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The Ranger is an independent student publication. Material published in The Ranger does not necessarily reflect the views of Amarillo College administrators or employees.
In 2022, there have been 406 mass shootings in the United States as of Aug. 8, according to the Gun Violence Archive a nonprofit corporation whose goal is to provide public access to information about gun-related violence in the United States. In schools across the country, officials are examining the precautions in place to protect students and staff.
“I want the AC family to know that you’re partners with us, we’re in this together and we need their help,” Scott Acker, chief of the Amarillo College Police Department, said. “We can’t be everywhere at all times so if you see something you need to call us.”
Some AC students say they are feeling the effects of rising gun violence in schools directly. “Working in education, there have been several instances where my kids have been worried about someone with a gun coming on campus and harming them and that’s hard to hear,” Justace Smithson, an education major, said. “It’s scary and it’s hard to explain to 10-year-olds that I will do my best to make sure they won’t get hurt when I know there’s not that much I can do to keep them safe,” she said.
In 2017, Texas implemented a campus carry law that allows licensed students and staff to carry concealed firearms on campus except for a few prohibited areas like campus child care centers and the Amarillo Museum of Art. The policy does not apply to rifles or unsecured handguns. “If you see somebody walking around with a rifle or a handgun out
on campus, I need people to call us and let us know about them,” Acker said.
ACPD offers active shooter training to facul ty, staff and students. “I’m going to approach the AC president’s cabinet about making active shooter training mandatory for ev erybody,” Acker said. Ad ditionally, ACPD offers de partment-specific active shooter training to AC staff.
Some AC employees are putting their own precautions in place.
“At FM90 we are up grading older locks and doors to ensure students are safe while they’re onair and using production rooms,” Amy Presley, FM90 program di rector said. “We’re also adding locks to some preexisting doors to limit access to anyone who isn’t re quired in those areas.”
However, ACPD’s role does extend beyond protecting students from violent crimes.
“We’re going to be vis ible, more approachable and have a little more compassion,” Officer Morice Jackson, ACPD’s community relations of ficer, said. “Some people are scared to ask questions to the police and that’s unheard of. Our job is to serve,” he said.
Officers are focused on proactively preventing crime. There are ACPD officers walking around campus checking parking lots and common areas for suspicious activity, according to Acker. Additionally, officers are available to walk students to and from their cars if they feel uncomfortable for any reason. They are also able to unlock and jump-start cars.
effectively communicate with emergency services to get the help they need as quickly as possible. “Be mindful of your surroundings,” he said.
While officials are focused on protecting students from physical harm, students’ mental health is also a focus. “I would encourage individuals that have difficulty managing reactions to tragedies to seek professional help,” Jerrod Hinders, AC
Counseling Center director, said. “Students can access the Counseling Center by calling 806-371-5900 to set up an appointment. Our therapists are here to support students with coping in the aftermath of a tragedy, using evidenced-based practices.”
ACPD is located in Dutton Hall and can be reached by calling 806371-5163 for non-emergencies and 806-3715911 for emergencies.
As a new school year begins, and we’re still trying to find our new normal in this post-COVID world, I’m more excited than ever to see what this year has to offer.
As the new editor-in-chief, I’m looking forward to implementing the leadership tactics I learned while attending the Associated Collegiate Press Mega Media conference in Minneapolis this summer.
Growth is one of my top priorities for “The Ranger” and its contributors. I want to encourage each individual to be their best and push their own expectations.
This year, I hope to inspire. Not only do I want to
lead AC Student Media in reporting on important topics, but I also want to inspire our community to connect as well. Journalism serves the community by educating the public, providing different perspectives and encouraging change.
It’s important to nourish the partnership journalism provides. I’m active on campus and I hope to inspire success in and outside of the newsroom.
“The Ranger” has been Amarillo College’s primary news source since 1930 and I’m excited to carry on the tradition. “The Ranger” covers the campus better than
other news outlets because of the dedicated students that make it happen.
Last year, when I started college, I had no idea the amazing things that were in store for me. I moved a few times in high school, I wasn’t motivated and overall had a tough time accomplishing the things I wanted to. That changed when I started Amarillo College. I didn’t know what to expect, but I involved myself in on-campus activities and eventually wound up in the newsroom.
Being a part of something so much bigger than myself has been eye opening, and I feel that I’ve found the place
where I feel the most myself.
I want everyone to find that place. Get involved with the different clubs on campus, go to different campus events and take advantage of all of the opportunities to broaden your experience at AC. There is something here for everyone. I wasn’t a leader when I got here.
Now, I’m the editor-in-chief of “The Ranger,” president of Sigma Kappa Delta, the English honor society and a Presidential Scholar. AC has changed my life for the better, and I hope to be part of that magic for someone else this year.
I am thrilled to welcome you to the Fall 2022 academic year. I know it will be one for the history books. To ensure your success, I strongly encourage you to meet your faculty, engage with tutoring, get involved in student organizations and use the Advocacy and Resource Center for any financial barriers. Your faculty are central to your success and they care deeply about you. Using our tutoring centers is the greatest predictor of your graduation. Getting involved not only helps you build your network; it helps you succeed. And, Amarillo College is committed to removing any life barrier you may face. We are adding new supports for your mental and physical health this year so look for those options for you and your family. These are important choices to ensure your success.
Yet, we continue to face COVID uncertainties and pressures. The pandemic doesn’t change the choices successful students make. It does complicate these choices though. As you navigate your college experiences this fall, just be thoughtful about washing your hands. If you are so inclined, wear your masks as long as the local numbers rise. Practice safe distancing when you are able. Our faculty are exceptional teachers and have worked diligently to create active and interesting course content and deeper learning. Our staff will work diligently to answer any questions that arise, or solve any problems you face.
Amarillo College is a great institution – one of the best in the entire country. Our faculty and staff care deeply about you. We want you to learn, build your skills, and prepare to transfer to your university or find your dream job.
With your brilliance, hard work, and potential combined with AC’s deep commitment to your progress, we will navigate this new semester (and pandemic) like we do everything at the college – successfully.
My name is Marcus Benefield and I am excited to be serving as this year’s Amarillo College Student Government Association president. This is my second year here at AC as well as my second year in the Student Government.
I am enthusiastic about serving as your student body president this year. I hope to ensure that you all have not only a wonderful start at AC, but grow to love it as I have.
Amarillo College has and will always have a Culture of Caring. When I say that, I mean AC is here for you in so many different ways—through resources for those in need, high quality education and fantastic staff who are eager to work toward your success. Each employee at this school loves each student and is willing to help them however they can.
I encourage you to get involved during your time at AC. Whether that means jumping in a student club or participating in one of the many events our wonderful clubs and departments hold, I guarantee that you won’t regret it.
A big part of the Culture of Caring here on AC is being available to the students, and that value extends to us in the Student Government. We are here for you—the students! If you have questions, need support or just want to hang out. Our office is currently located at the end of the hall on the fourth floor of
Russell Lowery-Hart, President Amarillo College
Byrd and we’d love to see you stop by. Or, stop by and say hello at one of our many campus events. Our goal is to make sure every single student feels comfortable and welcomed here on campus as well as supporting you in your academic endeavors.
I hope to be able to, in some way, help you on your academic journey and can’t wait to celebrate your successes.
Let’s make this a great year and Go Badgers!
Benefield, President SGA
Amarillo College students have noticed the results of the ongoing construction across AC campuses, which progressed over the summer despite supply delays.
“The common area between Ware and the cafe looks awesome,” Charlie Glear, an English major, said. “Definitely a more welcoming vibe.”
The Master Plan construction project hasn’t lost many days to weather, but some deadlines have been delayed due to supply and shipping issues according to Danny Smith, Master Plan program manager.
“Well, the Carter Fitness Center we pushed hard to get finished before the first volleyball games, and we’re not going to make that,” Smith said. “We still are having some long delays on parts. The electric power distribution panel was not scheduled to be shipped until Aug. 9.”
Some of the parking lots on the Washington Street Campus will remain fully or partially closed during the fall semester, however, by the end of the project there will be an additional exit option onto 24th street off Parking Lot 10 and Parking Lot 9, near Parcells
Hall, will also be reconfigured.
“In addition to that, down the road when we finish that project, we're putting in a couple of extra parking lots,” Smith said. “We've made agreements with the park to add— I call them dog ears because they're just out on the sides - but we're going to add spots out there.”
Smith said keeping the buildings cool during the summer was a priority. “We were able to get chilled water to the music and art center over there that it did not have before,” he said. “That work is tied to the existing chilled water loop and getting and keeping the buildings cool through summer.”
Money was allocated to the purchase and renovation of the former J.C. Penney building in Sunset Center which will host classes for first responders. The scope of some projects has also expanded beyond the initial budget.
Additional funds were needed for the renovation of the Carter Fitness Center, Smith said. “The Master Plan budget basically had to clean up the locker rooms in the restrooms, because of the showers, all the drains didn't flow well. We've gone in and completely renovated that building and added 23 feet to the south, so it's
going to be a state-of-the-art facility when we're through.”
As projects progress and new needs arise, the budget must shift and expand, but the money will be there when needed according to Chris Sharp, vice president of business affairs. “Out of the $89 million of bonds issued, we’ve spent about $40 million on 18 projects,” Sharp said. “Phases II and III will have 15 additional projects. We’ll use bond money and money raised from the Capital Campaign to pay for them.”
The Innovation Outpost remodel has been completed and is ready to host upcoming artificial intelligence and robotics programs. Restrooms on the Washington Street Campus have also been renovated, although some permanent doors have not yet been shipped. Projects awaiting completion include bringing tutoring centers together and renovating the library in the Ware Student Commons.
Glear approves the goals of the project and looks forward to its completion. “From what I understand they're doing what they can to not only make the campus more welcoming, but opening things up more so that they can help even more students get a higher education,” they said.
Amarillo College’s Advocacy and Resource Center (ARC), provides resources to students through their various services such as the Counseling Center, legal clinic and food pantry, which are completely free to students and only require that students be currently enrolled to use them. AC also offers employment resources for students looking for a job or an internship.
The AC food pantry is free for any enrolled student who is attending classes and not only provides food but also other necessities such as hygiene products and supplies for taking care of babies. Students can fill out an online ordering form, select products they need and pick them up at a certain time, similar to shopping online with Walmart.
On the Washington Street Campus, the food pantry is located in Dutton Hall room 101. There are also food pantries on West Campus in Building A room 104, East campus in the Student Service Center room 136 as
well as on the Moore county and Hereford Campuses.
The pantry can be used up to twice a month, but can be flexible if more food is needed. It can also help students apply for government food assistance.. AC officials report that 42%
of the student population use these services and it’s growing every year. “When something goes on, it’s OK to ask for help,” Jordan Herrera, director of social services said. “It’s OK to come to a place that’s safe to talk to social workers to
get the help you need. We’re here to serve you.”
The High Plains Food Bank mobile harvest truck is another resource that students can use. The truck comes to the college every Tuesday at 11:30 a.m. located in Parking Lot 6 near the STEM research center
on Van Buren. “It’s open to anyone who wants to come,” said Autumn Schiller, a food bank employee. All a student has to do is provide their name to receive a bag of produce.
Every week the truck provides produce to around 130 people at its AC location. It also visits Heal the City, at Sixth Street and Tennessee, on Mondays at 11:30 a.m. and ACTS Community Resource Center at 202 S. Louisiana, on Wednesdays at the same time. “We do a distribution Monday through Thursday. The only way we don’t is due to weather,” Ryleigh Cady, a food bank employee, said.
AC also has a scholarship program that gives out awards every year and offers financial assistance, often to first-generation students, when needed.
On Sept. 20, the ARC is holding its annual resource fair in the Oeschger Family Mall on the Washington Street Campus. The event will bring representatives from the Amarillo community on campus for students to connect with. Students attending the resource fair will also have an opportunity to enter in a drawing for a scholarship.
Q. What made you want to come to AC?
A. Coach Hargrove was originally the cross country coach at Tascosa so he kept encouraging me to go to AC, and I figured that would be a smart decision to stay here and save up.
Q. What are you looking forward to this season?
A. AC hasn’t had an athletics program since 1985, so I’m looking forward to the team leaving a legacy for its first year.
Q. What made you want to come to AC?
A. I was planning to come to AC even before they had a cross country team. I mean, it’s a top five community college in the U.S.
Q. What are you looking forward to this season?
A. I’m looking forward to having a strong bond with my team.
Q. What made you want to come to AC?
A. It’s close to home and it’s a great start.
Q. What are you looking forward to this season?
A. Working hard as a team and going to nationals.
Q. What made you want to come to AC?
A. It’s close to home and I really liked the idea of athletics. I always loved doing cross country, and when they said they were bringing it back, I thought it was a really good opportunity to come here.
Q. What are you looking forward to this season?
A. I’m excited to get closer as a team and do really well. Maybe go to nationals.
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