The Story Of Tim Mousseau »Page 2
New Royalty On Campus »Page 6
VOLUMe 11 | ISSUe 16
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TUeSDaY | aPRIL 26 | 2016
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Kean Dance Marathon Focuses On Child Of Kean alumni Couple
Students danced until they dropped to raise money for The Children’s Specialized Hospital of New Jersey Gabby Vicedomini & Kelsey Moran
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Staff Writers
hen two students fell in love on Kean University soil, they would have never imagined the circumstances that would reunite them with the campus years later. When Amy Boright and Jared Siperstein’s son Jude was diagnosed with meningomyelitis, everything changed. But the support they received from The Children’s Specialized Hospital in Mountainside helped them through the times of turmoil. “We’ve helped him learn to walk, talk, and get back on track,” said Colette Forcier, Assistant Director of The Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. “He is truly a champion.” With this information in hand, Kean University stepped up to the plate of responsibility. This year’s Kean Dance Marathon, also known as KDM, decided to dance with a cause, that cause being Jude Siperstein. Not only is Jude 2016’s New Jersey Miracle Network Hospitals’ Representative and Ambassador, but he is also considered “The Mayor of Children’s Specialized Hospital.”
Ojilvis Nunez | The Cougar's Byte
Kean students surpassed their goal by raising $38,014.24 for the Children Specialized Hospital Jude’s condition of meningomyelitis, an inflamed spinal cord, which began with something as simple as an ear infection, did not only threaten his ability to function regularly day-to-day but his life in its entirety. An aggressive round of steroids successfully stopped the swelling and made Jude stable, but he could still not lift his head. When he had first arrived at Children’s Specialized Hospital, a full recovery was not guaranteed. Over the next 12 weeks due to
physical, occupational and recreational therapies, he began to take his “first” steps. “Jude’s progress has been a miracle,” said Boright. The Kean community has spent the greater part of the last year trying to reach its goal of $30,000. Through fundraising and promotion, Kean University has been planning precisely for the big day of Friday,
April 15, 2016. Downs Hall became flooded with eager students starting at noon, some sporting Greek letters across their chests, some representing Kean University, but there was as overwhelming amount of KDM t-shirts, exemplifying the spirit of charity and community across all of Kean University.
SEE "MARATHON" ON PAGE 8
Society a Look Back greeks in Competition Greek Orgs at Kean University participates in annual Prepares On a Week Greek Olympics Students For Of action Residential Student actuarial Services (RSS) is putting an F end to domestic violence Career and sexual assault Aliyah Price-Perry Staff Writer
raternities and sororities can offer a rich and rewarding experience for those who choose to affiliate. The most well-known aspect of Greek life is that of brotherhood or sisterhood, however being Greek entails much more than just being a brother or sister.
A society on campus takes initiative with a career typically overlooked
Gabby Vicedomini | The Cougar's Byte
Shirts made by Kean students to bring awareness on sexual assault
Gabby Vicedomini Gabby Vicedomini | The Cougar’s Byte
aSK executive board with advisor Professor Woubneh
Amanda Petty
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Editor
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his year’s Week of Action was filled with events, speakers and activities in support of the national “It’s On Us” campaign spanning from Monday, April 11, 2016 to Friday, April 15, 2016.
f a student is looking to become an actuary, or simply wants to learn about actuarial science, there is now an organization available for students to join on campus. At the start of this semester, the Actuarial Society of Kean (ASK) was formed. The official date ASK was established on was Tuesday, February 9, 2016, but the society was underway to becoming a student organization a few weeks prior its recognition.
According to itsonus.org, the pledge is a personal commitment to help keep women and men safe from sexual assault; a promise not to be a bystander to the problem, but to be a part of the solution.
SEE "ASK" ON PAGE 7
SEE "ACTION" ON PAGE 3
“The campaign is about helping students feel empowered to make a difference in their campus community. It is about standing up against domestic violence and sexual assault and telling the world
Greek life provides a spectrum of opportunities for meaningful individual involvement and growth. In the last week of March, Kean University saw just that as Greeks geared up for the Greek Olympics. The Greek Olympics are/is a week of fun-filled activities featuring the numerous Greek organizations on campus. They take part in these festivities as their peers, classmates and friends get a chance to see what they're all about. For Kean University, it creates an atmosphere of liveliness and campus involvement. The Greek Olympics is a much anticipated event. It is a time where, for one week, various Greek letter organizations come together to compete in several athletic and non-athletic events. Greek Olympics is an annual event held during the spring semester. It is almost always held in the month of March, towards the end. This year, March 21, 2016, marked the beginning of the fun filled week. The first day began with Kickball at 6 p.m. followed by dodge ball 8 p.m., getting the week off to an exciting and invigorating start. The week features a range games and goofy events wherein each Greek letter organization competes against another. These are typically games that are all simple, easy and all-inclusive. It includes games such as kickball, dodgeball, basketball, volleyball, Greek sing, ping pong, tug of war, soccer, and relay races. The Greek Olympics have gotten consistently better and better year after year. Always incorporating new and interesting games, and sometimes old and
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cherished ones, the Greeks always make the most of the week. It is a beloved time for most Greeks because they get to participate in fun games with peer/other Greek letter organizations that they might otherwise never interact with. Additionally, it allows healthy competition among the sororities and fraternities. During the games, many of them stand on the sides cheer on their fellow Greeks and keep their spirits high should they incur a loss. Alex Louis, managing assistant director of Center for Leadership and Service (CLS) states, “[Greeks] are, for those two weeks, in a very competitive mode to see who will ultimately win the competition.” The entire week of Greek Olympics is one of support, togetherness and fun. Greek Olympics is a crucial part of the year for numerous reasons. For one thing, it allows the many Greek organizations at Kean University show unity but at the same time represent their individual organization. Louis states, “Greek Olympics is an opportunity for Kean to see how unified the Greeks are on campus by doing these games and activities.”
SEE "COMPETITION" ON PAGE 5
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Tuesday | April 26 | 2016
An Exchange Student From Across The Ocean Xunlan Wang, being a pioneer all over the world Jiaqi Ni
Kean University
Center for Leadership and Service
Miron Student Center, room 215 1000 Morris Avenue • Union, NJ 07083 P: 908-737-5179 • F: 908-737-5175 cbyte@kean.edu • www.cougarsbyte.com The Cougar’s Byte is a leadership and service newsletter where you will find up-to-theminute information on all things related to student life at Kean University. A student news publication that features University events and student activities and accomplishments, The Cougar’s Byte strengthens the overall experience of students by immersing them in the complete college culture. By increasing awareness of all aspects of campus life, students can utilize everything Kean has to offer, while networking and paving the path for their academic and social development. Published every other Tuesday during the regular academic year, The Cougar’s Byte can viewed both online, at www.cougarsbyte.com, and in print, distributed biweekly to over fifteen campus locations on the Union and Ocean campuses of Kean University. The Cougar’s Byte welcomes Letters to the Editor, calendar events, event news and information, articles, story ideas, artwork and digital photo submission. To learn more about our publishing policy visit www.cougarsbyte.com.
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unlan Wang, a junior majoring in accounting, was the President of Wenzhou-Kean University Toastmasters Club, and is the mentor in Wenzhou-Kean University Students Association WKUSA. She works hard both in academic and university organizations while demonstrating the pioneer spirit of a student of the second generation of Wenzhou-Kean University. Wang has been to Kean University through the Immersion Program in summer 2014, and it was her first time to America that year. At the time, she was a little bit nervous and did not know what she should do but still looked forward to the upcoming campus life in this new land. As time went by, she overcame all these nervous feelings and quickly started in on her academic responsibilities and enjoying life here. “I found out I love the environment and the study atmosphere here, so I decided to come here again as an exchange student here in this semester,” she said. When she was at Wenzhou-Kean University, she established the Toastmasters Club with the mission of improving people’s public speaking skills and leadership. For herself, this club not only improved her English speaking skills but also enhanced the ability of leadership. It was a really important
Ojilvis Nunez
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Creative Media Manager cheblyd@kean.edu
Gaelle Gilles
Photo courtesy of Luie Amador
Lewis Milrod, MD presenting on pediatric neurology at Kean University’s 2nd Annual Biological and Health Sciences Career Conference
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Jiaqi Ni
Aliyah Price-Perry Staff Writer pricepea@kean.edu
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Graduate Assistant
Scott K. Snowden Jr.
Director, Center for Leadership and Service
experience for Wang to meet talented and excellent people from different areas in China, resulting in the improvement of communication skills. Except the hobby of public speaking, she loves playing the piano and singing. She always did some performances at different activities when she was the member of Wenzhou-Kean University Music Club. Once she came to Kean University, she joined the choir, the symphony orchestra and takes private piano lessons in order to professionally learn music so she will gain different understanding for both singing
Wang finds life in America very different, especially food and nobody will tell her what she should or should not do. Wang stated, “It is [a] benefit for me to be more independent, and learn more life skills. I hope I can learn more, and improve myself here in the future. Everything here makes me feel more freedom, and make me have the enthusiastic to learn more and meet more friends.” When it comes to the future career plan, Wang wants to work at a bank. Wang is a mentor in WKUSA, which means she helps connecting both Wenzhou-Kean University and Kean University communities to share different culture, background and thoughts. Not only for the university itself but for every student involved, it is on the right path for international engagement.
Jiaqi Ni, senior finance major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
The Story Of Tim Mousseau
Spreading the word of sexual violence
Students were able to gain exposure to their fields of interest outside of the traditional classroom or lecture hall setting. This allowed students greater insight on practical applications for their degrees. Tracy Heng, junior chemistry and biology double major, plans to be a physician assistant. She explains how the conference helped her.
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Xunlang Wang playing the piano
and walking examples of success. Because college can be unspeakably challenging at times, it is critical that students have exposure to successful professionals, and reminders that it is possible to reach their academic and professional goals.
Editor pettyam@kean.edu
Staff Writer morakels@kean.edu
Photo courtesy of Xunlang Wang
The Biology Club helped students find their dream
Amanda Petty
Kelsey Moran
In academic area, Wang keeps a good GPA and works hard in her major. She thought through the academics she can acquire here will accumulate knowledge to help her think both professionally and critically. Wang finds it is really interesting to study with the students at Kean University and discuss with them class contents.
Getting The Chance To Succeed In A Science Field
Senior Editor kitchero@kean.edu
Staff Writer gillesga@kean.edu
and piano. The different culture creates a different environment, and Wang believes that the unique experience of American life will help her gain more potential possibilities of future life.
Staff Writer
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Staff Writer
onferences, as a medium of networking and epicenter of information, are tremendously valuable. They offer a collective space where professionals can share their wisdom with students in pursuit of similar goals and dreams. On Saturday, April 2, 2016, Kean University’s Biology Club hosted its 2nd Annual Biological and Health Sciences Career Conference in the Miron Student Center. Over 150 students attended the event for a chance to meet and learn from practicing professionals in biological and health sciences. The conference featured over thirty professionals including medical doctors, physician assistants, nurses, biological scientists, and university professors. Each conducted a 30-minute informational session for students. Sessions ran from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and each student had an opportunity to tailor the day to his or her career interests. The conference also featured popular exam-prep organization The Princeton Review, which held Graduate Record Exam (GRE) and Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) workshops for students interested in higher education. The panel of professionals spoke about everything from personal experience in their respective fields to collegiate advice and internship and job opportunities available. For many of them, the process of continuing education posed challenges and difficulties. Dr. Amy Sprinkle, plant and soil scientist stated, “Most people think success is a straight line, but it’s not. Many speakers offered similar words of wisdom and encouragement to students. The conference allowed students to meet with professionals who have succeeded, could share firsthand experiences, answer important questions, and give them valuable tips. Perhaps most importantly, the conference provided students with inspiration
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“I spoke to one of the doctors from St. George University and she told me a lot about scholarships, and her personal experiences. It was definitely motivational” Heng states. “It reminded me of my goal.” The conference also created a platform for dialogue about important topics. Students were able to gain new knowledge and learn vicariously from the discussions that took place within the informational sessions. Ester Adler, senior biology major and future physical therapy graduate student of Columbia University explains:
Gaelle Gilles | The Cougar’s Byte
Tim Mousseau speaks about sexual violence to students
"It’s just about learning new things, and being open to learning new things.” Kean University’s Biology Club executive board had similar thoughts in the organization and implementation of this conference, teaming up with Faculty Advisor Kerrylynn Konecny to host the event for the 2nd year in a row. The non-funded student group saw the impact the conference had on students the year prior and went above and beyond to make the same impact this year. They ventured to connect with and invite a number of medical schools, healthrelated organizations, and a wide variety of biological and health science professionals, many of whom came from out-of-state to speak to students. Biology Club Treasurer, Mariam Ishak networked with local companies and organizational leaders within Kean University to obtain much of the funding that made the event possible. They executive board agrees that the outcome was well worth the hard work, and that with each year comes new experiences and opportunities for learning. A reoccurring theme this year was that success truly is non-linear, that it comes through various life and educational experiences; a lesson that any student can benefit from. The Biology Club’s mission is to help students gain educational, environmental, and social awareness through community service, and on-campus and offcampus activities. It sponsors and organizes events like the career conference, which expose students to various educational resources, and invaluable information for success in college and beyond. The club can be a great resource for any Kean University student. To get connected, find them on Cougar Link.
Aliyah Price-Perry, Senior Sociology and Psychology major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
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Gaelle Gilles
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Staff Writer
ne of the hardest topics to speak about is sexual violence, especially if one is a victim. But it is time that someone finally gets the nerve to speak about it. That is exactly what Tim Mousseau did when he came to Kean University on Tuesday, April 12, 2016. He spoke to a room filled with students in the Little Theatre. He begins his hour long presentation on the question, “What is the most awkward date you have ever been on?” More than half the students there raised their hands and some shared their experiences. Then Mousseau shared his awkward date. While on a coffee date with someone, he comments that "the reason why we connected so well is because both of us are writers...” his date asked him if she can see the articles he has written online, and so he let her. After looking through some of his articles, his date stumbled on one and stops. “She looks up at me and she gives me this look that I know. It’s a look of shame and it’s a look of fear. And it’s a look of pity…and it’s a look I get from college audiences across the country. The reason for her look is because she came upon this: ‘to the person who sexually assaulted me, I forgive you.’” Not a single word from the audience, exactly what he was expecting after he said those words. Mosseau then speaks on his experience. He starts from the beginning and how he didn’t know that he was sexually assaulted. He was working at a college at the time while getting a master’s degree.
SEE "MOUSSEAU" ON PAGE 6
TUeSDaY | aPRIL 26 | 2016
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action (continued from page 1) that you do not tolerate abuse in any form,” said Kristin Bennet, Coordinator of Educational Services for RSS. The week kicked off with the “Clothesline Project” on the Dougall Patio from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. At this event, students were encouraged to decorate a t-shirt to be hung on a clothesline with messages of dedication and support to those affected by domestic violence and sexual assault. The shirts have been hung on display in the New Upper Residence Hall (NURH) cafeteria. Shirts of all different colors and designs with mottos such as “Speak Up!” and “You’re Not Alone!” serve as a reminder in a student hot spot on campus to all that this cause is crucial. Parallel to the kickoff, RSS arranged a unique scavenger hunt for students at 3:30 p.m.: a search for resources available on campus for those who might be victims of these heinous actions. This included the Office of Health Services, The Counseling Center and Police Station, which are all located in Downs Hall, among other safe spaces on campus. On Tuesday, April 12, 2016, the Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs Task Force (AToD) presented a panel with speaker and sexual assault survivor Tim Mousseau. Throughout the conversation, Mousseau spoke of his experience: one day he got a letter in the mail, enclosed were photos of him being sexually assaulted. Unbeknownst to him, he had been drugged and attacked and these realizations lead to anger, depression and alcoholism. Speaking to a crowd a students in the Little Theatre, he is determined to change the perspective on sexual assault and abuse. “Our society framed the conversation on sexual assault… that if you are sexually assaulted that you should be ashamed of that or you shouldn’t talk about it,” Mosseau. Later that night at 8:30 p.m., the NURH screening room held a discussion panel about gender. The LGBTQ community has faced many adversities in recent years with transgendered individuals coming forth and the topic of gender as a social construct has become a prominent debate among young adults. Even Mosseau himself spoke out about sexual assault within the transgendered community during his discussion; citing that 64 percent of those who identify as transgender will experience some form of sexual violence.
The next day, Wednesday, April 13, 2016, had a more relaxed agenda in comparison to the other intense events that took place prior. At 5 p.m. in Whiteman Hall Lounge, students gathered to analyze conflicts in relationships and learn how to deal with these issues. Following that at 9:30 p.m. in the Sozio Hall Community Center, Resident Hall Director (RHD) Tarie Taylor and her Resident Advisor (RA) staff held cooking lessons where they did not only learn how to cook but also learn how to identify the signs and dangers of domestic abuse. “The events that we hold throughout the week serve to educate students about the signs and dangerous impact of sexual assault so that students can protect themselves and those around them,” said Bennet. Thursday, April 14, 2016 presented fun activities such as tie-dying t-shirts and karaoke. “The Tie-Dye Effect of Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence” was used to represent the wide range of emotions experienced by victims of sexual assault and domestic violence. This program informed those present of the resources available to them or those close. Karaoke For A Cause was held from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the NURH screening room. This event also shared statistics about sexual abuse and ways to recognize these situations to prevent them from happening at Kean University. Black Eyes and Denim Day gave the community the opportunity to sport denim and their t-shirts on Friday, April 15, 2016 that they had previously created throughout the week. Men’s Group members also sported black eyes to help spread awareness of sexual assault and its impact on the male community. “By keeping the dialogue open, we can continue to reach students and help them understand their role in protecting our campus from the issues of sexual assault and domestic violence,” said Bennet. For more ways to get involved, visit www.itsonus.org or reach out to RSS with questions on how to get involved in their next Week of Action.
Gabby Vicedomini, senior English and communication studies double major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
Celebrate african Heritage and graduation Together
African Heritage Graduation Ceremony is on Saturday, April 30, 2016
The African Heritage Graduation Ceremony is meant to incorporate a culture’s practices into the ceremony. During the ceremony, graduates and guests can expect African drummers and dancers and a performance by Kean Gospel Choir. The keynote speaker for the ceremony is Utrice Leid, a journalist and civil rights activist.
Photo courtesy of The Cougar's Byte
Celebrate african heritage and graduation at once
Amanda Petty
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Editor
person’s college graduation is meant to be a significant time in his or her life, possibly the accomplish he or she will regard higher than all other accomplishments. But for some individuals, graduation takes on a more profound celebration. On Saturday, April 30, 2016, the 2016 African Heritage Graduation Ceremony will take place in Wilkens Theatre. The ceremony is expected to begin promptly at 3:30 p.m. This year marks the 30th anniversary Kean University has hosted the event. It will feature soon-to-be alumni from all levels of higher education, ranging from undergraduates, graduates and doctorates.
“We are so excited for this year's celebration,” said Lisia Aikens, Administration Assistant of Office of Africana Studies. “We sponsor this event to first honor our ancestors who have paved the way for us to attend college and to obtain a degree.” Guests will not need tickets to enter the ceremony. All are welcome to witness a nod to African heritage while celebrating the accomplishments of the graduates of 2016. Graduates are encouraged to purchase the Graduate Packet, which consists on a Kente stole, a video of the ceremony and a 2016 commemorative journal. If a graduate is interested in taking part in this graduation ceremony, he or she is required to register online at http:// ku.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8jmiGohrLxwu4NT. Registration was to be completed Friday, April 15, 2016.
Incarcerated: The Dark Side Of It A closer look at America’s prison system Aliyah Price-Perry
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Staff Writer
n Friday, April 8, 2016, the Human Rights Institute at Kean University held its ninth annual conference. Entitled Locked up in America: The Business of Incarceration, it was a close examination of critical issues of incarceration. Meant to educate and inform, the conference featured a variety of experts who spoke about their interactions with the justice system and U.S. prison industry. Each expert is in their own way a social justice advocate that works tirelessly toward a better tomorrow. During the conference, they took time to share their insights, experiences and expertise related to the prison system. The statistics surrounding incarceration are staggering. While the U.S. has a mere five percent of the world population, somehow it also has 25 percent of the prison population, making it the highest documented incarceration rate in the world. Sadly, these harsh statistics are thoroughly felt by every part of the population. Chris McNabb, National Religious Campaign Against Torture Student Organizer, stated, “Poverty and race are the two greatest indicators of who will end up in prison.” It is undeniable that the prison system disproportionately impacts certain people, these are typically impoverished minorities. Today, a criminal record serves as both a direct cause and consequence of poverty. The prison system has a way of punishing the poor for being such. Often, a poor man and rich man can commit identical crimes and have drastically different results. Every day there are about 500,000 people in jail who are still presumed innocent and awaiting trial, just because they are too poor to pay bail. Race is also a multiplier of disadvantage when it comes to effects of incarceration. McNabb states, “1 in 3 African American babies born today will go to prison and 1 in 6 Latino boys.” For many, race alone dictates their experiences with the law and prison system. Moreover, for them what begins as ordinary life experiences and mistakes are transformed into defining and tragic moments with irreparable consequences. These statistics are not born inside prison but on the street where it begins. The first step in incarceration starts with interactions between police and people. From the beginning black and poor people are targets. Evidently, they experience more interactions, more charges, more convictions, more cruelty, less consideration, less leniency and less compassion. Incarceration has a way of institutionally perpetuating the discriminatory nature of society that many people work copiously to combat daily. The unequal effects of the prison system have very real ramifications in society. Mass incarceration effectively removes the minority poor from mainstream society. In the most literal sense, prison and jail are correctional facilities in which people are legally held as a punishment for crimes they have committed or while awaiting trial, but in reality it is much more than that. The experience of living and surviving in prison is a unique one that many people cannot truly fathom. It is a world within one and people are irrevocably shaped by the experiences inside.
Any questions or concerns can be addressed to the Office of Africana Studies in Hutchinson Hall room 103.
Moreover, most people who serve time in prison are reintroduced to society with virtually no consideration of what that experience does to someone. There are certain people whose lives are deemed expendable or less than and in an interesting way, the prison system inadvertently reflects the value society places on them.
Amanda Petty, junior English writing and communication double major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
Diannis Borras senior psychology major states, “It raises
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questions about what we as a society accept and justify.” Not all of prison is attributed to systemic problems and racial or class differences. A lot of mass incarceration can be explained in one symbol: $. The world is one driven by the dollar, and prison system is extremely lucrative. The incarceration system has become and exceedingly private industry and in the process, generated multi-billion dollars. There are a select few who profit tremendously from prisons. The three largest “prison profiteers” are: phone scammers like GLT, bail industry and sleazy politicians. Quite frankly, with a recidivism rate of 68 percent, the system is failing to correct or rehabilitate. There are irrefutable structural aspects to the prison system that desperately need attention but separate from those; there are humane aspects prison reform that take precedence. While people work for better conditions in the future, there are still people who in the meantime must endure the conditions that persist today. At the epicenter of the prison reform movement is the push for change in the overuse of solitary confinement. Solitary confinement is a form of imprisonment in which an inmate is isolated from any human contact, with the exception of prison staff. Since 1995, the use of solitary confinement has nearly doubled in 20 years. Research has shown that after 15 days in solitary, permanent psychological trauma occurs. Terrell Blount, former inmate and Program Coordinator states, “Solitary is not limited to emotional and psychological. Physical ailments and illnesses are ignored.” Solitary has been cited as an additional measure of protection for the inmate and the prison community, however most times it fails in this regard. McNabb states, “Many people think solitary confinement makes prison safer, that’s an illusion.” Simply put, solitary is a manifestation of punishment that is inhumane, cruel and counterproductive. To bring greater awareness to the inhumanity of solitary confinement, Kean University hosted a solitary prison cell replica on campus. Individuals were invited to go inside and experience solitary confinement for themselves. It included audio recording from a maximum security prison in Maine and participants could spend up to one hour in the cell. The purpose of the replica was for participants to sit by themselves and think about what it would be like to be imprisoned alone in a cell for hours, days or years. While this replica can never truly reflect the entire experience of being a prisoner in solitary confinement, it is an important experience. There is a degree of desensitization that is pervasive contemporarily and this was a chance to diminish that. Overall, the prison system is plagued by human rights abuses at every level. There are so many cliché ways to say this is wrong, this is inhumane; there are so many statistics supporting the fact that there’s a problem, and yet it remains. There’s something to be said for the way it’s justified treating people as anything but that; the simple fact is criminals are people. They are people first and foremost. And in the words of McNabb, “Each of us is more than the worst thing that we’ve ever done.” Aliyah Price-Perry, Senior Sociology and Psychology major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
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Tuesday | April 26 | 2016
Student Restores The Community: Michael Gonzalez Taking the time to give back through community service Amanda Petty
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trips, he soon discovered which trips he preferred.
Editor
“When doing Habitat you slowly see your progress each time you go,” Gonzalez commented. “The Food Bank is fast paced but amazing because we start thinking and working together. We form an almost conveyer belt when packaging the food or anything at the food bank.”
oing one or two community service trips here and there is manageable. It truly takes a special type of individual to be committed to the improvement of the community on a reoccurring basis. These individuals will have calendars full with nearly all volunteer opportunities. One of those volunteering enthusiasts is freshman biology major Michael Gonzalez. There is a handful of various service trips made available to students, and more times than not Gonzalez is present. When he is not entertaining his time with community service, his time is filled with being involved in the Kean University Rotaract Club, a Leadership Institute Bronze Leader and acts as the Director of Public Relations of the Biology Club. Gonzalez shares what he thinks most volunteers gain from volunteering. Community service is “a good way to use their free time and learn what it means to give back.” The road of community service was paved when Gonzalez started volunteering in eighth grade. His first experience was with his dad working on political campaigns. It was this experience that led to his further involvement in the community. “I became far more involved when I started high school and joined the Perth Amboy High School
While Alternative Spring Break volunteers had an idea of what to expect, Gonzalez walked away with an unforeseen benefit.
“I became more outgoing and I connected more to the university.”
It’s not only the community benefitting from time dedicated to service projects, but a volunteer has the opportunity to gain something as well. For Gonzalez, volunteering affected him socially. Ojilvis Nunez | The Cougar's Byte
Michael volunteering at Habitat for Humanity Navy Junior ROTC [Reserve Officers’ Training Corps],” he stated. “I did a wide array of services from beach and waterfront clean ups, fundraising, parades, etc.” Yes, community service is deemed an important task to carry out, but for Gonzalez to stick to it diligently while his peers are off doing other activities is admirable. “Over the years I grew accustomed to doing volunteer work regularly. I heard that Kean was good with doing community service; I signed up for everything pretty much,” Gonzalez said. With his commitment to the service projects, Gonzalez has attended most. Since he has experience in the various
Students With A Purpose: Edward Adams
A closer look at an exceptional Kean University student
“I became more outgoing and I connected more to the university. I made new friends and [found] something I can do in my spare time.” Spring break is typically a week spent by lounging around, relaxing with family and friends. Gonzalez chose to instead keep his community service reputation going during this week off from college by going to the Atlantic City area through Alternative Spring Break. Alternative Spring Break, hosted by Center for Leadership and Service, is an extended volunteer trip, spanning over the course of four days students participated in various projects, including prepping for foundation, installing sheet rock and painting. “Because I was there at the Alternative Spring Break multiple days, I was able to see the results of my work accumulate more than an average Habitat [for Humanity],” Gonzalez stated. “It was great…we accomplished everything at the end.”
Michael Gonzalez
“I went [with] my other Bio Club [executive board] members Jessica Granberg and Mariam Ishak. At the end of the trip I grew closer to them than I ever thought I would. I would definitely like to do Alternative Spring Break again.” This Kean University student has only been a part of the Kean community for one year, but is proud of all accomplished in that short time. “The transition [from] high school to college was challenging, however, rewarding,” Gonzalez stated. “I accomplished so much in my first year; I can't wait [for] what the future holds and what may happen next.”
Amanda Petty, junior English writing and communication double major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
Embracing The Passion With Kean Dance Theatre Kean University’s resident dance company
on the team, as well as the good amount of talented freshmen also playing for Kean University.
annual showcase every fall and spring semester. But now, KDT is also hosting fundraising events to benefit others.
“I want this to be a new era,” said Adams.
KDT hosted a powderpuff football game in collaboration with the brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. to put together the game for breast cancer awareness.
In addition to being extremely dedicated to Kean University as a college athlete, Adams also plays a large role in the on-campus organization Kean University’s Council for Exceptional Children (KUCEC.) Adams serves the organization as the Vice President as well as the Director of Public Relations.
Photo courtesy of Kean Athletics
Edward Adam men’s lacrosse player and also Kean University’s Council for Exceptional Children Vice President and Director of Public Relations
Kelsey Moran
I
Staff Writer
t is common knowledge that exceptional students venture the Kean University campus, going from class to class; students that apply themselves tirelessly and fiercely, preparing for what lies beyond graduation. Edward Adams, senior, is one of the exceptional students on campus. He is finishing off his undergraduate career with a bang before he graduates this coming winter. Adams is a criminal justice major, and has extremely high ambitions for his career after graduation. But in the meantime, he is making the most of his remaining time at Kean University. Adams is an athlete on Kean University’s Men’s Lacrosse team. The team has been doing extremely well so far this season, and the team has clear objectives as a whole. Adams plays defense as well as the face-off position, and sports the number 10 on his jersey. The lacrosse team has been making quite a big splash this season. The team currently has four wins and two losses, and spent spring break in Texas, playing at Georgetown University. The team came back to Kean University with a record of two wins and one loss. “[The lacrosse team’s] goal is to finish top 20 in the country and win a Skyline Conference Championship,” said Adams. A personal goal Adams has is to conquer Montclair University, long time lacrosse rivals of Kean University. Adams feels that the lacrosse team can accomplish this goal with the help of the 16 exceptional seniors
“We made over $1,000. It was a great turn out. We are doing the powderpuff game annually and look to expand and hopefully collaborate with other schools in New Jersey to compete and raise money,” said Bre’yanie Pearson, a junior communication public relations major and the President of KDT.
KUCEC’s mission is to train professionals on how to be better equipped for dealing with children that have disabilities, whether the disabilities be physical, mental, emotional, learning impaired or any other disability that may impede a child. Adams is a big player within KUCEC. He hosted a volleyball game fundraiser for the Special Olympics on Monday, March 28, 2016. He is also hosting the KUCEC’s annual Spring Dinner on Thursday, April 14, 2016. Both of the events are huge fundraising opportunities.
“It is important for college students to give back in any way.” Edward Adams
“It is important for [college students] to give back in any way,” said Adams. Adams seems to have made it his business to get involved in many campus activities throughout his college career, but he seems to be properly prepared for the post-college reality. After graduation, Adams intends to pursue a career in law enforcement. Ideally, Adams would like to spend a few years in the law enforcement field, and then eventually make his way to law school. Adams has his sights set on Columbia and Cornell when it comes to pursuing a law institution down the road. Students like Adams are the individuals that help make Kean University better as an overall institution. When he graduates in May, he will leave a memory and a legacy behind, but he will be well prepared for what lies ahead. With his entire future just over the horizon, Adams is making progress towards a successful and happy life overall. Kelsey Moran, junior communication public relations major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
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Photo courtesy of Kean Dance Theatre
KDT performing at a Kean University event
Kelsey Moran
T
Staff Writer
here are several avenues to embrace and express artistic passions on the Kean University campus. One of these creative groups that grace the campus is the Kean Dance Theatre (KDT). KDT is the resident dance company of Kean University and serves as a creative outlet for all types of dancers, with varied levels of experience, to come together into a family of passionate individuals that create works of art through dance. KDT was founded in 1979 by the late William Chaison and has been the resident company for over 30 years. The company is currently under the artistic direction of Sharon McKenzie and has approximately 40 members currently participating. The company practices every Monday and Thursday in room D168 of Kean University’s Harwood Arena. The company is a completely student-run group, and is also a funded group on campus. Students can choreograph and perform personally made pieces, and the genres can range from anything. All genres are included in KDT’s semi-annual showcase, including hip-hop, lyrical, contemporary, modern and cultural pieces such as African dance. There is no restriction as far as styles of dance or choreography goes, therefore there is no limit to what the dancers are able to create and the caliber to which they can express themselves. KDT is extremely involved on the Kean University campus. The company can often be found performing at events held on campus by other student organizations as well as other collegiate events all over New Jersey. KDT also hosts a semi
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Although KDT serves as an effective creative outlet for the members, it also gives a familial feel to those participating. With approximately 40 active members, KDT is a large group, and it seems that the members have come to love each other like family. “[KDT] is beneficial to those involved because it is a great way to become active, learn dances, perform, and build relationships with other members,” said Pearson, “We are all there for the same reason, because we enjoy dancing. We allow members with dance experience to expand and continue to dance as an outlet and we allow members with no dance experience to try something new.” KDT is open to expanding its family. The company begins gathering music and choreographers and opens to new members the second week of every semester. Time and effort goes into performing a full showcase at the conclusion of each semester. Throughout the long and grueling process, however, the participants of KDT have a chance to learn and grow together as well as form strong bonds with each other. “We have members who have danced for years and members who began dancing in KDT. The technique ranges and I think that's what makes KDT so special,” said Pearson. The company is preparing for the spring showcase at the conclusion of this semester. The showcase will take place on Friday, April 22, 2016, at 7 p.m. in Kean University’s Wilkins Theatre. No ticket is necessary for entry, admission is free of charge, and the doors are open to any willing spectators. Any individual wishing to join the ranks of the creative family that is KDT can feel free to reach out via email at kdt@kean.edu.
Kelsey Moran, junior communication public relations major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
Tuesday | April 26 | 2016
Page 5
PSY Organization Taking The World By Storm Kean University’s Psychology Club is doing big things on campus
PSY Org has already hosted the second PSYCHED 2 Paint event this semester. This event enables members to engage in art therapy such as painting and decorating wooden trays as a creative way to relax and unwind. The event was a great success.
A Professor. A Designer. A Writer.
Robin Landa exceeds expectations as a professor Design Solutions the fifth edition, and Build Your Own Brand: Strategies, Prompts, and Exercises for Marketing Yourself.
However, PSY Org still has some tricks up its sleeve. There are still two more PSY Org events happening this semester! The organization’s second “Murder Mystery Dinner” will be happening on Wednesday, April 20, 2016, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Photo courtesy of Alivia Nufrio
Some PSY Org members at a recent general body meeting
Kelsey Moran
T
Staff Writer
here are many creative and impactful clubs and societies on Kean University’s campus. The existence of organizations such as these is a testament to the incredible diversity and commitment of the students on campus. Among the influential and diverse groups at Kean University, is the Psychology Organization (PSY Org.) This organization is dedicated to helping people understand and embrace the field of psychology as a whole. PSY Org is constructed of approximately 30 students with a wide variety of backgrounds as well as academic majors. This organization is by no means limited to those only majoring in psychology. Students from every department and college at Kean University are welcome to join the PSY Org.
“Our Murder Mystery Dinner will be catered and hosted by two professional actors in which roles will be distributed to our members in hopes of finding the mysterious murderer,” explains Nufrio. PSY Org will also be hosting the organization’s first ever “Escape Room Event” on Saturday, April 16, 2016 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The “Escape Room Event” will consist of 30 people being divided up into two teams who will have to use brain power to solve puzzles and riddles to escape “the room” in under an hour. Tickets for this event are $10 and can be purchased at the Wilkins Theatre Box Office with a completed SAPA form and a valid Kean University Student ID. There is also a complimentary Applebee’s dinner that is included in the $10 ticket price after the “Escape Room Event!” PSY Org is also participating in fundraising for the Relay for Life event going on at Kean University on Friday, April 1, 2016.
“PSY Org provides a personal, yet comfortable environment for all our members."
The overall agenda of the organization mostly consists of planning and focusing on upcoming events and opportunities for the organization, such as community service events and other psychology-related activities. PSY Org also prides itself on being able to have in-depth and engaging discussions within the group where all members are able to actively participate. PSY Org is an intellectual experience for individuals from all walks of life. PSY Org has quite the impressive track record from this school year alone. The individuals from the organization seamlessly conform to dedicate efforts towards whatever cause may presently be at hand. “This year alone, we collected Christmas donations for the Linden Public Housing Authority, in addition to collaborating with Kean University’s Occupational Therapy Department and their PAR FORE Project, in which we assisted at-risk youth in creating Christmas cards and ornaments,” said Alivia Nufrio, senior psychology major and the Vice President of PSY Org.
Alivia Nufrio
The PSY Org is a sturdy and dedicated organization that certainly makes its presence known throughout campus and the Kean University community. “The [PSY Org’s] long term goal is to maintain our membership and continue to be an active part in the Kean University [c]ommunity, encouraging students of any major to participate in our mission,” said Nufrio.
The PSY Org functions beautifully as a support system for all of Kean University’s students. The organization is made up of both upperclassmen and lowerclassmen, therefore, the members of the organization value the idea of mentoring one another throughout the trials of college life. “PSY Org provides a personal, yet comfortable environment for all our members. Therefore, we encourage anyone to come out and join our team!” said Nufrio. The PSY Org is only one of the great opportunities that have a home on Kean University’s campus. The organization is wide open to any prospective member that wishes to join. For any more information on the PSY Org, one can visit the organization’s Cougar Link page.
Kelsey Moran, junior communication public relations major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
Competition (continued from page 1) the week has ended. Greek members are held to a particular standard within their community. One of the most important and fundamental aspects of Greek life is that of maintaining the goals and traditions that have existed for generations before them. All Greek organizations were founded on some basis for a reason; members are expected to exemplify that and represent it well wherever they may go in life. “It says about them that not only are they proactive in doing a lot of community service but also do fun activities as well” stated Louis.
They are brought together for a week of enjoyment and pride. Similarly, while Greek life is about brotherhood and sisterhood, it is also about taking the time to let the world around you know what you're about. Most members within a Greek Letter organization uphold the same values and principles. The Greek Olympics creates a space of camaraderie where Greeks can share and appreciate their similarities and differences. For the Kean community, it shows that Greeks share a purpose and represent something very important to the collegiate experience. While in college, many people find belonging and family within their Greek letter organization. Students are exposed to the true friendships, bonds, and close knit relationships that exist within the world of Greek Life. Perhaps most importantly, the Greek Olympics reiterates their ideals of teamwork, sisterhood/brotherhood, trust, respect and determination. In organizing the Greek Olympics, the undertones carry all of those things, which are consequently lessons each Greek maintains long after
“It would have to be Graphic Design Solutions, which is in its fifth edition,” Professor Landa comments about the toughest book she has written thus far. She continues to say that since it was first published in 1996 she has changed the content and image manuscript four times and that Graphic Design Solutions covers every major graphic design discipline.
Beyond that, through Greek Life, they strengthen their leadership skills. Greek involvement allows students to sharpen their skills by providing an environment conducive to the free exchange of ideas. Additionally, they develop socially. Greek life promotes an atmosphere of cooperation, citizenship, diversity and acceptance. There is also an emphasis placed on education. Greek life encourages students to achieve the highest degrees of scholastic achievement they possibly can. They do this by creating a place for students that conducive to intellectual progress. Beyond that, Greek Life creates well-rounded individuals by encouraging students to harbor ideals of community and helping them develop interpersonal skills. Overall, regardless of where you look, Greek life enhance the quality of life for students at a collegiate level and Kean University is no exception. It officially ended on Tuesday, April 19, 2016. All in all, the Greek Olympics, like Greek Life, provide an environment where students can learn from one another, appreciate on another, and make each other better. For more information, please contact CLS, located in Miron Student Center room 219, by calling 908-737-5170. Aliyah Price-Perry, Senior Sociology and Psychology dual major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
Photo courtesy of Kean University Media & Publications
Professor Landa: a dedicated teacher, designer and writer
Gaelle Gilles
T
Staff Writer
hink about the process of producing a successful Super Bowl commercial, a commercial to be well publicized For some people it is hard to think of a great commercial, for others it isn’t. But then again, no one ever said that it would be easy. Luckily enough Kean University has a school—Robert Busch School of Design located in the Green Lane Academic Building (GLAB)—just for students going into the field of design and within the school are some of the best professors to teach future designers, for example graphic design professor Robin Landa. Many students may know Professor Landa as someone who loves what she does and always tries to push her students outside the box. Her love for graphic design is present not only inside the classroom but outside as well. “The idea of being someone who is a primary maker of the visual artifacts of our environment and a creator of popular culture appealed to me,” comments Professor Landa. “Graphic design and advertising design play key roles in the appearance of almost all print, film, and digital media.” Professor Landa explains how at first she didn’t want to be an educator. While an undergraduate student, she explains how she didn’t “enjoy the student teaching experiences I had. After a half day of student teaching, I felt enervated.” But while in graduate school, she was awarded a teaching fellowship at the university she attended. “I relished that opportunity—to talk about a subject I loved with people who were (well behaved) and majoring in the visual arts,” she states. “College-level teaching came naturally to me and students responded to my (rather zany) active learning strategies.” Professor Landa comments how her decision of becoming an educator in higher education was a great one. “When I see the fruits of my teaching, for instance my former students working as executive creative directors, senior art directors, senior graphic designers, UX [user experience] designers, owning ad agencies and more, I often cry with joy.” Although she is highly interested in designing, Professor Landa comments that “it wasn’t until after I earned [a Masters in Fine Arts] that I realized I wanted to be a designer.” Landa owns her own firm where she takes up pro-bono assignments (taking on work without pay) like creating advertisements or brand strategies for charities and nonprofit organizations. Her clients vary from pharmaceutical to beverage companies and more. Besides being a professor and a designer, Professor Landa has also written and published 21 books. The books she has written includes 2D: Visual Basics for Designers (Design Concepts), Graphic
A Leadership and Service Publication for the Kean University Student Community
Although the book mentioned above was one of the toughest books she has written, Professor Landa comments that some of her favorite books are “the books that are extensions of my teaching—Graphic Design Solutions, Advertising By Design, and Nimble: Thinking Creatively in the Digital Age.” She continues to say that she is currently working on the third edition of Advertising By Design, and that she is “immersed in thinking about the creative side of advertising, which fuels teaching my three advanced advertising design classes in the Robert Busch School of Design at [Kean University].” She also comments about her other book Nimble: Thinking Creatively in the Digital Age which focuses on her unique approach on how she teaches students to create branded content, as well as how to still be imaginative in the age of social media. Some people may think that her day as a writer, professor and a designer is endless. Which, sometimes it is. “In the Robert Busch School of Design, our studio classes are six hours long, so I spend a good deal of time in the classroom, as well as time mentoring and advising my students,” she comments. With her busy schedule, she does find time to relax by going to theater, reading and watching films. She also writes fiction on her own time, whenever she gets a chance. Professor Landa goes on to comment how she has to provide the best environment to the talented students that come in and out of the Robert Busch School of Design and be content that she gives them the best to thrive.
“The idea of being someone who is a primary maker of the visual artifacts of our environment and a creator of popular culture appealed to me." Robin Landa
Professor Landa comments about how she loves to brag about her former students who have become successful in their field. Many of her former students have won awards, created national brand package designs, created commercials for the Super Bowl and have designed President Obama’s campaign website. “Our students have such good experiences at Kean [University] that after they graduate they want to come back to teach,” Professor Landa proudly says. “Our alumni hire our students and visit to share their experiences with our aspiring graphic designers and advertising art directors.” It is evident that Professor Landa is someone who truly cares about the success of her students and is proud whenever she hears that her students become successful in their field. Sometimes, someone’s success isn’t always what he or she produces to be sold, but the success of a pupil he or she taught.
Gaelle Gilles, junior English writing major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
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Tuesday | April 26 | 2016
New Royalty On Campus
Two Greek life members are crowned Greek God and Goddess criminal justice major 3. Tsu-min Lin from Gamma Psi Epsilon, senior communication major 4. Alyakim Meadows from Nu Delta Pi, sophomore undecided major 5. Jordan Jeremy Vasquez from Sigma Beta Tau, senior marketing major 1. Fiona Digennaro from Delta Phi Epsilon, senior marketing major 2. Alexandra Ostolaza from Nu Theta Chi, senior communication mass media major Jacob Fermaint | The Cougar's Byte
Fiona Digennaro and Tsu-min Lin the new Greek God and Goddess
Amanda Petty
O
Editor
n Tuesday, April 12, 2016, at 8 p.m. in Little Theatre, both Greeks and non-Greeks alike came out to become aware of child abuse while supporting the contestants. Since 1997, an event has been held to bring awareness to child abuse. This event is The Greek God and Goddess Pageant, hosted by Lambda Tau Omega Sorority, Inc. in honor of its philanthropy, The Blue Ribbon Campaign. April is reserved as National Child Abuse Prevention Month, befitting for the sorority’s pageant and the purpose it serves. As the doors opened and attendees were invited in, music ushered them to their seats, ranging from hiphop to country, throwing in a little of Frozen’s “Let It Go,” appealing to students’ wide music preferences. Music during the pageant was provided by DJ Nix in the Mix. There were hardly any empty seats, occupied with eager attendees awaiting the contestants to take the stage. Priscilla Sanchez, alumna and Lambda Tau Omega Sorority Inc. President in 2013, explained why the pageant is held annually. “It is important for everyone to have the knowledge of abuse or violence not just being physical but the different ways it may occur…,” Sanchez stated. “This pageant brings awareness to the background of this issue as well as teaching the contestants and audience on various ways to handle a situation if it was to ever occur to them.” The hosts for the evening were Sanchez and Josette Rubio, alumna and 2014 President of Lambda Tau Omega Sorority Inc. Stephanie Martinez, alumna of class of 2014 and Lambda Tau Omega Sorority Inc. President in 2013, helped with the pageant by assisting backstage. There were three judges to determine the Greek God and Goddess. Sandra Espinal, who is the sorority’s advisor and also the Coordinator for Student Leadership Programs at the Center for Leadership and Service (CLS), Rosa Paulina, who is an Academic Support Specialist for School of General Studies, and Alyson Montalvo, who is an alumna sister of the sorority’s Heptakin Eta Chapter from Seton Hall. The Greek God and Goddess contestants were: 1. Joseph Heunermund from Nu Sigma Phi, senior psychology major 2. Jordan Jones from Sigma Theta Chi, junior
3. Nicolette Perone from Theta Phi Alpha, sophomore psychology and pre-occupational therapy major 4. Giulianna Viera from Omega Sigma Psi, junior English major The Greek God and Goddess Pageant was broken into three categories: para wear, talent and evening wear and Q&A.
Perone. Instead, she danced to James Bay’s “Let It Go," earning her positive feedback from the audience at impressive moments in the routine. Putting a unique spin on her talent of singing, Ostolaza performed the “Cup” song, complete with taking a seat center stage and singing a cappella, very Anna Kendrick-esque. Meadows sang Kevin McCall’s “Compliments.” This song was selected by Meadows because he grew up in a group home, and this led to him learning that “not a lot of people know how far a compliment can go.” The next contestant up was Digennaro, who sang “At Last” by Etta James. From the first note to the last, she had the support and encouragement from the audience. Responsible for closing the talent portion of the night, Heunermun brought out an acoustic guitar to perform Oasis’ “Wonderwall.” It only took until the second verse for audience members to keep a well-maintained clap in tune for Heunermun. The next step for attendees was to sing along with Heunermun, and sing along they did. His performance came to a close with his brothers in the audience giving him a standing ovation.
The pageant kicked off with Vasquez saying one of his favorite parts about Greek life is the diversity. Since this is Vasquez’s last year on campus, he decided to bring several of the shirts he’s collected over the years as a show of remembrance and a nod of appreciation to his fraternity Sigma Beta Tau.
The contestants' last opportunity to win the judges over was with their evening wear and Q&A. Keeping with the theme of the pageant, all questions addressed to the nine contestants pertained to abuse in various forms and degrees.
Jones, who is new to Greek life, decided to wear the hat his friend bought him after he crossed and became a brother of his fraternity.
Lin was faced with the scenario of his teenager neighbor being bullied at school because of the activities the he chose to partake in. He was asked what advice he would give this teenager.
A popular choice among contestants was to represent their fraternities and sororities mascots. Perone brought a giant stuffed penguin on stage in representation of her sorority’s mascot. Meadows donned a fashionable lizard onesie, which is his fraternity’s mascot.
His closing statement was for his neighbor to take on the mindset of, “I’m better than you, but that doesn’t mean I’m better than everyone else.” Audience members applauded his advice as it can be applied it everyone's life.
Meadows wasn’t the only contestant who wore bedtime attire on stage. Digennaro wanted to represent her sorority by wearing a unicorn onesie over her Greek letters shirt. She continued to explain to the audience that she wore her Greek letters fanny pack to show that she’s a true 1990s baby through and through. Digennaro commented that a passion of hers is awareness of melanoma. Her mother has a form of melanoma, and it was because of this association with the disease Digennaro is determined to increase awareness of it. When asked about his Greek experience, Heunermun commented that his fraternity “teaches principles from the start.” After sharing the story of how he was going through a rough time after transferring the Kean University, not knowing anyone on campus, it were the men he would soon call brothers that helped him. “They were there for me [then], and they still are to this day,” Heunermun stated. The talent portion of the pageant came up next. Viera sang “We Don’t Have to Take Our Clothes Off,” which is originally sung by Jermaine Stewart in 1986, and covered by Gym Class Heroes in 2006 and Ella Eyre in 1015. The Goddess contestant successfully showed her talent and vocal range, and attendees appreciated her talent. Jones sang “Sure Thing” by the artist Miguel. As he started singing he got the audience to put its hands in the air and sway them back and forth in tune with the tempo. At points in the performance he even stopped singing to show off another talent of his, dancing. Dancing made another appearance at the pageant. One of the few contestants who didn't sing was
Another response attendees appreciated was that from Digennaro. She gave the composed answer, “I’m proud to be who I am, and everyone should be proud to be who they are.” As the judges were preoccupied with tallying the results, attendees wasted no time getting out of their seats and dancing to the music. Intermission could have easily been mistaken for a dance party. There were nine contestants, four runner-ups and two winners. In third place, it was Meadows and Ostolaza. Second place was taken by Vasquez and Perone. The crown for Greek God was bestowed to Lin, and Digennaro was crowned as Greek Goddess. The main focus of The Greek God and Goddess Pageant was to drum up awareness of The Blue Ribbon Campaign and child abuse. While succeeding with that objective, the pageant also served to bring together Greek members from the various organizations. “This program would not be possible without all the organizations [who] participated as well as those who came to support,” Sanchez stated. “Lambda Tau Omega Sorority Inc. stands for ‘Excellence through Unity, Knowledge, and Dedication.’ These are the qualities the contestants brought with them.” Alex Louis, Assistant Director of CLS, gave a heartfelt speech and stated, “I want to tell you how proud I am of you guys…you do an amazing job on and off campus.” This was when Louis announced that he will show his appreciation for all Greeks by hosting a party. The date and time will be announced at a later date. Amanda Petty, junior English writing and communication double major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
Mousseau (continued from page 2) But then, “one day I got a letter that changed everything,” Mosseau says. He explains after going to Saint Louis for a conference, he received an envelope from the hotel. “Inside the envelope were pictures of me being sexually assaulted.” From the pictures, Mosseau can tell that he was drugged. He was in his early 20s. For nine months Mosseau was angry and started drinking. It took him a while before realizing that it was time for him to get some help. He went to counseling and spoke with other male survivors, and eventually moved to Denver, Colorado. That is when he had the idea of speaking up about sexually assault, because he learned that some people find it difficult to talk about sexual violence when it is someone they know.
“Our society framed the conversation on sexual assault…that if you are sexually assaulted that you should be ashamed of that or you shouldn’t talk about it,” Mosseau says. He continues to say that sexual assault is being talked about in the wrong way. He comments that sexual violence happens to everyone and that 1 in 16 men will be sexually assaulted before the age of 18, while 1 in 4 women will be sexually assaulted in college and that 64 percent of transgenders will experience some form of sexual violence. Mosseau also comments that sexual violence can be easily prevented. He comments that not everyone knows what consent means and easily explains it by relating it to asking someone if they want coffee.
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“If someone says no to coffee, do you ask them again? No, you don’t.” But if someone says yes, “what do you ask next? How do you take your coffee?” Sexual violence is a subject that needs to be talked about. If one has been sexually assaulted, it is best to speak to someone—a friend, a family member or a counselor— before trying to cope with it with alcohol or drugs. Kean University has a counseling department in Downs Hall for anyone who wants to speak to a counselor. For more information about sexual violence go to rainn.org. For more information about Mosseau, visit campuspeak.com.
Wreck The Stigma: Sigma Gamma Rho Steps For A Fallen Sister
Sigma Gamma Rho commemorated Sandra Bland with a display that spoke out against police brutality
Photo courtesy of Greek Senate
Phi Beta Sigma and Sigma Gamma Rho win the 2016 Wreck The Yard step showcase
Gabby Vicedomini
W
Staff Writer
e’re making changes! shouted four members of Kean University’s chapter of national sorority Sigma Gamma Rho (SGRHO) at this year’s Wreck The Yard, which took place in Wilkins Theatre on Friday, April 8, 2016. On July 10, 2015, Sandra Bland was pulled over in Texas by State Trooper Brian Encinia for failure to use her turn signal. After several minutes of uncooperative yet valid communication, Encinia drastically arrested Bland. Three days later, Bland was found dead in her cell, cause of death: suicide by asphyxiation. Bland’s family and many others hold tight to the belief that she should have never been arrested, and left alone for three days. This case is seen, by many, as a case of abuse of power and police brutality against an African-American woman. What most people don’t know is that Bland was a sister of Sigma Gamma Rho. With this knowledge, the sisters of SGRHO at Kean University decided to dedicate this particular performance to those affected by similar circumstances. The four sisters took the stage in police themed costumes and proceeded to step with precision and intensity. Acting as warriors against violent and racially charged crimes, the women militantly worked towards change on stage for one of their own. “There has been a lot of recent cases of police brutality and we wanted to take a stand,” said sister of SGRHO Rosalee Howard, a junior psychology major. “She was a member of our sorority and people need to remember that there are things bigger than yourself.” Judges Albert Asiama and Kayla Raquel were wowed by the performance as well as many audience members, stating that it was impressive and “really something.” Other acts from fraternities and sororities throughout the night included a nursing home theme from Alpha Phi Alpha, a Rugrats theme from Iota Phi Theta, a harlequin nightmare circus theme from Delta Sigma Theta, among many others. Two crowd favorites not previously mentioned were Chi Upsilon Sigma and Phi Beta Sigma, who ended up taking home one of the two trophies by the end of the night, the other going rightfully to SGRHO. The contestants were not only judged on coordination and skill, but also theme, creativity and originality. The show concluded with performance by Jaryd Lewis, also known as “2Stacks.” Asiama, a friend of Lewis, told of his struggles to reach his full potential and was honored to have him at such a large event. “Chasing your dreams is hard,” said Asiama. “But my friend just won’t give up, he’s the real deal.” After the winners were announced, the entire theatre erupted with applause and praise for SGRHO and Phi Beta Sigma. With a crowd reaching into the hundreds, it was the perfect time and place to plug the Kean Dance Marathon (KDM) taking place on Friday, April 15, 2016; donations to KDM were also encouraged. “Stroll or die,” said Asiama to conclude the night.
Gaelle Gilles, junior English writing major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
www.cougarsbyte.com
Gabby Vicedomini, senior, English and communication studies major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
TUeSDaY | aPRIL 26 | 2016
Page 7
The Face Of Forensic Psychology at Kean University
How a chemistry student salvaged a club with nothing but hope and passion Gabby Vicedomini
I
Staff Writer
t has been a long year for junior chemistry major Elizabeth Tolentino, who took it upon herself to become the president of a recently established club with an almost nonexistent foundation. The Forensic Psychology Club at Kean University was created in the spring semester of 2015, making it one of the freshest student organizations on campus. Originally, many students registered to become members, including Tolentino, who after some time of being unsatisfied with the lack of structure and leadership, claimed responsibility for the future of forensics at Kean University. “I didn’t want to step on anyone’s toes but I had to take over,” recalled Tolentino about her decision to step up to the plate. Tolentino was initially nervous about her new role as president but she knew she could not let the club she had waited so long for die. Forensic science wasn’t always in the stars for her, but in high school she was presented with the opportunity to take the subject as an elective and fell in love but didn’t think there was a future in it. After a few years struggling in the role of a physical therapy major, Tolentino knew what she had to do – pursue a career in forensic science. “I really want to be in forensics, it’s something I am passionate about,” said Tolentino to her parents after this epiphany. “I’m sorry that I’m not going
to be a doctor.” Forensics is a broad term that refers to an entire industry of different specialized fields. Forensic psychology specifically deals with a combination of applying the law and criminal justice to psychological clues, such as a history of mental health or trends in social issues. A psychologist working in this field analyzes victims and criminals alike; using their reactions and backgrounds to aide in the deciphering of clues to a case.
As for Tolentino, her path in forensics lies with toxicology. Forensic toxicology uses chemistry and pharmacology to aid in medical examinations or legal investigations of death, poisoning or drug use. Collecting DNA samples, performing autopsies and other experimental lab work is included in this job description. Finding a master’s program in any branch of forensics is challenging but she is determined to
ask
(continued from page 1) ASK is meant to serve as the helping hand for students interested in the field of actuary science. This organization acts as a gateway for students to learn about the career and gain association with the Society of Actuaries, which further progresses their involvement in actuary science and potentially network with practiced actuaries. As responsibility varies with an actuary’s concentration, they typically are tasked with written and verbal communication, research, onthe-job training and technical actuarial work. On Be An Actuary’s website, there is a caption that captures the essence of what it means to be an actuary: “Part super-hero. Part fortune-teller. Part trusted advisor.” Whichever aspect of the science a person goes into, ASK will prepare them for all. Wolde Woubneh, Adviser of ASK and a School of Mathematical Sciences professor, said the organization has tasked itself with the goal of making “ASK known across Kean campuses, develop a website for ASK, [and] develop a social website for ASK so that members can connect” with the Kean community. Similar to other college students, Alana Lopez, Vice President of ASK and a junior majoring in mathematics with a concentration in statistics, decided to turn a passion of hers into a career. “Well, honestly, I enjoy mathematics…” and it’s as simple as that. But her efforts to pave the road to her, and other’s, actuarial career didn’t stop there. She was one of the three students who founded ASK. The other founders of the society are Ethan Finkiel, who is President of ASK, and Leanne Garcia, who serves as Treasurer of ASK. “Not many people know what an actuary is so we want to provide knowledge to others and ignite interest,” Lopez stated. “The [School of] Mathematical Sciences… has been pushing students to become actuaries for the past few years,” said Finkiel, who is a sophomore majoring in mathematical science with a concentration in statistics. “We felt the need for a professional organization on campus [dedicated to actuarial science]…There is a lot required to become an actuary and we strive to make that easier for anyone interested in the profession.” “The mission is to make Kean University an institution where anyone can pursue a career as an actuary easily,” said Finkiel. With that in mind, the society chose Woubneh as the advisor because of the professor’s ability to support the mission while also The ASK advisor has gained a great understanding of the science, which he readily shares with students. “I have developed the actuarial math course and have guided a few of our majors to take
the actuarial exams successfully,” said Woubneh. His knowledge of the field will be of utmost help for ASK members as he can act as a mentor, not only with the science itself but with the process of being accepted into the field.
Gabby Vicedomini | The Cougar’s Byte
elizabeth Tolentino preparing for the next forensic psychology club follow her dreams. “It might seem hard or challenging but it will definitely be worth it if it’s something you love,” said Tolentino. For more information about the Forensic Psychology Club, email Tolentino at fpsychology@kean.edu. Gabby Vicedomini, senior English and communication double major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
Finkiel
If the interest of students are piqued about ASK, membership to the organization can be gained easily. Lopez commented students should “come to our upcoming meetings, see what we are about, and sign up!” commented Lopez. Finkiel would like students to feel comfortable joining ASK. “We're open to everyone. Being a member is simple. We're a professional organization, so we hope to provide networking events in the future.” As of now, there are no meetings scheduled. “We're currently working on our first group meeting where we'll discuss what actuaries are and how to become one,” Finkiel stated. “In addition, we are working on bringing Kean graduates who have gone on to become actuaries.” Be on the lookout as meetings will be announced on ASK’s Cougar Link page. “If anyone is interested or would like to hear more, please feel free to contact me,” said Finkiel.
Amanda Petty, junior English writing and communication double major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
Monday - Thursday: ..................9 a.m. -8 p.m. Friday: .......................................9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday: .............................9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. Sunday: ................................................. Closed
Nancy Thompson Library
Monday - Thursday: ................. 8 a.m. - 2 a.m. Friday : ....................................8 a.m. - 12 a.m. Saturday: ..................................9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday: .....................................1 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Monday - Thursday: 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday: 1 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Mommy & Me Tea & Craft
Liberty Hall Museum holds a workshop
Nancy Thompson
Library 1st Floor
H O U R S O F O P E R AT I O N UPPERCLASSMAN RESIDENCE HALL
Photo courtesy of Liberty Hall Museum
Just in time for Mother's Day!
Jiaqi Ni
“We're open to everyone. Being a member is simple. We're a professional organization, so we hope to provide networking events in the future.”
MSC GAME ROOM Monday - Thursday:.........10 a.m. - 11 p.m. Friday: ............................10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Saturday: ........................10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Sunday: ..........................10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Maxine and Jack Lane Center for Academic Success
The organization also stands to prepare students who are planning on taking the actuarial exams. “Over the past few years some of our students have taken a few of the actuarial exams and passed it,” Woubneh commented. If a student is thinking about taking the exams, Woubneh advised to keep in mind that “To pass the actuarial exams, the student should have [a] strong background in mathematics…The tests are not easy. The students have to compete with other math majors from all over the nation, yet our students have passed these difficult tests with distinction.”
MSC INFO DESK P: 908-737-5222 Monday - Thursday:......7:30 a.m. - 12 a.m. Friday: ....................... 7:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Saturday: ..........................8 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday: .........................10 a.m. - 8p.m.
MSC COMPUTER LAB Monday - Thursday: .......8 a.m. - 11 p.m. Friday: ..............................8 a.m. - 9 p.m. Saturday: ..........................9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Sunday: ..........................10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
The Forensic Psychology Club meets bi-weekly on Thursdays from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Center for Academic Success (CAS) room 354. The club is open for those of all majors and the current executive board is “up-in the air”. Topics in meetings vary from session to session. For example: in the most recent meeting, students discussed forensic toxicology and investigation of evidence such as finger prints are on the agenda for the future.
MIRON STUDeNT CeNTeR
O
Staff Writer
n Saturday, May 7, 2016, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Liberty Hall Museum at Kean University will hold Mommy & Me Tea and Craft Workshop. It is a nice way to bring moms, aunts, grandmas and their little girls together to prior celebrate Mother's Day. In the United States, Mother's Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May, so it is the eighth of May in 2016. Mother's Day is a celebration of mothers and the maternal bond, and traditionally children give flowers, presents and cards to their mothers and other maternal figures such as grandmothers, stepmothers and mothers-in-law. Just in time for Mother's Day celebration from Liberty Hall Museum, mothers and children will create a beautiful spring crepe paper flower arrangement. The best part is, these flowers will last forever! After the workshop, enjoy iced tea in real tea cups and some delicious snacks such as mini muffins, cupcakes, etc. And also do one or two crafts together, play some games like Bingo and have a photo taken in the booth area.
NURH Dining Hall Monday - Thursday: .... 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. Breakfast: ............... 7 a.m. - 10 a.m. Lunch: ..................... 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Dinner: ...................... 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. Friday: ........................... 7 a.m. - 9 p.m. Breakfast: ............... 7 a.m. - 10 a.m. Lunch: ..................... 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Dinner: ...................... 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. Saturday: ..................... 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Brunch: ................... 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Dinner: ...................... 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday:...................... 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Brunch: ................... 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Dinner: ...................... 4 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Please Note: The Dining Hall is open all day for the hours listed, the meal periods denote entree station availability.
MIRON STUDENT CENTER (MSC)
Food Court Monday - Thursday: . 7:30 a.m. - 7 p.m. Friday: ...................... 7:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday: ....................... 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sunday:....................................CLOSED Jersey Mike's Subs: .... 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Cougar's Den Monday - Thursday: .. 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. Friday: ......................... 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday - Sunday: ................. CLOSED Market Place Monday - Thursday: .... 9 a.m. - 11 p.m. Friday: ........................... 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Saturday: ..................... 12 p.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday:.......................... 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.
MAXINE AND JACK LANE CENTER FOR ACADEMIC SUCCESS (CAS)
Starbucks Kiosk, 3rd Floor Monday - Thursday: ...7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Friday............................. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday - Sunday: ................. CLOSED
Tickets can be purchased over the phone at 908-5270400 or online by visiting www.kean.edu/libertyhall/ events. It is $20 for one child and one adult, additional adults are $5 each. Reservations are required by Saturday, April 30, 2016.
EAST CAMPUS (EC)
Come to join Liberty Hall Museum and have some fun! For more information, please visit https://kean. collegiatelink.net/organization/libertyhall/calendar/ details/834529.
STEM BUILDING
Jiaqi Ni, senior finance major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
a Leadership and Service Publication for the Kean University Student Community
Cafe Yumba Monday - Thursday: .7:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. Friday: ...................... 7:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday - Sunday: .................CLOSED Kiosk Monday - Thursday: ...... 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Friday: ........................... 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday - Sunday: .................CLOSED All Hours Subject to Change.
Page 8
Tuesday | April 26 | 2016
A Day To Give Back
Kean Cougars are invited to volunteer during Cougar’s That Care Amanda Petty
T
return at 1:00 p.m.
Editor
Atria Senior Living is the hub of activity for volunteers. Cougar’s That Care participants will bond with senior citizens through arts and crafts, conversation, games such as trivia and other recreational activities. This volunteer outing will be from 12:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
he Center for Leadership and Service’s (CLS) semi-annual Cougar’s That Care is on the horizon. This semester, Kean University’s day of service will take place on Saturday, April 30, 2016. Cougar’s That Care is an event in which the Kean community comes together to give back to the surrounding area through several volunteer opportunities.
The trip to the Community FoodBank of New Jersey will entail volunteers more than likely working with food and household items, ranging from sorting products by function to packaging products for people to easily take home. In the past, volunteers have also spent time stuffing envelopes. Students are asked to arrive at the Vaughn Eames parking lot at 10:45 a.m. The shuttle is expected to return to campus around 2:00 p.m.
As of now, there are four service trips being offered. Students can volunteer their services via: ■■ Adopt-A-Park ■■ Atria Senior Living ■■ Community Food Bank of New Jersey ■■ Habitat for Humanity In Union County alone there are 36 parks that dominate 6,200 acres. All that land requires a lot of upkeep, which is where volunteers come in. It’s time for the students of Kean University to get their hands dirty at Adopt-A-Park. This community service event will have participants clear away debris and litter, repair fenced area, restore park streams and other areas in the park that need attention. Adopt-A-Park is an outside community service project. Volunteers should wear clothes they
Photo courtesy of the Center for Leadership and Service
Be part of Kean University’s community service efforts will not mind getting dirty and are befitting to weather conditions. Students should arrive at 9:45 a.m. at the Vaughn Eames parking lot and
Habitat for Humanity is an organization that gives low-income families the opportunity to live in a home they built. When a family is selected to join the Habitat for Humanity program, a site manager will be assigned to the project and will coach the family members and volunteers in all areas of the construction of the home. Cougar’s That Care volunteers will not know the task for the day until arrival on the site. Students should be mindful of the weather while wearing clothes that can get dirty. Habitat for Humanity advises students to visit www.hfhvolunteerinsurance.com. The website
contains a short video that demonstrates what is expected of volunteers while at the build site. Once on the website, click “Step 2”, enter access code W8NAEBTG and select Volunteering at a Habitat for Humanity Job Site”. One of the service events generate some interest? If so, it is a requirement for individuals to register for the desired event. Please keep in mind that space is limited, so make sure to register soon. The required registration form for all service projects are made available at https://kean.collegiatelink. net/form/start/76368. The times and duration vary amongst the community service outings, so make sure to pay attention when selecting which event to register for. Transportation will be provided to and from each service project. Want to be involved on a larger scale? Student organizations and athletic teams are welcome to partake in the day of community service. More information on Cougar’s That Care can be provided by CLS. Please stop by the CLS office at Miron Student Center (MSC) room 219, call 908-737-5170 or email serve@kean.edu for more information.
Amanda Petty, junior English writing and communication double major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
Marathon (continued from page 1)
University graduate student Laneesha Bacchus.
Downs Hall was packed with concessions for the dedicated dancers that came to participate in KDM. T-shirts, water bottles and buffet foods such as sandwiches and bagels were available to the students. So many students crowded into Downs Hall to dance the day and night away in honor of Jude and all ill children who are still being treated at the Children’s Specialized Hospital. [KDM] really helps build character,” said the Greek Senate President, Whitney Wanton, senior double major in communication media and Spanish, “it also gives a different perspective that there are kids who are doing a lot worse than we are.” KDM kicked off with a two-song performance from the Kean Gospel Choir (KGC). Many performances followed KGC, including a performance by DP3, a band led by Kean University student David Paul, as well as a demonstration of Dance Hall Aerobics taught by Kean
Periodic interruptions and speeches from the patients of the Children’s Specialized Hospital and their families allowed the KDM participants to have a peek into the lives of the children and their amazing recoveries, as well as the life-changing work
“Hearing the stories of these kids will make an advocate out of anybody." Michael Illycn
being performed by the personnel at the Children’s Specialized Hospital. “Hearing the stories of these kids will make an advocate out of anybody,” said Michael Illycn, junior marketing
/cougarsbyte
major, after he listened to a patient’s experience. Jude’s story sent chills through the crowd at KDM. The presence of such a strong little boy had a notable impact on those present for KDM. The crowd was silent as Boright told her baby boy’s story, and it was a quick reminder that those lucky enough to reach college age took so much for granted when growing up. At the conclusion of KDM, an outstanding amount of $38,014.24 was raised for the Children’s Specialized Hospital. Kean University has maintained the record with the most money raised at the dance marathon for consecutive years. KDM is already being planned for next year. The official date of the event will be Friday, April 14, 2017, and the new fundraising goal is $40,000. The overwhelming success of this year’s KDM has set the standard remarkably high for the years to come. The Children’s Specialized Hospital, Jude and his
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family, as well as the other patients in the hospital’s care extend sincere thanks to the students that participated in KDM. A huge stride was made in bettering the children’s lives because of the dedicated and caring student body of Kean University. Gabby Vicedomini, senior, English and communication studies major, and Kelsey Moran, junior, Communication Public Relations major, are members of The Cougar’s Byte staff.