April 29, 2021

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APRIL 29, 2021

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APRIL. 29, 2021 || MOUNT PLEASANT, MI

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APRIL. 29, 2021

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PHOTO OF THE DAY

CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE | CM-LIFE.COM

APRIL 29, 2021

CM LIFE

NEWS

FATHER SEEKING JUSTICE

PHOTO

VISUALIZING THEIR STORY

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NEWS

24 ADS

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Make sure to read all of our coverage on our website, cm-life.com.

SPORTS

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Jurnee Hoffmeyer, 7, had her hair cut by her teacher, garnering attention from a civil rights official.

Cosmetology student shows resiliency as a pregnant woman living in a homeless shelter.

SCOPE OF SEXUAL ASSAULT An attempt to make sense of reported sexual assault cases on campus.

BABY GRADS Families and friends share love and support for their graduates.

A NEW FACE Sports writers Mitch Vosburg and Christian Booher share their thoughts on the hiring of Tony Barbee.

Nate Pappas | Staff Photographer Mount Pleasant freshman Paige Birchmeier, Flint senior Colin Edwards and Ionia sophomore Sidney Klynstra practice a song they choreographed for their hip-hop class exam April 21 next to Fabiano Botanical Gardens.

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Fall Course Registration is Now Available!

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APRIL. 29, 2021

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Tony Voisin retiring after four decades at CMU

By McKenna Golat Staff Reporter –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

After four decades at Central Michigan University, Associate Vice President of Student Affairs Tony Voisin will be retiring on July 6.

Voisin has been a part of the CMU campus community since he became a student in 1980. However, his roots at CMU go back further. Both of his parents are from the Mount Pleasant area and his grandmother worked at the University Center. He met his wife while attending CMU and his children are alumni.

Voisin will leave behind four decades of achievements and a lifetime of experiences at CMU. “This is where my heart was, this is where my passion was,” Voisin said. “I grew up with (CMU) in my blood.”

Voisin said he first thought of retiring last year but decided against it because of COVID-19. He said there was no way he could leave CMU knowing what the community was about to go through in 2020.

After everything that occurred this year, like vaccine distribution, Voisin thought the summer of 2021 would be a perfect time to retire. He believes Student

Affairs will be in good hands after he retires.

“I think now is the right time, and I feel it’s time for me to hand the reins over to other folks,” Voisin said. “We have great people within my division that I get to work with who are ready for these challenges.”

Voisin said his retirement is not related to investigations being conducted within Student Affairs. He said he would not have been able to choose a retirement date if this were the case.

“No one has asked me to retire,” he said. “I’m just getting ready for it.”

In a University Communications press release President Bob Davies said Voisin’s name is synonymous with CMU. He also said Voisin’s devotion to the students is unparalleled.

“Our university is a better place because of him,” Davies said. “He is truly leaving a legacy.”

For Voisin, it’s hard for him to associate his name with the word “legacy.”

He said his career has been marked by the positive relationships he had with co-workers and CMU students. He hopes he has been able to give other people the same connection and sense of community he feels with CMU.

“If you want to call it a legacy, I hope I’ve been able to contribute to those types of relationships with other people,” Voisin said.

Although he is retiring, Voisin is not leaving the CMU community completely behind. He will still come to campus when he can. He said he does not want to miss any athletic games or concerts that may occur on campus.

However, Voisin said he will miss the impacts and contacts he had with students before retiring.

“I won’t fall away and not continue to have an association with CMU,” Voisin said. “I’ll still be there – it’s who I am.”

Voisin hopes his successor will be able to tailor Student Affairs to benefit students. He said CMU’s Student Affairs has a strong reputation, so the candidates will be very qualified and skilled.

He hopes his successor will be able to take the Department of Student Affairs to the next level for the benefit of CMU as a whole. Voisin said he is excited for his colleagues and the students of CMU. “I think we have a great foundation,” Courtesy Photo Voisin said.

Tony Voisin poses with a graduating CMU student, CMU will soon be conducting a nationhis daughter, Maggie Voisin at the CMU seal. al search to find Voisin’s successor.

LIFE IN BRIEF

Suspect in Deerfield Village shooting arrested on 10-count felony

By Christian Booher Staff Reporter –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– The Isabella County Sheriff’s Office took a suspect into custody for the April 24 shooting at Deerfield Village apartments, according to a press release from the Isabella County Sheriff’s Office.

Detroit resident Kenneth Thomas was arrested April 27 on a 10-count felony warrant.

Central Michigan University junior Johnathan Keller, 21, and senior Tyler Bunting, 23, were confirmed as victims in the shooting, President Bob Davies said in an April 25 email to campus.

Mount Pleasant police were dispatched to the apartment complex after receiving word of gunshots fired at an off-campus party around 1 a.m.

April 24.

Thomas is believed to have been

at the party for a short time before a fight broke out. During the fight, Thomas went to his vehicle, retrieved a gun and fired upon returning to the party.

According to the press release, Thomas and several others had come to Mount Pleasant April 23 to “socialize at local establishments”. After the establishments closed, Thomas and others heard about the gathering at Deerfield.

The press release states that Thomas and his accomplices have no connection to CMU or the Mount Pleasant area.

Both Keller and Bunting were taken to hospitals after sustaining single gunshot wounds. Bunting was transported to Midland and remains in stable condition. Keller, a member of the Central Michigan football team, was airlifted to Hurley Medical Center in Flint and is improving. He remains in serious condition per his family.

Little Koi to serve bubble tea, poke at Mission street location

By Jill Harrington Staff Reporter –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Mount Pleasant will be expanding its range of food options this summer by welcoming its first poke bowl restaurant, Little Koi. The eatery will be located at 1804 S Mission St, next to Insomnia Cookies.

Lin Fan, who founded the first Little Koi in Saginaw, owns the resturant.

“We serve Japanese ramen, poke, bubble tea, appetizers and desserts,” Fan said. “We try to create a healthy eatery where people like the bowls and the rich flavor.”

Hawaiian poke, or deconstructed sushi, will be served build-your-own style in an open kitchen environment.

Customers can choose rice or salad, then add proteins like salmon, tuna, yellowtail, scallops, shrimp, chicken or tofu. Little Koi offers over 18 top-

pings ranging from sweet mango to masago (edible fish eggs).

Kiki Loin has been working at the Little Koi in Saginaw for three years.

She said poke bowls have gained popularity over the years.

“There’s a lot of new customers right now,” Loin said. “Regulars still keep going, but [there are] a little bit more new customers every day.”

After months of planning and renovations, the restaurant is scheduled to open in June. The restaurant is searching for employees.

You can find Little Koi on facebook @littlekoicmu or visit https://www. littlekoi.net/ to apply for a job.

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APRIL 29, 2021

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State civil rights official addresses haircut incident

By Isaac Ritchey Editor-in-Chief ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– A situation involving Mount Pleasant Public Schools and one of its former students has garnered nationwide attention over the past couple of weeks.

The Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR) addressed the incident where a school staff member cut the hair of a biracial student without parental consent.

“We are deeply concerned about the reported incident ... ,” MDCR director James E. White said. “We are in contact with the school administration and the child’s family to ascertain the facts and circumstances that led to this unfortunate event and to decide on the next steps.”

Jurnee Hoffmeyer, 7, arrived home from Ganiard Elementary School on March 24 with the hair on one side of her head cut off. Her father, Jimmy Hoffmeyer contacted the school — which was on spring break at the time. A week later he found out a fellow student had cut Jurnee’s hair with a pair of scissors on the bus ride home.

After getting it fixed up at the salon, Hoffmeyer thought it would be the last time someone touched his daughter’s hair. However, Jurnee came home a couple of days later with an even shorter haircut. Jurnee told her dad that a librarian had cut it.

“I’ve heard people say, ‘It’s only hair,’” Hoffmeyer said. “It’s not only hair to her.

That was her image; that was her self-esteem.”

Hoffmeyer said Jurnee was deeply traumatized by the situation but has received an outpour of support from the Mount Pleasant community and across the nation.

“I don’t know what her dreams are about.” Hoffmeyer said. “She won’t tell me, but she has nightmares every night now.

She kicked out of bed last night, freaking out about something. And when I woke her up, she didn’t tell me. She was just sad.”

Since the incident, Hoffmeyer has taken Jurnee out of the Mount Pleasant public school system. He also partnered with the California-based National Parents Union, a network of parent organizations that advocate for improved quality of life for children in the United States.

“NPU has shown so much support for my family,” Hoffmeyer said. “I can’t even imagine doing any of this without them. I don’t know the laws or how to contact the right people to get things done properly.”

The fight against hair discrimination White said the incident shows a need for legislation “to make it clear that discriminating against a person because their hairstyle does not conform with dominant cultural standards is discrimination based on race.”

Local father seeking justice for daughter whose hair was cut by teacher

Isaac Ritchey | Editor-in-Chief Jurnee Hoffmeyer, 7, and her father Jimmy Hoffmeyer sit on the steps outside their home April 21 in Mount Pleasant. Jurnee’s hair was cut by a Mount Pleasant school employee March 24 after a fellow student had cut her hair on the way home on the bus about a week prior. The story has recently garnered national attention.

White is in favor of the state adopting the CROWN Act, an backronym for “Create a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair.” The legislation would ban and help fight against hair discrimination.

“It is not uncommon for Black and biracial women and girls to be subjected to discrimination and disparate treatment based on their hair,” White said. “The CROWN Act, currently under consideration in the state legislature, would clarify that such discrimination is a violation of an individual’s civil rights. We urge lawmakers to pass the CROWN Act and send it to the Governor for her signature.”

California, Washington state, New York, Virginia, Colorado, Maryland, New Jersey and Connecticut have already adopted the

CROWN Act as law.

The bill was sponsored in Michigan by state Rep. Sarah Anthony and reintroduced in February. Ingham County became the first county in the state to pass a resolution banning hair discrimination against public employees on March 23.

School addresses incident Jurnee’s story was first published by the Black Wall Street Times April 16.

The Mount Pleasant School Board referred to the article as “inaccurate media reports” at its April 19 meeting. The administration sent out a letter to parents the next morning.

“At Mount Pleasant Public Schools, we strive to ensure all our students can learn

and achieve in an inclusive, safe environment free from harassment, discrimination, bigotry or intolerance,” Mount Pleasant Public Schools Superintendent Jennifer Verleger said. “We work hard each day to foster a culture of respect, compassion and kindness so all our students, families, staff and visitors feel welcome and supported.”

In an effort for transparency, Verleger detailed the school’s ongoing internal review.

After the initial haircut, Verleger said Jurnee “grew unhappy and dissatisfied with the way her hair looked after the other student cut it.” Verleger said Jurnee asked a school librarian – who is also a cosmetologist – to help fix her hair during a classroom visit to the library.

The employee agreed and cut Jurnee’s hair without the parents’ permission or consulting with school administrators. The school found that Jurnee’s teacher was aware of the plan to cut her hair.

“Regardless of their good intentions, these actions are unacceptable and show a lack of judgment on the part of our two employees,” Verleger said. “Both employees have admitted their actions and apologized. Both are being reviewed for further disciplinary actions in accordance with our school policies and procedures. I have personally apologized to the family on behalf of the school district.”

Following Verleger’s statement, NPU Director of Policy and Legislation Christina Laster released a statement of her own in support of the Hoffmeyer family.

“The implication by Mount Pleasant Public Schools that Jurnee asked for the haircut and was being done a favor by all parties isn’t consistent with her story, the family’s understanding and not within legal parameters,” Lasher said. “Jurnee Hoffmeyer loved her hair that she grew from birth and did not seek out a haircut at school.”

Lasher also said adults have “a legal and fiduciary responsibility to care for minor children left in their care.”

“We do not find placing blame on Jurnee is the best way to offer remorse and accountability,” Lasher said. “The way to move forward in authenticity, real meaningful progress and change, combat systemic racism and hold school systems to task is by offering an apology, restitution and viable solutions to ensure this type of situation never happens again.”

The matter is continuing to attract attention on social media with the hashtag “#JusticeForJurnee.”

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A HOME FOR BAB

Micah holds up her ultrasound photos while talking to Joseph, Sunday, April 18, outside of Isabella County Restoration House. Micah is around 4 months pregnant, and found out on her first day in the shelter back in December.

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BY Finding a place to grow together PHOTOS AND STORY BY DREW TRAVIS

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A set of children’s blocks which, when fully put together, would tell The Lord’s Prayer, but in this instance just a few lines of broken poetry, March 31.

Mother-to-be provides window into hardship, willpower During Mount Pleasant resident Micah Kusky’s first day at the Isabella County Restoration House (ICRH) rotating homeless shelter, she had just found out she was pregnant.

“I was a mess when I first came in, crying nonstop.” (One of the other people at the shelter) kept trying to make me look on the bright side,” the 21-year-old cosmetology student said. “I just kept saying, ‘Ya know, you’re still breathing. Tomorrow is a new day. Keep your head up.’”

The “guests,” as they are called, at ICRH are usually found in the main room where they have all of their needs taken care of by staff members and volunteers.

This year with homelessness rising about 1 percent since 2019, which is likely to continue rising due to the pandemic, ICRH had to alter how they operate. Instead of sending its guests to churches to stay, ICRH opened its own doors and made their base of operations a 24/7 stay-in shelter fitted with showers, laundry, kitchen and even a quarantine room.

The quarantine room is lined with several cots wholly surrounded by thick medical plastic from floor to ceiling. Micah stayed in the room when her morning sickness kicked in until her COVID-19 test came back negative.

“That was hell,” Micah said. “It was just…not an enjoyable experience being cooped up like that.”

Since opening its doors to guests, the shelter has had to adapt to COVID-19 regulations.

Computers line one wall, separated by heavy sheets of plastic. Tables for eating are each divided into four sections and separated by slabs of plexiglass held in place by foam pool noodles in a makeshift set of barriers.

Changes to the shelter became necessary as the pandemic shut down the operation of all local churches, where the guests would stay throughout the weeks before transferring to another church.

Though the pandemic presented several unwelcome obstacles to finding hope in an already low time for her life, Micah said she believes in what will come of the future.

“You just have to have faith, and you have to keep your head up and keep moving forward,” she said.

Micah’s boyfriend Joseph Olsen, the father of her child, is also a resident of the shelter. The 31-year-old is a multi-instrument musician.

Micah and Joseph plan to name their daughter Zion. Micah also hopes to become a hairstylist in the coming years to support her already growing family.

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APRIL 29, 2021

Micah, left, and Joseph, her boyfriend, right, share a moment on what is occasionally their bed in the middle of Isabella County Restoration House March 28. They often sleep on cots on the floor at night and are required to wear masks the whole time that they are in the shelter.

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A single quarantine room in the back of Isabella County Restoration House March 26. Upon first arriving at Isabella County Restoration House, Micah, having morning sickness, had to spend two weeks on this cot due to COVID-19 protocol.

Micah does homework for her cosmetology classes, which she takes four days a week at MJ Murphy Beauty College just a block away from Isabella County Restoration House March 31 at the First Presbyterian Church in Mount Pleasant. During a regular year, different churches would rotate care for ICRH’s guests, but this year only a few would open up in time for ICRH’s season.

Micah Kusky, 21, watches the birds flit through the trees outside of the Isabella County Restoration House, a rotating April 16 in Mount Pleasant.

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Micah, left, and Joseph, right, eat lunch together at a table separated into quarters by plexiglass, April 18 at Isabella County Restoration House. The shelter, which had to fully equip itself for guests staying 24/7, had to put up plexiglass at tables and to separate the guests from the kitchen, as well as plastic between all of their computer stations.

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Micah and Jo with thei final day o April 18. Th put up in organizatio

Micah smokes her watermelon on a “smoke break” outside of County Restoration House, Apr smoke breaks would occur onc few hours, and would be the o time that ICRH guests are allow side barring approval from the

Micah toward the b Pre Mount

oseph load their car ir belongings on the of ICRH’s operations hey were able to get a hotel room by an on while they get on their feet.

n vape f Isabella ril 16. The ce every only real wed oute director.

walks down the hall d the dining room in basement of the First esbyterian Church in t Pleasant March 31.

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! g n i t a u d a r G s ’ o h W k o o L ily m a f r u o Congrats from y

Olivia Eleanor Berger

Cailynn Raine Aumock

! s d n & frie

Alexis Marie Berning We are so proud of you and all you have accomplished.

You have an amazing future ahead of you and may God bless you with a lifetime of success.

Our wish for you....

Laughter and Joy The Courage to own your mistakes To give and earn Respect A life where your Dreams come true A wonderful Journey

From your first day of preschool, we knew your thirst for learning and your helping heart would take you far. Congratulations on your college graduation!

y

le d i R e l l e o N Grace

Love, Mom, Dad & Family

Aaliyah Danielle Cupil

Grace, We are very proud to see you complete your music composition and German studies in CMU’s Honors program! God bless you going forward!

Love, Dad, Mom & Hope

“We are so proud and love you so much! Your star shines so brightly and there is no limit to what you can do! Stay strong, encouraged and remain faithful & grateful in all you do.”

Love Always, Mommy & Dad

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Nicole Ashley Cameron

We love and cherish you with all our hearts — Dad, Mom, Courtney & Blake

Congratulations Baby-Ruth (Gazetti)!

So proud of you!

Love from your family, Dad, Mom, & Rachel

Congratulations McKenzie!

We are so proud of how hard you worked and what you have accomplished.

We know that you will continue to have a bright future.

Whatever your dream, you have the power to make it come true.

Congratulations!

Love Mom & Dad

Elijah Jordan Hardee

Congratulations Reese on earning your master’s degree— you did that!

Dedicated to your studies and activities, successful in achieving your dreams— inspirational! Praise God for all of the experiences at CMU. Love, Mom, Dad & Family

Corbin Marie Crain Congratulations Peanut!

We are all so proud of you! Keep chasing your dreams – the sky’s the limit!

WE ALL LOVE YOU! Mom, Dad, Ron, Corey, & Lauren

APRIL 29, 2021

She believed she could... so she did.

Love, Your Family

Teresé Lynne Haley

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Addison Rose Fox

McKenzie Karin Coffey

You’ve come a long way baby! We are proud beyond measure — congratulations on your college graduation! May God and your angels always bless and keep you!

Ruth Gazetti

CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE | CM-LIFE.COM

Congratulation on your incredible accomplishment, and we are looking forward to welcoming you to the Judicial BAR! We are so proud of you.

Love, Mom & Dad

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y e l r u B Cassia Cassia (Micro baby),

From the day you put on a backpack in your pajamas and tried to go to preschool with your older sister, we knew you were dedicated to your learning.

Congratulations!

We’re so proud of you!

-Your Loving Family

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Nicholas

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APRIL 29, 2021

S. Hirsch Nicholas, So very proud of what you have accomplished Nicholas! Honors Program.

Summa Cum Laude! Wow!!

We can’t wait for your next exciting chapter. You’re going to do great!

Much Love, Dad & Mom.

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Hallie R. Hypio Hats off to the graduate! You’ve come a long way baby. So very proud of you.

Love Mom

Jordan Christopher Lagestee

Haley P. Klay

Joshua Alex Kovach

Hayhoo,

Josh,

We’re so incredibly proud of how hard you worked for your education degree!

We know that you’ll be an amazing teacher!

So very proud of you and your accomplishments. My wish for you is that this life becomes all that you want it to.

We love you, Dad, Mom, Kait, Syd & Dan

Love, Mom, Tj, Fiona, Anthony & Lacey

Alexis Nicole Liskovec

Congratulations!

Congratulations Lexi!

Your hard work has paid off. We are so proud of you and looking forward to your new adventures.

We’re so proud of you and your accomplishments.

We love you!

Love always, Mom, Jon & Elizabeth

Mom, Pud, Autumn, Aislynn & Grace

Loreal Nix Loreal, Congrats on achieving one of your dreams. The sky is the limit with God and family by your side. Shoot for the moon. We love you and are so very proud of you!

Love, Mom, Maxx, Granny, Auntie, Ru, & Jay

Brian E. & Christian M. Maloney

Congratulations Brian and Christian Maloney!

-Mom and Dad

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APRIL 29, 2021

Jianna Love Martinez Congrats Jianna, Your brothers and sister look up to you and can only hope to follow in your success. We are so proud of you.

Love, Cameron, Nadene & Nathan

Brandon Michael Edwards

Daniel J. Becker Danny, Congratulations we are very proud of you and your accomplishments son!! We wish you God’s blessings in your new adventures.

Son, You’ve worked so hard and we’re extremely proud of you. Remember to always keep God first in all you do. We love you!

Love, Mom, George, Nichole, & Louie

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n i a t s a h Austin C Congratulations, Austin.

We are so incredibly proud of the man you have become. As you continue to forge your path in life; embrace opportunity, be strong, caring, compassionate and believe in yourself as much as we believe in you.

We love you, Mom & Dad

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APRIL 29, 2021

! g n i t a u d a r G s ’ o h W k o o L Abigail Marie Roman Abigail,

nd e i r f ily & m a f r you m o r f ts Congra

s!

It seems just yesterday you headed out to school. You’ve worked hard, achieved much and strived to succeed.

Congratulations on your well deserved success!

We Love You, Mom & Dad

Reagan Christine Schultz Reagan, We are so proud of you and what you have accomplished in these past 4 years! Congratulations — you did it!

Love you! Mom, Scott, Kayla & Tanner

Jacob Zimmerman On your graduation day, we honor your journey and your destination. We have watched you grow, shared amazing memories with you, and have experienced the challenges you’ve worked through to get to this day. Graduation isn’t the end of this tough journey, it is the beginning of a new one.

Congratulations to a very special young man who is destined to do great things in life because of his perseverance and will to succeed. Jacob, you make us all very proud!

Love, Your Mother, Meme, & Papa

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e c i R s a m o h T y r cha

Za

eritus: D

ssors of em ndson to profe

(gra

Congratulations, we always knew “The Force will be with you.”

May you continue looking at the stars and dreaming of a brighter future.

This milestone is just another thing that continues to amaze us about you each and every day.

With much love, your VERY proud family!

and Margery rs. William T.

A. Bulger)

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a l l i m a m u r i h C a vallik

Pra

Pravallika, We are so proud of you! We are so excited to see how much more you accomplish in your future. We love you so much.

Congratulations!

Love, Mom, Dad, & Megana

APRIL 29, 2021

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! g n i t a u d a r G s ’ o h W k o o L Delaney Wesson

Autumn Cassandra Williams

ds! n e i r y&f l i m a f our Love y m o you, ts fr Mama, Dad & Congra Grammy She Believed She Could, So She Did… Believe in your Dreams Delaney!

Autumn Marie Godette It has been a privilege to watch you grow into the beautiful young lady that you are today.

Congratulations on your well deserved success.

Very proud of you.

Congratulations to our beautiful daughter on your accomplishments!

BSBA Law & Economics, drumline, cum laude, honors societies, business awards! We’re so proud!

Love you very much!

Love, Mom & Dad

Sydney Nicole Hall

Love, Mom & Dad

Sydney, Congratulations!

We are so proud of you and your amazing achievements at CMU! We can’t wait to see what the future holds for you.

Love, Mom, Dad, Hunter

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Kendall Murrell

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APRIL 29, 2021

Arica Rose Ball So excited to see where life takes you & looking forward to seeing your smart, strong, beautiful self on our TVs! We’re so proud of you!

You’ve exuded nothing but extreme perseverance and dedication throughout your college career and I’m so proud of you.

The path you’ve chosen will lead you to greatness and success.

I love you dearly, you made it!!

Love, Pops, Mom & Rob & your family

Love you forever, Mom

Ashley Smith Ashley Ealand, We are SO proud of all of your accomplishments and know the future is so bright for you! You have shined so brightly during your years at Central, and we know that’s just the beginning!

Continue to Fire Up always Ash! Love, Dad, Mom, Paige, Amanda, Carter & Peyton

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Kelsee V

iolet Zab

awski

Congratulations Kelsee Violet!

Your dedication and hard work ethic has made us so proud! You have always put 110% into your education – what more could parents ask for. Cherish the memories and friends you have made along the way. We know you will be a success whatever you do!

“It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.” e. e. cummings

Love you to the moon and back, Mom, Dad & Jordan

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TO OUR SUPER TEAMMATES,

CONGRATS, GRADS! Andrew Mullin

Jon Hearth

Austi n Cha stain

(From left to right) Madison Skop, Alex Robinson, Samantha Sweeting, Isaac Ritchey, Tess DeGayner

Jazmyn B ynum

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APRIL. 29, 2021

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SEXUAL ASSA

HOW REPORTED NUMBERS DON’T SH

By Teresa Homsi Staff Reporter ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Despite an effort from Central Michigan University to combat sexual assault on campus, the scope of sexual assault and its impact remains a mystery.

There were seven reports of sexual assault that occurred on CMU’s campus in 2019, according to the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report.

This number has varied throughout the years, but according to the CMU Police Department, it’s always been “within range” – staying between 5-12 annual reports every year since 2013.

However, CMUPD Lt. Michael Sienkiewicz recognizes the limitations of the report, which outlines the on-campus crime statistics and is required to be annually released under the “Clery Act.” “I think Clery is a well-intended law, but sometimes it’s just difficult (to have a complete assessment of the crime),” Sienkiewicz said. “(Clery) doesn’t capture the whole picture. It’s intended more for on-campus, but we know CMU plays a big factor in the community.”

In order for a crime to be listed on the Clery report, Sienkiewicz said it must: n Be reported as occurring on campus or on CMU property. n Constitute as a “Clery-reportable” crime, which is defined within the report. n Be reported to a “Clery-authorized” reporting party, which include CMUPD, the Office of Student Conduct, Residence Life or the Office for Civil Rights and Institutional Equity (OCRIE).

HOW SEXUAL ASSAULT IS HANDLED AT CMU At CMU, there are three main organizations that respond to sexual assault and violence: CMUPD, OCRIE and Sexual Aggression Peer Advocates (SAPA).

The specific duties differ between departments, but their roles can overlap, especially when referring survivors to different resources and services.

CMUPD’s role is “clearly defined,” according to Sienkiewicz. CMUPD handles sexual assault incidents with investigations that can result in criminal convictions.

OCRIE coordinates and monitors the university’s affirmative action/equal opportunity efforts and programs to ensure

compliance with state and federal statutes. In regard to sexual assault response, OCRIE also performs sexual misconduct investigations, which can result in disciplinary actions such as student suspension.

SAPA is a confidential, crisis support line that offers help and resources for survivors of sexual aggression. SAPA functions as a volunteer, para-professional student organization under the department of Sexual Aggression Services.

Central Michigan Life sat down with representatives from these three organizations to better understand the scope of sexual assault at CMU. IF IT’S NOT SEVEN, THEN WHAT IS THE REAL NUMBER? No one really knows.

Although sexual violence is sometimes described as an epidemic, sexual assault is often categorized as an underreported crime.

According to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), among undergraduate college students, approximately 26 percent of women and 7 percent of men experience sexual assault. RAINN published that approximately 80 percent of female victims of sexual violence do not report to law enforcement.

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CMU

ZING

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HOW ‘THE WHOLE PICTURE’ The Clery guidebook lists a range of reasons for non/under-reporting, addressing potential feelings of shame, fear, social isolation, self-blame and mistrust of law enforcement among victims.

SAPA Director Brooke Oliver-Hempenstall said the university isn’t trying to “skirt around” the numbers – there just isn’t an accurate estimate for the rates of sexual assault at CMU. “We know (sexual assault is) happening,” Oliver-Hempenstall said. “At what rate? I don’t know, but we wouldn’t have services if we didn’t believe it hasn’t ever happened. The issue is not gone.”

Oliver-Hempenstall and OCRIE Director Mary Martinez said they base the need of their resources off of student voices. Martinez said she works directly with organizations like the CMU Student Government Association (SGA) to “find and fill the gaps” in CMU’s services.

“Students are encouraged to speak out – if they see something, (they can) say something or advocate for what is needed,” Martinez said. “If SGA is advocating for additional resources or something comes up, we listen and have that direct connection to say, ‘where might there be a gap and what might be needed?’”

IF RATES OF SEXUAL ASSAULT ARE UNKNOWN, HOW ARE SURVIVOR RESOURCES BEING USED? According to the 2020 Title IX Summary report submitted to the State of Michigan, OCRIE opened 335 files involving complaints under CMU’s Sexual Misconduct Policy in 2019.

Sexual misconduct is defined in the policy as including, but not limited to, dating violence, domestic violence and intimate partner violence, sexual assault, sexual exploitation, sexual harassment and stalking.

SAPA received approximately 200 phone calls in 2019, which ranged from domestic violence, harassment and stalking under the umbrella term of sexual aggression.

Sienkiewicz, Oliver-Hempenstall and Martinez said their respective organizations have all taken steps to make their resources accessible and students feel more comfortable.

For CMUPD, that meant bringing Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner or SANE kits to Mount Pleasant, which in the past required survivors to go to Midland or Lansing. Sienkiewicz said community policing and efforts to bridge the gap between CMUPD and the campus community also play a role in this. “(With CMUPD’s sexual assault response pledge), it’s about breaking down barriers to reporting for survivors,

and making sure people understand the way they’ll be treated (with respect) when they come to the police department to report sexual assault,” Sienkiewicz said.

For SAPA and OCRIE, that means playing a role in the orientation process, hosting events and continuing their outreach programs. “(Sexual assault) is a taboo topic, and it’s sometimes uncomfortable,” Martinez said. “But as a society, if we can try to make the conversation less uncomfortable and less taboo, it could help increase reporting as well.”

With their programming, Martinez and Oliver-Hempenstall hope students will know that they are never alone.

“When they’re ready to discuss or disclose an experience they’ve had – whether it’s seeking resource or support or understanding their reporting options – there is someone who they can reach out to,” Martinez said. “There’s so many individuals on campus that can help. We’re highly trained and dedicated to meeting survivors where they’re at and when they’re ready.”

For more information about SAPA, visit their website or call their 24/7 crisis support line at 989-774-CALL (2255)​.

For more information about OCRIE, visit their website.

To learn how to navigate survivor resources, check out CM Life’s guide to support systems at CMU.

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APRIL. 29, 2021

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SPRING OF

SPORTS Drew Travis | Staff Photographer Racine, Wisconsin freshman Colton Coca fields a ground ball at third base against Kent State April 18 at Theunissen Stadium.

Drew Travis | Staff Photographer CMU baseball players stay close between innings with a mini basketball hoop April 10.

Drew Travis | Staff Photographer CMU lacrosse fought to bring the game to overtime within the closing minutes of the second half, but ultimately Louisville ran away with the game on March 12.

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Drew Travis | Staff Photographer Macomb senior Maria Kaschalk advances the ball with a header on April 1.

Layla Blahnik-Thoune | Staff Photographer Albuquerque junior Shannon Stein hits the ball during the Chippewas’ game against Buffalo April 24 at Margo Jonker Stadium.

Nick Papas | Staff Photographer Outfielder Zach Gilles takes off after bunting, April 17, at Theunissen Stadium.

Layla Blahnik-Thoune | Staff Photographer Lumberton, New Jersey freshman Caroline Beairsto passes the ball during CMU’s game against Ball State April 15 at Cristy Freese Field.

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APRIL. 29, 2021

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Tony Barbee introduced as men’s basketball coach

RECRUITING WR

HAVO

How a recruiting revolut change for the Chip

By Mitch Vosburg Sports Editor ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

On April 5, CMU parted ways with men’s head basketball coach Keno Davis after going 142-143 overall and 62-96 in Mid-American Conference games.

Courtesy photo from CMU Athletics

Tony Barbee speaks during an introductory press conference at McGuirk Arena on Friday, April 23.

By Mitch Vosburg Sports Editor ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––– A new era of CMU men’s basketball officially began April 22.

Tony Barbee was introduced as the 21st head coach in program history in a virtual press conference Friday.

“I’m looking forward to chasing championships at CMU,” Barbee said. “It’s been a long time and long overdue. It’s time to get back to winning. I’m excited for the opportunity and can’t wait to get started.”

He will replace Keno Davis, who served as head coach from 2012-21, finding 142-143 overall and 62-96 in the Mid-American Conference.

Barbee has just over 25 years of coaching under his belt with stints as an assistant coach at his alma mater, the University of Massachusetts, Wyoming and Memphis from 1996-2006 before taking his first head coaching job at the University of Texas-El Paso, leading the Miners to an 85-52 record, two College Basketball Invitational appearances and a 2010 NCAA Tournament appearance after the Miners finished 26-7 and 15-1 in Conference USA. Barbee spent the next four seasons as the head coach at Auburn before being released in 2014 after a 49-75 overall record and 18-50 record in Southeastern Conference action. He spent the last seven seasons as an assistant coach at Kentucky under John Calipari.

Barbee spent four seasons as a player for Calipari at

UMass and 14 seasons on Calipari’s coaching staff at UMass, Memphis and Kentucky.

Barbee signed a letter of acceptance to take the role but has not signed his official contract. Athletic Director Amy Folan said his deal will be “similar to the contract of the last coach.”

While Barbee’s resume was a selling point for Folan, the authenticity, grit and ability to overcome adversity were the determining factors in naming him head coach.

“I’m confident that he is the person that can make us a leader in the MAC, in the student-athlete experience and in the fan experience,” Folan said. “I’m excited to have him as our basketball coach and work with him in a partnership to make all of these great things happen for our student-athletes, for our community and for this great Central Michigan University.”

While Barbee struggled to keep his CMU face mask over his nose throughout the duration of the press conference, his message was made loud and clear.

“Nobody’s expectations will be higher than mine on where this program will go,” Barbee said. “I’ve always said that coaches can win games, but it takes a community of people and an administration that are fully invested in that success and that’s what truly excited me about this opportunity. There’s nobody that’s going to go harder and there’s no one who will outwork me and my staff to make sure we get this program back to the top of the MAC.”

His final three seasons at the helm saw CMU finish 44-46 overall and 20-32 in the MAC. His final three seasons came without the help of assistant coaches Kevin Gamble, Kyle Gerdiman and Kyle Smith, who all left the program for new jobs between 2018 and 2019.

The departure of the three assistants resulted in a shakeup of how Davis recruited, relying more on transfer players from other institutions over players straight from high school. It’s a trend that is on the rise within the conference, and Davis was at the forefront of the trend.

While there is no set way to construct a successful college basketball program, CMU is falling in line with a trend being seen in the MAC with players transferring from both the Junior College level and other collegiate levels.

During the 2015-16 season 24 percent of MAC players consisted of players who initially did not commit to a MAC school. While the percentage stayed even for the 2017-18 season, the rate of transfer players has jumped to 29 percent in 2018-19, 34 percent in 2019-20, and sits at 43 percent for the 2020-21 campaign, a 76 percent increase over the past five seasons.

The Chippewas have increased the amount of transfer players over the past five seasons. While the 2016-17 season featured only the addition of Keene, the Chippewas jumped to 24 percent of their roster consisting of transfer players in 2017-18, 35 percent in 2018-19, and 50 percent the last two years.

CMU’s transfer trend began with the addition of Marcus Keene from Youngstown State, and the Chippewas’ JUCO transfer trend began with the arrival of Shawn Roundtree Jr. in 2017. Since the 2018-19 season and the departure of Gamble, CMU has featured at least five JUCO players on their roster.

As the Chippewas continued to increase their percentage of transfer players above the conference average, their season-ending finish in the MAC has decreased. While finishing

fifth in the MAC an centage in 2018-19 continued to incre 2019-20 and 11th t Davis said that C ty, but never the lo “You want to ha school guys, the gu and try to (bring) i when you have voi long-term we’d lik es, but obviously t can stabilize your p the long haul.”

Despite welcom traditional four, ne culture that Davis “(My teammates really easy for me only from a basket Pleasant,” said for from Coffeyville Co home–it’s easy to get along.”

In general, team of transfer players drop in their final Eastern Michiga sity saw a spike in conference finish. with an increasing the conference ave finished 10th, 11th Toledo has not i over the past five s seventh in the past below the conferen watched their conf the past two seaso championship and nament.

However, Buffal have had their ros years yet have two titles, tournament while finishing no 2016.

REAKED

OC

tion sparked ppewas

nd increasing their transfer player per9, the team’s percentage of transfer players ease as the Chippewas finished ninth in this season.

CMU adding its JUCO players was necessiong-term plan for the Chippewas. ave a nice balance of high school or prep uys that will be here for four, five years, in a junior college player here or there ids in your lineup,” Davis said. “I think ke to have more balance in recruiting classthe four-to-five years guys are the ones that program and can make it successful over

ming players for two years instead of the ew additions have been able to fit into the had previously established. s) and the coaching staff have made it to adjust from community college not tball side but adjusting to being in Mount rmer forward Meikkel Murray, a transfer ommunity College. “They make me feel at be in this type of atmosphere when we all

ms that consistently increase their number s over the conference average will see a regular season conference finish. an University and Northern Illinois Univertheir transfer percentage and a dip in their Both teams have spent the last four years g transfer percentage and remain above erage. The Eagles, Chippewas and Huskies h and 12th in the MAC respectively. increased above the conference average seasons and has finished no worse than t five seasons. Ohio has managed to stay nce average entirely since 2016 and have ference regular season finish increase ons en route to a 2021 MAC Tournament d an automatic berth into the NCAA Tour-

lo bears exception to this theory. The Bulls ster over the conference average all five o MAC East division titles, regular season t titles and NCAA Tournament appearances worse than fifth in the conference since

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Vosburg: Barbee is the right man for the job Just like in April 2012, CMU men’s basketball has changed head coaches.

Keno Davis was fired on April 5, and Tony Barbee was named his replacement 18 days later. While I was left somewhat surprised of the departure of Davis, a 6-17 finish with a 3-13 record in Mid-American Conference play and enduring two brutal losses speaks for itself and proved to be the fatal blow to the Keno Davis era.

The Barbee era has started for CMU, and his resume speaks for itself, wooing athletic director Amy Folan.

Barbee is a former player and longtime assistant of current Kentucky head coach John Calipari. Barbee spent four years as the head coach of the University of Texas-El Paso from 2006-2010 and took his coaching expertise to Auburn four four seasons before finding his way back to Calipari’s staff for the start of the 2014-15 season, where he was promoted to the role of associated head coach this past season.

With over 25 years of coaching under his belt and being labeled as an ‘elite recruiter’

by Folan, Barbee appears to be the breath of much needed fresh air the men’s basketball program needs. However, skepticism still remains on Folan’s first coaching hire at CMU. Barbee finished with an 82-52 record

and a 39-25 Conference USA record in four seasons at UTEP. The Miners win total increased every season, earning 14 wins in 2006-07 to 26 in 2009-10 which included a 15-1 conference record and an appearance into the 2010 NCAA Tournament, losing 77-59 to eventual national runner-up Butler in the first round.

He found success at a non-power five program, taking the program to new heights every season before cannonballing into a newer and deeper pool.

Barbee moved on to become the head coach at Auburn, playing in the same conference as his mentor Calipari once again.

His time with the Tigers was not the same as his run in UTEP, finishing 49-75 overall and a Southeastern Conference record of a dismal 18-50.

He spent the next seven seasons as an assistant with Kentucky, aiding the Wildcats to a 187-56 overall record and an SEC mark of 95-30 with four SEC regular season and tournament titles, four sweet 16’s, three Elite Eight’s and a Final Four appearance.

He helped develop and/or recruit current NBA players Karl Anthony-Towns, Devin Booker, Jamal Murray, De’Aaron Fox, Malik Monk, Bam Adebayo, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Tyler Herro.

Obviously Barbee’s move from UTEP to

Mitch Vosburg Sports Editor

Auburn was not a success, but his resume appears to be similar to CMU football coach Jim McElwain. Both have worked under arguably the best and most intense collegiate coaches in the past 20 years, found success at the mid-major levels and later moved on to the SEC, where their former fan bases have little to no respect for either man for whatever reason that they have concocted in their minds.

During his introductory press conference on April 23, Barbee made his first pitch to the fan base. No one will outwork him or his staff, and CMU is long overdue for a successful men’s basketball program. He believes in the administration and wants to build a team for the student body.

After a week to digest the new hire I officially give my endorsement for the Barbee hire.

There’s not a single doubt in my mind that Barbee can find success at CMU. I believe that given a few years the Chippewas can become consistently competitive in the MAC once again.

However, we’re talking about a program that’s gone 497-712 overall and 250-461 in the MAC since 1979, when a gallon of gas was $.90, Van Halen released Van Halen II and we were a year away from learning that Darth Vader was Luke Skywalker’s father.

It’s been that long.

This process will take a while. Any positive results year one will be a blessing in disguise. While some of the talent that remains began to find their stride at the end of last season, CMU loses it’s top two scorers on a team that won six games.

A finish inside the top eight of the MAC would be considered a major win for the program. Anyone who believes that this team can win a MAC title out of the game is sadly misguided, because this rebuild will take time.

I believe Barbee can turn this program around, but when CMU will once again be consistently competitive will be TBD until further notice.

Booher: How Barbee can re-energize men’s team Fixing Central Michigan University’s men’s basketball will not be a one day job for new head coach Tony Barbee.

It appears he knows this, as he alluded to in his first press conference. In past years, the Chippewas have struggled to compete in the Mid-American Conference, resulting in a dismal 3-13 finish in conference play in the 2020-21 season.

Those struggles led to the program ousting Keno Davis after nine seasons. The Chippewas looked down and out at times, despite having plenty of solid roster pieces to work with.

Now it’s up to Barbee to connect those pieces, build a winning program and bring championships back to Mount Pleasant. This will, in turn, bring fans back to the program and into McGuirk Arena.

Here are three things Barbee can do to re-energize the men’s basketball program: Re-invent the identity In the Davis era, the Chippewas had many transcendent talents. The program had three separate players break the MAC’s record for 3-point makes and hosted several big-time guards. The backcourt duo of Marcus Keene and Braylon Rayson combined for nearly 50 points per game in 2016-17, yet the team finished 16-16.

The program was known for lighting up the

scoreboard, commonly known as 3MU. However, those teams struggled to defend and shot just 32 percent from beyond the arc in each of the past two seasons, a mark that hadn’t been seen since CMU’s first season under Davis in 2012-13.

Barbee’s first challenge is finding a balance.

With it’s returning roster, the Chippewas have the talent to defend and play around the rim.

The outside shooting isn’t what it has been, but there is room to improve. With a plethora of big men, CMU should take on the identity of a physical squad.

It’s also important to develop a solid point guard. Barbee has a starting point in senior Devontae Lane that can lead an offense, but his offensive productivity leaves more to be desired. Backup redshirt sophomore guard PJ Mitchell and freshman Ra’Shad Weekly-McDaniels showed promise, but the latter is currently in the transfer portal.

Developing a young point guard and a strong, two-way inside game will make the Chippewas competitive fairly soon.

Broaden recruiting horizons Another staple of Davis’ teams was filling recruiting classes with players from the junior college ranks. Lane is the latest of a slew of point guards to follow the pipeline from JUCO to CMU. While Davis has had his share of hits and

Christian Booher Staff Reporter

misses of transfer players, the latest batch of JUCO transfers have shown flashes of being some of the best – in part because they are a diverse group. The Chippewas have two slashers in junior guards Ralph Bissainthe and Caleb Huffman who can step outside for 3-pointers or attack the basket. Junior Meikkel Murray was a huge hit offensively, but recently entered the transfer portal, and junior Last Chance U star Malik Muhammad showed potential of becoming a solid big man for CMU. But there’s plenty of talent at the high school level. Aundre Polk, one of two freshmen brought in last season, was the first member of the program to make the MAC’s All-Freshman team since Josh Kozinski in 2015 despite playing only 10 games. There were also a plethora of hits in the four-year recruiting during

the Davis era, with Rayson, Kozinski, guard Kevin McKay and forward David DiLeo all as evidence. Role players, such as forward John Simons, also came up through the ranks as four year players.

Bringing in young freshmen provides a coach with four, and sometimes five, years of coaching and developing. Recruiting a young point guard could do wonders for developing the program.

Connect with fan base, community One of the lesser aspects of the program under Davis was the connection to the community. Under Barbee, CMU should take on an identity of a team connected with not only the biggest of fans, but the student body and fan base as a whole.

Barbee made it clear in his opening press conference that collaboration will be a big part of his program, and connecting with those in Mount Pleasant will be pivotal to building the program.

“Just immersing yourself in the community I think goes a long way,” Barbee said. “My family and I are excited to be a part of this Mount Pleasant community.”

If he makes good on that promise, the Chippewas could be competing for championships very soon.

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OPINION |

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My journey from self-hatred to acceptance

By Brianna Woodby Staff Reporter ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– When I was in middle school, I felt extremely bitter toward anyone that was part of the LGBTQ community. That was probably because deep down, I always knew that I was also a part of that community.

I have spent most of my life running from my own sexuality because of the fear that I wouldn’t be accepted. I am finally out as a 21-year-old bisexual woman, and so much of that is because of the freedom I found to claim my identity in college.

The road to self-acceptance has not been easy. I slowly went from being a prepubescent bigot to barely accepting the fact that people could be gay. It was then that people I knew started to come out, and it filled me with a sense of fear.

In my scared, closeted mind I just couldn’t rationalize the way I felt toward some of the girls around me, or how it would make society view me.

It was so much easier to just bury those feelings in a garden of ignorance and watch the fear and denial take root.

I finally accepted myself as bisexual this past summer. While the only “right” time for a person to come out is when they feel comfortable doing so, I wish I would’ve accepted myself sooner instead of battling with

Aurora Rae | Photo Editor

internalized homophobia for so long.

For me, being in quarantine worked as a self-reflective pressure cooker. I felt like I was completely isolated from some of the anesthetizing societal norms and was free to just be myself. After all, what does it matter if you’re gay when the world is collapsing around you?

Over the next six months, I realized that there were parts of me that I had been so afraid to pay attention to and had been burying for far too long.

One of the major things that helped me was the people around me.

When I came out to a friend for the first time, I was so afraid I had to say, “I think I might be bi.” However, that friend reacted in such a supportive and positive way that I felt a burden being lifted from my shoulders that I hadn’t realized was there.

It wasn’t until I was back on the Central Michigan University campus that I realized how many pillars of support were waiting for me in the general community. I love walking

around and seeing “love is love” yard signs downtown, or the LGBTQ facts and encouragement written around campus in chalk because it makes me feel like I have a place.

CMU and the Center for Student Inclusion and Diversity have worked hard to create an environment of acceptance and understanding, which is something that I could have never pictured growing up in my conservative small town.

I’ve gone back and apologized to some of the people who may have been hurt from my behavior when I was afraid and ashamed of who I was. I can’t express the relief of being in an environment where I can put that person behind me and turn over a new leaf.

The way that CMU supports the LGBTQ community through Registered Student Organizations and Pride Month events makes me feel not only accepted but supported.

These events do a great job at being oriented around the fact that what makes people different doesn’t make them less valuable. After being ashamed of a part of me for so long, it’s a message that strikes close to home. It’s that same type of support that allows me to continue to love and accept who I am and not be afraid to be open about it.

I don’t pretend to know everything about myself. I firmly believe we change in small ways every day, but I’m glad that I can continue to grow and learn on a campus where I feel safe to do so.

College sexual harassment culture needs to change I grew up constantly warned by my mother to stay in groups, look over my shoulder and stick with other women. I’m always on edge at night and I consistently carry pepper-spray with me in public.

While sexual harassment has always been a part of my life as a woman, this mistreatment and fear only worsened my first year on Central Michigan University’s campus.

According to a recent study conducted in the United Kingdom, 97 percent of young women have experienced some form of sexual harassment. This study was met with disbelief and controversy on social media, quickly spreading across social platforms.

Many men rejected the study’s accuracy, invalidating the criteria for sexual harassment and making inappropriate jokes about the findings. Users hiding behind blank profiles would often comment, “Let’s get the last 3 percent.”

The phrase “not all men” keep recurring throughout all of this controversy. Men keep insisting that this is an isolated issue unfairly dragging down the entire gender. As a college woman constantly exposed to sexual harassment, I want men to understand that this is a systemic, gender-based epidemic.

Most men at CMU will never have to experi-

Leona Falconer Staff Reporter ence the shame of being catcalled and honked at while walking around campus; the panic of not being able to find your friend at a party full of intoxicated men; the terror of a bigger, older male student inappropriately touching you.

A few weeks ago, I was sitting alone in the Park Library doing homework when I noticed a middle-aged man continuously walking back and forth past my desk. He eventually stopped, shamelessly stared me up and down and called me gorgeous. I was stunned into silence as he walked away, never even formulating a response.

This is not the first time that I was targeted on a college campus, and it won’t be the last.

Last semester, my friend quickly stepped aside to speak to someone, leaving me alone outside of a CMU apartment. A male student ap-

proached me, seizing the opportunity to come on to me alone. As my friend rushed to my aid and announced we were leaving, I was spinning and pushing out of his grasp around my waist.

We know it’s not all men, yet how can we readily trust any man when we continuously face sexual harassment? Many women have had to endure far more traumatizing encounters than myself. The persisting culture of sexual assault and the silencing of abused women has created a gender-based fear. CMU is no exception.

For the men that know they are innocent and would never harass or assault a woman: that isn’t enough. While you can argue it’s not all men, turning a blind eye to friends or classmates that harass or assault women further contributes to this sickening culture.

As we wrap up April, Sexual Assault Awareness Month, I’m calling out the men that have done nothing. These men, especially at CMU, need to actively attack sexual harassment, rather than continue to protect and empower the men preying upon women like myself. Until this culture is destroyed, sexual harassment will be a gender-based issue on college campuses and beyond.

WHAT’S YOUR OPINION? All letters to the editor or guest columns must include a name, address, affiliation (if any) and phone number for verification.

Anonymous letters will not be printed, except under extraordinary circumstances. CM Life reserves the right to edit all letters and columns for style, length, libel, redundancy, clarity, civility and accuracy. Letters should be no more than 450 words in length. Longer guest columns may be submitted but must remain under 750 words. CM Life reserves the right to print any original content as a letter or guest column.

Submission does not guarantee publication.

Send to editor@cm-life.com

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EDITORIAL STAFF

AFTER ALL THAT,

WE MADE IT We’ve a lot faced as a university this past year. It’s time to finish off this semester and pandemic.

Congratulations.

Although it feels like are crawling to the finish line, we are finally in the home stretch of this semester. After spending hours a day in WebEx classes and running back inside to grab a mask, there’s hope of a life post-pandemic.

For almost everyone on campus, reflecting on this year brings back memories of twoweek-long quarantines and swabs being shoved up our nostrils so far it tickles our brains. We have lost a year of attending sports games, Friday nights at the bar, in-class discussions and sharing a smirk with a classmate over something a professor said.

For more than eight months, we’ve tuned into live-streamed classes and events, barely finding the energy to complete homework. To cope, we’ve hung out with the same people every single night and made our way through

EDITORIAL the entire Netflix catalogue.

Even though this year has decimated our college experience, there were some silver linings that kept us going.

We noticed little things returning like the ability to exercise at the SAC, in-person events and regulations lifted on small getherings.

We got college sports back – even if it meant watching from home as the Women’s Basketball team became the MAC champions.

Most importantly, many students, faculty and staff were given the opportunity to receive a

COVID-19 vaccine.

Truth is, there’s still some work to do. Let’s all wear our masks and get vaccinated so in the fall we can come back for a great year, hopefully one with a little more normalcy.

For those of you graduating, go out and do great things with your Central Michigan University diploma and “FIRE UP!” gear.

From all of us here at Central Michigan Life, we want to say thank you. Thank you for helping us tell the story of student life at CMU during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thank you for reading, following, interacting and engaging with us throughout the year.

For coverage throughout the summer, stay tuned on cm-life.com or on Twitter at @ CMLIFE and CM Life on Facebook.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF....................................Isaac Ritchey MANAGING EDITOR....................Michael Livingston ASSOCIATE EDITOR.................... Courtney Pedersen ENGAGEMENT EDITOR..................... Jamie Rewerts PHOTO EDITOR.......................................... Aurora Rae SPORTS EDITOR.................................Austin Chastain COPY EDITOR.....................................Amalia Kalergis MULTIMEDIA EDITORS............................. Ben Ackley Jon Hearth PRESENTATION EDITOR...................Madison Skop REPORTERS............................................Teresa Homsi Ben Jodway Brendan Weisner Makayla Coffee Christian Booher Mitch Vosburg Tess Ware Noah Wulbrecht Leona Falconer Brianna Woodby Barbara Garcia Kathrine Schultz Jill Harrington Patrick Bouman Mia Sikkema Addy Wachtner McKenna Golat

ADVERTISING STAFF ACCOUNT MANAGERS................................ Autumn Reis Ian Gapp Russell Vollick Samantha Sweeting Julia Springer Ainsley Young Emir Bankston Hailey Higgins ______________________________________________ All letters to the editor or guest columns must include a name, address, affiliation (if any) and phone number for verification. Anonymous letters will not be printed, except under extraordinary circumstances. CM Life reserves the right to edit all letters and columns for style, length, libel, redundancy, clarity, civility and accuracy. Letters should be no more than 450 words in length. Longer guest columns may be submitted but must remain under 750 words. Published versions may be shorter than the original submission. CM Life reserves the right to print any original content as a letter or guest column.

Please allow up to five days for a staff response, which will include an expected date of publication. Submission does not guarantee publication.

______________________________________________

Central Michigan Life, the independent voice of Central Michigan University, is edited and published by students of Central Michigan University every Thursday during the fall and spring semesters. The newspaper’s online edition, cm-life.com, contains all of the material published in print, and is updated on an as-needed basis.

Central Michigan Life serves the CMU and Mount Pleasant communities, and is under the jurisdiction of the independent Student Media Board of Directors. Dave Clark serves as Director of Student Media at CMU and is the adviser to the newspaper. Articles and opinions do not necessarily reflect the position or opinions of Central Michigan University. Central Michigan Life is a member of the Associated Press, the Michigan Press Association, the Michigan Collegiate Press Association, the Associated Collegiate Press, College Newspaper Business & Advertising Managers Association, the Mount Pleasant Area Chamber of Commerce, Central Michigan Home Builders Association, Mount Pleasant Housing Association and the Mount Pleasant Downtown Business Association. The newspaper’s online provider is SN Works.

Central Michigan Life is distributed throughout the campus and at numerous locations throughout Mount Pleasant. Non-university subscriptions are $75 per academic year. Back copies are available at 50 cents per copy, or $1 if mailed. Photocopies of stories are 25 cents each. Digital copies of photographs published in Central Michigan Life are available upon request at specified costs.

Central Michigan Life’s editorial and business offices are located at 436 Moore Hall, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI 48859, telephone (989) 774-3493 or 774-LIFE.

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