Jan. 23, 2019 by The Wichitan

Jan. 23, 2019 | Midwestern State University | thewichitan.com | Your Campus. Your News. | Vol. 83 No. 15

PHOTO BY BRIDGET REILLY | THE WICHITAN

Among the options for sides with dinner at Mesquite Dining Hall is traditional Spanish rice. Jan 22.

PHOTOS BY ALANA EARLE | THE WICHITAN

Justin Thompson, athletic training senior listens to music while eating dinner. | Nick Sanders, business sophomore and Zack West, special education freshman load up on food after an evening workout.

CANAN FOOD SECURITY SCHOLARSHIP aids students

YERASLY DURAN REPORTERS

he Canan Food Security Program is offering food insecure students an opportunity to get meals in Mesquite Dining Hall or Mavericks Corner. As of January students are able to apply to the program and no longer have the burden of not knowing where their next meal will come from. Pat Canan, Wichita Falls businessman and scholarship donor, said, “There was actually, maybe a year ago, an article about food insecurity on campus and also across the state and the nation. So I started doing some research on organizations that study food insecurity at college campuses and the more I read the more I realize that it was probably a problem

Additional meal swipes.

“There were times where I didn’t eat as well as I should have. There were times when I wrote a check, knowing it was gonna bounce.”

at Midwestern like [it scholarship. Not just is] at other places.” based on scholarCanan was iniship as far as grades tially trying to do a but a true need for scholarship for the food security. They art department on were initially a little campus, however aftaken a back because ter talking to Steve they hadn’t really Hilton, associate prothought about that. fessor of Juanita and But the more they Ralph Harvey School researched the more of Visual Arts, the excited everyone got. STEVE HILTON ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR idea of a food scholIt kind of changed arship bloomed. from a scholarship “I had been doing [food insecurity] re- based on merit to a scholarship based on search and in the middle of the conversation need. We wanted to try to impact as many I asked [Steve Hilton and Martin Camacho] students as we could, not just one or two,” what they would think about a campus wide Canan said.

Granted each meal

Meal a day is given to the students.

As a college student, Hilton also struggled with wondering where his next meal would come from. Hilton said, “There were times where I didn’t eat as well as I should have. There were times when I wrote a check, knowing it was gonna bounce, that it was gonna cost me $10 extra for a bag of groceries. I was like much of these students, I worked 30-40 hours a week. I didn’t have any support from my family so it’s not any different than it is now. Ramen noodles. Mac and cheese. Generic mac and cheese was the food of choice because it was only a quarter for a box. If you ever bought Kraft mac and cheese you knew you were going uptown because it was always 33 cents a box.”

see SECURITY pg. 6

1/6

Wichitans face hunger every day.

2 | Jan. 23, 2019| RESTAURANT R E V I E W

S TAF F E DI T O R I A L

Food insecurity is being dealt with properly OUR VIEW: Food insecurity is a rarely talked about issue that affects a lot of college students. The Wichitan believes that the university is slowly combating this issue and doing it well.

aking sure that the issue is brought into the light is the first way we can make a change. When we asked students what they knew about food insecurity, many students lacked the basic knowledge and information on what food insecurity is. To build awareness is the first step to making a difference. Regardless of students’ lack of information on the topic, the university itself is taking a step forward to make sure students don’t have to go hungry. The first step being the Mustangs Pantry that started this past fall. Followed by the Canan Food Security scholarship that was put into place this January for students that need a helping hand when it comes to getting a meal. This scholarship will give students an initial ten extra meal swipes and Chartwells will be helping out by giving meals at-cost for only $5. Any student can apply and it is not academically based. It is solely determined by your need. Additional help can be negotiated. The Wichitan staff believes that no person or student should have to wonder where their next meal will come from. Being a student is already hard enough and having to starve to save a few bucks is a rough way to live. Parents always say you need to eat a healthy breakfast to study well, because you can’t focus without proper nutrition.

CORRECTIONS In a previous version of the Question of the week about Stampede week we did not credit Yerasly Duran. The Wichitan regrets this error. In a tweet Jan. 12 we stated that the men’s basketball team beat Cameron University. This was incorrect The Wichitan regrets this error.

PHOTO BY CHLOE PHILLIPS | THE WICHITAN

BBQ Chicken sandwich, chips and a chocolate cookie from Gidget’s Sandwich Shack.

Gidget’s: a simple sandwich shack T

o celebrate and kick off the spring semester, The Wichitan staff members decided to have lunch together after staff training. Yet, there was a dilemma: where to eat? We wanted to eat off campus but were not sure where to dine at. After a suggestion from Bridget Reilly, sociology and criminal justice senior Gidget’s Sandwich Shack was Chloe the clear winner. Bridget raved about the food Phillips choices and said we should eat there. Located on the Corner of 7th & Ohio (701 Ohio Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76309), the Sandwich shack gives off a homey and casual vibe. Gidget’s Sandwich Shack serves typical sandwich shop staples like soups, salads, chips and even smoothies. I ordered the BBQ Chicken sandwich, and a black cherry Italian cream soda, the total coming out to $10.50 plus tax (Full sandwich $8.25, Italian cream soda $2.25). My sandwich came with chips, a cookie, and one pickle spear.

Everything tasted fresh and I felt satisfied with my meal. The workers were friendly and picked up after us. However, there were issues dealing with payment and allergy concerns. We did not realize Gidget’s only accepted cash payments until we walked in, debit cards in hand. This was an inconvenience for staff members who did not have enough money, if they had any money at all, in cash. Because of this issue, several staff members had to pay for others’ meals. While I enjoyed the cookie with my meal, the cookie was not chosen by me, it was randomly chosen by the workers. Because of this, I initially felt hesitant to eat the random cookie that came with my meal because I am allergic to cashews. Thankfully, I did not have an allergic reaction but I suggest the customers should chose the cookie if there will be nuts in it. Overall, with my complaints aside, Gidget’s Sandwich Shack is a great place with affordable prices and I would eat there again. However, I’m going to rate the sandwich shop three out of five stars because of the limited payment options.

GIDGET’S IS OPEN MONDAY-F R I DAY 8 : 3 0 A . M . - 2 : 0 0 P. M .

wichitan Vol. 83 | No. 15

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EDITORS: Alyssa Mitchell, Chloe Phillips,

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ISSUE STAFF: Madison Davis, Sharome Burton, Angel Ukwitegyetse, Alana Earle, Paige Champagne, Yerasly Duran, Mica Victorian

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ADVISER: Bradley Wilson

Opinions expressed in The Wichitan do not necessarily reflect those of the students, staff, faculty, administration or Board of Regents of Midwestern State University. The Wichitan welcomes letters of opinion from students, faculty and staff submitted by the Friday before intended publication. Letters should be brief (250 words or fewer) and without abusive language or personal attacks. Letters must be typed and signed by the writer and include a email address, telephone number and address.

| Jan. 23, 2019 | 3 African-American art and literature course welcomes diversity

MOVIE REVIEW

MADISON DAVIS REPORTER

Stephan James and KiKi Layne in If Beale Street Could Talk (2018)

PHOTO CURTESY BY IMBD

‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ speaks in the silences I

n a competitive year at the Academy Awards, several movies seem to be a shooin for nominations. Barry Jenkins’s newest film “If Beale Street Could Talk” is sure to win some awards this spring. Jenkins, known for his award-winning film “Moonlight” (the same “Moonlight” that was at the center of the wild Oscars mix up a few Brian years ago), returns to the cultural sphere with Lang his new film based on James Baldwin’s classic 1974 novel of the same name. “If Beale Street Could Talk” revolves around two families living in 1970’s Harlem, both united and estranged by their children. Quiet artist Alonzo, lovingly called “Fonny” (Stephan James), and his fiancée and childhood best friend Tish ( Kiki Layne) are expecting a baby. When Fonny is imprisoned on charges of rape, the couple’s bonds are stretched to their breaking point and the flawed justice system is pulled into sharp relief. Through it all, Tish carries on, determined for justice and the drive to be reunited with her love. “Beale Street” is a quiet, pensive film that’s okay with not being everyone’s cup of tea. The story line jumps back and forth through flashbacks, juxtaposing the young couple’s blooming love with their forced separation in a moving and effective way. It’s a powerful story of first love and justice that feels surprisingly modern and relevant today. Visually, “Beale Street” is a masterpiece. Once again, Jenkins uses bright, saturated colors as tacit characters. Vibrant yellows, blues, and greens glow throughout the film, symbolizing Tish, Fonny and their love for each other. The film is in-

fused with a warm hue that makes it feel like a distant memory. It’s as if the sharp, hard edges of the story have been softened and worn away with time, leaving a peaceful memory behind. Jenkins finds beauty in the little moments, focusing on a bright red umbrella or a cloud of blue cigarette smoke. He zooms in on the protagonists’ faces, their eyes filling the screen with complex emotion. The audience feels as close and intimate with the couple as Tish and Fonny must feel with each other, making the emotional connection to the film only stronger. While the dialogue of this film is fantastic, the story is better told in the silences. Regina King shines in a highly buzzed about role as Tish’s mother Sharon. King acts with a fiery passion and her character’s maternal love will make your heart ache. She’s a sure contender for Best Actress at the Oscars this spring. KiKi Layne is a vision in her feature film debut. Her voiceovers are heartfelt and honest and her acting feels genuine. Her steadfast love for Fonny and determination to see true justice carried out propels the film through its quiet moments and keeps the plot moving forward. Her partner, is a well of quiet emotions. His eyes tell more than his speech and reflect Fonny’s love, patience, anger and bravery wordlessly. He’s seen mostly in flashbacks, but his presence is palpable even while imprisoned. “If Beale Street Could Talk” is a movie made with love that centers around love itself. It’s overflowing with gorgeous visuals and a powerful story that cements Barry Jenkins into the pantheon of auteur directors (a director who is seen as the author of the movie). Don’t miss this wonderful, award-winning film.

yler M. Williams, assistant professor of humanities is teaching an African-American Art and Literature course that will analyze the upbringing of literary works that give insight to political battles from the perspective of African Americans dating back to 1945. “One of the results of a recent campus climate survey was that students of color said they don’t feel as though there are a lot of courses that are offered that are reflective of their own experiences,” Williams said. “It’s often the case that most universities have courses like this on the books.” Williams said the humanities program offers a special topics course; with content at the discretion of the professor. Last year, Williams taught the special topics course over literature that stemmed from the Holocaust. Williams chose African-American Art and Literature, a topic that aligns with his own interests. “For me, since my own research interests are largely in this relationship between literature and politics within an American context, that largely drives me toward an interest in African-American literature, but those interests I think are applicable to a variety of literatures. These are the sort of things that people like Richard Wright, James Baldwin, Claudia Rankine and Toni Morrison, people that we’re reading in the class, are writing about today,” Williams said. Lane Riggs, english senior who is enrolled in the course, said she often finds herself drawn to experiences that broaden her views on other cultures and ways of life. “It’s important to take classes like African American Art and Literature, so that you can better understand and celebrate minorities,” Riggs said. “Similarly, I think branching out and taking philosophy or humanities classes is worthwhile. As a liberal arts college, I believe these kinds of classes serve to create a complete curriculum.” Lexi Murphy, English senior, has taken some of Williams’s LANE RIGGS classes in the past and is also enENGLISH, SENIOR rolled in the course. “I’ve had the privilege to have been enrolled prior in Dr. Williams’s 19th-20th centuries course, he is truly an educated professor who is apt to challenge and work alongside his students,” Murphy said. “I’m pretty sure there hasn’t been a course of this nature offered on campus and I believe it ought to be a reoccurring course.” Williams said based on success and demand, the course has the potential to become a consistent course over the semesters to come. “Even though this course is just one example of a course being devoted entirely to African American Art

“As a liberal arts college, I believe these kinds of classes serve to create a complete curriculum.”

see HUMANITIES pg. 7

4 | Jan. 23, 2019| A DAY IN THE LIFE

CHIOMA ONYEKERE

‘I try to do that for myself to achieve the results that I want’ ANGEL CLARA UKWITEGYETSE REPORTER

he eldest of six children, Nigerian born Chioma Onyekere began her college career at Midwestern State in the fall of 2014. She is currently a third semester senior pursuing a degree in physical therapy after changing her major from biology last year. She normally starts her days off early and prefers the comfort of a consistent schedule during the semester. “This semester, most of my mornings begin at 8 a.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays they end at 5 p.m., and the other days go until 1 p.m. then I have the rest of the day to do my assignments or read my books because I don’t have a job so it’s just school that I have to [focus on],” she said. Amongst her peers, Onyekere is revered for her warm personality and superb culinary skills. Her roommate Adanna Okoye, geology senior, had this to say about her long time friend. “Chioma gives good advice; in fact, she has the mind of an owl. Her perspective of both the world and her personal environment are very interesting. I just love the way her brain works.” As a seasoned mustang, she has experienced the trial and error process of figuring out which study habits work best for her. “One thing that didn’t work [for me] was

saying I will wake up at 4 a.m. to study because apparently, according to some studies, it is better for you to wake up in the morning to study. I would end up sleeping until it’s right before my classes and then I hadn’t studied for that day. That’s what I did for an entire semester, trying to do the whole morning thing, and that semester was just bad.” Instead, she focused on what works for her. “I try to pay more attention in class because I understand more when I am in class and then I just need like an hour or two to study each subject depending on the topic that was covered that day. So lets say it’s a 50 minute class, I would have to take another hour or two to cover that page or the two pages I had taken notes on. Sometimes I combine [it] with textbooks but I mostly read my notes because I try to take really good notes or just record the lecture and listen to it three or four times and that’s it.” Having spent the past four years at Midwestern, Onyekere found that participating in campus life is another valuable part of the college experience. She has done so by being an active member of the African Students Organization as well as making time to volunteer within her community. “When I was a freshman,” Onyekere said, “I just thought that going to college was just going to class, coming back home, studying and making sure you bring [home] good grades for your parents but with time, I realized the

accuracy of the statement, ‘pass through the school, don’t let it pass through you.’ So I decided to become more involved. I do some volunteer work with the Catholic Campus Center, I try to attend some events put on by the college, and attend different seminars [hosted] by my department. So [It has] been better than my first year when I only went to class. I try to attend more college based events that are not really school related.” She also values time for self care and can say it has played a big part in her academic success from the start. “I think the most important part of my week is Sunday because honestly, I get to go to church and it’s my chill day. I don’t have to do anything [because] that’s a day I set aside for myself, its when I kind of recover from all the stress of the week so I take Sunday to be very important,” Onyekere said. Like most students, Onyekere also had to learn to stay motivated as the semester and the years moseyed along. She says her family and stories of others making it through their own trials help her remain focused. “I have to remember that I am the first born... and that my dad is basically the sole provider or the family. It [would] be stupid if I [came] all this way to remain the same person that I was when I left. So everyday I try to remind myself that no matter what, I have five people and [others] who are probably looking up to me and I have to do better.” Onyekere

said, “I have a bunch of books in my room and if the words in my head are not enough, I pick up one of them and read to see how other people may have struggled but still put things into perspective for themselves and I try to do that for myself to achieve the results that I want. Moving forward, Onyekere foresees her time at Midwestern being a launching pad for a successful career in physical therapy. “After here, I will be applying to physical therapy school. I am looking at one in Nebraska and one in Houston. Basically, that will be to start next year because they do not do spring admissions. So when I go there, I will be done in three years and I hope to get a job here in the states but if not I will probably be going back home. But basically the job entails helping people rehabilitate from accidents and help them come back to their normal old selves, or help them make the transition from being bed-ridden to using [their bodies].” Onyekere has one notable key to success that she believes all her peers would not regret putting into practice. You’ve heard it before and will hear it time and time again. Onyekere said, “Do not procrastinate. If you can do something now, just do it. Do not wait until tomorrow.”

| Jan. 23, 2019 | 5

PHOTOS BY ANGEL CLARA UKWITEGYETSE | THE WICHITAN

Cameron Carter, radiology freshman, works on her poster for the Unity Walk in memory of Dr. King in the CSC. | Jose Torres, education junior, Christopher Cruz, theatre junior, and Jesse Jones, management information systems junior, lead the Unity Walk through the campus. | Dr. Keith Lamb, Vice President for Student Affairs, Anissia Jones, exercise physiology senior, Taylor Barrnett, mass communication senior and Dr. Syreeta Green, director of the office of equity, inclusion and multicultural affairs take part in the Unity Walk around campus.

Unity Walk and wreath laying kicks off Dream Week ANGEL CLARA UKWITEGYETSE REPORTER

he first ever campus-wide unity walk began and ended at the campus’ historical marker in memory of Dr. King. Laid in February of 1991 at the Sunwatcher Plaza, it reads, “With this faith we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood. - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, August 1963.” “The goal of the unity walk this year was to get more students involved and get people aware.” said Jamilah Kangudja, management information systems senior and office of equity, inclusion and multicultural affairs student ambassador. The unity walk and wreath laying was the first in a series of events being held for Dream Week, hosted by the Cross Cultural Council. The effort was initiated through a conversation with the Student Government Association and other student leaders who wanted to project a message of

unity and inclusion on campus. According to Syreeta Greene, director of equity, inclusion and multicultural affairs, it is also in response to some of the leaflets that were found last semester and over the last few years that represent hate messages and organizations that support those type of messages. “This is a collaborative effort...” Greene said, “this unity walk is just an opportunity to exercise publicly espousing our values as an institution [and] as members of this community, as well as making sure that we are working towards building a more inclusive campus.” Similarly, many of the students participating in the unity walk found it especially necessary to be present and vocal about Dr. King’s legacy given today’s climate. Ryan Kelly, political science freshman said, “I joined the unity walk just due to the fact that today a lot of things are swept under the rug and you know, we are going through

a big thing with the government shut down right now with Trump wanting to build a wall. We have to understand that there are bigger forces at play and we have to include everybody in what we [consider] inclusion here in America.“ This campus is, in some ways, is a reflection of the dream of equality held by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. seeing as nearly 47 percent of MSU students are non-white with people from 44 states and 54 foreign countries. “MSU is a very diverse campus, we have people [here] from all different walks of life, different countries and different regions,” said SGA Vice President and criminal justice senior, Preston Busby. “Part of Dr. Martin Luther King’s vision was equality and unity for all so I think for us... not just physically showing that but making conscious efforts to exhibit that really speaks volumes for the campus and the students here.” Although the crowd may have been thin,

students like Jernelle Jon Baptist, management information systems senior, found this to be a proud mustang moment. “I think it’s important to have [this] on campus, especially [here] where a lot of African-American students may sometimes find it hard [to fit] in because they are still the minority. And also seeing that dream week has certain organizations involved in it, they can also find a way to connect on campus and feel more at home at MSU,” said Baptist. Dr. King’s message of activism and unity is not completely lost on the student body and will continue to be honored on campus throughout the rest of Dream Week. The Cross Cultural Council will be hosting the “Unity Talk Back” today, Jan. 23, 2019 at 7:30 p.m.in Bea Wood 131 and conclude with the “Unity in Fellowship Game Night” on Jan. 24 at 8 p.m. in Bea Wood 131.

ATTENDEE COMMENTS TAYLOR BARNETT, MASS COMMUNICATION SENIOR | “I think it’s a day not only to remember all that he did but to remember [the] dreams and goals that he had for us, for the community, and [for] the world really and try to look at it and apply it to our lives right now... make that change that he wanted to see in the world to make sure that that growth continues.” SYREETA GREENE, OFFICE OF EQUITY, INCLUSION AND MULTICULTURAL AFFAIRS DIRECTOR| “For me personally, it is an opportunity to remember the activism and his call to justice for the many injustices and inequalities that were being experienced not just by African Americans but

other groups around this country. I wholeheartedly believe that his message was powerful and that it is still relevant and valid today.” CAMERON CARTER, RADIOLOGY FRESHMAN | “MLK was an amazing man. I love learning about my history and my culture especially being an African American woman. He had such a great impact on our society and he did so many amazing things and helped everyone. He has helped so many people and they don’t even really think about him on an every day basis but I have to be thankful and think about him every single day because he’s made such a great impact.”

RYAN KELLY, POLITICAL SCIENCE FRESHMAN | “The significance of Martin Luther King day for me, goes back to my grandpa who was a civil rights activist in Waco, Texas and actually marched with Dr. King in DC. He fought in World War II... lived a long life and I feel like he left a legacy for his great grand kids. They [both] left a legacy behind that I feel like I have to keep pushing forward. The work still isn’t done and it won’t [ever] be done. You’ve just got to keep working.” JERNELLE JON BAPTIST, MISSION INFORMATION SYSTEMS SENIOR | “For me personally because I’m not from America, I’m actually from the Caribbean, the importance of Martin Luther

King Jr. [day] is basically knowing that he fought for a dream and as an international student it shows me that I too can fight for my dreams and I too can try my best to pursue my dreams here at Midwestern. I like the whole connection between MKL day and Midwestern and what we are doing here.” PRESTON BUSBY, CRIMINAL JUSTICE SENIOR | “This day means acknowledging a man who was selfless, who put his own needs behind and put a community’s needs, what people needed in front. He was willing to risk his life and put his life on hold for others.”

6 | Jan. 23, 2019| QUESTION OF T HE WE E K

from SECURITY pg. 1

Hilton said he has seen food insecurity problems in his students and said he hopes that they will get the help they need through the new program. “I see students come to class hungry. They might only have enough money for lunch for a candy bar from the snack machine. They’re not eating nutritiously but they can afford a bag of chips for a dollar. I see what they eat for breakfast, for lunch and for dinner because I’m in the studio a lot. I can’t see how they’re doing their best work if they’re hungry,” Hilton said. Students can apply anytime to the program via MustangsLink. Keith Lamb, vice president of student affairs and enrollment manCYNTHIA CUMMINGS agement, said, “Right SPECIAL EVENTS COORDINATOR now since the program is so new, there are two of us and we typically review them together. It’s myself and my assistant Laura Salazar. When an application comes in through MustangsLink Laura will get the initial financial aid information for us . . . Laura and I will sit down and kinda go over everything and make an initial decision on, Does this look like we STUDENT BODY DEFINES WHAT THEY THINK FOOD INSECURITY IS, AND DISCUSS HOW need to go ahead and extend some meals and get them to financial aid counseling? Then we THEY BELIEVE MSU CAN HELP. just go from there.” REPORTER| ALANA EARLE If it’s determined that the student is food insecure, they are given 10 additional meal ALEX ESPY, EDUCATION ELEMENTARY TEACHING FRESHMAN| “I guess RJ LOPEZ, FINANCE SENIOR| “It sucks that food insecurity is still a thing swipes to use at Maverick’s Corner or the Meschoosing between school and food shouldn’t be an option. I feel like you but I think MSU is starting to make a few steps in the right direction, with quite Dining Hall. An additional appointment should have both. You can’t really have a proper education without food. the students help.” is set up with a financial aid counselor to deI think [the pantry] is really cool because some people don’t have access termine the amount of any further assistance JOSE TORRES, BILINGUAL EDUCATION JUNIOR | “I feel like food insethat the student needs. The students will reto as much money. I think that’s really cool that Midwestern has that.” ceive other forms of financial aid as well, decurity shouldn’t be a thing, especially because food is a necessity. I feel pending on their situation. ASHLEY GONZALES, RESPIRATORY CARE SOPHOMORE| “I also know like [food] should be available for everyone. MSU is taking a few steps in The meals provided via the program are that BSM gives out free meals on Wednesday and I know that helps a lot. the right direction [such as] the food pantry [and the scholarship.] through Chartwells food service, the comI think Mustangs for Christ also does free meals. I feel that they should pany will not be profiting from the program. MARIO RAMIREZ, INTERIM DIRECTOR OF STUDENT INVOLVEMENT | “I advertise more for students who are struggling.” They have decided to offer the meals at-cost, think it is hard for individuals who don’t have access to resources to meaning each meal granted will only be $5. DELMA DELGADO, SOCIAL WORK JUNIOR| “I think the pantry is a good find [or think about] where their next meal will come from. If you are Lamb said he hopes to help as many stuidea but I don’t like the fact that they limit their resources and also they distracted on when your next meal is going to be or where you are going dents as possible since the meal swipes will be only limit it to certain amounts of students. It would help out with a lot to eat for the next hour, you are probably not going to be concentrated cheaper than Chartwells meal plans. of students that don’t like the food that is coming out. I don’t think they on your academics. “ The students that receive aid from this proshould limit it to certain amount of students.” gram do not have to be stricken by traumatic EMILY RAMIREZ, PSYCHOLOGY JUNIOR | “DARS actually pays for my situations, anyone that doesn’t have enough KYLA BUDGEWATER, ACCOUNTING SOPHOMORE| “I was told [food inmeals. The first semester I didn’t have DARS and it was a struggle. I can’t money in their budget for food can benefit security] means you don’t know where your next meal may come from. drive so I can’t go get food and I can’t carry my food around. I would have from this program. MSU can help with that because these meals plans are very high and to be spending like $10 a day.” Cynthia Cummings, special events coordifor some of us who don’t get as much financial aid we have to pay out of nator, said, “I’m really pleased with the proERIC KOGER, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF THEATRE | “I can definitely pocket for them and we can’t afford that.” gram and I’m proud to be an MSU employee, imagine that students that are needing a little extra assistance, much because we do care about our students. And JAMILAH WILLIAMS, EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY SENIOR| “Food insecurity like scholarships, will be benefiting from this opportunity. Given the size you know in the long run, they are probably shouldn’t be a thing, no one should go to sleep on an empty stomach.” of it maybe this is something that will continue over time.” going to be the leaders of our community so we need to help them along the way so they can focus on schoolwork and not worry about being hungry.” Additional reporting by Karen Earle and Paige Champagne

What is food insecurity; how can MSU help?

“I’m really pleased with the program and I’m proud to be an MSU employee”

| Jan. 23, 2019 | 7 from HUMANITIES pg. 3 and Literature,” Williams said, “my colleagues in the English department who teach American literature surveys will also include African American writing on it, so it’s not that these texts are nonexistent on campus, it’s just that there hasn’t yet been the opportunity for a strictly focused course.” Michaelann Greenfield biology senior is an African American, first generation student whose family originates from Liberia. She said she strives to stay true to Liberian culture. “[This course] can help increase the importance of diversity here on campus,” Greenfield said. “We can visually see how [this school] is more diverse, so that means we should adjust to such increase in diversity. I believe that we can do the same if the effort was made not only from faculty but from TYLER M. WILLIAMS students as well.” ASSISTANT PROFESSOR Williams said the target demographic for this course isn’t just African Americans, but people who are interested in learning about a culture that played a part in building America. “Absolutely anybody who cares to take the time to think about what makes Americans, American, would have an interest in this class regardless of racial or ethnic background and also more abstractly or philosophically anybody who is interested in this peculiar relationship between art and society,” Williams said. “Regardless of whether it’s because the literature that we’re reading speaks to you personally in terms of who you are and where you’re from or whether its because you just have an interest in diversifying your relationship to literature or if it’s because your interest in conceptual problems or if you just happen to be interested in taking a class where we also talk about Beyoncé and Kendrick Lamar.” Williams emphasized that the African American Art and Literature course is not serving as a platform for political based agendas, but to expand campus diversity and to educate students of a culture that has a lot to offer. “Other than encouraging as many people as possible to enroll in the class or to tell their friends about it, I would emphasize for anybody that the existence of the course is not agenda driven, there’s no political point that we’re trying to make or anything like that,” Williams said. “Other than the fact that our understanding of ourselves as a culture is a result of learning from people that aren’t like us necessarily and then also using the opportunity to really clarify to people that are like us, what we mean and what we think. I think that the more diverse our class is, the more broad and effective the class as a whole can be. It’s open to people of any discipline across the college, it’s open as an elective, so I’d encourage as many people as possible to take it.”

“I think that the more diverse our class is, the more broad and effective the class as a whole can be.”

PHOTO BY MICA VICTORIAN | THE WICHITAN

Thorpe Griner speaks to professor and Juanita Harvey Art Gallery director, Gary Goldberg at the Arts Council Center on Jan. 17.

Arts Council Center gives local artists chance to show their work MICA VICTORIAN REPORTER

he Arts Council Center on 1300 Lamar St. in Wichita Falls is where amateur and professional artists can display their work. It’s also where people in the community can view, buy, and meet upcoming artists. Chief executive Carol Sales believes that the Arts Council Center is the heart of Wichita Falls, but because it is a non-profit center it does not have funds for advertising. “It is great to get people in the community to come together, people just do not realize what all the center offers.” Sales said. MSU alumnus Thorpe Griner held an Invisible Light exhibition of infrared photographs on Jan 17. “Wichita Falls felt like I was trapped in a bubble, so I moved once I graduated,” said Griner. “I took photography as a minor in college and fell in love with it.” Griner graduated with a degree in mass communication but said there was not much money being made in the field after he graduated. Although, he chooses to work in the computer field he can use what he has learned in photography

combined with his knowledge of computers to create images bathed in lavish hues of purple, turquoise, blue, pink, black and white. When asked how he was able to create vibrant colors in his landscapes, he said, “I converted my digital camera to be able to capture the photos using a method called Project IR.” Griner captures beautifully colorized landscapes while using Project IR and can get exposure at anytime of the day. The Arts Council Center hosts many functions at the same time. People that attended for another purpose also had the opportunity to view Griner’s art. Deshaun Brown, a junior at Hershey High School attended Griner’s art exhibition with his art teacher. Brown said, “my art teacher wanted me to know how an art exhibition works”. Facilities manager, Daniela Owens, oversees the centers websites and publications. Owens said, “I am always happy to get the word out to the community if there is a function at the center, it is great when folks come out.”

THE C E N T E R I S OPEN: MONDAY-FRIDAY 9 A.M. – 5 P.M. ON SATU R D AY 1 0 AM - 4 P.M. AND SUNDAYS 12:30 – 4 P.M.

8 | Jan. 23, 2019| WOMEN’S TENNIS

PHOTOS BY SHAROME BURTON | THE WICHITAN

Emilija Segetlija, finance junior strikes overhand during pre-season practice on Jan 21. | Coach Scott Linn addresses players during pre-season practice session. | Maddy Coffman, biology senior strikes forehand.

Mustangs confident in preparation as women’s tennis season serves-off this week SHAROME BURTON REPORTER

omen’s tennis will be served their first challenge of the 2019 Spring season on Friday when they travel to Lubbock, Texas to face University of Wyoming in their first set of exhibition matches. The Mustangs will enter the season as the reigning Lone Star Conference Champions – in search of their third straight title, and the number 15 ranked team in the Oracle/ Intercollegiate Tennis Association Top 25 ranking of National Collegiate Athletic Association Division Two teams. The team is approaching the season and their title defense is in the right frame of mind, according to head tennis coach, Scott Linn. “We’ve done a better job this year making sure our mindset in training is where it needs to be so we can continue to improve throughout a practice – that’s a good sign.” said Linn. The eight-member women’s roster will have a packed schedule of singles and doubles matches leading up to the LSC Championships in May, including 14 road trips. The

Mustangs and their rivals on the court will also have to contend with a change in the points system for the upcoming season – wins in doubles matches are now effectively worth one-sixth of the points compared to a victory in the singles. “The scoring format in college and Division Two tennis has changed – it’s now where doubles is not worth as much as singles. The scoring is shortened so you have to move forward a bit more, and be comfortable with the different situations,” said Linn. He said training has shifted accordingly to adapt to the new conditions. “The women are doing a good job of making that transition,” said Linn, “we played and practiced doubles today but most of our practices have been singles because that’s going to be where most of the weight of the match is on,” explained the Mustangs head coach. In addition to a conference championship and a strong 19-7 record which led to a seventh straight postseason appearance, the Mustangs are also riding high on confidence from the performance of the doubles pair of Ashley Ramirez, marketing junior and Maddy Coffman, biology senior, last fall.

The pair which copped All-American honors and a number 22 rank in the nation, will be returning for another season. “They returned this year and hopefully they will be playing doubles together and build on the experience they had last year - gotta work to be a great doubles team and that’s what they’re consistently doing,” said Linn. Ramirez said they have challenged themselves to improve on their start to the season this spring. “Last year we didn’t prepare as well as we should have so we had a very slow start but this year we started off well, everyone was back here hitting so I think we’re really ready for this week and our first match,” said Ramirez. Coffman challenged her team not to settle on last year’s accomplishments. “I think we can do better,” said Coffman, who is also ranked 16th nationally in singles. “We don’t want to settle with what we did last season because we still have a lot to do so we just keep working hard and moving forward.” She says the team has a chance to make a statement on Friday, when they make their

season debut against higher-ranked Wyoming. “We just want to come out strong. I know we’re playing a bigger [Division One] team so it’s gonna be really good competition so we’re gonna try to keep our minds clear until then,” said Coffman. Coach Linn highlighted the depth of skill within the entire roster, which includes players from as far as Serbia, France and Australia. “We’re deeper this year. We have more strength in singles than we’ve had in a long time so that’s exciting as well,” said Linn. Linn added that home crowd support could make a difference this semester, with an increased number of games set for the MSU Tennis Center. “We’ve been top 25 in the nation for the past six years – male and female – play with passion, they play with fight and they’re fun to watch. They’re representing the student body – the better we do, the better it represents our university so the more support we get, the better we play,” said Linn.

W O M E N ’ S TENNIS WILL BEGIN THEIR SEASON FRIDAY JA N. 2 5 A G A I NS T WY OM I NG I N L U B B O CK , TX AT 4 P.M . THE FIRST HOME GAME IS SE T F O R F E B. 1 6 A G A I NS T N O RTHEASTERN STATE UNIVERSITY AT THE MSU T E NNI S C E NT E R .