Access and success: MSU's mantra going into the academic
SABRINA HARRISON EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
MSU is going into the new academic year with goals to not only help students currently enrolled at MSU, but to help future Mustangs as well. This includes opening a military education center as well as a student success center.
Both the military education center and the student success center will serve as a place where students can get the information they need to succeed at MSU.
President Stacia Haynie explained how these centers will benefit both current and future mustangs.
“It will be a space that’s sort of a one-stop shop for students. Whatever your issue is, whatever your question is, you can go to that space. [And if] they can’t figure out the issue, they’re going to accompany you to whoever can help you get the answer that you need,” Haynie said.
But advice is not the only thing the campus will be able to provide to military and military dependent students.
“We also had the community partners and our donors invest in over $800,000 in scholarships,” Haynie said. “That will close the price point between the federal tuition assistance and our price point. So, it will be no cost and we can be competitive with others who are looking for the active duty students.”
These scholarships will also be
available to any students who are dependents of active-duty military members.
With the help of these new resources for students, MSU hopes to boost retention this year.
“We know that we continue to lose about one-third of our students from that freshman class and that’s just not acceptable,” Haynie said. “So we will, this year, really focus on making sure those students who have selected MSU Texas as their academic home are successful when they’re here.”
Despite not reaching the retention goal last year, MSU started this year off by hitting a new enrollment goal. This year, MSU’s enrollment has gone up from 925 to 973 full first time students. That is a 5.2% increase from Fall 2024.
“That’s the number we set for our target, so really excited that we’ve set another record class,” Haynie said.
With more students on campus, this means that MSU is able to fund some of the goals set last academic year.
In late October and early November of 2024 MSU was planning on raising tuition in order to offer raises to faculty members and raising the student minimum wage on campus.
However, Governor Greg Abbott stopped all public Texas universities from raising tuition for the next two academic years.
Despite this, MSU has still been able to grow.
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“Because of increasing enrollment, we were able to meet our budget,” Haynie said. “And we were able to make those adjustments for our student workers."
However, the increasing number of students may be a concern in the future.
“At some point, more students need more faculty and need more staff. And so you will have to have some adjustments,” Haynie said.
Though MSU will not be able to raise tuition as of right now, that may not stop them from raising fees elsewhere.
Pierce Hall reopens as a dorm hall after being used for office space last year, Sept. 22.
“If you're staying in a residence hall or some other of those kinds of expenses, students may see some slight increases there,” Haynie said. “But it’s in terms of those academic tuition fees, those are restricted.”
Overall, the administration is still striving towards their goal of helping students find a home here at MSU.
“We will continue to focus on access and success,” Haynie said. “That’s our mantra. We wanna make sure students like you find us in those community fairs, whether it’s campus visits, or it’s our communicating our story better. But we want to make sure students find MSU and that when they do, they come here and find their space and their place and be successful.”
Editor-in-Chief: Sabrina Harrison
Managing Editor: Sana Hussain
Photography Editor: Madisyn Butler
Social Media Manager: Aaron Burrows
Business Manager: Bernard Sasu Boateng
Spanish Editor: Juliette Saltos Molina
Advisor: Professor Jonathon Quam
Issue Staff: Alex Rhea, Abhigna Andepalli Vijayakumar, Lynn Wilhelm, Roger Taylor, Dazzirae Chumbley, Astrith Alvarez, Jasmine Fisher, Carma Hulse, Miranda Cunningham, Kassidi Ferguson, Helen Hamburg, Andrew Thomas
into military education center and the student success center, Sep 22.
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PHOTO BY SABRINA HARRISON | THE WICHITAN
PHOTO BY SABRINA HARRISON | THE WICHITAN The BAC is being transformed
PHOTO BY SABRINA HARRISON | THE WICHITAN Bolin Science Hall was completed updated over the past year, Sep 22.
Bold path, one herd: MSU Texas launches first transfer welcome week
SANA HUSSAIN MANAGING EDITOR
For the first time in MSU’s history, transfer students were welcomed with a week dedicated entirely to them.
Transfer Student Welcome Week featured six events designed to connect new Mustangs with each other, introduce them to campus resources and celebrate the diverse journeys that led them here. From icebreakers to info sessions, the programming aimed to create not just a transition, but a true sense of belonging.
From Sept. 8 to Sept. 10, each academic college hosted its own event, giving transfer students the rare chance to meet their deans face-to-face and build one-on-one connections.
From pizza in the newly renovated Bolin Hall to fajitas at Fain, every gathering offered students the chance to not only ask questions, but also to feel seen and welcomed into their academic homes. Instead of large crowds, the smaller settings encouraged conversations that helped transfers start forming friendships and networks across campus.
For a Caribbean Transfer Student Jessica Ling, the first three weeks at MSU Texas have already been unlike her earlier college experience. Back home, she attended a small community-style institution where students earned associate degrees. There were few clubs, and even fewer chances to truly connect with peers outside of the classroom.
“That did not happen at all, you just went home,” Ling Said. At MSU, however, she found herself stepping into a campus culture built on community.
She attended student government meetings, explored cultural organizations, and joined a mentorship program as a mentee to get guidance on navigating an unfamiliar environment.
Each step has helped her feel more like part of something larger than herself. “It really encourages community more and like, getting connected with people,” she said.
For Ling, that sense of belonging has been one of the biggest differences. It is proof that transfer students do not just slip into the background here but are given opportunities to take part in Mustang traditions from the start.
For Ecuadorian transfer Julian Meneses, Transfer Welcome
Week created a rare and meaningful chance to connect.
“The fact that you can connect with the deans… it’s something really important. Deans are often busy and hard to reach.” He said. Sitting down one-onone gave him the opportunity to ask questions, hear advice, and feel supported in charting his academic path.
Beyond that, Julian valued how the events opened the door to conversations with fellow students. “You also get the opportunity to tell some jokes, talk with friends, so I think that’s something that has made me personally feel connected.” Meneses said.
Comparing his first year abroad to his fresh start at MSU Texas, Meneses noticed how much smoother the transition felt this time.
Already familiar with the college dynamic he could quickly dive into campus life, though he still sees areas where MSU could grow. He suggested hosting larger transfer-centered gatherings where students from across colleges could meet one another and called for clearer scholarship resources.
Meneses’s call for stronger resources highlights something many transfer students quietly face. This includes the feeling of navigating a new university without the same structured guidance first-year students receive.
Meneses pointed out how difficult it can be to locate scholarships or discover opportunities that are not immediately visible. This is where programs like Tau Sigma National Honor Society step in. Tau Sigma exists for one purpose: to recognize and uplift transfer students.
At MSU, students who transfer with at least one year of credits and then achieve either a 3.5 GPA or place in the top 20% of transfers during their first semester are invited to join.
Membership is more than a line on a résumé; it connects students to a national network of peers who share the same journey, while also offering scholarships, leadership opportunities, and service projects.
For many, it becomes a space where academic achievement is celebrated, but just as importantly, where the transfer identity is embraced rather than overlooked.
In addition to organizations like Tau Sigma, transfer students also have the option to participate in New Student Orientation (NSO) and Round Up, two programs at MSU that are often associated with first-year students.
For transfers, these events serve as an added gateway into the Mustang community.
NSO introduces students to campus resources, academic advising, and the traditions that define life at MSU, while Round Up brings students together in a celebratory setting filled with activities, games, and opportunities to meet peers across colleges.
Both programs are optional for transfers, but for many, attending even one of them can be a way to break the ice and start building friendships.
By participating, transfer students are not simply “catching up” with first-year students, they are stepping into the Mustang story on their own terms, they gain the same access to resources and traditions which shape the whole experience.
While the First-Year Mustangs Adventure (FMA) course
was originally designed for first-year students, transfer students are also welcomed into the program as part of MSU’s commitment to helping every Mustang succeed.
Built around the university’s Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP), FMA is a zero-credit hour seminar (MWSU 1230) that emphasizes both academic success and community engagement.
Each section, limited to about 20 students, is led by a trained Peer Educator alongside a faculty or staff mentor. Together, they guide students through activities in a customized “Mustangs Adventure Guidebook”, which focuses on goal setting, wellness, study strategies and self-reflection.
Beyond the classroom, students meet weekly with their Peer Educator to discuss challenges, progress, and resources, while also attending events that connect them with the wider MSU community.
For transfers, this program provides not only practical skills for managing their academic journey but also an important sense of belonging alongside their peers.
Coordinator of New Student Program Kelsey Defosse listens and observes as students interact. (Sana Hussain)
Coordinator of new student programs, Kelsey Defosse, created Transfer Student Welcome Week with one purpose in mind: to help every student feel seen, supported and part of something bigger.
Transfer students often arrive carrying stories of change, challenge and courage. This week reminds them they are not alone in their journey.
From connecting with peers and mentors to discovering the resources that will guide them through their academic path, each Mustang finds a sense of belonging and pride in their new home.
True to the motto, “Bold Path, One Herd” these students are reminded that no matter where their journey began, they now have a community that walks forward with them, ready to celebrate every success and lift them through every challenge.
PHOTO BY SANA HUSSAIN | THE WICHITAN Students gather to meet and connect with one another during Transfer Week, Sep 10.
PHOTO BY SANA HUSSAIN | THE WICHITAN Coordinator of New Student Program Kelsey Defosse listens and observes as students interact., Sep 10.
Nepal’s unforgettable chaos: A protest for honesty that freed Nepal from corrupt government.
ABHIGNA ANDEPALLI VIJAYAKUMAR REPORTER
The spark began with social media posts of politicians' children flaunting their lavish lifestyle, which outraged Gen-Z in Nepal. They began to repost these posts, claiming that these ‘nepo kids’ lived off wealth looted from taxpayers- funding their Ivy League degrees, luxury cars, designer brands and elite healthcare.
On Sept. 4, after Gen-Z began sharing the posts on social media, the Nepal government banned 26 social media platforms (including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, X [formerly known as Twitter], etc.) under the guise of “registration rule."
Many saw as a direct attack on freedom of expression. What began as demonstrations against online restrictions quickly grew into a larger movement, with people demanding accountability, transparency, and justice from those in power.
On Sept. 8, many Gen-Z protestors took to the streets in Kathmandu, starting from Maitighar with a silent protest to oppose corruption, nepotism, the social media ban and broader grievances about economic and political inequality. The tragic
incident that shook the people of Nepal and the world was the shootout ordered by the Home Minister, Ramesh Lekhak, which resulted in at least 19 deaths, primarily in Kathmandu and Itahari. Seventeen of the fatalities occurred in the capital, while two others were reported in Itahari, Sunsari District.
The rising death toll and thousands of injuries highlight both the intensity of the clashes and the determination of protesters, especially Gen-Z, who were unwilling to stay silent in the face of government control and political favoritism.
On September 9, 2025, Gen-Z aggressively started to protest. They stormed and set ablaze key government buildings, including politicians' private properties.
This included: Parliament, the Supreme Court, the president’s residence (Sital Niwas), and the prime minister’s residence (Baluwatar). The International Convention Centre, which housed the Federal Parliament, was also among the structures burned.
The unrest resulted in at least 72 deaths and over 2,100 injuries and Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli's resignation.
During the Gen-Z–led protests in Nepal, former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and his wife Arzu Rana Deuba,
along with Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel, were brutally kicked and injured by protesters.
This marked one of the most violent clashes between the younger generation and the country’s top political leaders.
In a historic twist, the Prime Minister was dramatically chosen through Discord, marking a bold step into digital democracy by Nepalese Gen-Z. They elected their first female interim prime minister, Sushila Karki, who also served as the former chief justice.
In just 24 hours, Gen Z changed everything.
A country where women were burned in the name of religion under a patriarchal society now has its first female Prime Minister, shaking the entire world. An amazing incident occurred when the Gen-Z of Nepal began cleaning up the mess they had made after their protest ended. Thanks to Gen-Z for their efforts and for recognizing the work of women. Ultimately, there is a generation that truly understands the significance of gender equality.
Elections are now scheduled for March 5, 2026.
COURTESY OF THE NEW YORKER
Gen Z protests by setting fire to the parliment to Kathmandu, Sept. 22.
COURTESY OF NEWSWEEK Protestors celebrate the fall of corrupt politicians in the street of Nepal, Sept. 9.
NAVY WEEK!
PHOTO BY MADISYN BUTLER | THE WICHITAN Petty Officer 2nd Class, Musician Garrett Gordon walks center stage for his sousaphone solo, Sept. 18
PHOTO BY MADISYN BUTLER | THE WICHITAN Petty Officer 2nd Class, Musician Cameron Clements plays the tenor saxophone in the Navy Southwest Band, Sept. 18.
PHOTO BY SABRINA HARRISON | THE WICHITAN
Rear Adm. Alexis T. Walker flips the coin and the Mustangs win the coin the toss, Sept. 20.
PHOTO BY MADISYN BUTLER | THE WICHITAN Navy sailors tailgate before the game begins, Sept. 18.
PHOTO BY SABRINA HARRISON | THE WICHITAN Navy Cadets present the colors at the pregame show, Sept. 20.
PHOTO BY SABRINA HARRISON | THE WICHITAN The Navy Drill Team from Washington, D.C., performs their drill routine at the pregame show, Sept. 20.
Making one heck of a splash: The first "Wetter than Hell" duck race
LYNN WILHELM REPORTER
Making One Heck of a Splash:
The first “Wetter than Hell” duck race
On September 6, 2025, the Rotary Club of Wichita Falls, Texas, whose goal is to build up the community, hosted the “Wetter than Hell” duck race.
This event was held at Castaway Cove with the intention of raising money for local non-profits. President of the Rotary Club, and member of the steering committee for the race, Jean Hall shares how the event worked for the non-profits.
“We made it really simple. We [told] them if you want to participate, here's this really short application form,” Hall said. “We just tried to make it really easy for them so that they would have access to the fundraising without a lot of extra burden of filling out a lot of paperwork. Then we made it so that all the funds that they raised would be just general operating grants, so no strings attached. They can use it any way they need to, to support their mission.”
Co-chair of the event, and immediate past president of the Rotary club, Michael Mitchell shared a few interesting statistics for how this event ended.
“First place was a nonprofit called Sober Living, [awarded 2,500]. Number two was Backdoor Theater. They were [awarded]
the $500. And then [Curious Minds School] was third place [awarded $250]. And then also the $250 [award] for Dead Duck last, the last duck we pulled out,” Mitchell said.
Volunteers and members of Rotary Club collecting ducks after the event had ended, Sept. 6. (Lorraine Howard)
Mitchell states that instead of splitting the prize money in half, each winner of the race gave 100% of the winnings to the nonprofits they were supporting.
“So sober living, for instance, who does some wonderful things for people who struggle with substance abuse issues, was our first-place winner,” Mitchell said. “So instead of getting just the $1,250 plus,
they also received half of however many ducks they sold. So, I think they received [around] another 500 dollars, so that there puts them up to 1750. Then the person that we spoke with said, go ahead and donate my half to them as well. So that puts them up to [around] $3,000.”
Mitchell also mentions that although the intent was to have zero sponsors, they did have one sponsor, Grubbs Family Dealerships, that helped the club make this event happen.
“They sponsored for 5,000. They found us because Jeep owners have the rubber duck thing going on and they are doing a thing called the Gruber Duck Challenge. And so, they started researching rubber duck things and the Wetter than Hell popped up and they went; we would love to be a part of this. So, they underwrote the cost of the ducks,” Mitchell said.
According to Mitchell, this event will happen annually. However, the club is considering moving the event to the Spring because they wish to not compete with Texoma Gives, a yearly one-day fundraising event for North Texas and Southern Oklahoma nonprofits, which will be continuing next year around fall.
“This is something that anybody could participate in. So, if there was a student organization at MSU that wanted to participate next year, it's a very low cost of entry. It's something that's a lot of fun,” Mitchell said. “We want to support organizations. We absolutely want to support MSU and so we would love to see some more MSU students, maybe some of the marketing degrees [could] get involved and help us out next year, but also just the opportunity for some of the student organizations to get involved and help local nonprofits or even help their student organizations.”
Volunteers and members of Rotary Club collecting ducks after the event had ended.
COURTESY OF LORRAINE HOWARD | THE WICHITAN
COURTESY OF LORRAINE HOWARD| THE WICHITAN Rubber Ducks from the event lined up on a brick wall.
Options for food insecure students
ROGER TAYLOR REPORTER
According to the Department of Education's National Postsecondary Student Aid Study in 2020 3.8 million (23%) college students faced food insecurity in the United States. In the Wichita Falls area alone, over 39,000 (17.6%) people are food insecure according to data from the Wichita Falls Area Food Bank (WFAFB).
There are numerous programs and organizations dedicated to tackling food insecurity in the Wichita Falls area that can assist students that lack access to food. The Midwestern State University Food Pantry and mini-pantry are resources on campus that provide eligible students access to food.
The main pantry located in the Bridwell Activity Center provides fresh food, non-perishible items, school supplies and hygiene products to students that do not have a residential meal plan.
In order to use the pantry, students must sign the patron registration form and have a MSU student ID. The pantry is open from 5-7 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Students are only allowed to use the pantry once a week. If students are unable to meet that narrow window, personal appointments can be made at the Clark Student Center office. Students may also visit the mini-pantry located in the Legacy Hall Commons at any time to collect non-perishible food without registration.
The food pantry’s Assistant Director Kailyn Martin estimates
that over 150 students use the pantry every week. She says the majority of the students using the pantry are international students and students that live off campus.
Mustangs Pantry is open on Wednesday and Thursday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Sept. 24.
The Canan Food Security Program is a program available to MSU students that allows them to get food through the Mesquite Dining Hall and Maverick’s Corner.
In order to be in the program, students must submit an application through the university website, schedule an appointment for financial aid counseling. While in the verification process, applicants will receive 10 meals or more depending on the duration of the financial counseling.
After verification, the university will determine the number of meals that will be provided to students based on the information provided. Students in the program are provided with one meal per meal period (breakfast, lunch and dinner) until the end of the academic term in which they were in the program.
Students with a residential meal plan must have used all meal plan swipes in order to apply for the program.
The Wichita Falls Area Food Bank is an organization near campus that provides food to anyone in need. The food bank provides perishable and non-perishable food to anyone in need through their main location on Midwestern Parkway or through mobile food drives. Information about upcoming
The food bank also provides other services such as nutrition education services, recipes based on food they provide, and assistance in applying for state benefits.
on Wednesday and Thursday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Selene Research - to the moon and back
JULIETTE SALTOS MOLINA
SPANISH EDITOR
Last year Team Selene represented MSU in the NASA SUITS challenge. The team began this year with a renewed vision and mission rebranding from “Selene in Suits” to “Selene Research.”
The team wants to attract students from all majors, not just computer science so that “they can join us in completing a long-term project”, Selene Research Vice president, Victoria Heredia said.
Their inspiring experience travelling to Houston gave them a deeper appreciation of NASA missions and the importance of teamwork. It was a week full of testing and speaking one-on-one with several NASA researchers where they finally got to showcase the hard work they did during the last two semesters.
Despite being under pressure to make sure their systems worked together and to find solutions for the issues with their current systems, it “was a once in a lifetime experience that not many others get to see." President of Selene Research, Adrian Robledo said.
“We visited the historic Mission Control Center. This is where the Apollo missions were managed. The Astronaut Training Facility and Rocket Park, home to the Saturn V rocket are also located here.” Heredia said.
Being in those places where space history was made felt surreal. Outside of the tour, we were still working together, finalizing details at the hotel and supporting each other before test day” Heredia stated.
Their plans for this academic year include reapplying to the NASA SUITS challenge with the hope of being selected to be
COURTESY OF TEAM SELENE |
THE WICHITAN
Team Selene members review their code during test week at Johnson Space Center's simulated lunar enivronment.
part of both the spacesuit section and the rover.
However, they emphasized that the experience itself is invaluable and which they are grateful for regardless of the results.
Team lead Adrian Robledo experiences a lunar spacewalk
through a NASA simulation, May 20. (Courtesy of Team Selene) Beyond improving what they have already done, the team is also seeking out students in order to be part of STEM focused challenges such as the Micro-g NExT design. These types of activities are proposed by the NASA Johnson Space Center.
Following such a successful debut, the pressure this semester is undeniable. Heredia stated that she joined the team in November after the initial proposal was submitted. Now she is taking part in the writing proposal section.
On the other hand, Robledo expects to succeed as they did last year. Nevertheless, they both agree that there are a lot of expectations.
“We now have a full year of experience and have most of our team returning and ready to reapply and succeed in this year's challenge as well” Robledo said.
Team Selene enters the year setting new goals and encouraging more students to be part of this journey, balancing responsibility with excitement.
They are thankful for the support they have received and will continue to grow.
If you are interested in joining the team, don’t hesitate to DM them on Instagram at: @msutexas.selene or email them at seleneinsuits@gmail.com
mobile drives is available on the food banks website at wfafb. org.
PHOTO BY MADISYN BUTLER | THE WICHITAN Mustangs Pantry is open
MSU Texas welcomes families for annual
PHOTO BY MADISYN BUTLER | THE WICHITAN Friends pose for a photo at the family weekend tailgate, Sept. 20.
PHOTO BY DAZZIRAE CHUMBLEY | THE WICHITAN MSU families play outdoor games, such as cornhole, after interacting with various booths and organizations, Sept 20.
PHOTO BY ASTRITH ALVAREZ | THE WICHITAN Radiology sophomore Gianni Latimer and her mother embrace after singing "Mother Knows Best" from the movie Rapunzel, Sept. 19.
PHOTO BY JASMINE FISHER | THE WICHITAN Psychology junior Naomi Pearson sings "Gaston," Sept. 19.
PHOTO BY JASMINE FISHER | THE WICHITAN Psychology Freshman Pluto Jones sings "The Stranger" by Billy Joel, Sept 19.
annual family weekend celebration
PHOTO BY ASTRITH ALVAREZ | THE WICHITAN Mechanical engineering sophomore Kalyn Proctor wins a bingo prize, Sept. 19.
PHOTO BY ASTRITH ALVAREZ | THE WICHITAN Education freshman Macenzie Tillison focuses on winning a bingo alongside parents Billy and Tiffani Tillison, Sept. 19.
PHOTO BY ROGER TAYLOR | THE WICHITAN Computer science sophomore Emmanuel Gonzalez plays with a circuit while his mother, Norma Gonzalez, watches, Sept. 19
PHOTO BY MADISYN BUTLER | THE WICHITAN Families gather at Memorial Stadium to tailgate together before the game begins, Sept. 20.
Downpour, defeat and disappointment
MIRANDA CUNNINGHAM REPORTER
Despite the game being delayed for 20 minutes Memorial Stadium was still filled with families ready to support MSU’s football team and spend time with their families. The excitement from the crowd carried on throughout the night, with families cheering for the band and the cheerleaders.
Nursing junior Brittany Brantly and business management sophomore Victoria Brown were really disappointed with the delay of the game, but were hopeful when they saw a rainbow over the stadium.
A huge highlight of the game was that the Navy's drill team performing after the Golden Thunder band's pre-game performance. The crowd was excited to watch the Navy perform. Each person's eyes were on the 50 yard line during the whole performance.
MSU’s football team lost to Eastern New Mexico 56-21, but not without a fight. Midwestern won the coin toss giving the players a boost in the game. Despite the Greyhounds trying to get quarterback Jakolby Longino off balance, he pushed through and gave Midwestern a huge lead.
In the first quarter, wide receiver Demonte Greene caught
a pass from the 55 yard line and ran for a touchdown.
Greene then caught the pass intended for him, giving the Mustangs a first down. Running back Kenji Johnson runs the ball for 20 yards despite the Greyhounds trying to tackle him.provide, and assistance in applying for state benefits.
Wide receiver Cedonyae Lott caught the pass that was intended for him, pushing the Mustangs forward. Longino threw an incomplete pass to defensive back Jylun Spence, turning over the ball.
In the second half, Eastern New Mexico fumbled the ball and linebacker Oliver Jack recovered it.
After, Demonte Greene caught another 65 yard pass into a touchdown.
The rain came back right before half time and prevented the Navy band fr0m performing with Golden Thunder due to the use of electronics in the show. Brantly and Brown were disappointed with the news, but understood why they could not play.
On Sep.27 at 6pm at Permian Basin.
Soccer kicks off Saturday family weekend games
CARMA HULSE REPORTER
During Family Weekend, the MSU Women’s Soccer team had an eventful weekend that involved three thirty minute weather delays and many headers.
With the first half being zero to zero, the MSU Women’s team had an amazing comeback with the final score being 2-1.
Even though there were three weather delays, they did not let that stop them from winning this game. Leeci Snyder prays before every game, praying over her teammates and praying for a good and safe game.
With a tight start of the first half being zero to zero, Business management junior Leeci Snyder shared her thoughts during that difficult time.
“It was a good game overall and with it being so tight in the first half and with it being intense in the end, In my brain I was thinking just get to the next play. Don’t think too far away. We have a saying 'Be a Goldfish,' Snyder said. "If you made a mistake don’t think about it. If you had a good play, forget it. We are on to the next play. One play at a time. Just keep going and those minutes are going down and down and down and hopefully we end up getting a goal and if we don’t, next play.”
Before the first weather delay, exercise physiology junior, Taryn Sueltz got the first goal of the game.
“I felt amazing. That was my first collegiate goal that I have scored here at Midwestern. I’m blessed that my teammates are able to do exactly what the coaches are asking. Get the ball wide, play it in between the post and I'm just lucky that I was there at the right place at the right time,” Sueltz said.
Business junior Lillia Besedin whose position is midfielder explained why she joined MSU's soccer team.
“I transferred in my sophomore year from a different school in Oregon, and really I came here and felt the atmosphere was just ten times better. I met the coaches and they really made me feel like I really was needed here. I looked at the facilities and just thought it was amazing. I really just connected with the campus and just Wichita Falls when I first came here,” Besedin said.
While watching the game you could see how focused exercise physiology sophomore, Tanner Sorenson was making sure nothing got through her net. Sorenson then shared how she prepares for the game.
“Honestly I listen to my pregame music, I drink my energy drink, and just like getting in the mindset of just envisioning myself making those saves, making those reaction just so I can be ready to do that on the pitch. I like to get a good warm up," Sorenson said.
The defense throughout the game was amazing and one player who stood out was exercise physiology senior, Mable Pruter. Throughout the game Pruter performed many headers (headbutting the ball).
“It’s just a matter of hitting it in the right spot. You have to hit it on your hairline. So it's just a matter of making sure you hit it in the right spot. It will hurt if you hit the top of your head, which happens to me all the time. Especially when the ball is high up in the air it’s hard to judge it. You just have to go in with confidence,” Pruter said.
During the game Pruter was kicked right in the knee, but instead of subbing out she walked it off.
“We kept giving up goals in the last few minutes of the games and it was like, I can’t just stop here right now. I could ask for a sub in but I want to win and I want to finish this game out. So I just toughed it out. Usually it helps to just walk it off. It was the adrenaline going,” Pruter said.
With the last twenty minutes of the game being 1-0 and both team’s defense going strong, arts and science senior Nyxalee Munoz had an amazing header goal.
“I just thought about just running to the goal. Our goal is to just launch the ball into the box and I just found the right opportunity. I’ve always wanted to do a diving header and that was a perfect opportunity to throw my body in there,” Munoz said.
However, the 30 minute rain delay definitely changed the game for the players.
“I would say both I think we needed a little momentum because we were sitting for an hour or so. I think it changed the whole energy of the game” Munoz said.
Assistant coach Lynn Smith thought that the team's previous scores were more pressure than being at home on Family Weekend.
“I don’t think we find any pressure playing at home. I think the only pressure we have was finishing these games off. We’ve had positions where we could be 4-0 but we unfortunately had a loss and three ties before this so I think the only pressure is getting the win at the final at the end of
the day and they were ready to do that. So I will take that as a positive," Smith said.
However being at home does change the energy of the team. "I think they can answer that too. You see it at home anyways. This is a general buzz, there isn’t a difference. You are sleeping in your own bed, you’re waking up, you’re waking up and you are getting here," Smith said. "You do have your family, you do have your friends, you do have your colleagues out here. People supporting you instead of them being against you so no I think anytime we get to play at home is special. I think we have talked over the last 3 years with coach Spence and I and we have only lost one game at home so we take pride in playing here.”
Even though the game started tight and ended tight, the MSU women’s soccer team had a deserving victory this weekend.
The Midwestern State Mustangs will play UT Permian Basin
PHOTO BY SABRINA HARRISON | THE WICHITAN Demonte Greene (3) scores a touchdown for the mustangs at the Family Weekend footballl game. Sept. 20, 2025.
PHOTO BY KASSIDI FERGUSON | THE WICHITAN The women's soccer team huddling up before breaking out to start the game.
ALEX RHEA REPORTER
OReaching zen through art
n Tuesday, Sept. 9, the Wichita Falls Museum of Art hosted the “Creative Calm: Art and Mindfulness” event.
When people entered the event, they were told to sit at any table. Each table had a big square white paper with a small black square paper in the middle.
According to the instructor, the white paper represented purity and light while the black paper represented corruption and darkness.
The main objective was to create something guided by the creator’s mind, heart and soul by cutting the black paper with scissors in any way they feel appropriate to them.
There was a variety of ways people worked. Some people cut a lot and made intricate patterns while others just made something simple.
Education curator Jennifer McLarty was the one hosting the event that day and one of her goals for the event was to build a community within the Wichita Falls Museum of Art.
“My main goals are to build a community and get people to come over and see where the Wichita Falls Museum of Art is.” McLarty said.
Organismal biology sophomore Bren Lane uses art as a way to destress, Sept. 9. (Alex Rhea)
Organismal biology sophomore Bren Lane said she will be at the Wichita Falls Museum of Art every Tuesday and Saturday
because of the museum's welcoming atmosphere.
“Three weeks ago, I was checking the Corq app to fill my planner with stuff to do,” Lane said. “They were just so welcoming that I already knew that this was going on ‘cause it’s actually a recurring event. So like every Tuesday and Saturday, you can expect to find me here now.”
Economics freshman Jesse Bearden said Lane asked him if he wanted to join, and he said yes because he had nothing better to do.
“Like Bren said, I saw it on the Corq app. Well technically, she’s the one that got me involved. She asks me if I want to go to the museum and go do some crafts with her,” Bearden said. “Sure why not, I have nothing else better to do.”
"The Conjuring: The Last Rites"
ABHIGNA
ANDEPALLI VIJAYAKUMAR REPORTER
Micheal Chaves's “The Conjuring: The Last Rites” Leigh Whannell continues the franchise’s dark supernatural style but with some shifts.
Unlike Creator James Wan’s earlier films that relied on suspense and slow tension, Chaves focuses more on atmosphere and jump scares.
Writers Ian Goldberg and Richard Naing add psychological depth from their work on "The Autopsy of Jane Doe", while Writer David Leslie JohnsonMcGoldrick, who also co-wrote "The Conjuring 2" and "The Devil Made Me Do It", extends the Warrens’ world. This film blends established mythology with fresh influences to keep the series engaging and less repetitive.
“The Conjuring: Last Rites” is about Ed and Lorraine Warren’s final big haunting case as they investigate a family terrorized by evil forces set free through an antique mirror.
As the supernatural threats and attacks escalate, the Warrens are confronted by the mirror’s dark powers that test their limits in ways they have never faced before.
COURTESY OF BLOOD DISGUSTING
The Warrens face moral, emotional and physical dangers as they try to end what the mirror has started, pushing them into situations where their faith and determination are the only shields against overwhelming darkness.
The movie is really about facing evil and personal trauma, the strength of courage and faith, and the emotional challenges the Warrens endure while protecting others, including
themselves, from forces beyond human understanding. This make it not just a horror story but also a journey of resilience and sacrifice.
"The Conjuring: The Last Rites" concluded filming near the end of 2024, Sept. 9, 2024.
Being a horror movie lover, it shook me when I saw the trailer for the first time. At the same time, it excited me
because it was an unexpected comeback of "The Conjuring" universe. What the audience and I thought was the end, was actually the beginning of the suspense, thriller and terrifying horror part of The Conjuring movie.
Overall, the movie was amazing—the director never fails to show brilliance.
“The Conjuring: The Last Rites” is connected with all three movies of “The Conjuring.”
There is definitely a clear climax to the movie and the plot is connected to the other movies. The movie becomes more and more interesting as we watch it. There’s nothing to be bored with at all unless you are not a horror movie lover.
Audience reviews are vital for any movie and filmmaker.
There was a very positive response from the audience as they know "The Conjuring" universe is one of the most exquisite and popular across the world, especially among Gen-Z.
The appreciation not only reflects the movie’s ability to deliver scares but also its power to connect emotionally with viewers who have followed the series for years.
Many fans expressed that the film lived up to the legacy of the franchise, blending suspense, thriller, storytelling, and horror in a way that kept them fully engaged.
The excitement among Gen-Z audiences further demonstrates how the franchise continues to evolve, keeping younger generations hooked while maintaining its reputation among long-time horror enthusiasts. This overwhelming response highlights the strong bond between the filmmakers and the audience, proving that The Conjuring Universe remains a cultural phenomenon in the horror genre.
PHOTO BY ALEX RHEA | THE WICHITAN Education curator Jennifer McLarty talks to participants of the art event.
| THE WICHITAN
The Conjuring:Last Rites concluded filming near the end of 2024.
You are what you consume | "Social Dilemma"
HELEN HAMBURG REPORTER
If you have found yourself wondering, “Who is Charlie Kirk?” or “Charlie Kirk is so famous, why are these people pretending they’ve never heard of him?” Recently, you might want to check out the documentary “The Social Dilemma”, now streaming on Netflix. It has nothing to do with Charlie Kirk - but everything to do with why you have or have not heard of him.
“The Social Dilemma” is a thought-provoking documentary that explores the dark side of social media and its impact on society. Directed by Jeff Orlowski, the film investigates the possibly unintended consequences of the technology most of us use daily - Instagram, Google, TikTok, YouTube - and asks if these platforms are being used to divide us and erode the social order.
The most interesting parts of the film are the interviews with several former employees of major tech companies, including Google, Facebook, X and Pinterest.
The very people who helped build the algorithms and design features that manipulate user behavior - many of whom seem a bit embarrassed by their involvement - are now sounding the alarm about how these tools exploit human psychology and keep users online.
Many said they started out building something good but eventually quit over ethical concerns. While the experts do not fully acknowledge their own complicity, the fact that they chose to speak out is powerful and adds credibility to the documentary.
The film is cut with news footage and some unfortunate fictional dramatizations that recall Pixar’s 2015 film Inside Out. These scenes are used to illustrate how social media algorithms affect users, especially teenagers.
While overly dramatic and political at times, they highlight how easy it is to become addicted to screen time - and how echo chambers and misinformation can manipulate beliefs.
A bright spot in the film is Tristan Harris, a former Google designer who co-founded the Center for Humane Technology. He offers some hope for the future in an otherwise doom and gloom story by advocating for stronger regulation, transparency and more ethical design practices.
The film closes with some practical suggestions for changing user behavior.
First, be aware of manipulative tactics. Second, turn off notifications that aren’t timely or important. Limit your screen time and be more mindful of your online interactions. Ignore automated recommendations and make intentional choices. Seek out a variety of information sources and follow people you don’t agree with.
It’s unrealistic to think we’ll stop using social media altogether, but we can make choices that reduce its harmful
effects on our mental health.
The big takeaway: If you’re not paying for the product, you are the product. Social media platforms monetize your attention and sell it to advertisers with the help of hyper-targeted data collection. The algorithms aren’t optimized to make you better informed - they’re designed to keep you engaged and influence what you believe.
“The Social Dilemma” is interesting, informative and worth watching.
The movie included interviews with some of techs biggest names such as Tristan Harris and Jus
tin Rosenstein, Sept. 9 2020.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MEDIUM
The Social Dilemma shares the dangers of social media, Sept. 9 2020.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BROWN DAILY HERALD
The Social Dilemma premiered on Netflix in 2020.
COURTESY OF NEW INTRIGUE
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"Superman" : The success of DC’s last hope
ANDREW THOMAS REPORTER
After a much needed change in leadership, DC Studios returned to the big screen with the most powerful and successful "Supermam" film in recent history.
Directed by now DC Studios
Co-CEO James Gunn, “Superman” was one of the summer’s biggest blockbuster events, earning over $600 million worldwide according to IMDb.
The film currently stands as the highest grossing superhero movie of 2025, flying high over Marvel’s “The Fantastic Four: First Steps”, “Thunderbolts*” and “Captain
America: Brave New World."
This is the first time since 2008 that a DC film has stood tall over a Marvel film for the fiscal year.
“Superman” is a movie that is rich with love, creativity, passion and above all hope. It spreads the messages of being human, valuing all life and embracing kindness to one another.
While it is a film that marks the beginning of a new series or cinematic universe, it is not an origin story like many are used to. “Superman” instead serves as an introduction to this new universe, along with its world, characters and grand scale.
The movie stars David Corenswet playing Superman as he attempts to
juggle embracing his alien heritage versus his human upbringing.
After Lex Luthor(Nicholas Hoult) turns the public against him, Superman must regain the public trust while continuing to act as the embodiment of hope, in a not-sohopeful world.
Joining Superman on his adventure is his love interest Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan) a superhero faction known as the Justice Gang, his dog Krypto and many more.
“Superman” is filled with many fun and believable characters, each providing unique motivations, arcs and beats to the overall story.
While many parts of this new world are explored, “Superman” primarily takes place in the fictitious city of “Metropolis”, a very bright and bold metro city.
Metropolis is blooming with personality and identity, truly feeling like its own place, as if the city itself were a character in the story.
Additionally, the civilians of Metropolis help populate the area, and immerse the audience into this fantastical world.
Many superhero films tend to ignore the civilian aspects, or make the everyday humans feel unimportant and lackluster. However, under Gunn’s direction, each and every person feels alive and real, as if they have their own hopes, dreams, and passions.
Gunn’s storytelling, combined with the film’s beautiful score and compelling chemistry among cast members, comes together to create an amazingly emotional experience that will have many audience members in tears by the third act.
From the very realistic and closeto-home conflicts between the nations of Jarhanpur and Boravia, to the heartstring-pulling father and son pep talks, “Superman” embraces the true beauty and value of being kind and embracing one another, even in our moments of hopelessness.
Outside of the box office, the film’s cultural impact has also been prominent as Superman merchandise has taken over grocery stores, clothing stores and of course, toy stores.
Additionally, the internet has decided to run with the idea that
"kindness is the new punk rock” with many users on social media platforms such as Instagram, the social platform X (formerly Twitter), Facebook and more sharing stories of performing kind acts to others, or their environments, after seeing the movie.
These posts are normally accompanied by an image of Superman, or a song featured in the film.
Following the movie’s overwhelming success, a sequel has already been publicly announced entitled “Man of Tomorrow.” The sequel will see James Gunn return to the director’s chair as David Corenswet and Nicholas Hoult reprise their roles for a Superman and Lex Luthor team up as the characters join forces against a larger adversary.
Filming is currently scheduled to begin in April of 2026, with a global theatrical release taking place in July the following year. This film will be the first Superman solo sequel in over 40 years.
Can Gunn and DC Studios deliver again? Time will have to tell as we “look up” to the future.
COURTESY OF SUPERMAN SUPER SITE
Co-stars David Corenswet and Nicholas interact during breaks while filming, Jul. 11.
COURTESY OF VARIETY David Corenswet starred in the 2025 version of