Wai-Kun Yearbook Vol. 98

Midwestern WAI-KUN State Vol. 98

E V O LV E 2019-2020

ORGANIZATIONS ACADEMICS STUDENT LIFE SPORTS INDEX

Editor-In-Chief: Cortney Wood Assistant Editor: Brendan Wynne Managing Editor: Greta Gottschalk Adviser: Dr. Jim Sernoe

EVOLVE Midwestern State University | 3410 Taft Blvd | Wichita Falls, Texas 76308 | President Suzanne Shipley | Vol. 98

The Mustangs celebrate a point score against Texas Women’s University on Nov. 9 photo by: bridget reilly

STUDENTS ENGAGED The students who make up the dozens of orgs on campus fill the classes that give Midwestern its identity. Students contribute to the campus through classes but also through their commitment to one another.

Sometimes there will be a mishap like the snarky remarks on social media during the snow days in February or the countless Chartwell subtweets, but ultimately these folks care about the students’ wellbeing and the atmosphere on campus.

As we transition to different phases in life, we evolve with those around us and build our own paths to become individuals who will impact communities all over the world, wherever we decide to land.

ROARING APPLAUSE Friends, food, fun. Anything to remind us that the world doesn’t revolve around work or school or stress. Students’ connections outside their routines often become a second home in student orgs.

Some spend hours debating issues to work toward solutions with the SGA. Others host incredible multi-cultural events year-round to celebrate the diverse, colorful cultures that bring a little piece of home to so many students on campus. And the fit and flare of PRIDE drag shows aren’t anything short of fabulous.

Hours invested in an organization leave an etch on our memories that will never be forgotten.

We evolve into better, more bold versions of ourselves than we ever thought possible.

Wai-Kun On one of the few snow days of Spring 2020, Wichitan photograhers Christian Oseguera, Colin Stevenson, Bridget Reilly and Jordan Breedlove spent time capturing the moments. photo by: cole sheriff During the Monday meetings, the Wichitan staff gathered to plan out the next editon of the student-produced paper.

Almost the entire senior staffers took the social media class, and Stephen Gomez, Alyssa Mitchell, Kristin Silva and Cortney Wood took the opportunity to dress up for Halloween in Fall 2019. photo by: Dr. Mitzi Lewis Celebrating the end of production week, Wichitan staffers, Amos Perkins, Kristin Silva, Taylor Anderson, Taylor Henderson and Bridget Reilly won trivia night at the Wichita Falls Brewing Company weekly trivia event.

Wichitan and Wai-Kun staffers came together to spend time outside covering the campus to enjoy time with one another as the Fall 2019 semester came to a close. photo by: colin stevenson

Depite the sudden shift to online learning, the students on the Wichitan did not take a break. While students were sent home for safety, the staff put out four editions of the Wichitan, which were digitally exclusive.

They continue to gather stories that mattered to the campus through Zoom, Skype and Facetime for interviews.

They pioneered the hashtags #PhysicallySeparate and #DigitallyTogether

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a re c ord in the making

design by: cortney wood

M

By Cortney Wood

ost students come to college expecting to write papers for classes, but a few join student media and work for the school paper and write, record and take pictures for the students.

The students at MSU Texas can trust to get campus, Wichita Falls and national news takes from the student media organizations on campus.

These award-winning groups include the school newspaper, the Wichitan, the school yearbook, the Wai-Kun, and the student broadcast outlet MNG Media.

Throughout the year, the students on these staffs cover breaking news pertaining to campus as well as spend time getting to know the students they interview.

“Student media is incredibly important because it makes me feel like what I’m doing actually matters,” Wichitan Managing Editor Amos Perkins said. “Whether it’s seeing an event I went to in the paper or seeing myself or my organization in the yearbook, student media makes students feel like their time at MSU actually mattered.”

Students from across the campus are welcomed to join student media so that the dozens of student organizations on campus are covered by the diverse people all throughout the university.

How did you continue to document MSU during the pandemic?

Senior staffers discuss what it’s like documenting during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“When MSU officials called it Spring Break that we weren’t coming back, I had no idea how we were going to complete the book, but it didn’t sink in until May got closer. And trying to complete a yearbook documenting the year when no students were on campus, sports were canceled, and everything changed in March? I gave up honestly. We didn’t fiinish until Fall 2020, but we got it DONE.”

“I didn’t even know how to continue with a project like the yearbook. We had spent so long trying to navigate the administrative logistics, that when everything simply paused, I felt like it had slipped through my fingers. And to a large degree it did. I think it’s something I’ll always have bittersweet memories about.”

“My passions for The Wichitan are what kept encouraging me to continue through the hard days. Being in news or just the media in general, there are always hard days, but with Covid, it was just so much harder because there was even more pressure to be perfect. We had our mistakes, but we owned them and were better after them.

Work, during the school year, was slow as my job changed from helping others in the computer lab to scanning old Wichitan newspapers to place online for the website. Finding work in media has been a long struggle. For the most part, I take pictures for fun and record stuff to stay in touch. This is the time to find work where you can and hold out until it’s over. Never give up in the face of hardship. There’s always a door open.

Cortney Wood, Wai-Kun Editor-in-Chief

Brendan Wynne, Wai-Kun Assistant Editor

Kristin Silva, Wichitan Editor-in-Chief

Stephen Gomez, MNG Producer

Wai-Kun

Students a part of the musical Little Shop of Horrors rehearse a scene. Feb. 2020. photo by: bridget reilly Assistant professor and choreographer of Little Shop of Hororrs Morgan Mallory directs students to different sections of the stage. Feb. 2020. photo by: bridget reilly Rebekah Gardner plays 80 year old Maxine in Death Tax. Nov. 2019. photo by: emma brown Hannah Kelly, Denush Viddanapathirana, and Ilka Megee put their acting skills to work in the campus production of The Mousetrap. Nov. 2019. photo by: emma brown Nicole Smalls shows stong emotion in Death Tax. Nov. 2019. photo by: emma brown Rebekah Gardner practices her sleuthing skills in a murder mystery play, The Mousetrap. Nov. 2019. photo by: emma brown Cody Beck and Ilka Megee band together to solve the mystery of The Mousetrap.

Nov. 2019. photo by: emma brown

09-10 design by: greta gottschalk

Behind the scenes of “Little Shop of Horrors”

R

By Emily Beaman

ehearsals for MSU’s 2020 spring musical “Little Shop of Horrors” had been in full swing since the first week of the semester. MSU typically puts on a musical every other year.

Rehearsals were split into three parts: Acting and blocking led by theater professor Sally Story, choreography led by theater professor Morgan Mallory and music led by music professor Dr. Paul Dease.

According to director Sally Story, the set, along with puppets used in the show, had

been in the process of construction since the beginning of the semester under the direction of Eric Koger, Department Chair and professor.

Story believes the impact of being involved with a theatre show encompasses the students, relationships formed and a greater campus community.

“I truly hope this will bring more attention to the Musical Theatre program we are trying to build here at MSU Texas,” Story said. “I would love to see us do more musicals here and offer more opportunities for our students.”

BEYOND

CLASSROOMS We value interdisciplinary engagement and are involved in as many campus activities as possible; but our studies are the priority. With deans who have played at Carnegie Hall and world-renowned respiratory therapy professors who converse with officials from the World Health Organization, students learn from some of the best professors in the United States.

We come to MSU Texas for the education, both in class and out. We explore our chosen fields and the differences between them. Our studies matter, and how we pursue them has a lasting impact greater than we might realize.

With an atmosphere of collaboration, we evolve the very idea of what a classroom is.

Wai-Kun

building upward New health science building offers students state-of-the-art opportunities

A

By Dallas Wabbington

s the university welcomed returning students and newcomers to the Fall 2019 semester, the campus opened the new health sciences building of Centennial Hall to its students. This building holds all the departments of the Robert D. & Carol Gunn College of Health Sciences and Human Services, including dental hygiene and radiology, in one area.

The planning of Centennial Hall began in 2017. The building was originally planned to open in March 2019, but after a few months of delay, the college opened its doors just in time for fall registration. The building was originally supposed to be finished in a year, but due to an increase in rainfall, construction was interrupted, causing the opening to delay.

President Suzanne Shipley said, “We anticipated people to move in during spring break, use the rest of the spring to get established, teach summer classes and then start in the fall. We started moving in a week before school started in the fall. That was about a four-month delay.”

While the delay became an inconvenience to the students, it provided the funds necessary to pay for the horse sculptures instead of the university needing to find donors to fund them.

“The good news is we were able to invest that money Sitting down during a tour, Dean of the Gunn College of Health Sciences Jeff Killion talks with a reporter from the Wichitan newspaper. Sept. 13, 2019. photo by: colin stevenson Demonstrating the “Anatomage” table, Dean of the Gunn College of Health Sciences Jeff Killion manipulates the digital model of the human body. Sept. 13, 2019. photo by: bridget reilly Touring the new radiology lab, visitors try out the new desks lined up in the classroom section.

Sept. 13, 2019. photo by: colin stevenson

longer, that we would have to pay for a finished product, and the money that was invested made extra profit, which gave us that beautiful landscaping at that horse sculpture,” Shipley said. “The delays helped us hold the money longer so we made money on it and we could pay for that landscape.”

Melody Chandler, director of simulations for the college of health science, explained how popular simulations in health science have become.

“In 2014, National Council of State Boards of Nursing did a study where they found out that simulation and being in a human clinical environment is exactly the same,” Chandler said. “This is where the big push for simulation [took place].

It doubled the student’s senses without hiring any more faculty.”

The purpose of the simulations is to provide students with realistic scenarios that they may come across in their fields.

Lindsey Craig, radiology junior, said she viewed the new equipment as an opportunity for students like her. Instead of relying solely on a traditional classroom, students can be hands-on.

“With this new equipment, it allows us to actually get to use our hands and get to see how the process actually works.

It isn’t until we go into the labs that all the information actually makes sense.”

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Beginning a tour, Dean of the Gunn College of Health Sciences Jeff Killion introduces Simulation Center director Melody Chandler. Sept. 13, 2019.

Students were able to work with the state of the art equipment for the Fall 2019 and Spring 2020 semesters befroe loaning of material to United Regional when the coronavirus pandemic hit. photos by: colin stevenson

The MSU Texas Respiratory program had the privilege of receiving new equipment when Centennial Hall finished construction in Fall 2019. Concerned that this new equipment, including two new ventilators, was “sitting idle” in its department, Provost James Johnston and Respiratory Program Chair Jennifer Anderson contacted United Regional officials to offer ventilators and personal protective equipment.

“I was thinking about it for our department [respiratory care] when we couldn’t have classes anymore. We already have these ventilators that we wouldn’t be using and they would be helpful for the hospital so that they could use them if there was a need,” Anderson said.

Wai-Kun

graduating during unique circumstances

Because of the pandemic, the December 2019 graduates were the most recent students to complete an in-person ceremony. The campus shut down for precautionary measures mid-spring semester in 2020. With no end in sight for the spread of the coronavirus, May 2020 graduates experienced the first virtual graduation ceremony held for MSU. This ceremony was livestreamed and later uploaded to YouTube.

15-16 design by: greta gottschalk Devon Doggett, Master of Education, and defensive end on the football team, shakes hands with Board of Regents member. photo by: cole sheriff Dr. Matthew Lutrell conducts the band and choir through the Star-Spangled Banner. Dec 14, 2019. photo by: colin stevenson Bachelor of Science students walking back to their seats. photo by: cole sheriff

Graduates move their tassles to the left to signify their graduation. Dec 14, 2019. photo by: cole sheriff Head football coach Bill Maskill poses with graduating members of his team. photo by: cole sheriff

President Suzanne Shipley introduces the commencement speaker at graduation 2019. photo by: cole sheriff

Graduates cheer and wave to their families out of appreciation for their support.

Dec 14, 2019. photo by: colin stevenson

OUTSIDE CAMPUS As important as school is, our life doesn’t begin and end on this campus. Students have jobs and families. Sometimes we have commitments that compete for our attention as fiercely as our studies. Students’ lives can be spread thin, so it’s important to take note of the things we dedicate our focus to.

Some students dance. Others play recreational sports, others splatter paint everywhere and make fantastic works of art.

We can figure out what inspires us just by looking into things outside our normal. We evolve our interests when exposed to different opportunities, but it’s easy for us to feel inadequate when our life isn’t campus-focused. Everything we do matters, and students can be empowered by the moments they spend for themselves.

Wai-Kun

05.01.2020

Dear Mustangs, Congratulations to each of you as you near completion of the semester. I am proud of the resolve and strength of our Mustangs family, especially in the weeks following Spring Break.

For many of you, the close of this semester will bring about the completion of your degree. I want to congratulate each of you on this milestone in your academic journey.

Your safety continues to be our number one priority. As we continue to receive information regarding how we safely return to our daily lives, it appears that a rapid rollout of gatherings of large groups is unlikely for our previously planned commencement ceremony on August 1.

However, it is important to celebrate your accomplishments.

Plans for a virtual celebration this May are in development.

Additionally, we want to extend an invitation to our May 2020 graduates to participate in a separate December 2020 commencement ceremony. Please continue to monitor your email as we finalize the details of these events.

Again, congratulations to each of you. You will soon join the proud alumni network of MSU Texas.

Sincerely, Dr. Suzanne Shipley MSU Texas President

19-20 design by: greta gottschalk

public health disaster issued in Texas In March 2020, students left campus for spring break but did not realize they would not return to campus to complete the remainder of the semester. Texas issued a “shelter in place� order in which people were directed to stay at home when possible.

questions & opinions varied in an uncertain time

Wai-Kun

Taking a snow day W

By Taylor Anderson

ichita Falls endured a snowstorm that that left many students thankful for a much-needed break in February 2020.

Classes and surrounding school districts closed down mid-month due to the intense amount of ice and snow. However, this didn’t stop students from enjoying their day off.

Steven Posey, marketing sophomore, and Zach Zamora, business management sophomore, decided to start their break off with a snowball fight outside their apartment.

“Snowball fights and hanging out. It doesn’t snow a lot in Texas, so you have to enjoy it while you can,” Posey said.

Making most of the rare occasion, Zamora enjoys his friend’s presence. “[I] just really have a good time and spend the time with my friends enjoying each other’s company,” Zamora said.

Kerry Gage, education junior, said she likes the snow and has a new desire to move north to experience more snow.

“Honestly, when I was looking outside my window last night, I was waiting for the snow and it was finally sticking. So I went out there with a lot of people just in the snow. I just like it. I want to move up north now,” Gage said.

While some students used the day for fun adventures, Makeala McCoy, athletic training senior, utilized her time off to focus on school work.

“I was so happy we had the snow day because I could catch up on all my work and I could be a real productive student,” McCoy said.

The snow brought cold and new records.

Sheppard Air Force Base recorded Wichita Falls received 2.4 inches, breaking the standing record of 1.7 inches on Feb. 5, 1964.

21-22 design by: greta gottschalk

The mustangs in front of Centennial Hall sit under a blanket of snow as flakes continue to fall. Feb. 6, 2020. photo by: colin stevenson The freshman mustang prepares to jump into the water among the ice and melting snow. Feb. 6, 2020. photo by: colin stevenson Marketing sophomore Steven Posey gets ready to throw a snowball. Feb. 5, 2020.

A lone leaf hangs onto a branch despite the snow and ice weighing it down. Feb. 6, 2020. photo by: colin stevenson

“Mass communication senior Christian Oseguera snaps a shot in the heavily falling snow. Feb. 6. photo by: colin stevenson “A warning sign sits in the rapidly falling snow as icicles hang from its bottom. Feb. 6. photo by: colin stevenson “A miniature snowman melts in the warm sun. Feb. 6. photo by: colin stevenson

GRIND DON’T STOP From placing at the UCA, or Universal Cheerleaders Association, national championships or winning Hotter’n Hell Hundred bike race again, our athletes constantly prove how extraordinary our students are.

The pressure to win and keep up grades is nothing compared to the pressure they put on themselves to succeed. The privilege of playing the sport they love at the college level makes every 6 a.m. spring training and lost hour of sleep worth it in the end while bringing in wins for the university.

While these commitments are no small feat, the celebrated victories and the humble losses evolve althletes into those with the discipline to overcome challenges beyond the turf.

Wai-Kun

sta mpede Dodging an opponent, running back Quinton Childs sprints toward the end zone on Nov. 9, 2019. photo by: colin stevenson Running the sideline. tight end Matt Jones sprints off as wide receiver Tyrique Edwards blocks a defender on Nov. 9, 2019. photo by: bridget reilly Winding up for a powerful kick, kicker Jaron Imbriani lines up for a field goal on Nov. 9, 2019. photo by: colin stevenson Tackling an opposing player, defensive back Chris Hawkins attempts to stop the opposing team from getting a touchdown on Oct. 19, 2019. photo by: colin stevenson Celebrating a touchdown, tight end Matt Jones lifts up running back Lazarus Fisher on Nov. 9, 2019. photo by: bridget reilly Finishing the third quarter, wide receiver Anthony Tennison and running back Lazarus Fisher celebrate a touchdown on Oct. 5, 2019. photo by: bridget reilly Bumping chests in the air, running back Lazarus Fisher and wide recever Anthony Tennison celebrate another touchown. photo by: bridget reilly

toward to the endzone

25-26 design by: cortney wood

Senior Keith Domino’s pre-game routine/ritual “First I wake up and jam my gospel music, then head to walk throughs. After walk through, the offensive line goes and eats at our local diner Pioneer. After brunch, I go take me a nap or at least try to. After that, it’s lock in time. Pre-game I only listen to Houston rappers because the music just reminds me of home and gets me spiritually ready for the game!”

Mass communiation junior and center back Khalil Finley tries to tackle an opposing player who is holding the ball. Sep 21.

Criminal Justice sophomore and wide receiver Kylan Harrison catches the ball for a touchdown.

Oct 19. photos by: colin stevenson.

Moment with

Bill Maskill

How do you motivate your players during difficult moments?

The big thing is that you show them that you care about them. That they can trust and believe in you.

What will these men take away from this program?

I hope they’ll take away structure and discipline and hardwork pays off.

What was is like preparing to handle the pandemic in the fall?

This is the first time I’ve not been around a football game since seventh grade. My dad was a coach, and I was on the bus when I was probably third grade. I don’t have any hobbies, and this is all I’ve ever done, and I’m looking for things to do.

Wai-Kun

Mass communication senior Rand outside hitter Rockelle Gholson leaps to spike the ball over the heads of TWU blockers. Nov. 9. photo by: bridget reilly Education junior Sarah Glawe celebrates a scored point after UTPB hits the ball out-of-bounds. Oct 11. photo by: colin stevenson Kinesiology sophomore and middle blocker Lauren Honeycutt taps the ball over the net to score a point against Texas A&M Commerce. Sept. 27. photo by: bridget reilly Biology junior and defensive specalist Audry Lopez stops the spike from TWU with a dig to her teammates. Nov. 9. photo by: bridget reilly

Moment with

Jaycie Fuller How has this team set itself apart from others?

They set from the beginning what the expectations were, how we would treat one another. I love the comradery on this team.

What should other students know about the team?

We keep students in mind when we are working because we do our best to be a good name on campus. People to look up to.

What will you take away form being on this team?

These women have sculpted me not only as a better player but how to be a more responsible woman by holding me accountable.

27-28 design by: cortney wood

rallying towards playoffs

Volleyball team secured playoff spot on Senior Day

V

By Amos Perkins

olleyball clinched a playoff berth with a 3-1 victory over Cameron University on Senior Day, Saturday, Nov. 16.

The team finished fourth in its division with a 3-7 record, qualifying for the Lone Star Conference Tournament. This was the team’s first tournament under head coach Valerie Armstrong and its first playoff berth since 2016.

The only active Mustang who was also a part of that 2016 playoff team is Sarah Glawe (No. 10), setter and education senior.

“One of our goals for the beginning of the season was to make the conference tournament, so it feels very surreal to see what we’ve worked so hard for actually happen,” Rachel Howes (No. 18), right-side hitter and business management freshman, said.

The match honored the team’s three seniors: Glawe, Sarah Eakin (No. 11), middle blocker and nursing senior, and Rockelle Gholson (No. 14), outside hitter and mass communication senior. Eakin’s seven blocks in the match

bumped her Mustang career total blocks to 322 (the second-most in team history). Gholson led the ‘Stangs on offense with 15 kills. Glawe, who is seventh in all-time career assists, had 26 assists and three service aces. “[The seniors] have been leaders for this team and have shaped this team to what it is today.

We could not have gone to the conference tournament without their leadership,” Howes said. “They’ve all been role models and mentors to me, and I’m very thankful for all they’ve done for me.”

With the exception of the ‘Stangs first set win, 25-13, the match was a back-and-forth affair. The team fell 25-27 to the Aggies in the second set, despite six kills by Lauren Honeycutt (No. 19), middle blocker and kinesiology sophomore. The team then won the last two sets 25-18 and 25-21 with Honeycutt delivering the final set-winner off an assist from Glawe.

“We were solid,” Armstrong said. “We did what we had to do to get the win.”

The Mustanges celebrate a point scored by mass communication sophomore and outside hitter Taylor Anderson against Texas Woman’s University. Nov. 8. photo by: bridget reilly The Mustangs celebrate a point score against Texas Women’s University on Nov. 9 photo by: bridget reilly Kinesiology sophomore and middle blocker Lauren Honeycutt puts up finger guns to congratulate computer science freshman and middle blocker Savanna Dodson for scoring a point against Western New Mexico. Dec. 10. photo by: bridget reilly

Wai-Kun Ben van Winkle, exercise physiology graduate, rides within pack during men’s ‘B’ road race at College Station on Feb. 16. photo by sharome burton “Bianca Zuleta (left), geosciences sophomore, Brandi Hobson (center), sports administration graduate, and Cortnie Grauel, finance and accounting senior accelerate towards the finish line during women’s ‘C’ criterium in College Station on Feb. 16. photo by sharome burton Dominique Shepherd placed fourth in women’s C results from a cold Oklahoma morning in the criterium. photo by: sharome burton Pablo Cesar Cruz rounds the a corner at the 2019 Hotter’N Hell Hundred bike race. photo contributed by: MSU Cycling Pavle Kalaba won the Men’s A Crit at Texas A&M on Feb. 15, 2020. photo by: sharome burton

Fast

FACTS

What students should know about the MSU cylcing team

Won the 41st national championship

10 countries are represented on the team

14th straight conference championship

29-30 design by: cortney wood

Moment with

Bridget Reilly

How did it feel to have your season cut short?

I was upset because this was my first season back, but it has given us a chance to get us to get some real good base training underneath us.

What do you want students to know about the team?

We are the most diverse and most winningest team on campus What was is like coming back from your injury?

It’s tough when you know where you can be at and not be there, you start to think: is all this time and effort worth it? How long is it going to take to be back at my peak? But you take it week by week and you can tell how much you improve just in a week.

Wai-Kun

re a c hing

Exercise physiology junior and goalkeeper Taylor Lampe saves a goal in the 78th minute of play. Nov. 7. photo by: bridget reilly Finance senior and midfielder Hikaruhito Meike goes for a powerful kick.

Sep 26. photo by: colin stevenson.

Undecided junior and midfielder Julian Barajas kicks the ball upfield to kinesiology senior and forward Sergio Lara against St. Edward’s University. Nov. 7. photo by: bridget reilly

toward higher goals

31-32 design by: cortney wood

Undecided sophomore and defender Adam Conway heads the ball into the goal against West Texas A&M University. Sept. 28. photo by: bridget reilly Freshman and midfielder Luis Pacheco kicks the ball with style.

Sept. 26. photo by: colin stevenson.

Mathematics junior and forward Trevor Amann manages to escape Oklahoma Christian University’s defense to take a shot at goals.

Sept. 26. photo by: bridget reilly Finance senior and midfielder Hikaruhito Meike goes for a powerful kick. Sept. 26. photo by: colin stevenson.

Moment with

Dylan Burke

What’s the most memorable part of playing at MSU Texas?

The most memorable part of playing at MSU Texas is definitely not one specific time. It is every time I stepped on the field with the jersey on.

What should students know about the team?

Our desire to win and never accepting anything less made us hungry 24/7 and pushed us to be better than the rest and this is why the MSU men’s soccer team’s win percentage speaks for itself.

How did being on the team impact you?

Being a part of a team sets you up for the future. It molds you into an adult and helps you through life with the skills you attain from being within.

Wai-Kun

Best in the field

Pre-dentistry sophomore and midfielder Senna Garcia prepares to kick the ball to a teammate and keep it away from an opponent. Nov 9. photo by: colin stevenson Radiology junior and midfielder Kelly Cannistra jumps to head the ball. Nov 7. photo by: colin stevenson Radiology junior and midfielder Kelly Cannistra wins the header in a long kick from the Texas A&M Commerce goalkeeper. Nov. 7. photo by: bridget reilly Business junior and forward Sara Machado jumps to kick the ball. Nov 9. photo by: colin stevenson.

General business freshman and defender Nicole Marsolek heads the ball. Nov 7. photo by: colin stevenson Business junior and forward Valentina Carvajal dives for a kick to keep it away from an opponent. Nov 7. photo by: colin stevenson Pre-physical therapy freshman Alyssa Salinas keeps the ball away from an opponent. Nov 9. photo by: colin stevenson Kinesiology senior and defender Imani Morlock stops the ball with her head. Nov 9. photo by: colin stevenson

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Senior Spotlight “My favorite soccer memory is definitely scoring the winning penalty kick to win the conference over Commerce my sophomore year.�

- Sarah Stewart

Following the cardboard boat race, Redwine Honors Program students carry back their distorted boat. Oct 18. photo by: colin stevenson Dipping to the floor, exercise physiology freshman Eurtis Downs dances in front of the crowd at Mustangs Madness. Oct 14. photo by: colin stevenson Criminal Justice sophomore and defensive back Chris Hawkins tackles an opposing player from Texas A&M Kingsville. Oct 19. photo by: colin stevenson Applied arts and sciences senior Chris Smith watches the bonfire with his daughter. Oct 18. photo by: colin stevenson Social work junior and baton twirler Alex Maggard performs during the homecoming football game against TAMUK. Oct. 19. photo by: cole sheriff

design by: brendan wynne and cortney wood

Jose Torres and Makaela McCoy stand together after being named 2019 homecoming king and queen. Oct 19. photo by colin stevenson MSU cheer squad waves a large flag emblazoned with an MSU logo after the Mustangs score a touchdown. Oct 19. photo by colin stevenson.

there’s no place

LIKE HOME A week jam-packed with games, activities and tons of school spirit, Cinematic Homeoming earned a 100% rating from students by the time the credits rolled.

The Mustangs crushed the homecoming game in a 70—35 win against Texas A&M Kingsville, and everyone (besides the geese) cheered when American Society of Mechanical Engineers and Engineers for a Sustainable World won the cardboard box race on Sikes Lake.

It was hard to tell what got students more lit between the phenomenal lipsynch battles or the fan-favorite bond fire, but the student section was definitely something anyone around Memorial Stadim heard as the Mustangs stampeded towards the endzone for the win.

Our sports teams get better every season and student involvement

Wai-Kun

Fast

FACTS Elijah Lee played D1 at Pepperdine University.

Ola Ayodele is the only player on the team not from the United States. He’s from England.

The shortest player on the team is Evan McCarthy at 5’10.

The tallest player on the team is Ben Davis II at 6’7.

The most common majors on the team are Politcal Science (2), Kinesiology (2), Mass Communcation (2), Criminal Justice (2) and Business (2).

Only two players are from Texas. Others come from Tennessee, Florida, Utah, Michigan, Louisiana and even England.

The Mustangs haven’t moved past the Quarterfinals in the conference tournament since the 2015-2016 season.

Applied arts and sciences senior and guard D’Monta Harris jumps for a lay-up, reaching past all blocks. Feb. 20. photo by: colin stevenson Business sophomore and guard Trae Jones reaches for a successful layup as his momentum carries him out-of-bounds against Texas A&M University International. Jan. 2. photo by: bridget reilly

37-38 design by: cortney wood Mass communication senior and guard Elijah Lee lunges for a lay-up with pressure from a UAFS player. Feb. 20. photo by: colin stevenson General studies senior and forward Ola Ayodele guard leaps for a slam dunk passed by mass communication senior and guard Elijah Lee. Feb. 2. photo by: bridget reilly Mass communication senior and guard Darius Thompson shoots a 2-point as opponents watch on in shock. Feb. 20. photo by: colin stevenson Kinesiology sophomore and guard Derrick Herrick jumps for a dunk at the Mustang Madness dunk competition. Oct 14. photo by: bridget reilly

Moment with

OLA AYODELE

How was this season different from previous years?

New coaches bring in a new enviornment for the team, so that’s how it was a different experience for everyone.

How would you describe your time on the team?

Being a part of Midwestern State basketball for the last three years has been an incredible experiend for me.

What’s a moment that has stuck with you?

A moment that sucks with all of us was beating UT-Tyler. That helped click as a team and led us to making the playoffs.

Wai-Kun

Stronger together Women’s team continues to honor late head basketball coach by highlighting her legacy

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Wichitan Staff omen’s basketball head coach Noel Johnson passed away Tuesday, June 9, following her 14-month battle with stage four ovarian cancer.

Johnson began her fight to defeat the disease on April 19, 2019, starting with the first of six rounds of chemotherapy. Throughout her journey, constant and consistent messages of love and support poured in as she suited up to tackle this obstacle.

Mustangs who worked under Coach J reflected on the impact she left on them.

“Coach J is the most influential person I have had the privilege to know,” new women’s head basketball coach Chris Reay said. “Working for her the past 10 years has been a true blessing. Starting out she was my mentor, but became one of my best friends and eventually my family.”

Reay took over for Johnson after she stepped away to focus on her battle, and that strength and determination was always present throughout her life.

Johnson spent 12 years as head coach of the Mustangs, and she was crowned MSU women’s basketball “most winningest coach” after overcoming Texas A&M Kingsville 72-66 on Dec. 19, 2017. During her tenure at MSU, her team accomplished four Lone Star Conference quarterfinal appearances, two

appearances at NCAA II South Central Quarterfinals (4th, 2013-2014 season; 2nd, 2014-2015 season), and won the NCAA II South Central Quarterfinals during the 2012-2013 season.

Prior to her leadership at MSU Texas, Johnson was the assistant coach at Texas State from 1998 to 2007 and assistant coach at North Texas from 2007 to 2008.

No matter where Johnson stepped foot, she always pushed people to be the best versions of themselves, former player Skyler Warrick said.

“If there was ever a step I was scared to take, she was the guiding hand on my back, pushing me outside of my comfort zone and into the unknown,” Warrick said.

“She is one of the strongest female role-models I’ve ever had, and she has shaped me into the woman I am becoming.”

Player Profile: Courtney Kerr

Kaki Simpson

Frances King

Kerr has earned a spot on the Lone Star Conference Commissioner’s Honor Roll for three semesters.

Simpson has played in 29 games at guard and averaged 8.3 points per game with a season-high of 19 points in a win over Western Texas.

In her redshirt freshman year, King earned 1.1 assist/ turnover ratio was 10th best mark in the league.

39-40 design by: cortney wood Mass communication junior and guard Bri Wingfield escapes UT-Tyler’s defense to attempt a 2-pointer.

Feb. 15. photo by: bridget reilly Respiratory therapy senior and forward Erin Alexander goes for a layup against Dixie State. Nov. 9. photo by: bridget reilly Kinesiology redshirt freshman Frances King dribbles along the court towards the opponent’s goal. Feb 1. photo by: colin stevenson Marketing senior and guard Liz Cathcart goes for a layup between two Texas A&M University International defenders. Feb. 1. photo by: bridget reilly Senior Mica Schneider takes on Westminster for the 2019 season opener on Nov. 8, 2019, at D.L. Ligon Coliseum. photo by: bridget reilly Health science junior and forward Hannah Reynolds reaches to receive a pass from a teammate. Nov 9. photo by: colin stevenson

spot

LIGHT After Head Coach Noel Johnson stepped away from the season to focus on her battle with cancer, Assistant women’s basketball coach Chris Reay led the women for the remainder of the season.

The team finished the season by landing in the Lone Star Conference post-season tournament.

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AND they’re off...

Sports and leisure freshman Taylor Carr hands the baton off to nursing freshman Sydney Tucker in the 4x400m relay. photo by: bridget reilly Finance freshman Peyton Lewis leaps into the triple jump pit and increases her personal record by 12 cm, posting 10.88 meters.

Feb. 22. photo by: bridget reilly Athletic training junior Katie Till runs 800 meters in the distance medley relay event. Feb. 21. photo by: colin stevenson

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Nursing junior Amerhyst Agurrie and education freshman Elizabeth Butzke lead a pack of Mustangs within the first kilometer of the 5k Red River Shootout. Oct. 10. photo by: bridget reilly Nursing senior Nicole Coetzer and “That was hot!” nursing junior Delany Locke pours water over her head at the Red River Shoot Out. Oct 10. photo by: bridget reilly Nursing senior Gemma Gonzalez surges to the front of a pack during the Red River Shootout 5k.

Oct. 10. photo by: bridget reilly

Moment with

Gemma Gonzalez What will you take away from being on the team?

This team has shown so much love to me. I love seeing how everyone is there for each other, not only at practice but outside of it, too.

What should students know about this team?

This team is slowly expanding. Right now it’s a young team with lots of talent, and it’s just going to keep on growing.

What makes this team different from previous years?

This season was different than last year, because I got a lot closer to the girls. I got injured last year and barely went to practice since I was stuck in a boot, so I didn’t get to interact with them as much.

Wai-Kun Psychology sophomore and pitcher Mattye Tyler forces a strike for a UT Tyler player. March 8, 2020. photo by: bridget reilly Special education senior and outfielder Lauren Lindgren lobs the ball infield to her teammates against Claredon College. Oct 15, 2019. photo by: bridget reilly Undecided sophomore and center Bailey Wamsley takes a swing and lands the ball towards the end of the outfield. Oct 15, 2019. photo by: bridget reilly Sophomore catcher Bailey Wamsley swings and hits the pitch from Regis (Colo.) at the MSU softball field on Feb 16, 2020. photo by: colin stevenson

Moment with

Caycee Griffen

Freshman Year Griffen started all 38 games during her first year as a Mustang and hit .234 with 12 runs.

Sophomore Year Griffen made 40 starts at shortstop, hitting .200 with five HRs and 18 RBIs. Junior Year Griffen oppened the season with hits in each of the first four games and went 2-for-3 with a solo home run.

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Way out in t h e f i e l d

Psychology sophomore and pitcher Mattye Tyler forces a strike for a UT Tyler player.

March 8, 2020. photo by: bridget reilly Dental hygiene sophomore and pitcher Kathryn Wells pitches against Claredon College. Oct 15, 2019. photo by: bridget reilly Psychology senior and outfielder Kelsey Eropkin runs home from third base. Feb 16, 2020. photo by: colin stevenson

season

CUT SHORT When we first heard about the news, we were just going to be gone for a couple weeks so it wasn’t too bad. We were still upset, but we were hopeful that we would be back. A couple days into being home, another week of no softball was added and then everyone became a little discouraged. Not long after that, they canceled the whole season and everyone was devastated. It was a scary time, but everyone worked so hard in the fall, and we felt like it had gone to waste. Every day we get to practice and go to school is a good day because no one knows what’s going to happen. Knowing this, the team has a lot of passion and fight this year and whenever we do get to play it’ll be something special.

Daylan Inkman, Infield Radiology Sophomore

EVOLVE College isn’t always a four year push, so take in the moments while here. The “we proudly serve Starbucks” will sometimes be out of coffee despite being open. The re-built Moffett study floor will remain the place to cram last minute before that 8 a.m. exam. The geese will always cross the road when you have only three minutes to book it to PY. That Hardin bell tower will insessently ring before, during and after class.

Life is about growing and adapting, and as tempting it is to stay in comfort-zones, we have to challenge ourselves. People came before us and they will come after. It’s our job to continue to grow and adapt. Move around and find out what interests you and what you can do, and never be afraid to evolve.

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Preseident Geroge H.W. Bush (1924–2018) Americans mourned the news of President George H.W. Bush’s death on Nov. 30, 2018.

Bush Sr. served as the 41st president of the United States from 1989–1993.

National media outlets televised his funural on Dec. 5, 2018, and this was the first time all living presidents and their spouses were in the same place together.

The $60 million construction project of Centennial Hall was As the Texas midterm election drew more and more scheduled for completion in Summer 2019, and it made its attention across the nation, Sen. Ted Cruz, R–Texas, kept debut in September 2019. his senate seat when challenged by Rep. Beto O’Rourke, D–Texas.

President Donald Trump nominated Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court in July 2018, and after months of scrutiny that led to Dr. Christine Blasey Ford testifying in front of Congress to oppose the confirmation accusing Kavanaugh of sexual assault, Kavanaugh was confirmed to the highest court in the land on Oct. 6, 2020.

The Fain Fine Arts College partnered with various departments for the Sustainable Arts projects for the inaugeral Earth Day celebration.

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18-19 YEAR IN REVIEW Leadership Transition In Spring 2019, the Wai-Kun Yearbook made the switch from the student development office to the Mass Communication Department.

Editors Miranda Schnitker and Alexis Osborne worked on the 2018–2019 yearbook before handing the project over to Cortney Wood as Editor-in-Chief and Brendan Wynne as Assistant Editor. With that transition, this books represents the time the transition takes to produce something in a new capacity.

Millions of 2000s ‘tweens were screaming when their Following the 2016 election, Special Counsel Robert hearthrobs returned to preform the Jonas Brothers band Mueller investigated potential Russian interference with the with their newsest album June 7, 2019, Happiness Begins. American election system. In Spring 2019, the redacted report was released for public consumption.

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, former American actress, married Prince Harry May 19, 2018, in St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle in the United Kingdom.

The conclusion of the 11-year legacy that is the Marvel Cinematic Universe broke records with the debut of “Avengers: Endgame” on April 26, 2019.

Millions of people raved on Twitter about the postapocolyptic Netflix horror film “Bird Box“ released on Dec. 14, 2018. averaging nearly 4 million U.S. viewers the first 10 days it was released.

People couldn’t go anywhere without hearing Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper belt “Shallow” after the romantic mucial dramatic remake of the cinematic classic A Star is Born on Oct. 5, 2018.

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YEAR IN

REVIEW

#COVID19

The world was shaken when the COVID-19 pandemic caused people to isolate across the globe in early 2020.

Lizzo came out of nowhere with her smash hit “Truth Hurt” to earn a Grammy.

The war of streaming service ramped up with the introduction of Disney+.

Friction between Boomers, Millennials and Gen Z widened with this snarky comeback.

The internet was abuzz for the Shane Dawson x Jeffree Star docu-series and the debut of the Conspiracy palette in Fall 2019.

At age 18, Billie Eilish is the youngest person to sweep the Grammys with best new artist, album of the year, song of the year and record of the year.

Frozen II debuted in November 2019, just six years after the phenomenon swept the globe and people could not “Let it Go.” IMDb reports Frozen II generated more than $1.4 billion worldwide.

Amid the global climate change battle, Greta Thunberg, 15, spoke out and became the Times Magazine’s Person of the Year for her climate change efforts.

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MAMBA MENTALITY After a tragic helicopter crash in the early morning of Jan. 26 in Calabasas, news outlets began reporting the death of NBA legend Koby Bryant. Bryant was one of nine people killed in the crash including his 13-year-old daughter and the families of teammates.

Internationally, people mourned the lose of one of the greatest players in the NBA. Several athletes and celebrities cried at the Byant’s memorial service at the Staples Center in California—the home of Bryant’s NBA team, the Lakers.

As hearts broke at the loss of a life too soon, people untitled to carry on Bryant’s passion with #MambaMentality.

Financeman Jeffrey Epstein was charged with sex trafficking when he committed suicide in his jail cell on Aug. 10.

R. Kelly faced 13 new federal charges of sexual abuse.

At the peak of the #MeToo movement, former esteemed director Harvey Weinstein was found guilty of third-degree rape and first-degree criminal sexual acts.

Across the country of Australia, fires have been burning since June 2019. At least 27 million acres have burned in this fire season, and 1.25 billion animals were killed in the blazes.

President Donald Trump became the third president in American history to be impeached. On Dec. 18, 2019, the House of Representatives filed charges of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress. The Senate acquitted Trump of both charges on Feb. 5. 2020.

E V O L V E

Staff: Bridget Reilly, Colin Stevenson, Jordan Breedlove, Christian Oseguera, Cole Sheriff, Dallas Wabbington, Taylor Anderson, Emily Beaman, Amos Perkins, Sharome Burton Special Thanks To: Emma Brown, Dr. Mitzi Lewis, MSU Cycling, Jess Hulett, Dr. Keith Lamb, Dr. Martin Camacho, Lisa Thames