries like Spain, more here and remove different excursion trips to places in the region. China, Germany and others, the Shawnee stereotypes about my country,” Through meeting and spending time State student body is more exposed to the Zeeshan says. He will continue his with students from other countries, I diversity of the world’s peoples and the medical research within the United was able to see a newer view. Through differences as well as the similarities they States, as he plans to live here and talks of our hopes and desires in life, carry, which all helps to build relations practice his profession in medicine. a shine of similarity emerged. In many between cultures and nations. Both Zeeshan and Saqib have ways, although from other nations, From the nation of Pakistan are two presented a cultural presentation international students are not all too students, Zeeshan Ahmad and Saqib on their home country of Pakistan different culturally. They are like the Chohan, who also goes by “Muhamad”, as well, dispersing stereotypes and average American college student. They that I have had the pleasure of both meeting spreading true information about party, they want to travel across the and befriending. Zeeshan studies medicine where they come from. They did this with the support nation, they long to drive, and they like whereas Saqib is studying Marketing and of Shawnee State club International Forum, where many movies. They Skype and Facebook their friends. They do Finance. Both have become known across campus and well of the international students go to meet others and learn what we do. They complain of the cold, and grill when the spirited at making friends and allies here at Shawnee State about each other and to do fun activities like cultural sun comes. through clubs and social connections. presentations, cookouts and fieldtrips. A student that also The world carries difference, but those differences should “First, I was thinking how I will adjust [here], how the attends International Forum is Diana Moreno, a student never define us. It is the similarity and real knowledge that Shawnee students would treat me” Zeeshan said, “Within a studying at Shawnee from Columbia. will drive true understanding and innovation. It is the creed short period of time, I made a lot of friends and I feel like I “Shawnee State University must study the needs of its that built the very idea of what the United States is. That am in my own country with my own people.” international students because is a way to recognize us all peoples, although differing in culture and surface, can Very passionate about the cultural atmosphere of as important community,” Diana says, who will study and should strive together for something greater. Towards Shawnee, Saqib especially cares for breaking down barriers here at Shawnee State University for a degree Education the betterment of all of mankind and his children. That and uplifting the world into a better understanding of itself. for a full four years. She hopes to better herself and the knowledge of the people, knowledge of the arts and the Participating in events such as a political protest on SSU’s relations among people through sharing her experiences of sciences, the mathematics and the knowledge of the written campus against some of the U.S. president’s actions, as well living within Columbia and United States. She is adamant word can all benefit, together, the qualities of the world. as conducting social tests experiments to assess the cultural sentiment of campus, Saqib has proven he is legitimate 23

Shawnee State creates The UNC basketball tradition bowling team REGGIE THOMAS, STAFF REPORTER in a row. Legendary head coach Dean Smith REGGIE THOMAS, STAFF REPORTER the Mid-South Conference, and will coached the Tar Heels from 1961 to 1997. He also compete in many tournaments Another year of March Madness has passed, has won two of those championships, one in Shawnee has many athletic teams in West Virginia, Kentucky and and the North Carolina Tar Heels men’s 1982 while coaching a young Michael Jordan, ranging from basketball, soccer, and Tennessee. While this is the first year basketball team have come out on top against the and the other in 1993. The current coach, Roy tennis to baseball, etc. Shawnee has of Shawnee State competing in the Gonzaga Bulldogs. It came down to the wire in Williams, became the Head coach in 2003 and started a bowling team and is seeking sport of bowling, it promises to be the National Championship Game, with North has since kept the tradition going with three members to participate. Many were a memorable one. Sturgell’s main Carolina ousting Gonzaga 71 to 65. While they Championships taking place in 2005, 2009, and surprised to hear that news. The idea goal for his players “is to have fun, celebrate this year as the national champions, 2017. originated from Athletic Director Jeff develop friendships and compete.” last year they were not as fortunate. They made UNC has been a NCAA Basketball Power Hamilton and President Rick Kurtz, Make sure to show support to it to the championship game the previous year, hosuse, along with the universities of Duke, and was put into action this year. your newest members of Shawnee but the Villanova Wild Cats trumped the Tar Kentucky, Kansasa, UCLA, Syracuse etc. It is Bryan Sturgell was named the head State athletics next winter and wish Heels 77 to 74. It was a walk-off game winning out of there schools most pick to win the national coach of both the men’s and women’s the bowling team a successful first by three from Gonzaga forward Kris Jenkins. tourament every year. North Carolina has taken teams. He is looking to have 15 season! Led by head coach Roy Williams, the Tar Heels it this year and have good chance to win it again players on each team by the time the were able to use last year’s disappointment as next year. Kentutcky and Duke may have been season starts. The practices will begin motivation to help them achieve their goal and the top candidates in the recent years, UNC in August, and the current players will stand on top of the mountain as champions. has the best history and has had the best NBA have to practice all year round. The North Carolina men’s basketball team player of all time Michael Jordan. I believe Tar There are plans to have a bowling has always been known for their winning Heels may be the best mens basketball program alley constructed on campus for the tradition. They have appeared in the National of all time. team to practice. Until the building Championship games 11 times and have of the alley, the team will practice at won seven of them. They are the only men’s Sunset Lanes on 2330 17th St. The college basketball program in history to win SSU bowling team will compete in at least one championship for four decades HEY BEARS! Looking for a safe, easy, & affordable way to travel to & from SSU? GoBus & Access Scioto County Transit Portsmouth GoBus has 42 stop have teamed up to do just that! locations across Ohio Find out more by calling Cincinnati 114 Miles GoBus tickets start at 740-353-5626, ext 203 just $5 one-way* Athens 85 Miles Columbus 95 Miles The Scioto Connector is only $3 one-way! *Plus tax & fees GoBus: RideGoBus.com 888.95.GoBus / Access Scioto: asctransit.com 740.353.5626 24