Hammond, LA
October 6, 2020
S O U T H E A S T E R N L O U I S IA NA U N I V E R S I T Y
Nursing school receives the Nightingale award “I am very proud the School of Nursing is the recipient
JORDYN FRANKLIN Staff Reporter
The university’s nursing department recently received the title of ‘Nursing School of the Year’ for its undergraduate degree program. The title is also referred to as the Nightingale Award, an award that honors the achievements of undergraduate nursing students and faculty. Kenneth Tillman, department head of the school of nursing, expressed that the program is fortunate to have passionate and dedicated students and faculty. “Healthcare employers in the region consistently give us positive feedback on our nursing programs and graduates,” stated Tillman. “Of course, the faculty of the School of Nursing are the ones preparing tomorrow’s nurses, and like our students, they work hard and are dedicated, passionate teachers.” Tillman detailed how he feels about the School of Nursing’s accomplishment as the department head. He believes that all students and faculty can share the sense of pride. “I am very proud the School of Nursing is the recipient of this year’s Nightingale Award for Undergraduate Nursing Program,” expressed Tillman. “It is a welldeserved honor, and one that all nursing students and faculty, past and present, can share.”
of this year’s Nightingale Award for Undergraduate Nursing Program. It is a well-deserved honor, and one that all nursing students and faculty, past and present, can share.”
-Kenneth Tillman, Department Head
Tillman shared some words of advice for prospecting members of the nursing program. “We admit well-qualified students who put in many hours of study time in order to be successful,” explained Tillman. “Nursing students will tell others the nursing program at Southeastern is not easy, but once those students graduate from the program and become alumni, they tell everyone the rigor and hard work was worth it.” Erin Jordan, a sophomore nursing major, described that the high pass rate and small class sizes initially attracted her to the university’s nursing department. She acknowledged that the program has a reputation for being difficult and shared her own experience as a student within it thus far. “You have to take a lot of science courses back to back in your prerequisites. You’re picked by your GPA, so not only do you have to take these courses, you have to basically go in and ace
them,” stated Jordan. “You have to have a strong work ethic.” Upon getting accepted, Jordan found it difficult to break out of a perfectionist mindset. She explained that her professors helped her along the way. “For example, I didn’t do good on my first test, and I was shattered. I got an 85, which isn’t bad when you’re not in nursing — but that’s a C in nursing,” explained Jordan. “My professors reached out to me, encouraged me to reach out to them and helped me come up with ways to get my grades up.” Another aspect of the nursing program that Jordan enjoys is her peers. “They all want you to succeed. They know what you’ve been through because they’ve been through it too,” expressed Jordan. “Everyone’s so helpful and willing to study together and give you study tips. Everyone wants to see each other excel, which is really refreshing coming from an extremely competitive process to The university’s department received the title ‘Nursing School of the Year.’ The award honors the program’s achievements. Jordyn Franklin/The Lion’s Roar get into nursing.”
Combatting the spread of COVID-19 with virtual final exams GABRIELLE WOOD Staff Reporter
Before the semester began, the university announced that students will be taking finals remotely during the week of Nov. 30-Dec. 4. This has raised concerns for many. Laura Latino, director of the Office of Testing, discussed their partnership with the Office of Accessibility Services for testing. “I do not know what platform the university will be using for testing— I’m sure it will depend on the subject/department/teacher, etc,” said Latino. “Our office would generally proctor the finals for the students who are registered through Student Accessibility Services, but because students will not be returning after the Thanksgiving break, I’m not sure what to expect this fall during finals week.” There are still many questions about how the Office of Testing will be able to contribute during finals week. “Our office plans on being open during the week of finals, but because finals are going to be online, I do
Finals will be conducted virtually during the week of Nov. 30- Dec. 4. Students have raised concerns over the new transition. Gabrielle Wood/The Lion’s Roar not know how much we will be able questions and remain a point of contact to assist students unless the students for the students and their professors.” Lauren Birch, a junior general come to campus,” shared Latino. “We will definitely be happy to assist with studies major, shared how she felt
about taking exams virtually. “I do like how finals are online,” said Birch. “I feel like it is much easier to take tests at home, and it is also safer than everyone being on campus all at once.” James O’Connor, department head of communication and media studies, explained how the department is preparing for finals week. “Because of the schedule of COVID-19, we are going to have finals after Thanksgiving, but students won’t be able to come back,” explained O’Connor. “We have to have them do their exams remotely, which we are in the middle of planning. What we will do is set designated start and finish times for students to take exams, depending on the course.” O’Connor believes that this semester will not differ much from previous remote test-taking situations. “Being able to do final exams remotely is not a big leap since we are already in the transition of doing midterms online,” said O’Connor. “There will be monitoring for plagiarism and that kind of thing. We have to also make sure that the system
works, and we are working very closely with technology services.” There is no set program that instructors are required to use for each exam. For some classes, students could be required to pay for their proctor. “How the instructor decides to conduct their exam is completely up to them,” explained O’Connor. “It’s going to be mostly through Moodle, and there are capabilities to do it through Lockdown Browser. The thing about COVID-19 is that circumstances are not ideal, and it’s not really what students want, so we’re trying our best to be accommodating for all.” O’Connor urges students to make arrangements that will ensure a smooth testing process. “If a student has a bad connection, they need to find a place that will provide a good one,” said O’Connor. “We’ve had a number of people who have had a disconnect or get kicked off and we work with them, but it is a little more problematic, so we do encourage them to possibly go to a library, or somewhere that has a stronger connection if not at home.”
Students adapt to virtual counseling SYMIAH DORSEY Staff Reporter
As circumstances have continued to change, the face of mental health on campus has changed as well. Maintaining relationships with campus services might be a struggle for some students. The University Counseling Center has provided their services through new channels such as teletherapy, but the virtual approach to counseling is an experience that stuadents are unfamiliar with. Annette Newton-Baldwin, assistant director of programming and outreach for the UCC, described the main struggles students are facing this semester. “We are seeing grief and adjustment issues,” said Newton-Baldwin. “Students are having to live with being disappointed with expectations and social opportunities not being met. It is tough to have a healthy social community and follow social distancing guidelines.”
Newton-Baldwin feels that, while the approach is different, counseling remains a comfortable option for students. “I think the difference between this semester and previous semesters is that our staff is having to be more creative in providing options for our students,” explained NewtonBaldwin. “I don’t think it is harder for students to feel comfortable attending counseling due to current limitations, I just think it is different.” Samantha Ellis, a junior psychology major, supports the use of mental health services. She has resumed her counseling sessions through the center’s teletherapy services. “I have continued to use the UCC services through the telemental health services that they offer,” shared Ellis. “I mainly meet with my therapist virtually nowadays, I have not visited the counseling center this semester yet.”
Weather
Tuesday H 82 L 65
see VIRTUAL COUNSELING, pg. 6
The University’s Counseling Center has begun offering teletherapy services.
Index
Wednesday H 86 L 70
Campus Life.................................2 Opinions.....................................3 A&E............................................4
Sports & Fitness...........................5 News and Campus Life.................8
Stay Connected With Us! Like and follow @lionsroarnews.
Symiah Dorsey/The Lion’s Roar
Volume 92, Issue 7 A Student Publication www.lionsroarnews.com lionsroar@southeastern.edu
Page 2 | October 6, 2020
The Lion’s Roar | Campus Life
Here is how in-person classes are taking place
Students discuss their assignments in a general biology lab. Labs are being held in person with social distancing guidelines in place. Communication courses often require hands-on involvement. Students are continued taking production and film in-person with the use of face covering. Brynn Lundy/The Lion’s Roar
In wind symphony practices, students wear masks with openings in order to play their instruments. Performances will be held with similar guidelines. Communication instructor Fay Boudreaux teaches a high-anxiety public speaking course. Students wear masks through all in-class presentations. Brynn Lundy/The Lion’s Roar
Q&A with economics professor: Financial stress and COVID-19 ELANA GUILLORY
much more severe and has more negative impacts than the 2008 financial crisis in terms of rapid closing of businesses, more unemployed persons, higher unemployment rates, rapid decline in national output, more inconvenience to our daily life, losses of human life, change in how employees work remotely, restrictions on business operations, loss of rental income, mortgage foreclosures, etc.”
Staff Reporter
American unemployment is facing historical lows, consumer confidence is dwindling and bankruptcy for commercial businesses is set to reach the highest it has been in the last 10 years. Yu Hsing, professor of economics, answered some questions about financial complications the pandemic is causing. What are some ways the pandemic has affected the economy that students may not be aware of? “At present, we are about 21% below the normal economic condition. National output declined at an annualized rate of 33.3%, or $2.07 trillion, in the second quarter to a level of $19.49 trillion. In September 2020, the unemployment rate
The current economic strain caused by COVID-19 has impacted working college students. Some students have lost jobs that support their higher education. Symiah Dorsey/The Lion’s Roar
was 7.9% compared with the million in December 2019.” lowest unemployment of 3.5% in February 2020. There were 12.58 How does this situation million unemployed persons compare to the 2008 financial compared with the lowest crisis? “The pandemic crisis is unemployed figure of 5.753
How long do you think it will take for the economy to get back to normal? “Experts expect that our life may get back to normal by the second half of 2021 when the vaccine would become available to average people at a reasonable cost. Even after a vaccine shot, we may still need to wear a mask to avoid potential infection due to droplets and aerosols.”
Have you noticed any impact this pandemic has had specifically on students? “There are several major impacts on students. To some, remote learning may not be as effective as face-to-face learning. Some students lost jobs that financially support their higher education. Many parents lost their jobs and cannot continue What financial problems providing financial support to will people have when things their children attending colleges/ start getting back to normal? “Many people would have universities. Many students
less income, less saving and fewer job opportunities, etc. The government may cut programs and spending in order to balance the budget, which would increase financial burdens of Louisiana citizens and students.” Can you offer any advice for students to improve their financial situations and save money? “Students may learn some skills and knowledge at Southeastern which are in high demand on the job market in order to find better jobs and receive higher wages. Living with the parents would save money on the rent and other expenses. Students may need to set up priorities and cut spending on items which are not essential, participating in a 401(k) or a 403(b) annuity program, which provides tax deferred long-term saving at a much higher interest rate.”
Grad Fair to be held in person
C RIME Log
JORDYN FRANKLIN
Date/Time, Locations, and Nature of the Incident for the Crime Log are compiled by The Lion’s Roar from the Daily Crime and Fire Report provided by the University Police Department. 3/8/2020 at 7:30 AM - Sims Memorial Library - Theft 9/16/2020 at 8:45 AM - Friendship Circle - Vehicle Burglary 9/16/2020 at 12:30 PM - Twelve Oaks Hall Cyberstalking 9/17/2020 at 10:02 PM - Louisiana Hall Lot Possession of Schedule I CDS 9/18/2020 at 12:00 AM - Pedestrian Tunnel - Criminal Damage to Property 9/21/2020 at 12:30 AM - Twelve Oaks Hall - Alcohol Violation 9/21/2020 at 1:20 PM - West Dakota Street - Vehicle Burglary, Criminal Damage to Property 9/21/2020 at 10:56 PM - Washington Hall Possession of Marijuana 9/21/2020 at 12:00 AM - North Oak Park - Criminal Damage to Property
cannot enjoy social and club activities, which are important parts of college education. Some students may delay graduation after taking fewer courses or withdrawal from schooling due to lack of resources. Graduating students may not find as many jobs as before due to business shutdowns or slowdowns.”
9/22/2020 at 10:27 PM - St. Tammany Hall Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Resisting an Officer 9/23/2020 at 12:50 PM - North Oak Street Harassment 9/23/2020 at 11:33 PM - Louisiana Hall - Possession of Marijuana 9/24/2020 at 10:01 PM - Off Campus - Assist Other Agency 9/27/2020 at 12:29 AM - University Avenue - Traffic Violations, Outstanding Arrest Warrants 9/27/2020 at 1:46 AM - North Oak Street - Underage Driving While Intoxicated, Traffic Violations 9/27/2020 at 7:00 PM – Village - Simple Battery 9/28/2020 at 9:00 PM – Village - Simple Battery
Staff Reporter
With new safety protocols and changes in operations, the Alumni Association plans to host its annual Grad Fair in person. The fair, which will be held on Oct. 12 and 13, is a one-stop shop to equip graduate seniors with the resources they need to graduate. Unlike previous years, the event will be held in the Pennington Student Activity Center. Olivia Graziano, associate director of alumni programming, gave further information about the changes in operation for Grad Fair this year. “We are proceeding with an in-person Grad Fair as we have
in the past, though we have changed locations,” explained Graziano. “Typically, we try to get the Student Union Ballroom, but because the Ballroom is being utilized as a space for dining, we have instead utilized the Pennington Center.” Graziano explained why the Alumni Association decided not to host Grad Fair over a virtual platform. One reason is that the function of the event would not transfer well virtually. “You would have to go to each different website, each different venue on your own accord as opposed to coming to our place and getting it all done,” stated Graziano. “With being in phase three especially, I think it’s great that we’re having the opportunity
to do something in person while taking extra protocols.” Alongside the venue change and safety protocols, there is one more difference in this year’s Grad Fair operations. “We’ve also implemented preregistration forms that all of our students have to fill out before coming,” explained Graziano. “That just helps us monitor the number of bodies in the room, essentially. We want to make sure that we’re not overcrowding during certain times.” Despite the circumstances, Graziano emphasized that graduating students still have a right to celebrate their accomplishments.
see GRAD FAIR, pg. 3
Opinions | The Lion’s Roar
October 6, 2020 | Page 3
Can we get a new moderator? Please... On Sept. 29, everyone tuned in to watch the first presidential debate of the 2020 election cycle. M a n y watched in the hopes of seeing one candidate slip up or do something Gerard Borne wrong, or many Staff Reporter like myself watched to see what topics would be discussed and what both candidates had to offer. I thought to myself, “I hope both candidates do a good job, and I hope this is an informative debate.” Never would I have thought that I would grow a deep hatred for the moderator of the debate. Chris Wallace did an absolutely terrible job “moderating” this debate. He was very loud and arrogant throughout the whole night. To me, a moderator is supposed to be invisible and there to make sure everyone is following the rules and guidelines of the debate, but not in this case. Wallace made sure his presence was felt throughout the night, oftentimes screaming over both candidates. I understand rules were set in stone for the debate, allowing both candidates to only have two minutes per
topic, but if a candidate goes over by a little, let them finish their thoughts, please. As a first-time voter, I would have liked to hear both candidates’ thoughts and ideas in full, but Wallace nullified that by loudly interrupting both candidates. I would be lying if I were to say I do not know who I am voting for, but I would still like to hear both candidates’ sides of an issue. I am glad to know that Wallace will not be the moderator for the second debate. Now, to address both candidates. President Donald J. Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden both did rather well in my opinion, but they also had flaws in some areas. Trump’s biggest flaw was getting very loud and speaking out of turn often, but Biden also would occasionally speak out of turn. Trump did a good job answering questions about the coronavirus and did an even better job explaining how the country rebounded from the virus in a short period of time. Another thing Trump did well, in my opinion, was answering the questions about his rumored tax returns, which conveniently came out right before the debate. Now to Biden. I think the former vice president did a good job trying to connect with the American people by pointing
In this combination image of two photos showing both President Donald Trump, left, and former Vice President Joe Biden during the first presidential debate Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2020, at Case Western University and Cleveland Clinic, in Cleveland, Ohio. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky) at the cameras and saying “You the American people.” This has proven to work in the past, and Biden did just that. I also have to give props to Biden for jabbing back at Trump with more low blows. One of the areas that Biden
struggled in was, of course, making sense with some of his responses. Social media has always trolled the poor old man for not making any sense and on Sept. 29, they had a field day. Biden tends to start off great and make sense in the
beginning, but towards the end of his explanations and answers, he tends to completely brain fry everyone and just confuse the audience. For the second presidential debate on Oct. 15, I would tell both candidates to relax and try
to respect one another’s allotted times and to continue to both bring that same fiery energy from the last debate. Another note I would add is: please do not let Chris Wallace anywhere near the debate, as his voice irks me.
How to stay distracted in online classes this semester Online classes have definitely presented a challenge in maintaining focus on social media and other important aspects of my life. Usually when I attend class, I am in a classroom in which my teacher Elana Guillory will not allow me to Staff Reporter even check Snapchat. They will not let me browse through Instagram to check on my favorite YouTuber’s latest post or to text my mom to see what we are having for dinner. However, because some of my classes are online, now is the perfect time to do all of the things I was never allowed to do in the classroom. I usually try my best to answer
my Snapchats during class and to do Instagram research on my friend’s ex-boyfriend’s new girlfriend, but sometimes my lecture wins my attention. This is what I definitely do not want to happen. So, to get to the point of this article, if you are looking for ways to stay as distracted as possible while attending online classes, look no further. One way to make sure you are as distracted as mentally possible while attending an online class is to keep your phone right next to your laptop, tablet, or whatever you are using to attend your class. This way, when it lights up with a notification, you can jump to see who just messaged you. Do not keep it out of your sight or leave it in the other room. Do not put it on silent, and definitely do not put
GRAD FAIR
continued from pg. 2 “Regardless of whether you’re graduating with your doctorate or your master’s or your undergrad, we’re so proud of you, and we’re so excited to welcome you into the Alumni Association,” expressed Graziano. “We hope to do that in the best way we can through Grad Fair and throughout the end of the semester.” Jasmine Smith, a senior management major, shared her thoughts on this year’s Grad Fair and its changes. “I feel good about it, because one — it’s a really good feeling when you’re getting ready to graduate and you still get to do the stuff that everyone else did before COVID-19,” expressed Smith. “We have to monitor everything that we do, but I still see it as a really good thing being able to have it in person.”
it on “Do Not Disturb.” If you do any of those things, you risk potentially paying attention to your teacher, and that is not the way to go this semester. Another way to stay distracted: go to class in a public location — preferably outside the Student Union during lunch hours. This way, you will catch yourself drifting off about the person in the blue shirt who just passed in front of you — maybe you went to high school together? You might even catch some of your friends passing by you and strike a conversation with them about the presidential debate. This is good and a sign of progress. Maybe you can even go to PJ’s Coffee and sit right next to the counter where the baristas do most of their coffee making. Do not wear
noise-cancelling headphones if you do this. You want to be as distracted as possible. Another way to stay distracted during an online lecture is to attend while driving. Bonus points if you can position your phone in a spot on your dashboard where it falls every time you hit a small bump. This way, you will not catch anything your professor says. For maximum certainty that you will not focus on them, turn your volume all the way down. Maybe even play some heavy metal over your car radio (do this even if you do not like heavy metal. I promise it works). Do not take notes on anything your professor is saying while you are in class, either. If you happen to find yourself taking notes, though, you can try to prepare yourself for
As for whether Grad Fair is important or not to her personally, Smith explained that it is. “I say that it is important to me personally, because it gets you extra excited that you’re getting ready to graduate,” stated Smith. “Especially for me, because I’ve waited nine semesters for this. It’s the excitement and just the feeling of getting ready for when you get your diploma.” Smith shared her experience with being a graduating senior in the current college climate. Overall, she feels she has adapted quite well. “I’ve been able to get used to the new norm, as they say,” explained Smith. “I’m still able to go to class, still do what I need to, having to keep a social distance, be safe and wear a mask. But overall, it’s like — I’m here, I’m still doing my school work, and I’m still getting my degree. That’s really the one thing that matters.”
distraction by only having one sheet of paper handy. This will ensure that you cannot take more than a page of notes and force you to leave the room to get more paper and miss parts of the lecture while doing so. My favorite way to stay distracted in online class is to attend it while laying down in my bed. My 8 a.m. class has no power over me if I do this. I usually end up catching a few more Z’s and do not hear anything my professor says. I do not keep loose leaf in my bed either, so I am not tempted to take notes. I hope some of these tips help you like they help me. If you follow them, success will be yours, and you will fail this semester — which is the goal, right?
Speak
Out
How did you feel about the recent Presidential Debate? “Immaturity on both sides.” @mojo932
“I don’t think it changed anyone’s minds about either candidate. They didn’t gain or lose any votes.” @phoenix_gundam “What’s done in the dark will always come to the light. They need to let the other dig their own graves rather than yell or interrupt.” @mellissa0320 “Didn’t even watch it.”
@jordonarmand
“Horrible. The president was debating two people instead of just one.” @cs.peppers Graduating students get ready to take pictures at the Grad Fair last year at the Student Union Ballroom. This year, the event will be held in the Pennington Center. File Photo/The Lion’s Roar
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Page 4 | October 6, 2020
The Lion’s Roar | Arts & Entertainment
New Orleans artist Ruth Owens to be featured in Contemporary Art Gallery MAGGIE TREGRE Staff Reporter
While the Contemporary Art Gallery is often used to showcase student works, it also features works from other artists. From Oct. 8-29, the gallery will host a collection titled “Black Outdoors: Crossing Boundaries,” featuring artwork by Ruth Owens. The display will include both paintings and video artworks. Cristina Molina, director and curator of the Contemporary Art Gallery, shared why she decided to feature Owen’s work in the gallery. “Ruth Owens is a skilled painter and video maker who lives and works in New Orleans,” explained Molina. “In her painting, Ruth Owens often references scenes and relatives in family photos and home videos. I thought that featuring both of these media together, painting and video, in one venue would allow the viewer to make the visual connections between Ruth’s process and final product.” Owens’ work includes depictions of people of color that are not usually seen in the media.
“Conceptually, Ruth’s artwork situates figures of Black individuals in lush outdoor landscapes, something that we don’t normally see depicted in mainstream imagery, advertising and other media unless it features a person of color experiencing an act of violence,” said Molina. On Tuesday, Oct. 13 at 12 p.m., a public Zoom call will be held between Owens, Molina and Kristina Robinson, an editor for Burnaway magazine. “Throughout the conversation we will discuss Ruth’s process for making this work, her research and the themes surround the exhibition,” said Molina. “The public will be able to access the call via Zoom. Information will be posted on the gallery’s website under the ‘visiting artists series’ tab.” Molina shared a statement from Owens about the collection. “The black and brown bodies in this exhibition venture into the outdoors, which has been historically an uninviting or dangerous space for people of color,” stated Owens. “The Great American Outdoors and the Arian alpine landscape have taken on meaning as a place for spiritual, physical and
psychological growth that does not include Black people. ‘Black Outdoors’ crosses this boundary and examines both the healing power and the dangers faced by Black people in this space.” Molina mentioned that Owens’ work is especially relevant now due to recent instances of violence against people of color that have gained attention through the media. “I think this subject matter has always been poignant, but currently we are in an era where a bird watcher like Christian Cooper cannot even go about his outdoor hobby without experiencing acts of hostility and violence,” commented Molina. “At this time, we cannot ignore the racial injustices faced by Black people, which is what makes Ruth’s artwork all the more relevant. Ruth’s artwork proposes a tension in the outdoor landscape as both restorative and dangerous for people of color.” Molina described why she thinks this exhibit will leave a strong impression. “I think this exhibition is most powerful because throughout, we see figures joyfully recreating in these outdoor spaces with a sense of ease, which is something all
Located next to Strawberry Stadium, the Contemporary Art Gallery is a part of the Department of Visual Art + Design. The upcoming exhibit will feature the works of New Orleans artist Ruth Owens. Visitors are required to wear face coverings inside the gallery and are asked to maintain a six-feet distance from each other while inside. Dylan Meche/The Lion’s Roar people should be allowed to feel while outdoors, but currently does not seem available to all people,” commented Molina. “Ruth’s artwork imagines a time when the restorative experience
of communing with nature will truly provide a respite for all.” “Black Outdoors: Crossing Boundaries” will be on display at the Contemporary Art Gallery, adjacent to Strawberry Stadium.
The gallery is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesdays, and 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Friday. The showcase is open to the public at no cost.
“Aliens, Immigrants & Other Evildoers”opens Columbia Theatre’s 2020-2021 season
Columbia Theatre’s season opener, a one-man show titled “Aliens, Immigrants & Other Evildoers,” was performed by Jose Torres-Tama on Oct. 3 at 7:30 p.m. Born in Ecuador, Torres-Tama is a performance artist who explores themes like race and its relation to mass media. “Aliens, Immigrants & Other Evildoers” is a science fiction Latino noir that discusses the exploitation and dehumanization of immigrants. Elana Guillory/The Lion’s Roar
Sports| The Lion’s Roar
October 6, 2020 | Page 5
Lady Lions to start 2021season in mid February
Ellie Williams, sophomore forward, started 14 of the 17 games she played in for the 2019 season. Williams led the Lady Lions in the 2019 season with four goals, 27 shots and 10 points. Williams is a native of Frisco, Texas. File Photo/The Lion’s Roar GERARD BORNE Staff Reporter
The Southland Conference announced that the women’s soccer season will resume playing in the spring due to the COVID-19 fall sports shutdown. In mid-August, the conference commissioner announced that all fall sports, including women’s soccer, would be postponed. Christopher McBride, women’s soccer head coach, shared his thoughts on the conference’s decision to announce the spring schedule. “We were very excited to see that the Southland had announced the schedule,” mentioned McBride. “We knew athletic director Jay Artigues had been tirelessly working behind the scenes to work with the other conference athletic directors and Southland representatives to make our season happen, and we are grateful for that.” Even though the fall season was postponed, the
Lady Lions have been practicing as they would be during a regular season. “We have been treating this off-season just like any other,” shared McBride. “We have been training five days a week and been putting a lot of time into developing our athletes as much physically and tactically as possible.” McBride shared what he thinks are the benefits of having an elongated off-season. “One of the benefits we have is that we can train this off-season with our freshmen,” explained McBride. “Normally, they come in, and two weeks later, are required to play in a conference game. However, this year, we have been able to train them with the team to get them accustomed to the environment and style of play.” The third-year head coach commented on where the Lady Lions are as a program and how he anticipates the starting lineup will compete against each other.
“Where we are at as a team right now, we have a large group that are making it very competitive,” said McBride. “Every week, we have a competition for the starting line up, and each week, this offseason it has been changing. Everyone is putting in a lot of work and pushing each other to get better. It’s one of the many qualities this group brings this year.” The Scotland native explained how the upcoming spring season will be unlike any other. “I think it’s going to be even more competitive than before,” said McBride. “Usually, teams have a non-conference schedule to work out who plays where, what system works best, etc., but this year, everyone will return after Christmas and need to play against a conference opponent immediately, which will be very challenging but very competitive.” McBride shared where he thinks the Lady Lions can improve on from last season after finishing a subpar 4-13-1.
“I think we can improve everything,” said McBride. “We would like to score more goals, concede less goals, create more attacking opportunities, have better discipline defensively, more creativity offensively, and these are all areas we have been working on this fall.” McBride explained how the team looks as of this week. “Right now, we are really happy with where we are as a team,” said McBride. “These first four weeks of our training have been extremely intense. Some players have really stepped it up in practice and our inter-squad games. We will be looking forward to competing against other teams next spring. We open up with Lamar away, which will give us a strong indication of what we need to do moving forward after that.” The Lady Lions will open up the 2021 season on the road for a Valentine’s Day battle against Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas.
From New York City to Hammond: Lieberman’s journey GERARD BORNE Staff Reporter
Mark Lieberman, associate head coach for men’s basketball, arrived at the university in the fall of 2019 shortly after David Kiefer was promoted to head coach. Lieberman, a New York City native, has been around the country serving different roles for various basketball teams. The Florida International University alumni shared where he got his love for basketball. “As a kid growing up, I always had a love of the game,” shared Lieberman. “I was really small when I was little, but I grew up watching the old Los Angeles Lakers, Philadelphia Seventy-Sixers and a few other teams. I just grew up to love the game. I just had a fascination for the game and grew to love it.” Lieberman explained that he did not think coaching basketball would be his career path. “I enrolled in college and was a communications and graphic designs major, but a friend of mine from college offered me an assistant coaching job for a junior varsity position
at Western High School,” explained Lieberman. “Once I stepped in the gym and started coaching at the age of 23, I never decided to look back.” Before arriving to coach the green and gold, Lieberman coached alongside college basketball legend Rick Patino at University of Louisville. “Coach Patino taught me a lot about the game of basketball, including how to get the absolute most out of someone when that player even thinks they can’t go anymore,” explained Lieberman. “Coach Patino also taught me a lot of defensive concepts. I also learned how important conditioning is for players. His players are always in shape towards the end of the game.” While coaching at Louisville, Lieberman made a final four appearance in the 2011-12 season. Lieberman talked about the experience and knowledge he gained from that season. “We lost our last game at home on senior night to South Florida,” said Lieberman. “To sit here and tell you that we were a final four caliber team, we were talented but not as talented as other teams in the
Mark Lieberman, associate head coach and fourth from left, started his coaching career in Florida after graduating from Florida International University. Lieberman was first introduced to head coach David Kiefer over twenty years ago before Lieberman coached with Louisiville legend Rick Patino . Courtesey of Sports Information tournament. We just kind of hit lightning in a bottle and the coaching staff had great chemistry with the players. We beat Cincinnati in our conference tournament and went from there.” Kiefer and Lieberman’s history dates back almost 20 years, with both of them coaching the Florida Rams, a
travel basketball team. “Kiefer was one of our younger coaches, and we had a great rapport,” said Lieberman. “When the job opened up down here, I was living in Kentucky at the time. He called me about coming aboard, and I jumped at the opportunity.” Lieberman shared what he hopes the Lions can do in the
upcoming season. “I think we have a really good group this season,” said Lieberman. “We brought in a good group to the team. Coach Kiefer expressed that we need to have a tough identity this season and out-muscle a lot of teams. I think our fans and the student body will be really pleased with what we bring
to the table this season, and hopefully they will be able to watch the games live this season.” The men’s basketball team is currently waiting for the Southland Conference to make the 2020-21 schedule, as the conference announced in early September that a 2020-21 season will occur.
Team GATA defeats Team Mamba 3-1 from a pair of unearned runs HAMMOND, La. – A pair of unearned runs led to a 3-1 win for Team GATA during Sunday’s fall intrasquad scimmage action for Southeastern Louisiana at Pat Kenelly Diamond at Alumni Field. GATA (9-6-1) took the lead in the bottom of third inning, scoring an unearned run following a two-out throwing error. Preston Faulkner tied the game, 1-1, with a solo home run for Team Mamba (6-9-1) leading off the top of the fourth. It was the third homer of the fall for the junior from Denham Springs, Louisiana, tying him with Connor Manola for the team lead through 16 scrimmages. Christian Garcia led off the bottom of the inning with a double and later scored on a throwing error, putting GATA back on top by a run. Jacob Burke, who reached on the throwing error, also eventually came around to score, padding the lead. Grant Upton (2-0) earned the win, allowing one run in four innings of work. The sophomore righthander from Baton Rouge, Louisiana scattered four hits and two walks, striking out three batters. Noah Hughes did not allow a run over the final 1.2 innings, earning his second save of the fall. Freshman righthander Will Kinzeler suffered the hard-luck loss, surrendering three runs – just one earned – in four innings of work. He allowed four hits and one walk, striking out five batters. Relievers Gage Trahan (2.2 IP), Antonio Buckley (2.0 IP), Dalton Aspholm (0.2 IP), Sebastian Bentz (0.2 IP), Andrew Landry (0.2 IP) and Christian White
Grant Upton, junior right handed pitcher, posted a 1.46 earned run average in 2020. Upton yielded opposing hitters to a .228 batting average in the 2020 season for the Lions while also posting a 1-1 record. . Courtesey of Randy Bergeron (0.2 IP) all turned in scoreless outings. Garcia (2-for-3) and Trey Harrington (2-for-3) each produced multiple hits for their respective squads while Joe Delaney (1-for-2), Bryce Grizzaffi (1-for2), Taylor Phillips (1-for-2), Cade Scott (1-for-4), Brennan Stuprich (1-for-3), Matt Taylor (1-for-1) and Nathan Tribble (1-for-3) also picked up hits. FALL WORLD SERIES The Southeastern Louisiana baseball program
will host its annual Heart of a Lion Fall World Series, Oct. 9-11, at Pat Kenelly Diamond at Alumni Field. The three-game series, scheduled for 6 p.m. Oct. 9, 2 p.m. Oct. 10 and 2 p.m. Oct. 11, will conclude the program’s intrasquad action for the fall. Fans can watch a free video stream using the Lions’ Gameday Experience app for Android or iOS devices, the Southland Conference Digital Network app for smart TV devices (e.g. Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Android TV and Roku) or through the Southeastern Athletics website at www.LionSports.net/SSN. LIONS GAMEDAY EXPERIENCE APP The Lions Gameday Experience app puts audio, stats, video, social media and more in the hands of fans. Those in attendance can also check in to earn reward points redeemable for Southeastern-related prizes. Available for both Android and iOS devices, it can be downloaded from the App Store and Google Play or by following the link www.LionSports.net/ App. DIAMOND CLUB / S CLUB Fans interested in becoming active supporters of the baseball program are encouraged to join the Diamond Club. Lion baseball alums are encouraged to join the exclusive S Club, which is restricted to Southeastern athletic letter winners. All membership fees and donations to both the Diamond Club and S Club (baseball) are available for the exclusive use of the Southeastern baseball program. Membership information is available by
contacting the Lion Athletics Association at laa@ southeastern.edu or (985) 549-5091 or visiting www. LionUp.com. SOCIAL MEDIA For more information on Lions Baseball, follow @LionUpBaseball or @MattRiser17 on Twitter, @ LionUpBaseball on Instagram and Facebook, and subscribe to the SLUathletics YouTube channel. #LionUp PLAYERS MENTIONED #22 Preston Faulkner IF / OF 6’ 1” 230 lbs Junior R/R #13 Trey Harrington IF 6’ 2” 176 lbs Junior R/R #19 Noah Hughes P 6’ 3” 205 lbs Redshirt Senior R/R #5 Connor Manola C 6’ 0” 180 lbs Redshirt Sophomore R/R #25 Grant Upton P 6’ 3” 200 lbs Sophomore R/R #27 Dalton Aspholm P 6’ 0” 190 lbs Freshman R/R #23 Jacob Burke IF 6’ 0” 200 lbs Freshman R/R #20 Christian Garcia IF 5’ 11” 175 lbs Freshman R/R #16 Bryce Grizzaffi C / IF 5’ 10” 175 lbs Freshman R/R #10 Matt Taylor OF 5’ 11” 175 lbs Junior R/R
Page 6 | October 6, 2020
The Lion’s Roar | Campus Life
RAs adjust program planning during the pandemic BRYNN LUNDY Staff Reporter
Throughout the semester, resident assistants are required to plan programs each month for residential students. For the Fall 2020 semester, those events and their planning may look different due to the various social limitations, as well as the everchanging rules and regulations. Jaila Golden, a senior biological sciences major, is an RA in Tangipahoa Hall. She elaborated on the online versus in-person aspects of planning the programs. “As of now, we’re only planning for virtual events, but most of them, if things were to change, they can also be switched to in person. As of now, they have to be virtual,” explained Golden. Golden held her first RA program of the semester, called “Planning for a Great Semester,” on Sept. 30. She described what the event entailed for the residents on her floor. “What I did was I got all the materials together for my residents to be able to make a DIY planner, just to help them with the semester and time management,” said Golden. “Then, we did a Google Meet call where we talked about the techniques that I use to manage my time in order to study for exams and work on assignments and have some free time as well.” Trevor Fleming, a senior sport management major, is an RA in Louisiana Hall. He described the first program he held for his residents and mentioned his plans for further into the semester.
“I’ve already done a sexual health and safety program, and I plan to complete a fall/Halloweenthemed program for October and a stress management-type program as finals approach in November,” said Fleming. Fleming spoke on the effects the social limitations have had on his overall planning for the programs for the residents on his floor. “It definitely makes it much tougher, but there are still many different options to deliver programs to residents, such as virtual programs through Zoom and/or Google Meet,” expressed Fleming. According to Golden, flexibility played a part in planning events for the semester so far. “I tried to make sure that anything that I did was something that was flexible, something that could be done virtually if necessary,” said Golden. “Just like the planner program, I was able to give them materials and talk about it on Zoom. So, I made sure not to do anything where you absolutely had to be together to work on it.” Despite the difficulties, Fleming believes he and the other RAs are working well through the changes. “I knew this semester was going to be tougher than those before it, but we are still doing programs to the best of our abilities, and I think residents are enjoying them,” shared Fleming. While she was eager to begin her position as an RA, Golden said she did not anticipate the challenges the circumstances would pose to her role. She shared how University Housing assisted RAs with the situation.
Resident Assistants are still required to hold virtual programs for their student residents for the Fall 2020 semester. The RAs in Washington Hall put up a flyer in the lobby to advertise a Bingo game for the evening of Oct. 5. Brynn Lundy/The Lion’s Roar “I was excited for the role and the responsibility, but with something like a pandemic, that’s something that I never considered before,” shared Golden. “Housing has done a good job as far as
helping us transition into, just adjusting to all of the changes and making sure our residents are safe and still can have as much fun and support as possible.”
Giving Day returns as a part of Homecoming events DYLAN MECHE Staff Reporter
After record participation last fall, the university plans to include its annual Giving Day as part of their Homecoming Week lineup. Giving Day will be held on Oct. 21, and it will be a 24hour fundraising campaign in which multiple departments and organizations will be able to appeal for funds. The university made the decision to hold the event during Homecoming Week last year in order to increase participation. Last year, the university raised nearly $100,000 for various departments and organizations with nearly 800 donors. A new online platform was also utilized. Vanessa Prentice, director of development for the office Giving Day will be held on Oct. 21. After raising nearly $100,000 last year for of university advancement, various departments, the university anticipates another successful Giving Day described how the change in after gaining 250% more traction on their platform. File Photo/The Lion’s Roar
time was successful in drawing more attention to the event. “Last year was the first year that we utilized this new, multifaceted platform,” said Prentice. “Our goal last year was to reach more and newer people. We were very successful in that. We engaged about 250 percent more people, which is a substantial amount of people. We engaged almost 800 people versus the typical year of around 130 people. So, we were very successful.” Prentice also shared some of the departments and organizations that will be participating in this year’s Giving Day. “We have more athletics this year, pretty much all athletics and athletic clubs are participating,” noted Prentice. “We have projects from every college. We also have organizations such as the Food Pantry, KSLU, Turtle Cove, collegiate recovery that
are participating.” While there won’t be any major changes to the event as compared to last year, Prentice shared that the cancellation of most major Homecoming events presents new challenges. “It’s the same but the problem is we are going to be doing a virtual homecoming, so there will not be as many in-person activities to go along with it,” explained Prentice. “Last year, we participated in Gumbo YaYa and we were incentivized people to share on social media by giving them a t-shirt. Because Giving Day is more of a social media event, the fact that most Homecoming events will be virtual shouldn’t hinder it.” Current limitations on student activities has also presented challenges for event coordinators. “The challenges are that people and student organizations are not coming together as usual,
therefore they cannot meet and discuss their needs,” shared Prentice. “They also cannot take any trips, which a lot of the projects last year were to raise money for things like travel abroad. The other difficulty is that faculty and staff are stretched very thin in this new normal and can’t be involved as they were last year.” Despite these challenges, Prentice explained that the implementation of a new online platform for Giving Day last year has helped coordinators. “The benefit is this is our second year using this wonderful platform that allows people to push their projects themselves,” said Prentice. Prentice hopes to continue to reach more people and re-engage those who participated last year. To donate to any of the Giving Day incentives, visit https:// www.southeasterngivingday. org.
Orientation leaders adapt to unique circumstances BRYNN LUNDY
Brent Webb, a sophomore business administration major, decided to put his people skills to work for the purpose of mentoring incoming students. “I have enjoyed every ounce of my experience as a 2020 Orientation Leader,” shared Webb. “I have made many long-lasting connections, while also guiding students through the tough process of transitioning from high school to college, which I believe was an even harder transition this year due to COVID-19. The job was tougher, but I enjoyed every bit of work that we put in together.”
Staff Reporter
The 2020 Orientation Leader Team underwent a one-of-a-kind orientation experience this summer. In March, the university transitioned to remote learning and operations. In April, the Office of Admissions and the OL Team began changing the Summer Orientation Programs to a virtual format for the first time ever. Amanda Hammonds, assistant director of orientation and events, described the online methods through which the orientation programs were conducted over the summer for incoming Lions. “Orientations over this past summer we did over Moodle, and if a student ran into any issues, they would join our Zoom,” said Hammonds. “Our Zoom was basically constantly running from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., so they could jump on, join us whenever.” For a typical orientation, leaders are paired up and assigned a color. Students who register for orientation are also assigned a color and matched up with two OLs and a group of students. Hammonds mentioned that the team was able to maintain part of that aspect for the virtual version of orientation. “Our OLs were still emailing students, ‘Hey, I’m your Orientation Leader. Let me know if you have any questions,’” said Hammonds. “They even sent students a postcard. So, we still had that personal touch that we were able to do in previous years, so that was very important to us. We still wanted those little details that really make Southeastern what it is.” Faith Wolverton, a sophomore nursing major, said she decided to be an OL because she remembered her OL’s impact on her incoming freshman experience and wanted to help others in the same way. She described her experience this year and what she gained from the abnormal circumstances. “My team showed resilience, and we were still able to help incoming Southeastern students to the best of our abilities,” expressed Wolverton. “Personally, the experience has grown me in many ways that I didn’t expect me to be grown. It has taught me resilience, patience, new VIRTUAL COUNSELING
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For Ellis, current limitations have not tarnished her relationship with counseling. “I do not think that the current restrictions have influenced the effectiveness of counseling because I am still able to talk about everything I want to during a virtual session as I would in a face-toface meeting,” said Ellis. “I am still receiving amazing counseling.”
leadership skills and, most of all, how to roll with the punches and make the most of something.” Taylor Rivera, a sophomore management major, expressed similar reasoning behind her decision to apply for an OL position—inspiration from her freshman OL and to help others. “I loved being an OL,” shared Rivera. “It was such an amazing experience, and I have made so many connections with students and other people. Even though our experience was different and not expected, we still made the most of it and had as much fun as we could.”
Wolverton expressed gratitude and admiration for the OL Team this year, even though they were unable to have the in-person experience. “As far as actual events go, we definitely missed out on a lot of experiences,” said Wolverton. “However, we were able to make the most out of the experience we were given, and I learned so much.” Webb expressed a similar sentiment, and viewed the situation with optimism. “Trials and tribulations are a beautiful part of life,” claimed Webb. “The toughest circumstances make for the greatest lessons. I feel I have become more patient, better with time, and I feel I have grown as an overall leader.” Hammonds felt that this year’s group of OLs deserve to be recognized. She explained that she reached out to the students who participated in the Summer Orientation Programs and asked them to provide feedback for their leaders. “We surprised them with all of that feedback,” said Hammonds. “It was some beautiful words that they said about, just you know, ‘Thank you to my OL,’ because even though it was not in person, they still did a great job at connecting them to campus.” Hammonds encouraged students to get involved on campus. “I want students to apply, but more importantly, I want to encourage students to challenge themselves, to push themselves to be a better student, and to do that, you’ve got to get involved,” expressed Hammonds. The application to become an Orientation Leader is always active. The deadline to apply for the 2021 Orientation Leader Team is Oct. 16.
Ellis encouraged students to fully utilize the services provided at the counseling center, especially as they enter uncharted territory. “I think it is exponentially important for students to continue looking after their mental health during these circumstances because we are all navigating a world that we have no previous experience in,” explained Ellis. “We are all taking each day as it comes, and some days might be much more difficult than others.” Ellis shared that having someone to listen can be the best version of help, even if it is conducted virtually.
“Honestly, it is just good to have someone to vent to and to have someone listen without a biased opinion,” mentioned Ellis. “A counselor is someone who is there to just listen, and having someone to listen can sometimes be the best version of help you need.” Newton-Baldwin gave similar advice. “My advice to students is to take the time for healthy selfcare during these times,” said Newton-Baldwin. “The Counseling Center is an option for support.”
2020 Orientation Leaders had to adjust to the university’s first virtuallyformatted orientation. The team sill managed to fulfill the vision of connecting students to campus. Courtesy of Randy Bergeron