94 NO. 10
SOU’WESTER MARCH 2025
WHAT’S GOING ON AROUND CAMPUS?
PRESIDENT JOHNSTON’S PUBLIC STATEMENT AT GSW’S STUDENT GOVERNMENT MEETING
Tyeshia Walker Staff Writer
GSW President Dr. Michelle Johnston attended the Student Government Association meeting on Tuesday March 11 to discuss Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) on GSW’s campus.
President Trump’s executive order regarding the Department of Education and DEI programs and laws have been a hot topic on campus.
On February 14, 2025, the Department of Education Office for Civil Rights posted a “Dear Colleague” letter that publicly criticized the use of DEI in Pre-K through higher education. The statement re-interprets Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 that prohibits the use of race in various campus activities, including admissions compensation, and housing.
IN THIS ISSUE
PRESIDENTIAL INVESTITURE CEREMONY PAGE 2
16TH ANNUAL SCHOLARHIP DONOR LUNCHEON PAGE 4
LET’S TACO ‘BOUT SEX PAGE 5
GSWANS host an event to teach safe sex practices to students.
SPORTS RESULTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS PAGE 7
The letter also called to abolish any and every DEI related program by February 28, 2025. These policies have raised concerns for many school districts and communities who have rushed to compensate to keep their federal funding.
Dr. Johnston addressed this letter stating that the university is currently not making any changes but is actively seeking more specific guidance from the Department of Education. She states that her main goal is to keep GSW a welcoming and inclusive community that allows all students to feel valued and supported.
During the meeting a DEI resolution signed by SGA members and the SGA president was voted on and approved. The resolution emphasized the student body’s disdain for the new policies and reiterates Georgia Southwestern’s commitment to keeping the campus an inclusive home for all.
Other items Dr. Johnston announced at the meeting included GSW’s investiture week and Georgia Southwestern’s Big Build Event.
GSW’s investiture week celebrates not only Dr. Johnston’s official inauguration, but also the university’s history and its future. The week involves student and community activities throughout March 24-28, and ends with Dr. Johnston’s official recognition as GSWs 12th president and first female president.
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Photo from GSW.
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The Big Build Event encourages students, faculty, and staff to volunteer to build a house in the Americus community to help a family in need. Volunteer dates and sign-ups will be live throughout the month of April. The Big Build Event is partnering with South Georgia Technical College and Phoebe Sumter Medical Center.
Dr. Michelle Johnston ended her public comment in encouraging every student to participate in strategic planning sessions by providing input to shape the university’s future and expresses her confidence in the future of the Georgia Southwestern State University community.
INVESTITURE WEEK ENDS WITH PRESIDENTIAL CEREMONY FOR DR. JOHNSTON
Colby Hernandez Media Editor
On March 28, GSW held the Investiture Ceremony of Dr. Michelle Johnston as president of GSW. The ceremony began with a faculty and staff processional, followed by the Presentation of Colors by the Sumter County High School JROTC and an invocation by Rev. Daryl Brown. Members of the Americus and GSW communities gave their remarks. Dr. Johnston’s childhood best friend, Dr. Karen Cole, and her daughters, Rae and Abi, shared their favorite memories of her before Dr. Sonny Perdue, Chancellor of the University System of Georgia, presented Dr. Johnston with a medallion. She then delivered her inaugural address, thanking attendees and encouraging students to pursue higher education.
Since arriving in June 2024, Dr. Johnston has gone beyond her traditional duties to form personal relationships with staff, students, and faculty alike. Very few people at GSW can say that she has never spoken with them. She famously carries around a diploma cover to remind us of what we’re working towards and requested that professors keep one in their offices for the same purpose. Dr. Johnston shows just what it means to be a Hurricane.
GSW NPHC WEEK RECAP
Tyeshia Walker Staff Writer
On February 23 the National Pan-Hellenic Counsel kicked off Georgia Southwestern’s annual NPHC week. During the celebration week, every NPHC organization on campus hosted a unique event for every day of the week from February 23 through 28.
Starting off the week on Sunday was the Mu Delta chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. with their “Ice Cold Game Night”. Photo from GSW NPHC.
Tuesday the Theta
Thursday the Nu
On Wednesday the Lambda Psi chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc and the Mu Rho chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc held a collaborative “Indy Love” bake sale. Photo from GSW NPHC.
To end the week the Delta Delta Delta chapter of Omega Psi Phi
held a campus clean up service event that Friday.
On Monday the Mu Mu chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. hosted a “Finer Jeopardy” game show.
Photo from GSW NPHC.
On
Sigma chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Hosted a Delta movie watch party. Photo from GSW NPHC.
On
Zeta chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Held a relaxing “Kookies and Kanvases” event. Photo from GSW NPHC.
Fraternity, Inc.
Photo from GSW NPHC.
GSW HONORS SCHOLARSHIP DONORS AND RECIPIENTS AT 16TH ANNUAL DONOR AND SCHOLAR LUNCHEON
Colby Hernandez Media Editor
On Thursday, March 6, donors and scholars alike gathered for a luncheon in the Thomas O. Marshall Jr. Pavilion Private Dining Room. The event allowed students who received scholarships from donors to talk to and thank them. Stephen Snyder, executive director of the GSW Foundation, opened the luncheon thanking students and donors for coming. Snyder blessed the food and prayed for good fellowship. Following the meal, attendees listened to two speeches. Lilly Peppers, who received four scholarships from donors, spoke about her family’s legacy at GSW and how proud she is to be the next in her family to attend the school. For the first time, a donor spoke at the event. Edwin Sammons, Class of ‘77, gave a speech explaining his decision to start the Chi Phi Endowment Scholarship, noting it was the actions of a Chi Phi member that inspired him to donate. Following Sammons’s speech, a video showcasing a handful of students thanking their donors and explaining their stories was played. Finally, President Dr. Michelle Johnston gave closing remarks, thanking donors and reminding students to thank those responsible for their academic success.
GAMES AND DONUTS COMING TO DOWNTOWN
Zac Monnier Staff Writer
Hold onto your d20s, nerds. After more than seven months of renovations, a new hobby store has thrown open its (definitely not trapped) doors. Ethereal Gaming’s launch date was Friday, March 21, with so many people coming in to play Magic: The Gathering that the owners decided to keep the party going hours later than they initially planned. The shop sells Warhammer miniatures, paint supplies, Dungeons & Dragons fixtures, board games, trading cards, and all the little accoutrements that gamers enjoy. You can find them at 130 Cotton Avenue, right next to the soon-to-open Baker’s Dozen donut shop. Baker’s Dozen will offer a cozy retro vibe, complete with doo-wop music and a menu featuring freshly made donuts and options like a donut hamburger, yeah you read that right. Ethereal-Gaming will be open Wednesday-Sunday, staying open late on Fridays and Saturdays. Follow them on Instagram: @ethereal.gaming
Opening remarks. Photo from GSW.
Lilly Peppers. Photo from GSW.
Edwin Simmons. Photo from GSW.
Dr. Johnston. Photo from GSW.
Photo from GSW.
GSWANS HOST TACO ‘BOUT SEX TO RAISE SAFE SEX AWARENESS
Bristol Cox Staff Writer
On Thursday, March 6, the Georgia Southwestern Association of Nursing Students (GSWANS) hosted Taco ‘bout Sex, an engaging and educational event aimed at fostering an open conversation about safe sex practices. The event featured guest speakers from the Sumter County Health Department, including Nurse Manager Ms. Emily, who led discussions on sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and the resources available to students.
Attendees received goody bags filled with educational pamphlets, Department of Public Health (DPH) merchandise, condoms, and, of course, tacos to enjoy while Ms. Emily led the discussion. She highlighted the alarming rise of STDs in Georgia, emphasizing that some infections can remain dormant for years and lead to serious health complications. In 2023 alone, Georgia reported 71,294 cases of chlamydia, underscoring the need for routine testing and destigmatizing sexual health.
The Sumter County Health Department offers a range of sexual health services, including free condoms, pelvic exams, emergency contraception (the morning-after pill), and all forms of birth control. These services operate on a sliding-scale payment system, meaning costs are based on an individual’s income making some visits as affordable as just a few dollars.
All of the attending nurses reassured students that their clinic is a judgment-free space. “We’ve seen it all and then some,” they stressed, encouraging students to seek care without embarrassment whether it’s for STD testing, treatment, HIV prevention medicine, birth control, or just picking up condoms. The health department even offers same-day treatment in most cases, ensuring quick and confidential care.
“If y’all need anything, we have pamphlets not just about sex, but also on men’s health, women’s health, understanding your lab numbers, different STDs, and even anxiety and stress,” Ms. Emily shared. “We know college is stressful, so if you ever need to come see us for anything, we’re here for you.”
By hosting events like Taco ‘bout Sex, GSWANS continues to provide students with important health education and access to essential resources all while creating a comfortable space for open discussions.
2025’S KAPPA DELTA WEEK
Amari Rudison Editor
Kappa Delta held their annual Shamrock Week March 3 through 8. The week focused on raising money for their philanthropies, Prevent Child Abuse America and Court Appointed Special Advocates. Events included Taco Tuesday, sports, a dancing competition, and ended with the KD 5K Color Run. Below are pictures from the events.
PSYCHOLOGY AND SOCIOLOGY CLUB’S GAME NIGHT
Zac Monnier Staff Writer
On February 26, Alyssa Renaud, President of the Psychology and Sociology Club and Elementary Education Major, welcomed the small group of students for a game night. The club’s VP, Savanna Lunsford, Psychology and Sociology double major, also introduced the club to interested students. Many board games were featured, with Yahtzee and Magic: The Gathering drawing the most players to their respective tables. The club had slides presenting the various brain benefits for several board games. Yahtzee makes players think strategically about which dice to keep or reroll for the chance of a more successful outcome, engaging working memory and planning. Any students interested in planning should consider joining the club as a prospective officer, as elections will be happening soon.
Students should contact the club’s advisor, Dr. Ellen Cotter, should they wish to learn more: ellen.cotter@gsw.edu.
SPORTS
BASEBALL
Feb 25 – Win 16-9 vs University of Montevallo
Feb 28 – Win 13-3 vs USC Beaufort
Mar 01 – Win 10-6 vs USC Beaufort
Mar 02 – Win 4-0 vs USC Beaufort
Mar 04 – Win 4-3 vs Albany State
Mar 07 – Loss 4-3 vs USC Aiken
Mar 08 – Win 10-7 vs USC Aiken
Mar 09 – Loss 5-3 vs USC Aiken
Mar 11 – Win 8-2 vs Albany State
Mar 14 – Win 10-5 vs Georgia College
Mar 15 – Loss 12-2 vs Geogia College
Mar 16 – Loss 5-1 vs Georgia College
Mar 18 – Loss 3-2 vs University of West Florida
Mar 19 – Loss 9-4 vs University of West Florida
Mar 21 - Win 11-3 vs Claflin University
Mar 22 –Win 30-2 vs Claflin University
Mar 22 – Win 19-7 vs Claflin University
BASKETBALL
Women’s
Feb 26 – Win 68-62 vs Clayton State
Mar 01 – Loss 68-65 vs Flagler College
Mar 05 – Win 78-77 vs Columbus State
Mar 08 – Win 59-52 vs Lander University
Mar 09 – Loss 81-72 vs North Georgia
SOFTBALL
Feb 25 – Loss 7-5 vs Auburn Montgomery
Feb 25 – Loss 5-2 vs Auburn Montgomery
Feb 28 – Win 4-0 vs Augusta University
Mar 01 – Win 12-0 vs Augusta University
Mar 01 – Win 3-2 vs Augusta University
Mar 04 – Win 9-0 vs University of Montevallo
Mar 04 – Win 4-3 vs University of Montevallo
Mar 07 – Win 3-1 vs USC Aiken
Mar 08 – Loss 4-1 vs USC Aiken
Mar 08 - Loss 5-2 vs USC Aiken
Mar 11 – Win 13-8 vs Middle Geogia State
Mar 11 - Loss 12-4 vs Middle Geogia State
Mar 14 - Loss 9-0 vs North Georgia
Mar 14 – Loss 5-3 vs North Georgia
Mar 15 – Loss 10-1 vs North Georgia
Mar 18 – Win 12-6 vs Fort Valley State
Mar 18 – Win 9-6 vs Fort Valley State
Men’s
Feb 26 – Win 71-64 vs Clayton State
Mar 01 – Win 97-93 vs Flagler College
Mar 05 – Loss 95-70 vs Columbus State
GOLF
Men’s
Feb 10 – 4th of 19 teams at Spring Kickoff
Feb 11 – 4th of 19th teams at Spring Kickoff
Feb 24 – 1st of 12 teams at Battle in the Desert
Feb 25 – 2nd of 12 teams at Battle in the Desert
Feb 26 – 1st of 12 teams at Battle in the Desert
Mar 10 – 1st of 16 teams at Southeastern Collegiate
Mar 11 – 3rd of 16 teams at Southeastern Collegiate
Mar 17 – 7th of 15 teams at Bobcat Invitational
Mar 18 – 9th of 15 teams at Bobcat Invitational
ANNOUNCEMENTS
TENNIS
Women’s
Feb 24 – Loss 4-3 vs Abraham Baldwin
Feb 27 – Win 5-2 vs Clark Atlanta University
Mar 04 – Win 4-3 vs Edward Waters
Mar 12 – Loss 7-0 vs Georgia College
Mar 21 - Loss 6-1 vs Tuskegee University
On Saturday, April 5, 2025, Americus Main Street will host its annual craft beer festival, Hot Glass Craft Beer. Tapping Americus’ rich history of artisan glass blowing and combining it with Georgia’s innovative craft brewing culture, Hot Glass Craft Beer means to bring these two artisan worlds together in one epic event. This event will feature at least 20 regional breweries with three to four different beers from each. This is also a great volunteer opportunity! The increasing demand for craft beer and the rich artisan history provides a perfect backdrop for establishing a truly unforgettable event, the uniqueness of which is guaranteed to draw beer enthusiasts, artists, and the curious alike from all over the southwest Georgia region. Our goal for this event is to encourage the continued growth of the local craft beer movement, highlight Americus’ rich history of artisan glassblowing and showcase Americus as an artisan destination. For more information, go to www.hotglasscraftbeer.com.
The city of Andersonville proudly presents The Warrior Challenge on Saturday April 19 from 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at Turner Field. The Warrior Challenge is an adrenaline-pumping fundraising event like no other, offering a variety of challenges designed not only to test physical prowess and mental grit, but also to bring the community together in order to raise funds and awareness for organizations dedicated to providing resources to children in need. The Warrior Challenge includes a mud run, obstacle course, axe throwing, food trucks, and vendors. All proceeds benefit Sumter County’s Called to Care organization, which offers resources for local children in need.
THE SOU’WESTER STAFF
Amari Rudison
Editor
arudison@radar.gsw.edu
Colby Hernandez
Media Editor
chernan4@radar.gsw.edu
Dr. Elizabeth Shiller
Faculty Advisor
elizabeth.shiller@gsw.edu
Zac Monnier
Staff Writer
zmonnier@radar.gsw.edu
Dylan Tracy
Staff Writer
dtracy1@radar.gsw.edu
Tyeshia Walker
Staff Writer
twalke36@radar.gsw.edu
Bristol Cox
Staff Writer
bcox5@radar.gsw.edu
Have a story idea or news tip? Let us know!
souwester@gsw.edu