April 2021 Vol. 114 Issue 7

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• Vol. 114 • Issue 7 • April 23, 2021

Retrenchment Decisions Expected by End of Semester

decisions. Mercado stressed that nothing is

MATTHEW GOLDSMITH

official at this point.

News Editor

“President Best will be the one who

University of Central Missouri President

makes the final decision,” Mercado said.

Roger Best is currently in the process of

“We’re just making recommendations at

identifying the positions to be eliminated

each level.”

because of the ongoing retrenchment

Mercado said the university is focused on

process. On March 29, Best announced 41

students during this process.

positions would be eliminated via email

“We are going to make sure that the

sent to faculty, and they were notified on

students are not affected by all these

April 15 that Provost and Vice President for

decisions and our goal is to make sure

Academic Affairs Phillip Bridgmon sent his

that we have adequate staffing for all the

next round of recommendations to Best.

academic programs,” Mercado said.

Bridgmon estimated that around half

Michael Sawyer, College of Arts,

of his recommended positions to be cut

came from vacant positions and planned retirements.

Notifications have been sent to

faculty members that state whether or not their position has been identified for retrenchment at this point. He

acknowledged the uncertainty brought to the UCM community by retrenchment.

“These processes create apprehension

and anxiety and concern, so I certainly recognize that. I share those feelings,” Bridgmon said.

Bridgmon said his review process

involved discussing the potential of

reassigning tenured faculty to different

subject areas with the four college deans.

Humanities, and Social Sciences dean, UCM President Roger Best is in the process of making his final retrenchment decisions after Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Phillip Bridgmon provided his recommendations.

Best said he expects to make his decisions on which positions will be retrenched by the end of the school year. Illustration by Adam Sullens

Alice Greife, College of Health, Science,

and Technology dean, said her college’s

school chairs were tasked with providing their recommendations for which

way, Greife admitted that the process is

challenging on a personal level, especially with the type of community UCM is.

“So much of us know each other,” Greife

positions would be a part of the 14 slated

said. “Particularly, the program faculty

She then independently reviewed the

with each other, so it’s a very difficult

for retrenchment in their programs.

recommendations and submitted her own recommendation.

While saying that retrenchment isn’t

a personal process that focuses on an

individual’s credentials in a fair and open

know each other very well. We socialize personal process.”

Jose Mercado, Harmon College of

Business and Professional Studies dean,

had three positions in his college identified for retrenchment in Best’s March 29

noted if a tenured or tenure-track faculty member is identified for retrenchment

by Best, their contract becomes terminal,

meaning they will be able to stay at UCM next school year, but will be required to

leave before the following academic year.

Sawyer said retrenchment is a process

based on university policy and isn’t an

indictment of affected faculty members performance.

“There’s no judgment on anybody’s

value.” Sawyer said. “These are

tremendous losses of very, very talented faculty.”

Best said retrenchment has been difficult.

JUMP TO PAGE 3

Shedding Light on Sexual Assault Awareness MATT GOLDSMITH & SKYE MELCHER News Editor & Features Editor

to broaden their worldview and

Warning: This story mentions sexual

understanding of who is affected by sexual

assault, which could be triggering to

assault. Latare said one of the biggest

some readers.

misconceptions surrounding sexual assault

According to the Rape, Abuse, & Incest

is that it only happens to straight, white

National Network, 13% of all college

cisgendered women.

students experience sexual assault. As

“It happens to people of all genders, all

April is Sexual Assault Awareness month,

gender identities, all ages, all abilities,”

Missouri talk prevention, reporting and

data to show that it does happen more

officials from the University of Central

Latere said. “There is some pretty strong

misconceptions.

frequently to people who identify as

If a student at UCM experiences sexual

women, however, it is harmful to promote

assault they have the option of reporting

that message alone.”

the incident to Title IX, Public Safety, the

Latare said she doesn’t think that sexual

local police, or faculty or staff, who are

mandatory reporters, or the student could talk about the incident to designated

confidential areas, such as the University

Health Center or Counseling Services and

not have it reported. Students decide who they talk to about the incident, but each group responds differently.

Title IX of the Education Amendments

of 1972 is a federal civil rights law that

prohibits sexual discrimination, including sexual harassment, sexual violence and

assault is a widespread problem at UCM, This graphic depicts the number of reported sexual assault cases at the University of Central Missouri from 2010-2020. According to UCM Public Safety, five of the rapes reported in 2014 occurred in 2012 and one in 2013. Three rapes reported in 2016 occurred in 2015, and eight fondling reports were made by a single victim and occurred separately over two months.

said. “At very minimum, we make sure

Suzy Latare, manager of Outreach, Access

every student is connected with resources.”

and Community Health, oversees work

important because of the role it plays in

campus. She commended the Title IX office

Jennings said she feels Title IX is

helping keep students safe.

Rick Dixon, Title IX investigator

related to sexual assault prevention on and its staff.

“Our Title IX office is consistently head

other forms of sexual misconduct. Heather

and deputy Title IX coordinator, said

and shoulders above other comparable

deputy Title IX coordinator at UCM, and

responsibilities is strict when responding to

related to the kind of positive feedback

Jennings is a Title IX investigator and

she focuses on responding to reported incidents.

“We walk with students through whatever

their experience is and then provide

options on the investigative side,” Jennings

the distinction between roles and a sexual assault report.

“We can’t provide support services and

then turn around and be the investigator too, so we have to refer things out to the appropriate people,” Dixon said.

universities, and even larger universities, that students give about the process, about how in compliance the office is with what

is required at the federal level, and frankly just how fair the process is,” Latare said.

Latare said it’s important for individuals

but is a problem in our society as a whole.

Daniel Othic, assistant director of Police

Operations at UCM, said that Public Safety works with Campus Community Health

on some of their sexual assault prevention

programs. Othic said Public Safety does as much as they can with prevention and in response to an incident.

“That initial part is about that survivor,

making sure they’re getting what they’re

needed,” Orthic said. “The criminal aspect at that time isn’t as important as making sure they’re getting the mental and

physical assistance they need so then what

we’ll do is we’ll recontact or follow up with that victim a day or two later.”

Othic, a 22 year veteran of Public Safety,

said he believes UCM has a safe campus.

JUMP TO PAGE 3

News

2 Muleskinner • Vol. 114 • Issue 7 • April 23, 2021

975 Students Vaccinated

MICHAEL LEWIS

TRIO to Use CARES Act Funding MATTHEW GOLDSMITH News Editor Emergency Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and

Reporter

Economic Security (CARES) Act funding

will be used to support the TRIO-Student

Support Services program at the University of Central Missouri. The program, initiated in 1978, assists first-generation college students, students from a low-income

background and students with disabilities.

Provost and Vice President for Academic

Affairs Phillip Bridgmon said TRIO, a

federal grant-funded program, had an

support it provides its targeted groups.

the program was part of a competitive

an opportunity to be served by the many

is required for funding. Bridgmon said the

the degrees that they sought, and no one

unsuccessful renewal application because pool of applicants and scored below what program’s significance is why the CARES Act funding is being used.

Bridgmon said he expects the program to

Sophomore environmental safety major Ean Kenyon receives his first vaccine at the clinic held on April 12. “I feel really good, both my parents have gotten it already,” Kenyon said. “I know a lot of non-students have gotten it, so it’s really nice to see that they’re finally taking care of the college kids.” Photo by Skye Melcher

The University of Central Missouri

vaccination. After the shot, students sat

up with Johnson County Community

monitor for allergic reactions, and once

Campus Community Health Office teamed Health Services and nursing students to distribute Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines to

for 15 minutes so medical staff could approved, they were free to leave.

Sophomore German major Alexis Davis

UCM students from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

was one of many students excited to

Building.

debated getting the vaccine at first, but

on April 12 in the UCM Multipurpose The event was UCM’s first student-

driven vaccine clinic, and multiple nursing

receive their shot during the clinic. Davis the clinic changed her mind.

“I was very on the fence,” Davis said.

students and staff helped at the event.

“I wasn’t fully on board with getting the

and JCCHS have partnered to distribute

I thought that I should take this chance to

In the past, Campus Community Health vaccines to faculty and community

members, but this is the first clinic aimed at UCM students and their dependents.

Kerris Lewis, the community outreach

coordinator for JCCH, said there was a

good turnout for the event, and they were at full capacity.

“The University Health Center reached

out to JCCHS to inquire about a student-

driven COVID vaccine clinic,” Lewis said.

“We were more than excited for that

opportunity to partner with the University Health Center.”

Those vaccinated were student and their

dependents, and those involved labeled

vaccine, but with the clinic getting offered, get it now.”

Davis said she didn’t experience any

major side-effects from the vaccine.

“My arm is sore in the injection area if I

press it, but besides that I’m fine,” Davis said. “On day one of the vaccines, I was

very tired and took a pretty hefty nap. The following day, I felt relatively normal; my arm was super sore though. It was more of an annoyance than anything.”

Some students say they are not ready for

the vaccine. Holly Hagood, a freshman

radiology major, said she was worried the vaccine was distributed too early.

“My opinion of the vaccine is that it

the clinic a success.

was a rushed process,” Hagood said.

Lewis said. “The goal today was all 1170

and consequences to consider using

“We did not have any extra spots,”

vaccines in the arms of individuals coming in.”

Campus Community Health Director

Amy Kiger helped organize the event

and showed her support for the nursing

“I think it has too many side-effects nationally.”

Hagood said the process needs more

time before she would want to get vaccinated.

“Let the vaccine develop with the

students who volunteered.

amount of time it really needs, then give

vaccinations all day long and eight other

said. “Young adults like us don’t need it.

“Four students were drawing out

nursing students were giving the vaccine,” Kiger said. “The presence of the nursing

students was strong. We would not have

it to those who actually need it,” Hagood Just give the vaccine to the people who are truly worried about getting sick.”

Students are receiving vaccinations after

had the manpower without them, and we

a majority of other individuals, according

students.”

must wait to return to normal operations

are very appreciative of our UCM nursing Students registered through an online

registration link. When they arrived, they

filled out forms related to health concerns

and their medical history. Then, they were sent to a seat, where they were given the

to the tier roll out plan. The university until a certain capacity of the campus population gets vaccinated.

The next clinic at UCM for students to

receive their second dose is scheduled for May 3 in the Multipurpose Building.

Junior speech language pathology major and TRIO student Tiffani Perez works at one of the TRIO labs in the Humphreys Building. Photo by Matthew Goldsmith

continue for the remainder of this school year and the next because it provides

“There are so many students who had

different personnel who worked here to get can take that away,” Beggs said.

Junior speech language pathology major

and TRIO student Tiffani Perez said she has benefited from her experience with TRIO. “I think it’s probably one of the best

support for students to be successful.

experiences I can get out of college,” Perez

need to continue,” Bridgmon said. “I look

helpful resources here.”

“It’s a vitally important program that we

forward to that continuing.”

Chris Beggs, executive director of

Academic Support Services, oversees

TRIO. Beggs said he thinks the program is important because of the additional

said. “I just think there’s so many good,

Perez said being part of TRIO has helped

introduce her to people on campus.

“I think making those connections with

people has been one of my favorite things about TRIO,” Perez said.

Blended Tuition Approved for Fall

ZAYIN BARNES Reporter

On March 26, the University of Central

Missouri’s Board of Governors approved implementing a blended tuition rate,

which will make online and in-person

Board of Governors, where they approved the change.

Junior marketing major and SGA

member Zachary Racy was a part of the team that gathered the information.

“In the past couple of months, we have

tuition rates more equitable.

seen several other institutions across the

per credit hour for face to face, on-campus

tuition rate,” Racy said. “Obviously,

Currently, students are paying $237.60

and flexible classes. Online and hybrid

classes are more expensive, standing at $292.05 per credit hour. The blended

tuition rate will make all classes $258.25

per credit hour starting next fall of 2021.

UCM’s Student Government Association

was tasked with gathering information

on what students think about a blended

tuition rate rather than classes varying in cost, and ultimately, students supported

state of Missouri speak about a blended we wanted to gather student input on

this, which is exactly what the Student Government Association did.”

Varying in cost, the current tuition rate

does not give some students the ability to learn to the best of their ability.

The movement by the board still needs

approval from the Missouri Commissioner of Higher Education.

“This is something that keeps us

a blended tuition rate, which led the SGA

innovative and keeps us on track to stay

Roger Best. Best took this data to the

state of Missouri,” Racy said.

to present their data to UCM President

competitive with our counterparts in the

News

Muleskinner 3 • Vol. 114 • Issue 7 • April 23, 2021

Homeless Project Raises Awareness ABRAM TABOR Reporter

The University of Central Missouri

Center for Multiculturalism and

Inclusivity hosted an overnight sleepout in front of the Elliott Student Union on April 2 as part of the

#UCMHomelessProject, a week dedicated to spreading awareness of the local homeless population.

UCM students Dominique Hampton

and Amanda Dalton coordinated multiple

events throughout the week, including the sleep-out, a bake sale and a documentary watch party. The events raised $579.10 in monetary donations, and students

made 300 care kits. Dalton said she was

inspired to do a homeless awareness week while volunteering at the Refuge on Ming homeless shelter in Warrensburg.

“I feel like it’s an eye-opener,” Dalton

said. “You don’t realize how much you

have until you see somebody who doesn’t have as much as you.”

The week’s events focused on growing

awareness and understanding for the local

homeless community. The biggest event of the week was the overnight sleep out.

“It shows that we care, like we want

unless something unusual happens — the

homeless, and wanted to give back to

positions which are being eliminated,” Best

the community.

said.

“It’s not a good feeling,” Armstrong

on the streets. Going through that

experience made me have a different

Multiple students came together to help the Warrensburg homeless population. “Our slogan for this week is ‘homeless not hopeless. Unheard but not unseen,’” Amanda Dalton said. Submitted photo

outlook on life. Definitely having a

“So, it’s really important, I think, to raise

but think about others and put myself in

know that those people are also, not just

mentality to not only think about myself that perspective.”

Students from a variety of years and

awareness for that and just letting people Americans, but people in general.”

“I think it’s pretty apparent to anybody

majors attended the overnight sleep out.

that goes to this campus that there is

around Warrensburg,” junior political

awareness,” junior marketing major Briley

“For me, I see a lot of homeless people

science major Payton McQueen said. “It’s good to do something like this to raise

awareness and get them the help that they need.”

Students chose to raise awareness for

people who are homeless because they said the group is often ignored.

“Being houseless is definitely a

marginalized group of people that I feel

and we’re only doing this for a day, we

the fact that they don’t have a house,”

understand.”

the semester from my perspective —

Armstrong has a background being

to put ourselves in your shoes.” Dalton

said, “Although you do this on the daily

“We certainly will know by the end of

major Christopher Armstrong.

experience that it’s like living out

how UCM has responded. As the next step university faculty are closer to answers.

the project was freshman finance

shelter, so I didn’t have the real-real

PAGE 1: However, he said he appreciates

of the retrenchment process is completed,

Another student who helped with

said. “Luckily for me, I was in a

RETRENCHMENT CONTINUED FROM

like are often forgotten, just because of senior theatre major Ally Fields said.

According to the statue’s plaque, Dale Carnegie was an author, educator and entreprenuer who developed courses in selfimprovement, salemanship, corporate training, public speaking and interpersonal skills. He attended what is now UCM from 1906-1909, and he was a member of the Speech and Debate team. The plaque also reads, “Take a chance! All life is a chance. The one who goes farthest is usually the one willing to do and dare.” Photo by Lauryn Morrow

Best noted if tenured faculty members are

identified for retrenchment and don’t have other positions on campus, they are able

to appeal the decision, which could extend the retrenchment process past the end of the semester.

Robert Lee, College of Education dean,

said he was unavailable for an interview.

SEXUAL ASSUALT AWARENESS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1:

“I have two daughters that go to school

a problem, and it’s important to bring

here, and if I didn’t think it was safe I

Wade said. “It’s a shared effort with the

to college here; my wife went to college

community and with the students on

campus, and we’re always happy to help out the community.”

Dalton said the ways to help are small,

and it starts with awareness.

“Just be mindful of everybody, everything

is not always peaches and cream,” Dalton said. “You never know what someone

wouldn’t have sent them here. I went here. If you were to sit back and look

at what our crime statistics are to other

campuses they’re going to be very similar, if you’re going to look at them to other

communities, you’re going to see we’re like any other campus. We have crime here; it’s not a complete safe zone,” Othic said.

If you or someone you know is a survivor of

is going through, you never know if

sexual violence, contact 911, Public Safety at

them and their family together.”

441-4855.

someone’s last paycheck is what’s keeping

660-543-4123 or the Title IX office at 660-

Faculty

are you ready for your voice to be heard?

Join UCM NEA!

Scan the QR code to try membership for free for 5 months or visit https://join.nea.org/MISSOURI/

Questions? Contact us at ucmnea@gmail.com for more info or to attend our monthly Zoom meetings, 4-5 pm on the third Thursday of the month.

Features

4 Muleskinner • Vol. 114 • Issue 7 • April 23, 2021

A Year Ago Today: Freshmen Reflect on Changes EMILY DICKMEIER Reporter & Photographer

Competitions, special events and

ceremonies were postponed throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, which started

memories, but those seniors who are now

because of the pandemic. Smith didn’t

are making new memories. They all

have interesting answers to the question: “Where were you a year ago today?”

Entrepreneurship and management

double major Madison Baxter is a freshman team member on the Jennies bowling

team. Baxter had a passion for bowling and art since the age of three.

During high school, she was involved

with Girl Scouts, which pushed back cookie season, and Distributive Education Clubs of America, which canceled her trip to

signing day for the Jennies was canceled

think too much about news concerning the

coronavirus, but she soon realized just how much it would be taking away from her.

“I have two older brothers, so watching

them go through senior nights, signing

days, proms, graduations, I was like, ‘That’s gonna be me one day,’ Smith said. “It did not happen.”

Freshman Catherine Strathman, music

performance and Spanish double major, is

a member of the UCM wind ensemble and the music fraternity, Sigma Alpha Iota.

Leading up to her graduation in July,

Nashville for nationals.

her time was filled with online interviews

Baxter, as she was able to rest a long-term

spring photos in her senior yearbook. She

The coronavirus wasn’t all negative for

knee injury during quarantine.

Baxter spends her free time painting

and enjoys her experience on the Jennies bowling team. She has enjoyed her first semesters at UCM.

“I want to finish the rest of the year with

the grades that I have,” Baxter said. “I

want to keep my A’s to definitely qualify for

Submitted photos

In high school, Smith was involved in

bowling, choir and the A+ program. Her

University of Central Missouri freshmen

Smith and Catherine Strathman in high school.

been bowling since middle school.

in March 2020. Many high school seniors lost their opportunity to make lasting

From top to bottom, Madison Baxter, Julie

is also on the bowling team, and she has

the Dean’s list, and then to also qualify for the academic portion for bowling.”

Freshman education major Julie Smith

and trying to make up for the absence of

was also impacted by the passing of a close friend and another friend’s mother.

“I’m trying to focus more on my mental

health this year,” Strathman said. “In high school, I pushed my emotions aside and

focused on whatever I was doing, and that really caused some issues for me.”

She is looking forward to expressing her

extroverted personality and enjoying the

simple act of seeing strangers smile again as the world opens back up.

From top to bottom, Madison Baxter, Julie Smith and Catherine Strathman in 2021.

Photos by Emily Dickmeier

Features

Muleskinner 5 • Vol. 114 • Issue 7 • April 23, 2021

Prism Celebrates Queer Identities with Gaypril

MADISON PRESTON

Lavender Graduation is another event

that lets students celebrate as themselves.

Reporter

Reece said Lavender Graduation is very

Gaypril, held during the week of April 12-

important to them as a senior.

16, gives queer students the opportunity

“I am unable to graduate using my chosen

to celebrate their identities on campus.

Gaypril consists of events like Lavender

name for multiple reasons,” Reece said.

it is hosted by Prism, UCM’s LGBTQ+

is a really painful thing for me to think

“My dead name is on my diploma. This

Graduation and various workshops, and

about. Having a chance to celebrate my

organization. This year, many events that

accomplishment with my family that I’ve

are typically held in-person had to be

built here on campus, using my name, is so

shifted to be held on Zoom.

rewarding.”

Prism Adviser Rachel Clements said the

Some families are unaware of a

organization creates a safe space for people

graduate’s identity, so traditional

to share and learn about the LGBTQ+

graduation can be more stressful than

community and its allies.

“As a minority population, LGBTQIA+

students face challenges that other

Prism members encouraged students to wear pride colors and come by their table in the student

“We provide a safe space for students

the LGBTQIA+ community by providing

various identities within the LGBTQIA+

community, show their support as allies

students do not face,” Clements said.

union for stickers, candy and pronoun buttons. Photo submitted by Michael Reece

to be their authentic selves, learn about

the opportunity to ask questions about the

community and express those identities

with which they identify. We also provide inclusive events for people who are not

LGBTQIA+ to be allies and share and learn about the community.”

Clements said Gaypril is beneficial for the

and learn about the myriad identities under the LGBTQIA+ umbrella.”

Gaypril allows students to feel proud of

who they are and educate others about the community.

One of the most popular events during

them an opportunity to celebrate as themselves.

Prism President and senior computer

science student Michael Reece has been a part of Prism for four years. Reece

said they, unfortunately, could not host the Second Chance Dance because of COVID-19 precautions.

Reece said this event is a highlight of

entire campus.

Gaypril is the Second Chance Dance, which

Gaypril and allows couples to be accepted.

is beneficial to UCM, as it allows our

Student Union open to students and the

first semester at UCM four years ago,”

“I strongly believe this week-long event

LGBTQIA+ students to share their own stories and celebrate their pride, where

otherwise they may not be able to do so,” Clements said. “It benefits those outside

is a prom-like dance held in the Elliott Warrensburg community.

Rules against same-sex couples prevent

many LGBTQ+ students from enjoying

prom, so the Second Chance Dance allows

“I’ve been a part of Prism since my very

rewarding. Lavender Graduation is intended to combat that stress.

“Many LGBTQIA+ students are not out

to their families, so when it’s time for

commencement, they have to go back in the closet and hide who they are,”

Clements said. “Lavender Graduation

gives them the chance to celebrate their

accomplishments as their authentic selves

with people who support and accept those identities.”

Abbi Gierer, senior special education

student and former Prism president, was this year’s speaker at the graduation.

“I loved Lavender Graduation this year,

Reece sais. “For the first two years, the

I think it is a great way for us to honor

Dance. Their smiles really make all the

recognized in a safe space and celebrate all

highlight was always Second Chance hard work to put it on worth it.”

our graduates in a way that they can be of their identities as well,” Gierer said.

Campus Resurrected

ANNA FURNEY Reporter

On April 1, the McClure Archives and

University Museum partnered to lead a Historic Tour of Ghost Buildings of the Great Fire on campus. This tour

served as part of University of Central

Missouri’s 150th anniversary celebration, and highlighted the history and growth throughout the university’s existence.

The event was open to the public and

encouraged the community to learn

the history of UCM’s campus from its

founding in 1871 to the present day and focused on the vast changes that have occurred.

The walking tour began at the James

C. Kirkpatrick Library and ended in the

Quadrangle, in front of the Administration Building. While the crowd was led around campus, facts were given about each building.

Many non-academic buildings were

built in the mid-1900s. The University

Health Center was built in the 1950s and was originally meant to help World War II veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder. The Elliott Student Union

was constructed in 1962, and it became overcrowded as a student activities

center. Its namesake is after former UCM President Ed Elliott for his responsibility in its amenities and multiple additions.

The first dormitories on campus were

Yeater, which was the women’s dorm, and Deemer for the men. These are located on opposite sides of campus in order to keep

Many Warrensburg community members, UCM alumni and current students and faculty attended the campus ghost tour event. The event was part of the university’s sesquicentennial celebration. Previous campus buildings were outlined using solar lights and caution tape. Photo by Lauryn Morrow

men and women separate. Both buildings are now out of service due to structural hazards including asbestos.

One of the main focuses of the tour

was to acknowledge how the fire of 1915 affected the campus. Caution tape and

solar-powered garden lights were used to show areas of campus where some of the original buildings once stood, including

Old Main. Old Main was the university’s first building, which completed

construction in 1882. Everything on

campus took place in this building, and

the top floor was the library. In the 1915 fire, Old Main was completely burned to the ground. Two other buildings, Humphreys and Dockery, were also

damaged, but they were restored and are still used on campus.

Opinions

6 Muleskinner • Vol. 114 • Issue 7 • April 23, 2021

Goodbye Graduates Cancel Culture is Harmful Skye Melcher has worked for the

Muleskinner since 2019. She started as a

Reporter

editor and distribution coordinator. She a

nation, and its results are striking.

her direct reports and bringing together

cancel culture as “a modern internet

reporter, but this year she was the features

Cancel culture is sweeping the

strong presence in the newsroom, coaching

The Urban Dictionary defines

the Muleskinner team on distribution days.

phenomenon where a person is

Market to occasionally punching Nick,

questionable actions … caused by a

together. This semester she’s grown

to judge and slow to question.”

significantly, a leader, who’s always willing

publicly ostracized for saying or doing

From sharing grazing boxes from Meyer’s

Skye helps bring the Muleskinner team as a writer, photographer, and most to help others.

Sydney Baynham has been the

Muleskinner promotions manager for a

year. She continuously updates the social media accounts, increases followers and

strategically shares Muleskinner content.

She has helped increase our average

analytic from zero readers to over 5,000

readers a month just on the website alone.

She greatly contributed to our application

for the SNO Audience Engagement badge,

and coordinated getting our staff trained to use Hootsuite. Sydney is a beautiful person inside and out and always contributes a great personality to the team.

Nick Distefano joined the Muleskinner

team in fall 2020 as part of the distribution team, and he’s been involved as a video

producer. He has been an integral addition to the team. His laugh is contagious,

and his attitude changes the newsroom

environment. He is the best distribution

child that a newsroom can have (according to Skye). Alongside being part of a team,

Nick also learned about leading a team this semester as he worked to create the We

Are UCM video projects. He has improved

his reporting and storytelling skills. and he always manages to make everyone laugh.

This semester was Adam Sullens’s first

with the Muleskinner, but during his

involvement, he managed to add creativity to the newspaper with his illustrations. He

created our comics and added drawings to

multiple stories from wrestling and ending menstruation stigma to cancel culture and retrenchment. Another amazing

contribution from Adam was his creation

of a new logo. He was always impressively fast sending in content for both print

and online articles. We’re all excited to see what he continues to create after

graduation, and we will all miss seeing his artwork in the newspaper.

ANNA FURNEY

Comic by Adam Sullens

ejected from influence or fame by

critical mass of people who are quick In other words, people are being

something that is deemed politically incorrect.

People’s futures are being determined

by younger generations based on past

mistakes, which sometimes have taken place several years ago and no longer reflect the person’s current behavior.

While it is never okay to be racist or

discriminatory, it is also not okay to destroy someone’s life because they did something wrong. Of course, if the person committed an actual crime, this would be a different story, but people who have simply posted

Illustration by Adam Sullens

strikes. Once something is deemed out of date, it is viciously attacked. While these

persons who decide what to cancel believe they are helping society, the results are hurting people.

This is unacceptable. Freedom of

or liked an offensive joke or starred in a

speech and expression is one of the First

are losing their livelihoods.

and cancel culture is stripping citizens of

movie that is now interpreted differently Sometimes the meaning of words,

phrases or ideologies change over time. For example, from a historian’s perspective,

the words “conversative” and “liberal” did not mean what they mean today. About

Amendment rights promised to Americans, those rights. People are also ignoring the fact that humans make mistakes. Cancel culture is taking away this element of

humanity — of learning from mistakes.

Instead of attacking others, people should

100 years ago, “conversative” ideologies

use this time as an opportunity to educate,

and “liberal” to the Republican Party.

offensive, politely inform them that their

were attributed to the Democrat Party,

Nowadays, almost anyone knows that is

the opposite in current American politics.

This is an important concept to understand when discussing cancel culture, because

when the meaning of something changes over time, it might not hold the same

significance today as when it was created.

Consequently, this is how cancel culture

not punish. If someone says something

words are hurtful or not appropriate. If people discover someone’s racist past,

they should acknowledge that people can

change. People are no longer promoting a

loving environment that helps others when

they screw up. If people only ever condemn and ostracize others for making mistakes, they can never properly grow and learn.

Sports

Muleskinner 7 • Vol. 114 • Issue 7 • April 23, 2021

Athletic Department’s “Shooby” Battles Cancer MEAH COPELAND Sports Editor Assistant Athletic Director for

Development, Michelle Schubert, is

battling breast cancer. Throughout her

journey, she has had a big support group, including her husband, children, the

Shooby Strong nation, cancer survivors, friends, coaches and co-workers.

She has also received support from the university community as the athletic

department has organized fundraisers.

Schubert got her first mammogram on

Nov. 3, and then had a biopsy. She was

diagnosed with breast cancer on Nov. 20, 2020, and she started her chemotherapy treatment at the end of December.

Schubert is on round nine of 12 for chemotherapy.

Schubert was born in Warrensburg,

Missouri. She went to Warrensburg High School, attended Central Missouri State

University and graduated in 1999 with a human resource management degree. In

2017, Schubert got her master’s degree in sports management from UCM. Schubert

started working for the university in 2000 and has been working for the athletic

department for the past 11 years. Her

job is to help with the Muletrain, annual fundraisers, tailgating before football

games, the booster club and be in contact with donors for scholarships. She usually works at home and comes in as needed.

At home, Schubert is a loving wife and

mother. Her husband of 22 years, Dan

Schubert, has been supportive throughout

The Shooby Strong nation

their marriage. She is a mom to four

has been supportive

Brent is eight years old, twins Addie and

They organized a

children — Brent, Addie, Eli and Cambrie.

Eli are four years old and Cambrie is two years old.

When Dan heard the news of Michelle’s

diagnosis, he said it was shocking, and he

was floored. He never thought they would go through this experience.

“Me and the kids are lucky to have

Michelle,” Dan said. “I look forward to

getting through this and giving back to

those who have helped us as much as we can once it is over.”

He said the biggest part of the approach

is faith and positivity and that Michelle is very positive because it’s in her nature.

After her chemotherapy is completed,

Schubert has decided to have a bilateral mastectomy in June, which is a surgical

procedure involving the removal of both

breasts. She said she will remove both so

At the first ceremonial pitch, Michelle threw the ball to

in many ways.

Northeastern player, freshman catcher

fundraiser on Feb.

Vic Leslie. Leslie’s

25 at Milestones

mother has also

Barn to assist

been battling

with travel and

breast cancer.

treatment costs.

After the toss,

Stormy Taylor,

they hugged to

recorder of deeds

show support for

at the Johnson

each other.

County Courthouse,

Photo by Lauyrn Morrow

has known Michelle for

18 years and helped with

getting the fundraiser started. She

“For me, I do like to share

because I do believe in the power of

helped with creating the t-shirts, bracelets,

prayer and I do believe the more people

raffle, which is counting down to Michelle’s

I just believe that it helps,” Schubert said.

the Shooby Strong auction and an online

last day of chemo. The women’s basketball and softball teams have also been

supportive in regards to fundraising.

“Michelle is one of the most giving and

that are sending all of the positive energy, “I’ve always been a positive person and I always have been.”

Throughout her battle, Psalms 31:25 has

been a reassuring reminder of her faith and

she will not have to worry about cancer in

probably the sweetest person I’ve ever

“It’s nice to have support cause it keeps

and kind heart is definitely the reason

‘laughs without fear of the future’, because

much.”

breast cancer,” Schubert said. “I am not

the other breast in the future.

your spirits up,” Schubert said.

When Schubert was thinking about

a group name for her supporters, she

known,” Taylor said. “Her personality

that everyone knows her and loves her so Taylor said Michelle is more positive on

could not think of anything that suited

her bad days than most people are on their

Mike Nicholson, the women’s assistant

Schubert has a deep connection with

her, until she thought of the texts from basketball coach, where he called her “Shoobydoo.”

“It was Shoobydoo, then it became

Shooby Strong,” Nicholson said.

good days.

religion and said her faith is the reason

support.

“There’s a part of the verse that says

I’m very optimistic, and I don’t fear this

fear-filled. But I am hope-filled, and I think

if I can share that message that I am strong I’m gonna be fine with this and it’s all good.”

Schubert said she believes everything

why she can beat cancer. She also has

happens for a reason. She does not worry

website, where she updates her progress.

day at a time and enjoying life.

her support group and her Caring Bridge

about the future but is just taking it one

Illustration by Adam Sullens

Family has been supportive throughout her journey. Left to right: Michelle’s uncle Bud Tarrillion, aunt Karren Tarrillion, Michelle, her children Brent, Addie,

No one fights alone.

Eli, Cambrie and husband Dan. Photo Submitted by Michelle Schubert

www.blackwaterbarberco.com

blackwaterbarberco

Appointments preferred, Walk-ins welcome!

Michelle’s friends came by her house to drop off a gift basket. Left to Right: Jana Lagis, Renee Anthuis, Michelle Schubert and Robin Wenzl. Photo Submitted by Michelle Schubert

Sports

8 Muleskinner • Vol. 114 • Issue 7 • April 23, 2021

Senior Spotlight: Alex Madera

EMILY DICKMEIER

Madera since becoming part of the team.

Reporter & Photographer From the Dutch Caribbean Island of

Curacao, Enrique “Alex” Madera has

been playing baseball since he was eight

years old. Because Curacao doesn’t have

organized high school or college baseball,

he would practice by stretching and taking some ground balls. He played baseball at North Central Missouri College for two

years, and is now a starting shortstop for the University of Central Missouri.

Madera said the conversations he had

with Coach Kyle Crookes impacted his decision to come to UCM. He felt that

Crookes’s values of hard work synced up with his own.

“When I first talked to the coaches and

came to visit here, I really felt this was a good place for me,” Madera said. “I just knew I’m going to come here, and I’m going to get better.”

He said he was surprised to see how

strong and talented everyone around him is at the university.

“Coming from where I came, you don’t

see a team with the same focus, the same strength, the same mindset.” Madera

said. “When I came here, I found that I know I can rely on every single one of my teammates, and they would be as hardworking as I am.”

Junior outfielder Brennen van Breusegen

has built a strong relationship with

“He’s the bigger brother I never had,”

Vanbreusegen said. “He’s always kind of held me under his wing when it comes to keeping level-headed and maturing in the game and outside of the field.”

Madera has been 2,000

miles away from his family in Curacao for more than

a year, and the way he has handled the distance is

impressive to not only his

teammates but also his coach.

“He’s a consistent positive

energy force regardless of the circumstances,” Crookes said. “For a lot of

people it would be

challenging, but he’s thrived.”

Madera is a

Athletic Staff Safe ZAYIN BARNES

“I think there’s more to him certainly

than just baseball,” Crookes said. “He’s extremely intelligent when it comes to what he does for school.”

Madera said he finds something new every day to keep life

exciting. When he isn’t at practice or in class, he is

Reporter While retrenchment is affecting many

areas on campus, the athletic department is safe from retrenchment because the

employees are staff rather than faculty.

Retrenchment is the reduction of costs

or spending in response to economic

difficulty, and it was enacted this year

gaming or listening to

because of five-year enrollment decline.

being away from his family

does not affect any finances or expenses.

Hispanic rap music. After

for so long, he said he is

excited to go home after his

graduation this spring.

“From there, I’m just

looking for work or anything God

has planned for me,”

Madera said.

According to the athletic department, it However, COVID-19 has affected the

athletic department in multiple ways.

It canceled fall sports, pushed team

practiced to later dates, delayed seasons and affected the way teams travel.

Jerry Hughes, UCM vice president of

intercollegiate athletics, said, “They wear their masks when they travel and as

often as they can. During the early part

of the fall, we had some athletes that got COVID, so it affected them by not being

computer science

able to practice for 10-14 days. Some

at the end of the

into the flow because it affected their

major graduating

of them took a little longer to get back

2021 spring

respiratory system.”

loves working

restrictions and protocols are moving

semester. He

With UCM students getting vaccinated,

with computers

toward becoming more flexible.

any problem

more,” Hughes said. “A lot of our athletes

across.

and more readily available for students.”

and solving he comes

“This spring, it has opened up a little bit

have gotten shots as they become more

Muleskinner Staff: Staff: Mission Statement: Statement: Managing Editor.................................................... Bethany Spitzmiller Mission Managing Editor............................................... Bethany Spitzmiller The Muleskinner is a monthly student newspaper is a monthly student newspaper in the in the Advertising Manager................................................... Mya Richardson The Muleskinner Communication Department the UCMofand operates Communication Department at the at University Central News Editor...................................................... Matthew Goldsmith in association with the Digital Media Production News Editor............................................................... Madelyn HarrisonMissouri and operates in association with the Digital Media program.

It is a Itnews lab forlab students. program. is a news for students.

FeaturesEditor...........................................................

Editor.................................................................

MelcherProduction Features Skye Skye Melcher Sports Editor.......................................................... Matthew Goldsmith Sports Editor...........................................................Meah Copeland Muleskinner Minute Manager........................................... Carley Taylor Letter to Editor: Promotions Manager............................................ Sydney Baynham Letters to Editor: Copy Chief......................................................................... Louie Sharp Letters to the editor are encouraged. Typed or legibly Illustrators.................................................................. Adam Sullens be submitted to the Muleskinner by Letterswritten to theletters editor may are encouraged from students, Design Chief.................................................................... Katelyn Orenfacultyemail at Muleskinner@ucmo.edu or may be mailed and alumni. Typed or legibly written letters may beor Photographer............................

Lauryn Morrow & Emily Dickmeier Illustrator..................................................................

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Include your legal name andnot Photographer............................................................ Tyler Langenberg phonebe printed.

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Letters should be printed. The Muleskinner reserves the right to edit letters Reporters...................................... Meah Copeland, Nicholas Thomas,for style, brief, self-edited and must beshould received Monday content or length.

Letters be by brief, self- the Faculty Adviser..........................................................

Dr. Julie Lewis Paige McKinsey, Annelia Nixon, Isaac Reeveseditedweek before Muleskinner comes out and must bepublication. received byThe Monday the week before once a month. publication. The Muleskinner comes out once a month.

Faculty Adviser.............................................................. Dr. Julie Lewis

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