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a n i l o r a C th r o N r o f t x e N nate Race e S d s li il n T a and w, o N • Hagan , d a n H e e v a h T uld H rs We Sho
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CONTENTS FROM THE EDITOR Dear Readers, Maybe it’s only because I’m a college senior soon to enter the real world, but lately I’ve noticed the theme of transition in many things affecting our lives. It’s the midterm election season, and neck-and-neck races like the Hagan-Tillis senate contest (profiled on page 8 by Wilson Sink) could have a big effect on our political future. Our world is in constant flux. Most of us can’t remember, but politics didn’t use to be this way--so vitriolic, so us versus them. Hopefully our generation will have a chance to restore the more unified political balance. Of course, there are many factors to discourage us: gerrymandering makes voting in some races practically pointless, and the lack of opportunity for young people is disillusioning. But we shouldn’t give in to apathy (see Caroline Woronoff’s piece on page 14 for the reasons you should vote.)
HAGAN & TILLIS SENATE RACE
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GLITTER PUPPETS AND RECESS A COMMENTARY ON NC POLITICS
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THE TEACHERS WE ALL SHOULD HAVE HAD
From the Blog Andrew Powell Too Close To Call Gillter Puppers, and Recess Economics of Out of State
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Why Won’t Young People Vote? Halloween PSA Rise of Islamic State Energy in North Carolina The Teachers We all Should Have Had
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STAFF lindsey kellogg editor-in-chief ina kosova executive editor tony liu, caroline woronoff managing editors
matt keenan executive editor, campusblueprint.com
layla quran, norman archer managing editor, campusblueprint.com
christopher phompraseut creative director jennifer waldkrich public relations and
This year in North Carolina we are fortunate to have an election where a small amount of votes can make a difference. Go out and study your candidates. Go vote, and feel good about it. Get civically involved!
social media director
anisha padma photo editor lindsey kellogg, ina kosova, matt keenan, tony liu, caroline woronoff, layla quran, norman archer, jennifer waldkrich, abby lantz, thomas gooding, wilson sink, erik rys, anita simha, sami lachgar, duncan yetman, kelly hughes, cole wilhelmi staff writers christopher phompraseut, delaney mcguire,
Lindsey Kellogg Editor-in-Chief
ashley fox, conor atkins, lindsey kellogg designers
anisha padma photographers blake burgess treasurer
Cover Photo by Anisha Padma
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G O L B E H T M O FR Campus BluePrint publishes blog posts daily. Here are some of the best from the blog since our last print issue. To read the whole posts, visit us at campusblueprint.com. Additionally, men need gender equality too. There can be no movement with only half the population. Feminists require the support of men if they want to change anything. So, why would they be ‘man-hating’ to begin with? Women need men to participate in feminism, but men need feminism too. Men should be able to feel vulnerable or to stay home with their children without judgment. During her speech, Ms. Watson launched #HeForShe, a campaign that aims to gain male support of feminism.
threaten, demean, and slut-shame.
I’m a feminist, and I’m happy to see anyone stand up for women’s rights. However, one thing about this speech still perplexes me. Many of the headlines covering this speech called Watson’s speech ‘game-changing.’ Is it? Really, all she did was define the word feminism. She explained that it’s simply a human rights issue calling for equal rights. That has been said before. It’s not even a revolutionary idea. It’s in the dictionary. Why, then, is this word so confusing? How In response to Watson’s speech, users of can we translate this definition into not the website 4chan gave Watson a five day only beliefs but also actions? How can it warning, saying if she didn’t step back from become more than a video that’s viral for her views they would post nude photos of a week? The answer, unfortunately, is unher. There is no evidence that these photos clear. even exist, and their threat only strengthens her argument. However, it’s still incred- Managing editor Caroline Woronoff responds ibly shocking that a speech defining femi- to Emma Watson’s speech on feminism at the nism as a moderate, obtainable, human United Nations Headquarters, 9/25/2014. rights issue, provoked a response meant to
OCTOBER 2014
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SCOTLAND
Executive editor Ina Kosova reported live from Edinburg, Scotland on the Scottish independence referendum, 9/18/2014.
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PHOTOS BY INA KOSOVA
VOTES
The atmosphere was electric. I felt I was sitting in the midst of a revolutionary frenzy as Robin McAlpine clutched the podium and called out into the crowd: “The laird of the manor came up and told the peasants that they better all get on their knees and do what they always do […]. And then what happened was, the peasants came straight out onto the fields and organized a rebellion.’ And so the struggle for independence had begun. McAlpine is the founder of the progressive think tank, the Reid Foundation, and came to Edinburgh University on September 12 to speak in favor of an independent Scotland. The type of rhetoric utilized by McAlpine is characteristic of the Yes Scotland campaign, targeting in particular the lower classes in a discussion of rampant income inequality. But the Yes campaign has also been fueled by an extraordinary sense of optimism: for Scotland’s future, for the nation-building capacities of the Scottish people, and for the blank-slate that will allegedly come with independence.
The strides made by the Yes campaign have surprised many. After a landslide victory by the Scottish National Party (SNP) in the 2011 Scottish elections, Alex Salmond, Scotland’s First Minister, signed the Edinburgh Agreement in October 2012 with Prime Minister David Cameron, paving the way for a Scottish referendum on independence. On September 7, 2014, according to a YouGov poll published in the Sunday Times, the ‘Yes’ vote had gained the lead for the first time in the two-year campaign. The government at Westminster appears nervous. On September 16, Prime Minister David Cameron, Labour leader Ed Miliband, and Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg signed a pledge promising ‘extensive new powers’ to the Scottish Parliament, that the UK would ‘share our resources equitably,’ and that the final say on funding for the National Health Service (NHS) will lie with the Scottish government. ...Update 8:42 am: All results are in. Scotland votes No to independence and remain in the United Kingdom. Yes, 44.7 percent, No, 55.3 percent. Record 84.5 percent voter turnout.
OCTOBER 2014
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POWELL, STUDENT GOVERNMENT TO TACKLE CORE EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM SAMI LACHGAR
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he evolution of student government since the University of North Carolina was established in 1789 has been one that exudes progressivity and involvement. The first century of the university’s existence was characterized by strict rules that demanded conformity, such as when the trustees handed down regulations and students listened due to fear of expulsion. However, the dialogue between the administration and students has opened up dramatically in recent years. With the creation of more c lubs and student organizations, student government has had to develop from a “middle man” role into a policymaking body that can make a tangible difference on students’ behalf. Enter Andrew Powell, 2014-15 Student Body President and advocate
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for flipped classrooms, educational affordability, and a greater sense of identity among students. In a society where the importance of a college degree is debated, Powell’s main goal is to illustrate Carolina’s value by altering learning techniques and adapting them to a 21st century framework. “Carolina is a place that has had a tradition of excellence for over 200 years and we’ve been a national leader in so many different ways. Right now, however, we face some of the biggest challenges that we’ve ever faced in American higher education,” Powell stated. “This is a great opportunity for Carolina to step up and lead the way to be the birthplace of reinvented public education.” The challenges that Powell describes mostly involve teaching marketable
skills to students, one fundamental aspect of the college experience. Employers now differentiate job candidates based on one’s ability to analyze complex problems, adapt to diverse situations, and communicate persuasively. During this academic year, Powell will look to address these themes through the introduction of flipped classrooms— a style of learning where students watch lessons online before going over problems and questions in class. The idea behind this switch is to keep students more engaged in their own learning process, which ultimately makes actual class time more effective. Flipped classrooms have already seen a spike in implementation at Carolina, with most of the increase coming in problem-based classes
such as Econ 101 and other mathbased courses. Powell’s goal would be to apply flipped classes across a variety of subjects, including some discussion-based ones Nonetheless, while flipped classrooms may facilitate more problems solved, this style of teaching has skeptics. Public Policy professor and chair Daniel Gitterman is one member of the faculty that has not yet committed to using flipped classrooms, but remains in favor of progressive teaching styles. “I think that the old ‘stand and deliver’ lecture style courses have run their course but there are a variety of different ways to change the traditional
ple’s interpretations,” senior Chelsea Krivanek said. Another main theme of Powell’s Student Body President campaign was his willingness to fight for college affordability both within the school administration and the state legislature. Regarding affordability, the university system will either continue to be subsidized at the state level, lose some funding and raise tuition, or have to increase the tuition out of state students pay by 18 percent, as those students pay more. Powell spent the vast majority of the summer meeting with the majority of state legislators involved with edu-
Much of the administration is fully committed to keeping the program alive, including the chancellor and the board of trustees, which only leaves the question of where the funding will come from. Ultimately, Powell was mainly elected based on his promises regarding affordability and changes in the educational system, which he has effectively addressed during his first few months in office. The real question is whether he will be able to fulfill the promises that got him into office. While the idea of flipped classrooms and affordability sound like positive changes, there is still a lot of ground to cover by the ad-
“Carolina is a place that has had a tradition of excellence for over 200 years and we’ve been a national leader in so many different ways. Right now, however, we face some of the biggest challenges that we’ve ever faced in American higher education,” Powell stated. “This is a great opportunity for Carolina to step up and lead the way to be the birthplace of reinvented public education format to make classes more engaging and to encourage small group discussion,” Gitterman said. “What I like about teaching a large undergraduate course—is teaching—so the video aspect of flipped classrooms takes away the part that I enjoy the most.” Flipped classrooms create the necessity for students to look over material in advance in order to fully grasp what the lesson is about. While this clearly isn’t going to be successful with every student, for many it serves as an added incentive to prepare rather than just going to class knowing that the professor would go over the material in a more efficient manner. “I feel like I learned a lot better when I studied the material once through on my own and then had an opportunity to discuss it and hear other peo-
cation appropriations. During these meetings, he emphasized the importance of limited tuition hikes pushing for the board of governors at UNC to have discretion over tuition increases rather than the state legislature. While these meetings may not have provided many noticeable end results, they gave Powell experience in dealing with state politicians for when the long session of state congress begins in January. When it comes to need-based aid, Carolina has kept many promises through the Carolina Covenant program, which meets 100 percent demonstrated need and enables students to graduate debt-free. This will also be a main focus of the Powell administration, as they seek ways to ensure that it remains funded and maintained.
ministration before anything comes to fruition. “I think student government can be a big vehicle for change and improvement on campus,” Powell added. “And Carolina has the opportunity to be on the cutting edge of something that reinvents what our whole educational system is about.” Ultimately, Powell’s administration will have to be evaluated by its effectiveness because even though promises sound ideal, action is the only thing that will have a true impact on the lives of students.
OCTOBER 2014
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PHOTO FROM WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
TOO CLOSE TO CALL WILSON SINK
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ix years ago, a young state senator took on the first-term incumbent of the United States Senate seat for North Carolina. She won. Now, finishing her own first term, Senator Kay Hagan is facing a similar challenge from Thom Tillis, the Speaker of the House for the North Carolina General Assembly. With the state, the nation and Congress in flux, the Hagan-Tillis race carries substantial ramifications. Yet, even as Election Day nears, no clear leader has emerged, the latest polls producing only results that fall within the margin of error. The race is simply “too close to call.” The Candidates Kay Hagan, the Democratic incumbent, grew up in politics, starting young by helping her uncle “paste bumper stickers on supporters’ cars” for his gubernatorial and senatorial races. Later in life, after experience at Wake Forest Law School and in banking and campaign management, she ran for the North Carolina State Senate. There, she served for ten years, before defeating Elizabeth Dole in 8 • OCTOBER 2014
the race for the junior US Senate seat Education in 2008. She currently sits on four Education, controlled largely by indicommittees, including Armed Servic- vidual states, is usually not a large es and Banking. issue in races for national office. Thomas Tillis, the Republican chal- However, as Dr. Daniel Gitterman, lenger, came from a background the UNC Public Policy Chair, explains, in business. After high school, he “Education…has risen to the top of went “straight into the workforce,” this Senate race, because Tillis led before eventually earning a degree a General Assembly that made sigfrom community college. He would nificant reductions in [the] educaspend much of his tion budget.” In “In many ways, the comparison to the career as a partner at Pricewater- 2014 election serves cost of maintaining houseCoopers, a equivalent servicas a referendum consulting firm. es, the 2013-14 NC on Tillis and his There, he advised budget reduced Republican General the state’s largest education spendbank among other ing by $368 million Assembly” national corporaover two years, tions. In 2006, he ran for State Sen- though attack ads have exaggerated ate, where he eventually served as this figure. However, Tillis has chamParty Whip and Speaker of the House. pioned his 7 percent average pay raise for teachers, and his increase The Issues in raw spending in education. ComAs in any election to national office, paratively, Hagan, during her tenure many issues are hotly debated, but a as budget co-chair in North Carolina, few are particularly divisive. substantially increased education funding, adding money for teacher pay raises, class size reduction and
Pre-K programs. At UNC, these past policies could indicate differing futures for students. Jim Sasser, the former Tennessee Senator and Federal Budget Chairman, elaborates, “ Tillis, being conservative… will [likely] be opposed to the federal government continuing to subsidize some of the student loans.” Hagan, meanwhile, would likely continue such loans, according to Sasser. Financial aid, teacher pay, class size, and more could all change depending on who wins in November. Economy and Budget Hagan and Tillis “have fundamentally different preferences on spending and revenues,” Gitterman says. Their respective time in the State Senate reflects the dichotomy. In Hagan’s 2007-8 budget, the sales tax increased alongside investments in infrastructure and education. The Tillis-led General Assembly passed starkly different legislation since it gained a Republican majority. By radically reducing personal and corporate taxes, the state is projected to lose “at least $512 million this fiscal year.” Unlike in other states enjoying budget surpluses, this shortfall forces difficult decisions on cuts and investments for North Carolina. Hagan, on the other hand, continued her investment-leaning track record at the national level, voting in favor of the Obama stimulus package in 2009. These fundamental differences could have a profound impact on Senate budget decisions. Voting Rights While neither Hagan nor Tillis would likely influence North Carolina election law as a Senator, voting rights remain a central issue in the current campaign. In many ways, the 2014
election serves as a referendum on cy, while with a Republican Senate, “I Tillis and his Republican General As- think you would see more fierce parsembly, especially in regards to new tisanship,” creating “unwholesome” voting regulations. The 2013 law re- economic impacts. North Carolina’s quires voters to show photo ID at votes could alter the course of the all polling places starting in 2016, nation. eliminates same day registration and pre-registration for 16 and 17 The Money year olds, and shortens early voting. Naturally, with such high stakes, Unfortunately, as Gitterman notes, both sides have invested heavily. In these laws probably will “suppress fact, this is the most expensive Sen[voter] turnout and suppress turnout ate race in the nation, with some in groups that are likely to vote Dem- $46 million already spent, and that ocratic.” Specificalnumber could grow ly, the law targets “Financial aid, teacher to a record $100 minorities, espemillion by Election pay, class size, and cially “African-Amermore could all change Day. Much of the icans,” according to money has come depending on the US Department from outside sourcwho wins in of Justice, which is es, notably the ulfiling suit over the tra-conservative November.” legislation. Tillis, Koch Brothers and meanwhile, will be tried in the court their PAC, Americans for Prosperity, of public opinion. which dropped $8 million on NC airwaves as early as February. Recently, The Congress though, pro-Hagan spending has surWhile the Hagan-Tillis race matters passed Tillis, turning the state into a to North Carolina voters intrinsically, fundraising arms race. To this, Senathe campaign has important national tor Sasser expressed major concern. ramifications. The current Congress is “ The more money you have, usually, split along party lines, with Repub- the more voice you have…the more licans controlling the House and influence.” Through “molding” public Democrats controlling the Senate. opinion,” he warned, money ampliHowever, that dynamic could change fies a candidate’s voice. Ultimately, in November. Currently, 53 Democrats then, what matters most in this tight (along with two independents who race is voter voice. North Carolina is caucus with the Democrats) control in a position of importance and rethe Senate majority. With only nine sponsibility, with a unique ability to or so truly competitive elections, affect the national agenda. Money, the future makeup of the Senate de- from either side, cannot and should pends heavily on those states. not silence individual voice. Rather, North Carolina is one of the toss- voters have a responsibility to make ups. Hagan or Tillis could be the mag- an informed decision on the complex ic number 51, and a red Senate differs issues and politics that divide Hagan dramatically from a blue Senate. As and Tillis. Regardless of the result, Senator Sasser observes, “A blue though, North Carolinians must be Senate would cooperate more with heard. the [Obama] Administration,” ena- Disclaimer: the author is a Fellow on bling a continuation of current poli- th Kay Hagan Campaign. OCTOBER 2014
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GLITTER, PUPPETS, AND RECESS MATTHEW KEENAN
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“All I know is that come November, I will be hardpressed to circle any names on my ballot,because it would essentially be picking my poison.” 10 • OCTOBER 2014
orth Carolina’s primary political players make a great radio show: DJ Thommy T, MC KayHay, and Funk Master Pat. Ladies and gentleman, welcome to the circus. As we approach the 2014 midterm election, my voter apathy has never been higher. Incumbent Kay Hagan, the “most moderate Senator” faces Grand Master of North Carolina Politics Thom Tillis in a key Senate race this November. Of course, one cannot forget the mascot of the Republican Party: Governor Puppet, excuse me, Pat, McCrory. I present one single argument in this article, and it is that in the year 2014, North Carolina’s political scene may be the worst it has ever been. I will examine these three players in North Carolina politics, and elaborate on some of their strengths, but mostly their weaknesses. In the last election cycle, Kay Hagan managed to raise about $15 million in direct aid for the state of North Carolina, which seems to be fairly effective given the nature of the Congressional beast. In early 2014, the National Journal ranked Hagan as the “most Moderate Senator” in the Senate; Hagan was ranked 51st most liberal, and 49th most conserv-
ative. On paper, this is great! Hagan will save the day; she must bring balance to the force, and yet, does she? Hagan is practical: she knows that conservatism runs deep in this state, but has her moderate approach really worked? Hagan claims to care about education, and healthcare, and other issues most liberal candidates care about, but she does not believe in spending large amounts of government money for those things. What the citizen is then left with is a Senator who says she cares about a wide range of issues, but rarely delivers on them because she does not wish to anger conservative voters by spending government’s money. North Carolina, admittedly, is not the easiest state to represent because of the close split between Democrat and Republican voters, and Kay Hagan’s moderation only perpetuates this divide because of her indecisiveness. “Businessman Thom Tillis has only been in politics for a few years, but his impact on North Carolina is undeniable,” reads the homepage of Tillis’s website. I was not very familiar with businessman Thom Tillis when I began my research for this piece, but I think this opening state-
ment about sums up Tillis’ political another teacher had to say about career in North Carolina. Business- the raise. “ The highest we can earn man Thom Tillis actually assumed of- is $50,000 after 26 years of service.” fice in 2007, not quite “a few years” Meanwhile, our neighbors to the ago, but that is not the point here. south pay teachers at the very minWhat matters is that businessman imum $40,000 after… zero years of Thom Tillis’ impact on North Carolina service. On top of all that, businessis “undeniable.” As Grand Master of man Thom Tillis and his pals in the the North Carolina General Assem- NCGA thumped their drums to the bly (NGCA), businessman Thom Tillis beat of not being in the bottom ten oversaw arguably the worst period of states for teacher pay in the United legislation in the state’s history. On States. What about that one time his website, businessman Thom Tillis Governor Jim Hunt brought North boasts about how the NCGA creat- Carolina inside the top twenty states ed raises for teachers, bumping North Carolina up to number 32 in the national rankings for teacher pay. There are only a ton of little, insignificant problems that came up with these raises. The raises really only award higher starting pay for new teachers, and of course, that money has to come from somewhere, so why not the longevity pay of veteran teachers? Naturally, those pesky teachers sniffed PHOTO FROM WIKIMEDIA COMMONS out the problems with this plan, but for teacher pay in just three years? businessman Thom Tillis would have “I could go on and on.” Finally, the gotten away with it if it wasn’t for fact that teachers must feel the need those meddling teachers, their 1043 to speak under anonymity to voice Words dumb dog. their opinions about the North Car“ The pay for veteran teachers was olina General Assembly is stealing cut significantly, indicating a desire their well-earned pay, signifies that to replace older, more experienced government is failing them on more teachers with younger, cheaper than one level. ones.” I can hardly imagine how a Aside from the United States Congroup of highly educated lawmakers gress, the Chief Executive of the busithought it was a good idea to steal ness of North Carolina is the man, money from older teachers, and give the myth, the goober, Pat McCrory. Pat it to younger teachers. McCrory is the kind of governor who “We had earned that [money] al- refuses to sign the Coal Ash cleanup ready … was very sneaky,” was what bill, even though the bill was going
to pass anyway. Pat McCrory fears the reach of Duke Energy so much, he refused to put his name on a piece of legislation authorizing the cleanup of coal ash that devastated the Dan River in North Carolina. Eight months after the actual spill, Duke Energy allocated a measly $10 million for the cleanup of coal ash from dumps in South Carolina. This spill is not a $10 million problem, nor is it a South Carolina problem. I do not pretend to be a politician, nor do I claim to have all the solutions for the state of North Carolina. All I know is that come November, I will be hard-pressed to circle any names on my ballot, because it would essentially be picking my poison. I want to vote for Kay Hagan, but I fear that she will succumb to big party politics and fail to deliver on many of her promises. On the other hand, I cannot bring myself to vote for businessman Thom Tillis because he represents the head of the Republican-controlled state of congress that has done absolutely nothing for many people in this state. We also cannot forget that Tillis once voted against NC House Bill 1726, the Child Care Nutrition and Activity Standards Act, regulating the amount of sugary drinks children can have, and allocating time spent outside during the school day. I can safely say that I will never vote for a politician who stands against recess.
OCTOBER 2014
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CLOSING THE GAP An Argument for Out-of-State Admissions
DUNCAN YETMAN
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ollege admissions officers face the unique challenge of differentiating a pool of highly qualified applicants. At Chapel Hill, however, things are necessarily more complex. Like many state schools, UNC-CH places a cap on the percentage of out-of-state students enrolled in a freshman class. The policy, set in place by the UNC Board of Governors, is designed to favor in-state applicants to the University. As of February 2014, the UNC Policy Manual states that: “ To ensure that constituent institutions maintain a level of outof-state undergraduate enrollment consistent with historical University policy and tradition, and one consistent with strong and balanced educational programs, it is recommended that the Board of Governors adopt this statement of policy.”—that policy being to limit out of state students to 18 percent of the undergraduate student body [1]. Such limits have historical significance, yes, but in recent years those standards have changed. Traditionally, public universities like UNC accepted a low number of out-of-state applicants, presumably to favor in-state 12 • OCTOBER 2014
admission. But while other schools to 80, 572, far more than the about have democratized this system, UNC 30,000 applicants UNC receives every has held firm. The 2013-2014 fresh- year [4]. Academic standards have man class was composed by only 18 not increased dramatically and, conpercent of out-of-state students to UC trary to fears, the university still enBerkeley’s 25 percent, UCLA’s 27 per- rolls over 16,000 in-state students. cent, and UVA’s 31 percent [2]. UNC faces a similar problem, though The traditional argument for this re- not as immediate. Over the past six striction is that out-of-state students years public funding for UNC system use money and influence to buy schools has fallen by $235 million, a their way into the massive decrease institution. A care- “If left to continue, the that has devastatful look at another tuition increases will ed the University top-tier university, [6]. In response, force not only many however, reveals UNC-CH has been out-of-state but also forced to take aga different reality. in-state applicants Faced with historic gressive measures state budget cuts, to decrease costs, from a Carolina UCLA increased the education, damaging limiting funding percentage of outfor research and the University’s of-state students pulling funding prestige and bottom from various club from 10 to 28 perline.” cent over the past organizations. Tufive years. The deciition (including sion was met with many critics, nota- fees), seen on graph two, is still low: ble among them Democratic Senator at $8,340 per year, it’s still a bargain Michael Rubio, who introduced a bill compared to Duke’s 2014 tuition (and in 2012 to reverse the reforms [3]. fees) of $47,488 [5]. The real danger, Contrary to public fears, however, the however, is in the potential increases University has largely seen positive in tuition possible over the next four results. Applications rose from 55,708 years. The University’s position as a
Increasing Tuition Costs (all figures are for undergraduate students)
35000 $33,624 Out-of-State
30000 25000 20000
DATA FROM UNC OIRA
Cost of Tuition and Fees ($)
value University -- “the number one value University in the U.S” by US News and Reports – was a major in my (and many others’) admission decisions. The threat of further budget shortages raises the possibility of eliminating this advantage, and with it one of the critical components of a Carolina education. If left to continue, the tuition increases will force not only many out-of-state but also in-state applicants from a Carolina education, damaging the University’s prestige and bottom line. The UNC Board of Governors will, necessarily, have to address this problem somehow – and compared to the alternatives democratizing the admissions process seems like a painless solution. Tuition for an outof-state student for the 2013-2014 academic year is $21,782 more than an in-state student. Enrolling even 10% more out-of-state students over five years will increase their number by over 1,500 students. The money from these additional students could subsequently be used to help reduce further budget cuts, and keep
15000 $8,374 In-State
10000 5000 0
2005
2007
UNC’s reputation as one of the few “need-blind” Universities in the U.S. [7]. There is also a more progressive argument to this situation as well. In her introduction to the Chapel Hill community, Chancellor Folt stressed the importance of projecting UNC’s position as a top-tier, diverse research university. How diverse can a university be, however, if it uses residency as a deciding factor in admis-
Limiting Out-of-State Students (all figures are for undergraduate students)
2009
2011
2013
sion? The best solution for the University, and the state as a whole is in accepting those wishing to come to the university – enrolling a wide range of different opinions and backgrounds that can help lead the university through tumultuous change. Such students are not students “with“a checkbook in hand” as Senator Rubio claims (I was surely not one), but students who strained to meet the rigorous standards of this University. Chapel Hill would do well to give them a chance.
Percent of student body (%)
100 80
73% In-State
60 40 27% Out-of-State
20 0 2005
2007
2009
2011
2013
DATA FROM UNC OIRA
OCTOBER 2014
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WHY WON’T YOUNG PEOPLE VOTE? CAROLINE WORONOFF
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oting. It’s a fundamental right at the core of what America stands for: democracy and freedom. For over 200 years, citizens of the United States have fought for the right to vote. Over the course of several movements, people of all races, genders, and economic classes have gained the right to vote. In fact, six of the 27 amendments to the U.S. Constitution have to do with granting access to the right to vote. Despite its long history and high value in this country, people are choosing not to vote, even when they are eligible. Voter restrictions have the potential to lead to seriously diminished turnout, but restrictions will not have an effect until 2016. Voter apathy is what will make or break the coming 2014 election. People are not showing up to vote. Specifically, young people. According to the North Carolina State Board of Elections, 68 percent 14 • OCTOBER 2014
to 80 percent of registered N.C. voters cast a ballot in 2008 and 2012, both presidential election years. But in the midterm election in 2010, only 44 percent of registered voters turned out.
Look at the numbers even more closely. Data from the office of the North Carolina Secretary of State indicates that in 2008 in North Carolina, 18 to 30 years olds made up 10.4 percent of the vote. In 2010, the same age group only made up 3.9 percent of the vote. On the other hand, senior voters (66+) actually saw a spike in the 2010 midterm election, from 18 percent of the vote in 2008 to 26 percent in 2010.
The divide between young and old voters in North Carolina is about twice as severe as it is on the national scale. Young voters lean heavily towards the Democratic ticket while older voters swing towards Republicans. That means that low youth turnout not only hurts North Carolina Democrats, but it hits them twice as hard. C a r a Schumann, a UNC student and a fellow on the Kay Hagan campaign, spends a good portion of her Tuesdays and Thursdays in the Pit registering people to vote. Speaking as a political activist, her expressed views are not associated with the Hagan campaign. “At first it wasn’t terribly difficult, a good number of people were pretty receptive to registering. A few people would actually come up to me, without me having to ask, wanting to register,” she said. “The longer the month went on however, the harder it’s gotten to get people to register. A lot of people don’t re-
alize they have to update their of the N.C. House, Thom Tillis. on its own, so you have to vote registration when they move, or North Carolina’s senate seat is to get your ideas to both the exthey don’t want to vote.” one of the most contested in the ecutive and legislative offices. That said she would estimate nation, and it is a huge deal. North Carolina has a hot race that the collective voter regisCurrently, the Republicans con- on its hands. There is more tration effort trol the House money being spent on the race in the Pit has “I don’t think they feel of Representa- for North Carolina’s Senate seat registered a empowered to [vote]. I tives, the sitting than on any other campaign in few thousand President is a the nation. So far, the campaigns don’t think a lot of voters. But, as people feel they have Democrat, and and outside interest groups have multiple voter the Democrats combined to spend a total of $46 registration vol- time to be informed to are the ruling million. That goes to show not vote.” unteers have majority in the only how valuable the seat is, attested, they Senate. How- but also how valuable the majorwish they could get more people ever, Republicans only need to ity is--and in this race, the majorregistered. pick up six seats to gain a major- ity may be gained by only a few Voter registration volunteers ity in the Senate, and North Caro- thousand people. have plenty of people tell them lina is one of the seats they are “We have one of the most that they will vote absentee in going after. important races in the country their home state, but few people Congress is at an all time low right now,” said Schumann. “It follow through. Some people are for productivity, hardly getting has the most outside money beblunt and admit that they will anything passed due to gridlock. ing poured in. And the odds are not vote. Obama has in many respects that out of state students are not “That’s always a bit frustrat- given up on his current congress- going to absentee ballots or going,” Schumann said. “I don’t men, claiming that he’ll “go it ing home. So they should vote think they feel empowered to alone” on topics from immigra- regardless of place. Also, our [vote]. I don’t think a lot of peo- tion reform to the minimum state legislature directly affects ple feel they have time to be in- wage. But, if Republicans have their University, the resources we formed enough to vote. We need a majority in get, what our to empower our youth vote. both the House “It may be some apa- budget is. They Make it accessible. Making regis- and the Senate, should have a thy but i doubt that, tering accessible. Be clear when then Obama stay in that.” I’ve seen the passion and where to vote, and provide will have a real So what are that UNC students easily accessible and synthe- problem on his you going to do sized information.” hands. It is like- have for all things to do about it? To be “It may be some apathy but I ly that even less with what is just in this eligible to vote doubt that, I’ve seen the passion will get done as you must (1) be world.” that UNC students have for all the executive a U.S. citizen, things to do with what is just in and legislative (2) must have this world,” Schumann said. branches debate nonstop over resided in the country at their Every eligible person in North every issue that comes up. registered address for at least 30 Carolina should cast a ballot this Arguably, there was no point days, (3) be 18 years of age by the election cycle. In the 2014 mid- in voting for president, yay or election, (4) not be serving a senterm election, the United States nay, if you do not follow through tence for a felony, and (5) must Senate seat will be at the top and vote for positions in the leg- rescind any registration in any of the ticket. Democrat and in- islative branch in midterm cycles. other state. cumbent Kay Hagan is running Checks and balances prevent any On Election Day, November against Republican Speaker branch from getting much done 4th, the polls are open from 6:30 OCTOBER 2014
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DATA FROM NORTH CAROLINA STATE BOARD OF ELECTIONS
Average voter turnout in 2008 and 2012 versus voter turnout in 2010 2008/2012
2010
74%
44%
registration in any other state. On Election Day, November 4th, the polls are open from 6:30 am to 7:30 pm. In order to vote on November 4th, you must be registered to vote by October 10th. Registering takes 5 minutes. However, if the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruling stands, you can register the day you vote if you vote early, from October 23rd-Nov 1st. It is highly recommended that you register by October 10th because the court ruling has been appealed and could change. You can print the voter registration form online and mail it to your county board of elections, or UNC students can find the Young Democrats student representatives in the Pit and register in person there. You can register to vote for any political party in the Pit, not just the Democratic party. Chris Sigmon, a UNC senior and Political Director of the Young Democrats, said, “I think 16 • OCTOBER 2014
we’ve gotten a pretty high number of UNC students registered through our efforts, but we can never have enough.” Voter registration forms can also be found on the first floor of Davis Library. Voter ID is tricky. Officially, you will not need to show ID in the 2014 election. That law takes effect in 2016. However, if it is your first time voting, you will need to bring some form of identification this November. That could be (1) a current and valid photo ID [check NC Board of Elections website], (2) a utility bill, (3) a bank statement, (4) a government check, (5) a paycheck, or (6) another government document. To vote absentee, a ballot request must be received by 5:00 pm on the last Tuesday before an election. So for this November, your ballot must be received by October 28th [check your county’s Board of Elections website]. If you are already registered to vote, you can check your registra-
tion status on North Carolina’s State Board of Elections website using just your full name and date of birth. If you don’t want to wait in line on November 4th or you will not be in town on November 4th, you can vote early. UNC students that are registered to vote early may vote at North Carolina Hillel located at 210 W. Cameron Avenue. Early voting occurs over nine days, from October 23rd to November 1st, excluding Sundays. Hours vary every day. No matter who you plan to vote for, make sure you cast your ballot this midterm cycle. Democracy works best when everyone participates because it forces elected officials to listen to all points of view. Do not stand on the sidelines and then complain about the laws being enacted. Elections do matter.
A FRIENDLY REMINDER: Don’t go as cultural appropriation for Halloween LINDSEY KELLOGG
I
t is now officially fall: the air is crisp, the days are getting shorter and there’s a hint of color in the trees. And it’s not just fall, it’s October: that means one holiday is on every college student’s mind: Halloween. Though many have tried to bring awareness to this problem over the past few years, any quick internet search will reveal that some young people around the nation still have a problem finding a culturally sensitive and inoffensive Halloween costume. In 2011, students from Ohio University launched the “We’re a culture, not a costume” campaign. Posters from the campaign feature, say, a young Asian American women holding a picture of a white woman in a caricaturized Geisha costume. Below her, it reads “This is not who I am and this is not okay.” Their goals were to raise discussion and awareness about how dressing up in someone else’s ethnicity is entirely not an acceptable costume choice. I sincerely hope this campaign makes a resurgence online in the weeks before Halloween, because I have seen no
discussion like it emerge since the year it was released. Since coming to college, I’ve often heard Latino friends bemoaning people who throw on a sombrero and poncho and claim to be going as a “Mexican” for Halloween. My question to you is: how can you condense a culture of millions of diverse people into a poncho and a hat? Why choose this trite characterization of a whole country instead of a creative and interesting costume? “This costumed appropriation of culture, race and identity causes a kind of psychological violence when you see someone wearing you as a costume,” writes my former classmate Andrew Núñez in the Tufts Daily. “Halloween is not the one time of year that you get to play dress-up in someone else’s life.” Despite some attempts to create awareness among young people in the country, you can still find plenty of egregious examples of cultural appropriation and racist characterizations. In September of this year, members of a Texas Tech sorority hosted a “Border Patrol” party where girls
wearing sunglasses and wielding gun hands mock-arrested their fellow sisters dressed up in sombreros, ponchos and mustaches. This past January, a fraternity at Arizona State hosted a Martin Luther King Jr. Day complete with white boys wearing basketball jerseys, posing with watermelon slices and flashing gang signs. Though these groups were widely criticized, many tried to defend their choices to dress as they wish. It shows that people still see this kind of costumes as harmless and fun. If certain people like these feel entitled to racist caricatures throughout year, who knows what they’ll feel is acceptable on Halloween day, a time when you supposedly can dress up as you wish. So, here are some things I hope you have learned to not dress up as (on any occasion): a “Mexican,” a gangster, a geisha, a “Native American,” any particular ethnicity at all, because that’s not a costume. Try some healthy alternatives: Harry Potter, Madonna, a pumpkin, a ghoul, a funky robot, a dinosaur from outer space. OCTOBER 2014
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RISE OF AN ISLAMIC STATE A History of IS and American Perception of Intervention COLE WILHELMI
I
t has been 13 years since the 9/11 terrorist attacks, and after costly wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, covert missions into Pakistan, and billions of dollars spent on airstrikes and counterterrorism efforts, the United States’ problems in the Middle East are far from resolution. The Islamic State, or IS, has come seemingly out of nowhere and into direct focus as a major threat to Middle Eastern security. Now, the United States must deal with an even murkier scene in the Middle East, balancing the need to stabilize the region with a general unwillingness to commit itself to another protracted ground war. First, some history on IS. The organization has had a long and complex past, and understanding its roots is key in creating a reasonable foreign policy strategy to address them. Before 2014, the media had barely covered them, the public never knew they existed, and American politicians considered them just one of the many radical Islamic groups that sprang up in the region post-9/11. They were simply lumped under the general term, “terrorists”. In the wake of the 2003 invasion of Iraq, several paramilitary groups in Iraq and neighboring countries gained strength as they reacted violently against U.S. presence in the region. The first IS-precursor group, known as Jama’at al-Tawhid wal-Jihad, achieved special notoriety as one of the most brutal and zealous of these militias. Its founder, a Jordanian named Abu Musab al-Zarqa18 • OCTOBER 2014
wi, dreamed of establishing a Sunni-dominated Iraq, and focused his attacks on both U.S.-coalition forces and Shiite Iraqi civilians. Despite initial fame for their effective suicide tactics and ties to the al-Qaeda network, they suffered a series of setbacks that seriously diminished their influence: Zarqawi’s targeting of Shiite Muslim civilians lost them much popular support, U.S. troop surges drove them from strongholds, and Zarqawi himself was killed in an airstrike in 2006. In 2010, leadership was handed over to Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. Under his control, the ISI recruited new military leaders, many of whom were experienced generals that had served under Saddam Hussein’s national army. In 2011, the Syrian Civil War provided al-Baghdadi with an opportunity to establish a real military presence. Rebel forces, fighting against al-Assad’s Shiite regime, were largely disorganized and poorly-trained. The ISI used the ensuing chaos to establish themselves as the preeminent rebel force in Syria, renaming itself ISIS- the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. By the end of 2013, ISIS had captured large swaths of Northern Syria, establishing a base from which to stage further incursions into both Syria and Iraq. In June of this year, they became known simply as the Islamic State (IS), declaring the establishment of a new Sunni caliphate, led by al-Baghdadi. The last two months are all too familiar to mostthe beheadings of American and Brit-
ish civilians, systematic killings of Shiite Muslims and Christians in Iraq, and the emergence of IS as a major threat to stability in the region. Now that IS has achieved public attention and international condemnation, it falls on the Obama administration to make the next move. Should the U.S. embark on another full-scale military intervention in Syria and Iraq, or take a hands-off approach? One of the most important considerations for the administration is responding to the American public’s perception of the region and its willingness to intervene, which has remained anything but consistent over the last decade. In 2003, the Pew Research Center (a non-partisan polling and think-tank organization) reported that 72 percent of Americans favored the decision for war in Iraq. Popular support for intervention was fueled primarily by fear of terrorism and the alleged presence of weapons of mass destruction. Opinion of the war decreased steadily as casualties increased and no WMDs were found; by 2008, the number supporting the war had fallen to just 38 percent. The military and economic costs weighed down heavily on the public eye, and many didn’t see an end in sight for security operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. The memory of those extended conflicts was not lost on Americans when the question of intervention in Syria arose in 2013. 72 percent of Americans opposed military intervention in the country, fearing a lack
PHOTO FROM WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
of clear objectives and the possibility of another 10 year occupation. Back when Syria was being covered extensively by Western media, Obama decided to play the poll numbers and provided limited aid to Syrian rebel groups. But as the conflict wore on, Western interest in supporting the rebels diminished as well, and the IS was allowed to establish a base in Syria in the subsequent power vacuum. Today, Americans are more split than ever on renewed presence in the Middle East. The Pew Research Center reports that in November of 2013, 51 percent of people believed that the United States was doing too much to solve the world’s problems, and only 17 percent said it was doExtensive media coverage of IS ing too little. In August of 2014, 39 over the last few months has unpercent said it was doing too much, doubtedly contributed to fear of IS and 31 percent said it was doing too as a threat to U.S. national security. little. In 2014, 67 percent of people So part of the fear of IS stems from believed that IS is a “major threat” to the fact that Americans associate the United States, making the IS the them as terrorists, when there is a second biggest threat in the public fairly clear distinction. Again, Obama eye behind al-Qaeda. is trying to strike a balance by auAmericans should be aware of the thorizing air strikes in Iraq and Syria, key difference between IS and true without committing to stronger militerrorist groups tary intervention. like al- Qaeda. The In 2014, 67 percent of Air strikes are a IS is a standing people believed that IS fine means of army, with organeffective “handsized leadership, is a “major threat” to the United States, making off ” warfare, but territory under its they run the risk control, and its the IS the second of provoking the goal has always biggest threat in the IS into attacking been to establish public eye the United States a Sunni caliphate directly. In fact, behind al-Qaeda. in the Middle East the IS’s only agwith sharia law. It gressive action towards the West- the has demonstrated little interest in dibeheading of U.S. and British civilrectly attacking civilians in the West. ians- was provoked by U.S. bombing Most terrorist groups, on the other of IS targets. hand, operate on a less concentrated As of now, the IS seems to be inscale, don’t control armies, and focus terested primarily in establishing its primarily on attacking civilian targets dominance in the Middle East, not (mostly against the West).
attacking the West, but hasty foreign policy may make them more hostile. Obama is in a difficult situation, but the threat of IS is recognized by many actors in the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, Iran, Syrian rebel groups supported by the United States, Lebanon, Turkey, and many other countries. The United States needs to play a firm guiding role in supporting the Middle East’s regional action against IS- specifically, making stronger relations with the actors involved, and building the Middle East’s capacity to isolate and handle threats on their own. In coming months, Obama’s handling of the new crisis in Iraq and Syria will determine whether the Middle East finally achieves some degree of stability, or breeds another round of chaos and uncertainty.
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THE FUTURE OF CLEAN ENERGY IN NORTH CAROLINA KELLY HUGHES
“A
ll-of-the-above energy” has become a repeated catch-phrase of Governor Pat McCrory, who espouses the need for both renewable and traditional sources of energy. McCrory has played a controversial role in debates over energy, criticized by some for his support of fracking and lax approach to cleaning the Dan River coal ash spill, yet still praised for his support of renewable energy. He portrays his end goal, the diversification and expansion of North Carolina’s energy sector, as key for economic growth and job creation. This diversification is already happening as renewable energy has gained a stronghold in North Carolina. Debates over energy have likewise expanded with renewable energy capturing attention in Chapel Hill and around North Carolina, sparking discussion over practicality and environmental impacts. Solar energy in particular has gained momentum, becoming an increasingly important component of North Carolina’s energy development. Meanwhile, wind energy remains promising but faces an uphill battle for acceptance and expansion. The outcome of these debates will play an important role in the sustainability of North Carolina’s energy future. North Carolina has transformed from a fossil-fuel dependent state to a renewable energy contender in the last couple years due to investment in renewable energy and a change in policy. Recently, North Carolina 20 • OCTOBER 2014
emerged as one of the top ten so- that the very energy policies that lar-producing states. Think Progress have promoted solar production reported that last year alone North could become a limit to its future Carolina nearly doubled its capacity growth. On the practically front, opin solar energy with an increase of ponents argue that solar energy is nearly 335 megawatts. This success too limited and intermittent to be a story has been foslong-term solution Think Progress tered by policy; sofor sustainable lar energy has be- reported that last year energy in North come increasingly alone North Carolina Carolina. Howevaffordable with er, the main point nearly doubled its tax credits that of contention is capacity in solar cover 35% of the financial feasibilenergy with an cost of new enity. As mentioned ergy projects and increase of nearly 335 above, solar enreimbursements ergy is supported megawatts. for individuals proby tax credits and ducing solar energy. Another impor- subsidies, which raises questions of tant development is the enactment its ability to compete against sources of North Carolina’s 2007 Renewable such as natural gas. These policies, Energy and Energy Efficiency Portfo- although currently secure, will soon lio Standard, which requires utilities begin to expire as many argue they to get 12.5% of energy needs from are no longer needed and have outrenewable energy. These measures lived their purpose of jumpstarting have motivated companies to shift the solar energy industry. Duke Enertheir attention to alternative energy gy has recently requested a reduction sources. This month, Duke Energy an- in the amount individuals are paid nounced plans to invest $500 million for excess solar production. Similarly, in constructing three solar farms in although voicing support of the solar North Carolina. This plan is directly industry, McCrory quipped that solar linked to the Chapel Hill community energy is going to have to learn to through its partnership with a local “stand on its own.” It’s ability to do solar company, Strata Solar. Accord- that remains to be seen. ing to its website, Strata Solar is the On the coast, the focus has been sixth largest overall solar contractor on a different renewable energy: in the US with over 70 solar farms. wind power. Wind energy will be an Behind solar energy’s apparent important factor for North Carolina’s success is a continuing debate over renewable energy expansion as 1400 solar energy’s practicality and future square miles off the coast of North policy support. The result could be Carolina have been pinpointed for
-
PHOTO FROM WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
potential wind farms. However, wind energy has been subject to a more intense scrutiny than solar energy, causing its realization to be limited despite its potential. As close as 11 miles from the coast, turbines will be visible at least 35% of the time according to the News Observer, leading to a debate over the “aesthetic problem.” Coastal towns such as Kitty Hawk have reacted with opposition and attempts to restrict wind farms to at least 20 miles off the coast, fearing negative impacts to the tourist industry that makes up the base of their local economy. Like in solar energy, objections to wind energy have financial roots as wind energy is also supported by heavily debated subsidies and tax credits. However, objections to wind power have expanded beyond pure financial considerations, ranging from potential environmental damage in the oceans to navigational problems. Although McCrory declares wind energy “vital to a prosperous energy future” in North Carolina, these debates have delayed the development of wind energy and will continue to do so. Already under progress for three years, bidding for federal leases is at least two years away, although five developers have expressed interest.
UNC is investigating which campus buildings can accommodate solar panels. It is clear that before experiencing the same acceptance as solar energy, wind energy must first overcome a number of obstacles and provide satisfactory answers to these objections. The debates over renewable energy occurring across North Carolina have materialized in Chapel Hill and the UNC community and have been translated into noticeable action. Grassroots organizations such as Solarize Chapel Hill seek to make solar energy affordable for local commu-
nities and businesses, providing free assessments for homes and group discounts. Similarly, they seek to raise awareness about solar energy’s potential, holding information sessions around the local community. Similar programs have occurred in neighboring towns such as Carrboro and Durham. Likewise, efforts are occurring on campus to hasten the shift from unsustainable sources of energy to renewable. Activist organizations such as the Sierra Student Coalition bring attention to
Clean Energy: Obstacles to Expansion SOLAR ENERGY:
WIND ENERGY:
•Debates over practicality
•Aesthetic concerns
•Financial feasibility
•Financial feasibility
•Potential policy reversal
• Ocean damage concerns •Potential policy reversal
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PHOTO PROVIDED BY VIVIAN CONNELL
VIVIVAN CONNELL: THE TEACHER WE ALL SHOULD HAVE HAD JENNIFER WALDKIRCH
I
n many ways, my path to advanced critical thinking began in my tenth grade English class. My teacher, Vivian Connell was always on a passionate mission to make us all aware of the world in which we lived. She forced us to address the privileges in our society that blocked our view of human suffering. Through our reading of world literature, we learned to recognize the ways in which we otherize different groups, races, and cultures. One of the many books we read, a nonfiction work titled The Bookseller of Kabul, detailed the lives of an Afghani bookseller and his family. Growing up in a predominantly Christian nation at war with an Islamic state, it was imperative that my classmates and I understood the humanity of our supposed 22 • OCTOBER 2014
enemy. Expanding upon this theme, we studied the otherization that took place during the Holocaust and other historical events. Many of the lessons I learned in her class have driven my college career as a history major and pushed me to engage with social activism. A good English class allows you to get beyond public school standards and tests, and asks you to form some ideas about the world in which you live. A good English teacher can make these ideas stick. About four years ago, Vivian Connell quit her job teaching high school English to go to law school at UNC, hoping to make a change in the public policy surrounding education. In 2013, she graduated with honors and joined the North Carolina Bar.
Since then she has become an advocate for public education in North Carolina, speaking out against recent policies by the state that wrongly punish teachers for poor academic performances. In November of last year, at a rally for teachers in Raleigh, Connell told a crowd of protesters “we should be applauding North Carolina educators… teachers in our schools battle an achievement gap created not by poor instruction but by social and economic challenges.” She went on to list recent “ill conceived policies” created by the current GOP led General Assembly, namely expanding and deregulating charter schools, diverting tax revenue to grant vouchers to a select few students to attend private schools, denying teachers extra pay for
OPPOSITE: At a #SpeakOutNC rally in front of the Old Capital Building in Raleigh.
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PHOTO PROVIDED BY VIVIAN CONNELL
advanced degrees, and eliminating due campaign for Senate reelection. In a camteacher like she was by Mrs. Connell: process for teachers paign ad released “She wanted us to learn for the sake of (also known as caA good English class al- in September of knowledge, not to meet a test grade, and reer status.) Policies this year, Connell because she so obviously cared about our lows you to get beyond like the last two unappeared as the education and our learning, it also became dermine the work public school standards and central voice, saying very obvious that she would be willing to that teachers like tests, and asks you to form “Thom Tillis is terfight for us.” Connell do in the some ideas about the world rible for education When Rosenbaum was falsely charged classroom by driving in North Carolina.” with plagiarism, Mrs. Connell helped to in which you live. them to states that Citing his support fight against the accusation. As an educaoffer more competiof budget cuts to tor, she is willing to fight for her students tive pay and fairer treatment. As a memschools and oversized classrooms, Conbecause she believes so firmly in our right ber of Public Schools First, NC’s Advisory nell argues that the current state Speaker to succeed. Because of Mrs. Connell, I beBoard, she has become a passionate voice of the House has a bad track record in edlieve that the path to a better educational for education reform. ucation policy. She continues to fight for system lies in policy that encourages good In the past year, Vivian Connell’s mark on education reform through both political teachers to remain in our state. As a teacheducation reform has gained even larger action and consciousness raising. er, she has helped many students to sucattention through her recent diagnosis In talking to fellow high school alumni, I ceed. Her hope as an education advocate with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease.) In a blog realized just how large a hand Mrs. Conis to help other teachers make a similar post from March she writes that her life nell has had in the lives of her students. impact in the lives of their students. expectancy is roughly three to five years. Lindsey Rosenbaum, a senior at NC State, Realizing that she must now be more intold me she had never been inspired by a tentional in allocating time and energy, Connell has thought even harder about her lasting contributions to education. Since graduating from law school, she has also returned to teaching ESL at both Phoenix Academy and Chapel Hill High School--dedicating herself once more to creating lasting and meaningful lessons for her students. In a successful online campaign, she was able to raise enough money to take her students at Phoenix Academy to the Holocaust Museum in Washington, DC. Her story has become inspiring to many, even gaining national attention. Former Assistant U.S. Secretary of Education and current educational policy activist Diane Ravitch wrote about Connell in her blog. She called Connell a hero, writing, “I will think of Vivian every time I hear the hireling of a plutocrat tell me that those of us who fight for free, high-quality public education are ‘on the wrong side of history.’ I want to be on the side of history with Vivian.” Most recently, Vivian Connell has become a vocal supporter of Kay Hagan’s ABOVE: Ms. Connell graduating from UNC’s School of Law in 2013.
Published with support from: Generation Progress, a division of the Center for American Progress. Generation Progress works to help young people — advocates, activists, journalists, artists — make their voices heard on issues that matter. Online at genprog.org. Also paid for in part by student fees.
Campus BluePrint is a non-partisan student publication that aims to provide a forum for open
dialogue on progressive ideals at UNC-Chapel Hill and in the greater community. 24 • OCTOBER 2014