The Optimist Print Edition 10.12.18 (Volume CVIII, Issue VIII) by ACU Optimist

OPTIMIST

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PARADE After pledges worked tirelessly through the night, they will march with their floats down EN 16 Street.

A student publication of Abilene Christian University since 1912

Volume CVIII, Issue VIII

Friday October 12, 2018

S S M

T W R

News

Feature

Sports

Nil Santana, associate director of the Maker Lab, has worked to unify campus through creativity......Page 4 Allen Ward, the new athletic director, brings new goals for Wildcats, and talks about his history.............Page 11

Wildcat football takes on Nicholls State Saturday at 2:30 p.m. and soccer plays Lamar on Sunday at 1 p.m. Jeremiah Chambers, junior linebacker, broke through as a leader on the defense so far this season......Page 12

Homecoming brings a variety of annual events including the KGR benefit dinner, Guterberg and a new era of tailgating. A graduate student donates bone marrow to an infant.................................Page 5,9

Pledging numbers decline 10 from 2017 LAUREN FRANCO EDITOR IN CHIEF

The number of students pledging social clubs is down slightly from last year’s 421 pledges – 142 men and 279 women, with only 411 total this year – 120 men and 291 women. Pledging numbers for each club are: • Alpha Kai Omega: 18 (four more than in 2017) • Delta Theta: 28 (one fewer than in 2017) • GATA: 59 (same as in 2017) • Ko Jo Kai: 65 (two more than in 2017) • Sigma Theta Chi: 64 (four fewer than in 2017) • Tri Kappa Gamma: 56 (16 more than in 2017) • Zeta Rho: 1 (four fewer than in 2017) • Frater Sodalis: 34 (one fewer than in 2017) • Galaxy: 32 (four fewer than in 2017) • Gamma Sigma Phi: 44 (five more than in 2017) • Nu Kappa Psi: 4 (four more than in 2017) • Pi Kappa: 7 (seven more than in 2017) • Sub T-16: 22 (one fewer than in 2017) • Trojans: 11 (seven more than in 2017) Social clubs started their pledging processes last weekend with Bid Night on Friday and a tailgate on Saturday, and the process will end at various times throughout next week. Ko Jo Kai took the most pledges of the women’s clubs at 65 of 291 (22 percent), two more than last year. Sarah Brooks, president of Ko Jo Kai, said the number of pledges fluctuates every year depending on the number of girls participating in the rushing process. Despite being one of the largest clubs on campus, Brooks said community isn’t about numbers. “Building community is not based numbers but rather on how well we choose to love and support one another despite how different we all are,” said Brooks, senior kinesiology major from Lubbock. “I think no matter the pledge class size, one of the main goals of pledging is to participate in activities and traditions that create unity with your sisters. It is so cool that we can create bonds and memories with girls we probably would have never met if it wasn’t for pledging.” Of the men’s clubs, Gamma Sigma Phi, who is celebrating its 50th anniversary, took the most pledges at 44 of 120 (36 percent), five more than last year. Pledges will participate in the Homecoming Parade and hold letters during the football game on Saturday, and pledging ends next week before fall break.

Photos by NICHOLAS CROMWELL | CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER From left to right: Flames shout, “G-A-T-A, want to be a GATA!” at the GATA fountain. NuNus yell, “I will respect Kojie Park!” on the Ko Jo Kai benches. Carps prance around the GATA fountain with coconut shells. Squigs yell “I have squig pride, meow!” at the cat statue. CAMPUS NEWS

Board of Trustees welcomes two new members ALLAYNA FORD MANAGING EDITOR

Two new members were added to the Board of Trustees this year: Dr. Arthur Culpepper and Mitch Wilburn. Culpepper is an ACU alumnus who lives in New Mexico and is the Chief HSC Compliance Officer at the University of New Mexico. He played football at ACU, graduating with the class of 1986. He said that even though members know him as a football player, they will now see a new side of him. “What’s been really neat is how we are getting acquainted again but then they are getting a different insight into me,” Culpep-

Culpepper

Wilburn

per said. “But, there are still cracks about when I played football.” Wilburn lives in Oklahoma and is a preaching minister at Park Plaza Church of Christ in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He graduated in 1990, and said while he was a student, he never envisioned himself becoming a member of the board. “I am just super honored to be a part of the board,” Wilburn said. “I always looked up to those people, I

was very humbled when this opportunity came my way.” As a new member, Culpepper said he went in with an attitude to listen to and learn from the existing members, throwing in his ideas when possible. “It’s kind of like the first day of school,” Culpepper said. “One of the things you don’t want to do is to appear to aggressive, and act like you know everything, but on the contrary, I’m not a bashful person.” As a minister, Wilburn brings a unique perspective to the board and can offer additional support in the form of ministry. “If I can ever help out with relations between the local church and ACU I would be happy and hon-

“

What’s been really neat is how we are getting acquainted again but then they are getting a different insight into me. But, there are still cracks about when I played football.” ARTHUR CULPEPPER BOARD MEMBER

ored to fill that role as well,” Wilburn said. Wilburn also said that as a minister, he can offer spiritual support, but all members of the board bring a high level of faith into their work, keeping God at the heart of the decisions they make for the university. “As you look around the board, people who

make their living in secular vocations, I’m blown away by the spirituality levels.,” said Wilburn. “Everyone I’ve encountered has deep walks with the Lord.” Culpepper said that as a board member, he wants to make sure that students have the necessary cutting-edge tools they need to have a successful career once they graduate. “One of the things I have been emphasizing with my participation with the board is, yes maintaining the financial goals of the institution,” Culpepper said. “But, also there is nothing more important than being able to transition every single student that graduates from ACU into the life they want.”

Clery report shows decrease in burglary, drug violations LAUREN FRANCO EDITOR IN CHIEF

The university recorded more drug law violations and fewer liquor law violations in 2017 than a year earlier, according to annual crime statistics released by the ACU Police Department. The annual report was in released in compliance with the federal Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Crime Statistics Act, which is named for a college student murdered in her dorm room at Lehigh University in 1986. The Department of Education requires campus police departments to publish the records in October of each year for the previous three calendar years. ACUPD is required to distribute the report to

all current and prospective students and employees. There were seven on-campus burglaries in 2017, down from 10 in 2016, eight on-campus drug violations, up from seven and seven on-campus liquor law violations compared to 12 the previous year. “We are a community of 6,000 humans surrounded by a community of 120,000 humans, so crime is an unfortunate reality that ACUPD works hard to keep as low as possible, while tracking crime trends and data very closely,” said ACU Police Chief Jimmy Ellison, who compiled the report. The national numbers are not public until Oct. 18, but compared to other schools similar in size and

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One of the things I’m proud about at ACU is that we have developed a campus culture of being vigilant toward crime, and when crime does occur, our campus community has become exceptional at reporting it.” JIMMY ELLISON ACUPD POLICE CHIEF

religious affiliation (Harding University, Pepperdine University and Lipscomb University), ACU has higher crime rates in a few areas. In 2016, ACU had 12 liquor law violations, and the other three had none. Ellison said the Clery report requires all university police departments to use the same criteria on how to report crimes, but

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some schools may appear to have exceptionally low numbers because they may only have security departments, which have no arrest authority, thus arrests and citations may not occur. Instead, students are only referred to campus officials for discipline. ACU operates a licensed police department, so on-campus violations, such as alcohol and drug related offenses, result in arrest or citation and also get referred to Student Life for disciplinary action, Ellison clarified. Despite an increase in five categories (rape (sexual assault), aggravated assault, motor vehicle theft, drug violations (arrests), liquor law violations (arrests), liquor law violations

(referrals for disciplinary action) and dating violence), Ellison said he is grateful of the growing culture of awareness and reporting on campus. “One of the things I’m proud about at ACU is that we have developed a campus culture of being vigilant toward crime, and when crime does occur, our campus community has become exceptional at reporting it,” Ellison said. “An increase in number also means we’ve achieved an increase in awareness and reporting. More victims are getting the resources they need.” The Clery report uses SEE CLERY PAGE 9

Page 2 | Homecoming Court

Friday, October 12, 2018

THE QUEEN NOMINEES 13 senior women speak on favorite homecoming memories

RACHEL BEST

SARAH BROOKS

ALLI DENNIS

MEGAN FRIDGE

Club: GATA Major: Nursing Hometown: New Braunfels Escort: Brother, Jeremy Best

Club: Ko Jo Kai Major: Kinesiology Hometown: Lubbock Escort: Father, Larry Brooks

Club: Sigma Theta Chi Major: Communication Sciences and Disorders Hometown: Garland Escort: Father, Kevin Dennis

Club: Ko Jo Kai Major: Marketing Hometown: Sugar Land Escort: Father, Eric Fridge

I feel so honored to be nominated. I was so shocked when I found out I had been nominated.

I am so honored and humbled to have been nominated with such outstanding women. My favorite part about Homecoming is being reunited with alumni. There’s nothing better than being surrounded by Wildcats who have come before and share the same experiences. I also love the Homecoming Parade because it highlights social clubs and various student organizations on campus.

Homecoming has always been such a special part of ACU tradition for me. My parents both went to ACU, so I grew up hearing all about the different traditions. Getting to come here and live them out has been such a huge blessing! I look forward to coming back to Homecoming breakfasts, games and parades and all the other fun traditions in the future!

Both of my parents are alumni, so Homecoming is a tradition we have participated in since I was young. My favorite part is the way the parade brings campus together. From student organizations, social clubs and athletic teams to academic groups, the parade represents nearly every student. It feels surreal to get to participate as a member of the Homecoming Court this year!

RACHEL JONES

ALEX HILL

KAYLA MOSLEY

JESSICA PARSONS

CAMRYN PHILLIPS

Club: GATA Major: English Hometown: Fort Worth Escort: Father, David Hill

Club: Ko Jo Kai Major: Communications Hometown: San Antonio Escort: Father, Scott Jones

Club: Alpha Kai Omega Major: Political Science Hometown: Fort Worth Escort: Father, Lee Eckler

Club: GATA Major: Elementary Education Hometown: Peoria, Illinois Escort: Father, Lee Eckler

Club: GATA Major: Business Management Hometown: Keller Escort: Father, Chris Phillips

I’m very humbled and honored to be nominated. I am also shocked. There are so many incredible women in this senior class, and I’m beyond honored to be on court with other awesome women.

It’s so surreal, and surprising honestly. In high school, I was homeschooled, and my freshman and sophomore years I was pretty introverted. I’ve never been ‘that girl,’ but all I know is I love this school with all my heart, and I am so blessed by the wonderful people around me.

My favorite part about Homecoming every year is the community coming together to celebrate ACU! I love seeing all of the members and alumni of every club come together to catch up, and learn about what made each club what it is today. I’m so excited for our newest pledges to experience this.

My most memorable Homecoming was during pledging. There’s something special that came from bonding with my sisters as we worked together for the parade. Being the GATA vice president and having the privilege to oversee our pledge class as they make special memories for themselves has been the biggest blessing I could ask for.

Many of my family members are alumni, so Homecoming has always been one of my favorite things! My absolute favorite thing about Homecoming is getting to reconnect with people who have graduated, and spend that time with friends and family that love being a part of the ACU community.

GINAPHR SEAT

RACE TERRY

TORI TIMMONS

JESSICA WININGER

Club: Alpha Kai Omega Major: Kinesiology Hometown: Bartlesville, Oklahoma Escort: Father, Aaron Seat

Club: Sigma Theta Chi Major: Communications Hometown: Lubbock Escort: Father, Chad Terry

Club: Tri Kappa Gamma Major: Business Management Hometown: Lubbock Escort: Father, Andy Timmons

Club: Alpha Kai Omega Major: Digital Entertainment Technology Hometown: Hasley Escort: Father, Ted Wininger

I love that Homecoming is an event where current and former students get to come together and share in traditions. These traditions are what make ACU Homecoming so special. My favorite part about Homecoming is seeing the alumni return to campus. They are always so excited to be back and it serves as a reminder of the lifelong community we gain at ACU.

Growing up in a small, tight-knit community taught me the values of tradition, school spirit and a love for football season! I remember being so excited for Homecoming week, because I loved wearing my sparkly mum to school and watching the court in their convertibles during the parade! I am honored to be part of the Homecoming Court.

One of my favorite things about Homecoming is catching up with friends who have already graduated. It’s a great reminder that life can be busy sometimes, but the friends you make at ACU are lifelong. They will always encourage and support you no matter how far apart you are. I have loved having the opportunity to be on Homecoming Court.

All of my favorite memories about Homecoming are because of the people I spend it with – whether cheering at the games, bundling up in blankets and watching the parade with my roommates or chanting my heart out with my Kudo sisters behind our float. I love that Homecoming is a time of bringing people back together and celebrating our school and the things that tie us together.

Friday, October 12, 2018

News | Page 3

CAMPUS NEWS

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We want a club that stands for strong character, leadership, and competition.” LARRY KING, KINSMAN THE OPTIMIST SEPTEMBER 20, 1968

Gamma Sigma Phi celebrates 50 years ZORAH GREEN STAFF REPORTER

Gamma Sigma Phi will celebrate it’s 50th anniversary this Homecoming season. Gamma Sigma Phi is the largest men’s social club on campus. Hutton Harris, alumnus and sponsor, said the social club will take around 40 new members this year. On average, GSP usual-

ly has around 75-100 members. Harris estimated that in total, GSP has had 4,0005,000 members. “I think that Gamma Sig has the purpose-driven community to where we’re focused on a Christ-like intentional community when we’re together throughout our time in the club,” he said. “It’s really nice to see the brotherhood that’s going on there.”

He said he is also proud of the members for their competitiveness and good sportsmanship. “Intramurals is a big deal. That’s a way for GSP to show their competitiveness, and also their integrity,” said Harris. “You obviously have a competition in you that you want to win, but at the same time, it’s not a big deal if you lose.”

Harris said he enjoys working with the GSP leadership team and praises them for their maturity. Among these leaders, is Lincoln Jones, senior accounting major from Brentwood, Tennessee, and president of Gamma Sigma Phi. Jones pledged in the fall of 2016. That spring he was elected as chaplain, before being elected president.

Jones said the diversity in GSP is what makes the club so great. “We look at GSP as a place where all men who are seeking Christ can come together and build each other up and encourage each other and have fun together,” Jones said. He said one of his favorite club memories occurred at a flag football

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game, when multiple GSP members came together to teach a new member how to play flag football. Later in the season, they threw him a pass that resulted in a game-winning touchdown. Jones said moments like those are what GSP is all about. He said his best advice to pledges is to think about the people you want to spend your days.

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Page 4 | Features

Friday, October 12, 2018

THE CREATION CREATES Santana uses creative passions to unify campus

Photos by LAUREN FRANCO | EDITOR-IN-CHIEF LAUREN FRANCO EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Photo courtesy of NIL SANTANA A before and after of the new ACUTV studio on the first floor of the Don Morris building. Santana has worked on the space since June of 2018, and plans to finish in the coming weeks. He also plans to build a desk for the studio once the studio is completed.

ake. Learn. Inspire. Three things Nil Santana excels and thrives in. Santana has been teaching at ACU for 18 years as an associate professor of art and design, and was director of the Maker Lab for five years. This year, he transitioned to associate director, focusing more on collaborations with departments and campus development. The largest project the Maker Lab has participated in is the renovation of the Journalism and Mass Communication broadcast studio. Over the summer, Santana worked four-five hours every day to gut, repaint and rebuild the inside of the studio. It took three weeks for him to repaint the studio black and six weeks to build the set. The team, Nathan Gibbs, Director of KACU; Ben Mankin, and Santana, all JMC alumni, pulled ideas from high-dollar production sets from professional channels such as NBC, ABC, CBS and Fox. Santana built a three-dimensional model and began building the set with no form of measurement. The only measurements Santana used for the set were the overall width and length. “I started building the main components of the set, maintaining a visual proportion established on the three-dimensional model, but there were no specific dimensions or drawings,” Santana said. “Each time I built a corner piece or center piece I’d look at the model and visually compare to it.” Through the building process, Santana said each texture had to be tested to make sure the light would hit each one, but they wanted to make sure it had depth and looked professional. “All the decision-making happened based on what it looked like on camera,” Santana said. The set was designed with flexibility in mind, allowing all three sections – the left and right corners, and the centerpiece – to be moved. To wrap up the studio construction, Santana said he plans to make a professional-style desk made out of thick plexiglass, which is scheduled to arrive during Homecoming weekend. In addition to the ACUTV studio, Santana worked alongside Brent Reeves to innovate the Quad area outside of the Onstead Science Center. The entire development of

“

“I think of how disciplines can inform each other, how art can form science and vice versa. The collaborative nature of the Maker Lab is what makes the Maker Lab such a space. The ethos of Maker Lab is collaboration.” NIL SANTANA ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF THE MAKER LAB

the interactive tubes, known as the Lightwalk, took place in the Maker Lab. “Just last weekend we came by to make sure the lights were still working, and it’s always fun to see people reacting to the lights and playing with them,” Santana said. In January, Reeves and Santana went to New York to receive the International Data Corporation Smart Cities North America Awards for the project. ACU was a co-winner for the eduction category and won for its innovation using internet and technology. This semester, Santana is teaching an occupational therapy class, integrating design thinking, creativity and problem solving. “Those moments that we’ve had, they are very meaningful to our experiences,” Santana said. “It is very transformative to teach design to nontraditional art students. Seeing the quality of thinking in solutions that come out of that when they learn the methodology in the products they have been able to develop, they can really change someone’s life.”

is next project is to renovate an upright player piano to connect to phones. Santana will replace the old air valves with computer-controlled actuators, but still maintain the capability to play with the standard keys. He said he plans to have it ready by Maker Fest in the Spring. “Someone gave me an old piano a couple of years ago, and since that day I wanted to work on it, make it a fun project,” Santana said. “I think the project will be another great example of using creativity and ingenuity combined with programing and engineering. I can’t wait to see – and hear – it playing.” Santana said one of his goals is to collaborate with every department on campus. “I believe in collaboration, multidisciplinary collaborations and projects,” Santana said. “I think of how disciplines can inform each other, how art can form science and vice versa. The collaborative nature of the Maker Lab is what makes the Maker Lab such a space. The ethos of Maker Lab is collaboration.”

Santana explains the parts that need completion in the studio, including LED lighting and plexiglass on each of the panels.

Santana and Dr. Brent Reeves, associate professor of Management Science and Computer Science, examine the lights and test their ability to sync with cell phones.

In his next project, Santana plans to renovate an upright player piano to connect to phones, similar to a jukebox. It will also maintain the capability to play with the standard keys

Friday, October 12, 2018

Campus News | Page 5

CAMPUS NEWS

Chemistry continues annual circus LEXI KIRGAN STAFF REPORTER

The 32nd annual Chemistry Circus will take place Friday at 6 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. Dr. Kim Pamplin, professor and chair of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, participated in this event when he was a student, and said he is excited to be able to just watch and reminisce on old times. “I was involved in this as a student and have fond memories of performing some of the same acts that students will perform this year,” said Pamplin. “Later as a young faculty member, I was the emcee for a few years and enjoyed watching the shows again through the eyes of my young kids. Now as department chair with my own kids at ACU, I get to sit back and watch the whole show.”

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I was involved in this as a student and have fond memories of performing some of the same acts that students will perform this year.”

DR. KIM PAMPLIN PROFESSOR AND CHAIR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY AND BIOCHEMISTRY

The Chemistry Circus is put on by students in the Chemistry Club as well as students in the seminar class. The purpose of the event is for people to come and enjoy themselves while experiencing first hand what the students have learned over the semester. Dr. Brad Rix, associate professor of chemistry and biochemistry said the Chemistry Circus is for people to come and be educated while watching cool things happen. “It is more fun with a little educational part to it,” Rix said. “We kind of talk a little bit about the experiment we are going to do on a real basic level because its just a general audience... we really just want to set things on fire, blow things up and make fun colors.” Rix said this is a fun and safe way to indulge in something you enjoy or a way to get away from the busy duties that homecoming week brings. “All are welcome to come and enjoy the show,” said Pamplin. “There are occasionally loud sounds or stinky smells, but we always warn the audience prior to such demos so that parents can prepare their very young kids or take them out if necessary, and anyone with potential breathing difficulties can be near an exit if need be.”

Three honored with JMC’s Gutenberg MADELINE DAYTON COLUMNIST

The Department of Journalism and Mass Communications hosted its 26th annual Gutenberg Celebration in the Hunter Welcome Center Thursday evening. The event began with a reception, followed by an awards presentation. Guests were then invited to the Don H. Morris Building for the dedication of the Mankin Media Control Room and the department’s new production studio after the awards presentation. This event began as a tradition in 1993, and gives the Gutenberg award to three distinguished alumni from the department each year. Some past JMC honorees include Dr. Kenneth Pybus, who won a Gutenberg in 2003, as well as Dr. Doug Mendenhall, who won a Gutenberg in 2000. This year’s honorees

Mankin Lewis are Ben Mankin, Jonathan Smith and Kim Lewis Sanders. Mankin is Smith the founder and CEO of Mankin Media, which he started in 2001. Mankin graduated from ACU with a degree in broadcast production in 1998. Mankin Media has received many awards, including being ranked in Inc. 5000’s “America’s Fastest Growing Private Companies” from 20092017. Mankin resides in Franklin, Tennessee. Smith is the multiplatform editor for The Washington Post news ser-

vice and has been working in news media for more than a decade. He has been part of two staffs that were recognized for the 2018 Pulitzer Prize awards. Smith graduated from ACU in 2006 with a degree in journalism and currently lives in Washington. Lewis is the vice-president of digital strategies at Sonic Drive-In, the nation’s largest drive-thru restaurant chain. Lewis is a 2001 graduate of ACU with a degree in integrated marketing communications. She has received many awards, including the recent nomination to the Top 100 “Women to Watch” list in 2017. She resides in Oklahoma City. When asked about the event, Karly Mitchell, account director of the Gutenberg team and senior Advertising and Public Relations major from Franklin, said, “I am so honored

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I am so honored that I got the opportunity to coordinate such an important event that has been around for so long.” KARLY MITCHELL ACCOUNT DIRECTOR OF THE GUTENBURG TEAM

that I got the opportunity to coordinate such an important event that has been around for so long.” Her hope was that “students leave the event with motivation to receive a Gutenberg award one day.” This Gutenberg celebration is Pybus’ first as chair of the Department of Journalism and Mass Communications. He stated that this year’s group of honorees are “an outstanding representation of the breadth of work we train our students to do.” Gutenberg is always free for JMC majors and minors, due to donations from faculty and alumni.

Events

Friday 10/12 1. Freshman Bell Ringing Saturday 10/13 1. Homecoming Parade 2. Football v.s. Nicholls 3. Tailgating 4. Choir’s Homecoming Concert and Reception Monday 10/15 1. Pledging week 3 Tuesday 10/16 1. Pledging week 3 2. Volleyball vs. TAMU-CC Thursday 10/18 1. Volleyball vs. Northwestern state

days until fall break

ABILENE NEWS

ACUPD runs summer active shooter training LAUREN FRANCO EDITOR IN CHIEF

ACUPD conducted active shooter training over the summer through the ALERRT national program. ALERRT, Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training, teaches law enforcement, fire and medical to be on the same page and understand their roles in an emergency. Texas State University developed the program in 2002 in partnership with the San Marcos Texas Police Department and the Hays County Texas Sheriff ’s Department. In 2013, the FBI named the ALERRT center the official national standard for all active shooter training for US law enforcement agencies. Police Chief, Jimmy Ellison said ACUPD participates in the training foursix times every year,

allowing every party to conduct their roles timely and effectively. “Everyone knows what their role is, and everyone’s role is essential,” Ellison said. “We go through this with multi-agency training scenarios, and we want to make sure we’re getting things done in a timely manner.” Randy Motz, training coordinator for active shooter preparedness and training, focuses on a four-pronged model: building approach, formation, building entry and building search. The department trains during holidays to avoid distracting classes. Though the training is for law enforcement, Ellison said they teach civilians a three-step approach to remaining safe when an active shooter situation occurs. The national model proposes to “avoid, deny and defend.” ACUPD teaches a

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We will take every opportunity we can to get this subject matter in front of people because it is essential.”

POLICE CHIEF JIMMY ELLISON ACUPD

parallel, simplified approach called “Run, Hide, Fight.” “What we train civilians for is that you have to make critical decisions in the moment. You have to be able to assess what is going on. If you can get out of the building, we want you to get out of the building.” First, the model teaches to run or avoid. Ellison said it is important to get away from danger and find safety. When you call the police, report what you see, what you hear and when you get to safety. Second, hide or deny. If the option to run is not available, hide, lock the doors and barricade with

nearby items such as chairs and desks. ACUPD is testing a pilot program in the College of Business Administration, installing devices made to barricade doors. There are two different devices, one is a steel sleeve that slides over hydraulic arms to prevent opening and the other is a pre-drilled hole in the floor that a pin can be dropped into. “We’ve been pleased with the overall results and hope to get other buildings on campus to buy-in this year, providing safer environments for students and faculty should we ever be faced with the tragedy of an active shooter on campus,” Ellison said. The last option is to fight or defend. Ellison said any item that will distract the shooter can be used including fire extinguishers, books, chairs or other class-

room items. “Plan an attack, someone tackling the gunman high, someone tackling low. If the gunman is having to fight, or is heavily distracted, he’s not actively killing people. “Those are individual decisions that people have to make, we don’t encourage people to do one or the other,” Ellison said. “You have to be thinking about using anything you can.” Ellison said the department is eager to teach all campus groups about ALERRT, but needs 30-45 minutes to do so adequately. “We will take every opportunity we can to get this subject matter in front of people because it is essential.” Though they don’t have a date set for the next active shooter training, Ellison said it will be this semester.

Kirk Goodwin Run benefit dinner brings many together ALLISON HARRELL STAFF REPORTER

Galaxy will host its annual Kirk Goodwin Run benefit dinner on Oct. 12 on the Grace Museum rooftop. The Kirk Goodwin Run has become a beloved tradition. The run began in commemoration of Kirk Goodwin, a student and member of Galaxy in 1986, after he fell asleep at the wheel and was killed by the crash. The Kirk Goodwin Run aims to raise funds for a

certain family with connections to ACU, a student or alum, with significant debt or financial need due to unforeseen medical expenses. “We want to raise money to help sponsor them to help them get out from under that debt,” said Reed Denton, KGR co-director, Galaxy Treasurer and senior financial management major from Belton. Each year the social club begins the donation process with a benefit dinner, where they invite back all alumni. Usually around 50-60 Galaxy alumni make their way

back to campus to attend. Denton said it is their first big fundraiser that gives donations toward the goal of the project. “The benefit dinner is kind of a way to get funds kicked off right away and to start raising money,” Denton said. “It will just be a time to catch up. Since it’s on the Friday of Homecoming weekend, it’s kind of that first big moment where everyone gets to see everybody again.” This year Galaxy has asked former member Guy Lewis to be the guest

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The benefit dinner is kind of a way to get funds kicked off right away and to start raising money.”

REED DENTON KGR CO-DIRECTOR AND SENIOR FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT MAJOR FROM BELTON

speaker at the dinner. The Kirk Goodwin Run’s official date is still being determined but will occur around mid-April. Chase Rogers, KGR co-director, Galaxy Secretary and senior English

education major from Arlington, said he enjoys his time spent at the dinner and the run, getting to know older members and working for a good cause. “It means a lot to me because it means that I’m doing something good,” Rogers said. “It means that I am actually making a difference and that’s kind of cool when you know that something you do isn’t just for the name or because it looks cool, but you’re actually doing something that has weight and meaning.”

POLICE LOG SELECTED ACUPD CALLS FOR THE WEEK 10/04/2018 3:30 p.m. ACUPD investigated a reported suspicious person in the 800 blk of EN 15th. The person was arrested on outstanding warrants, transported to jail. 10/05/2018 10:45 p.m. ACU coaches reported a possible intoxicated person in the stadium after closing. Officers determined that the person was unaffiliated with ACU and was not intoxicated, possibly having a drug reaction. A family member was called and picked the person up. 10/07/2018 9:56 p.m. ACUPD responded to a reported prowler at a students off-campus house. Officers checked the area, spoke to the students, and put the house on follow-up patrol. 911 CALL............................................................0 ABANDONED VEHICLE....................0 ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIVITY.........................................................31 ADVICE..............................................................1 ALARM..............................................................4 ANIMAL CALL...........................................10 ASSIST................................................................0 ATTEMPT TO LOCATE..........................0 BARRICADES..............................................0 BICYCLE PARTROL................................0 BUILDING LOCK/UNLOCK.......................................17 BURGLARY....................................................0 CART PATROL.............................................0

CHECK BUILDING............................407 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF...........................0 DISTURBANCE..........................................4 DOMESTIC DISTURBANCE............0 ESCORT............................................................0 FOOT PATROL............................................6 FOUND PROPERTY...............................2 HIT & RUN.......................................................3 INFORMATION REPORT...................4 INVESTIGATION FOLLOW UP...............................................18 LOST PROPERTY......................................3 MAINTENANCE: UNIV ASSETS.............................................18 MEDICAL EMERGENCY.....................3

MONITOR FACILITY/ LOT......................................................................12 MOTORIST ASSIST: OTHER..............................................................5 MOTORIST ASSIST: JUMPSTART................................................15 MOTORIST ASSIST: UNLOCK..........................................................11 NOISE VIOLATION..................................4 OTHER...............................................................2 PARKING LOT PATROL....................37 PARKING VIOLATION........................25 PATROL VEHICLE: MAINTENANCE.......................................5

PATROL VEHICLE: REFUEL..........................................................8 PROWLER...................................................4 RANDOM PATROL............................10 REPORT WRITING.............................30 SOLICITING..................................................1 SPECIAL ASSIGNMENT....................0 SUSPICIOUS PERSON.....................10 THEFT..............................................................0 TRAFFIC HAZARD................................5 TRAFFIC STOP.........................................6 VEHICLE COLLISION..........................4 WELFARE CHECK.................................5 TOTAL.....................................................761

Chief Ellison’s Weekly Tip ACUPD wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable Homecoming Weekend ! Call ACUPD if we can be of any assistance.

Page 6 | Special Edition: Homecoming Musical Gallery

Friday, October 12, 2018

Special Edition: Homecoming Musical Gallery | Page 7

Friday, October 12, 2018

‘I SEE IT, I KNOW IT, IT’S LOVE’ Theatre students perform ‘Wonderful Town’ after seven weeks of preparation and rehearsal TESSA KENNEDY STAFF REPORTER

onderful Town, the Homecoming Musical will open on Friday at 8 p.m. at the Abilene Civic Center, and will continue through Sunday at 2 p.m. Written by Joseph A. Fields and Jerome Chodorov, with music by Leonard Bernstein, Wonderful Town, is about two sisters, Ruth and Eileen Sherwood (Payton Reeves and Helena Lynch, respectively) who leave Columbus, Ohio, and move to New York City in 1935 to chase their career dreams. Adam Hester, the director of the production and professor of theatre, said he enjoyed working through the selection this year. “The show has this really fun plot with all these crazy, wacky things that go on throughout the story, and there’s just great heart to it,” Hester said. “It’s a family-friendly musical with very hummable tunes. It’s one of those musicals that will be around for a long time, one that just keeps coming back. Audiences love it.” Every year, the Homecoming Musical is one of the Department of Theatre’s most grandiose and glamorous endeavors, and Hester said is a lot goes into its selection and production process. “When choosing the Homecoming Musical, we have to balance what will be a good growing and learning experience for our student population as well as what our patrons would want to come see, thinking particularly of the alumni that would be coming home,” Hester said. “This one seems to fit the bill on all fronts.” The cast and crew have been working on the show since the beginning of the school year. The first day of classes was also their first rehearsal.

“Wonderful Town is such an ensemble piece, and there is so much that is required of this cast and backstage crew that we talked about early on,” Hester said. “It’s not a show that this age group typically knows, so it’s one that the cast had to become familiar with before they could really fall in love with it. Over time, the affection for this show has certainly grown amongst our cast and crew.” ndrew Boone, senior acting major from Abilene, who plays Robert Baker, one of the lead characters in the musical, said he is excited to become his character onstage.

“I’m coming straight off a month-long run playing a lead in a professional musical, and having that experience takes some pressure off of me and allows me simply to embody this character and just play onstage,” Boone said. “That’s really what this is: playing. There is a lot of work and I take that side of it very seriously, but whenever I step onto the stage, I just have fun playing make believe with my best friends.” Boone will graduate this year, leaving many of these best friends behind to follow his own artistic path. Every senior in the department will move to New York to finish their last semester with the Tepper Program. “It’s very bittersweet,” Boone said. “I see this as the culmination of both

my training as an artist and the precious time I’ve spent growing as a person in this department. I wouldn’t want it to end any other way than to perform this magical show with my best friends. I’m trying to savor every last rehearsal.” Hester said a multitude of elements make this production an extravagant spectacle. David Utley, an ACU alumnus who worked on various productions, including Man of La Mancha and Big Fish, also designed the set for Wonderful Town.

“David designed this fantastic elevated train platform that makes you feel like you’re in New York City,” Hester said. “He and I had been looking at a variety of different images, trying to capture the essence of the show and there was this one that we both loved that had both the romantic quality and the innocence and the fun that is Wonderful Town.” ily Balogh, who is new to faculty this year, worked to perfect the show’s dance numbers. “She has amazing choreography,” Hester said of Balogh. “Getting to train under her has been great for our students. There have been lots of opportunities with a variety of

different dances. There’s a really powerful ballet in the show, as well as jazz numbers and all kinds of different music that is fun both for people to watch and for our students to learn.” “Lily is incredible,” said Boone. “She brings an air of professionalism to everything she does, but she’s also like our sister. She holds us to a Broadway-level standard of work ethic, yet also hangs out with us after rehearsal. We all adore Lily.” Though many elements have been marvelous, several things made the process of the show taxing, including sickness, injury and the passing of theatre minor, Jessica Richardson. “The tragedy and Jessica Richardson hit us very hard,” Hester said. “She was a theatre minor and in my playwriting class. She was such a talent. She had many many friends in this department, so that was really hard.” Easton Orr, a sophomore musical theatre major who plays Strange Man in the show, suffered an injury, in which freshman Corban Gililland stepped in for his dances. Though Orr said he is doing substantially better and still plans to be in the production, he will not participate in every dance number. “Gililland has been covering this since day one, so he was able to step right in and not miss a beat,” Hester said. “He’s really outstanding as a performer. “I would say the play itself does point to several things that are reminders about the idea of restoration and reconciliation that God is calling us to,” Hester said. “Early on we talked about that in our table work. Even though it’s such a fun, silly comedy, in many ways there are elements of this show that remind us about those essential parts of our own Christian walk.”

Photos by NICHOLAS CROMWELL | CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER The cast of Wonderful Town has been practicing since the first week of school. The play is about two sisters, Ruth and Eileen Sherwood (Payton Reeves and Helena Lynch, respectively) who leave Columbus, Ohio and move to New York City in 1935 to chase their career dreams. In addition to Reeves and Lynch, Andrew Boone plays Robert Baker, Lance Bleakney plays Wreck, Andrew Gilliland plays Chick Clark, and Griffin Jones and Court Teal are ensemble.

Page 6 | Special Edition: Homecoming Musical Gallery

Friday, October 12, 2018

Special Edition: Homecoming Musical Gallery | Page 7

Friday, October 12, 2018

‘I SEE IT, I KNOW IT, IT’S LOVE’ Theatre students perform ‘Wonderful Town’ after seven weeks of preparation and rehearsal TESSA KENNEDY STAFF REPORTER

Page 8 | Campus News

Friday, October 12, 2018

CAMPUS NEWS

Sing Song archives website launches ASHLEY ALFRED SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

An official Sing Song archives website launched Friday afternoon. Nick Tatum, director of student productions, created the Sing Song archives with the help of Courtney McGaha, Sing Song archivist, to preserve the history of one of ACU’s longest standing traditions. The archives include audio, video, pictures and articles from each annual show, beginning in 1957. McGaha said the purpose of the archives is more than to simply preserve history, but also to connect students and alumni over their shared experiences. From her first time participating in Sing Song, she discovered her interest in the event’s history.

McGaha’s parents participated in Sing Song when they were students, and lent her their old recordings from the event. When McGaha noticed the recordings’ deteriorating condition, she converted them to mp3 format to preserve them. “After that, I became concerned that all the recordings of other years were also being lost to time and old age,” said McGaha. “Before I graduated, I managed to find a large number of those recordings and convert them, but as I was only doing it for friends, family, and for my own interest, I never thought I would get the opportunity to complete the collection.” When Tatum found out about McGaha’s project, he asked her to finish the archives. He asked McGaha to upload every piece of

history they could recover online for students and alumni to enjoy. “I jumped at the chance to be able to preserve as many as I could find,” said McGaha. “I was so excited to finally be able to forever share all of these memories with those that were there and are those that are just now discovering what Sing Song is.” Throughout the process, McGaha digitized every reelto-reel, vinyl LP, cassette tape, VHS tape or DVD from 62 years of Sing Song. She then went through every version of ACU’s former yearbook, the Prickly Pear, and the Optimist online to find articles applicable to each Sing Song show. McGaha concluded the process by scanning each Sing Song program and building the website. Going

Sigma Theta Chi performing its 1970 act, “‘Peter Pan’ Medley”.

forward, her role is to maintain the files and archival site. “We believe that in order to take Sing Song into the future, its unique heritage needed to be understood and appreciated,” said McGaha. “This is one of ACU’s greatest traditions and we wanted to make sure everyone could enjoy it to the fullest extent.

This year’s Sing Song will be Nick Tatum’s first as director of student productions. Because of this, Tatum made changes to ensure participating acts were gathering necessary content to continue the Sing Song archives. Each group will be required to choose a theme that was done by any

group before 2000. Then, they will have to include one song performed in the original act. “To know where we should go, we need to understand where Sing Song has been,” Tatum said. “We’re hoping this twist excites students, adds an interesting challenge and ultimately creates an enjoyable show.”

Big Purple features ‘Story’ for Homecoming performance HANNAH JOHNSON STAFF REPORTER

“Tell Me a Story” is the theme for the band performance at the Homecoming football game. The Big Purple Marching Band played the first two songs of their Homecoming set during the last home game as a preview. The band will start with Scheherazade by Nikolai

Rimsky-Korsakov as the opener. The piece was named after a main character in One Thousand and One Nights. Brandon Houghtalen, director of Big Purple Marching Band, said Scheherazade told a story every night to prolong her life because the king took a new wife each day. In the book, if she did not keep telling stories, she would be executed.

Mumbo from West Side Story comes next. Houghtalen added this song in dedication to American composer Leonard Bernstein’s 100th birthday. Bernstein composed West Side Story. “And Mumbo was a lot of fun,” Houghtalen said. “So it just worked out perfectly to do that this year.” A mashup of two pieces, The Story of Tonight by

Lin-Manuel Miranda from Hamilton: The Musical and Chester by William Billings, follow Mumbo. Since both of the pieces deal with revolution, Houghtalen thought to bring the pieces together. This is Me from The Greatest Showman is the last piece the band will play for the performance. “So we start with an older story and we move to one of the twentieth cen-

tury and then the last two pieces are really current,” Houghtalen said. Marissa Lietz, band president, said the four pieces go with the theme of “Tell Me a Story.” “And I think that’s awesome just for this homecoming experience because we’re all sort of coming home,” said Leitz, senior music education major from New Braunfels. “And we all have really kind

of come up with our own stories here at ACU.” “Tell Me Your Story” was going to be the original theme name, but Houghtalen thought it seemed too preachy. “And we’re here to fun,” Houghtalen said. “But these pieces work really well together. They’re all written from the standpoint of telling a story or helping to tell a story, you know.”

ALLAYNA FORD MANAGING EDITOR

still register to attend other Homecoming events. The national championship football class of 1973 will have a reunion this year, as well. On Friday, there will be a dinner for all who register, and a class recognition during the football game. Following the game, a firework show will light up the sky above Wildcat Stadium. Prickly Pears will be on display in the Brown library from Thursday to Sunday, allowing visitors to be submerged in the past, and giving current students the ability to see how ACU looked and functioned in past years. The theatre department’s musical this year is Wonderful Town. Showtimes will be on Friday, Saturday and Sunday with tickets available for purchase online or at the door.

Everything you need to know about Homecoming

Moody Coliseum 11:00 A.M.

OPEN HOUSE: Anthony Field at Wildcat Stadium 1:00-3:00 P.M.

HOMECOMING CARNIVAL

Campus Mall and Money Recreation Center 5:00-8:00 P.M.

OPEN HOUSE:

Maker Lab (Brown Library Artium) 5:00-7:00 P.M.

ACU SPORTS HALL OF FAME CELEBRATION

Hunter Welcome Center 6:30 P.M.

HOMECOMING MUSICAL:

WONDERFUL TOWN Abilene Civic Center 1100 N. 6th Street 8:00 P.M.

CANDLELIGHT DEVO Beauchamp Amphitheatre 8:15-8:45 P.M.

FILMFEST ENCORE Campus Mall 9:00 P.M.

For a full schedule of this weekend’s events, visit AlumniAssociation.acu.edu

SATURDAY

CHAPEL

HOMECOMING PARADE Beginning at E.N. 16th Street 9:30 A.M.

HOMECOMING CHAPEL Moody Coliseum 10:45 A.M.

TAILGATE Campus Lawn 11:30 A.M.

WILDCAT FOOTBALL vs.NICHOLLS

Anthony Field at Wildcat Stadium 2:30 P.M.

Homecoming, themed Better Together, will feature both new events and long-standing traditions for alumni. The alumni class tailgate is new on the schedule of events, replacing the usual class dinner. There is a $5 sign-up fee for the tailgate, with free admission to children ages two and younger. Beginning in 1973, graduates of years that end in a three or eight are invited to attend their class reunion this year. Graduates of years ending in three or eight going back to the year of 1973 are invited to attend their class reunion this year, however, alumni not having a reunion this year can

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Friday, October 12, 2018

News | Page 9

CAMPUS NEWS

Hines returns to crown new Queen at football game ALLAYNA FORD MANAGING EDITOR

Lauryn Hines, 2007 Homecoming Queen, will crown this year’s Queen at the football game on Saturday afternoon. Every year the homecoming queen is crowned by the returning queen from 10 years ago, which is referred to as the coming home court. Hines was crowned queen in 2007, but graduated in 2008. While a student, she was the historian for Sigma Theta Chi, participated in Sing Song every year, served as a Welcome Week director, an ACU camp counselor and worked in the admissions office. Hines said despite her heavy involvement around campus she did not expect to be nominated for Home-

“

We had such an amazing cloud of witnesses around us during that time and so many people came into my life while I was a student or working at ACU.” LAURYN HINES COMING HOME QUEEN

coming queen, or to win. Her husband died a year ago after a two-and-a-half year battle with cancer, and Hines said that the people she met from ACU have surrounded her in support during her difficult year. “I’m just thinking about how how thankful I am for the ACU community and all of the incredible people that supported us,” Hines said. “We had such an amazing cloud of witnesses around us during that time and so many people came into my

life while I was a student or working at ACU.” Hines said she was excited and surprised and nomination. “It means so much to me that it’s a peer nomination,” Hines said. “I remember standing there on there on the field with my dad, and they announced my name and we just looked at each other and we were shocked.” Hines is a second generation Wildcat, with her mother, also being on the Homecoming Court. Hines’ father is Guy Lewis, a member of the Board of Trustees. Hines said that she enjoyed her time here and continuing the family legacy. “It’s kind of a cool, special family tradition,” Hines said. “I’m the oldest of five kids and all of my brothers and sisters have gone

to ACU also. So ACU is a family tradition and it’s like a home away from home.” Homecoming offers other events than the crowning of the homecoming queen, but Hines said she does not have a specific favorite event, because she most looks forward to the people she will get to see. “As anyone who has been an ACU student knows the best part of ACU is the people,” Hines said. “It’s the joy and happiness of getting to see all those people you met through ACU that have meant so much to you.” Hines currently lives in Dallas and is a small business owner of a shop called Love Nest Creative. As a student she majored in English and advertising and public relations. Hines said that she is

Hines hugs her father after she was announced Homecoming Queen in 2007. looking forward to coming the next homecoming back to campus to crown queen.

Clery: ACUPD reports higher rate of crime in 2016 FROM CLERY PAGE 1 national language to identify each topic of crime. Ellison said the report uses “rape,” but it can also be identified as sexual assault. He also clarified that dating violence occurs between individuals in a dating or social relationship, whereas domestic violence is violence that has occurred between spouses, former spouses or two people who share a child together. In 2017, there were no reported cases of domestic violence, but three of dating violence. There were four reported rape incidents. “One sexual assault case is one too many,” Ellison said. “There are many factors in play, and sadly, rape statistics nationwide might be a by-product of

the overly sexualized culture we live in these days. Rapes on college campuses usually involve known suspects, and occur within a dating situation. This was the situation last year with four reported rapes, and while I wish we had zero, I’m also proud of the fact that four women had the courage to come forward and report that they were sexually assaulted.” Ellison said it’s always hard to determine who to attribute change in numbers to, but as far as the reduction in alcohol violations, he believes it is better training, awareness among Residence Life staff and high standards in ACU culture. “I’ll acknowledge the fact that these could be statistical variations, but I also like to tout the fact that there’s great effort

among res hall professionals to instill a culture of respect,” Ellison said. “Hopefully, people are respecting the dry campus

rules. Hopefully, they’re respecting the legal drinking age rule.” In 2017, there were seven liquor law violations, all

of which were in a dorm. “If ACUPD responds to an alcohol incident, and there’s five people in violation of the law, that’s one incident we have responded to, but it’s going to get counted as five offenses because there’s five people in violation of the law,” Ellison said. Faith-based institutions tend to have lower drug and alcohol numbers, according to Ellison. He said it can be attributable to culture, expectations and accountability, or could be that most faith-based institutions have dry campuses. In addition, not all on-campus crime occurs by university students. Ellison said Clery statistics are geared at geography, where the crime occurred, as opposed to who the offender is. The emphasis is to report crimes on cam-

pus, on other properties owned by ACU or in public streets and sidewalks immediately adjacent to the campus. “The intention of Clery is to give members of the campus community the ability to make informed decisions about their safety based on public crime data,” Ellison said. “The downside to Clery is that it has become so complicated and so complex that it can be rather difficult, at times, for the general public to even understand. It has great intentions, but there’s a lot of complexities behind the curtain. “I’m very satisfied with our reductions. I think they speak to awareness. I think we do a great job at ACUPD of educating our community,” Ellison said.

Graduate student donates bone marrow to infant ASHLEY ALFRED SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

In the fall of 2015, Hudson Wade was diagnosed with Leukemia at the age of 11. As his condition progressed, ACU hosted a bone marrow drive with DKMS, a nonprofit group that assists in finding bone marrow donors for stem cell transplantation. The drive took place in the Campus Center in hopes of finding a match for Wade’s transplant. Several months after the bone marrow drive, Wade lost his long battle. Madison Losher, occupation therapy graduate student

from Sunnyvale, was a close friend of Hudson Wade and his family. During his battle with Leukemia, Losher attended the bone marrow drive in hopes that she would be a match. Though she discovered she wasn’t, she moved forward in prayers for the Wade family. Losher had almost forgotten about the drive when she received a call in July from DKMS informing her that she was a potential match for an infant girl in need of a bone marrow transplant. Throughout August and September, she visited multiple clinics and underwent blood test after blood test.

After what felt like endless testing, Losher finally got the call that she was the top match for the infant one week before the start of classes. In late September, Losher traveled to Washington D.C. to undergo surgery. Although Losher was under anesthesia for an hour and a half, the surgeon removed marrow from her hip bones in less than 20 minutes. “It is so simple,” said Losher. “It sounds scary and painful and while you are sore for the week after the procedure, I was back to my normal routine within 3 days of my surgery.” Losher said Hudson

Losher recovers after the procedure in Bay 9. Wade’s family and friends often remember him by the number nine. Nine was his favorite number as well as the number he wore on his back in every sport he participated in. When Losher came out of surgery, she was placed in recovery bay nine.

“The Lord really works in really cool ways,” said Losher. “It was just a small way that we knew Hudson was present that day, as well as the Lord.” Losher has been recovering for a week and said she is thankful and honored for the

opportunity to have donated. “It may take two weeks of slowing your pace of life after surgery in place of giving life to someone,” said Losher. “I would do it again in a heartbeat.” Losher said she hopes others will take any opportunity to at least consider donating. “Being a donor has truly changed my mindset on how I view my body,” said Losher. “The Lord has made it extremely clear to me that my body is not my own, it is his.” Losher has not had any contact with the recipient or her family. After one year post-operational, the family will be given Losher’s contact information if they choose to contact her.

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Opinions | Page 10

Pink and green since 1919, ACU’s oldest club LAUREN FRANCO EDITOR IN CHIEF

Senior convergence journalism major from Euless Lets get one thing out of the way: If you’re going to call me biased, just go ahead and send the email now. For starters, I’m not entirely sure when this debate started, but I’m here to end it. Ko Jo Kai is the oldest social club on campus. It’s factual, it’s historical and I’m not sure why there was a debate to begin with. Don’t get me wrong, all social clubs have years of rich history, but Ko Jo Kai has just one more than GATA. The most common argu-

ment in this debate is that Ko Jo Kai changed from its original name, the Hi A club, in 1920. However, if this argument were consistent, we could cross-apply it to the name of our university itself. ACU would be less than 100 years old, starting as Childers Classical Institute in 1906, changing to Abilene Christian College in 1920, and to Abilene Christian University in 1976. In an ACU blog written in 2010, GATA’s claim to fame is that they are

the “oldest continuously named social club on the ACU campus” (weird flex, but OK). While true, it doesn’t change the fact that Ko Jo Kai is the oldest club. In the ACU Century Book, Ko Jo Kai is listed as the oldest club on campus. My name is Lauren Franco and I was born on May 20, 1997. If at any point I change my name, it won’t change the fact that I’m older than Madeline Dayton, born on August 27, 1997. In the Dec. 11, 1919 issue of the Optimist (Vol. VII, Issue IV), Georgia Rowsey wrote an article about 11 Daisy Hall women organizing a club called

the Hi A club, in which the purpose was to “have a good time.” The Hi A club is pictured in the 1920 Prickly Pear edition as the Hi A club, but as Ko Jo Kai in the 1921 version. The first mention of Ko Jo Kai in the Optimist was on February 17, 1921. G.A.T.A. was not chartered until January of 1920, according to the Optimist on Jan. 22, 1920. The G.A.T.A. Club (Girls Aid Toward Athletes) is pictured in the 1921 Prickly Pear edition with the caption, “Permanently organized in 1920.” So next year, as we celebrate our 100th anniversary, we’ll keep in mind that we’re the first to do so.

The Hi A Club in the 1920 edition of the Prickly Pear.

G.A.T.A. in the 1921 edition of the Prickly Pear yearbook.

G.A.T.A. in the 1920 edition of the Prickly Pear yearbook.

The Optimist in December of 1919, the first mention of the Hi A club.

Ko Jo Kai changed its name from the Hi A club in 1921. They are pictured as Ko Jo Kai in the 1921 edition of the Prickly Pear.

GUEST COLUMNIST

Life as a black female at ACU Ashlynn Mckay @AMCrand How do you properly respond when a 4th grader asks if you’ll ring 50 Shades of Grey to Read Aloud time? Asking for a friend.

TSION AMARE GUEST COLUMNIST

Junior Social Work major from Dallas

Flame Abby Johnston @AbbyJohnston14 Walking through Walmart after not eatng all day is a dangerous game to play hhunt @hayleeanne87 I’ve eaten popcorn for dinner the last three days. Alexa, play All Time Low by Jon Bellion Max Preston @Maxie__P I ordered a pizza at halftime of my intramural football game. I’m a pro at this college thing. Rachel Best @RachelBest2378 This is the first time in weeks I don’t have a test to study for. My plan was to study and get ahead for the next couple of weeks.... however, I just spent 2 hours going through @Beyonce’s instagram! eBOOni @HeyItsEbi You know you’re having a rough time when you go rogue at Hobby Lobby and feel no remorse Grace-Ann Combs @grace_annc the speed I move at when I see a bug on me is UNREAL. and how can I not access that any other time? frank @Lauren_franco1 the best part about homecoming is how many Optimist issues get picked up......... ......even if it’s only to be a float material.

ACU has been a home for the past two years, going on three. I first chose ACU because of its Christian atmosphere and small population. I value close relationships and community that can be beneficial for my growth mentally and spiritually. As a minority at a predominantly white institution, I have a different experience than most of my peers. I have always found it odd or dissatisfying that there are a disproportionate amount of people of color in every club, intramural sports, class or even Chapels you go to. ACU allowed the first African American to enroll in 1962. However, the impacts of years of segregation is still evident to this day. As you walk into Chapel, it isn’t uncommon to see the stands filled with white students. I have walked into classes where I am the only black female,

EDITORIAL AND LETTER POLICY Unsigned editorials are the opinions of the Optimist and may not necessarily reflect the views of the university or its administration. Signed columns, cartoons and letters are the opinions of their creators and may not necessarily reflect the viewpoints of the Optimist or the university. The Optimist encourages reader response through letters to the editor but reserves the right to limit frequent contributors or to refuse to print letters containing

personal attacks, obscenity, defamation, erroneous information or invasion of privacy. Please limit letters to 350 words or fewer. A name and phone number must be included for verification purposes. Phone numbers will not be published. Address letters to: ACU Box 27892 Abilene, TX 79609 E-mail letters to: optimist@acu.edu

or even the only minority in the room. Researchers have proven the importance of having a diverse school environment where people feel comfortable to be who they are, unapologetically. According to the American Council on Education, “Education within a diverse setting prepares students to become good citizens in an increasingly complex, pluralistic society; it fosters mutual respect and teamwork; and it helps build communities whose members are judged by the quality of their character and their contributions.” (acenet 2018) I had the incredible opportunity to be an RCL in Gardner Hall my sophomore year. I had the opportunity to culturally educate my hall about the various cultures on campus. I encouraged them to branch out, learn and celebrate diversity. A friend and I put togeth-

THE

er a all hall event for Gardner Hall on what it is like to be a black woman. We held it this past February in honor of Black History Month. We took this opportunity to speak up and build a platform for open and honest conversation from everyone. We shared our experiences, as well as educated attendees on the hardships we experienced growing up as black individuals. We also talked about what black history stands for and why it’s important, including what you should and should not say as a white individual. I firmly believe that this event created conversation and education, and may have been the first of its kind for many of the students present. Ignorance and discrimination is lack of education or experience with people who are different than you. My friend and I were able to use our role as leaders as a platform for awareness and understanding. Additionally, I became a part of the Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) shortly after beginning my freshman year. It is not only important for mi-

nority students to find a place to fit in, but also a place to be represented, advocated for and heard. Being a part of an organization that speaks up about issues minority students face has taught me plenty about stepping out of my comfort zone and speaking out. If you spend four or more years in college and only interact with people that look like you and have the same culture as you, you’re doing something wrong. College should be about celebrating diversity. Personally, meeting so many people that have completely different backgrounds than me has contributed to my own growth. It is vital that we stand together to make sure all voices are heard, especially the minority voices. Our goal should be to make ACU more diverse and inclusive over time, for all people. While my experience as a black female is different than anyone else’s, I hope that reading this has shared some of my perspective. Being involved has helped me to find my niche, and I encourage others to do the same.

O PTI M I ST

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Friday, October 12, 2018

Features| Page 11

DIPLOMAS & RINGS

Ward brings enthusiasm and goals to new AD position LAUREN FRANCO EDITOR IN CHIEF

“We had a motto at Murray State: That each student athlete leave the university with a championship ring on one hand and a diploma in the other. I have that very same goal for every Wildcat.” Allen Ward took over as the ninth athletics director over ACU Sports on June 16, and began his duties on Aug. 6. Growing up, Ward played football and basketball, but only had two collegiate offers. He said he was smart enough to recognize his 5’9 stature and realize it was wise to use his brain rather than his body, and went to get a business administration degree at William Jewel College. Ward started his career at the University of North Texas and worked there for 15 years, his last seven as senior associate athletics director. While at UNT, Ward said he was in a position of growth, and given the opportunity to assist in the oversight of classification change, new facility construction and the addition of sports. “I’ve been very fortunate in my career to be blessed by some amazing opportunities,” Ward said. “There were a lot of things going on in their athletics program, and I got to be part of that.” Ward was offered the opportunity to be the new athletics director at Murray State in 2005 and stayed for 13 years. “It’s a unique program,” he said. It’s one that has an incredible history in men’s

basketball. They’ve won 41 championships.” While Ward was athletics director, the Racers participated in a cumulative 29 NCAA tournaments – six men’s basketball, three volleyball and three soccer. The teams earned 39 Ohio Valley Conference championships. “I was blessed with an incredible group of coaches who knew what they were doing,” Ward said. “It’s very much a family. We were blessed with a lot of success.” One of his top priorities at Murray State was his commitment to Title IX and gender equity, meaning both the men’s and women’s sports programs have fair and equal treatment, and do not face discrimination based on gender. “We didn’t sacrifice the competitiveness in any way,” Ward said. “I did what I thought was right, and it paid off. We treated them the same way and gave them an equal chance. It’s federal law, but it’s also common sense and compassion.” Days after Ward left MSU, so did their former president, Bob Davies. “I can’t speculate on anything like that. I felt good about where my career was at Murray State, and where the program was. It reaffirmed me – it’s time for a challenge,” Ward said. Ward said one similarity between the two programs – Murray State and ACU – is the passion in the programs. “There is good in both, just different good. “If people don’t love

Photo by NICHOLAS CROMWELL | CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER your university and bleed purple, its really hard to build something special, even when you’re winning. When you have passion for the program, it sustains.” Though Ward was impressed with the facilities, people and teams, he said he felt called to ACU throughout the whole process. For Ward, the process has been a “God thing” since he accepted the position at Murray State, but the culture and community at ACU was different.

RATES AS LOW AS

“Throughout the entire process, I felt like there was a fit, like I was already connected to people,” Ward said. “It’s much more intentional. It’s open because we have that calling and purpose. To be a Christ-centered environment is what we’re all about,” Ward said. Of the things Ward said he could bring to the table, his passion for growing the programs and instilling a culture of sustainability is the most important. The aspects of sustainability include having a sound program in finances and leadership and protecting athletics while also looking out for the best of the institution. With the completion of three new facilities on campus – Anthony Field at Wildcat Stadium, the Hutton Jones tennis facility and the new golf practice field called, “The Jim,” Ward said he can start putting the other pieces together. From a sports perspective, Ward said other pieces include providing tools for the success of all student athletes and working on a strategic plan that includes staffing, an operating budget and a more competitive edge. “Our commitment has to equal our expectations. That is critical. It won’t happen overnight, but we’re working on a strategic plan,” Ward said. Ward said one of the unique challenges for ACU sports is the integration of Christ in every aspect.

“We embrace that,” Ward said. “It’s who we are. We believe we’re doing this for a higher cause and purpose, and those are the rewards we’re going to be blessed with,” Ward said. For coaches, Ward said he’s encouraging them to find their niche, including recruiting methods and confidence in competition. He used women’s basketball head coach Julie Goodenough as an example. “She’s found her niche. She knows the kids she’s going to recruit, she has a competitive edge, she’s created a difficulty for other schools to prepare for matchups and she’s created a Christ- centered environment to grow kids spiritually,” Ward said. Football at ACU is difficult, Ward said, but he commended head football coach Adam Dorrel for having exceptional patience through the growing process. Through it all, Ward said he is most excited to get to know the rest of the people and campus history. “It’s been great getting to know all of them and feeling like I’ve known them my whole life, when I’ve only known for six weeks,” Ward said. “It makes me feel like I made the right decision coming here.” Ward said he looks forward to embracing the challenges,and having vulnerability to know how to get where they want to go. “To make it all happen, it takes everything,” Ward said. “It’s about how we can use

athletics to impact ACU and take it to a completely different level, which is what ACU Athletics can do if done right.” Of his long term goals, Ward sarcastically said he was greedy for wanting to pursue the highest excellence in every aspect of the ACU athletics experience. “If you’re running the right kind of program you’re going to be able to emphasize all three – academics, athletics and spirituality. It’s an entire package for me, I don’t want one or the other,” Ward said. Ward said his family is excited about the new transition, though his son is going to college at Murray State. His wife, Sharon, and daughter, Nicole, moved to Texas on Sept. 20. “They know what led me here and they’re a part of that,” Ward said. Two months into the position, Ward said he still looks forward to seeing all of the athletes participate, get to know students outside of athletics and learn more about campus history. “I have so much to learn before I can provide a sustainability plan, what we have to do to put the pieces in place,” Ward said. “I’m excited for the next few years, seeing everything come together and seeing the impact it’s making on the university. “We’re here to make a difference. If we keep our focus on ACU and the institution and what we’re all about and what we’re here to do, everything will work out right. We’ll do some very special things here.”

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Page 12 | Sports

Friday, October 12, 2018

FEATURE

BATTLING IN THE TRENCHES Chambers breaks through as a defensive leader

MAX PRESTON SPORTS DIRECTOR

During the ACU football games, a name that students and fans most likely hear a lot over the loudspeaker while on defense is “Jeremiah Chambers”. Chambers, a junior linebacker for the Wildcat defense, was recruited from Vista Ridge High School in 2015. He said he started playing the game of football when he was a youth. “My dad coached me when I was young in the Pop Warner league, around 6 or 7 years old, but I ended up loving it and it was always the No. 1 sport I played,” Chambers said. He was on the varsity team in high school, starting his sophomore year and through senior year. In his junior season, he was awarded district newcomer of the year and was named to the second all-district team. He had an impressive senior year, making 150 total tackles and was named an allstate honorable mention by the Associated Press. Aside from his individual accolades, Chambers’ high school team made the playoffs his junior year and ended the season with an 8-3 record. In his senior season, however, their team went 12-3 and made it to the state semi-final. FOOTBALL

Jeremiah Chambers has taken on a bigger role for the Wildcat defense this season, being the leading tackler on the team.

Chambers said he wasn’t highly recruited until his senior year, though. “I started getting a lot more offers,” Chambers said, “then I came on a visit here and ended up loving it.” Transitioning to the collegiate level was hard at first for Chambers, as he needed to adjust to new players and coaches. He made the adjustment, however, and has found passion for the game of football in his new team.

Defensive coordinator Tremaine Jackson was one of the adjustments Chambers had to make once he was a new hire for his sophomore year in the 2017 season. Coming into the new job, Jackson said he took notice in Chambers’ skill. “We noticed he had some talent, we noticed some plays he made as a true freshman,” Jackson said. “He had some abilities to help us in what we wanted to get done defensively.”

In his freshman year, Chambers appeared in seven games and made 20 total tackles. He was then promoted sophomore year to a starting middle linebacker job alongside the team’s career tackles record-holder, Sam Denmark. Chambers improved his tackle total during the 2017 season to 50. As Denmark graduated last year, Chambers stepped into the role of replacing his strong production on defense. Through six games

this year, he’s done just that, as he already shattered his tackle total from last season with 63 so far this year. The Cedar Park native said he’s enjoyed taking on a bigger role for the team this year. “I love every bit of it, the love of the game, love for the game it keeps me going and keeps me driven,” Chambers said Although his numbers have been a big topic this year, Jackson said he means much more to the team than just statistics. “In what we do, our mike linebacker, the defense goes through him,” Jackson said, “We were looking for a guy that can go sideline to sideline, and he brings that element. He’s also a thumper; he likes to go hit it.” With five games left in the season, Chambers said he has some goals in mind for the team. “We want to be the best defense in the conference and keep striving for that goal,” Chambers said. “We just need to keep a strong mentality and do the best we can.” Chambers will play in front of a Homecoming crowd Saturday against Nicholls, and will face Southeastern Louisiana, Northwestern State, Sam Houston State and Central Arkansas for the final four games.

Wildcats welcome No. 11 Nicholls for Homecoming matchup MAX PRESTON SPORTS DIRECTOR

The football team looks to end a three-game losing streak this Saturday as they host FCS No. 11 Nicholls State to Wildcat Stadium for Homecoming. ACU comes into the game with a 2-4 overall record and is 1-3 in Southland play. Nicholls State is 4-2 overall and 3-1 in conference after its 28-10 victory over Northwestern State last week. Nicholls’ only conference loss was to McNeese, 20-10, in their first Southland game of the year. Since then, the Colonels defeated Sam Houston 27-7, Lamar 50-27 and

Northwestern State 28-10. The Colonels also had an upset victory over Big 12 opponent Kansas, taking them down 26-23 in overtime. Head coach Adam Dorrel said Nicholls will be a tough matchup for Homecoming. “They’re very similar to McNeese in the fact that their football program is predicated around being great on defense,” Dorrel said. “The team is very fundamentally sound and they have a lot of respect for what they’re doing.” Coming into the game, Nicholls’ defense ranks second in the conference with 21.5 points given up per game and 334 yards given up per game. Unlike the offense

ACU saw from McNeese last week, the Colonels rank fourth overall in with 430.2 yards per game. They also fall just five yards short of Lamar for the most rushing yards per game, boasting a number of 221.5. Nicholls has used a four-man running back by committee system so far this season and has even seen positive rushing production from their starting quarterback, junior Chase Fourcade. Five different backs, including Fourcade, have rushed for over 200 yards this year. Junior running back Kendall Bussey is the only one to break 300 yards with 314 total. Combined, the

team has rushed for 1,329 yards and 12 touchdowns. Defensively, junior linebacker Evan Veron and junior defensive lineman Sully Laiche have been disruptive in the backfield this season. Veron has fought his way to 13 tackles for a loss and six sacks, while Laiche has made 10.5 tackles for a loss and 4.5 sacks. The Wildcats rank second offensively in yards per game with 465.8. Redshirt sophomore quarterback Luke Anthony has lead the charge with 1790 passing yards in six games. Redshirt junior running back Tracy James and junior transfer running back Billy McCrary have com-

bined for 791 of the 978 rushing yards. On the other side of the ball, ACU ranks fourth overall in yards allowed per game with 385.5. Junior linebacker Jeremiah Chambers has made the most stops for the Wildcats with 63 tackles. He’s also totaled 7.5 tackles for a loss and two sacks. This matchup will be the second between the two teams. ACU will try to even the series a one win a piece after Nicholls won last year’s game 29-20. The game is scheduled for 2:30 p.m., which will be ACU’s first afternoon start of the year. Coverage can be seen on ESPN3 or heard on 98.1 FM.

STANDINGS Volleyball Team

Ovrl. Div.

SFA UCA SHSU ACU McNeese UNO Lamar TAMU-CC HBU NWSU UIW Nicholls SELU

19-2 15-4 12-5 7-10 5-15 10-12 6-11 4-15 9-11 6-10 4-13 3-17 1-17

Soccer

Team

Ovrl.

HBU UCA Lamar McNeese ACU SELU TAMU-CC UIW SFA SHSU NWSU Nicholls

7-5-1 10-3-1 8-3-2 9-5-1 8-4-1 5-4-3 5-4-3 2-8-1 3-6-2 2-8-3 7-7 2-11

6-0 5-1 4-1 4-1 3-2 4-3 3-3 3-3 2-4 2-4 2-5 1-6 0-6

Div. 5-0-1 5-1 4-0-2 3-2-1 3-2-1 2-2-2 2-2-2 2-3-1 1-3-2 1-3-2 1-5 0-6

Football

Team

Ovrl.

McNeese UIW Nicholls UCA SHSU SELU NWSU ACU SFA HBU Lamar

5-1 3-2 4-2 3-2 3-2 2-4 2-3 2-4 1-3 1-4 1-4

Div. 4-0 3-0 3-1 2-1 2-1 2-2 1-2 1-3 1-4 0-3 0-3

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Football

Chambers Junior linebacker Jeremiah Chambers’ 16 tackles against McNeese Saturday gave him 63 tackles on the year, passing his previous season total of 50. Chambers still has five games left this season to shatter his tackle count from last year. He also has 7.5 tackles for a loss and two sacks. The football team next welcomes Nicholls State Saturday at 2:30 p.m. for Homecoming.

Volleyball

FOOTBALL MATCHUP PREVIEW 2018 SEASON

ABILENE CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY

Walker

30.3

POINTS PER GAME

28.25

978

RUSHING YARDS

2404

1817

PASSING YARDS

2427

30.7 POINTS ALLOWED PG 25.17

(2–4)

MAX PRESTON SPORTS DIRECTOR

RACHEL POE ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR

I don’t know what to think of the Wildcats after they hung with McNeese, the now ninth-ranked team in FCS. Yeah, sure, McNeese isn’t too talented on the offensive side of the ball, but the fact that our offense didn’t get worn out by their top-tier defense is amazing. We were three points shy of a huge upset. This week, however, brings a different story. Nicholls State ranks only one spot lower than McNeese defensively in terms of yards allowed per game and points allowed per game. Unlike McNeese though, the Colonels rank fourth in yards per game offensively. ACU will have to deal with a talented defense and a fairly good offense at the same time. I think both defenses get tired with two unpredictable and talented offenses f iring at them. I see Nicholls winning in a wild shootout game.

Last Saturday, the Wildcats fell 21-24 to McNeese, now ranked the ninth team. It was such an upsetting loss, only losing by three points. This week we will face Nicholls State for the second time ever. The f irst game was played last year at Thibodaux, Louisiana. The Wildcats fell 29-20. However, Nicholls lost to McNeese by 10 points this season. Nicholls has already beaten Kansas in OT 26-23, Sam Houston 27-2 and Lamar 50-27. ACU will have to deal with a highly ranked offensive and defensive team this Saturday. However, it is Homecoming weekend here in Abilene, and the atmosphere and crowd will be loud and proud, cheering their Wildcats to victory. It will be a close and tiring game. It will all come down to which offensive team can outsmart the other’s defense.

FINAL SCORE: ACU 31 NSU 41

FINAL SCORE: ACU 21 NSU 24

CARSON WRIGHT SPORTS REPORTER

The Wildcats have been as consistent as an elevator the past couple weeks. Lots of ups and downs. However, there are plenty of positives that seem capable of sticking. The offense refused to back down again McNeese’s defense, one of the best in FCS. The Cats have hung with every team they’ve played, but one aspect of the game that is holding them back is their special teams. Too often, there will be a big return that sets the opponent up with good f ield position, putting the defense in a bad spot. Expect a hard fought Homecoming game and ACU’s f irst made f ield goal in more than a month.

FINAL SCORE: ACU 24 NSU 28

NICHOLLS STATE UNIVERSITY (4–2)

LEXI KIRGAN

Senior middle blocker Lauren Walker was a big help in the volleyball team’s 3-2 set victory over Houston Baptist Tuesday. She led her team with 17 kills in the game and also earned five blocks. ACU is now 4-1 in conference and 7-10 overall. Walker and the Wildcats were scheduled to go to Louisiana to face New Orleans Thursday evening.

Cross Country

SPORTS REPORTER

This weekend the Wildcats take on Nicholls State for the Homecoming game showdown. The Wildcats are 2-4 while Nicholls is 4-2. So far, Nicholls has had a pretty successful season, beating Kansas in overtime 26-23 as well as Sam Houston 27-7. The Wildcats have struggled the past couple of games and are currently on a three-game losing streak. The Wildcats lost to McNease last week, but it was a hard fought game that really came down to the end. They only lost by 3 points whereas Nicholls lost by 10 points when they played McNease. It will be a close game but with the atmosphere and the big crowd that will be present this weekend due to Homecoming, the Wildcats will amp up their play and have a chance at beating Nicholls.

FINAL SCORE: ACU 27 NSU 24

Graham

Junior Carnley Graham showed out well for the women’s cross country team as she took first place individually in the Incarnate Word Invitational last Saturday. Graham finished with a time of 22 minutes and one second. Her team also took first place overall with three other Wildcats, finishing in the top 10. Both the men and women’s team will be back on the trail Saturday morning as they participate in the Bill Libby invitational in Abilene.

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