DRAWN BY AUDRA GAMBLE
GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN A L L E N D A L E & G R A N D R A P I DS , M I C H I G A N ST U D E N T- R U N P U B L I C A T I O N S // T H U R S D A Y, D E C E M B E R 8 // VO L . 5 1 N O. 3 0
SEMESTER IN REVIEW FALL 2016
A2 | NEWS
DECEMBER 8, 2016 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLNEWS
ENROLLMENT
Introducing the class of 2020
GV welcomes a record-breaking freshman class BY HANNAH LENTZ ASSOCIATE@LANTHORN.COM
Introducing the class of
4,380 total freshmen
2020
2,654 Females 61% 1,726 Males 39%
GV welcomes a record-breaking freshman class 4,380 3,573
785 270
White
Total students of color
Hispanic or Latino
219 African American or black
145
119
32
13
7
2
Two or more races
Asian
Nonresidential international
American Indian or Alaskan native
Not reported
Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander
GVL | CHASE HASPER
Originally published Thursday, Sept. 8. For the 2016 fall semester, Grand Valley State University welcomed not only the largest freshman class in history, but also the most diverse. With 785 students of this year’s 4,380-strong student class reported being a student of color, this is the most diversified class the university has seen to date. To break the numbers down, 219 freshman students reported being African American, 13 students identify as American Indian or Alaskan native, 119 are Asian, 270 are Hispanic or Latino, and two students are Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander. Of the 4,380 freshmen, 3573 identify as white, while 145 students reported being two or more races. Included in the class of 202 are 32 non-residential international students and seven students did not report their ethnic identity, bringing the total students of color to 785. Compared
to last year’s 723 students of color, an increase is evident, though small. “GVSU has a commitment to inclusion and equity as expressed in our university values but also articulated boldly in our 2016-21 strategic plan,” said Jesse Bernal, vice president of the Division of Inclusion and Equity. “The strategic plan outcome B focuses on making GVSU more diverse and inclusive, including the demographics of our campus.” Though ethnicity is not a factor considered in GVSU’s admissions process, the university looks to create a campus climate and reputation that attracts diverse and talented students, Bernal said. Graduating diverse alumni also assists in these efforts. “Much of the credit should be given to our admissions staff and other volunteers and alumni who showcase Grand Valley so well during the recruitment season, with deep attention to inclusion and equity,” Bernal said. LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
INCLUSION
AnyBODY is a Laker New app helps students find single-user restrooms, nursing nests on campus BY JESS HODGE NEWS@LANTHORN.COM
Originally published Thursday, Sept. 8. The debate regarding transgender people and public bathrooms isn’t one that people take lightly and has been cause for heated arguments around the nation. Grand Valley State University, in its recent push to make the campus more inclusive, has launched an app to help students find single-user restrooms on campus. The app, which is aptly named “anyBODYS,” was created through collaboration among the Milton E. Ford LGBT Resource Center, the Division of Inclusion and EqVOL. 5 1
uity and Teaching Through Technology (T3). T3 is a team of GVSU students, faculty and alumni who strive to share their knowledge through technology. Staff members at GVSU’s LGBT Resource Center reached out to T3 after they felt there was a strong need to help the campus community. Andrew Plague, communication and project coordinator at the Division of Inclusion and Equity, said the motivating factor for the app was transgender and gender non-conforming Lakers. “The main point is for students, faculty and staff to be able to find restrooms on campus that they’re comfortable using,” Plague
said. “Someone who is transgender or gender nonconforming might not feel comfortable using a public restroom so they’re looking for a place where they know they are not going to face any form of harassment.” Plague said anyBODYS also benefits other groups of people as well, including people with disabilities and parents on campus. He said using the restroom can be complicated, especially for people in wheelchairs that have to maneuver around or for people who have an aid who accompanies them to the restroom. LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
EQUITY: A student uses the anyBODYS application on their phone. The application allows students, faculty and staff to find restrooms on campus they are comfortable using. GVL | KEVIN SIELAFF
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Lan thorn EDITORIAL STAFF Editor-in-chief AUDRA GAMBLE Associate Editor HANNAH LENTZ News Editor JESS HODGE Sports Editor BEAU TROUTMAN A & E Editor KATE BRANUM Laker Life Editor ASHLYN KORIENEK Digital Editor JORDAN SCHULTE Image Editor
WEB TEAM JOSH GETTER ADVERTISING STAFF Advertising Manager SARA TERWILLEGAR Asst. Advertising Manager ALEX FONSECA Campus Accounts Manager
CAITLIN BOUNDS Account Executive IAN BORTHWICK Account Executive TYLER MAPLE Account Executive JESSICA MATHEW
KEVIN SIELAFF
Ad Designer DANAE CHUDY
Layout Editor CHASE HASPER
Ad Designer VICTORIA HARTLEP
Layout Designer BECKY OPPMAN PROMOTIONS Promotions Team ALLIE STEELE
BUSINESS STAFF Business Manager NICK ZOMER Asst. Business Manager AMANDA FELLMAN Distribution Manager SHELBY CARTER
At the Lanthorn, we strive to bring you the most accurate news possible. If we make a mistake, we want to make it right. If you find any errors in fact in the Lanthorn, let us know by calling 616-331-2464 or by emailing editorial@lanthorn.com. The Grand Valley Lanthorn is published twice-weekly by Grand Valley State University students 62 times a year. One copy of this newspaper is available free of charge to any member of the Grand Valley Community. For additional copies, at $1 each, please contact our business offices.
The Lanthorn is published on recycled paper and is printed with soy bean ink. This means that our newspaper is entirely compostable. Help us do our part to be kind to the environment by recycling or composting this newspaper after you enjoy reading it. POSTMASTER: Please send form 3579 to: Grand Valley Lanthorn 0051 Kirkhof Center Grand Valley State University Allendale, MI 49401
ANSWERS PG. 14
DECEMBER 8, 2016 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLNEWS
NEWS | A3
PRESIDENT-ELECT
WINNING THEM OVER: Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks at the last rally of hs campaign Monday, Nov. 7 in Grand Rapids at the DeVos Place. Although a majority of polls predicted Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton would win, Trump won the presidential election with 279 Electoral College votes and 47.5 percent of the popular vote and will become the 45th U.S. president. GVL | EMILY FRYE
Upset: Donald Trump named 45th U.S. President BY AUDRA GAMBLE EDITORIAL@LANTHORN.COM
Originally published Thursday, Nov. 10. For the fifth time in U.S. history, the presidential nominee who won the popular vote did not become the president-elect Tuesday, Nov. 8. With 47.5 percent of the popular vote and 279 Electoral College votes, businessman Donald J. Trump will be the 45th American president. Though the predictive polls had all but called the 2016 elec-
tion for Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton, anxious voters had to wait long into the night for a winner to be announced. Despite a strong lead in the statistical analysis site www. fivethirtyeight.com model of each candidate’s chances of winning, Clinton’s “blue wall” began to crumble as polls closed across the country. Florida, Virginia, Pennsylvania, New Hampshire, Michigan, Wisconsin and Arizona all were in play throughout the night, and Clinton’s chances to make it to
the White House fell apart as the Midwest states turned red. Slow returns of election results and an increasingly tight race in Michigan gave the state a great deal of national attention, as the state’s 16 Electoral College votes waited to be claimed. Both major party candidates spent portions of their last day on the campaign trail in the Mitten State Monday, Nov. 7 as they tried to invigorate Michiganders to head to the polls. While Clinton’s lead was small, she was projected to
DEMOCRATIC RALLY
win Michigan. An upsurge in rural voters and weakerthan-expected support for Clinton in Wayne and Oakland counties turned the state for Republicans for the first time since 1992. “There was a huge failure at the state level to predict who would actually turn out and vote,” said Whitt Kilburn, a political science professor at Grand Valley State University who studies public opinion, elections and voting behavior. “In terms of attempting to predict what the electorate
will look like, the polls just didn’t anticipate that so few voters would be turning out in Wayne County. In Michigan, this was, at least in recent memory, a not-experienced surge in rural voters.” In addition to rural voters, Kilburn said a low response rate from Trump supporters in poll may have skewed the predictions. “It’s possible that the constant rhetoric from Trump about not trusting the media and pollsters could have had the effect of discouraging his
voters from participating in that process (Trump) said was so fundamentally broken,” Kilburn said. “When it gets to be so severe, there’s just no way to correct for that.” Though the historically slow results from Wayne County trickled in through early morning, Trump ended with 2,279,210 votes in Michigan, slightly edging out Clinton’s 2,267,373 votes by 11,837 ballots. LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
REPUBLICAN RALLY
Hillary Clinton campaigns at GV on Election Day eve BY AUDRA GAMBLE EDITORIAL@LANTHORN.COM
Originally published Thursday, Nov. 10. With mere hours left in the countdown until Election Day, Hillary Clinton held a rally at Grand Valley State University Fieldhouse Arena Monday, Nov. 7. Featuring all of the Democratic presidential candidate’s most popular lines from the campaign trail, 4,600 GVSU students and West Michigan residents came out to hear Clinton speak before casting their ballots. “I want to say, especially to the students that are here, I believe that America’s best days are still ahead of us if we reach for them together,” Clinton said to the crowd.
Clinton was introduced by U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), who encouraged Michiganders to head to the polls on Tuesday. “Tomorrow, we have the chance for the first time in our country’s history to truly show every little girl that just like her brother, she can dream the biggest dreams and make them happen,” Stabenow said. The vast majority of the rally attendees were Clinton supporters, though a handful of Donald Trump supporters held signs and chanted outside the rally. Shouts of “lock her up” were drowned out by chants of “Hillary” before the event began. Though Michigan’s Electoral College votes have gone to the Democratic presidential candidate consistently since 1992, the state is currently in
play for both Trump and Clinton. The most recent statewide EPIC-MRA poll shows Clinton polling at 42 percent, with Trump at 38 percent. With a margin of error of 4 percent, the two major party candidates are at a statistical tie in Michigan, battling it out for the state’s 16 electoral votes. While Clinton will continue on to a midnight rally in North Carolina, Trump will end his campaign’s scheduled events in Grand Rapids with an 11 p.m. rally with his running mate Mike Pence at DeVos Place Monday, Nov. 7. Clinton spoke about eliminating student debt, establishing paid family leave and growing jobs for small businesses. LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
SUPPORT: Crowd members support Republican nominee Donald Trump during the last rally of his presidential campaign Monday, Nov. 7. Trump was elected president of the U.S. GVL | EMILY FRYE
Trump, Pence rally in GR hours before polls open BY JESS HODGE AND SANDA VAZGEC NEWS@LANTHORN.COM
RALLYING FOR VOTES: Hillary Clinton speaks at GVSU Monday, Nov. 7. Clinton won the popular vote, but did not gain enough Electoral College votes to beat out Donald J. Trump. GVL | KEVIN SIELAFF
Originally published Thursday, Nov. 10. At the final stop in their campaign trail, Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump and his running mate Mike Pence held a rally at DeVos Place Monday, Nov. 7 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The exhibit hall quickly filled with attendees chanting, cheering and showing their support for the duo. With less than 12 hours left until the polls open, both Trump and Pence stressed the importance of Michigan voters in this election. “If we win Michigan, we will win this historical election,” Trump said. “There’s no place I’d rather be to end
my campaign (than) right here in Michigan.” Along with his promises to build a wall between the U.S. and Mexico and growing the economy, Trump catered to his Michigan crowd, emphasizing the importance of bringing the automobile industry back to Michigan. “Michigan, they’re ripping your auto companies apart and they’re taking your jobs,” he said. “They’re (going) into Mexico.” Even before Trump and Pence took the stage, an emphasis was placed on the importance of West Michigan and Michigan voters by Congressman Bill Huizenga, chairman of the Michigan Republican Party Ronna Romney McDaniel and musician Ted Nugent.
In recent years, Michigan has leaned toward the left in presidential elections. This year, however, both candidates are within four points of each other, meaning they are in a statistical tie, according to a poll done by EPIC-MRA. This has made Michigan’s 16 Electoral College votes imperative to both candidates’ path to the Oval Office. It was Trump’s eighth visit to Michigan during his presidential campaign and Grand Rapids was Trump’s fifth rally of the day. Trump also talked about the Flint water crisis and compared it to Mexico “stealing our jobs.” LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
DECEMBER 8, 2016 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLNEWS
A4 | NEWS DEVELOPMENT
New living center ready for students
Holton-Hooker Learning and Living Center open for fall semester BY MEGHAN MCBRADY MMCBRADY@LANTHORN.COM
Originally published Monday, Aug. 29. As the new school year approaches, students, faculty, staff and leaders from around the West Michigan community celebrated the new Holton-Hooker Learning and Living Center dedication ceremony Friday, Aug. 26. Accommodating more than 498 students in clusterstyle housing, which emphasizes rooms being situated around bathrooms and lounge spaces, the living-learning center is air-conditioned, has a game room in the basement, a multipurpose room and a kitchen on every floor. Four classrooms, a computer lab and a media lab are also included in the living-learning center so students can have the chance to conduct an interdisciplinary learning experience. The center marks the newest addition to student housing on Grand Valley State University’s Allendale Campus. The dedication event recognized the leadership of Earl and Donnalee Holton and Bob and Judy Hooker for their philanthropic efforts throughout the region. “You are enriching the lives now not with your leadership only as in years past, but enriching the lives of students for generations to come with lend-
ing your names right here,” said GVSU President Thomas Haas during the welcome address. As active and engaged leaders throughout West Michigan, both couples served on GVSU’s Board of Trustees, the GVSU Foundation Board and conducted multiple fundraising campaigns throughout the years, which helped to expand GVSU’s downtown campus. Past leadership accomplishments also have the Holtons chairing the first Children’s Miracle Network telethon in West Michigan, while Bob Hooker was the co-chair of campaigns for the DeVos Place and Judy Hooker previously served as the director of the Dyer-Ives Foundation. John C. Kennedy, chairman on GVSU’s Board of Trustees, said he was honored to be at the unveiling of the living-learning that exceeds leadership in energy and environmental design (LEED) standards. He also said he was honored to be at a ceremony that honored the couples who have been wonderful teachers and mentors in leadership throughout GVSU and west Michigan and uphold the ideals of student success. “Through watching you work and how you serve our community, you have been a great example to us all,” he said. “At Grand Valley we have enjoyed 55 years of history and a history of leader-
GROWING COMMUNITY: Students, faculty, staff and community members gather outside the newly opened Holton-Hooker Learning and Living Center for the official dedication ceremony for the new housing development this summer Friday, Aug. 26. GVL | KEVIN SIELAFF
ship with 57 trustees, with 455 years of service, a lot of those are the four of you. “We are blessed as an organization because of the many years of service you have provided and that others have done.” Ella Fritzemeier, GVSU’s student senate president and a residential assistant in the
Holton-Hooker Learning and Living Center, said helping the freshman students move into the new housing center was a positive reminder on how the GVSU community continues to expand and invest on the Allendale Campus. The learning-living center, she said, will only help to amplify the development of
its students and make them engaged members of GVSU’s academic and social lives. “Being surrounded by people who are going through the same changes and challenges that you are, partaking new experiences and developing relationships with so many different people creates that unique freshman experience
that allows students at Grand Valley to learn so much about themselves,” Fritzemeier said. “This space is so important to achieving our mission and our mission is clear in shaping our students’ lives, their professions and society,” Haas said. “We are here to support an environment for all to succeed.”
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Trustees approve new health sciences building GV to add 84,000 square feet of space with $46.5 million project BY AUDRA GAMBLE EDITORIAL@LANTHORN.COM
INCREASE ON INVESTMENT: A rendering of the newly approved health sciences building approved by the GVSU Board of Trustees during its meeting Friday, Nov. 4. COURTESY | GVSU FACILITIES PLANNING
Originally published Monday, Nov. 7. The Grand Valley State University Board of Trustees approved plans for a new health sciences building in Grand Rapids at its latest meeting Friday, Nov. 4. The building, which will be located on Lafayette Avenue and Hastings Street, will be ready for move-in May of 2018. The $46.5 million project includes a $9 million parking structure and a five-story, $37.5 million building. According to the report provided to the Board of Trustees, the health sciences building “will be funded by a combination of donor contributions, university-issued bonds and campus development funds.” The budget for the building includes $3.1 million for professional services and fees, $27.4 million for construction services and site utilities, $4.45 million for furniture, equipment and telecommunications and $2.55 million for unexpected contingency expenses. At the moment, GVSU is leasing around 11,000 square feet in the surrounding area
to accommodate its lack of offices for faculty and staff. “We have had a long-term plan to increase our investment in the health professions and nursing as part of the mission of Grand Rapids and the recognition of the high demand for these programs among our students,” said Gayle Davis, GVSU provost and vice president for academic and student affairs. “We have overflowed our current Center for Health Sciences, and having been in this situation for a number of years, this is in an effort to take care of the spaces we have had to lease. “We will be able to bring those people back into the main campus buildings there at that location and save quite a lot of money on leasing about 11,000 square feet that we have had to acquire in the past to take care of our needs.” The 84,000 square feet building will include four classrooms, 15 teaching laboratories, one computer lab, two departmental suites and 90 faculty offices. The new addition to GVSU’s campus will also include indoor and outdoor student study spaces, storage rooms and student organization meeting space. The instructional space
and offices will be used by programs in the College of Health Professions and the Kirkhof College of Nursing. Rockford Construction Co. has been selected as the construction manager and Fishbeck, Thompson, Carr and Huber, Inc. will be the project architect and engineer. Construction is expected to begin this December, with a groundbreaking ceremony later this month. Designs for the building are nearly done, and nearby residents have been consulted about the project. “The building has been modified quite extensively to address some of the concerns of the surrounding neighborhood,” said James Moyer, associate vice president for facilities planning at GVSU. “(There will be) 240 parking spaces and a parking ramp. We were asked by the community to make the parking structure look less like a stack of concrete blocks to something that is more appealing to the neighborhood.” LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Recreation center expansion continues
Phase one of construction finished, second phase underway BY DYLAN GROSSER DGROSSER@LANTHORN.COM
Originally published Monday, Aug. 22. Part one of the construction on the Recreation Center that began in September of 2015 has now been completed. Returning students will most likely notice the new main entrance, but space was also added for strength training, free weights and weight machines, along with a new studio for group exercise classes. Brad Wallace, director of athletic and recreational facilities, said approximately 50,000 square feet of space was added, which doubles the size of the old Recreation Center.
Phase two of the construction is now underway, and will likely be completed in the winter 2017 semester. In phase two, new basketball and volleyball courts will be added, as well as a third multi-activity court which, Wallace said, will look like a “small hockey rink with a rubberized floor.” “Individuals, groups and classes will enjoy activities such as soccer, floor hockey and basketball in this area,” Wallace said. The expansions were approved by the Board of Trustees in February of 2015 at $7.2 million for phase one and $12.8 million for phase two. LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
BULKING UP: Students exercise in the recreation center after the first phase is officially finished. Part one of the construction began in September of 2015 and included space, added strength training and a new studio for group exercise classes. GVL | LUKE HOLMES
DECEMBER 8, 2016 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLNEWS
NEWS | A5
MARCH
AWARENESS
‘GV needs POC’ BY JESS HODGE NEWS@LANTHORN.COM
Originally published Monday, Sept. 26. Chants of “GV needs POC” reverberated against the Cook Carillon Tower in the center of Grand Valley State University as hundreds of students, faculty and staff gathered for a peaceful demonstration. People of different races, ethnicities and genders gathered to stand in solidarity with those protesting racism and police brutality Friday, Sept. 23. Antoinette Jackson, president of GVSU’s NAACP chapter, said the demonstration was prompted by recent events at Eastern Michigan University where racial slurs against people of color were written on and inside buildings. A march starting at Kleiner Commons kicked
the GVSU event off. “No justice, no peace, racism must cease,” participants chanted. “Our people united will never be defeated.” The march went through the Mary Idema Pew Library and into Kirkhof Center, where the demonstrators linked arms and stood in silence for 10 minutes. When the demonstration went outside to the Cook Carillon Tower, different student organizations took turns speaking about why people of color and the colored community at GVSU matter. Noemi Jimenez, vice president of GVSU’s Laker Familia, spoke to the crowd and challenged those in attendance to question people who say racist remarks. “Ask them ‘why do you feel that way? why do you look at me that way? Why do you
Lakers stand in support of students of color during a peaceful demonstration
feel I don’t matter?’ and then after they answer, tell them your experiences,” Jimenez said. “They have a reality, you might be the first person of color that they ever meet. Question them, don’t just yell at them. (You) can change their reality by sharing your own reality with them.” Markeyna Jefferson, a GVSU student of color representing the GVSU photography club, said it is important to stand up against stereotypes, prejudice, ignorance and racism and promised to stand up for the humanity and social justice of minorities. “I matter because I want to further my education,” she said. “GVSU will not tolerate racism.” LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
SPEAKING OUT: Grand Rapidians protest at the “Not My President” rally in Rosa Parks Circle Thursday, Nov. 10. People protested the election of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency. GVL | EMILY FRYE
‘Not my president’ More than 2,000 protesters march in downtown rally BY SANDA VAZGEC
ASSISTANTNEWS@LANTHORN.COM
Originally published Monday, Nov. 14. The city of Grand Rapids, Michigan came to a halt on the evening of Thursday, Nov. 10 as more than 2,000 protesters took over the streets, marching in opposition to the election of Donald Trump as president of the U.S. Since the first protest, several other marches, including a second in downtown Grand Rapids Saturday, Nov. 12 have emerged across the nation. The Thursday night rally began around 5 p.m. as hundreds of people gathered in Rosa Parks Circle to take part in a “Not My President” peaceful protest.
Organizers of the event spoke to the crowd addressing their concerns and stating a need to make sure their voices are heard. The event was organized via Facebook and those leading the cause only expected about 50 people to show up. Soon, hundreds of people turned into thousands when a “Take it to the streets” chant around 6 p.m. prompted protesters to march throughout the city for approximately two hours. People of all ages, genders, religions and races walked side by side, holding up signs and chanting as they flooded the streets, causing traffic to stop and redirect. Protesters chanted “Love trumps hate,” “I reject the president-elect” and “Sí se puede,” which translates
to “Yes we can” in Spanish. Residents of the city looked out from their windows, shouting and some joining in throughout the march. Anna Blauw, a participant in the protest, said for her, the election of Donald Trump shows a darker side to the U.S. “When our country elected Donald Trump, (it) said we don’t care about the LGBT community, people of color, women and minorities and that’s not OK with me,” Blauw said. “I don’t want to be represented by someone like that because I don’t believe that’s what we should stand for as a country.” LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
WHY WE MATTER: Cheyanna Green-Molett raises her fist alongside other students in a demonstration in support of people of color Friday, Sept. 23 on GVSU’s Allendale Campus. GVL | KEVIN SIELAFF
DECEMBER 8, 2016 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLNEWS
A6 | NEWS CRIME
GV addresses off-campus sexual assaults Increases in police presence, security measures in place after four reported sexual assaults BY HANNAH LENTZ ASSOCIATE@LANTHORN.COM
Originally published Monday, October 3. Increased police presence, security measures in place after four reported sexual assaults Since the start of this semester, four sexual assaults have been reported at Grand Valley State University. All four sexual assaults have occurred off campus and were perpetrated by individuals the victims did not recognize. After several email notifications about student safety were distributed to Lakers, administrators are addressing students’ fears about the rash of reports. During the University Academic Senate meeting Friday, Sept. 28, faculty and administrators focused on the recent increase in reported sexual assaults near campus. “We have been really worried and saddened by this rash of sexual assaults near our campus,” said Gayle Davis, provost and executive vice president for
academic and student affairs. “We have had an all-handson-deck approach to thinking about how we are communicating issues and what we can do to further the preventative actions we’re taking on campus to prevent this kind of activity.” Additional security measures include an increase in communication with on-campus residence assistants, increased police patrols during the weekends, collaboration with student leaders on matters of creating an educated community and a deeper look at busing routes and schedules. All investigations regarding these reported acts of violence are under investigation by Ottawa County officials and as information is available, the community will be updated, said Dean of Students Eileen Sullivan. Though there is no official evidence these crimes are related, Sullivan mentioned the fact that at least two of the reports came in close proximity to each other, featuring similar details.
“We want to stress the fact that it’s always the perpetrators’ fault in these kinds of situations and we want to keep our students safe,” Sullivan said “These cases are a little bit unusual because these are three reports of stranger assaults that are, to date, unsolved.” In addition to the importance of keeping the community updated and aware, Sullivan commented on the actions of the university in compliance with the Clery Act laws set in place for public universities. She touched on the importance of timely warnings and the GVSU administration’s ongoing commitment to student safety. “Clery doesn’t require reports of off-campus crimes but we have so many students that live in areas where these assaults have taken place that we didn’t think twice about issuing the brief statements that you received,” she said. Currently, the GVSU police department and university administration are in communication with the
SAFETY
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Ottawa County Sheriff ’s Department, as the locations where the most recent sexual assaults have taken place have been under Ottawa County’s jurisdiction. GVPD has offered its support in taking safety measures to prevent additional crime from the perpetrator or perpetrators of the recent acts of sexual violence.
Following the timely warnings sent out to students after the reports of assault, Sullivan partnered with Vice President of Inclusion and Equity Jesse Bernal to send out additional information about resources available to students. Additionally, an email was sent out to community members from President Thomas Haas with a more detailed commentary
on recent incidents. In order to ensure the university is taking all possible measures of prevention, Sullivan has been in talks with housing and residence life about educational opportunities across campus. LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
POLICE
Annual GV safety report shows uptick in reported sexual assaults BY HANNAH LENTZ ASSOCIATE@LANTHORN.COM
MAKING PLANS: An overhead view of 48th Avenue. Allendale Charter Township approved permanent lights and sidewalks to be installed along 48th Avenue and Pierce Street. GVL | KEVIN SIELAFF
Permanent lights to be installed on 48th Avenue BY HANNAH LENTZ ASSOCIATE@LANTHORN.COM
Originally published Thursday, October 27. Students, faculty, staff and administrators around Grand Valley State University have been pushing Allendale Charter Township for lighting and sidewalks along 48th Avenue and Pierce Street for years. Earlier in October, there were six temporary light fixtures placed along 48th Avenue. However, the community has been searching for a permanent solution to the lighting problem, which has now been solved. At its meeting Monday, Oct. 24, the Allendale Charter Township Board of Trustees approved a permanent plan for lighting along 48th Avenue. Jerry Alkema, Allendale Township supervisor, said there will be 37 lights on the west side of 48th Avenue, two of which GVSU
will be taking care of. The lights will be spaced 150 feet apart from each other. However, there were some concerns with the type of the lights, raised by Laurie Richards, the Allendale Township clerk. The lights in the proposed plan to be put in are high pressure sodium (HPS) lights instead of light emitting diode (LED) lights. Richards believed LED lights might be brighter, last longer and therefore cheaper because they will need to implement less lights as the light will carry farther. “Are these (HPS lights) comparable is what I’m asking because we have a sodium light by my house and it’s not very bright,” said Pat Door, an Allendale Township trustee. “I want these college kids to be safe.” Representatives form Consumers Energy were at the meeting and assured the board they explored the options of both LED and
HPS lights and said that HPS lights actually emit a farther light, or a brighter lumen, than LED lights, so there wouldn’t be much of a difference. Additionally, the fixtures for LED lights cost about $1,000 more a piece than fixtures for HPS lights. When fixtures cost more, the monthly maintenance cost also increases. Also, the consumption cost permonth would be within $1 of each other. Alkema also said the lights can’t get closer together than 125 feet, so they are already placing lights fairly close to each other. Tim Thimmesch, associate vice president of facility services at GVSU, was also at the meeting and said the lights were going to be beneficial for students.
Originally published Monday, September 26. After months of collaboration and deliberation among more than 50 departments across campus, the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is now available to the public. One of the larger sections within the document focuses specifically on sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking. With an increase of reports of sexual assault on Grand Valley State University’s campuses, explanation and education was an important theme for this year’s report. This year’s report documented a hike in reported sexual assaults of GVSU students. Compared to seven incidents reported in 2014, there were 15 cases reported in 2015. It should be noted, however, that
five of the incidents reported in 2015 actually occurred in 2014, said GVSU police department Captain Brandon DeHaan, who serves as GVSU’s Clery compliance officer. Though this hike is a matter of concern, it also reflects the work of the university to create an open and safe environment for students to report acts of violence so that campus security can take the acceptable measures to hold individuals responsible, DeHaan said. “This highlights the work (GVSU) has done to encourage individuals to report these offenses,” DeHaan said. “We know sexual assaults are the most underreported of all criminal activities. We don’t believe there has been an increase in the number of sexual assaults, but rather the environment has changed.” These cases are not identified as either “opened” or “closed,” but rather reflect all
reports of sexual violence to any representative for student safety including officers, responsible employees or representatives from the Women’s Center. This also includes cases that are reported where the victim-survivor does not wish to continue with an investigation. “We’ve broken the areas on sexual assault down as well because we wanted to make it easier for individuals to find information in the annual report,” DeHaan said. The university has put a heavy focus on the paradigm that surrounds sexual assault through programs like the “It’s On Us” campaign and the creation of several positions on campus that cater to students’ needs following acts of violence, DeHaan said. LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
REPORTING PROBLEMS: A Grand Valley State University police officer interacts with students. The annual report showed an uptick in reported sexual assaults of GVSU students. GVL | EMILY FRYE
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DECEMBER 8, 2016 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLNEWS
NEWS | A7
HOUSING
Living the simple life
GV student to live out of a van all year
SUSTAINABLE STUDENT LIVING: Jake Czerwinski studies on his laptop in his refurbished 1992 Dodge B350 van he calls Maive. Czerwinski didn’t want to spend his summer looking for places to live, so he created his own home by revamping his van to make it into a fully-functional living space fit with lights, a desk, shelving units, electrical outlets, a working sink and a couch that converts into a bed. GVL | SANDA VAZGEC BY SANDA VAZGEC
ASSISTANTNEWS@LANTHORN.COM
Originally published Thursday, Sept. 7. Deciding on a place to live can be one of the most stressful decisions a college student has to make. Students typically have three
options when it comes to housing: living on campus, off campus or commuting from home. However, one Grand Valley State University senior has found an alternative to the typical college housing situation. For the next year, Jake Czerwinski will wake up
every morning in his 1992 Dodge B350 van named Maive, which he has refurbished to make into a fully functional living space. With the lease for his house coming to an end, two of his roommates set to study abroad for the summer and another spending the break at home,
Czerwinski decided he didn’t want to spend the summer looking for places to live. “I don’t remember the first time I saw someone living in a van and thought maybe that was an idea or if someone just said something as a joke,” Czerwinski said. “But it came up and I
just thought that’s what I’m going to do.” When Czerwinski mentioned his plans to his friends and family they didn’t think much of it or take it very seriously. That was until he actually bought the van. His search for a van began in early March before his spring
break trip to Fort Lauderdale. After looking on Craig’s List for vans in Florida, he found one that he liked, made a phone call and was set to have a test drive upon his arrival. LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
Rising above the rubble
VOLUNTEERISM
GV student helps young Syrian refugees integrate in Lebanon BY HANNAH LENTZ ASSOCIATE@LANTHORN.COM
TEACHING THOSE IN NEED: Ibtisam Matta teaches a student in Lebanon. Matta traveled to Lebanon over the summer as a volunteer and worked with children of Syrian refugees. COURTESY | IBTISAM MATTA
Originally published Thursday, Sept. 29. Ibtisam Matta woke up at 5:40 a.m. this morning. She packed her backpack with books, notebooks, pencils and pens and left by 6 a.m. to make it to the gym before the start of her day. In all aspects, she’s the average college student. She does her homework, reads most of her assigned materials and has a part-time job. A few months ago, her schedule looked very different. This summer, Matta spent three weeks of her vacation volunteering to help Syrian children in informal settlements in the neighboring country of Lebanon. During her time as a volunteer through Salam LADC, a local Lebanese nongovernmental organization (NGO), Matta worked with children of Syrian refugees to teach them preliminary English skills before they attend-
ed public school. In addition to providing educational tools, Matta and her group of volunteers helped with education, health, livestock, food distribution and clothing distribution for refugees in need. In order to accommodate for the constant influx in Syrian refugees in neighboring countries, there is an extreme need for volunteers and resources. That’s where Matta, and those like Matta, have stepped in. “It’s a very flexible NGO,” Matta said. “A lot of NGOs over there have specific things they are geared toward, but Salam tries to be flexible with what kind of aid they give to accommodate for what people need, especially medically.” But before volunteers, before informal settlements were formed to support refugees, Syria was, and is, a country in chaos, battling through a civil war. In March of 2011, prodemocracy protests erupted in the southwestern Syrian
city of Deraa. Students had been arrested and tortured for painting revolutionary symbols on a school wall. Security forces responded by opening fire on demonstrators. Since 2011, more than 11.5 percent of Syria’s pre-war population has been wounded or killed, according to the Syrian Center for Policy Research. Those remaining behind Syrian borders have been left looking for alternative housing options. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), 4.8 million Syrians have fled to Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt and Iraq, and 6.6 million are internally displaced within Syria. Meanwhile, about one million have requested asylum in Europe. One of the places refugees have fled to is the Beqaa Valley, the place of an informal settlement for Syrian, Palestinian and Lebanese families in need that Matta spent her time at. LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
SUSTAINABILITY
Finding treasure in another man’s trash
GV student cuts down on food waste by dumpster diving BY SANDA VAZGEC
ASSISTANTNEWS@LANTHORN.COM
Originally published Monday, Nov. 28. In 2010, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reported over 131 billion pounds of food waste in the country. This resulted in consumers and retailers wasting near $161 billion in food which could have been consumed, but was sent to landfills instead. Matt Smith, a Grand Valley State University freshman, is doing everything he can to help cut down the amount of food wasted in his community. While many college students spend their downtime catching up on a Netflix series, Smith spends his time rummaging through dumpsters. His main goal is to recover as much food as he can and donate it to those in need within the community. Smith said he finds most
of the food in the dumpsters of smaller retail stores, since larger stores have trash compactors, which make food unsalvageable. “A lot of these stores throw the food away because of the expiration date,” Smith said. “But that date is just put there by the manufacturer as a suggestion for what the peak time they think to eat it is. The food is actually good for two, maybe three years after that.” Smith added many stores have to throw out a large quantity of food to make room for new shipment. This is geared more toward business and profit rather than trying to prevent the serious consequences of food waste. The USDA Economic Research Service estimates that 30 to 40 percent of the food supply is wasted, which not only hinders food security but is also contributing to environmental issues.
Most of the food Smith finds is packaged in plastic wrappers or boxes, which is usually all thrown into a large plastic bag. This protects the food from any contamination while in the dumpster. While dumpster diving is not illegal in Michigan, Smith said he has run into to some awkward encounters with store employees. “It usually depends on who finds you,” Smith said. “If it’s just an employee they’ll usually just tell me to hurry up and leave, but if a manager sees me they’ll get pretty angry, sometimes threaten to call the police.” Dumpster divers can be limited when the area has a “No trespassing” sign or if the dumpster is locked behind a gate, invasion of these circumstances could lead to legal action against divers. While salvaging food has been his main priority, Smith has also recovered electronics,
SALVAGE: Matt Smith sorts through trash in a dumpster on GVSU’s campus. Smith tries to cut down on food waste by rummaging through dumpsters to find food fit to donate to others. GVL | SANDA VAZGEC
clothing, books, video games and household items. His laptop and all of his school supplies were found while diving. During his dives, Smith said he’s found that retail stores sometimes intentionally sabotage the merchandise they throw away so it cannot be salvaged or reused.
“Once I found an entire box of GPS (devices) and each one’s screen was smashed,” Smith said. “I’ve seen it where they open an entire box of granola bars and just slit each one open so they can’t be eaten. It’s like if they can’t make a profit off it then no one else can have it so they destroy it.” Since he started dumpster
diving last year, Smith estimates he has recovered over $33,000 in goods. His basement at home is full of recovered food. In addition to donating to local pantries, he also gives food away on campus and advocates for food waste awareness. LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
DECEMBER 8, 2016 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLNEWS
A8 | NEWS NEW LAKER
Bart Merkle leaves big shoes to fill
Eileen Sullivan will start work as the new dean of students July 1 BY JESS HODGE NEWS@LANTHORN.COM
Originally published Monday, May 9. As Bart Merkle says goodbye after 32 years of serving as Grand Valley State University’s dean of students, someone new will take his place. April 25 started the first of three presentations put on
by the finalists all vying for the open position of GVSU’s vice provost for student affairs and dean of students. Sidney Childs, Eileen Sullivan and George McClellan were the three final candidates considered for the position. On May 5, GVSU Provost of Student Affairs Gayle Davis announced the one candidate who stood above the rest and earned her
spot as a Laker: Eileen Sullivan. “She has a lot of energy, is very outgoing and easy to connect with,” Davis said. “I think she will be easily accessible to students and she will be one of those people students will know.” Sullivan and both of her fellow candidates focused on ideas that could address potential barriers to student
success at GVSU during their presentations. However, Sullivan was able to hone in on what that meant to her and how she would really benefit GVSU students. “Grand Valley might be a place that I could contribute in some small way based on a variety of experiences,” she said. “For me, this opportunity really
WELCOME TO GVSU: Eileen Sullivan gives her presentation about her qualifications to the hiring board in the Kirkhof Center Tuesday, April 26. Sullivan took over for Bart Merkle as dean of students and vice provost for student affairs at GVSU. GVL | LUKE HOLMES
speaks to a culmination of maybe a lot of different experiences that I’ve had over the past several years.” Her understanding of the important of a college education started at a young age when her parents, faculty members at Eastern Illinois University, instilled this value in her. She then worked her way through school, beginning with earning her bachelor’s degree in business and marketing from EIU. She also received her master’s in education and guidance and counseling/student personnel work from EIU. The pinnacle of her education was earning a Ph.D in higher education administration from Bowling Green State University. “There are so many things that we can do as educators to remove the barriers for students,” Sullivan said. “I think sometimes they are institutionally imposed and it’s within our own reach to solve some policy problems to help get some things out of the way for students to be more successful.” Since 2007, Sullivan has worked as the dean of students at Elmhurst College in Elmhurst, Illinois. The college is significantly smaller than GVSU,
with an enrollment of about 3,000 undergraduate students, compared to GVSU’s 25,000 students. Size doesn’t matter, however, when it comes to Sullivan’s ideas for student success. Her main point of discussion during her presentation revolved around the idea of engaging learners at all levels. Her efforts on focusing on student success began with diversity and inclusion, noting that inclusion is more important than diversity. “It’s great if we have our campuses reflect more of the world, which is a more diversified student body and a campus,” Sullivan said. “But if people don’t feel that they belong, then they don’t stay and it’s also not a good experience for them.” Another focus was to identify and understand who the students are at GVSU and to find strategies to meet all of their needs. By this, she means non-traditional students such as adults who come back after a hiatus, students of color, first generation students and GVSU’s veteran students in addition to traditional students. LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
RETIREMENT
Provost Gayle Davis starts final year at GV BY JESS HODGE NEWS@LANTHORN.COM
Originally published Monday, Aug. 22. Since 2002, Gayle Davis has watched Grand Valley State University’s population steadily increase from 20,000 to 25,000 students. As the provost and executive vice president of academic and student affairs, Davis has played a vital role in helping GVSU turn from a medium school into one of Michigan’s most prominent universities. The 2016-17 school year will mark Davis’ 15th and final year at GVSU. Even though Davis is sad to leave, she knows GVSU will continue to grow as it first did when she arrived. Although she will not be involved in the search for her successor, Davis helped pick out the search team and is confident in the team’s abilities. The search team consists of about a dozen people, who have already begun meeting. Davis believes one of the most important qualities to look for in possible candidates is their ability to maintain the culture at GVSU. “When I say the culture I mean the culture we have with shared governance being so closely tied to this office and my own commitment to shared governance. I think it
all works really well right now,” she explained. “The other is the student culture. I feel like we have done our best to empower students to have different leadership roles and different opportunities to really round out whatever their major is and I hope we don’t ever lose that.” Unlike other schools, Davis said, GVSU has a different way of looking at things when it comes to students. “We are pretty unusual,” she said. “If we are in a knot trying to figure out something in senate, and it has to do with some policy related to the curriculum or other studentorientated things, all I really have to say is ‘so what would be best for our students?’” With one year left, Davis is looking to wrap up as many projects as possible. She also wants to give the new provost ample instruction for their years. “Getting the division in place for the next provost so that if there are loose ends I can tie up within a year then that is on the list,” she explained. “I’ve been writing a log of our activities, when we did what, where the senate is on this and that, there is such history to so many of the bigger decisions that we make in my office.” As someone who has been here for nearly 15 years, Davis has made multiple changes to academic
and student affairs at GVSU. When she first got here, Davis recalls GVSU being in the transitional period of a small school to becoming a medium, more complex university. As with any growing institution, there were changes that needed to be made to accommodate the growing campus. “The reorganization came first, (then) we did a lot of work on general education, a lot of work on faculty workload being fairer across the university, those things that took it from a whole bunch of divisional clusters in academics and made it a university,” Davis explained. “I have felt that I came here and trying to mature the policies and get us more in the mindset of opportunities as well as obligations to students when we offer this huge array of opportunities to them. It was the next stage of Grand Valley’s growth that we needed to do.” In a statement released after the announcement of Davis’ retirement, GVSU President Thomas Haas said Davis has “left an indelible mark on Grand Valley and Michigan,” and she has made the GVSU community a “better place to work and live.” “I’ve loved this place (like) it’s home,” Davis said of her retirement. “It was a very hard decision for me to make.”
SAYING GOODBYE: Gayle Davis talks during the Grand Valley State University Board of Trustees meeting Friday, July 10 about the 3.0 percent increase on tuition rates. GVL | KEVIN SIELAFF
ANSWERS PG. 14
LAKER LIFE | A9
DECEMBER 8, 2016 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLLAKERLIFE CAMPUS EVENTS
Spotlight Productions eliminates Laker homecoming concert Fund reallocation to allow for a larger spring show BY ASHLYN KORIENEK LAKERLIFE@LANTHORN.COM
Originally published Thursday, Sept. 15. Throughout the years, Grand Valley State University’s Spotlight Productions team has hosted a wide variety of performances aimed at entertaining both students and the community. Refocusing the budget for 2016-17, the student-run program has made some changes to this year’s schedule of events. Spotlight Productions President Kyle Cronin said the annual homecoming show will be removed from the calendar and a smaller event will take its place. Cronin said the change will increase the overall budget for the 2017 spring concert. As a result, Spotlight Productions will feature a more well-
known artist in the hopes of increasing student interest. Last year, the homecoming show featured comedy acts Aidy Bryant and Jay Pharoah of Saturday Night Live fame. For 2016, Cronin said Spotlight Productions will contribute to the homecoming week by searching for a student to host the Office of Student Life’s annual LipSync event. During the first Saturday Night Dive event on Oct. 1, which is an open-mic comedy night, Spotlight will host a talent themed show to elect the new host for LipSync. “I think the public will respond positively to this change,” Cronin said. “We recognize students want larger scale shows from artists that they know, and we are adjusting the way we plan
our events to mirror that. “Our idea is to have a bigger artist, more promotions and make it a bigger deal than it has been in the past.” Prior to the change, Cronin said Spotlight’s overall budget for the 2016-17 year, allocated by student senate, was decreased by $10,000. In past years, he said the budget hovered around $50,000 to $60,000. For this year’s spring concert, country artists Dan + Shay were booked for a $25,000 fee. By shrinking the size of the homecoming event, Cronin said the updated budget will focus on costs for one concert instead of dividing the budget. LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
STEAL THE SHOW: Shay Mooney serenades the crowd at the spring concert Thursday, April 7. The award-winning country duo Dan + Shay headlined the Spotlight Productions show. GVL | EMILY FRYE
GRAND RAPIDS
GV welcomes ArtPrize Eight BY ASHLYN KORIENEK LAKERLIFE@LANTHORN.COM
TRADITIONS: Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss opens ArtPrize Eight Wednesday, Sept. 21. The Laker Marching Band performed in Rosa Parks Circle with the GVSU dance company. GVL | ASHLYN KORIENEK
Originally published Thursday, Sept. 22. Welcoming the eighth annual ArtPrize competition, Grand Valley State University partnered with ArtPrize and inspired participants to celebrate their uniqueness. This year, GVSU’s Laker Marching Band and dance company performed Wednesday, Sept. 21 alongside community members in the WGVU and PBS Nerd Walk to launch the city-wide art competition. The band started the festivities with a performance at the Eberhard Center on GVSU’s Pew Campus playing hit-songs such as “Kashmir” by Led Zeppelin and “YMCA.” The band and dancers performed a second time in the Grand Rapids Rosa Parks Circle, directed by President Thomas Haas. Hannah Seidel, assistant professor of dance, said the dancers practiced for three class periods to ensure a smooth performance for the event. As this is the first performance for many students, she said this allows the new dancers to gain experience
and bond with others. The dance company has performed at the opening day event since 2012. Joining the festivities, the fourth annual WGVU and PBS Nerd Walk gave the community a chance to embrace their inner uniqueness dressed as their favorite PBS or fictional character. The attendees marched behind the band across the Blue Pedestrian Bridge to the Rosa Parks Circle performance. Following the walk, Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss welcomed ArtPrize with her official proclamation. For the 2015 Nerd Walk event, the theme was a Bob Ross look-alike contest where 500 participants walked in Bob Ross wigs. This year’s theme focused on PBS characters, and other fictional characters. Tim Eernisse, director of development and marketing for WGVU public media, said this year was the third partnership with WGVU and PBS sponsoring the Nerd Walk. This year, the event started at the Eberhard Center rather than Rosa Parks Circle to ensure students could arrive direct-
ly from the bus stop. “The purpose behind this is we’re all nerds for something,” Eernisse said. “It can be science, or for us, PBS and NPR. The idea is to say it’s OK, so let’s embrace it.” The Nerd Walk originally started at Arizona State University, where Eernisse picked up the idea in coordination with colleagues at PBS. “People come to have fun, embrace themselves and embrace what is ArtPrize,” he said. “The hope is to show that we aren’t the old PBS anymore, we are not only the programs you watched when you were a kid. “We are trying to say to a different demographic, mainly college students, that we’re still here and we have some really great programs — it’s OK to tell your friends.” Coordinating the university’s venue activity, Stacey Tvedten, programs manager at the GVSU Art Gallery, organizes community collaborations with the university’s featured ArtPrize artists and GVSU departments. LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
PHILANTHROPY
Greek life by the numbers BY ASHLYN KORIENEK LAKERLIFE@LANTHORN.COM
Originally published Thursday, Oct. 6. From walking miles for Multiple Sclerosis awareness to hosting baking competitions, the Greek life at Grand Valley State University is committed to building philanthropic efforts and straightening the community. For the 2015 calendar year,
the funds raised by the GVSU Greek community increased by $44,500 compared to the 2014 amount. Last year, both fraternities and sororities completed 50,772 hours of direct service. “Our numbers continue to rise each year and I am always proud of the effort our community puts into their philanthropy and service,” said Santiago Gayton, assistant director for fraternity and sorority life. “I hope they continue to do good
work and I look forward to seeing the numbers for 2016.” For 2015, Gayton said the Greek community raised $219,255, far surpassing the $174,756 total for 2014. Participating in the action, 17 sororities and 16 fraternities contributed to this number during 2015. In total, all chapters were comprised of 1,644 members who contributed to the effort. “There’s no established re-
quirement for our organization to hit,” Gayton said. “Although, many organizations strive to break their previous year’s totals and a few are competitive between one another. I would say our goal as a community to have a positive impact was hit, and we are very proud of the total dollar amount raised.” As the bid night for 2016 finalized Monday, Sept. 26 for sororities and Tuesday, Sept. 27 for fraternities, both the GVSU
COMMUNITY: The sisters of GVSU’s Tri Sigma chapter cheer on new sisters at the 2016 bid night for the fall formal recruitment Monday, Sept. 26. The Rho Gammas rejoined their respective chapters after recruiting and helping members. COURTESY | PANHELLENIC COUNCIL
GV chapters raise more than $200,000 for charity Interfraternity Council (IFC) and Panhellenic Council reported an increase in the number of members recruited from previous years. President of the Panhellenic Council Malayna Hasmanis said the final number of bids for 2016 is still being process, but the total number is climbing over 400. For 2015, the fall recruitment brought in 404 bids, which Hasmanis is confident has increased this fall. “Although the numbers are still being finalized with recruitment ending a little more than a week ago, it is evident there is a distinct increase,” Hasmanis said. “This is so exciting to know there is a growing interest in women wanting to be a part of our Greek community.” Traditionally, the IFC runs its process differently than the Panhellenic Council as bids are made year-round per chapter. However, IFC President Speros Panagos said the fall recruitment process is vital to attracting the new student population. Although he is unsure of the exact total from last year’s recruitment, Panagos is also sure the number of bids has escalated for 2016 in efforts to increase Greek awareness.
“IFC operates under a 365-recruitment style, where any fraternity can issue a bid to a potential new member if they see fit,” he said. “I am positive we have seen a sizable increase in number of accepted and handed out bids this fall from the last.” In addition, Gayton said the total new members from 2015 was 728, which includes winter recruitment as well. These new members are crucial to increasing participation and awareness on Greek life efforts throughout the year. Despite the individual philanthropic and recruitment efforts each chapter contributes, Gayton said GVSU Greek life is focused on creating a campus-wide impact reaching out to numerous community partners. “The overarching goal is to give back to our community,” he said. “As engaged college students and members of value based communities, we recognize that we are members of a larger community. We want to give back to the GVSU community and to the surrounding Allendale and Grand Rapids communities.”
A10 | ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT THEATER
CELEBRATING A LEGEND: Liam Purtle (from left) and Ariana Martineau perform in Shakespeare’s “Measure for Measure.” The play celebrated the 400th year since Shakespeare’s death and marked GVSU’s 23rd annual Shakespeare festival. COURTESY | AMANDA PITTS
Festival honors 400 years of Shakespeare 23rd annual Shakespeare Festival features ‘Measure for Measure’
BY CARMEN SMITH CSMITH@LANTHORN.COM
Originally published Monday, Sept. 19. Stories of sex, imprison-
ment and execution make their way to Grand Valley State University this fall to commemorate and celebrate Shakespeare and his life, intelligence and work
in the 23rd annual Shakespeare Festival. GVSU will host its biggest Shakespeare Festival yet this fall, as 2016 marks the 400th year since Shakespeare’s
death. Festivities are set to begin with the play “Measure for Measure” Friday, Sept. 30 at 7:30 p.m. in the Louis Armstrong Theatre in the Performing Arts Center on
DECEMBER 8, 2016 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLARTS
the Allendale Campus. The story is one of Shakespeare’s darker comedies about a society in a state of moral turmoil. Put together with a cast of student performers and professionals, it questions what is good behavior and proper morality, and challenges the abuse of powers with a storyline that is easy for audience members to relate to. “I feel like the audience can connect the themes of this play to current events today,” said Amber Miller, a GVSU senior playing the role of Isabella in “Measure for Measure.” “The abuse of power by those with authority, the juxtaposition of religion against society, these are just a few themes that I feel can still relate to people today.” When people think of Shakespeare, they often think of incomprehensible language and Renaissance dress. This show will much easier to understand with contemporary dress and settings, giving it a modern twist that reaches out to a younger audience. “I hope the audience recognizes the contemporaneity of the play’s issues,” said Roger Ellis, director of “Measure for Measure.” “We’re doing the show in modern dress to emphasize this. The role of outspoken women advocates of social justice, the need for more civic responsibility and resistance to public corruption, the role of religion in a church and state society, how should we temper justice with mercy—these are
all critical issues today, just as they were in Shakespeare’s time.” Along with “Measure for Measure,” there will be many different attractions for festival participants including: a traveling show of people in traditional Renaissance dress, a conference with well-known, feminist Shakespeare scholar, Phyllis Rackin, an open discussion with a panel to discuss moral dilemmas, student competitions for art, music and writing with a chance to win a cash prize and other opportunities for students to win prizes within the Shakespeare Festival. “The best part of the festival is that the productions and the events serve as a way to bring a wide range of people from many different places together and enjoy what this festival generates,” said James Bell, Shakespeare Festival director. “Measure for Measure” tickets are available to purchase for $14 for adults, $12 for GVSU faculty, staff and alumni, $12 for seniors and $6 for students at the Louis Armstrong Theatre in the Performing Arts Center on the Allendale Campus. “Festival-goers can expect to see a show,” said Michael Pollock, GVSU senior playing the role of Angelo in “Measure for Measure.” “If you see people in costumes reciting lines in an impressively organized fashion, you’ve probably stumbled upon the (traveling) show.”
DANCE
GV students partner with NYC dancers for performance Francesca Harper Project teams up with Lakers for Fall Arts Celebration BY KATE BRANUM ARTS@LANTHORN.COM
Originally published Monday, Oct. 17. The Grand Valley State University Fall Arts Celebration continues with a performance of Beethoven’s “Creatures of Prometheus” by the renowned New York City performing arts company, the Francesca Harper Project, in collaboration with student dancers and faculty members at GVSU. The performance will be held Monday, Oct. 24 at 7:30 p.m. in the Louis Armstrong Theatre in the Performing Arts Center, followed by a reception. A brief prelude carillon concert featuring university carillonneur Julianne Vanden Wyangaard will precede the dance from 7 p.m. to 7:20 p.m. Each year, members of the dance department at GVSU decide on a piece of music to perform to as part of the Fall Arts Celebration. After selecting Beethoven’s piece as this year’s
performance, faculty members began researching dance companies who have previously danced to “Creatures of Prometheus,” discovering the Francesca Harper Project. GVSU modern dance professor Carrie Morris reached out to the company in March of 2015 and asked to collaborate. Founded in 2005 by Francesca Harper, the nonprofit performing arts company is dedicated to creating original, inspiring dances, music and theater works. Harper’s direction and choreography acts as the artistic foundation for the company. Most importantly, the Francesca Harper Project embraces and celebrates the spirit of diversity and individuality. Francesca Harper puts a unique spin on the perspective of Beethoven’s original score, written in 1801. LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
PUT YOUR DANCING SHOES ON: Performers from the Francesca Harper Project company. The New York City performers teamed up with Grand Valley State University for its Fall Arts Celebration to work with student dancers and faculty at GVSU. COURTESY | LOIS GREENFIELD
VISUAL ART
The art of change
Smithsonian Institute features original artwork from GV professor BY KATE BRANUM ARTS@LANTHORN.COM
ON DISPLAY: GVSU professor Norwood Viviano’s “Global Cities” exhibit on display at the Renwick Gallery at the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, D.C. and features 15 art pieces. COURTESY | TIM THAYER
Originally published Monday, Oct. 24. An exhibition currently on display in the Renwick Gallery at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. features 15 original pieces of art created by Grand Valley State University art and design professor Norwood Viviano. “Visions and Revisions: Renwick Invitational 2016” recognizes Viviano along with three other distinguished and noteworthy artists: Jennifer Crask, Steven Young Lee and Kristen Morgan. “When the Renwick Gallery at the Smithsonian invites you to have an exhibition, that is a tremendous honor and that is a significant recognition of where you are as an artist in your career,” said Henry Matthews, GVSU director of galleries and collections. Along with nine bronze work pieces borrowed from the GVSU gallery’s permanent collection, the Smithsonian has reserved space for Viviano’s main project, “Global Cities,”
which was previously shown at the Grand Rapids Art Museum in November 2015. The exhibition opened Friday, Sept. 9. Spanning 22 feet, “Global Cities” featuring a multitude of curvy, blue hand-blown glass sculptures hanging on transparent strings above vinyl-cut map of the world on two, large wooden plinths. The project focuses on 29 cities around the globe demonstrating dramatic population trends and migration patterns over a period of time. The length of the glass sculptures represent time– when each city was founded, and the changing widths of the sculptures represent the population at the city over the years. All of the sculptures line up at the year 2014, which was when Viviano began creating the project. When choosing the cities he used for the exhibition, Viviano kept in mind each city’s economic connections and events that tied the cities together. Viviano began by researching one of the most important events in history that caused drastic population migrations– World War II. He also looked at the refugee
crisis in America, a more current and contemporary event. Before “Global Cities,” Viviano completed a project that looked at 24 cities in America, primarily focusing on the Midwest as well as a project that displayed specific cities in Michigan. He began researching population trends and attempted to understand relationships between cities on a regional level, which raised many questions Viviano was interested in exploring on a global level. “I don’t really see myself as a historian or a statistician, but I think the work has encouraged me to have this kind of dialogue and challenge me to have this kind of dialogue,” Viviano said. “I learn a lot from (the research) and I enjoy the conversations I have with people outside of the field (of art) and those (conversations) have really opened up the way my work continues to grow.” Viviano hopes “Global Cities” raises more questions than it answers when people first view it. LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
SPORTS | A11
DECEMBER 8, 2016 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLSPORTS
FOOTBALL
The end
GV upset by Ferris in NCAA Quarterfinal
BULLDOG REVENGE: Bart Williams (6) gets sacked during the game against Ferris State. The Lakers lost to FSU 47-32 at Lubbers Stadium Saturday, Dec. 3 after winning over FSU during the regular season. The loss against the Bulldogs during the NCAA Division II Quarterfinal game was the first loss during this year’s GVSU football season as well as the end of the Lakers’ championship run. GVL | LUKE HOLMES BY BEAU TROUTMAN SPORTS@LANTHORN.COM
Originally published Monday, Dec. 5. Grand Valley State’s mantra for 2016 was to go 1-0 each week. No matter the rankings, noise or expectations, every
Saturday came down to one team and one single game. For the first time this season, the Lakers were unable to go 1-0. The Ferris State Bulldogs (12-2) upset the Lakers (121) 47-32 in the NCAA Division II Quarterfinal at Lub-
bers Stadium in Allendale Saturday, Dec. 3. “I’m proud of our guys for battling,” said GVSU coach Matt Mitchell. “I told our seniors down there, in 2014 we went 6-5 and there was a lot of negativity. That crew has now led us to, in their junior and
senior year, 24-4, a couple deep playoff runs and obviously a GLIAC championship. “It’s a very disappointing time to see our seniors walk out that locker room, and a very disappointing game.” The Bulldogs got revenge after the Lakers defeated them
in the regular season. In last year’s playoffs, the No. 6 seeded Lakers upset then No. 1 seeded FSU in the second round. This time around, it was the Bulldogs who pulled out the upset. On GVSU’s first offensive possession, long snapper
Nate Cole snapped the ball over the head of punter Dan Madden. The ball went out of the back of the end zone for a two point safety. LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
DYNAMIC DUO
Thunder and lighting
BY BEAU TROUTMAN SPORTS@LANTHORN.COM
Originally published Thursday, Sept. 1. This spring, Grand Valley State coach Matt Mitchell described his running back duo of Martayveus Carter and Terrell Dorsey as “thunder and lightning.” They’re perfectly OK with that. “I kind of like that,” Carter said. “Because (Dorsey) do bring the boom, and I just be zoom, zoom, zoom. Thunder and lightning, that’s a pretty good way to break it.” Carter and Dorsey will lead a Laker run game that will be without former running back and last year’s leading rusher Kirk Spencer, who graduated with the second most allpurpose yards in GVSU history (5,352).
Carter, Dorsey duo to lead the Laker running game for the 2016-17 season
Carter, the “lightning” half of the duo, is slated as the starter this year after receiving significant playing time as the relief back to Spencer. Last season, Carter appeared in 14 games, had 889 rushing yards and seven touchdowns as a freshman. Though he admits going from a freshman backup to a full-fledged starter is a little nerve-wracking, Carter says he tries “not to get too bigheaded about it.” Although this is his first year going into the season as the starter, this isn’t the first time he’s been asked to be the No. 1 guy. In GVSU’s run to the national semi-finals last season, Spencer broke his leg at the beginning of the Super Region final win over Colorado State Pueblo. LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
TEAM LEADERS: Running back Terrell Dorsey (22) and Marty Carter (21) pose for a photo at the center of Lubbers Stadium during GVSU’s college football day. Grand Valley State football hosted its annual media day at Lubbers Stadium Thursday, Aug. 25. GVL | KEVIN SIELAFF
RIVALRY GAME
Back to the kennel GV takes down Ferris State Bulldogs 35-23 BY BEAU TROUTMAN SPORTS@LANTHORN.COM
SHOWTIME: David Talley (7) and company prepare to storm the field as the pre-game show winds down. The Grand Valley State Lakers defeated Ferris State 35-23 Saturday, Oct. 8. GVL | KEVIN SIELAFF
Originally published Monday, Oct. 10. Grand Valley State’s most efficient passer through three quarters of their game versus Ferris State wasn’t even a quarterback. Running back Martayveus Carter held that honor thanks to a 32-yard trick play touchdown pass in the first quarter. However, leading only 28-23 in the fourth, quarterback Bart Williams lofted a beautifully placed ball into the hands of the receiver Nick Dodson for a 39-yard
touchdown pass. Statistics and efficiency aside, Williams regained the title of top passer. The late touchdown put the game on ice, giving the No. 2 ranked Lakers (6-0) a 35-23 win over the No. 14 ranked Bulldogs (4-2) in front of an all-time record high Lubbers Stadium crowd (16,889) Saturday, Oct. 8. “We just kept fighting, scratching and clawing, just like last week, we needed every single play we could get out there,” said GVSU coach Matt Mitchell. The Lakers earned bragging rights as the 2016 Anchor-Bone Classic cham-
pion, and snapped a four game regular season losing streak to the Bulldogs. The win keeps the Lakers at first place in the GLIAC North, and drops FSU from second to a third place tie with Saginaw Valley State. Bart Williams was 9-of17 for 109 yards, had two interceptions and was sacked four times through the first three quarters, but was 5-of-7 for 91 yards and had the game-sealing touchdown to Nick Dodson in the fourth. LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
DECEMBER 8, 2016 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLSPORTS
A12 | SPORTS SOCCER
Legends
Laker senior class gears up for final playoff run BY JOSH PEICK JPEICK@LANTHORN.COM
Originally published Thursday, November 10. When a collegiate program brings in a recruiting class, the hope is that one or two of the newcomers can contribute their freshman year, and that the rest will be in the lineup by the time they are upperclassmen. This holds true for most classes, but not the Grand Valley State women’s soccer team class of 2016. In the 2013 national championship run, the 2016 class played a vital role in the success of the team. “It was a group that we knew were very competitive both on the field and in the classroom,” said David DiIanni, the former GVSU coach from 2003-14. “Even when we were recruiting them and they had made the commitment to the program, we knew that they could potentially do something very special.” Now, three years later, the 2016 class has the opportunity to accomplish something that
has only happened once in the history of NCAA Division II women’s soccer, and that is win four national championships in four years. The only other class to do it was the 1997 class at Franklin Pierce. Over the past four seasons, this group has accumulated a trophy-case full of awards. The six seniors have a combined 10 All-GLIAC Team, six AllMidwest Team and four AllAmerican Team honors. Heading into their collegiate careers, the six freshmen were already familiar with one another before the first day of practice. Marti Corby and Clare Carlson played together at Forest Hills Central High School, and Gabbie Guibord and Alexis Mencotti have played together since they first strapped on shin guards in peewee soccer. The other two, Kendra Stauffer and Erika Bradfield, either played with or against the other four through club or high school soccer. That familiarity between the six freshmen made it easy to mesh on the field as
CHAMPIONSHIP RUN: Seniors from the women’s soccer team pose for a photo inside of Fieldhouse Arena Tuesday, Nov. 8. Over the past four seasons, this GVSU team has accumulated a trophy case full of awards, including four All-American honors. GVL | MACKENZIE BUSH
well as off the field. “Our chemistry off the field is what gave us the chemistry on the field the following years,” Carlson said. “Right away we all became best friends,” Stauffer said. “With some setbacks here and there,” Carlson said, jokingly. The chemistry on and off the field translated into success for each of the freshmen and the GVSU soccer program. Before their arrival, the Lakers were perennial national championship contenders in the previous years with a surplus of talent on the roster, but even
with the highly talented team, the freshmen fought their way into the lineup. “At the time we were a very upperclassmen-laden team,” DiIanni said. “We had success for the last three and four years prior, and that speaks even more volumes to this class that they almost refused to not be on the field, but on same token, they didn’t do it brashly. They were completely bought into the team aspect.” When the 2016 class entered the program, the Lakers said goodbye to a class that was much like the incoming freshmen. The class of 2012 included players such
as Ashley Botts, Kayla Addison and Alyssa Mira, each of which made an immediate impact as a freshman. “You just hear about those legends, and it’s like how can you even compare or compete with that,” Mencotti said. “You are constantly striving to be like all of those legends,” Carlson said “We have always had someone or some class to look up to,” Guibord said. “(And we) still do,” Carlson said. “We still look up to all of those legends and alumni and their coaches.” After their freshmen year, the GVSU program
saw a coaching change with DiIanni taking a job as the head coach of the Iowa women’s soccer team. The new coach, Jeff Hosler, quickly became acclimated with the girls and continued the success of the program. “Everything happened in such short order,” Hosler said. “I was hired the first July with just under six weeks to get ready and get to know the players. (DiIanni) and the girls had things rolling, so I think I’d be a fool to come in and try to make dramatic changes.” LOG ON TO:
the goal. Gabriella Mencotti chipped a ball over a Viking defender and as the goalie came out to play the ball, Martin danced around her, gathered the ball and scored. “I thought we responded well when they scored,” GVSU defender Clare Carlson said. “We just weren’t disciplined defensively right away, and it led to good goal-scoring opportunities for them that they capitalized on.” Less than four minutes after Martin’s goal, Jobanek scored again for the Vikings in similar fashion to her first goal. After a throw-in from the right side, Jobanek turned toward the middle of the field and fired a shot from 25 yards out that found the top-left again. Western Washington took a one-goal lead into the second half. It was the first time the Lakers trailed at halftime this season. After a scoreless 25 minutes, Carlson scored the second equalizer of the game. Forward Kendra Stauffer passed the ball to a trailing Carlson who fired a one-time shot just outside the box. The ball sailed over the goalie and into the pylon. For the second time, the Vikings answered back with a quick goal. This time, mid-
fielder Emily Webster fired a free kick from 30 yards out off of the crossbar and into the back of the net. “Every time a very good Grand Valley team got back into the game, we had an answer,” said Western Washington coach Travis Connell. “They were fantastic goals, and probably that’s what it takes to beat a team like this.” The goal marked the first time that the Lakers have given up three goals in a match this season. “Conceding three goals, you are not going to win very many games,” Hosler said. “We felt that they had good ball-strikers, and we had to close those spaces.” For the last 15 minutes the GVSU offense pushed, but the Lakers were unable to score a third equalizer. When the clock struck zero, the Vikings held a one-goal lead, and for the first time in four years, GVSU did not finish a season with a win. “Right now, it’s sadness and devastation, but you have to look at the big picture,” Corby said. “For our class, one game does not define our career.”
www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
Short of history GV soccer falls short of fourth straight national championship with a 3-2 loss
END OF THE LINE: Clare Carlson and Shannon Quinn hug after losing the women’s soccer NCAA championship game Saturday, Dec. 3 against Western Washington in Kansas City, Missouri. GVL | EMILY FRYE
BY JOSH PEICK JPEICK@LANTHORN.COM
Originally published Monday, December 5. For the first time in four years, the Grand Valley State women’s soccer team did not emerge as national champions after the last game of the season. The Lakers fell one game, one goal short in a 3-2 loss to the Western Washington Vikings in the NCAA Division II National Championship Saturday, Dec. 3 at Swope Soccer Village in Kansas City, Missouri. Throughout the match, the Vikings pressured the Lakers harder than any team has this season. The Vikings controlled possession and out-shot the Lakers 16 to eight in the contest. “(Western Washington’s) ability to high-press got us out of our rhythm,” said GVSU coach Jeff Hosler. “Frankly, they did a much better job building from the back than we did.” Western Washington struck first in the 18th minute with a goal from the left foot of Caitlyn Jobanek. Jobanek scored from 20 yards out into the topleft portion of the goal. Later in the half, forward Jayma Martin scored the equalizer for GVSU on a shot from a tough angle left of
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FRIDAY NIGHT FÚTBOL
Home field advantage BY JOSH PEICK JPEICK@LANTHORN.COM
Originally published Monday, October 3. On Friday, Sept. 30, Lubbers Stadium was packed with loyal Lakers’ fans, but not for the football team. The Grand Valley State women’ soccer team faced off against Tiffin at Lubbers
Stadium for Friday Night Fútbol. The Lakers (9-0-1) trounced Tiffin 10-0 in the first women’s soccer game at Lubbers Stadium. Following Friday’s win, GVSU completed another shutout in a 5-0 win over Ashland. In Friday’s game, the Lakers attempted to break the single-game attendance record in NCAA Division
II women’s soccer history. The attendance at the game was 2,893, short of the record set at 3,227. While they didn’t break the national record, the Lakers broke the record for most attendance in school history by over 2,000 fans, and also set a GLIAC record. “On a rainy Friday night, to have that many people to
Laker soccer hosts first game at Lubbers Stadium, falls shy of DII attendance record
come out and support our program and support our kids is pretty special,” said GVSU coach Jeff Hosler. GVSU put on a show for the fans, scoring a total of 10 goals, seven of them in the second half. For the first 15 minutes of the game, the Tiffin goalie made three diving saves to keep the Lakers off the board. Jayma Martin finally
UNDER THE LIGHTS: Grand Valley State’s Kendra Stauffer (5) jukes her way down the field and through Tiffin’s defense. The Lakers squared off against the Tiffin Dragons Friday, Sept. 30 and came away with a win with a final score of 10-0 at Lubbers Stadium. GVL | KEVIN SIELAFF
sneaked one past the goalie, and the crowd went wild. Vuvuzelas, which were handed out before the game, were blaring, and the stadium was loud for the rest of the half. “It was super cool,” Mencotti said. “Everyone was cheering, the horns were going, and it was a really cool atmosphere to play in.” Mencotti made the most of her opportunity playing in front of the large Lubbers crowd. She netted four goals on the night. “It helped that Jayma (Martin) and Kenny (Stauffer) were brilliant on the wings in the first half, stretching (Tiffin) out,” Hosler said. “When they are doing that, it frees up more space for Gabby Mencotti to get in.” Mencotti was not done scoring after the Tiffin game. After a slow start for GVSU in Sunday’s match against Ashland, Mencotti opened up the scoring on a tap-in shot after cleaning up on her own rebound. “Ashland put us under pressure early, and we didn’t respond well to it,” Hosler said. “Our saving grace today was how effective our subs were off the bench in the first half.”
With less than two minutes left in the first half, substitute Lindsay Ebeling scored to give the Lakers a 2-0 lead heading into halftime. “The bench came in and really brought up the energy for us,” Stauffer said. The Lakers piled on the goals in the second half, two coming from Stauffer and another from Mencotti. Mencotti now has 12 goals on the year, a team and GLIAC high. She also leads the conference in points (31) and shots (64). While the offense produced a high output of goals, the defense continued to dominate, extending the team’s shutout streak to six games. “They are reading the game really well,” Hosler said. “What has become our starting back four are all highly intelligent kids. They are not just good athletes with ability on the ball, but they read the game really well. They understand how to defend as a group.” The Lakers’ defense will have to keep up the intensity in the team’s next game in a ranked matchup with No. 14 ranked Florida Tech. The Lakers will host the Ohio Dominican Panthers Wednesday, Oct. 5 at 7 p.m.
DECEMBER 8, 2016 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLSPORTS
SPORTS | A13
Judon’s journey
NFL
Former GV standout Matt Judon has early success with Baltimore Ravens BY BEAU TROUTMAN SPORTS@LANTHORN.COM
DREAM COME TRUE: Matt Judon talks with a Baltimore Ravens coach at practice Thursday, Nov. 3. Judon has enjoyed success in the NFL as a pass rusher for the Ravens this season. GVL | KEVIN SIELAFF
Originally published Monday, Nov. 21. B A LT I M O R E — M a t t Judon remembers the undersized kid from West Bloomfield High School. Where he’s been since then and what he’s done to get where he is now is not lost on him. Judon, standing among future hall of famers, perennial all-stars and up-and-comers just like himself, smiles at the thought of that wiry Michigan kid trying to find his way on the football field. He never could have dreamed where that kid would end up. “You know, you really can’t envision this,” Judon said. “You have what you think it’s going to be, but it’s nothing like that. It’s a lot of work that you don’t see. You expect it, but you don’t know how hard it’s going to be. “It’s everything and more that I dreamed about.” The former two-star recruit and Grand Valley State football’s career leader in sacks (34) is making a name
for himself in the NFL with the Baltimore Ravens. He was taken in the fifth round in the 2016 NFL Draft this past May, and is quickly becoming a consistent player the Ravens can depend on. He was the 2016 Division II Player of the Year, the 2016 Gene Upshaw award winner, which honors the top lineman in DII, and led the NCAA—regardless of division—with 21 sacks in his senior season. Judon, who made a name for himself chasing Division II quarterbacks, has three sacks with the Ravens so far and has seen time in every game this season. “I saw a young guy who played well, played hard,” said Ravens coach John Harbaugh of Judon after the team’s opening win over the Buffalo Bills Sunday, Sept. 11. “The first 10, 12 plays he was feeling his way a little bit. He didn’t want to make a mistake, I think, and didn’t. Once he got his sea legs, he seemed like he really amped it up and did make some plays and played hard toward the
end. That was good to see. He did a nice job.” The Ravens are 5-5 this season and are in first place in the AFC North, ahead of the Pittsburgh Steelers (55), the Cincinnati Bengals (3-6) and the Cleveland Browns (0-11). Judon has made several plays this season, playing as a defensive end-linebacker hybrid. He does not start, but is used often in the Ravens’ pass-rushing rotation. His breakout game came during a loss to the New York Jets Sunday, Oct. 23. Midway through the second quarter, Jets quarterback Geno Smith rolled left after being forced out of the pocket. Judon chased Smith down, jumped over his own teammate and brought Smith down for the first sack of his NFL career. Smith tore his ACL on the play, and backup quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick came into the game. Later in the fourth quarter, Judon found a wide open lane to Fitzpatrick and recorded his second sack of the day. LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
OLYMPICS
Chasing a dream
Former Laker Kristen Hixson misses 2016 Rio Olympics, looks ahead to future BY JACOB ARVIDSON JARVIDSON@LANTHORN.COM
Originally published Monday, Aug. 22. Grand Valley State track and field alumna Kristen Hixson will continue her pole vaulting career after coming up just short at the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team Trials in Eugene, Oregon July 10. “I just enjoy it,” she said. “I have fun doing it. A lot of people try to find a passion in their life and some people don’t ever. I feel really blessed to have a passion like this and to be able to pursue it. I always tell myself the day I’m not having fun anymore, the day that it is not a passion of mine, is the day that I want to be done. Until that day, I’m going to keep going.” The 24-year-old finished ninth at the trials with a height of 4.50 meters, but there wasn’t even a brief moment when she considered retirement from the sport she has dedicated herself to. “As soon as I was done and feeling all those emotions, it was, (OK), what’s next?” she said. “That’s how I knew everything was going to be okay, and
the next four years are going to be a great journey, even better than these last couple were.” Hixson cleared the 4.35-meter bar in the qualifying round of the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team Trials July 8. That one vault was all she needed to advance to the event final July 10. “I was really relieved,” she said. “I think the most stressful part of the whole experience was actually qualifying for the finals and once I did, pretty much all of the nerves were gone at that point and there was a lot of stress off my shoulders.” Two days later, on July 10, Hixson again returned to the pole vault runway to contest for a spot on the U.S. Olympic team against the 13 other women who had qualified for the final. She cleared on her first attempt at 4.40 meters, and on her second attempt at 4.50 meters, but couldn’t find her way over the bar at 4.60 meters, leaving her in ninth place. The top three finishers—Jenn Suhr, Sandi Morris and Lexi Weeks—all qualified for the Rio Games, where Morris won the silver medal. Hixson wasn’t pleased with
coming up short. “I was disappointed in myself,” she said. “Solely on the fact that it wasn’t my best day, unfortunately. That was the point of these past couple years, for that one day. It’s heartbreaking and very disappointing. It’s hard not to be really hard on yourself after that.” Even a few weeks later, Hixson still feels the weight of not making the Olympic team, but she has begun to see a silver lining. “I’m my hardest critic most of the time,” she said. “I’m still obviously really disappointed and I don’t think that’s really ever going to go away. It’s just this really heavy feeling and I don’t see it going away, but looking forward, having that experience under my belt for the next four years is something I can take away from it. If anything, it has lit a fire and I’m excited for the next four years.” Hixson’s former GVSU teammate, Jaime Roberts, has high hopes for Hixson. “She’s jumping high heights because she works her butt off,” Roberts said. “She puts in all that effort and she deserves every little bit of success.”
CFL
A long way from Allendale GV linemen Revenberg, Bourke enjoy success in CFL
Feeling Chilly?
SO CLOSE: Kristen Hixson competes in the pole vault at a meet May 22, 2014. Hixson just missed a chance to compete at the 2016 Rio Olympics after coming up short at the Olympic Trials. GVL | ARCHIVE
BY BEAU TROUTMAN SPORTS@LANTHORN.COM
Originally published Monday, Aug. 22. HAMILTON, Canada -On the way to the stadium, the minute differences become more apparent. Tim Hortons coffee shops are littered throughout the city the way Starbucks is in the United States. The speed limit is 50
kilometers per hour. A tradition of the locals living in the shadow of the stadium, fans’ cars are parked in the yards of the surrounding houses, the most popular method of game-day parking. The city is adorned in black and gold team colors, but this is not Pittsburgh. Welcome to Hamilton, Ontario. While NFL teams are still working out the kinks and
evaluating players during the preseason in August, the Canadian Football League is already in full swing by this time. Entering their game against Saskatchewan (1-6), the Hamilton Tiger-Cats (stylized ‘TiCats’) were 3-4 on the year and looking to regain their footing. LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
In order to reduce the heating cost, close and lock your windows. This will keep the heat in and the cold air out.
facility services Energy Department OH, CANADA: Former GVSU lineman Brandon Revenberg greets fans after the Hamilton Tiger-Cats win Saturday, Aug. 20. Revenberg was taken third overall in the CFL draft last spring. GVL | KEVIN SIELAFF
DECEMBER 8, 2016 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLSPORTS
A14 | SPORTS
Champions!
CROSS COUNTRY
GV women win 2016 NCAA National Championship, men finish runners-up BY DANNY SCHWARTZ DSCHWARTZ@LANTHORN.COM
WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS: Grand Valley State women’s cross country team members pose for photos after winning their fourth national title in five years in St. Leo, Florida Saturday, Nov. 19. Kendra Foley won her second individual title. COURTESY | GVSU SPORTS INFORMATION
CROSSFIT
Originally published Monday, Nov. 21. Last year, the Grand Valley State women’s cross country team fell just short of their fourth straight national title after placing second at the NCAA National Championship. Also last year, GVSU senior and star runner Kendra Foley fell short of an individual national championship when she came in 2nd place by 0.3 seconds. This year, both shortcomings were avenged.
The GVSU women’s cross country team brought home their fourth national title in five years this past Saturday, Nov. 19 at the NCAA Division II National Championships in St. Leo, Florida. Star runner Kendra Foley won her second individual national title, the first coming in 2014. The GVSU men finished in second place, with Adams State bringing home the first place gold. LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
OLYMPIC TRIALS
Top 10 BY JACOB ARVIDSON JARVIDSON@LANTHORN.COM
GUN SHOW: AJ Davis competes at the 2016 CrossFit Regionals. Davis is a member of the Grand Valley State strength club, and is very experienced in CrossFit training. COURTESY | GVSU STRENGTH CLUB
Originally published Monday, July 11. Tenth-best hammerthrower in the United States of America. That’s the title former Grand Valley State track and field standout Darien Thornton can now add to his resume after placing tenth out of a 24-man field at the 2016 U.S.
Laker alumnus Thornton nearly qualifies for finals at Olympic trials Olympic Team Trials on July 6. Thornton’s toss of 68.49 meters (224 feet, 8 inches) put him fifth on the leaderboard after the first round. “It was a solid first throw,� he said. “It was probably a lifetime top-10 throw for me.� But the reigning NCAA Division II national champion couldn’t surpass his mark on the next two throws. Thornton would finish less than 2 feet short of a berth
in the event finals, for which only the top nine qualified. The finals would have given him three more chances to extend his distance. “I feel like on a good day I’d be right there in the mix,� he said. “I felt like I was on the same level as those guys, but it just wasn’t there for me this time. LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
Mission accomplished GV strength club member AJ Davis among top finishers at 2016 CrossFit Regionals BY BRENDAN MCMAHON BMCMAHON@LANTHORN.COM
Originally published Monday, July 11. Anthony “AJ� Davis’ journey through CrossFit has taken him far from his home in Plainwell, Michigan. What was once noth-
ing more than a hobby, CrossFit has become the staple in this Grand Valley State senior’s life. Davis was a three-sport varsity athlete in high school. He participated in basketball, golf, and was named a football team captain. Davis found his days of
competition potentially over after his high school graduation. In the summer of 2013, Davis came across the CrossFit Games on TV. LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE
JUST SHORT: Darien Thornton participates at a meet last season. Thornton, participating in the hammer throw event, finished just short of a berth to the 2016 Olympic Trials finals. GVL | KEVIN SIELAFF
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I'm looking for someone to take over my lease for a room in Evolve. The lease goes until the end of July, and is $600 a month. All utilities except electric are included, which is about $30 a month. It is fully furnished with a full sized bed, and has high end appliances, including a dishwasher, washer and dryer. My roommates are two girls that are super nice and easy to get along with! Contact me at 231-342-5072 if interested!
Leasing a Leonard Street Apartment. Two bedroom, renovations just completed. Next to Shakedown Street and just down the street from the news Breweries and Distilleries. Great neighborhood and very convenient for going to GVSU. Contact patrick@mohneyrealtor.com if you're interested.
Seeking subleaser for fully furnished 4-bedroom, 4.5 bath town home at Copper Beech. Access to free parking, gym. Rent $410/month+ $12 water+ electricity. Contact wittebor@mail.gvsu.edu for more details.
During the months of October - May, Aerials Gym holds a weekly college night on Saturdays from 10pm midnight. Stop by and take a break from studying and enjoy a fun workout to keep you motivated and energized for those important exams ahead!
Students: Get outta town with Indian Trails! Rent your own Charter Bus or simply get a ticket for one on one of the many bus routes throughout Michigan that Indian Trails offers! Visit www.indiantrails.com for more information or to purchase your ticket today!
Housing The Barbara H. Padnos International Scholars program provides scholarships for year long study abroad programs. Students are expected to engage in serious study for an extended period of time (minimum 9 months) in an approved study abroad program. Preference for the largest award will be given to qualified applicants who plan to be abroad longer than 10 months.
ANSWERS
TO PUZZLES
Looking for a subleaser for my Copper Beech lease from winter till the end of the lease in the summer. I have a 4 bedroom, 4 1/2 bathroom townhome. Rent is 437 a month without utilities (electric) and includes water. I currently live with two guys and a girl. My apartment is across from the basketball court, close to guest parking. Looking for someone ASAP! Please email me at jimenezd@mail.gvsu.edu
IĘźm looking for someone to take over my lease in a Campus West two person apartment starting Winter semester with a move-in before Christmas break if possible. Rent is about $550 plus utilities and roommate is a super chill girl who has furnished much of the apartment already. Please let me know if youĘźre interested. Feel free to message me or email me at haverdan@mail.gvsu.edu Looking for a sub-leaser for the 2017/2018 school year at Enclave. Rent is $558 a month for everything including electric, it is a 4 bed/4.5 bath townhouse! It is a 12 month lease, but I am willing to pay for the summer months if needed. Please contact me at resnickg@mail.gvsu.edu if interested!
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Looking for a female subleaser for Winter 2017 semester in a 4 bedroom Style E in Meadows Crossing. Rent is $469/month and I will pay the first month. The apartment is shared with 3 other female roommates. Lease goes until July 2017. Email godlewj@mail.gvsu.edu for more information!
Services For over 25 years of service BrianĘźs Books has GUARANTEED lower GVSU textbook prices than our on-campus competition. DARE TO COMPARE! We offer delayed billing for GVSU financial aid students! We have MORE GVSU textbooks than ever, awesome GVSU clothing selection and all the supplies that you will need. Why not check us out this semester??
ST U D E N T- R U N P U B L I C A T I O N S // T H U R S D A Y, D E C E M B E R 8 // VO L . 5 1 N O. 3 0
GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN
A L L E N D A L E & G R A N D R A P I DS , M I C H I G A N
Grand Valley State University Commencement Fall 2016
DECEMBER 8, 2016 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLANTHORN
B2 | COMMENCEMENT
WESTON CONRADO
JORDAN PRETTO
Weston,
Jordan,
YOU DID IT, BUDDY!!!! We are so proud of the man you have become, you pushed through and you made it! We are blessed to have such an amazing compassionate son, what a blessing from God. We love you, Wes!!! We can’t wait to see what is next.
Congratulations on your graduation and your acceptance to Grand Valley’s PA program! You have been moo-vin’ right along since the day you were born! You are udderly amazing and will be outstanding in your field!
CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!! Love, Mom & Dad
We love you and are so proud of you.
Always remember to put God first!
Mom, Dad, Nick and your entire herd!
AUDRA GAMBLE
ALEXIS JANKOWSKI Lexie -
Audra Wynne -
We are so proud to have a daughter like you! You have made our life an unimaginable joy. You are an excellent example of what can be accomplished with determination and drive and we know you will achieve whatever you seek in life. We love you so much!
As you move forward in life, remember to keep holding on to your sister. Congratulations, Dad, Momma,& Roxana
Love, Mom and Dad
ELIZABETH ZAJAC
DELANEY GAIL FAUGHT
I am so proud Elizabeth accomplished a life goal of gaining a master’s degree. The skills learned have not only served to strengthen her spectacular abilities working with children, but also have made her an even better role model for those closest to her. You certainly continue to be one of the best.
From the day you were born we knew you were special. Step by step, accomplishment by accomplishment, you have brought yourself to this glorious day. For all that you have always been, for all that you are, and for all that you will become... we are beyond proud of you, Delaney.
With great admiration and love, Brandon
You can do anything! With love and pride, without measure - Mama, Daddy, & Conor.
DECEMBER 8, 2016 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLANTHORN
COMMENCEMENT | B3
RYLEE HANSON
JENNIFER WIEGAND
Congratulations, Rylee!
Dear Jenn,
We are so proud of you!
Congratulations on achieving your RN bachelor’s degree! You have made us all proud! Good luck at the Mayo Clinic!
Love, Mom, Dad and Casey
We love you, Dad, Liz and cat
JENNIFER LEE
ALLISON GANSHIRT
Congratulations, Jenn!
Allison - Congratulations!
Your enthusiasm shines in all you do. May it continue to guide you throughout your journey in dental school.
You did it! We are so proud of you! Looking back, it was all worth it! Love you, Mom, Kurt, Andrea and Monica
Love, Dad, Mom, Lauren and Mackinaw
BREANNA PETSCHKE
MINDY LYNN CRAWFORD
Congratulations, Breanna!
Words can’t describe how proud we are of you. With all your hard work and dedication, you will have a successful future, and we hope all your dreams come true.
We are very proud of you and your accomplishments! You are amazing and wonderful! Love, Mom, Dad and Ally
Love, Dad and Mom
ALEXANDER WEITZEL
BLAIR FOLINO
Alex,
Blair,
You have always come up with the most amazing things to do in life, and we can’t wait to see what is next!
Always remember you are BRAVER than you believe, STRONGER than you seem, SMARTER than you think and LOVED more than you know.
We love you dearly, Mom and Dad, Matthew, Molly, Anne Marie and the whole rest of the crew
CONGRATULATIONS! NOW GO GET ‘EM! Love, Mom and Dad
KRISTEN HOLLINGSWORTH
ASHLEY EVELHOCH
Congratulations, Kristen!
Congratulations, Ashley!
We are so proud of you and the woman you have become. You have worked very hard, and today we celebrate your accomplishments. Best Wishes.
We are so proud of the hard work you put into graduating. We know you are going to make an amazing music teacher!
Love, your family
Love, Chris and family
ANDREW FISHER
HOPE CRONKRIGHT
Congratulations, Andrew!
Your entire family is so proud of you on this special day. We love you and lift you up as we celebrate this most important milestone in your life.
We are so proud of you. Always follow your dreams. And dream big! Dream the impossible! Anything can happen with hard work and determination. Love, Mom and Dad
CONGRATULATIONS, HOPE!
DECEMBER 8, 2016 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLANTHORN
B4 | COMMENCEMENT
SHELBY TILMANN
KEANE CAIRNS
Shelby we are so very proud of you and all that you have accomplished!
Congrats Keane, We are so very proud of you! May you always follow Gods heart and plans for your life!
Love you to the moon and back forever and always!! Mom and Dad
We will love you forever, Mom and Dad
CODY MOORE
EMILY SIMONELLI
Congratulations Cody, you did it! We are so proud of you, son! You worked hard for this. Enjoy! Continue the journey…
My Emily... You are strong, hard working, & faith-filled. These qualities are what led you to this day. Congratulations! I’m beyond proud... you are now...A Laker for Life. Love you, Mom
CHARITY ANNETTE WADE Congratulations, Charity! We are proud of you and your accomplishments. You perservered; your dedication and hard work paid off. (Jeremiah 29:11) Love, Mom, Dad and DJ
Congratulations, Lanthorn grads!
AUDRA GAMBLE
Editor-in-chief: August 2013-December 2016 Dear Audra (Mom, Audi, Roger), You made it! From arts & entertainment writer, to laker life, news and digital editor and finally editor-in-chief, your talent and leadership has made its mark on the Lanthorn. Even though you took your office decorations with you, we appreciate all the late nights, stressful mornings and hard work you have dedicated to the Lanthorn.
We look forward to keeping up with all that you do after graduation! We hope that the world is ready for your political commentary, love of fountain pens and strong feelings about nocturnal animals. Your Lanthorn family will miss you, but we’re so excited to see what you do after graduation. Good luck!
MASON TRONSOR
JORDAN SCHULTE
Mason,
Dear Jordan,
A true Lanthorn veteran--women’s soccer, women’s tennis, rowing, club sports and much more. You’ve been there, done that, and now it’s time for you to move on from the fields of desolate Allendale to bigger and better things.
Congrats on your graduation! We want to thank you for all your hard work with the Lanthorn from your great and creative work with podcasts to the fact that you were always down to lend a helping hand, you were a valuable source for the Lanthorn team!
Sports writer: May 2015-December 2016
Thank you for your service. You survived the gauntlet of two articles a week, class and work all smashed into week after week after week. You made sports your game and reliability your name. Many writers have had their name in the byline at the Lanthorn, and yours is another in the list of battle-hardened vets who covered anything from a regatta to a Formula SAE racing story. There isn’t much you haven’t seen. This job took you to Pensacola, Florida, and other various locations. We hope it has given you the experience needed for the road ahead. Most of all, we wish you all the best on your ascent to the big world of sports journalism. Thanks again and congratulations on graduating!
Digital editor: May 2015-December 2016
We wish you all the best in your post-grad adventures and we can’t wait to see where you end up!