Muleskinner
New Policy Adds Alcoholic Drinks at Game Day Concessions for Fans
MALYNN PIERCE
Staff Reporter
The University of Central Missouri has introduced alcohol sales at athletic events for the Fall 2024 semester. The UCM football game on Sept. 7 solidified the new policy, introducing a variety of alcoholic beverages to attendees. The university states in its release that the new policy is meant to improve the fan experience while simultaneously keeping the environment engaging and family-friendly.
“Alcohol sales is one thing that fans obviously said in the season ticket surveys that they wanted and would like to see more of, and we’re using that to elevate the fan experience,” Matt Howdeshell, UCM Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics said.
Athletic events where this new policy will be implemented include football, volleyball, baseball, and men’s and women’s basketball games. Drinks will be served in 12-ounce portions with no more than two beverages per transaction. For football games, alcohol will only be sold at the southwest concession stand near the main entrance to ensure guest safety. The location of drink sales at other athletic events is forthcoming.
Drinks are available to those aged 21 and over. All fans will be subject to carding and be required to wear a wristband after their purchase.
“Public Safety works in partnership with [UCM] Athletics and with their contracted security during football games. Public Safety has regularly been present at baseball, volleyball, and other events. We will now be assigning a dedicated officer to work overtime for events that include alcohol sales. We have made adjustments to incorporate the new policy,” UCM Public Safety Officer Chief Bill Brinkley said.
“The longer it goes, the more it becomes normal, and the more it becomes normal for everyone. Especially as we’re able to show there were no related alcohol issues,” Howdeshell said.
UCM will take the money earned from sales through its vendor Sodexo and through its partnership with sponsors and put it back into the athletic programs.
“When it comes to the financial benefits, those go directly back to the athletic department to support our student-athletes in their pursuit of academic and athletic excellence,” Howdeshell said.
The cost for a drink at a football game is $6. Students have differing opinions on the cost of a drink.
“If you want to get your money’s worth, it is a little expensive for college students. Understandable because it’s the only place [where] you can get alcohol,” Senior Emily Dowd said.
Senior Gabe Riggs said, “The cost is appropriate for a college game.”
UCM has a rich athletic culture, with several sports teams to watch and events to attend.
“With the alcohol involved, it may get a little rowdy, but it will help people get excited and out of their shell,” Dowd said.
Health Code Protocols Strive for Safe Todd and Ellis Dining
TRUJILLO
KAIA
Opinions
Editor
Many believe providing a safe environment for the University of Central Missouri students is a priority for UCM’s dining services. Tinashe Dzvurumi, Director of Operations at Sodexo, believes providing a safe environment requires a multi-faceted approach with an established set of protocols across various parts of the dining halls. He also believes it is important to connect with students’ needs.
“When students raise a concern as far as food safety or quality, we try to correct them immediately,” Dzvurumi said. Dzvurumi says an important component of any overall college safety strategy is having a food safety plan for onsite food service facilities.
There are two dining halls at UCM, Ellis Dining Hall and Todd Dining Hall. These halls are the main cafeterias for many students on campus, as first and second-year students are required to have a UCM dining hall meal plan. The food at both dining halls is supplied by Sodexo, a global food service and facilities management company that professionally caters to college campuses around the region.
Many students find they have differing experiences throughout the two dining halls.
“I never expect the experience to be stellar, but I don’t expect to find stuff in my food….but typically it isn’t terrible,” Sophomore Leo Gershner said.
Other students are more satisfied with their experiences. “I think both [dining halls] are fine. They are pretty clean considering the amount of traffic they receive,” Sophomore Katherine Hamilton said.
According to Dzvurumi, various regulations and procedures are in place to ensure health and safety in university
Sodexo services have third parties that come to the UCM campus dining halls and inspect the food and environments.
Food Code for the Food Establishments of the State of Missouri, a Food Safety Code
safe, unadulterated and honestly presented. EcoSure and Johnson County’s Health and Food Safety
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They inspect twice a semester. Internally, these organizations have systems in place to record temperatures and food safety standards.
dining halls. UCM’S Dining by
According to the Missouri
functions to safeguard public health
provide food that is
both come
inspect the UCM dining halls.
Patrons stand at the bar located just past the north end zone during the first Mules home football game on Sept. 7. This marks the first time that alcohol has been served at football games, as well as the first time patrons have been able to watch from this area.
Photo by Braeden Sholes
Students wait in line for meals at Todd Dining Hall on Sept. 12. Located in Todd Dining Hall is a food option called Trends which offers a rotating menu of made to order meals during lunch time. Photo by Anthony Rey
International Students Attend the Power of the Vote Event
NICK CROWDER
Staff Reporter
The University of Central Missouri’s Center for Multiculturalism and Inclusivity hosted the Power of Your Vote event on Sept. 9. The event, which was organized in partnership with the American Democracy Project and the UCM Counseling Center, aimed to not only address some of the biggest questions facing young voters today but also register those in attendance to vote. While many domestic students attended the event, a large number of international students were also present.
“Even though I’m not eligible to vote as an international student, I believe deeply in the power of voting. I want to help others recognize that they have a voice that can drive real change. I’m passionate about ensuring that people, especially students, understand the impact they can make by simply showing up and casting a vote,” Praise Ayodele Ayomide, an international graduate student who helped organize the event, said.
Students were presented with questions about voting and how it relates to them personally Many international students in attendance offered their thoughts about the United States’ upcoming presidential election and voting in general.
“Events like this are crucial for students because they offer insights into how political systems function in different parts of the world and highlight the seriousness with which voting should be taken and its impact,” Shravya Baddam, an international graduate student, said. “Engaging in this election provides students a chance to have a say in decisions that will shape their academic and professional futures.”
Faculty members also weighed in on the importance of utilizing one’s right to vote. “Civic engagement is important for everyone. Helping students understand the importance of their vote and what it means to their future is part of getting a holistic education,” Lover Chancler, Director of the Center for Multiculturalism and Inclusivity, said. After the event ended, students were encouraged to register to vote on site with the help of organizers. “[Voting is] such a simple act, but it has the potential to create real change,” Ayodele said.
MULESKINNERStaff
Sadie Staker , Editor-in-Chief
Darby Mostaffa , Managing Editor
Aaron Bax , Spot News Editor
Braeden Sholes , Multimedia Manager
Vinaydeep Ambati , Promotions
Manager
Ella Bland , Sports Editor
Linda Alviar , News Editor
Kaia Trujillo , Opinions Editor
Dr. Julie Lewis , Faculty Adviser
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The Muleskinner is a student-led news lab in the communication department at the University of Central Missouri and operates in association with the digital media production program. All text, photography and other content are property of the Muleskinner and may not be reproduced without permission. The Muleskinner reserves the right to edit any submitted material or refuse to print such material. Letters to the editor are encouraged from students, faculty and alumni. Typed or legibly written letters can be submitted by email at muleskinner@ ucmo.edu or can be mailed or hand-delivered to the Muleskinner newsroom at 203 East Clark Street, Warrensburg, Missouri 64093, which is in Wood building, room 312. Include your legal name and phone number for verification. Letters should be brief, self-edited and must be received by Monday the week before publication. The Muleskinner prints once a month.
Students attend a presentation explaining the power of their vote hosted by UCM’s Center for Multiculturalism and Inclusivity and American Democracy Project on Sept. 9. During this presentation both domestic and international students shared their perspectives on voting in America and in other countries. Photo by Braeden Sholes
4 FEATURES Muleskinner
Autumn Crossword
WYATT ZIRKLE
1. You may wear this around your neck once the weather cools
4. Grass to use as fodder
5. John Carpenter’s 1978 horror classic
9. Mysterious, strange, or unexpected as to send a chill up the spine
10. You may say ________ on October 31st 13. A sign of dissaproval or scare 14. A spirit, spectre, or phantom
One may call a witch a _______
An expression of alarm, horror,or suprise
Natural movement of air
Beginning in September and ending December
The gathering of the crops
A celebration of Alumni with a parade, a game, and a rally
A shared community of people
A sudden attack of fright
Tossing the ol’ pigskin
Yard work, associated with autumn
An outfit worn to alter one’s appearance to look as another person or thing
15. A warm dish often made during the fall season
September’s Artist of the Month: Sammy Como
DARBY
MOSTAFFA
Managing Editor
Sammy Como is a University of Central Missouri senior majoring in art-graphic design. She has been creating art for as long as she can remember. As a child, Como was always found with paper and markers, drawing whenever she could.
“I loved painting and drawing growing up. I have now turned more digital but still love creating things with my hands,” Como said.
She finds inspiration for her art from a little bit of everything.
“I love going to different stores and places to get inspiration about colors, subjects for my next art piece, and typography from restaurants,” Como said. “I also like scrolling on Pinterest and Instagram for art inspiration.”
Want to be featured next month? Apply through our Instagram!
ETHAN TAPER Staff Reporter
The University of Central Missouri offers many travel abroad opportunities. Many students and staff involved in the study abroad program believe these opportunities are important for learning a global perspective.
“Being the other in another place, getting a feeling of what that’s like, just really opens a lot of doors,” Study Abroad Coordinator Matt Chiesi said.
Along with staff members, many students encourage others to embrace the travel opportunities at UCM. Sydney Roberts, a senior who had the opportunity to study in Roehampton University, London, explained how her time there differed from life in Missouri.
“It was very urban, there were lots of different restaurants, I was a thirty-minute walk from the city-city, so it was really cool to be able to see so much culture,” Roberts said.
“Go study abroad!” Junior Michael Harlow, another student at UCM who had the opportunity to travel abroad to Spain, said.
Because world travel can be unaffordable, many study abroad opportunities are funded by the school, organizations, or scholarships, so the financial burden on students can be significantly decreased.
“I think one thing that UCM does to make these opportunities possible is that there’s financial support, there’s international study grants, there’s scholarships available, including especially the Global Visions scholarship, which would actually pay for the whole program,” Cheisi said.
According to Chiesi, many study abroad opportunities are available through instructors, flyers, e-mails, and the study abroad website. Students can submit applications and receive more information at open advising sessions in the Center for Global Education, which occur every Tuesday through Thursday from 1 to 4 p.m. From there, trips are organized by faculty, organizations and volunteers.
Non-Music Majors March with Marching Mules Band Study Abroad Brings Worlds Closer Together
AARON BAX
Spot News Editor
The University of Central Missouri Marching Mules has a tradition of accepting members of all majors. While many of its members are music education or music technology majors, the vast majority are pursuing different academic paths.
These students are found in various positions throughout the band, from section leaders to players. They join for a variety of reasons. Many participate as a way to meet people with similar interests. Many others take part because they enjoyed marching in high school. One of the non-music majors, Front Ensemble Section Leader Brook Elliott, a junior, says she joined partially as a stress-reliever from her statistics major.
“I did it in high school and statistics can be stressful. Math can be stressful. Math can suck. And I use music as my stress-reliever and my escape from it,” Elliott said.
Non-music majors also enjoy taking part in the different parts of marching band. Alongside the performing and practicing, band members have fun in the stands cheering for the UCM Mules football team every home game. For junior Olivia Bodenstad, a trombone section leader and digital media productions major, cheering is one of the best parts.
“[My favorite part is] football games,” Bodenstad said. “Foot ball games are awesome. We all get to go nuts, and nobody cares because we’re all doing it together.”
Many non-music majors also see being a Marching Mule as a way to engage in activities they would not be able to do otherwise.
Through marching band, these students get a chance to travel, discover new friend groups outside of their major and form bond s with people across campus.
Some non-music majors also use marching band as a chance to practice the skills they learn through their majors. Junior Noa h Neil is one such example. Neil, a digital media production majo r, is the social media manager for the Marching Mules. Through the marching band, Neil gets to put the skills they learned through their major to the test.
“My major is what allows me to really understand how to take good photos and videos and edit them together,” Neil said. “I do a lot of things as social media manager, but one of the things I take the most pride in is the videos that I make for Tiktok and Instagram and such, and editing those, and the videography behind it , and some of the cool photos I get, and all those are things I l earned in my class.”
In the end, however, all of the marching mules’ reasons for being in the band came down to one: It is a fun activity and group in which to belong.
“If marching band wasn’t fun, why would you do it?” Elliott asked. “It’s hot, it’s sweaty, but it’s worth it, because there’s a great sense of community. And it is fun. It’s a nice stress reliever. It’s just a good, good experience to be in.”
UCM students visit booths to learn more about opportunities at the Study Abroad Fair held at the UCM Student Union on Sept. 11. The Study Abroad Fair is held every year and offers students a chance to learn about different opportunities available to them to go study in a different country.
Photo By Ethan Thompson
Students visit tables representing schools or programs in different countries set up in the UCM Student Union on Sept. 11 as part of the Study Abroad Fair. The Study Abroad Fair is an event held on campus to help inform students about the different possibilities available to them to travel abroad.
Photo by Braeden Sholes
Members of the UCM Band perform outside the football stadium as part of the Get The Red Out celebration on Sept. 7. The UCM band is composed of both music and non-music majors and performs at most football games. Photo by Braeden Sholes
UCM’s Annual “Get the Red Out” Event
UCM students, along with the Warrensburg community gather on South Holden St. on Sept. 7, 2024 for “Get The Red Out”. Set up on both sides of Holden were booths from local businesses and student organizations wanting to make themselves known to the Warrensburg community. “Get The Red” out happens every year in conjunction with the first UCM Mules football teams home game.
Photo by Braeden Sholes
The band Jayson Orr and Shop Band play at the “Get The Red Out” event on Sept. 7. The band includes Brandon Spencer, Sarahbeth Michael, Jayson Orr, Rodney Gamble, and Gabe Gamble. “Get the Red Out” provides opportunities for bands to perform and garner publicity. Photo by Ryan Techau
Madison Dolato happily pies Matthew Mcilvoy and Justin Miller t o raise money at “Get The Red Out” event. “Get The Red Out” creates opportunities for groups and charity organiza -
tions to raise money and be recognized. Photo by Ryan Techau
OPINIONS
Kamala Harris Uses Brat Summer Trend to Bolster Campaign
RILEY KING Staff Reporter
If there was one album to describe this past summer, it would be Brat by Charlie XCX. The high-energy club classics of the album quickly spread in popularity across the internet through TikTok dances and viral memes, establishing a memory for the summer.
The word “brat” usually implies a negative connotation towards someone’s attitude. After this summer, Charlie XCX has changed the meaning. According to the Pop Culture Dictionary, “the word brat refers to someone who is confidently rebellious, unapologetical ly bold, and playfully defiant.”
Kamala Harris experienced Brat Summer to its full effect. Harris not only acknowledged the trend of being “Brat” but she embrace d it as well. When Harris was officially nominated to be the Democratic party candidate for the Presidential election, her HQ team on X (formerly known as Twitter), used the the bright brat green and arial font of Charlie’s album for her account’s header.
The HQ team’s use of the “Brat” trend led to the creation of goofy TikTok edits of Harris dancing to “Apple” by Charlie XCX.
Another popular meme of Harris involved a moment from a speech at a White House ceremony in which she states, “You think you just fell out of a coconut tree? You exist in the context of all in which you live and what came before you.” Following her presidency nomination, some supporters have called her candidacy, “Operation Coconut Tree.”
Meghana Offers Advice to International Graduate Students
SREE MEGHANA REDDY CHINTALA Staff Reporter
Dear
Readers,
I am Meghana Reddy, a master’s student from the computer science department and an international student from India. I am going to share my master’s experience and offer advice to fellow international students who are new to the University of Central Missouri.
It was my dream to study overseas so that I could explore myself and understand who I am without my family beside me. Initially, I thought getting an admittance letter from the college and a clearing Visa interview would accomplish my goal, but in reality, this was just the beginning of my journey. Once you land in America to pursue your masters, your real journey begins.
I was excited to be admitted to UCM because it is a college that provides wide international exposure. It was interesting to meet new people by attending the welcome party and signing up for different clubs like the Muleskinner, rock climbing, and clay making. I suggest everyone visit events organized by the college to gain international exposure.
It was difficult to adjust to the weather changes, as I arrived in the spring semester while it was snowing. My first snowfall experience was magical, but it was still quite a task to go to college in such extreme weather conditions. I advise all international students who are coming in the spring to pack scarfs, hats, gloves, boots, thermals, and winter coats in your luggage.
As international students, we are learning many things at once - how to be independent, how to socialize and how to manage our finances. At the same time, we must complete academic assignments and part-time work. We can maintain balance between our academics, work and household chores by setting priorities, creating a schedule and asking our friends for help when needed. You will face new challenges every day, but eventually, you will learn all of the skills you need to survive.
What does it mean for Harris to be “Brat”? For one of the first times in history, a presidential nominee understands the power of the younger generation and their connection with memes and has used this in an extremely effective way to promote their campaign. When President Joe Biden dropped out of the presidential race in late July, there was an underlying panic in the Democratic Party. No one truly knew who Harris was beyond being the Vice President with a contagious laugh. Harris’s team knew exactly what they were doing when they decided to embrace internet trends and use what the younger generation enjoys, as they successfully popularized her campaign and interested younger people in voting.
Harris and her team have changed the way future presidential campaigns will be presented. Younger people have become interested in Harris and for the first time in a long time, the younger generation feels like they are being listened to.
If Harris keeps up with the trends, more people will be eager to learn, register and vote in early November.
Meghana
an international student studying
UCM,
at a desk in the James C Kirkpatrick Library where she studies for class. Reddy believes that setting a routine can be difficult but is important for academic success, as it helps her face daily challenges. Photos by Molly Suthoff
Bottom: Meghana Reddy enjoys her time on the rock wall at the UCM Student Recreation and Wellness Center. Reddy expresses the importance of getting out and interacting with fellow students and taking part in campus events and activities. Photo by Molly Suthoff
In order to make friends, you should attend campus events, join student organizations and reach out to classmates. I personally believe that we need to step out of our comfort zone to make friends. By befriending different people from different backgrounds, you can learn a lot, as everyone has their own viewpoint of life. The most exciting part of making friends is that they are your family from now onwards. Domestic students might not be aware of the challenges international students face. In order to help international students feel welcome at UCM, domestic students can connect with international students by attending multicultural events or joining global organizations on campus. Domestic students can also encourage international students by being open and willing to learn from their perspectives. A small effort can make a big difference. Leaving home is not easy. We feel sad and miss our family, friends, food and old way of life. While we feel less sad with time, we never stop missing what we once had. However, pursuing a master’s degree from UCM has made me mentally strong and given me a path to enhance my skills. Let’s all manifest that we can overcome our struggles, improve our academics, land our dream jobs, and make our parents proud, for the future and towards the future.
Graphic by Nate Sullens
Top:
Reddy,
at
sits
OPINIONS
Chappell Roan Changes Fan Culture
MEDLOCK
REAGAN
Staff Reporter
Kayleigh Rose Amstutz, who goes by the stage name “Chappell Roan,” has recently experienced an explosive gain in fame. Hailing from the town of Willard, Mo., she has stood out from other artists with her unique production style and unwavering support for queer communities. After putting out music for seven years, it was only a matter of time before she gained the acclaim she deserved. However, that acclaim came with some troubles. This past July, Roan was a guest on The Comment Section podcast, where she revealed she was going to “pump the brakes” on her career. Why would this rising star do that? The simple answer: stalker fans.
The conversation surrounding parasocial relationships has grown over the last few years. A parasocial relationship is defined as a one-sided relationship that a consumer of pop culture has with an artist, even though the artist does not know the fan. Even though parasocial relationships are not necessarily harmful, sometimes they lead fans to feel entitled to an interaction or relationship with a famous artist in a way that crosses the bounds of privacy.
While there have always been fans who are obsessed with their favorite musician or actor, the stunts some of them have pulled in recent years have made being famous dangerous. Artists like Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish have had stalkers who have tried and succeeded to break into their homes. The queen of Tejano music, Selena, was murdered by the president of her own fan club. Roan is no exception, as she has already revealed that a stalker showed up in her NYC hotel, her dad’s phone number was leaked, and she was grabbed and forcefully kissed at a bar. All of these experiences were no doubt playing in the back of Chappell Roan’s mind when she made the decision to slow down her career.
with said artist. In a TikTok and Instagram post, Roan further explained that she is not comfortable with people walking up to her on the street and asking for a photo. She compared it to “coming up to a random lady” and demanding a picture with that lady. It is a very normal thing nowadays to ask a celebrity for a picture, but when they say no, it becomes a scandal. Plenty of artists have been labeled as rude or unappreciative just by simply saying no to a picture with a fan.
It is important to note that Roan has security now, like many celebrities. But Roan is doing more than passively walking through life surrounded by guards; she is actively defending herself. While she was attending the VMA’s earlier this month, she yelled back at a photographer who was shouting vulgar words at her. She also carried a folded fan with her and would cover her mouth whenever she was talking to a fellow artist so no one could go online, lip read the video and share her private conversations.
Another way Roan defends herself is by seeing her music as her job. Kayleigh Rose Amstutz is Chappell Roan, but Chappell Roan is not Kayleigh Rose Amstutz. By setting her own work-life balance, she is able to differentiate her public persona and her actual self. While these tactics have been used by other celebrities in the past, Roan speaking out and advocating for herself has recently made a big impact in the public’s conversation surrounding fan culture.
It is not just the stalkers that cause problems. Even fans who say they respect their favorite artists often feel entitled to a picture or an interaction
A
In a world where stalking and harassing celebrities is almost normal, it is important to look at what our favorite artists have to say. Trying to be “closer” to a celebrity or demand an interaction with them is not what fans should be doing. It is weird and it distracts from the artists’ accomplishments and bodies of work that they have put into the world. Someone who simply wants to create art and share it with people deserves to be treated like a normal person. Roan speaking out has already turned the internet upside down. More people are talking about parasocial relationships than ever before, which will hopefully change the toxic fan culture we see today and keep our favorite artists safe. Graphic by Nate Sullens
Bittersweet Set of Studio One-Acts by UCM Theatre and Dance
Opinions Editor
On Sept. 12, 13 and 14, the University of Central Missouri’s Theatre and Dance Department showcased this semester’s studio one-act performances at the Black Box Theatre. This semester’s set of studio one-acts was titled “Remember When.” Four studio one-acts were performed, each with an overarching theme of dementia or death. The performances were directed by students.
The first studio one-act was called “Name” by Seth Kramer. It was directed by senior Paige Showen. In my opinion, this show had the best set dressing. The set consisted of a full living room, complete with a TV, couch, toys, movies, and magazines scattered about. This lively set caused me to feel immediate interest in the show. In contrast to the cheerful, relaxed setting, the actual story was not as peppy. The story followed a group of friends, two of whom were married and expecting a child soon and another who was clearly ill, with a pale face and oxygen tubes. While this show’s story was the hardest for me to follow of all the shows, but was still very heartfelt and contained a twinge of comedy, as the friend group joked around together.
The second studio one-act was “Good Morning Miriam” by Jacquelyn Priskorn. This show was directed by senior Finn Juliano and contained heavy themes centering around dementia and Alzheimer’s. The show opened with Miriam as her younger self. The scene then transitioned to a mirror where the audience saw an older version of Miriam replace the younger one. The scene repeats with older Miriam. It showcased the struggles of Miriam’s daughter as her mother loses her memories, as well as Miriam’s internal struggle with forgetting. In the end, young and old versions of Miriam argued over a “key” which symbolized Miriam’s memories. This show was heart-wrenching, as witnessing Miriam’s struggle and fight for her memories with her younger self was very emotional. Notably,
Showen stepped in at the last minute to play older Miriam, as one actress unfortunately had health problems after the show on Sept. 12. Seeing how incredible Showen’s performance was and knowing it was put together on such a short notice, I knew I had to mention it in this review.
The third studio one-act was “A Long Trip,” written by Dan McGeegan and directed by senior Emily Turner. This show had a simplicity that I appreciated and it also leaned heavily into themes of dementia. The show centered around two elderly people discussing their first kiss, and their younger selves went through the night of their first kiss as they told their story. The show was beautiful with a bittersweet ending and the simplicity of the set paired well with the story.
Finally, in a complete 180 degree flip from the tone of the previous show, the performances ended with “Annnd Scene (of the Crime)” by John Busser. This show was directed by senior Gracie Heath and was the perfect way to lighten the mood and leave everyone feeling less heavy as they left the theater. The show consisted of two detectives interrogating an improvisation performer about his friend’s mysterious death. The twist? The main detective had a bell that, when rung, forced the improvisation performer to change the genre in which he told the story. In a humorous performance, the improvisation performer went through soap opera, film noir, and slow-motion action scenes. There certainly was not a boring moment in this show.
Each of these studio performances was done well. Despite the dark themes, I did not leave the show feeling heavy, as the juxtaposition of the heart-wrenching moments and the comedic breaks kept the audience on their toes emotionally. Sadly, these performances are no longer showing, but I am looking forward to seeing UCM Theatre and Dance’s next show,
KAIA TRUJILLO
“She Kills Monsters” by Qui Nguyen, Oct. 3 to 6.
Left: From left, Student actors Allie Whitney and Dawson Black sit at the back of the room engaged in conversation while a silhouetted Lizzy Molina watches. The play, “A Long Trip,” was one of the UCM Studio One-Acts performed on Sept. 14 and 15 at the Nickerson Black Box Theatre. Photo submitted by Wesley Freeman Right: From top left, Audrey Shepherd, John Plasencio Chris Schilligo and Anna Fletcher celebrate a newborn on the way. The studio one-act “Name” was the first one-act to be performed on Sept. 14 and 15. Photo submitted by Wesley Freeman
Word-of-Mouth Sports
The Student Recreational and Wellness Center’s Tradition of Pick-Up Games Remains Strong
ELLA BLAND Sports Editor
There are many communities on campus that allow students to get involved and find their place, such as athletics. While most students are familiar with the University of Central Missouri’s varsity teams, fewer know about the pick-up game community and culture that ha s been present at UCM for years.
“I like playing ping pong with my friends,” Freshman Kyla Ken t said. “It’s added a sense of fun and excitement.”
These “word-of-mouth sports” occur in the Recreation and Wellness Center every day, providing the opportunity for all students to participate. Students looking to participate in pick-up games s imply need to show up at the Recreation and Wellness Center. The pick-up groups are most active around 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Popular pickup sports include basketball, badminton, volleyball, pickleball and ping pong.
“It’s positive to have students engaging with each other outside of the classroom,” Beth Rutt, Director of Student Activities and The Student Recreation and Wellness Center, said. “I think that’s where those relationships and memories are made; the ones that you remember about your collegiate experience.”
Participation in athletics benefits students on many levels, as physical activity can improve mental and physical health. The easy access to athletics provided by pick-up sports has promoted a h ealthy and friendly culture within the UCM student body.
“I have definitely gotten to know more people through experie nces like coming to the rec and playing basketball,” Junior Kannen Wilson said.
University
RILEY KING Staff Reporter
On Sept. 7, The University of Central Missouri Alumni Foundation and UCM Athletics celebrated the completion of the Terry Noland Football Office Complex remodel project.
UCM alumni, students, coaches, football players and community members gathered on the track at Audrey J. Walton Stadium for the rededication ceremony. The renovation project was a collaboration between UCM and private support, with more than 80 donors contrib uting to the facility. Multiple speakers honored Noland’s legacy. There was also a tour provided to visitors of the remodeled complex and a ribbon-cutting ceremony with President Roger Best and Noland.
Noland was the UCM football coach from 1983 to 1996. Noland amassed 78 wins, seven winning seasons, and four MIAA championships. He was named Coach of the Year in 1986 when the Mules won their first league championship crown since 1926. He created sta r players, sending nine players to the professional ranks. Noland was inducted into the UCM Hall of Fame in 2004.
At the ceremony, Noland was celebrated not only for his career but who he was as a person. Many people at the event had kind words to say about him, whether it was family or people who knew him fro m years before.
“Papa is very caring and loving. Any time we have family over, he usually is playing with the kids and not hanging out with the a dults, if that tells you anything about him,” Morgan Brinick, Noland’s granddaughter in-law, said. “This day is so special to all of us.”
UCM Head Football Coach Josh Lamberson was also one of the speakers at the event. When discussing the future, Lamberson recognized Noland’s legacy and how to maintain it among the current football men.
“Noland’s legacy is to inspire our players to become more than they can even imagine and to take the lessons they learn while they are in this season of life and apply them to the situations they will experience when they become husbands, fathers and leaders of their own com munities,” Lamberson said.
UCM Alumni Events Coordinator Morgan Starbuck believes the community is strengthened by the remodel project. Starbuck was rai sed in Warrensburg and she continues to live and work in her hometown.
“The Terry Noland remodel is going to offer a way for the community’s pride to grow. It’s giving the football team and the football staff the resources they need to work on taking their skills to the n
ext level,” Starbuck said.
From left, Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Matt Howdeshell, Mules Football Head Coach Josh Lamberson, donor and alumnus David Neuenschwander, former coach Terry Noland, Vice President for Advancement and Alumni Foundation Executive Director Courtney Goddard and President Roger Best celebrate the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Terry Noland Football Office Complex. Terry Noland was the head coach for the UCM football team from 1983 to 1996 during which Noland amassed 78 wins, seven winning seasons, and four MIAA championships. Photo by Anthony Rey
Top: Ryan Heidrich and Reeece Troyer take advantage of the basketball courts located in the lower areas of the Student Recreation and Wellness Center between classes. The center is used at all times of day whether by people working out or playing casual pick-up
Mules First Game of the Season Celebrated Across Campus
Womens Soccer Kicks into the Season
Senior Offensive Lineman Reed Kaburick leads the band and fellow team members in celebration of the Mules’ 3-21 victory over Northeastern Oklahoma State University. Kaburick
Senior Wide Receiver Jake Lippe dives off the field to catch the ball and aid in the Mules’ victory over Northeastern Oklahoma State University. Lippe started his college football career with 50 games at North Dakota State University where he tallied 1,242 career snaps, three touchdowns and was a member of two NCAA FCA Football National Championship teams. Lippe plans to major in business at UCM. Photo by Braeden Sholes
Senior Quarterback Zach Zebrowski lines up to receive the snap and lead the Mules to victory. Zebrowski was the second-ever UCM student to receive the 2023 Harlon Hill NCAA Division II National Player of the Year Award after he set numerous NCAA-II records. Zebrowski plans to major in sports management. Photo by Anthony Ray
Senior Defensive Back Anthony Wilson dives over a member of the opposing team and attempts to intercept the ball, resulting in Wilson flipping on his head. Despite this incident, Wilson continued playing for the rest of the game with no injuries. Photo by Braeden Sholes
Sophomore Linebacker Drew Kaufman celebrates with his fellow Mules after successfully recovering a fumble. Kaufman was the only defensive player to recover a fumble in this game and helped aid in the Mules’ victory. Photo by Ryan Techau
Senior Caroline Cole celebrates with her team as she scores her second goal of the game against Augustana at home. Cole led her team in scoring, earning two of UCM’s four goals and contributing to UCM’s victory against Augustana.
Photo by Ryan Techau
Freshman Izzy Joyce uses her speed as a forward to push past the Augustana defense to center the ball for her teammates. Joyce was a four-year letterwinner and starter for Shawnee Mission West High School. She was First Team All-State in 2021 and 2022, and was Second Team All-State in 2023. Not only successful on the soccer field, Joyce was also a four-year starter on the basketball courts and an AllState Honorable Mention in basketball three times. Photo by Ryan Techau
Left: Senior Molly Ricker shows her grit and strength as she throws the ball to her teammates. Ricker has played in every match in 2021, 2022 and 2023. Ricker was Honora ble Mention All-Missouri Intercollegiate Athletics Association and Missouri Intercollegiate Athletics Association Scholar-Athlete in 2021 and 2022. Ricker was College Sports Communicators Academic All-District i n 2022 and 2023, and Missouri Intercollegiate Athletics Association Academic Honor Roll in 2021, 2022 and 2023. Not only was she a star on the soccer field but she was a four-time all-state cross country runner in high school at Mill Valley. Ricker is majoring in marketing. Photo by Ryan Techau
Right: Junior Anna Lack uses her body and footwork to protect the ball from the Augustana defense. Lack was a Missouri Intercollegiate Athletics Association Academic Excellence Award Winner and achieved Missouri Intercollegiate Athletics Association Academic Honor Roll in 2022 and 2023. In 2023, Lack played all 23 matches in the season and scored
Sept.
game against Missouri Southern State on Sept. 9. Lack is majoring in nursing. Photo by Ryan Techau
Far Left: Freshman Patsy O’Brien battles the Augustana defense while looking into the sun to find a teammate to whom to throw. O’Brien played for St. James Academy in high school and played club soccer for KC Athletics. O’Brien was an Elite Clubs National League All-Region honoree and her club team won the state tournament three times.
Photo by Ryan Techau