Week of Welcome 2018

Fall 20 18

A University Press publication August27, 2018

New Term, New Beginning

August 27, 2018 hen I look back at what I wrote for the UP’s Week of Welcome issue last year, I obviously had no idea what the coming year would bring with Hurricane Harvey just a few weeks later. In the last 12 months, so many of us overcame insurmountable odds, dealt with conditions beyond our control, and yet grew stronger because of these experiences.

During the past five years I have had the honor of serving as your president, I have never been prouder of our community than I am right now.

Along with this growth of spirit, came an advancement of campus in many forms. The Setzer Student Center and the Quadrangle reopened, far surpassing any expectations we had.

The Science and Technology Building continued its construction at a rapid rate and is scheduled for a November opening.

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Three new deans and a new athletics director joined the LU family; please join me in welcoming Lynn Maurer to the College of Arts and Sciences, Dan French to the College of Business, Arne Almquist to the Mary and John Gray Library and Marco Born to the Athletics Department.

Additionally, new academic programs emerged, residence halls and classrooms updated, research from both faculty and students increased while retention and recruitment initiatives took shape.

All of these happenings are impressive in their own right but would not be possible without all of our students, faculty and staff. The effort each of us put in to our academics or our employment, whether studying for an exam, participating in an internship or working to beat a deadline, we all come together to make Lamar University what it is.

What an exciting time to be a Cardinal.

I will end with my thanks to each

of you for your support as I deal with the passing of LU’s First Lady and my wife of 45 years, Nancy.

It will be a tough road ahead but I look forward to continuing the work we have begun at our university.

Sincerely, Ken Evans President

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Barnes & Noble @ Lamar University Bookstore Hours Week of August 13-18 Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Saturday: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Week of August 19-25 Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. -6 p.m.

Saturday: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.

President Kenneth Evans gives the 2018 convocation address in the Montagne Center, Aug. 21.

UP photo | Cassandra Jenkins

(VIP night – freshman please come for goodies!)

Week of August 26 - September 1 Sunday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Monday-Thursday: 7:30 a.m. - 7 p.m. (first week of classes)

Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Saturday: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Week of September 2-8 Sunday: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Monday, Labor Day: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Tuesday: September 4:

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Regular semester hours return

Monday- Thursday: 7:45 - 5 p.m.

Friday: 7:45 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

All eligible financial aid may be used in the bookstore August 1 – September 24.

Order your books on our website and pick up at your convenience!

Visit us online at lamar.bncollege.com facebook.com/lamarbookstore

Instagram - lamarbookstore

Convocation 2018 Evans praises campus reaction to setbacks

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amar University President Kenneth Evans praised the Lamar University community for making it through the 2017-18 school year despite dealing with Hurricane Harvey, a January snow storm and a March tornado. Evans spoke at the annual convocation, Aug. 21, in the Montagne Center.

Three days after Evans’ 2017 convocation speech, Harvey hit Beaumont and changed the course of much of what the university had planned.

“We can’t go through this event today without talking about last fall,” he said. “Indeed, we did have a significant rain event — some of the estimates of the actual rain accumulation are difficult to accurately secure because the rain gauges actually broke.

“When we gathered here for this event last year, we were on the road to record enrollment — we were cooking. At first, we didn’t think (Harvey) would hit us, but then it bounced out to the Gulf and

sat on us for 36 freaking hours. So, we decided to move students into the residential halls, so they didn’t have to move in during the rain, and we had about 1,900 students who stayed with us and weathered out the storm.”

The administrative staff expected a drop of about 1,500 students in enrollment numbers due to Harvey, Evans said, because of the stress of the damage to houses, cars and families.

“If there is one good thing that came out of this, it’s that we (only) lost a little over 500 students,” he said. “Compared to the estimate of 1,500, that was pretty good. They told us that last year was going to be a bad year and we knew it, but luckily we had recently updated our disaster protocols which helped exponentially in the campus surviving the storm.”

The university received about $500,000 in donations from the community after the storm which Convocation | see page 18

Welcome Back Cardinals New semester brings new opportunities

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ummer may be coming to an end, but that doesn’t mean the year is

over.

The Lamar University campus is brimming with activities to welcome students — new and returning — to campus.

Even the faculty are excited and ready to serve up intellectual morsels — whether the students are ready or not!

WoW! is here to guide all students to the different organizations, departments and events taking place during the

fall 2018 semester.

Get involved on campus and in the community.

There are numerous opportunities to do so all semester long.

So here’s hoping you’ll find that classroom on the first attempt, that your textbooks won’t break the bank, that you’ll ace your classes and the prospect of excitement that comes with the beginning of a new semester never wanes.

Division of Student Engagement LU’s home for events, support, fun

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which is a specially trained group of professional staff members from several university departments with mental health, student engagement, law enforcement and residence life expertise. Their motto is, “See something, say something,” which encourages the vigilance of all Lamar community members to do the right thing and be responsible in reporting it to administrators.

The overall goal of the Division of Student Engagement is to create a safe and healthy student environment in order to promote the success of students.

The resources provided by student engagement include everything from the spirit and traditions celebrated by Lamar to campus dining services.

Ultimately, Student Engagement is committed to students.

For more information, call 409-8808458, or visit www.students.lamar. edu/student-engagement.

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he Division of Student Engagement is the student-centered department of Lamar University.

Not only does it house several main departments on campus, but guides students during the life-changing experience of college.

The division oversees the following departments: Career & Professional Development, Dean of Students, Housing & Residence Life, New Student & Leadership Programs, Recreational Sports, Setzer Student Center, the Student Health Center and the Lamar University Police Department.

Many campus events are sponsored by the division, including the Week of Welcome celebrations that begin Aug. 26 and continue until Sept. 1.

The division prides itself in providing support for students, specifically with the Critical Assessment Response and Evaluation Team (CARE),

Lamar Shuttle he Lamar University Police Department and the Disability Resource Center have partnered to introduce a mobility-accessible shuttle on campus. accessible chair lift, three spots for someone who is using a chair or scooter, and they can ride it with their friends — it’s not just for students with disabilities, it’s for everybody. Monday through Friday from 8 to 5, (the shuttle) runs all over campus. Students can call the number under parking and transportation to have the shuttle pick them up, and download the Lamar University app and see the schedules for the shuttle. Students can also call in off-peak hours and the shuttle will come pick them up.” For shuttle service, call 409-880-7551.

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LUPD

Financial Aid

heLamar University Police Department’s motto is “Be Aware, Be Alert, Be Safe.” The department engages the community to keep our campus safe. LUPD maintains three levels of safety, security and enforcement. The second level of security is the Campus Safety Officers, or CSOs. These are non-commissioned officers employed by LUPD, who respond to non-criminal incidents. For questions, call 409-880-8307.

he cost of higher education may be more than some families can afford and Lamar works hard to ease the stress on qualifying students by assisting them with financial aid. The financial aid office is located in 200 Wimberly Building.

The staff provides an informational brochure that includes a list of websites needed to complete the financial aid application process, and they are always ready to help students with their financial aid questions.

To contact the financial aid department, call 409-880-7011.

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Health Center nrolled students can receive medical care, psychological care and health education services through the Student Health Center which operates by appointment. The clinic accepts students with and without insurance, and charges a $10 co-pay for each visit. Physicians or nurse practitioners can write prescriptions for students, and many of those medications can be picked up at the Health Center’s in-house pharmacy.

For more information, visit lamar.edu/ Healthcenter.

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Undergraduate Advising Center amar University’s Advising Center is designed to help freshmen and sophomores engage with trained professionals to create a balanced schedule.

“The Undergraduate Advising,”

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is a publication of the

UNIVERSITY PRESS Copy compiled by Cassandra Jenkins and Olivia Malick Advertising by Eloisa Lopez ©2018

Cover photo of the Setzer Student Center reopening.

Daniel Bartlett, executive director of student achievement and retention, said. “What we mean by that is that every student has a designated adviser based on their major.

“These advisers are connected to departments. They understand what degree plans are, what the departmental expectations are — they understand who the faculty

are and what the events and organizations are.

The advising center is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

During peak registration, advisors may be available for an appointment after 5 p.m. by request.

For more information, call 409880-8822 or visit www.lamar.edu/ advising.

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Residence Life iving on campus is a beneficial experience that can broaden your perspective and help you discover who you are during your college years.

There are many benefits to living on campus which include diverse programs and services offered in the evenings. Students who reside on campus strengthen their independence and forge a strong sense of identity.

For more, call 409-880-8550.

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Student Organizations ou are part of “Cardinal Nation” so make the most of your college experience by getting involved and joining a student organization.

Lamar University has a variety of ways to get involved outside of class, with more than 200 registered stu-

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Greek Life

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amar Greek Life gives students who join a chance to be involved in their community through service projects while simultaneously networking and building life-long friendships.

There are 20 sororities and fraternities at Lamar: -Alpha Chi Omega Sorority -Alpha Delta Pi Sorority -Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority -Alpha Omega Epsilon Sorority -Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity -Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity -Delta Sigma Theta Sorority

dent organizations, including departmental and professional groups, honor societies, mutual interest groups, religious organizations, service-oriented groups, fraternities, sororities, spirit organizations and sports clubs.

The underlying purpose of student organizations is to contribute to the classroom by providing support

-Kappa Alpha Order Fraternity -Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity -Kappa Delta Chi Sorority -Omega Psi Phi Fraternity -Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity -Phi Iota Alpha Fraternity -Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity -Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority -Sigma Nu Fraternity -Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity -Sigma Sigma Rho Sorority -Zeta Phi Beta Sorority -Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority For more information, call 409-880-1734, or visit www.lamar.edu/students/ student-engagement/greeklife/index.html

groups for students with common needs and interests, improving leadership and communication skills, allowing students to apply learned concepts in a real setting, teaching self discipline, initiative and responsibility.

To keep up with information — and become involved, visit OrgSync or the Lamar University website.

Student Government he Lamar University Student Government Association offers a voice to students.

Any enrolled student may participate in SGA which contributes to a well-rounded student environment.

There are several committees available to students, such as, academic affairs, community outreach, environmental affairs, public relations, student organizations, and/or student services standing committees as well as being able to serve other Lamar advisory committees.

Senior Madison Marino (pictured) is the SGA president for the 2018-19 school year.

For more, call 409-880-7775, or visit their office in 266 Setzer Student Center.

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Cardinals Activities Board

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he Cardinals Activities Board hosts free events for students to enjoy fun experiences outside of the typical learning environment. “CAB is the student programming board for LU,” Brandie VanZanden, associate director of student involvement, said. “It is composed of an executive board that research, plan, and run all the events. We also have a chance for all students to join CAB on our volunteer board. These students help run the events and gain volunteer hours by working our office and event.” CAB’s main mission is to provide a fun and engaging atmosphere that provides and encourages campus spirit and life, VanZanden said. For more information, visit their office in 270 Setzer Student The 2017 Homecoming Block Party featured a variety of activities, such as this bungee frame.

Center or call 409-880-8723.

Career Center he Center for Career and Professional Development provides students with many different types of career and professional development opportunities. Students can meet with dedicated career consultants to discuss career options and industry trends to guide students on a path to success. For more, call 409880-8878, or visit lamar.edu/ career-andtesting-services. The Center for Career and Professional Development is located in 102 Galloway Business Building, and can be found on LinkedIn and followed on social media, @LamarUnivCPD.

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Gray Library he Mary and John Gray Library is open Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. until 11:45 p.m. It opens Friday at 7:30 a.m. and closes at 5:45 p.m. Saturday hours are 10 a.m. to 6:45 p.m., and Sunday hours are 2 p.m. to 11:45 p.m.

There is a reference area in room 105 on the first floor, where a reference librarian is available to help locate a book or article, and to help students with research for a paper. Interlibrary loans is a service offered when the library does not have an item that is needed for research. Students can request a particular item from the reserve desk on the second floor, and the service is also available online through the library’s home page. For more information, contact the reference desk at 409-880-7264.

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Lobby Starbucks Hours: Monday-Thursday: 7 a.m.-9 p.m.

Friday: 7 a.m.-5 p.m.

Closed Saturday Sunday: 4 p.m.-9 p.m.

from a study abroad program to Shandong University in China

Star Services tarting college is an exciting new journey and as with any endeavor, guidance is key to reaching goals and aspirations. Lamar University understands the importance of providing support for students to attain their college degrees and offers a variety of programs to help students succeed. STARS programs are free to all Lamar students. For more information, call 409-880-7201 or visit lamar.edu/ stars.

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Cardinal Communities

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ardinal Communities leads students on path to success. Cardinal Communities is a program that incorporated the Freshman Interest Groups and learning communities on campus. For information, visit lamar.edu/cardinalcommunities.

More information can also be found on their Instagram page, lucardinal community.

Healthy Cards amar University’s peer education program, Healthy Cards, was founded on the idea that students can be highly effective in educating their peers, by influencing their attitudes and beliefs, especially concerning health related issues. Students who are interested in becoming peer educators should go to the Health Center’s website at lamar.edu/healthcenter for applications and information or call the Lamar Student Health Center at 409-880-8466.

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Writing Center Study Abroad lobal Classroom Study Abroad program fosters cultural awareness, growth. Incoming students have many opportunities to enhance their education and receive scholarships through experience and travel with the Lamar University Study Abroad pro-

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gram, available to all interested Students. Students seeking information can visit the study abroad office in 108 Herman Iles Building at the John Gray Center, check out the study abroad social media pages on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. For more information call 409-880-7060 or visit, www.lamar.edu/studyabroad/index.html.

amar University’s Writing Centers guide students through the writing process. Their services include brainstorming, organizing, content revising, grammar usage and editing.

The Writing Center in Gray Library is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Writing Center in Morris Hall is open Monday through Thursday from no one to 6 p.m., and Friday from noon to 3 p.m. For more information, call 409-880-8571 or 409-880-7344, or contact Jennifer Ravey, Writing Center director, at jennifer.ravey@lamar.edu.

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Welcome to Cardinal Football “College is about discovering who you are while facing new challenges and how you overcome each obstacle.” y staff and I would like to personally welcome everyone to campus for the start of a new academic year. A new year always brings with it a great deal of excitement. For first-year students, you are entering an exciting new chapter in your life, with new challenges and a world of possibilities. For returning students, it’s an opportunity to renew friendships, and continue taking steps toward your goal of graduation.

Our coaching staff is equally excited for the start of the new academic year, which also brings about the start of another football season.

Since the 2017 season ended our young men have been working hard to build this team into the program our great fan base deserves.

College is about discovering who you are while facing new challenges

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and how you overcome each obstacle. The same can be said of football.

Last season, we entered the year with one of the nation’s youngest teams sporting 57 new players. This year we look to take huge step forward with 49 letterwinners, including 20 starters, returning for 2018.

Our university, and the whole Golden Triangle, had to deal with the impact of Hurricane Harvey last year.

Many are still recovering from Harvey’s impact, but despite all of that, you never wavered in your support of our football team. I’m honored to serve as your head coach, and I can assure you that our players will work hard to present their best both on and off the field. We have a great tradition at Lamar, and we expect our team to build upon that tradition.

Our coaching staff has high expectations for this program, but for

those to be achieved we need your help. Our greatest asset on gameday is the support of our fans, especially the students. Never underestimate your value to this staff or our players. We invite you to stand together with us as we face a daunting schedule once again this season.

We look forward to seeing you on campus, and at Provost Umphrey Stadium as we take on the Southland Conference together! #WeAreLU Sincerely, Mike Schultz Head Football Coach

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The Lamar University football team went through a season of change last year. The LU squad saw an array of new faces, not only on their team but also in their coaching staff, receiving 29 freshmen, 57 new faces and a new head coach. The LU squad struggled to adapt to the changes finishing 2-9 overall and 1-8 in conference last year. Head coach Mike Schultz said that will all change this year.

The 2018-19 season will start out with a preseason home opener against Kentucky Christian, Sept. 1. The team will make a stop in Lubbock to face Texas Tech before beginning Southland Conference play in a home game against Northwestern State, Sept 15.

“We are a bigger, stronger and faster football team,” Schultz said. “We as a staff are excited to see how that translates on the field in the upcoming month and season. I get to work with a great group of guys and we are looking to kick off the season Sept. 1.”

This year’s team will consist of 48 returners including starting quarterback Darrel Colbert Jr., wide receivers Kendrick King and Zae Giles, along with other star players Brandon Dabney, Rodney Randle Jr., and David and Daniel Crosley. Among the veterans there is a small handful of freshmen and transfers.

Schultz said he already sees a change in the athlete’s sizes and attitudes after a grueling summer session in the gym and on the field.

“Our kids are excited to be here,” he said.

“They know they are bigger, stronger and faster and they are ready to play. I see more chemistry this year and they have more energy. They know they have an opportunity to be great this year and that’s what it’s all about — making progress is everything.”

Tickets for students are free with valid ID and are available at the Montagne Center ticket office.

2018 Schedule September 1, 6 p.m.

KENTUCKY CHRISTIAN Provost Umphrey Stadium Radio: KLVI 560 AM • TV: ESPN 3 September 8, 3 p.m.

Texas Tech Lubbock Radio: KLVI 560 AM September 15, 6 p.m.

NORTHWESTERN STATE* Provost Umphrey Stadium Radio: KLVI 560 AM • TV: ESPN 3 September 22, 6 p.m.

SOUTHEASTERN LOUISIANA* HOMECOMING Provost Umphrey Stadium Radio: KLVI 560 AM • TV: ESPN 3 September 29, 3 p.m.

Nicholls State* Thibodaux, La. Radio: KLVI 560 AM October 13, 3 p.m.

INCARNATE WORD* Provost Umphrey Stadium Radio: KLVI 560 AM • TV: ESPN 3 October 20, 6 p.m.

SAM HOUSTON STATE* Provost Umphrey Stadium Radio: KLVI 560 AM • TV: ESPN 3 October 27, 3 p.m.

Stephen F. Austin* Nacogdoches Radio: KLVI 560 AM • TV: ESPN 3 November 3, 6 p.m.

Central Arkansas* Conway, Ark. Radio: KLVI 560 AM November 10, 3 p.m.

HOUSTON BAPTIST* Provost Umphrey Stadium Radio: KLVI 560 AM • TV: ESPN 3 November 17, 6 p.m.

McNeese State* Lake Charles, La. Radio: KLVI 560 AM

* denotes Southland Conference Capitals denotes LU home games

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Things to do From dining to dancing, SETX has something for all tastes

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ardinals travel from the campus to the depths of the piney woods, to the sunkissed shores of the Gulf of Mexico, and the surrounding region has something to offer for just about everyone.

In addition to its natural beauty Southeast Texas (SETX to newcomers), the area is a unique crossroad for food and culture found nowhere else in the United States. Beaumont has several museums and cultural events that are easy to go to and many are free or attractive for anyone on a budget and are close to campus.

French Cajun cuisine from across the Louisiana border set its roots here many generations ago and you will find some local favorites below — and for newcomers maybe a

Places to Dine for...

new vocabulary.

Being at the western end of the Deep South, there are several traditional eateries that focus on tried-and-true Southern staples and you’ll always find plenty of places that range from the fancy to the no-frills all over the area.

Tex-Mex has its home here, too, with strong influences from a variety of regions within Mexico, and the area is also a gateway for cuisine even further south in Central America with strong influences from Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador. Hispanic culture presents a wide-variety of flavors and dishes that are diverse and representative of many styles of preparation and presentation.

SETX is home also to a legendary musical legacy from Janis Joplin, Johnny and Edgar

MISCELLANEOUS

Crazy Cajun 2310 N. 11th St., Beaumont Floyd’s Cajun Seafood 2290 I-10 at Washington Blvd.

Larry’s French Market 3701 Pure Atlantic in Groves Vautrot’s Cajun Cuisine 13353 HWY 105 in Bevil Oaks Will T’s Seafood 517 W. Florida Ave.

Al Basha 2578 I-10 E. Frontage Rd. Frankie’s Italian Grill 105 I-10 W. Katherine & Co. 1495 Calder Monica’s 6385 Calder Pho Four Seasons 3690 College Amelia Farm & Market 8600 Dishman Rd. Daddio’s 4230 Calder Ave. Kampus Korner 4637 Rolfe Christopher Dr. Stingaree Restaurant 1295 N. Stingaree Rd., Crystal Beach

SOUTHERN

Dance the Night Away

student picks CAJUN

BBQ

TEX-MEX-HISPANIC Carmela’s 3925 Calder Ave. Tacos La Bamba 2005 Calder Carlito’s Mexican Restaurant 890 Amarillo St.

The Logon Café 6360 Calder Ave., Beaumont Fridays & Saturdays from 7 p.m.-2 a.m.

(409) 861-1709 Texas Rose Saloon 6360 Calder Ave., Beaumont Fridays & Saturdays from 7 p.m.-2 a.m.

(409) 861-1709 Madison’s 6360 Calder Ave., Beaumont Fridays & Saturdays from 7 p.m.-2 a.m.

(409) 861-1709 The Art Studio, Inc. 720 Franklin., Beaumont Fourth Saturday of the month at 7 p.m.

(409) 838-5393

Tammy’s 103 8th Ave., Nederland Monday-Friday from 7 a.m.-2 a.m., Saturdays & Sundays 10 a.m.-2 a.m.

(409) 237-5078

Thirsty’s 6360 Calder Ave., Beaumont Fridays & Saturdays from 7 p.m.-2 a.m.

(409) 861-1709

Bar Local 6358 Phelan Blvd., Beaumont Wednesday-Saturday from 4 p.m.-2 a.m.

(409) 866-2100

Mackenzie’s 6360 Calder Ave., Beaumont Fridays & Saturdays from 7 p.m.-2 a.m.

(409) 861-1709

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Tiny House BBQ Located on the LU campus Patillo’s 2775 Washington Broussard’s 2390 11th St.

John Wayne’s 6360 Phelan Blvd., Beaumont Fridays & Saturdays from 7 p.m.-2 a.m.

(409) 861-1709

Live and Loud

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Suga’s Deep South Cuisine & Jazz Bar 461 Bowie downtown Rosie’s 2306 Hazel, in Oaks Historic District Richard’s Café 1087 Magnolia Republic Chicken 1990 I-10 W.

Winter, Barbara Lynn, George Jones, Tracy Byrd to Marcia Ball and you will find some of the best live music found anywhere — and you won’t have to go to Austin or Houston just to hear it.

The University Press keeps its fingers on the pulse of what’s hot and what’s not in the area.

Follow our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, along with our website, www.lamaruniversity press.com for the latest stories and reviews for places to go and things to do. When you’re out and about, share your stories and photos with us and we’ll help you share them to the LU community.

For additional events in the area, check the Beaumont Convention and Visitors Bureau at www.beaumontcvb.com.

Volleyball New coach Kuester expects team to improve, impress

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he Lady Cardinals will start their home schedule in the Cardinal Classic Tournament against Texas Southern University, Aug. 30.

New head coach, and former LU assistant Michelle Kuester said she believes this will be a season of redemption after the team struggled to a 4-22 record last year.

“I think we are going to do some pretty impressive things this season,” she said. “I think the turnaround is going to be greater than a lot of people are anticipating.”

This year’s squad consists of five returning seniors, including star hitters Ivette Dim, Tomar Thomas and Murielle Hlavac.

Kuester said she also rounded up some power freshman includ-

ing local talent Mercedes Danrich from Ozen and outside hitter Abigale Nash from Tucson, Ariz.

“In the spring we revamped our offense and our defense completely,” Kuester said. “We have eight returners and eight new kids, so there’s quite a bit that’s going to be different this year.

“Our big thing is being able to adapt. We are putting in multiple defensive options to have more answers than the team we are playing. We are teaching our kids to be able to recognize a change that needs to be made and having a system in place where we can make the change effectively.”

Kuester said she has high hopes for the 2018 season, including making the Southland Conference Tournament, bring-

ing the student population and community back into McDonald Gym and having an outstanding season the seniors can be proud of.

“We look very different from what the fans have seen in the past,” she said. “We are playing with way more energy, way more competitive nature and I think that they will be able to see that. I think the games are going to have more buzz around them, because my kids are so competitive and so energetic right now.

“The gym is incredibly loud and they want to show that off to the Lamar community and prove that we are still worth coming to watch.”

For tickets, contact the Lamar ticket office at 409-880-1715, or visit lamarcardinals.com.

X-Country

Soccer amar University’s soccer team had an outstanding season in 2017-18.

The squad not only went undefeated at home but won their first Southland Conference Championship, resulting in an automatic bid to the NCAA tournament for the first time in history. LU went 10-1.

“Last year we had a really good season,” head coach Steve Holeman said.

“We definitely turned things around from the previous year and our staff worked hard to accomplish something great.”

Holeman said this year’s squad will be much different after losing several of the veteran players including goalkeeper Lucy Ashworth.

“We have 10 newcomers this year,” Holeman said. “The dynamic is going to be very different. We were picked in the pre-season poll to win the conference final again. We know we have a target on our backs and the other teams are going to through everything they have at us, so we just have to take it one game at a time, one day at time, at keep looking to improve.”

he LU Cross Country team continues to flourish as the men’s team won their fifth consecutive Southland Conference championship last year. The women’s side also saw significant improvement as they vaulted to second place in the final race.

Head coach Tony Houchin said he hopes the team can continue to lead and win titles in the upcoming year.

“We want to keep moving in the same direction,” Houchin said. “We always look to improve each year and I impress on everybody how important it is to carry the torch of traditions that the past athletes have had. You need to be very careful of complacency and always continue to work hard even when you’re at the top.”

Houchin said both teams have good dynamics this year.

“We have a little bit of everything,” he said. “We have some returners some new faces, it is a good mix.

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Holeman said some of the leaders he is expecting to rise this season include captains Macy Gloin, Amelia Fullmer and Southland Conference Player of the Year Kelso Peskin.

Holeman said his hopes for the upcoming year are for the players to perform at their best, to continue to improve and work hard.

“We want have a successful season on and off the field and that doesn’t necessarily mean winning a championship, but knowing you gave everything you have when you walk off that field. I think our girls are excited and ready to defend their title.”

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Convocation | from page 4

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was put into a “Cardinal Fund.” The university also provided credit hours to students who did community service, with more than 5,000 hours given out.

“There were 500 evacuees in the Montagne Center during the storm before The Red Cross could get here,” Evans said. “I was stunned how quickly people adapted and adjusted to the situation. It was an amazing collective display of humanity in terms of how one helped another. We simply did everything we could to reach out to our student community and let them know that we cared about them and would do whatever in order to help them.”

Evans joked about the snowfall after the hurricane, and how a tornado hit the campus on the same day as Cardinal View, the spring recruitment event.

“We were set up to have Cardinal View in the Rec Center, but it didn’t have power,” he said.

“However, we’d just opened the Setzer (Student) Center and it had reserved power, so we moved the entire event to there and cleaned up the campus as best we could — we had two flipped vehicles, the roof of the police station was ripped off and we there were windows broken from buildings being concussed — and by the beginning of Cardinal View, the campus looked pretty much as it always does.”

Evans lauded the research and studies conducted over the summer by the 2018 David J.

Beck Fellows, Sakurah Fisher and David Quispe, as well as the 2018 Presidential Fellows, Emily McCall and Amanda Warner.

Kyle Mutz, director of the Disability Resource Center, presented a video which showed how the resource center has helped students with disabilities, featuring returning and graduated students.

“The resources we offer may surprise you,” Mutz said. “Our department provides a variety of special education services, accommodations and advocacy efforts to ensure students with disabilities are given equivalent experiences as their peers.

“These resources are fundamental to our success as a university. What’s even better is that these resources are inclusive, not exclusive.”

Evans talked about the renovations of the Setzer Student Center and the Gray Library lobby.

“I must admit that it’s nice to have Starbucks coffee on campus, but more to the point, I don’t think I’ve ever seen students queued up at the library at 7:30 in the morning,” he said.

“When we had the grand opening of the Setzer Center, there was a huge crowd of students there and what was amazing was how they immediately took ownership of the center — the entire feeling on campus is different because of these new renovations.”

The new science and technology building is projected to open in November, and will be the

Members of the Cardinal Band play during the Aug. 21 convocation in the Montagne Center..

UP photo | Cassandra Jenkins

Kyle Mutz speaks about the Disability Resource Center during the Aug. 21 convocation in the Montagne Center..

UP photo | Cassandra Jenkins

first completely new academic building added to the campus in 50 years.

“It’s going to be about an 80,000 or 90,000 square feet facility,” Evans said. “It will house labs, classrooms, study space and office space.

It speaks to the tremendous need that we have to improve educational space.”

Evans concluded his speech with an emotional thanks for everyone’s condolences for his wife, First Lady Nancy Evans, who died in June of cancer.

“It was a long journey for her — she fought a valiant battle,” he said. “You need to know that I’m looking forward to this year with you and carrying on what we did together, and I thank you for everything you’ve done on behalf of the university and me and my family.”

Evans received a standing ovation as he wiped the tears from his eyes and ended his speech by wishing everyone luck in the new year.

“Throughout the past year, I witnessed the very best Lamar has to offer,” he said. “Academically, yes, but also in the ability of one student to care for another — and that’s the best part of what we do.”

For more, visit www.lamaruniversitypress.com

Aug. 27 Aug. 29

Aug. 30

Sept. 3 Sept. 4 Sept. 6

Sept. 8

Sept. 10

Sept. 11 Sept. 12

Sept. 15

Sept. 17 Sept. 22

Sept. 28 Sept. 29

Oct. 11

Oct. 13

Oct. 14

Math Flicks & Pizza “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time.” Studio Theatre Last day for graduate students to apply/pay for Dec. 2018 graduation 2019 Distinguished Alumni Awards Selection Committee Meeting Henry Rollins Travel Slideshow at the Jefferson Theatre Dogtoberfest @ Julie Rogers Theatre Oktoberfest @ Rogers Park Lutcher Theater for the Performing Arts presents: “Wizard of Oz”

Oct. 16

Oct. 20

Oct. 22

2017 Nobel Laureate in Physics, DR. KIP THORNE, along with the Lamar University academic lecture series presents The Science Behind the Movie “Interstellar,” at 7:30 p.m. in the University Theatre.

There will be a student Q&A in the Landes Auditorium from 4-5 p.m.

Beaumont Heritage Society John Jay French Museum Pumpkin Walk Touch - A - Truck @ Beaumont Civic Center Student Lecture —”Evolution of the Texas-Louisiana Boundary: In Search of the Elusive Corner”

HOMECOMING 2018 12 p.m.- 5 p.m. Big Red’s Ride Gladys City Museum 12 p.m.-5 p.m. Art Extravaganza Dishman Art Museum 12 p.m.- 5 p.m. Cardinal FanFest Plummer Lawn 2 p.m.-3 p.m. Homecoming Parade Lamar University Campus 4 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Alumni Tailgate Montagne Center 6 p.m. Cardinals vs. Southeastern Louisiana Provost Umphrey Stadium 20th Class Day Final non-payment purge after 5 p.m.

Last day to drop or withdraw without academic penalty Beaumont Walk to End Alzheimer’s @ The Event Centre

Oct. 26 Oct. 27

Oct. 30

Census day Dinosaur Day @ Texas Energy Museum Arc of Greater Beaumont Buddy Walk @ The Event Centre REDtalks presents: You Booze, You Lose — Alcohol & Consent

Nov. 2 Nov. 8 Nov. 8-11 Nov. 12

Nov. 13

Nov. 15 Nov. 16-18 Nov. 17

Nov. 19

Nov. 22 Nov. 22-23 Nov. 28 Nov. 29

Dec. 3

Dec. 4

Dec. 5-11 Dec. 8

Dec. 13

Dec. 14 Dec. 15

Dec. 24-31

Last day to drop or withdraw with academic penalty Final non-payment purge “Ghosts” University Theatre Panel Discussion — “Texas City Explosion, 1947: Lessons from Disaster to Recovery” Last day for undergraduates to apply/pay for Dec. 2018 graduation Last day for graduate students to apply/pay for Dec. 2018 graduation REDtalks presents: Critical Think in the Era of Fake News Fall and Recovery UniversityTheatre Symphony of SETX- “Pastoral Germanic Settings” @ Julie Rogers Theatre Lutcher Theater for the Perfoming Arts presents: “A Christmas Story” Turkey Trot 2018 @ The Event Centre Thanksgiving Holiday REDtalks presents: Fear and Loathing in Higher Education Holiday Eggnog with the Center for History & Culture Lutcher Theater for the Performing Arts presents: “Rock of Ages” Last MWF class day (no examinations or assignments) Last TTR class day (no examinations or assignments) Final examinations Lutcher Theater for the Performing Arts presents: “All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914” Grades are due by 1 p.m.

2018 Julie & Ben Rogers Community Service Awards Ceremony College of Arts & Sciences Commencement Ceremony Commencements College of Engineering College of Business College of Fine Arts & Communication College of Education & Human Development Winter Holiday

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Sept. 24

Oct. 2 Oct. 5-7 11-13 Oct. 8

FALL 2018 WOW!

*For complete coverage of LU Homecoming week, see the Sept. 13 issue of the UP*

Fall classes begin Welcome Picnic Last day to register for fall 2017 with late fee Escape Room: The Set Takeover scenario, “Space Calls: Infinite Horizon” Salsa at the Lake @ The Event Centre Labor Day Holiday Application for December 2018 graduation begins REDtalks presents: Cultivating Emotional Health for Physical and Intellectual Benefits 2018 Golden Triangle Heart & Stroke Walk @ The Great Lawn 5th Annual Neches River Rally at Collier’s Ferry Park Spindletop Roller Girls at Beaumont Civic Center Public Lecture: Meeting the Men Who Went Where No Man Had Gone Before REDtalks presents: How to Manage Your Time in College Census Day Last day for full refund on dropped (not withdrawn) courses Beaumont Craft Beer Fest @ The Event Centre Symphony of SETX- “New York, New York, Jazz Meets Classics” at the Julie Rogers Theatre Student Lecture —”Gulf: The Making of an American Sea”

Rec Sports offers fitness, fun for all R

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ecreational Sports provides opportunities for students to participate in the wide variety of activities, such as intramural sports clubs, group fitness, outdoor pursuits, rock climbing, aquatics and informal recreation.

All currently enrolled Lamar University students have access to the facilities and may participate in all activities.

Art Simpson, director of recreational sports, said he encourages all students to get involved in the program.

“It is essential for students to engage in recreational sports activities for their college experiences,” he said. “The program has an impact on student learning and development that include providing them with skills and abilities they will use after college.”

The Rec Sports program also has a positive impact on student satisfaction, academics and social

integration, Simpson said.

“As college students develop into future leaders, and recreational sports being the largest student employer on campus, the program values their student’s development by fostering lifelong habits of wellness, customer service, leadership opportunities, teamwork, transferable skills, dedication, and respect, are some of the many values that recreational sports can teach,” he said.

Students can learn new skills by

joining several successful club teams, such as archery and the men and women’s basketball teams.

Club archery has seven members who compete at the SouthCentral Region Outdoor Collegiate Championships, hosted by UT Austin, Texas A&M and UT Dallas.

“Out of the seven shooters for Lamar last year, six placed in their division,” Simpson said. “Five of them received first-place awards, one received second place and an-

other third.”

The men and Women’s basketball clubs also competed at the NIRSA Championship Series National basketball tournament at Ohio State University last semester.

“Both clubs represented the university extremely well,” Simpson said. “We are very proud of how they competed during the tournament.”

Rec Sports offers various activities that get the students involved on campus, develop leadership skills and build friendships, Simpson said.

“All of our clubs and intramural teams are active and do an excellent job with community service, competition and traveling,” he said.

For information, visit the Rec Sports office in the Sheila Umphrey Recreational Sports Center, or call 409-880-2306.

FALL 2018 WOW!

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WOW! FALL 2018