The Iron Blade: October 2019

October 11, 2019 | Vol. 65, Issue 2

INSIDE Vaping Ban p. 2 E-Term Fair p. 4 Florence v. Dorian p. 5 Sports Previews p. 6 Sports Previews p. 7

f F o a l m l a e H

By AnnGardner Eubank College athletes from all sports try to make the most out of their four years of competition and contribute to their team to the absolute best of their abilities. Athletes put in hours of work from practices, to weight lifting sessions, and outside training to harness and sharpen their skills to better themselves with hopes of beating out their competition.

Millions of athletes compete; many of them contribute to their team’s successes; however, only a small group of athletes who are instrumental to a team’s culture and success - can leave behind a legacy that is remembered years after their final competition.

This year, Ferrum College welcomed back five former athletes whose legacies were undeniably influential and infectious and inducted them into Ferrum’s Athletic Hall of Fame.

On September 21, Ferrum honored and inducted the 2018 Hall of Fame Class during halftime of the football team’s home opener against Averett University. Inductions were comprised of former basketball, softball, and

football players and a cross country runner.

Bruce Gossett, class of 1963, was a kicker and quarterback for the Panthers in 1962 from Rancho Murieta, CA. In 1964, he signed as a free agent to the Los Angeles Rams where he was named to the NFL All-Star Rookie Team. Professionally, Gossett was a kicker on NFL rosters. He competed with the Rams for six seasons in which he kicked a record 120 field goals.

He led the NFL in scoring in 1966 and made the NFL Pro Bowl Selections in the same year and again in 1969. In 1970 he was traded to the San Francisco 49ers where he kicked 99 field goals in five seasons. He competed in six championship competitions, playing in three with each team. When he retired in 1974, he had scored 1031 points in his career, 219 field goals, and 374 PATs. After his retirement, Gossett had a charity golf tournament named after him which he ran for fourteen years which benefited March of Dimes.

Jerry Venable, a 1968 graduate from Staunton, VA, competed with the men’s basketball team

from 1966-68. He earned All-Conference and AllAmerican titles competing with the Panthers in ‘68.

After his time at Ferrum, Venable went on to compete at Kansas State University where he averaged 15.5 points per game over two seasons. He is ranked ninth on KSU’s all-time scoring list. While at KSU, he was named to the All- Big Eight Conference Team. In 1970 he was drafted to the Philadelphia 76ers in the sixth round.

Following his NBA career, he played thirteen years with the Harlem Globetrotters.

After he finished competing, Venable dedicated much of his time to giving back to the community.

He started LOTS, Learning Opportunities Through Sports, a non-profit based in the Staunton area which works towards bettering the lives of local youth through athletic and academic activities. He has taught and coached in high schools in Charlottesville, has been Vice President of Little League Baseball, and is the CEO of “Staunton Education Foundation” which promotes athletics and academia to children in the Staunton school

system.

Another basketball player, Kevin Keatts of Cary, NC, was inducted for his success for the Panthers from 1992-95. The ‘95 graduate was a freshman guard in the ‘92 season in which the Panthers won both the Dixie Regular Season title and the Dixie Tournament title. That same season was the first time the program advanced to the NCAA tournament.

Keatts went on to lead Ferrum in taking two more Dixie Conference titles in ‘93 and ‘95. He averaged 13.3 points per game during his senior season and scored a career high 30 points in a double overtime victory against Maryville that same year.

Keatts served as an assistant coach to the team his first year after graduating before serving as an assistant coach at Soutwestern Michigan College from 1966-67. He also coached for ten seasons at Hargrave Military Academy in Danville, VA, where he coached an impressive 263-17 record. From 200103, Keatts served as an assistant coach at Marshall University, and served as an assistant coach at the University of Louisville

in 2011-13. Keatts was named the head coach at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington in 2014 and lead the team to the 2016 and 2017 NCAA tournaments. He has been the head coach at North Carolina State since 2017.

Lalita Brim-Poindexter from Salem graduated from Ferrum in 2004 after a very decorated four year cross country career with the Panthers. She is one of five Ferrum athletes ever to be named to the USA South All Conference Team all four years of competition. Wearing the title of student athlete, she earned USA South Academic All Conference in 2001, 2002, and 2003. She earned all-state recognitions all four years as well.

She lead Ferrum to four team titles and lead the team to USA South team runner-up finishes each season as well.

After completing her bachelor’s degree from Ferrum, Brim-Poindexter graduated from law school in 2007. She is now the owner of her own firm Poindexter Law, LLC. - in Salem, and has practiced law with City of Roanoke twenty-third Judicial Circuit, Caldwell Practice,

and GEICO Staff Council.

Stacy Porter, a 2006 graduate from Radford left her mark on the softball field as a four-year team member from 2002-05.

Porter led the Panthers not only to USA South tournament titles, but to NCAA playoffs as well in 2002 and 2005. As a pitcher, she holds the school record for season strikeouts, with 242 during her freshman season, and was named USA South Rookie Pitcher of the Year and USA South South Softball Tournament MVP that same season. She was named to the NCAA Regional All-Tournament Team, First Team All-State (‘02), First Team All- Conference (‘02,’03), USA South All Tournament Team (‘04), and 2nd Team All-Conference (‘04). Porter also earned the Ferrum Batting title in 2002 with a batting average of .380 and still holds the school record for strikeouts with a total of 504. Porter now has three sons and has a career in sales.

Each of these inductees left their mark from their time at Ferrum, and will forever be remembered in one of the highest honors an athlete could receive.

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The Iron Blade

October 11, 2019

OPINION

Word on The Street: Trump’s Vaping Ban

“I honestly don’t think vaping is that serious , personal I don’t do it but I think there’s no harm in it and if someone chooses to do it that’s their business and their choice, it beats people smoking cigarettes.”

“I think it’s beneficial to all young adolescents that are getting into electronic cigarrettes.”

--Victoria Wagner, junior

-- Timira McCray, freshman

99 Problems...

VAPING IS A BIG ONE!

By Diamond Hudson

Recently there have been deaths all over the country as a result of vaping. What was commonly once thought as a safer substitute for cigarettes, vaping has become just as addictive and deadly. As of Sept.

24, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention has reported 805 cases of vape related illnesses that affect the lungs throughout 46 states and one territory.

The population that has been affected by the vaporizer have primarily been between the ages of 15 and 51 years old. The actual cause of the outbreak is unknown. All e-cigarettes come in a variety of flavors such as mint or maple sugar.

There are currently 47 states that created a ban prior to the Trump Administration. The purpose of the new proposal is to create a tighter restriction against teenagers. As of September, the state of Michigan became the first state to place a flavored e-cigarettes prohibition. The following states, such as New York, Massachusetts, and California are considering similar policies.

According to the Health and Human Services Secretary stated that a plan would be outlined in the weeks to come to remove the e-cigarettes and nicotine pods from the market. This plan would also include flavored tobacco. This ban which was a result of the growing health risks and concerns is also being promoted by academic and health officials who are concerned with the alarming increase of vape usage primarily among teenagers.

Juul, a popular electronic cigarette company, has denied that its company has been soliciting and targeting minors. The main reason they became a popular device is due to the fact that the Juul is small and sleek, which makes them easy to conceal. The F.D.A issued the company a warning letter that accused them of violating federal regulations by promoting the idea that the Juul was a healthier option than cigarettes.

As Juul is beginning to have to pull their product from the shelves, “Juul-look-alikes” are replacing them. As a company, Juul is trying to clean up its reputation. During this ban-construction time, the company is trying to convince the public that its target market is not minors.

“I feel like the ban is making things worse because now kids are making their own juice nd thats why people are dying.”

--Camryn Holt, senior

“There’s good and bad to it. If you are a previous smoker then vaping can help you cut down.

But if you didn’t smoke but you might want to vape because it’s seen as not bad. But occurring to recent studies there are a lot of problems with it. Yes for the people who don’t smoke, and no for the people who do. I still think cigarettes are a lot worse than vaping”

“I believe the ban should be in place until there’s further research to determine more long term effects.”

--Dr.Matyus, business professor

@ibladef @the.iron.blade

-- Massimo Cirignaco, freshman

Ferrum College 215 Ferrum Mountain Rd. Ferrum, VA 24088 IBlade@Ferrum.edu

Editor: AnnGardner Eubank News Editor: Mary Stoudt Sports Editors: Sam May Frances Best

Layout Editor: Diamond Hudson Social Media Editor: Destinee Nelson Staff: Lindsey Foster Caroline King

Joshua Reeves Kieran Sawyer Advisor: Dr. Mingxiao Sui

The Ferrum College Iron Blade Newspaper is a student-written, student-managed, and studentproduced newspaper. Opinions do not necessarily express the views of all students or the staff.

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The Iron Blade

Inqu

By Mary Stoudt

n i r i g

This semester, the Student Government Association (SGA) held elections for the remaining positions for the cabinet, as well as the Freshmen and Junior class representatives.

Senior Courtney Moyer was elected as SGA Secretary and Sophomore Tahmel Ballard was elected as SGA Treasurer.

The Freshmen class representatives are: President Timira McCray, Vice President Yasmine Love, Secretary Sierra Miller, and Treasurer Kayla Cabiness. The Junior class representatives are: President Mary Stoudt, Vice President Allison Kurfees, Secretary Christian Haley, and Treasurer Tavazigee Rodgers.

“I’m honored to represent the junior class and excited to be a part of positive change on campus,” Haley said.

On Sept. 27 the SGA Cabinet was formally inducted in the Virginia Room.

“The induction ceremony went really well! We have a lot planned for this school year and are excited to make changes around the campus.

We’re always open to suggestions from students and even faculty and staff on how to improve Ferrum,” said SGA President Mikayla Moreno.

As the semester continues, SGA will continue to make changes on campus and plan The 2019-2020 SGA Cabinet events for the Ferrum community to enjoy.

By Mary Stoudt

Mi

Did You Go Out and Vote?: SGA Elections

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nds

October 11, 2019

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This year the 2019-2020 Inquiring Minds series began on September 25 with Dr. Jason Matyus (Assistant Professor of Business) presenting.

Matyus presented The Trade War Between the U.S. and China: Can Anyone Be a Winner?. Using his business background, Matyus was able to present the facts and figures on the current trade war between the U.S. and China and how it exactly happened.

For the past 9 to 10 months the trade war between the U.S. and China has continued to cause tensions. But, before the trade war happened, other events took place leading the two countries to the war.

During the 1980’s most imports to the U.S. were from Japan until Japan had a recession during the late 1980’s and 1990’s. Following Japan’s recession the U.S. imported from Taiwan and Hong Kong before replacing these countries with China in the 2000’s.

Currently the U.S. imports more than it exports to China and currently in debt with China. It is important to note, however, that China is considered an emerging market, so the U.S. also gives China foreingn aid.

An emerging market means an economy has a lower than average per capita income, slow economic growth, high volatility, current swings, and potential for growth. Even though China is considered an emerging market they have a 12 trillion dollar economy and is ranked second out of the top five economies.

By Diamond Hudson, Destinee Nelson With all of this in mind, Matyus had three quesFerrum College senior, Darrian Marshall, lives a life tions for attendees to consider: Why do we have a that is anything but ordinary. Growing up, he lived with problem, how did it happen, and where do we go his grandparents who introduced him to Soultrain and from here?

Michael Jackson, which he has been a fan since he was Currently the trade war is still on going without 10-years-old. Throughout his college career, he has an end in sight. The U.S. continues to import from embraced his talents of being a triple threat. Marshall has China since the U.S. does not have the economic been acting, singing, and dancing ever since he was a stability to become a manufacturing economy young boy. again.

“I’ve been watching Micheal Jackson since I was ten and The session wrapped up after an open discusmy grandparents introduced me to Soul Train since I lived sion where students and staff shared their opinions with them,” Marshall said. on the trade war. As the semester continues there His first talent show was in the fifth grade and the first will be more Inquiring Minds sessions. The next musical he was a part of happened when he was in the session is Why Is the CDC Warning “Don’t Kiss a eighth grade. It was after that when Marshall decided he Chicken”? Biosecurity, Midterm Exams, and You wanted to pursue a career in performing arts. and is taking place Wednesday October 9.

In the past four years at Ferrum College, he has inspired many people through his creativity and ambition.

One of the best projects that he has worked on is “The Empowerment Concert.” The Empowerment Concert is produced and co-created by Marshall. His goal was to develop his own outside at the Hart International Plaza on the Ferlive performance to impact his college community in a positive way. rum College Campus. The concert included two “I had this idea for two years to start a new performance on campus beopening acts, a video projector on each side, and cause I felt that the campus was lacking ethnic diversity,” Marshall said. multiple stage lights.

The Empowerment Concert has been one of the most successful events “The projectors were an idea by Michael Van, at Ferrum College and was split into three parts.

Head of Ferrum Production Events. He said he “At first I was going to call it women empowerment, but I felt that everycould make it happen and I contacted him in May one needed some empowerment now, so both men and women could be and we kept meeting up from then,” Marshall included,” he said said, “He mentioned the Hart Plaza because of its The first Empowerment Concert made its debut in December 2017. The flat surface.” concert included music, dance, inspiration, and a number of positive This particular performance was different from energy. The second concert was performed in January 2018. The concert the rest of Marshall’s shows solely because of the series was supposed to end after the Empowerment Two, but Marshall’s visual effects and the different venue. team secretly had other plans. His co-creation team persuaded him to put “It was outside and the campus has limited acon one last concert for his senior year. That’s how the last installment, tivities. It is also a student-led performance. They “The Empowerment Concert: The Trilogy” was born. knew what to expect from me because they came Marshall admitted that after the second concert he didn’t want to do a to my previous shows but it was very different,” third, but he quickly realized that he missed performing.

Marshall said.

“After the second one I was done. I was so tired. I didn’t want to dance Unfortunately, this is the last show that will and sing anymore. I wanted a break. After my hiatus I wanted to do it be presented by Marshall Productions. He will again. After I saw the dance recital I felt empty and was like ‘Let me just be performing, however, in the upcoming play, get back into it,’ and my team convinced me to do it and I fell in love,” A Christmas Carol, as the lead, Scrooge. There Marshall said. may possibly be an alumni performance after he Overall it took six months to prepare for the Trilogy. Marshall decided graduates if Ferrum decides to splurge for the to take it up a notch with the last concert. The Trilogy was performed next homecoming or Spring Fling.

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Empowerment Triology: Curtain Call

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The Iron Blade

NEWS

October 11, 2019

Meet the New Dean: Dr. Angie Dahl

By Sam May

Over the summer Ferrum College saw some changes to its faculty, with some members of staff being moved and placed into new positions.

One of these new positions that was created was the Dean of Health Professions and Social Sciences. The job position was taken up by current faculty member, Dr. Angie Dahl.

The new job gave Dahl many more responsibilities, however, she is excited to see what opportunities she will create for the students, herself, and Ferrum.

“I am enjoying the new position, I’m new to it so I am learning a lot and growing. I’m excited about the opportunities that we are creating for our students and the possibilities that lie ahead,” said Dahl.

In her new position Dahl will have many new responsibilities that will not only just involve Ferrum but also the wider community as well.

“In this position I have the opportunity to work with the faculty of the ten programs in the School of Health Professions and Social Sciences to develop their programs, find new opportunities for our students, support students and faculty, and make relationships within the wider communities we serve,” said Dahl.

There were a few changes that happened at Ferrum which in many cases could cause time for adjustment or problems, however, Dahl feels

Photo credit: Ferrum College.

it will allow faculty to work in a much more efficient way.

“The programs that are included in the School of Health Professions and Social Sciences makes sense to me. We are all bonded by a common goal of serving the human public. In the social sciences side, this is through training students to be law enforcement professionals, teachers, social workers, graduate students in counselling, individuals working in the public

service sector, leaders in recreation and tourism, and other human service positions. In the health professions side, we are training students for careers in healthcare, fitness, wellness and more.

The reorganization allows faculty in the School of Health Professions and Social Sciences to work more efficiently, and across programs to develop strong programs to ultimately benefit our students,” said Dahl.

With the new changes, the faculty at Ferrum College are trying to come up with the best ideas and options for the students by trying to benefit them in the best ways they possibly can when choosing a career path.

“Within our school, there is a lot of creativity and energy being shared across programs.

Program faculty are talking about how they can work across programmes to provide the best opportunity for our students interested in a particular career path. Programs are being revised, new programs are being proposed, and discussions are occurring to make sure we are providing the best possible educational and experiential opportunities for our students. While change can be hard at times, it also provides a ‘shake up’ that results in increased creativity, movement and growth.” said Dr Dahl.

Dr Dahl hopes this new efficiency will help the faculty and herself to build for Ferrum and its students future.

E Term Fair

By Mary Stoudt

Dr. Daniels enjoying showing students his new E-Term. Photo Credit - Dr. Sui.

The annual E-Term (Experiential Term) fair took place September 24.

The fair provided students with an understanding of what E-Term is and what classes are being offered for the 2020 term.

Every student at Ferrum College is required to take an E-Term in order to graduate. E-Terms allow students to have direct hands on experiences and actively participate in the course they’re in.

Ferrum offers on campus and off campus E-Terms each May. Some of this year’s on campus E-Terms include- COM 21-E :Radio Broadcasting Methods, COM 390-E: Multiculturalism and Media, CJU 375: Crime Scene Photography, SCI 201-E: Food Science, and a few more.

In addition to on campus E-Terms the off campus E-Terms this year

Dr Nicholson presenting his Crime Scene Photography E-Term to a student. Photo credit - Dr Sui.

Dr. Hanlon promoting her World Photos and Literature E - Term. Photo Credit - Dr. Sui.

are- HIS 383: Caribbean Environmental History, ART 217: Introduction to Photography, ART 317: Intermediate Photography, ART 417: Advanced Photography, HIS 497: LatinX Homelands in Mexico, SPA 451: Directed Study: Contemporary Mexican Culture, ESC 205: Tropical and Marine Ecology, and ESC 208: Ireland’s Natural History: Interaction of Nature and Culture.

Each E-Term allows a student to receive credit for the class they’re in. Not all E-Terms cost the same and some require prerequisites, more information regarding E-Term can be found online at www.ferrum.edu or by emailing Dr. Patricia Sagasti Suppes at psuppes@ferrum.edu.

A Display of the World Photos and Literature E - Term. Photo credit - Mary Stoudt.

October 11, 2019

The Iron Blade

Page 5

Hurricanes Strike Again

By Mary Stoudt

Photo Credit:

By Mary Stoudt From an overreaction to no reaction at all, two hurricanes, Dorain and Florence, both of which occurred around the same time of year, had two very different reactions from Ferrum College.

As many remember, last year, Hurricane Florence was predicted to wreak havoc throughout the southern states including Virginia. Initially, Florence was supposed to hit the Carolinas as a Category 4 or 5 storm and work its way inland through Virginia. As time progressed, Florence downgraded and hit North Carolina as a Category 1 storm and made its way up to Virginia as a tropical storm.

Ferrum made immediate preparations once Florence had been upgraded to a Category 4 hurricane. With the storm posing a major threat to Ferrum, the college announced that the students would receive an early dismissal (in order to go home if desired) and follow a distance-learning technology plan. Following the two days of the distancelearning technology plan, Ferrum remained closed for an additional three days.

The damages that occurred in and around Ferrum because of Florence included minor flooding. Students were

still able to go to the dining hall to eat and carry out their normal weekend activities.

Hurrican Florence and Dorian: Photo Courtsey of Nasa

Junior Dakota Fletcher was an RA on duty and was ready to assist when needed and additionally was given a flashlight in case the power went out.

“Nothing happened so I just had an ice cream social for residents,” Fletcher said.

In regards to Hurricane Dorian, no plans were made by the college. Classes continued and students stayed on

Changing Lanes: A “Major” Decision

By Lindsey Foster Once a chemistry professor, Dr. Jason Powell has recently been named the Dean of Arts and Sciences. Each academic program has one or more professors who oversee the school and interdisciplines and are known as Program Coordinators. Powell’s job is to oversee each program in those the School of Arts and Sciences. Powell oversees a wide variety of studies, from agriculture to theatre.

Now that Powell is in a higher position, his responsibilities have increased. Most professors might teach four classes a semester, are on a committee or two, and advise several students. In order for Powell to amply perform his duties as a Dean, Powell has been assigned to teach just one class this semester.

Powell also attends more meetings than before. If professors are discussing potentially changes to their programs, he will be present in whatever meetings occur in relation to said changes. Powell hears ideas from professors as well as give feedback and guidance to those ideas.

“Now that I’m overseeing all the different programs, I get to talk about theatre with Professor Ritorto and Professor Crocker, and all kinds of cool things. Then I talk to Jake Smith about art stuff, talk to Dr. Matyus about business stuff and just all kinds of different things,” said Powell.

According to Powell, his job is more Photo Credit: Lindsey Foster scattered compared to when he was a just a professor. As a professor, he knew that his main priority was to help his students learn and understand core concepts and materials. If there was one thing he could change about the job, it would be more time to teach.

“It’s almost a little more random. I have to be very careful to manage my time so that I do all the things that I need to do well,” said Powell.

As a dean, he still has teaching as a part of his job, but also gets to help other professors help their students. Because of this, he needs to think critically and tactfully.

As for the rest of the school year, next week Dr. Montesinos is launching a monthly recital series. Ferrum also has grant related ideas for undergraduates. There is the research side for sciences and humanities while there’s also the creative side of academia with performances and creating works of art.

“We want to bring all of that together to have a campus wide-show to talk about the different kinds of work that students do and a little bit from professors too,” said Powell.

Powell is working on generating concepts and ideas for new programs considering how Ferum is expanding its degree offerings for online graduates. All the programs included in the School of Arts and Sciences are looking at what kind of new programs might develop in the future for online graduate programs.

campus. Hurricane Dorian made landfall in the Bahamas September 1 as the most powerful hurricane the island had ever seen.

Following landfall on the Bahamas, the storm worked its way up the United States’ Eastern Coast. On September 5 Dorian finally made direct landfall on the US in North Carolina instead of the originally predicted Florida. Florida felt the effects of Dorian’s outer band.

When Dorian hit North Carolina, it was downgraded to a Category 1 hurricane with winds at 90 miles per hour. The storm caused major flooding throughout the Outer Banks along with multiple power outages and damages to homes and businesses. Before Dorian even hit North Carolina, multiple tornadoes touched down causing damages throughout towns.

Junior Mikayla Moreno lives in North Carolina and experienced Florence as well as Dorain.

“While hurricanes can be devastating and scary, Dorian was not that bad when it reached North Carolina [in the area where I live]. However, the high winds and flooding still affected many people because we’re still trying to recover from last year,” Moreno said.

As hurricane season continues, more hurricanes could potentially pose a threat to the East Coast. What Ferrum will do in response to future hurricanes is a mystery.

Dr. David Wiggins: Dean of Student Success

By Mary Stoudt When you first worked at Ferrum, (during the 90’s) what did you do?

I was the counselor at the college and saw students for individual and group counseling.

When did you leave Ferrum?

I left Ferrum College after two years in 1997 to take a job at Jefferson College of Health Sciences in Roanoke Photo Credit: Ferrum College. where I worked for over eleven years. I started there as an adjunct faculty member teaching psychology and then became the college counselor. After seven years, I became the Associate Dean for Student Services.

When did you go back to get your doctorate and what did you focus on?

I was working at Woodrow Wilson Rehabilitation Center as a counselor and case manager for clients who had brain injuries. I left there in 1991 to pursue a doctorate in counseling from Virginia Tech. My dissertation was on developing a structured treatment approach to working with individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

After obtaining your doctorate what did you do, or did you come right back to Ferrum?

After obtaining my doctorate in 1995 I was busy as a new dad with my son who was born a month after I graduated. I worked several jobs teaching counseling in the West Virginia college system as an Employee Assistance Counselor and in my private practice.

What brought you back to Ferrum College?

Ferrum College is a wonderful place to work. I love the mission of the college and really enjoyed working here in the 1990’s. So much has changed since I left and yet so much remains the same. The administration, faculty and staff continue to be very caring and dedicated to the success of the students. It is that mission, spirit and dedication which brought me back.

What are you currently doing at Ferrum College?

I have been hired to be the Dean of Academic Success which is a new position at the college. My job will be to work with the College as a whole and specifically with the staff of the Academic Resource Center to develop academic support services, programming and initiatives to improve student success. It is an exciting opportunity and I look forward to finding new and better ways to help students.

What do you plan on doing in the future at Ferrum College?

There are many opportunities here at the college to create or improve upon existing services. Some of the goals which I am investigating include looking at how we can better our advising and early alert systems and researching “best practices” at other colleges and universities and collaborating with other programs and departments.

Other goals I’m investigating include working with appropriate college personnel to improve new student orientation as well as identifying and writing grants to improve academic resources for our students.

What’s one thing you would like the students, faculty or staff reading this to know about you?

For fun I like to rehab older homes. I am working on my fifth home. I also enjoy hiking, making music and reading history and eastern philosophy.

Sports

Page 6

The Iron Blade

October 11, 2019

Men’s Golf in Full Swing

By Frances Best

As the season hits its midway point for Men’s Golf, returning players and coaches are able to compare this seasons success rate to last years. Returning player, Hunter Shelton, is a junior on the men’s golf team and feels that this season is better than last years, “I feel the season is going good. We have some things to improve on and overcome. But overall we have improved tremendously from last year,” said Shelton.

Shelton feels that the freshman still lack the experience that the returning players have but feel that they will adjust more as time goes on, “I think the freshmen just need some collegiate experience under their belt. It’s hard to dive into a new world head first and expect to be great,” said Shelton.

The golf team has seen success at the Green Turtle Invitational where they placed third out of twelve teams, “I enjoyed the Green Turtle Invitational in Winchester. It’s always a very fun event. I am looking forward to playing in the tournament at Camp Lejeune in NC. It’s a great tournament on a military base. We get to play with a veteran and see their outlook on things,” said Shelton.

Shelton feels they are successful because the team works well together and their ability to be there for each other is one of their biggest strengths, “Some of the biggest strengths are we have each others backs through good and bad times. We are always there for one another,” said Shelton.

Looking forward, Shelton feels that as the season continues to move forward, the team will continue to improve, “Everyone is doing well. We are getting stronger and better overtime. We are looking for big things to happen the rest of the season,” said Shelton.

The men’s golf team competes again on October 14th in the VSGA State Intercollegiate at the Blacksburg Country Club in Blacksburg, VA.

Women’s Golf Tee It Up

By Joshua Reeves On Sept. 23 and 24, the women’s golf team traveled to Harrisonburg for the Bridgewater Invitational Tournament.

During the tournament the Panthers saw improvements from the first tournament, having shot 20 strokes better. On the Glenrochie course, the Panthers said they saw improvement when it came to shooting on the greens, “The greens were fast at this course. This was a challenge for us because we have been struggling around the greens, but we overcame the challenge and finished strong,” said Caroline King.

The following weekend the Panthers traveled to Abingdon to play in the first ever Wasp Invitational. Jetta Huffman finished 10th overall and shot an 82 in round one, Hunter Tharpe shot an 84 during round two and also had two birdies, and overall the team finish in 4th place.

Their next match will be on October 21 and 22 in Rome, GA where they will play in the Chick-fil-A Invitational.

Sophmore Hunter Tharpe takes a swing.

Photo Courtesy of Ferrum College Athletics.

Cross Country Coasts

By Sam May

The Panther’s Cross Country Teams have been involved in four different events this season, with two more events still to come. The men and women will run again on October 19 and finally round off the season with the ODAC Championships on November 2. In the Panthers last event at the Hagan Stone XC Classic, the men finished first overall while the women placed in third.

Freshman for the women’s team, Genesis Pineiro, was the Panther’s top runner in the Hagan Stone XC Classic. She feels the season has been going well so far. “So far i feel the season has been going good.

I’m personally getting better in every meet, doing a better time in my 5k and 6k, but also as a team there has been some progress in every athlete,” said Pineiro.

After the men’s strong performance and the women’s hard work in the last event, the Panthers are aiming to push themselves even more and be their best in the next two events. “The aims for our last events as a team is first to do our best by trying to get a better time, and second, to help each other to get better. One of the other girls and myself run at the same pace, so we run together to help push each other,” said Pineiro.

The Cross Country teams have been

involved in a lot of events this season and have had some good placements throughout, including some favorites from some of the team. “So far my favorite event has been the last one in Hagan Stone Park, NC. The girls ran 5k and the boys ran 8k.

It’s been my favorite because the course was very flat and down hill and this was also my best time in 5k this season,” said Pineiro.

The men and women’s coss country teams will both be in action again on Oct. 19 at the Gettysburg Invitational.

Freshman Jacob Holley teeing off.

Photo courtesy of Ferrum College Athletics.

Continuing the Fight

By AnnGardner Eubank

The Women’s Volleyball Team has had a rocky season so far with an overall record of 3-14, and so far going 0-7 in the ODAC. The team has been able to earn a pair of victories in nail biting finishes against Mary Baldwin during the Maroon Classic on Sept. 6 and again in a home match on the 19.

The team also earned a 3-1 win over Regent University in a home match on Sept. 22. The Lady Panthers have fallen to several ODAC power-house teams in the past couple of weeks including Washington and Lee University, Bridgewater College, and Randolph College. Head Coach Ruthann Duffy and her team are still young and building. With four new freshmen and two transfers, the team is still coming together to create cohesion and unity. Duffy has been experimenting with the line-up, including having a middle blocker play all around, which is highly uncommon.

The team has been battling and will continue Freshman, Molly Patterson jumps for the to face tough teams in the coming month. ball. Photo courtesy of Ferrum College The squad will be travelling to Virginia WesAthletics. leyan University on Oct. 12, and will host Eastern Mennonite in a home match Tuesday Oct. 15.

2019 Volleyball Schedule Sat. 12, Va. Wesleyan, 11:00 am (away) Tue. 15, East. Mennonite, 7:00 pm (home) Thurs. 17, Christendom, 6:30 pm (away) Sat. 19, Roanoke, 11:00 am (home) Sat. 19, Randolph-Macon, 3:00 pm (home) Tue. 22, Johnson & Wales, 7:00 pm (away) Fri. 25, Lynchburg, 6:30 pm (home) Tue. 29, Piedmont International, 7:00 pm (home) Thurs. 31, William Peace, 7:00 pm (away)

Women’s Cross Country runners prepare to compete.

October 11, 2019

The Iron Blade

Hustle, Hit, & Never Quit!

en’s Soccer m o W

By AnnGardner Eubank

2019 Field Hockey Schedule October

Fri. 11 Va. Wesleyan (Home)

By Joshua Reeves

Thu. 17 East. Mennonite (Away) - Harrisonburg, VA Fri. 18 Bridgewater College (Away) - Bridgewater, VA Wed. 23 Roanoke (Home) Fri. 25 Sweet Briar (Home) Wed. 30 Lynchburg College (Away)

Men’s Soccer

By Caroline King

The Ferrum Men’s Soccer Team currently stands with a record of 8-3. This year the team has added 21 freshmen to their roster. These freshmen have earned a total of 22 goals. During their Oct. 5 ODAC matchup against Shenandoah University, Ferrum only took 12 shots compared to Shenandoah’s 21 and still took the 2-1 victory in overtime. Another accomplishment that Ferrum had was a 7-6 advantage in the corners. One player standing out for the men’s team is freshman Pol Lambea. Lambea’s goal in the 14th minute of their game against the Johnson & Wales Wildcats showed to be the difference for the Panthers, ensuring them the win. Leading the team’s goal count is freshman Felipe Artega. Artega has a total of 6 of the teams 36 goals. The men will play their next home game on Wednesday October 23rd against Bridgewater College.

2019 Men’s Soccer Schedule

- Lynchburg, VA

October

November

Cayla Berry

Sat. 12 Va. Wesleyan (Home)

Sat. 2 Randolph-Macon (Away) - Ashland, VA Tue. 5 ODAc Tournament Quarterfinals The Ferrum Field Hockey Team’s 2019 season is in full swing under the leadership of Coach Carrie Austin.

The Panthers had a tough start to their season, losing five consecutive games before earning their first win of the season in a home match against Hood College on Sept. 22. The team was able to spark a two-game winning streak with their 2-0 victory on the road against Southern Virginia University on the 24.

The Panthers followed their short-lived winning spree with three consecutive losses, including their ODAC conference opener against Shenandoah University where they fell 11-0. The team has been on the road a lot this season, including trips to Pennsylvania and Maryland, but will be hosting more home games as the season continues.

The Field Hockey Team will be competing against ODAC powerhouses like Roanoke College, Lynchburg University, and Washington and Lee University within the next couple of weeks.

The fairly young team, stacked with four freshmen and seven sophomores, are following in the leadership of the team’s five juniors, who serve as the most experienced veterans on the team since there aren’t any seniors this season.

The Lady Panthers will be back in action Oct. 9 in a home match against Washington and Lee University at 7 p.m.

The Ferrum Women’s Soccer Team has had a successful season thus far. The Panthers are 7-2-1, including a win against Maryville, who Ferrum has never beaten up until this season. However, with success comes struggle.

“Our main problem so far has been keeping everyone healthy. We’ve had injuries such as ACL tears and concussions that have set our team back,” said junior Cayla Berry.

After starting off strong in non-conference play, the Panthers kept the victories rolling, remaining undefeated in the ODAC. The team competed in their conference opener at Hollins University on Sept. 27 where they took a 3-0 win. Senior Frances Best scored two goals in the match and freshman Melina Turner scored as well.

The Panthers kept the strak alive with a 2-0 victory iover Emory & Henry in a home match on Oct. 2, with goals scored by junior Casey Raggett.

On Oct. 5 the team shut out Sweet Briar with a blowout victory scoring six goals to their zero.

Seniors Frances Best and Kayla Lentini, juniors Tori Wagner, Alex Mattson, and and Gabby Kermon all but numbers on the board.

“Our goal is to win as many games as possible in order to get the best seed so we can compete for a championship,” said Berry.

The Panthers will be hosting Bridgewater College for their homecoming matchup Saturday Oct. 12.

Football Recap

Wed. 16 East. Mennonite (Away)

- Harrisonburg, VA Sat. 19 Hampden-Sydney (Away)

- Hampden-Sydney, VA

Sat. 26 Randolph-Macon (Home)

2019 Swim Team Schedule October Sat. 12 ODAC Relays (12:00pm) Fri. 25 Emory & Henry and William Peace (5:00pm) November Sat. 2 Greensboro, Randolph, and Guilford (1:00pm)

2019 Women’s Soccer Schedule

Fri. 15 at Bridgewater w/ Southern Virginia (4:00pm)

October

Sat. 23-24 Mid-Season Invitational

Fri. 11 Va. Bridgeweater College (Home)

-Cary, NC (All Day)

Tue. 15 Lynchburg College (Home)

By Joshua Reeves After starting their season with a 55-7 win against Greensboro College, Ferrum fell to Averett in a home competition on Hall of Fame weekend with a score of 35-12, bringing them to a 1-1

record.

“The team has had issues keeping everyone healthy.

We have a lot of people sidelined with injury, including myself. If we can keep everyone healthy there’s a possibility we can have a great season,” said freshman Jacquez Younger. After two non-conference games, the Blackhats hosted Randolph-Macon in their ODAC opener for the season, falling to the Yellow Jackets 3110, and fell to Washington and Lee 30-10 Oct. 5.

“Despite the slow start, we hope that we do well enough in the regular season to compete for a championship,” said Younger. The Panthers will be hosting Guilford the 12 for the Homecoming game.

Wed. 23 Bridgewater (Home)

Janruary

Sat. 19 East. Mennonite (Away)

Jacquez Younger, Freshman

Page 7

- Harrisonburg, VA Wed. 23 Randolph College (Away)

Sat. 11 at Virginia Wesleyan (12:00pm) Fri. 17 Hollins and Sweet Briar (6:00pm)

- Lynchburg, VA

Sat. 25 Lynchburg (1:00pm)

Sat. 26 Va. Wesleyan (Home)

February

Wed. 30 Roanoke College (Away)

Thu. 6-9 ODAC Championships (All Day)

- Salem, VA November Sat. 2 Randolph-Macon (Home)

2019 Football Schedule October Sat. 12 Guilford (Home) Sat. 19 Bridgewater College (Away) - Bridgewater, Va Sat. 26 Southern Virginia (Home)

November Sat. 2 Shenadoah (Home) Sat. 9 Hampden-Sydney (Away) - Hampden-Sydney, VA Sat. 16 Emory & Henry (Away) - Emory, VA

Page 8

The Iron Blade

October 11, 2019

Panther Briefs

The Spotlight is on:

Layura Henley

By Diamond Hudson

Pictured above: Senior, Layura Henley stops by a phone booth in London for a quick picture.

Layura Henley, who will be graduating this May, is a triple threat on campus. She is triple-majoring in PreProfessional Science, Biology, and Health Sciences, while also having two minors in Chemistry and Psychology.

Henley has no plans on slowing down upon graduation, however. She plans on continuing her education and persuing a doctorate degree.

“I plan on going to medical school and eventually becoming a neurosurgeon,” Henley said.

When she is not studying and learning in Garber Hall, she can be found on the volleyball court or participating in a Theta Gamma Omega event. Henley is very active and involved within the Ferrum community. Not only is Henley a middle blocker and a captain for the Ferrum volleyball team, she is also serving as the president of Theta Gamma Omega (OGO) for a third semester.

Henley has held several other leadership roles on campus, such as Vice President of Ferrum Greek Council, Vice President of the Tri Beta Biological Honors Society, and Senior Class Vice President.

“I want to be as involved on campus as possible,” said Henley.

The educational opportunity was not the only reason she chose to study at Ferrum. She made Ferrum her second home so she could continue playing volleyball competetively.

“I came here to continue my passion for volleyball,” said Henley.

While at Ferrum, she has earned several different titles and accolades. Henley has earned recognitions for the USA South Academic All-Conference, ODAC Academic All-Conference, and has also earned a spot on the Dean’s List each semester of her college career. Henley has even earned a spot on the President’s List for acheiving 4.0 status for several semesters. Henley wants to leave behind a legacy for the following generations to work hard and honestly and striving to put forth maximum effort and energy.

“I want to leave behind a legacy of determination, perseverance, and love for the community,” Henley said.

Growing Diversity

By Destinee Nelson

Ferrum College has welcomed a diverse group of new students for the 2019 Fall Semester. According to the registrars’ office, there is a total of 355 incoming freshmen and 42 new transfer students. Ferrum’s International Program has also brought in several new faces from around the world. While Ferrum may be a small liberal arts college in rural Virginia, their outreach is global and inclusive.

Courtney Bowles: Transfer student from JMU. Major: Psychology Minor: Social Work Quote: “Coming from a large school like James Madison has been quite the transition. I like that Ferrum’s Leo Galpin, Felipe Arteaga, and Jose Ricardo Bonifasi. class sizes are so much smaller because I feel like I can Photo cred: Destinee Nelson actually have a relationship with my professors. At JMU, Leo Galpin: England Felipe Arteaga: the professors seemed to be driven more by their own (Transfer International Colombia, Soccer Team. research and interests whereas here our professors are Student) Soccer Team, Major: Business more invested in their students’ education and success.”

Freshman.

Minor: Marketing Jordan Knight: Sophomore Major: Criminal Justice Quote: “I feel like it’s a Major: Cyber Security Minor: Spanish very familial environment.

Minor: Business Quote: “ I felt like it’s Everyone knows each Quote: “My experience at Ferrum is very adequate so been quite a community other so it’s easier to adapt far. Ferrum is a small community school and diverse in vibe. It’s really easy to to this new stage in life.” the mountains.” contact your teachers when you need help. Everyone is super friendly no matter where you’re from andeveryone is experiencing the same thing as you.”

Courtney Bowles

Photo cred: Destinee Nelson Jose Ricardo Bonifasi: Guatemala, Soccer Team, Member of Boone Honors Program.

Major: Business Minor: Marketing Quote: “ People around Ferrum treat you as if you’re at home. I have got to meet really good people here. I have really good friends that I feel like I’ve known my whole life. Education and athletics go hand in hand for me around Ferrum.”

d r a o B n i t e l l Panther Bu

Fall Break Information Fall Break begins on Wednesday, October 16 after your last class.

You should plan on leaving campus no later than Thursday October 17 by 12:00 p.m. unless you receive permission from the Office of Student Life to stay on campus.

Residence halls will reopen on Sunday, October 20 at noon and classes resume the following day. If you do not plan to stay on campus, you should begin making arrangements for transportation now.

Ferrum College Residence Halls are not closed during Fall Break. While it is encouraged that all students to take advantage of the break to visit with family or friends and take this much deserved break, students are not required to leave campus. If you need to stay on campus during the break, you must ask for and receive permission to remain on campus.

ALSO, PLEASE NOTE THERE IS NO BREAK HOUSING DURING THANKSGIVING BREAK, SO BEGIN MAKING PLANS NOW! RESIDENCE HALLS ARE CLOSED DURING THANKSGIVING BREAK.Students with unique circumstances and cannot travel over Thanksgiving Break can work with Dean Nicole Lenez to find a host family in the area.

Inquiring Minds

10/23 Snapshots: College Education Around the World.

Members of Ferrum College’s International Faculty: Drs. Roman Bohdan, Omar Darwish, Dana GhiocaRobrecht, Sixto Montesinos, Mingxiao Sui, Patty Suppes.

10/30 Who Wants to Be Scared? The Psychology of Fear Dr. Megan St. Peters

11/6 Changing Perspectives: How Does Public History Affect the Meaning of the Civil War? Drs. Nicole Greer Golda and Dr. Tim Daniels

11/13 Lifting the Curtain: From the Professional Stage to Educational Theatre Profs.

Giuseppe Ritorto and Rebecca Crocker

11/20 What’s the Straight Dope on Hemp? Not Your Grandparents’ Reefer Madness Dr. Tim Durham