March 4 by MediaOCU

THE CAMPUS March 4, 2020 – Volume 113 Issue 20

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Clara Foster Student Publications

Snaps for success

The competitive pom/dance team got the top spot at the Feb. 28 NAIA Southwest Qualifying Group Competitive Dance Championships in Abe Lemons Arena in Henry J. Freede Wellness and Activity Center. In an article on OCUSports.com, Tasha Hinex, pom/dance coach, said “Their finals performance was the true definition of leaving it all on the floor.” The Stars’ final score was 94.16, beating the second place team, Missouri Baptist University, by almost 10 points. The NAIA championships will be March 13-14 in Davenport, Iowa.

Diversity, inclusion candidates visit campus Four qualified individuals considered for vice president position Paul Dower

COPY EDITOR

Administrative officials will soon decide the best candidate for vice president of diversity and inclusion. The candidates recently visited campus to lead student forums about their ideas, answer questions, and receive feedback on the hiring process from the students. Trae Trousdale, political science/mass communications junior, was present at all of the forums and is a member of the hiring committee. He said he recognizes the challenge that comes with deciding the candidate. “It’s going to be hard to pick this position, and there is no wrong choice. President Burger cannot make a wrong choice,” he said. “It truly is just picking the personality and leadership style that we would like to add to OCU.” Trousdale said he has been part of the hiring process since applications started coming in. “We had over 100 applications for this position at OCU,” Trousdale said. “Coming to these final four, it has definitely been a journey.” The candidates currently under consideration are former state senator Angela Monson, Dr. Jobi Martinez, Dr. Talia Carroll and Dr. Terrence Mitchell. Trousdale said the job of vice president of diversity and inclusion is not an easy position to take on.

I t ' s g o i n g to be hard to pick this position, and there is no wrong choice. Trae Trousdale

political science/mass communications junior

work in a higher education setting,” she said. “Somebody who had been effective in leading systematic change on a college campus.” Trousdale said Monson’s strength will be fostering a community environment on campus. “I think her largest strength lies in her relationship to Oklahoma and Oklahoma City,” he said. Trousdale said Martinez has plenty of experience in academics in relation to diversity and inclusion. “Dr. Martinez is definitely the more academic presentation of our candidates. She touched on her dissertation paper. She has a strong communications background. It is something she has studied in her Ph.D. program and as an undergraduate student. She actually studied the use of social media and how we frame chief diversity officer conversations,” he said. “I think that’s probably her strong suit.” Trousdale said Carroll had the most experience with interacting directly with students. “I think Dr. Carroll’s strength lies in her relationship building,” he said. “Something that I took away from the students I talked to yesterday is they felt most comfortable with Dr. Carroll, and I think that her background sort of lends to that.” Mitchell, however, was unlike any of the other candidates, Trousdale said. “He draws tenets from each of the strengths of the other candidates. He believes in focusing on community and formulating those partnerships that are necessary for OCU’s success, but I think that he is dedicated, as they all are, to

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“We are asking one candidate to be able to go from sitting with President Burger, having a discussion about how are we diversifying the board of trustees (that came up at one of the student sessions), to someone who can go to a BSA meeting at 8 o’clock on a Thursday evening and be able to walk into that space, be accepted by the students and leave that space with the advocacy background necessary to make institutional change for the students,” he said. “We’re looking for a unicorn of a candidate.” Jessica Martinez-Brooks, interim diversity and inclusion advocate, said her experience in her role has made her aware of what skills are needed for the position. “We were looking for somebody who was a strong relationship builder, somebody who had experience doing diversity and inclusion work, and, it wasn’t a mandatory thing, but we really wanted to see somebody who had been doing

the academic rigor, the curriculum, as well as the student experience that we have,” he said. “Dr. Mitchell specifically brings a lot of life experience.” The hiring committee will meet today to discuss the forums and student feedback and pick their suggestion for President Burger to decide who will fill the position. According to Trousdale, the decision will be made by the end of the semester.

Top Left: Angela Monson, Top Right: Dr. Jobi Martinez, Bottom Left: Dr. Talia Carroll, Bottom Right: Dr. Terrence Mitchell. Photos from okcu.edu, compilation by Luke Barrett

University officials respond to discrimination allegations Emily Wollenberg

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

University officials are responding to allegations of discrimination and retaliation. Last week, two professors, a staff member and a former campus police officer came forward about allegations of discrimination and retaliation. See mediaocu.com for more on the story. Joey Croslin, vice president for human resources, said university policy prohibits her from commenting on any personnel matters, but the university does take any report seriously. “The university prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation, and we want an environment that is free from all of those things,” Croslin said. Dr. George Sims, interim provost, said after experiencing policies and procedures at other universities, he can see that OCU officials work diligently to make sure students, faculty and staff are aware of the channels for submitting reports. “This is the fifth campus I’ve served on, and this campus

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does more proactively to make the policies and procedures available to everybody and make reporting possible than any other place I’ve been,” Sims said. Sims said the fact that people are submitting reports shows the process is doing what it was intended to do. “There is always a tendency of me to want to be the superhero and straighten it all out, but experience has shown that by trusting the process you get to a better understanding of the situation,” Sims said. Sims said officials are willing to help anyone who needs assistance in submitting a grievance or filing a report. “As long as we continue to appoint human beings as faculty members and have human beings as students, we’re going to have, from time to time, issues,” he said. “What we’re going for is the policy and procedures that enable us to resolve those issues one at a time in a way that protects all those human beings.” Croslin said she hopes to see a way to report bias on campus implemented to further conversations and training regarding instances of bias. “That’s an opportunity for

We're committed to diversity and inclusion. We're committing to eliminating discrimination and harassment. Dr. George Sims

interim provost

people to be heard and for other people to understand how they may have hurt or offended someone that doesn’t necessarily rise to the level of discrimination or harassment or retaliation or a policy violation, but it’s still behavior that doesn’t align with our core values of diversity and inclusion,” she said. Croslin said freshman students are taught how to submit reports to Human Resources, new employees go through training and current employees receive ongoing training. “We’re always in a mindset of continuous improvement,” Croslin said. According to the university’s nondiscrimination and equity resolution process, each party involved in a report is granted

the right to investigation and appropriate resolution of all credible reports. Croslin said although not all investigations will end in the outcome a party might want, the HR staff is well-trained and looks into every report thoroughly. “We’re committed to diversity and inclusion. We’re committed to eliminating discrimination and harassment,” Sims said. “And we’re always in a learning process of what more needs to be done to achieve that goal.” Leslie Berger, senior director of university communication, said in an email to Student Publications that the university’s core values, which were shaped by student, faculty, staff, trustee and alumni input, focus on

inclusion. “Our core values are integrity, respect, diversity and inclusion, and collaboration,” she said. Taylor Downey, youth ministry junior and Title IX program coordinator, said if students, faculty or staff have concerns related to discrimination, they can reach out to Kristi Pendleton, the Civil Rights Investigator. “She is able to look into a more broad spectrum of discrimination cases as well as Title IX,” Downey said. “I always encourage anyone who isn't sure how to proceed in an incident, whether it would fall under the Title IX or civil rights umbrella, to reach out to her and see what she suggests.” In an email to Student Publications, Dr. Amy Cataldi, dean of Petree College of Arts & Sciences and interim assistant provost, said the campus is dedicated to inclusion. “What I can say about the university campus, in my experience, is that the people here–students, faculty, staff, and administration–are focused on and committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion at OCU,” Cataldi said. Cataldi said the most recent

example of the community’s dedication to equity is the creation of the position of vice president of diversity and inclusion. “At every candidate meeting I was in, VPs or Deans asked about each of the following: what are your experiences/ideas/best practices for promoting to and hiring of diverse faculty candidates; how can we bring alumni even if they are disengaged back into the fold; what can we do to make prospective students and their families see this is a campus that welcomes, educates, and values everyone; what kind of outreach, engagement, and programming can help our OCU community become more culturally aware, informed, and respectful.” A complete list of the university’s policies and information on how to submit a report is available at okcu. edu/admin/hr/policies/ under the Human Resources tab. The campus conduct hotline is 1-866-943-5787.

Dear Ms. Marty Pants: When you’re here, you’re family

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Investigating vandalism

This week, Ms. Pants gives advice about study abroad, relationships, and unrequited romance. Send questions to Ms. Pants’ secretary at fiacovacci@my.okcu.edu. Check out the photo gallery for the recent production of “A Little Night Music.” Learn about the recent destruction of posters across campus.

opinion Editors address participation in diversity, inclusion survey In any community, especially a place of higher education, tolerance and diversity are important pillars for supporting the community. Particularly in the past year, the OCU student body has expressed concerns with the status of diversity and inclusion. Officials offered the campus community a way to make their voices heard through a diversity and inclusion survey, but only 17% of students participated in the evaluation. This seems like a missed opportunity for students to express their opinions. (See page 3 for more on the survey.) As a community, we students cannot demand change and then not do our part to enact it. When given the chance to share our thoughts on important issues, we should jump at the opportunity to begin the process of growth and transformation. Participation

in this survey is important, and, though it may seem insignificant, this is our chance to put some weight behind our words. The survey may not have been perfect, but it was a direct way to share opinions with university officials. We should take advantage of such opportunities. These surveys usually only take a few minutes, and it we must use those minutes wisely. Nothing comes from nothing. We cannot sit and wait for change; we must work to actively improve the campus and the world in the ways that we see fit. Students have the opportunity to create real improvements in diversity and inclusion on college campuses, and waiting for something to happen without working to encourage it will only cause frustration on both ends. This applies to any cause or social reform movement, whether it involves the campus directly or not. In order to have

Talk Back “What topics would you like to see addressed in a survey?”

an impact, students need to actively participate in surveys, elections and censuses. Now is the time the world needs action, and if we sit back and let the opportunity pass by, our we will never fulfill or beliefs in social change. Hopefully, officials will present the campus community with the opportunity to make their voices heard again, and when that time comes, we must use the opportunity to the fullest of our ability. It is not only our right, but our duty to improve the community, and empty words will not bring the university any closer to equality and tolerance for all. Participate in surveys that affect the community. Vote in elections. Start a petition for change. Reach out to leaders. Only then will this generation make an impact on the world.

“How much time people spend on their phone”

“The genres of shows that we do in the School of Theatre”

Alyssa Peters theatre and performance senior

Maddy Donatelli acting senior

“How university officials can be more active with students”

“Confidence after graduation - how OCU is preparing students for life after graduation”

Kaden Gray mass communications freshman

Tomi Vetter piano performance junior

“What local outreach our students engage in"

“What kind of food people like”

Andie SheppardMcDermott psychology sophomore

Eli Nash music theater freshman

Bieber’s new album “Changes” showcases more mature sound Justin Bieber? I haven’t heard that name in years! If I’m being honest, I’m not sure I wanted to, either. Once, in middle school, I slept over at a friend’s house, and she had every inch of her wall covered in posters of the teenage heart-throb (and yes, when I say every inch, I am including the surface area of the ceiling). Needless to say, I have never been a fan of “the Biebs.” I even intentionally avoided listening to his album until Isaac Sorell, acting junior, gave a Bieber impression at the last improv show and inspired me to open my heart and listen to the new album. Thanks Isaac. B i e b e r ’s n e w a l b u m , “Changes,” marks the end to a five-year drought. Although he’s been a featured artist on some peers’ singles, Bieber

hasn’t released an album since “Purpose” in 2015. Aside from getting married in 2018, Bieber has been out of the spotlight for a while. Despite the years away from producing music, the Billboard charts have welc o m e d Bi e b e r b a c k w i t h warm arms as if nothing had changed. “Changes” was released on Valentine’s Day and is Bieber’s fifth studio album. “Changes” quickly became his seventh album to snag the number one spot on Billboard’s Top 200 chart. Additionally, Bieber is the youngest artist to achieve seven number-one albums, knocking out the previous title-holder, Elvis Presley. No big deal. It’s crazy to think it’s been over ten years since “Baby” was played twice every hour

Francesca Iacovacci is a music theater junior from Clearwater, Fla. She loves zoodles, Jeopardy! and a good poop joke.

on the radio. Now, 26 years old and married, Bieber has found a more mature sound, or at least more mature than his previous works. Tiny steps, people. The first single released from the album was “Yummy.” I think there is situational irony at play in this title, as it is one of the most unappealing tracks on the album. The chorus of the song is, “Yeah, you got that yummy, yum / That yummy, yum / That yummy, yummy.” The song is about how his partner has

“that yummy,” but the music video depicts Bieber sitting with a middle-aged woman and a man at a dinner table. They’re at a fancy restaurant, and Bieber is clearly underdressed, in a pink sweatshirt to match his pink hair. The video was confusing regarding the message of the song, but I’ll admit it was interesting to watch. I also like to think about the fact the featured woman was paid to simply eat fries while Bieber sang to her. Remember when I said Bieber channels a more

The Two Popes: more than just two old, white, religious men talking I have already written a little bit about this movie in the review of my top five favorite movies of 2019, but I wanted to dedicate a full review to this movie, because it has had a massive impact on me. “The Two Popes” was directed by Fernando Meirelles and written by Anthony McCarten. The movie follows a fictional account of the interaction between Jorge Bergolio, soon to be Pope Francis, and Joseph Ratzinger, aka Pope Benedict XVI, as they discuss their differing views on the status of the Catholic Church and how the almost 2,000-year-old institution fits into modern times. This may have been my favorite movie of last year. I don’t think it was the best movie of last year, but I will 100% remember how I felt watching that movie for the first time. For some, I can understand how the premise of the movie might seem boring. After all, it is two old, white, religious men talking to each other about religion. Looking deeper into the movie, however, one will find a compelling narrative on the nature of progress and the subtle differences between compromise and change.

I'll be the first to admit my love for this movie may be the result of a bias. I am Catholic and have been since the day I was born, so seeing my faith, warts and all, accurately portrayed on screen gripped me. The portrayal of the reformist and traditionalist viewpoints in the Church felt so real. Also, seeing monumental moments like Benedict XVI resigning from the papacy and the election of Pope Francis from a different perspective was really cool. The movie itself was really well done. The cinematography was done in a similar style to a documentary, which grounded the film. The scenes carried a lot of weight because it seemed as though it were really happening. If I had to complain about the way it was shot, it would be the zooms. I really don’t like it when movies or TV shows have a zoom in them. I am usually okay with it when it is used for a comedic effect, such as in “The Office,” but when it is used in a drama, it’s hard for me to take it seriously. The editing of the movie is spectacular. Not only does it add to the documentary effect, but it keeps the movie engaging, especially during scenes that could

Editor-in-chief: Emily Wollenberg Copy Editor: Paul Dower Photo Editor: Clara Foster Community Manager: Jessica Vanek Web Editor: Luke Barrett Graphic Designer: Melissa Campbell Ad Director: Maddie Bowes

song is unlike anything I’ve ever heard from Bieber, and I really like it. Besides the easy-going feel of the song, another aspect that sets the track apart is the outro. Bieber speaks over the fading music, “People change, circumstances change / But God always remains the same.” The authenticity in this song makes up for the shortcomings of “Yummy.” Many of the songs on the album sound alike, but wellknown artists such as Quavo, Post Malone and Travis Scott add variety to the setlists. Bieber has never been my favorite, but this album surprised me, and I did enjoy listening to (half of ) it. If anything, I think Bieber is an artist who has clearly grown artistically since the beginning of his career.

Campus Calendar Calendar items must be received in the Walker Center Newsroom or via stupub@okcu.edu by noon Friday for inclusion in the following Wednesday issue.

Paul Dower is a film production sophomore from Tulsa, Okla. He likes squishy toys, hoodies and Stanley Kubrick.

THURSDAY OCU Brass Chamber Music Recital, 7:30 p.m., Petree Recital Hall, Kirkpatrick Fine Art Center Weekly Chapel Service, 1-2 p.m., Bishop W. Angie Smith Chapel “Eurydice,” 8 p.m., Black Box Theatre, Wanda L. Bass Music Center

be considered slow or boring. For example, there is a scene where they use news coverage of Benedict XVI’s election and put “Dancing Queen” by ABBA over the pre-election rituals. Even during the voting scene, the rhythmic editing portrays passage of time, intensity and the anxiety of the voting process just perfectly. The performances really sell the movie for me. When I saw ads for the movie, I thought it was an actual documentary because Jonathan Pryce, the actor who played Pope Francis, looks exactly like him. The performance goes deeper than just looks, however, as Pryce nails Francis’ mannerisms, humility and quiet charisma. Through Pryce’s performance, the audience understands why taking on the position of Pope would be such a struggle for him and how being a clergyman has affected his life in as many negative ways

THE CAMPUS March 4, 2020, Volume 113, Issue 20

mature voice in this album? Yeah… “Yummy” is an exception. Our first glimpse of the album is a song that is childish and completely lacks substance. Since this was the only song I had heard, I was very hesitant to listen to the rest of the setlist. I was surprised to find the rest of the album is, actually, pretty standard pop that doesn’t make me cringe. The title song of the album, “Changes,” is a slow, acoustic song about going through changes to become a better version of yourself. The lyrics in the pre-chorus read, “I just want to be the best of me / Even though sometimes I forget to breathe / So that I can be the best for you.” I love this selfless concept that loving yourself will, in turn, help you serve and love others better. The tone of this

Staff Writers: Madison Bailey MaKayla Baxter Josh Eliot Troy Freeman Francesca Iacovacci Maxwell McIntire Hope Melton Shelby O’Brien Hannah Prentice

as positive. Anthony Hopkins as Benedict XVI is phenomenal. The audience gets the sense that this is a man that is as rigid as a plank of wood. He does not compromise or change unless he believes it is the right thing to do. That being said, his change over the course of the movie is believable, and you understand why he decides to resign from the papacy, even though the full reasons are not completely or explicitly stated. I firmly believe this movie is one of the most impactful and important movies I have seen in a long time. It is a great reminder of how important it is to understand the other side and treat each other with respect, even though you may disagree with another person’s opinion or perspective. Please watch this movie; it is on Netflix, and I promise you it is worth it. “The Two Popes” gets two thumbs up from me.

Columnists: Paul Dower Francesca Iacovacci Hope Melton Luke Barrett Photographers: Hannah Campbell Jessica Casebeer Clara Foster Stephen Jackson Mackenzie Shaw

Sigma Tau Delta’s Trivia Night, 6-8:30 p.m., Great Hall, Tom and Brenda McDaniel University Center FRIDAY Baseball vs. Texas Wesleyan University, 4 p.m., Jim Wade Stadium “Eurydice,” 8 p.m., Black Box Theatre, Wanda L. Bass Music Center Let's Talk About Taxes!, 7:30 p.m., Draper Hall Lobby SATURDAY Baseball vs. Texas Wesleyan University, 1 and 3:30 p.m., Jim Wade Stadium “Eurydice,” 8-10 p.m., Black Box Theatre, Wanda L. Bass Music Center SUNDAY “Eurydice,” 2 p.m., Black Box Theatre, Wanda L. Bass Music Center Free Screening: “Mustang,” 2 p.m., OCU School of Visual Arts TUESDAY Baseball vs. Sterling College, 3 p.m., Jim Wade Stadium

The Campus has served the Oklahoma City University community since 1907. It is published Wednesdays during the academic year, with the exception of holidays and exam periods. The Student Publications staff welcomes unsolicited material and letters to the editor. All letters must be signed and include the writer’s phone number, address, major, and classification. The staff reserves the right to edit all letters. The staff also reserves the right to refuse letters without explanation. Letters can be sent online at mediaocu.com, emailed to stupub@okcu.edu or dropped off at the Newsroom in Suite 112 of Walker Center for Arts and Sciences. Submitted items may appear on MediaOCU and in the print edition. The first issue of The Campus is free. Each additional issue costs 25 cents. Contents copyright © Student Publications 2020. All rights reserved.

March 4, 2020

news

Hannah Campbell Student Publications

Blow them all away Above: The OCU Wind Philharmonic ensemble and Dr. Matthew Mailman, director of winds, stand at the end of their concert to accept the applause of the crowd. The concert was Feb. 27 at 7:30 p.m. in Margaret E. Petree Recital Hall in Kirkpatrick Fine Arts Center. Top Right: David Herrera, Eyoel Abera, and Paul Nguyen, music education freshmen, play trombone and bass trombone in the concert. Bottom Right: Zane Berglan, percussion freshman, plays the timpani during the Wind Philharmonic concert.

Sports Roundup: Feb. 27-March 1

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FEB. 27: Women’s and men’s basketball competed at Wayland Baptist University (Texas). The women’s team lost 50-65, and the men’s team lost 71-88. The baseball team scored a win against Bacone College 10-0 in Muskogee, Oklahoma. FEB. 28: The softball team played a double-header against Oklahoma Wesleyan University in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, winning the first game 13-1 and the second 13-4. The competitive pom team competed in the NAIA southwest qualifying championships, taking home the top spot with a score of 94.16.

Playing pitch-perfect

Clara Foster Student Publications

Noah Barks, junior infielder, sprints to first base in the Feb. 29 double-header against Bacone College. The Stars won 8-0.

FEB. 29: The competitive cheer team competed in the NAIA southwest qualifying championships, earning the top spot with a score of 86.01.

Women’s wrestling competed in the SAC championships in Plainview, Texas. The team got an overall score of 102.5, putting them in third place. Senior Rachel Watters and sophomore Nkechinyere Nwankwo were named all-SAC first team champions. Senior Marissa Gregoire, junior Raven Guidry, sophomore Destiny Lyng, and freshman Mattison Parker were named all-SAC second team runners-up. The baseball team competed in a double-header against Bacone at Jim Wade Stadium, winning the first game 8-0 and the second 18-10. The men’s and women’s basketball teams competed against Panhandle State University in Goodwell, Oklahoma. The men’s team won 100-80, and the women’s team won 76-49.

Diversity, inclusion survey reports poor turnout Shelby O’Brien

STAFF WRITER

The recent diversity survey that was sent out to students came back with reportedly poor results. Regina McManigell Grijalva, associate professor of English, said the results of the survey sent out by the diversity council Dec. 4 were considered poor because only 30% of faculty and 17% of students responded. Joey Croslin, vice president for human resources, said the council has not actually received the results from the survey yet. “All that we have received are the response rates, and we did hope for higher rates from students,” Croslin said. Amy Ayres, vice president for student affairs, said the response rates from our students were actually higher than other institutions. “We had a 17% response rate from OCU students, and the average from peer institutions was only 16%,” Ayres said. The diversity council is made up of mostly administrators who meet to discuss diversity on campus. Grijalva is a member of the policy and data committee, a committee made up of volunteers who meet and analyze the data the diversity council receives. Grijalva said the council decided to put together a survey to send out to students and faculty on campus, asking about their opinions on diversity. The diversity council decided to use an external company called Higher Education Data Sharing Consortium and use their Diversity and Equity Campus Climate Survey to collect data. “The thinking, having a third-party company do it, was really having the best intention, and that was because they didn’t want anyone to think that there was anything underhanded about the data collected,” Grijalva said.

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I think it's amazing that we are doing something; I just don't know if it's the best method to spend our money on. Dr. Regina McManigell Grijalva English associate professor

Grijalva said she had several faculty members approach her and say they were concerned because the questions were very personal and specific, and they thought they could be easily identified. “I had to assure them, because this is what I heard when I was at committee meetings, that the reason they had the external company was because they wanted people to know that everything was going to be reported generally. So, for example, they would just say like 20% of the people that answered the survey were above 40, and 30% of people were male or female, so that people doing the survey wouldn’t be identified,” Grijalva said. Grijalva has been an assessment report reader for nine years and said there are so many good resources on campus with trained faculty and staff, there might be a better, more efficient approach to surveying OCU on diversity. “I know there are lots of different ways that you can do studies of people’s perceptions of diversity, inclusion and equity on campus,” Grijalva said. “Let’s say 20% of our campus identifies as a minority, and you send out a survey to everybody, you’re going to still have 80% of the campus that is not diverse, and so you might not even get the answers from people who are minoritized.”

Grijalva said she thinks there are other methods that might better survey the campus such as studying specific focus groups or using faculty who are trained in research and know their survey group to create the survey. “I think it’s amazing that we are doing something; I just don’t know if it’s the best method to spend our money on,” Grijalva said. Croslin and Ayres are both members of the diversity council. “The diversity council identified engaging in a climate survey as one of our shorter term priorities that we could do reasonably soon to get some input on the perception on our campus community on diversity and inclusion on campus, perception of our policies and maybe any experiences that have been going on around campus,” Croslin said. Croslin said they also thought it was a good idea to do the survey to give the new vice president of diversity and inclusion a solid starting point. “We did have a conversation at our November council meeting about launching the survey and what the appropriate time frame would be for that survey, whether it would launch prior to the holidays or after the holidays,” Ayres said. Ayres said the council will not have all of the data back until the end of March. For those who did not take the survey, or would like to see the questions asked, reach out to Grijalva at ramcmanigell@ my.okcu.edu. For the editors, opinion on the survey, see the page 2 editorial.

SGA creates new position to ensure transparency Francesca Iacovacci

STAFF WRITER

Student Government Association recently created the new position of attorney general. Patricia Ashford, political science/philosophy junior, is serving as the first attorney general in SGA. Ashford was appointed by SGA President Trae Trousdale at the beginning of the spring semester. Ashford had been recommended to sit on the SGA executive board for the past two years. “My responsibility is making sure the SGA branches are operating in accordance with the constitution,” Ashford said. “I’ve wanted to be part of SGA for a while now, and this job is something I’m especially interested in since I’m a political science major.” Ashford says she uses the constitution to advise members of SGA, including the student body president. March 4, 2020

My responsibility is making sure the SGA branches are operating in accordance with the constitution. Patricia Ashford attorney general SGA

Trousdale said creating the new executive position was a result of many changes in SGA this past year. “Something on the backend of things students may not have seen is the entire executive cabinet has been working on redoing all of our governing documents,” Trousdale said. “Since I was inaugurated last April, we have a new constitution, new bylaws, new election rules, and new standing rules for SGA in all three executive, legislative and judicial branches. With that, there’s a lot of change to

monitor, so the executive board created the attorney general position to keep SGA in line with the updated version of the constitution.” Trousdale said the attorney general position promotes internal balance and accountability within SGA. “The attorney general is responsible for ensuring the SGA officers and branches are operating within their parameters outlined by the constitution,” Trousdale said. “They’re responsible for verifying the language of SGA constitutional

bylaw changes to ensure there is no conflict between governing documents. They also work with General Council Casey Ross to ensure SGA documents are in line with university practices, as well as work specifically with the student body president in forming executive orders and proclamations.” Trousdale said the position adds an extra voice to SGA that represents different students. “I think among students, this position has the ability to act as a counterbalance to SGA,” Trousdale said. “It ensures SGA is operating equally and fairly in everything we do.” Ashford also said adding another voice to the executive board advances communication. “I think it’s a good precedent to set for SGA,” Ashford said. “Even just one more person on board helps Student Government run as smoothly as possible.” Nick Atkins, music junior,

said the new attorney general position promotes effective communication. “It’ll be good to have more direct and more accurate communication between the student body, SGA and the employees,” Atkins said. Atkins also said the position will serve as a good buffer. “It’s good SGA is being held accountable,” Atkins said. “I know things have been a little rocky the past couple of years between the student body and SGA. I think this is SGA’s attempt of showing the students they’re being held accountable.” Trousdale said the new position also promotes transparency. “Something I personally value as SGA president and something we saw through the election process that students value is transparency,” Trousdale said. “We’ve tried to be transparent in budgeting practices this year and in our executive legislation practices by holding

open meetings.” Creating the attorney general position aids in professional development, said Trousdale. “One of SGA’s main goals is preparing students to be servant leaders in whatever environment they’re in. SGA needs to be striving for this in everything we do,” Trousdale said. Trousdale also said by ensuring changes made by SGA are in line with the university, the attorney general helps prevent conflict. “Something I think we’ve seen in the past that’s ineffective is when you have a head to head combative relationship between what SGA wants to abide by and what the university is abiding by,” Trousdale said. “We need to be operating within the parameters of OCU. This position adds to the continuity in administration.”

lifestyles

You must meet my wife Max Elkiss, music theater graduate, plays “Fredrik Egerman” in the Wanda L. Bass School of Music's spotlight musical, “A Little Night Music.”In this scene, he wakes up from a nap to get ready for an evening at the theater with his wife, “Anne Egerman.”Set in 1900 Sweden, the musical follows couples entangled in a web of romantic, sexual and familial affairs.

Stephen Jackson Student Publications

Flying high to victory

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Clara Foster Student Publications

The OCU Cheer team secured the crown in the NAIA Southwest Qualifying Group Competitive Cheerleading Championships on Feb. 29 in Abe Lemons Arena in Henry J. Freede Wellness and Activity Center. They achieved an overall score of 86.01. They will advance to the NAIA Competitive Cheerleading Championships March 13-14 in Davenport, Iowa.

Acting student directs feminist adaptation of Greek classic MaKayla Baxter

STAFF WRITER

Stephen Jackson Student Publications

I shall marry the Miller'sMackenzie Son Shaw

Student Publications

Victoria Wilson, music theater/vocal performance sophomore, plays “Petra,” in “A Little Night Music.” She sings the song, “The Miller’s Son,” about marrying different men and imagining a life with different outcomes. The musical performed Feb. 28-March 1 in Burg Theatre in Kirkpatrick Fine Arts Center.

The School of Theatre’s next Stage II production will put a twist on a classic Greek tragedy with an added feminist element. “Eur ydice,” written by Sarah Ruhl, retells the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice from Eurydice’s perspective, focusing on her struggle to decide whether to return to Earth or remain in the underworld. Kelsey Bray, acting junior, is the director of the show and says the play explores family and relationships. “This show, really, is the first version of the story to be told from Eurydice’s perspective,” Bray said. “She makes decisions for herself and decides her own fate.” Bray said she has wanted to direct this show for over three years. “I’ve wanted to direct this show since I first read it,” Bray said. “I was just so attracted to it. It’s such a simple story with such intricate details and beautiful, poetic language.” Bray said one major change

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from the original myth is the inclusion of Eurydice’s father, a character created by Ruhl. “ Ru h l w r o t e t h e p l a y while grieving the death of her father,” Bray said. “She decided to add Eurydice’s father as a main character who she reunites with in the underworld, and it causes a lot of internal conflict within her throughout the show.” Bray said this internal conflict adds more layers to the story. “I keep calling the show ‘Eurydice’s feminist manifesto,’” Bray said. “The decisions are truly up to her, especially considering the addition of her father and their healthy, dedicated relationship.” Bray said she is focusing the show around an ensemble. “Everyone’s involved in the entire show,” Bray said. “There’s lots of movement pieces, and even when someone’s not on stage, they are supporting offstage sounds or contributing some other way. I really wanted to make sure the final product is a true collaborative effort.” Bray said she has shaped the rehearsal process in a way that

It’s such a simple story with such intricate details and beautiful, poetic language. Kelsey Bray acting junior

ensures everyone has a voice. “I really value actors’ input,” Bray said. “Ever since the first day of rehearsals, I have laid out my interpretation in front of them, then asked them to give me their own, with their personal views and ideas. I basically just tried to imagine the way I would want to be treated as an actor in a rehearsal space and give them that. I think it has worked very well so far.” Olivia Laskin, acting junior and “Little Stone” in the play, said the rehearsal process has been smooth and collaborative. “Kelsey is very open to our ideas,” Laskin said. “If we find something we would like to explore or expand upon, she is super willing to let us try it out. Helping her bring her vision to life has been absolutely

incredible.” Laskin said she encourages students to see the show. “I think everyone should see it,” Laskin said. “It is such a special show that truly deserves to be seen. It’s such a fun, unique look on this story, and Kelsey has an absolutely beautiful vision for it. You won’t want to miss out.” “Eurydice” will be performed at 8 p.m. on March 5-7, and 2 p.m. on March 8 in the Black Box Theater in Wanda L. Bass Music Center. Tickets are $5 and may be purchased in advance through the ticket office in the Edith Kinney Gaylord Center, online, or by calling the ticket office at 405-208-5227.

SHINING STAR

Clara Luper scholar plans to start non-profit

Carrington: “I want to get a doctorate of psychology in clinical psych” Jessica Vanek

COMMUNITY MANAGER

Destini Carrington, psychology senior, is working to better herself and her community every day. Carrington studies psychology with a minor in child advocacy. The Clara Luper scholarship brought her to OCU. “For me, applying for the Luper scholarship was my opportunity to go to a private university pretty much for free, and that was a great opportunity for me,” Carrington said. “Coming from a low-socioeconomic area and being raised by a single mother, I knew that paying for me to go to college wasn’t an option. So throughout middle school and high school, I was training myself to be the best student I could be, so I could get scholarships and have a way for me to go to college.” Carrington said her minor in child advocacy has greatly benefitted her studies in psychology. “It’s surrounded around child abuse and neglect, so it gives the opportunity for lots of people to learn the warning signs—the triggers—and understanding how to deal with those things in the real world,” Carrington said. “It’s interesting to have that with psychology because a lot of times the issues that person is dealing with when they come to you stem from their childhood.” Since arriving at OCU, Carrington has been involved in multiple organizations on campus, including the President’s Leadership Class, New Student Orientation, Student Government Association and Black Student Association. Carrington said she climbed the ladder of the NSO and became a student professional while working beside Colbi Beam, former director of student engagement. “Spring semester of freshman year, I got involved in new student orientation, and I became a leader after that and worked my way up in the ranks and became a staff member,” she said. “After my first year being an NSO

March 4, 2020

My end goal is to open up my own non-profit counseling center in a low-income area. Destini Carrington psychology senior

leader, Colbi asked me if I wanted to be her StuPro for first year experience. I’m still the StuPro for first year experience now.” Carrington got involved with BSA her freshman year. She served as secretary before she became president this year. She also serves as the secretary of diversity and inclusion for SGA. Chris Richie, music theater sophomore and vice president of BSA, said Carrington makes a big impact on campus. “I love her so much. She has done so much for the Black Student Association and for the school in general. I see very bright things in her future,” Richie said. Carrington said one of her favorite projects came out of her job at first year experience. “Colbi allowed me to reshape what our Stars Week diversity dialogues look like, so I got to redo the programming for that and find people to do the sessions and make it more intentional for students,” she said. “From that, it’s becoming a diversity day for Stars Week.” Carrington said being at OCU has shown her the difference she can make in the community. “For me, I found my purpose here, knowing that making an impact whenever I can is very important. Even something small can affect someone in a way that changes their life,” she said. “It’s been evident this year that racism is still very much a thing, and that everyone reacts to it differently. I’ve learned that a lot of people don’t see it the way I see it, and a lot of people

forgive people and move on while we’re still dealing with the consequences of what someone else chose to do. Just knowing that this campus is a piece of the larger world and understanding that if we can make changes on this scale, then in the future we can possibly make changes on the larger scale.” Carrington said she has many ideas about what she’d like to do after graduation. “My end goal is to open up my own non-profit counseling center in a low-income area because there’s a taboo around mental health in a lot of low-income communities, and I want to be able to help stop the cycle by giving them a free way to fix their mental health,” she said. “I want to get a doctorate of psychology in clinical psych so I can open up my own practice and funnel money into my non-profit when needed.” Carrington said she hopes to study at Baylor University after taking a gap year and moving to San Antonio, Texas, with her sister. She plans to do internships, shadow professionals and even attend culinary school. Carrington said she would like to thank Kanika Brown, director of student services, for her support. “Kanika Brown has been a great influence on my life. If there’s one person who’s been there from start to finish, it’s her,” she said. “She always fights for us in the spaces where students can’t necessarily fight for themselves, and always keeps the black agenda with her and creates a space for us to be more successful.” Carrington said students must live in their purpose. “Once you find out your purpose, walk in it,” she said. “Understand the space you create for yourself is the space you will thrive in. Don’t depend on being successful in someone else’s spaces. If the space is not for you, create the space that is.”