Hammond, LA
October 13, 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
Students speak up about disconnection from peers
A student studies outside the library. As most classes are conducted with an online format, students have expressed that they feel disconnected from their peers. Dylan Meche/The Lion’s Roar DYLAN MECHE Staff Reporter
Due to a lack of in-person events and traditional class formats, several students have expressed that they feel disconnected from their peers. In compliance with current federal and state guidelines for colleges and universities, the university has taken efforts to limit in-person interactions and promote virtual events and class structures. Many students feel that the measures being taken have resulted in them feeling detached from campus life. Gabrielle Louisia, a communication sciences and disorders graduate student, attends
several online only classes and feels that it does not allow for much interaction. “I have a few classes where I am in-person with other students and that definitely helps, but with the ones that are only online, I don’t see them,” said Louisia. “As an introverted person, my first instinct is not to reach out that much, so most people in the class are mostly secluded.” Louisia also shared that she generally feels distant from what is happening on campus. “I would go to extracurricular activities and see a lot of people around campus in prior semesters,” noted Louisia. “Now, because everything is either mostly online or just flat out isn’t happening, I
don’t get to see people. Normally, randomly bumping into people on campus or at another event is how I got most of my social interactions and that hasn’t happened at all this semester.” Michael DeGraauw, a junior history major, also feels somewhat disconnected from the people around him. However, he mentioned that since he is a part of Spirit of the Southland, he gets to see a lot of his friends on a regular basis. “Band has helped me because I get to see people everyday for that,” explained DeGraauw. “In general for classes and stuff, I do feel more disconnected because we are only there for one day of the week, at least for me. So, it
is hard to get a real connection with everyone, even if we get a GroupMe or something going.” While DeGraauw is a member of the band, not having many inperson events has left him feeling detached from campus life. “I have no idea what is going on half of the time,” said DeGraauw. “Normally, especially in the fall, I would be at the football games and have a little bit more knowledge about what is going on, generally speaking. Now, without the games, it feels like everyone is kind of just going through the motions a little bit.” All of DeGraauw’s virtual classes hold their lectures on Google Meet. During these Google Meet sessions, DeGraauw shared that it is hard to connect with the rest of the class, especially in hybrid formatted classes. “There is a giant disconnect between teaching to just the people in the classroom and trying to teach people who are both in-person and online at the same time as well,” noted DeGraauw. He believes that being able to communicate with the rest of the class via applications such as GroupMe can make a difference, but it does not completely solve the problem. “You are able to ask other students for help or when an assignment was due,” shared DeGraauw. “At the same time, it doesn’t really help to connect with other students and sort of becomes just a help group for the class per se.”
New way of learning in nursing field GABRIELLE WOOD Staff Reporter
For many nursing students, their learning experience has opened the door for new insights to the medical field due to COVID-19. Nicholas Moncaleano, a senior nursing major, discussed how being a nursing student has changed under new circumstances. “The pandemic has definitely changed aspects of my major,” said Moncaleano. “There’s the obvious superficial level changes, such as having to wear a mask and having to social distance. However, it has also given me an interesting perspective of the medical field during this public health crisis.” During the progression of the pandemic, professionals in the medical field have been
in the spotlight on the frontlines, with the extra hours and efforts they have had to endure. “It’s a bad and good time to be a student as you get to see many things you wouldn’t have in a normal world,” shared Moncaleano. “It has highlighted the strengths and weaknesses of the medical fields, as the pandemic has had a massive strain on the medical field.” Camryn Austin, a senior nursing major, emphasized the length that medical professionals are going through to combat COVID-19. “COVID-19 has changed my perception towards nursing, but for the better,” said Austin. “I think this pandemic has shed a light on just how important our health care workers are. In a time where everything is so uncertain, nurses are not only providing for patients but also helping to educate them
and just be a smiling face to those who may not be able to have family and visitors in the hospitals at this time.” Austin reflected on the difficulties that arose from campus being closed last semester. “The initial shutdown of school back in March was definitely an adjustment that was felt by all students,” discussed Austin. “Nursing is a very hands-on profession, so it was different to transition into completely online learning. But our professors worked diligently to provide us with as much ‘patient interaction’ and skills as possible, recording videos of themselves from their homes to show us how to perform certain skills, as well as having online simulations that showed us clinical patients and how the choices we
see NURSING STUDENTS, pg. 3
Fall 2020 sees increase in enrollment rate
With a total of 14,461 students enrolled for Fall 2020, the total number of full time students increased by 1.4% and the part time students increased by 1.4%. Jordyn Franklin/ The Lion’s Roar
GABRIELLE WOOD Staff Reporter
Despite COVID-19 altering the format of learning, students have shown to not be discouraged from enrolling in courses. The university has seen an increase in enrollment for the Fall 2020 semester, reporting a total of 14,461 students. Aime Anderson, a registrar, shared the main factor that has contributed to high enrollment rates for this fall semester. “Student retention has been a key element in the increase in enrollment this semester,” said Anderson. “Retention rates in students returning for their second year and students returning for their third year increased this semester.” The number of students from both undergraduate and graduate programs have seen a rise in growth in addition to full and part-time students. “The total number of full-time students increased by 1.4%, and the number of part-time students also increased by 1.4%,” stated Anderson. “Undergraduate students increased by 1.5%, and graduate students increased by 0.7%.” Even though the overall student body rate has increased, a particular demographic of students has decreased in numbers. “Although there was a modest increase in the number of graduate international students,
overall international student enrollment is down,” shared Anderson. Polina Sleptsova, a sophomore communication major, is an international student from Russia. She explained why she decided to enroll for this semester. “COVID-19 hasn’t influenced my decision in enrollment this semester at all, as I already was in the U.S.,” said Sleptsova. “Because of the virus, I couldn’t go home during the summer, so I stayed here and decided not to leave. One of the reasons was that I didn’t want to have any difficulties in coming back here in August, so I basically made my life a little easier. Of course, it’s hard now because I haven’t seen my family in so long, but I hope it’s worth it.” Sleptsova noted why she believes enrollment rates among international students have dropped, while general enrollment has increased. “Actually, there are a few reasons for that,” explained Sleptsova. “First, because of the pandemic in the U.S., embassies abroad were closed. Students who came back home for the summer break couldn’t renew their visas. Second, I think during these hard times, most international students feel much safer at home, close to their families, than in another country. And also, the majority of the international students have really long flights with multiple layovers.”
New equipment helps combat the spread of COVID-19 on campus MAGGIE TREGRE Staff Reporter
While social distancing guidelines and mandatory face coverings are still seen throughout campus, they are not the only ways the university is fighting the spread of COVID-19. Several new technologies have been installed in buildings around campus to prevent further spread of COVID-19 in the case of an outbreak or possible contamination. The three technologies are vapor hydrogen peroxide generators, ultraviolet sterilization and bipolar ionization. Jeremy Brignac, director of the Environmental Health and Safety Office, described where each of the technologies will be installed. “The vast majority of the campus is getting bipolar ionization systems,” said Brignac. “The Pennington is the anomaly of all of them because it’s getting both what you call the troffers and the bipolar ionization.” The troffer system combines the UV sterilization technology with a carbon filter and is installed as a light fixture. The system is more effective for areas that receive more traffic but less surface contamination. Brignac explained how the troffer systems work and Weather
Tuesday H 84 L 54
why they were added to The REC. “The troffer is a combination of technologies,” mentioned Brignac. “It has a three-phase filtering system. The first piece of it is a carbon filter, so basically, it goes through an activated carbon filter and takes out any kind of smells, volatile compounds, chemicals. Then it goes through a UV sterilization tray that’s part of the system. The reason those are being put there is obviously it’s a higher risk area, with people breathing heavily.” Brignac listed other areas on campus where the troffer systems will be installed. “All the areas where they’re high-use and capable of putting them in, we’re putting the troffer systems in,” said Brignac. “Pennington has them in the main exercise room, and then in the locker rooms. The other ones of those are going in the math lab in the library. Because of its usage, we have to put a higher number of people in there, and that room is isolated off from the rest of the library, and then the lobby in Garrett.” All of these technologies are working to accomplish the same The troffer systems take the form of a drop-in light fixture. These have been installed result, which is to hinder the amount of damage the virus can cause. in the exercise room in the REC. This area is considered higher risk for COVID-19 due to traffic flow and constant heavy breathing in the area. Symiah Dorsey/The Lion’s Roar see STERILIZATION, pg. 3 Index
Wednesday H 82 L 58
Campus Life.................................2 Opinions.....................................3 A&E............................................4
Sports & Fitness...........................5 News..........................................6
Stay Connected With Us! Like and follow @lionsroarnews.
Volume 92, Issue 8 A Student Publication www.lionsroarnews.com lionsroar@southeastern.edu
Page 2 | October 13, 2020
The Lion’s Roar | Campus Life
Meet your Homecoming Court: The road to royalty
Members of the Sweetheart and Beau Courts were asked by The Lion’s Roar to provide input regarding the position on their respective court.
Sweetheart Court: 1. Taylor DeBourg 2. Destiny Richardson 3. Alyssa Pardee 4. Nicole Redmond 5. Shaelyn Martinez 6. Madeline Lato 7. Caitlin Harris
1.
4.
7.
10. 13.
Beau Court:
8. Jawaun Walker 9. Darnell Butler Jr. 10. Travis Jones 11. Brent Webb 12. Zachary Poche 13. KeRon Jackson 14. Basanta Khakurel
2.
5.
8.
11. 14. Photographer: Jordyn Franklin/ The Lion’s Roar
3. Taylor DeBourg Senior Kinesiology TLR: Why do you want to be Homecoming Queen? “Homecoming Queen is not just a title for me. To be nominated and awarded Homecoming Court is an accomplishment in and out of itself. Serving as Southeastern Louisiana University’s Homecoming Queen would exemplify everything I am doing and continue to do as a student, leader and mentor here at Southeastern Louisiana University.” TLR: What is your favorite aspect of Southeastern? Why? “My favorite aspect at Southeastern is its overall atmosphere. The friends I have met and people I have encountered along the way have opened my eyes, mind and created a greater experience for me here on Southeastern’s campus.” TLR: Share one of your favorite memories from your time at the university. “One of my favorite memories occurred when Dr. Eric Summers shared his appreciation for my hard work and accomplishments. When you are a student, working one to two jobs, joining and working with several organizations, helping serve the Louisiana community and giving your 110% towards everything you do, knowing that someone so accomplished and revered at Southeastern has noticed your work is amazing and humbling.” Destiny Richardson Junior Art TLR: Why do you want to be Homecoming Queen? “As an involved student, it’s important to represent the student body at a larger scale. I feel that, when it comes to Black students and Black females, we definitely need that representation. I want to do that for our student body.” TLR: What is your favorite aspect of Southeastern? Why? “For me, I just love the environment. As an Orientation Leader, I’ve gotten to learn a lot about the buildings and their history. So, I feel a lot of appreciation just passing through and looking at the trees, knowing each tree has a name. The environment is impactful in itself.” TLR: Share one of your favorite memories from your time at the university. “There are so many good memories. I would say my most recent favorite memory would definitely be when I
6.
9.
12.
crossed in Fall 2019 for Alpha Kappa it is for students to become involved TLR: What is your favorite Alpha. It was such a surreal moment.” on campus and make it their campus.” aspect of Southeastern? Why? “The relationships and the personableness. Alyssa Pardee TLR: Share one of your favorite You can walk across campus, and Senior Family Consumer memories from your time at the nine times out of ten, I will walk past Sciences university. someone I know and smile and say “There are so many. My favorite hey—just knowing that even though I TLR: Why do you want to be memory at Southeastern was when might not be able to see them every Homecoming Queen/King? I worked for the Campus Activities day, they’re still there.” “When I found out Phi Mu had Board, and I was the membership nominated me to represent them and manager. I hosted our annual holiday TLR: Share one of your favorite run for Homecoming Court, I was party in December. My committee memories from your time at the truly honored. Ever since I started members surprised me. They brought university. at Southeastern in the fall of 2017, I me cards and gifts, and it just really “One year for Homecoming, have fallen in love with it every year showed that everything you give to we played the ‘Minute to Win It’ since. To represent a place that I keep this university gives back to you.” game, and I won one of the games, so near and dear to my heart would be and I turned around and saw the an opportunity that I would be forever Shaelyn Martinez organizations and the crowd cheering. grateful for. My Lion Pride is one Junior Communication Sciences It was awesome.” thing that will stay with me forever, and Disorders and I would make sure to show that if Caitlin Harris chosen as Homecoming Queen.” TLR: Why do you want to be Senior Kinesiology Homecoming Queen? TLR: What is your favorite “I would be thrilled to be named TLR: Why do you want to be aspect of Southeastern? Why? Homecoming Queen because I Homecoming Queen? “My favorite aspect of Southeastern would love to represent both of my “I want to leave a legacy here on is the close-knit community that is organizations. It has been a while Southeastern’s campus. I knew from found within our campus. Becoming since my sorority, Alpha Sigma Tau, the moment I stepped foot here that it a Lion meant creating a college and my organization, NSSLHA, was part of my mission to be an active experience that would be filled with have had a member on the court. So, leader on campus and have a positive endless opportunities for memories being able to represent both of these impact. Through Homecoming and friendships. I know that when I organizations is something I would be Queen, I feel like I could reach a lot leave Southeastern, the connections proud of as Homecoming Queen. I am more people.” I have made are ones that will last a so thankful for their support.” lifetime.” TLR: What is your favorite TLR: What is your favorite aspect of Southeastern? Why? TLR: Share one of your favorite aspect of Southeastern? Why? “My favorite aspect is the fact that memories from your time at the “My favorite aspect of Southeastern Southeastern is like a family to university. is the welcoming community. Living me. I have met so many people in “One of my favorite memories in Hammond and being involved different places. Everywhere I go and from my time at Southeastern was on campus for the past three years everywhere I turn, I have someone during football season last year. It was has definitely grown my love and that I know, and they’re like a part of the River Bell Classic and the energy connection for Southeastern. I feel my family.” that was in Strawberry Stadium that so at home while I am here and that night was memorable in itself. There is definitely the thing I love the most TLR: Share one of your favorite were people I didn’t know sitting next about being a Lion.” memories from your time at the to me, but that didn’t stop us from university. screaming in excitement together or TLR: Share one of your favorite “My favorite memory thus far is giving each other high fives. Even memories from your time at the joining my sorority. Outside of being though the game did not go as we university. a member of Southeastern, I am a planned, that did not change the Lion “One of my favorite memories is member of this organization that’s love that each student had leaving actually from Homecoming Week filled with thousands of people that Strawberry Stadium that night.” last year. I participated in the Lip have similar goals as me. We’re all Sync event, and it has definitely like-minded people but also different Nicole Redmond been the highlight of my college in our own ways.” Senior Social Studies experience. Being paired with another Education organization and perfecting our dance Jawaun Walker while staying up all hours of the Senior Communication TLR: Why do you want to be night was so much fun. I made so Homecoming Queen? many connections and have so many TLR: Why do you want to be “I want to represent my sorority unforgettable memories.” Homecoming King? and thank Southeastern for all the “I want to be Homecoming King things that they’ve given me in the Madeline Lato to leave a legacy but to also show last four years. I felt like this was a Senior Marketing students that anything is possible. good opportunity to show my love for As a Black male on campus, we go the school.” TLR: Why do you want to be through many challenges. So, to Homecoming Queen? “I want to be achieve a great accomplishment, I TLR: What is your favorite able to represent the university. There will hope to inspire the next person aspect of Southeastern? Why? is so much I have benefitted from to go above and beyond and to get “My favorite aspect is definitely just being here at Southeastern. Right involved because it will really change the student life. I worked with CAB now, we need a little light. I’m excited your college experience.” for a few years and then I joined about continuing on with a little bit of Greek Life, and I really saw how easy normalcy.” TLR: What is your favorite
The following members are a part of the Homecoming Court, but 12. Zachary Poche will not be running for The Homecoming King: 13. KeRon Jackson 14. Basanta Khakurel 10. Travis Jones 11. Brent Webb
aspect of Southeastern? Why? “My favorite aspect of Southeastern is the involvement and engagement. It really gives students a safe place to grow as individuals and the opportunity for students to grow as leaders. That excitement is needed, especially through programming and events.” TLR: Share one of your favorite memories from your time at the university. “One of my favorite memories would be the Homecoming tailgate. It’s people everywhere dancing, hugging, eating and having a great time. People enjoy seeing people they haven’t seen in a long time, and everyone just celebrates. It’s so unfortunate we won’t get that this year, but I can’t wait for the years to come.” Darnell Butler Jr. Senior Management TLR: Why do you want to be Homecoming King? “Being Southeastern Louisiana University’s 2020 Homecoming King would be an amazing experience. My aspiration is to leave my Lion Legacy to have an everlasting impact on Southeastern’s campus. By serving as Southeastern Louisiana University’s Homecoming King, it will illustrate that being involved and leading by example will improve your life experience and overall success throughout college.” TLR: What is your favorite aspect of Southeastern? Why? “My favorite aspect of Southeastern is the campus environment as a whole. Throughout my time here at Southeastern, I’ve had the chance to interact and engage with several students from various backgrounds and walks of life. The opportunity to meet students, staff and faculty members on our campus has made each day on our amazing campus more enjoyable and worthwhile.” TLR: Share one of your favorite memories from your time at the university. “Outside of my studies and involvement with organizations, my favorite Southeastern memory occurred during the River Bell Classic Game versus the Nicholls State University Colonels. It was an exciting and exhilarating moment to be a part of our student body supporting our fellow Lions on the field. At that moment, I realized what true Lion Pride was.”
For the full schedule, visit lionsroarnews.com.
OPINIONS | The Lionʼs Roar
OCTOBER 13, 2020 | PAGE 3
It is time to start taking men’s mental health seriously In an era where mental health problems are at an all-time high, it feels like men’s mental health is somehow still swept under the rug and not talked about like it should be. Gerard Borne M e n ’ s STAFF REPORTER mental health is slept on because of the macho stereotype portrayed in society. The “rub some dirt and shake it off” ideology is how men are supposed to operate and carry themselves. This is how many people are raised, whether it be the men’s parents, guardians or their peers and friends in their youth. Men feel as if they are soft for speaking out about mental health. In early September, Fox Sports analyst Skip Bayless criticized Dallas Cowboys starting quarterback Dak Prescott for publicly stating he had mental health issues due to his brother’s passing in early 2020. Bayless went on to state that “Dak is a leader of America’s team and shouldn’t be public about his mental health.” health. absurd reaction, other NFL to do. I commend Prescott for much light shed on it. This led to a wide outcry in Maybe this is a step in the players stepped up and backed stepping out and speaking up According to an article the media about men’s mental right direction. After Bayless’ Prescott, which is the right thing in a situation that does not have written by Maria Conut for
Medical News Today titled “Men’s mental health: Man Up is not the answer,” the World Health Organization conducted a study in 2018 regarding suicide that found men are three times more likely to commit suicide than women. Why do we hear so little of organizations to help men? My theory is that society thinks this is less of an issue than it should be. Of all years, 2020 has been statistically one of the worst for men’s mental health due to isolation from COVID-19. In an article written by Brian Mastroianni for Healthline titled “How Covid-19 Is impacting Men’s Mental Health Differently,” it states: “A new survey has found that the COVID-19 pandemic is having a bigger impact on the mental health and general health of American men than many admit.” I hope to one day live in a society where men’s mental health is talked about more publicly and not pushed to the side and swept under the rug. The sad truth is, I can only see this happening in one of two ways: celebrities or athletes speaking on the matter or the topic gaining social media traction and being widely talked about.
To those who are extremely involved (or uninvolved) with politics There are three types of people on the political awareness spectrum: those who think they know nothing, those who think they know everything Elana Guillory and those STAFF REPORTER who decide to steer clear of politics because of how absurd media representations of it are. I am the third type. Yesterday, I had a discussion with a total stranger at PJ’s Coffee who “disagreed with modern feminism” and denied the existence of white privilege in America. I knew he was wrong but did not have the
ability to support my claims with facts and knowledge off the top of my head because I usually steer clear of any news source. I felt a bit helpless in standing up for what I knew to be right. I believe it is important to be educated on social and political issues so that when the opportunity presents itself to discuss them, as it usually does when you least expect it, you can defend your view based on logical conclusions you have arrived at via research and critical thinking. Let me say that again: your view should be based on research and critical thinking. Far too often, people simply regurgitate what they hear
NURSING STUDENTS
continued from pg. 1
would have made throughout the experience would have affected them.” Since the university has converted to hybrid learning, nursing students have returned to a hands-on learning experience. “Fortunately, this semester is pretty close to normal as we are in class, of course following precautions, and we’re allowed to go to clinical,” mentioned Moncaleano. “We have missed out on community activities and things of the sort, but everyone is doing their best to maximize learning.” Austin described the rundown of how classes are being conducted. “In this fall semester we have moved back on campus, taking the necessary precautions to keep us safe,” said Austin. “We have been given the option for our lecture class to go in-person or watch online, which I really appreciate. Being able to be back in the skills lab and hospitals STERILIZATION
continued from pg. 1 Brignac explained the different ways each system works to achieve this goal. “The UV-C spectrum of light goes in and actually does genetic damage to the DNA of the virus itself, causing it to deactivate,” explained Brignac. “The other two technologies use a similar concept, but rather than the UV-C going in and actually destroying the DNA, what happens is those combine and attach to the viral particles and break down the cellular structure of it. It’s a slightly different technique, but what they do is the same end result. The virus is still there, but it can’t do anything. It becomes a shell of a virus that is no different than a piece of dust.” Residence halls are also receiving vapor hydrogen peroxide systems due to the higher risk of surface contamination in those areas. “Vapor hydrogen peroxide is going into all of the residential areas,” shared Brignac. “It does kill what’s in the air, but it also gives you something that affects surfaces, which is what you want in an area where people are living because that’s where you’re more likely to get surface contamination.”
from their peers and media outlets without validating what they heard through credible books, web journals and other sources. The stranger at PJ’s told me things I had constantly heard my dad say, that I had constantly heard from Fox News anchors. Why is it that they all repeat the same things? Why don’t people take the effort to develop their own opinions? We are lazy. We are not confident in our ability to create our own perception of the world. We are too confident and think we are experts about events we did not attend—on people we do not even know. News flash: the media chooses what they show to the public.
has allowed me to learn better and feel a sense of normalcy amid this craziness.” A significant part of being a nursing student includes attending clinicals during the last two semesters of the undergraduate program. “We are required to wear masks for the duration of our clinical day, and we must be screened before entering the hospital,” explained Austin. “However, the patients have been so kind in allowing us into their rooms and letting us be a part of the patient care they recieve. I just finished my OB rotation, and I was allowed to perform all the skills and tasks that I would have been able to pre-COVID.” Austin explained how the experience has changed her, not only as a student, but a person as well. “COVID-19 has helped me to develop a deeper passion for wanting to help and care for those who are sick and hurting and ease their minds as best as I can,” shared Austin. “At first, I was not sure what our clinical experience would look like in the midst of a pandemic, but in most ways I feel like I am receiving the same experience as in past semesters.” In the event of a possible contamination on campus, Brignac described the portable UV-C systems that can treat an area that was contaminated by someone who contracted COVID-19. “If we have a situation where someone is symptomatically exposing something and they somehow or another get here, in those cases obviously we’re gonna send them home, but now they’ve potentially contaminated that office or classroom,” said Brignac. “In those situations, we want to be able to treat it very quickly, so I have some portable UV-C generators that allow me to treat a room in 15 to 30 minutes and clear everything out immediately.” According to the Building Sanitation Solutions page of the university website, the use of the troffer and vapor hydrogen peroxide systems would not cause any potential health risks except for during maintenance, and even then, the risk would be minimal. “Both the Troffer and VHP systems have the bulbs as an integral part of the system and do not present a potential UV-C exposure during use,” states the website. “The only exposure potential is after maintenance and/or repair when the system may have to be switched on to verify the repair while unshielded. This would not be more than a few seconds which is well below the duration (>2 hours) that could generate a hazardous exposure.”
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES The Lion’s Roar is the official newspaper of the students of Southeastern Louisiana University. It has been in continuous publication since 1937. Submissions and letters to the editor are welcomed, but the editor of The Lion’s Roar reserves the right to edit all submissions for grammar, libel and available space, or refuse publication without notification. Submissions must include the author’s full name and either phone number, e-mail or other contact information (not to be published). Faculty and staff members should include their title and department. Students should include their classification and major. By submitting an article for publication, the author understands that the submission will be edited. Organizational News space is provided at no charge as a courtesy for university recognized Greek and Student Organizations. The space of such articles is limited to 150 words. Submissions of this Organizational News must adhere to the same polices as other submissions or letters to the editor, but must also include the name of the organization.
Everything you see on the news is somewhat altered according to the producers’ agendas. If people choose to speak on politics, they should have their own original beliefs, not spit out what they heard billions of times over. People should speak on their own carefully crafted beliefs, and if they attempt to educate others, do it out of the hope that they can influence them to do what is right. Those who are so passionate about politics that it is as though they sleep and breathe it should ask themselves if what they believe is credible. How did they arrive at their opinions and why do they care so much about them? They should reflect on their
All views expressed in The Lion’s Roar are those of the author or, if unsigned, those of the staff of The Lion’s Roar. These views should not be interpreted as the views of the administration, faculty or students of Southeastern Louisiana University. A single issue of The Lion’s Roar is free. Additional copies may be purchased for 50 cents in the Student Union suite 1303. Annual mail subscriptions are $35 within the continental U.S. The Lion’s Roar, in its print form, and associated online or digital versions, are designated public forums. Student editors have the authority to make content decisions without censorship or prior approval. The Lion’s Roar also defends the rights of student journalists relative to freedom of speech and press as stated in Amendment I of the Constitution of the United States of America. The Lion’s Roar is published through the Office of Student Publications, part of the Division for Student Affairs. It is published weekly during regular semesters and monthly during the summer semester.
STAFF Editor-in-Chief - Prakriti Adhikari Office Assistant - Ashlyn Harris Graduate Assistant - Sean Haydel Administrative Assistant - Gemma Carter Coordinator - Lorraine Peppo Director - Dr. Lee E. Lind
opinions, fact-check them with reliable, academic, unbiased sources and be open-minded enough to change them if they do not line up. As a person who has not cared much about politics, I have reflected on why, and I would advise people like me to wonder if there’s something that bugs you about society today. If so, try to care about it just a little more. I say this because a lot of times, when something bugs us only a little bit, it’s usually because we know it is wrong, but it does not affect us directly, so we do not take action on it. Educate yourself on topics like this so in the future, you can stand up for what is right. Not doing
so would be a disservice to yourself and others. To summarize, do not be ignorant. Take the time to reflect on what you believe and fact-check it before spreading misinformation among others. Educate yourself so you can do good for yourself and other people. Also, check out the book “Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria?” by Dr. Beverly Tatum (I am reading it now so I can be prepared for the next time I see that guy at PJ’s), and if you know of a good book about the gap in American gender equality, please let me know. I will be reading it next.
Speak
Out
Why do you think it is harder for an adult American man to seek mental health help? “They can’t fix it even though they view it as a problem. Most men want to fix problems.” @JORDONARMAND “Mostly, you see doctors that don’t know you and think you’re there for pills. Even worse if you’re black.” @Z_L_BOODROW
Follow The Lion’s Roar on social media @lionsroarnews
GENERAL OFFICES SLU 10877 900B Lion Lane North Campus Main Building, Room 154 Hammond, LA 70402
Like and follow @lionsroarnews.
TELEPHONE NUMBERS 985-549-3527 (newsroom) 985-549-3842 (fax) 985-549-3748 (advertising) 985-549-3731 (Student Publications)
www.lionsroarnews.com www.selu.edu/lionsroar lionsroar@southeastern.edu
The Lion’s Roar | Arts & Entertainment
Page 4 | October 13, 2020
Columbia Theatre screens “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” for the Halloween season TRINITY BROWN Staff Reporter
The Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts screened “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” featuring a shadow cast directed by Joe Burns, a professor from the Department of Communication and Media Studies. The show premiered at the Columbia on Oct. 8. The Oct. 9 screening was moved to Oct. 16 due to Hurricane Delta. General admission tickets were sold online for $15, and bags filled with items to throw during the screening were sold for an additional $5. “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” originally premiered in 1973 as a staged musical production, and a movie of the same title was released two years later. As part of the show’s tradition, the audience throws props during certain points in the show. VIP bags were available for purchase to encourage audience participation. Burns shared that he used to see performances of the show when he was a student. “The Rocky Horror Show is an experience that I advise everyone to see if they can,” Audience members were encouraged to dress up as a part expressed Burns. “Before I got to college, when of the experience. Members of the shadow cast acted out I had more time on my hands, I used to go to the certains scenes from the show for the audience. Trinity Brown/ theater almost every night to see it.” The Lion’s Roar Burns grew up with Jim Winter, artistic
director of the Columbia Theatre. They would go see the show as often as they could in their town, so it was almost instinct to put the show on the big screen this Halloween season at the Columbia. Winter shared that they sold all 216 VIP tickets a week before the show. The bags that were sold to audience members to participate in the show were filled with gloves, confetti poppers, toilet paper and more. Audience members were also encouraged to dress up as any character from the movie, dance to all the dance numbers and shout out any lines that they wanted throughout the show. While the show does contain some mature content, Burns shared that it can still be enjoyable for those who choose to participate. “The show is just all about participating and having fun,” said Burns. “It can be a little inappropriate in some scenes, but nothing that bad. You just should be prepared to come with an open mind.” The theatre asked students from the university’s theatre program to dress up and attend the show as the shadow cast. These students dressed as a chosen character from the movie and acted out some of the scenes in front of the stage. They interacted with the audience and reminded them of when to throw certain props.
Although there were no rehearsals or casting calls, the shadow cast attended meetings with Winter and Burns to discuss the layout of the show. Shelby Grantham, a sophomore middle school education major, admits that even though she is not a theatre student, she has always wanted to be a participant in the shadow cast for “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.” “I wanted to be a part of Rocky Horror because I have been in love with it ever since high school,” shared Grantham. “I went to a strict private school growing up, so my mom would take me and tell me I couldn’t tell anyone. It was like our little secret night. After she started taking me, I began to take friends and we have been going every year.” Amy Schneida, a junior biology major, is another fan that said being in the shadow cast for “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” had been on her bucket list for a while. “The movie is such a cult classic, and a great celebration of everything strange and bizarre,” expressed Schneida. “It’s perfect for a spooky season. I was really excited to dress up and dance and have fun with the rest of the cast and the audience.” The Oct. 8 showing began at 9 p.m., and the Oct. 16 showing will begin at the same time.
Grad Fair for Fall 2020 graduates held at The REC
This semester, Grad Fair was held in The REC Center to allow for social distancing. Students bought and used their own caps and gowns for pictures and wore masks throughout the event. Despite the changes, Lion families still came out to support their soon-to-be graduates. Symiah Dorsey/The Lion’s Roar
“Homecoming @ Home” features Q&As and a virtual 5k ELANA GUILLORY Staff Reporter
This month, the university is set to carry out the first ever virtually accessible Homecoming Week. Among the 2020 lineup are two virtual events: “Roomie’s Homecoming Run: A Virtual 5k” and “Coffee With the Dean.” “Roomie’s Homecoming Run: A Virtual 5k” will begin on Saturday, Oct. 17 and will end on Oct. 24. Registration costs $15 and will close on Oct. 22 at midnight. Participants will receive medals, and the
three men and three women with the fastest times will be awarded extra prizes. Everyone that participates in the 5k will be required to submit a picture of how they tracked their time, whether it be via an app, a stopwatch or on a treadmill. According to Jason Templet, assistant director of competitive sports and fitness, the creation of “Roomie’s Homecoming Run” was a joint effort by the Alumni Association and The REC. “Our REC department has completed a few virtual runs in the past few months, and the Alumni Association wanted to
partner with us about offering one for Homecoming Week,” shared Templet. “Olivia Marceaux and myself think it would be a great way for alumni all over the country to be connected with this 5k.” Templet listed reasons he believes people should participate in Roomie’s Homecoming Run. “People should participate because it is a great way to be active, give back to Southeastern, and you get an awesome SLU Roomie medal out of it,” said Templet. “Coffee with the Dean” will start Oct. 19 at noon with
Karen Fontenot, dean of the College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences. The order of each interview will proceed as follows: Toni Phillips Ph. D., dean of the College of Business on Oct. 20, Dan McCarthy, Ph. D., dean of the College of Science & Technology on Oct. 21, Ann Carruth, Ph. D., dean of the College of Nursing & Health Sciences on Oct. 22 and Paula Calderon, Ph. D., dean of the College of Education on Oct. 23. Each session starts at noon. According to Olivia Graziano, associate director of alumni programming, each
session will last approximately 30-45 minutes and will be carried out through Zoom. Executive Director of Alumni Relations Michelle Biggs will introduce each dean, and a reporter will interview them. Viewers will be allowed to submit questions during the webinar that the dean will answer toward the session’s conclusion. Graziano believes both alumni and students can learn from the interviews. She also believes that the webinar series will offer valuable time for reflection on each college’s successes and future plans.
“Although 2020 has been crazy, it’s given us a unique opportunity to slow down and reflect on what we’ve accomplished and where we’re headed next,” expressed Graziano. “‘Coffee with the Dean’ gives participants a chance to acknowledge what the colleges have accomplished and get information about what’s next for our university from valuable sources.” Both events require prior registration. The link to register can be found on the Southeastern Homecoming page of the university website.
Sports | The Lion’s Roar
October 13, 2020| Page 5
Caldwell looks to lead Lions to 2021 Southland Championship
Nick Caldwell, sophomore guard/forward, averaged 6.7 points for the Lions in 2020 while also collecting 13 blocks over the season. The Lions went 8-23 in 2020 and also failed to reach the Southland Confernce Tournament. GERARD BORNE Staff Reporter
After averaging 6.7 points, 3.0 rebounds and 13 blocks for the Lions men’s basketball team in 2020, sophomore guard/forward Nick Caldwell is looking to lead the Lions to a 2021 Southland Conference title. Caldwell, a 6-foot-7-inch Geismar native, committed to the university after being heavily recruited by former head coach Jay Ladner and current head coach David
Kiefer. Caldwell spoke about where his love of basketball came from and how his dad supported him through every step of the way. “Ever since I could pick up a ball, I played basketball,” shared Caldwell. “I played a lot when I was young in AAU tournaments, REC ball and in high school. My dad would support me all the way from stuff like buying me basketball shoes to paying for all my AAU tournaments. He was there for me every step of the way.”
To Caldwell’s surprise, his freshman season was easier than he expected it to be coming out of high school. “Coming into my freshman season, I thought it was going to be a lot more difficult than it really was,” explained Caldwell. “We only won six games, so that part was a little disappointing. We were a very young team with nine freshmen. It was expected for us to only win six games.” After only winning six games, Caldwell expects the Lions to improve on their win
total in 2021. “We had a lot of freshmen play last year, so we have underclassmen with a lot of experience now,” shared Caldwell. “We also brought in some guys that are capable of helping us win some games, along with five transfers who really know how to play.” Caldwell explained how last season was difficult for him at times because of his weight of 200 pounds at the forward position. “I put on some more muscle this off-season and got myself
up to 215 pounds,” claimed Caldwell. “My main focus on the off-season was to make myself bigger and stronger, and adding a few pounds definitely helped me with that.” The Dutchtown alumnus shared what his favorite memory as a Lion has been so far. “I would definitely have to say our first game against William Carey University,” explained Caldwell. “That’s when I had my career high, and even though it was an exhibition game, it was still
File Photo/The Lion’s Roar
cool to play in that game.” Along with playing basketball in high school, Caldwell was also a member of the Dutchtown baseball team. “One thing I regret doing was quitting baseball when I was a sophomore in high school to focus on basketball,” said Caldwell. “I am a huge baseball fan and wish I would’ve played all four years.” The Lions will open up their 2020-21 season on Nov. 25 with an opponent to be named later.
Lions men’s basketball promotes Riley Conroy to interim assistant coach GERARD BORNE Staff Reporter
After serving one season as the men’s basketball director operations and recruiting coordinator, Riley Conroy has been promoted to assistant head coach. Conroy was promoted from director of operations and recruiting coordinator over the off-season. A notable recruit that Conroy signed over the offseason was Jamon Kemp, the son of six-time NBA All-Star Shawn Kemp. Conroy, a New Orleans native, played collegiate basketball at Tulane University for his father during his first two seasons and notable National Basketball Association coach Mike Dunleavy Sr. in his latter two. The Tulane alumnus spoke about how it felt to be coached by his father in his freshman and sophomore season. “I learned a lot from my dad, actually, and we grew to be even closer than we ever were,” said Conroy. “At first, we were like any father and son with just a normal relationship, but we grew closer when he became my head coach. At first, it was weird to notice the difference between head coach and Dad, but I got used to it after a while.” Conroy shared how his knowledge of basketball grew even more when Dunleavy Sr. became his head coach. “Coach Dunleavy was an amazing coach for me,” expressed Conroy. “I learned a lot about defensive schemes as a plate under Coach Dunleavy. I also learned how important it is to watch film on other teams and how to dissect game film.” Riley Conroy was coached in college at Tulane University by former NBA Coach Following his career as a Green Wave, Conroy took his first of the Year Mike Dunleavy Sr. The Tulane alumnus is currently obtaining a MBA coaching job at Sunrise Academy in Wichita, Kans., a school in Sports Administration from Florida Atlantic University. Courtesey of Sports Information where basketball players developed their skills post high school.
“Sunrise was definitely a unique opportunity for me,” claimed Conroy. “It was a school where you were one-on-one with players all the time. I even lived with a few guys and learned a lot about coaching from them. Those guys are off doing amazing things now, and I loved every second of coaching in Kansas.” With no ties to the university, Conroy explained how he found out about the coaching opportunity for the Lions. “My dad found out about the opportunity from his assistant at Minnesota University,” explained Conroy. “He let me know about it while I was in Kansas, and I thought that it was a nobrainer because Louisiana is home to me. I applied and got the job.” Conroy shared how he was promoted to associate head coach last month. “Coach Kiefer called me into his office and let me know about the opening,” said Conroy. “He said that I would be great in this job role and that they could definitely see me doing this as a career. I think I can make this a career as well.” Conroy shared what the Lion’s goals are for the delayed 202021 season. “For us, it’s going to all be about handling adversity. This season especially, we will be faced with many tests,” shared Conroy. “The success or failure of our team is going to based on how we respond to adversity. With COVID-19, our travel plans may change, somebody might test positive, game times may change and injuries may occur. It’s going to come down to how well we respond to those situations. So as far as goals, I just want our team to become masters at handling the unknown.”
SLU Set to Open Fall Practice Fall World Series Report: Game 1 Preparations for Spring Season HAMMOND, La. – The Southeastern Louisiana football team will officially open fall practice on Monday at Strawberry Stadium. With the competition season postponed to spring, the fall practice session will be similar to its normal spring practice schedule. Starting Monday, the Lions will practice on Mondays and Wednesdays at 3:40 p.m. and Fridays at 10:10 a.m. through Nov. 13. “We’ve basically taken the fall semester and turned into the spring from a development and preparation stand point,” Southeastern head coach Frank Scelfo commented. “When the season was postponed to the spring, we shifted our focus to doing the things this fall necessary to help us compete for a championship in the spring.” Southeastern, ranked No. 21 in the Stats Perform preseason poll, is coming off a 2019 season that saw the Lions earn a trip to the FCS playoffs and defeat No. 8 Villanova in a 45-44 first-round thriller. SLU finished 8-5 overall under Scelfo, the Southland Conference Coach of the Year, and was ranked in both the final Stats Perform (No. 19) and AFCA Coaches (No. 18) national polls. SLU is scheduled to open its six-game, conference-only spring schedule on Feb. 27 at Sam Houston State. The Lions host McNeese on March 6 at Strawberry Stadium to open its home schedule. TICKETS For ticket information, please contact the Southeastern Athletics Ticket Office at (985) 549-5466 or visit www.LionSports.net/tickets. SLU is scheduled to host McNeese (March 6), Northwestern State (March 13) and Lamar (April 3) this coming spring. SOCIAL MEDIA For more information on Southeastern Football, follow @LionUpFootball and @Coach_Scelfo on Twitter, like /SLUathletics on Facebook and subscribe to the SLUathletics YouTube channel.
HAMMOND, La. – A sixth-inning error proved critical Sunday as GATA took advantage of the miscue on the way to a 6-2 win during Game No. 1 of Southeastern Louisiana’s Heart of a Lion Fall World Series at Pat Kenelly Diamond at Alumni Field. Freshman outfielder Joe Delaney reached on an error by Mamba (0-1) third baseman Johnny Johnson, helping spark a three-run inning that broke open a tie game. Evan Keller followed with a single through the left side and Jacob Burke was hit by a one-out pitch to load the bases. Nick Ray followed with a two-run single through the left side, putting GATA (1-0) up 3-1 in the game. Bryce Grizzaffi followed with an RBI single through the left side, plating Burke with another run. GATA added a pair of insurance runs in the eighth, including one on Eli Johnson’s RBI double to left-center field. Mamba’s run in the ninth narrowed the gap, but was not enough to wipe out the deficit. Freshman right-hander Kyle Bartley (2-1) earned the win, working 3.1 scoreless innings in relief of starting pitcher Will Warren. Will Kinzeler (1-2) suffered the loss, allowing four runs – three earned – in 5.1 innings pitched. He allowed five hits and struck out six batters. Grizzaffi (3-for-4) and Eli Johnson (2-for-3) led the way at the plate for GATA. Johnson and Ray each drove in a pair of runners while Grizzaffi drove in one and scored a pair of runs. Brandon Hale led Mamba at the plate with a 2-for-4 day, including a triple and an RBI single. FALL WORLD SERIES The Southeastern Louisiana baseball program continues its annual Heart of a Lion Fall World Series, Oct. 13-14, at Pat Kenelly Diamond at Alumni Field. The final two games are scheduled for 6 p.m. both Tuesday and Wednesday. 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. 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.
Page 6 | October 13, 2020
The Lion’s Roar | Campus Life
Mapping out the profession: Nursing professor Q&A JORDYN FRANKLIN
things would normally be handson. We’ve had to find alternate ways to teach some of these same concepts virtually or remotely.”
Staff Reporter
Nurses stand on the front lines of healthcare systems, providing patient care for the ill and injured. However, what lies behind the scenes may be unknown to some. Ashley Bordelon, assistant director and professor of nursing, shared an insider’s perspective on the nursing field and all that it entails. For those who are not familiar with the nursing field, how would you summarize what it entails? “It’s a very diverse field. Even though you do have to have a degree and a licensure, the opportunities within the field itself can stem anything from direct patient contact at the bedside all the way to nursing informatics where you’re helping systems develop documentation.” Nursing students complete activities in the lab. The nursing field covers a wide range of professions, from direct patient care to nursing informatics. Jordyn Franklin/The Lion’s Roar How has COVID-19 changed the landscape of the nursing field as a whole? definitely required us to increase there’s been more changes from we’re teaching our future nurses. “From a nursing perspective our judgment and critical the preparation side of things—in We had to be very innovative at the bedside, I would say it has thinking. I would be implied to say the world of academia and how with instruction because a lot of
of work we’re in. A majority of nursing—while there are some aspects where you’re not dealing with patients directly—you’re dealing with either patients or Direct patient care can come people, so there is some level with its own set of challenges. of care of compassion you see How do nurses handle the across the board.” stress of the job? “Every nurse has to find what What advice would you give their outlet is. Self-care is very to students who are currently important. It is one of the things pursuing their dream of that we teach to students. Even working in the nursing field? “There’s so many things I in the workforce, it is reinforced. If we don’t care for ourselves, would tell them. I do feel one of it’s very challenging to care for the things I say most commonly others. Self-care can be anything to most students is that this is not from praying, meditation, a job you do for the money. This exercise and spending time is the job that you do because you with family and friends—just love what you do. While some finding that outlet to decompress may pursue careers for dreams after working and putting that of big bank accounts and lots commitment into patient care.” of financial awards, to me, this career is most rewarding to fulfill What sort of person do your heart. I would tell people you think gravitates towards who are pursuing a career in it to nursing? Is there a common follow their heart and their dream thread anywhere? because they can do anything “I would definitely say those they put their mind to. It is one who want to care for others. Care that should be pursued because and compassion are certainly you love it, and it’s in your heart strong characteristics that a lot to do it.” of nurses have given the line
Admissions reimagines the Lions Pride Preview experience
When students arrive on campus and check in at the Student Union for a Destination Southeastern event, they receive name cards and other university memorabilia. Two potential Lions display their new university merchandise and “Lion Up.” Brynn Lundy/The Lion’s Roar BRYNN LUNDY Staff Reporter
The Fall 2020 semester is seeing a reimagined version of what is usually known as Lion Pride Preview, a day when potential future Lions
visit campus to learn about the academic programs, admissions process and campus life. Due to social limitations, the event has been broken down into smaller pieces to allow prospective students and their guests to continue connecting
with the university both in person and virtually. Destination Southeastern is one of the substitutions for the typical Lion Pride Preview event. While the preview day usually brings nearly 1500 people to campus, registration for
Destination Southeastern events is limited to 150 people per event to account for admissions staff, prospective students and one guest per student. Amanda Hammonds, assistant director of orientation and events, explained what the shorter event entails. “These Destination Southeasterns are more of an overview of admissions and the application process and the financial aid process,” said Hammonds. “They’re very broad and general, a very nice overview. While they’re on campus, we do give them a tour of campus and a tour of housing. Then, they have an opportunity to visit our bookstore and eat on campus. It’s a great opportunity. Also, they can apply while they’re here. We do have an application station.” In addition to spacedout seating in the Student Union Ballroom, Destination Southeastern has a contactless check-in for students and guests to abide by health and safety regulations. Check in is from 5-6 p.m., and the 30-minute presentation by the admissions staff begins at 6 p.m. The next Destination Southeastern is on Thursday, Oct. 22. “We have a mobile checkin for every student who has registered for these events,” said Hammonds. “They’ll get a text message when they’re within a certain area of campus. It’ll say ‘Welcome to Southeastern. We’re so excited to have you here. Click this link to checkin.’ They’ll click that link, and basically it’ll say ‘Success. You’ve been checked into this event.’”
Academic Discovery Sessions are another set of events in addition to Destination Southeastern. According to Hammonds, students who register for one of the 12 Academic Discovery Sessions this semester will be able to head to campus to hear from the faculty, staff and the dean of whichever college their major of interest is in, as well as to tour the department’s facility and learn about the programs. “This is really a piece of Lion Pride Preview,” said Hammonds. “In the past, there was a section of Lion Pride Preview called Academic Discovery, and it was really just a great session where we would just break off students and guests to the student’s academic major.” The first Academic Discovery session of the semester is with the College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences on Friday, Oct. 16 at 1 p.m. on campus. Sessions will be on Fridays at 1 p.m. and Saturdays at 9 a.m. from Oct. 16 to Dec. 12. Students can register and view the schedule on the Admissions webpage. A third option that interested students can utilize is the webinars that the Office of Admissions have available on the website. The “Find Your Roar” webinar series allows students to choose which webinars they wish to attend, from Admissions and Financial Aid to Housing and Student Engagement. “This is something that students can partake in without even coming to campus that they can do when they get home and that their parents can partake in, and they can really participate,”
explained Hammonds. “There is no limit at a virtual event. All of those are virtually, and students can find that information at southeastern.edu/findyourroar.” Students can also interact with faculty and staff through virtual avenues also available on the Admissions website. The virtual schedule can be found there as well. Students can meet with a recruiter, an Admissions counselor or other Admissions staff through these online events. “This is a great opportunity,” expressed Hammonds. “Even though a pandemic is not something that we planned for, we’re going to challenge ourselves to think more creatively. It’s almost like we’re getting the opportunity to do something that we can now do all the time. Students can interact with us virtually if they go to southeastern.edu/connect.” Juanesha Davis, a senior social work major, works as an event specialist for the university. She shared that she was able to fully participate in Lion Pride Preview days in past semesters as both an event specialist and a campus tour guide. “Although we have not been able to put on events that are typically at maximum capacity, we have worked very hard to provide a sense of normalcy to this semester,” said Davis. “However, the events that were approved do change the roles of event specialists and tour guides slightly, but not much. The current events have become more personal, allowing event specialists to fully engage and share their experiences with one family.”
LION UP recovery program to host free Narcan training AUSTIN DEWEASE Staff Reporter
Every semester, the LION UP Recovery program hosts at least one Naloxone training for the Hammond community and students on campus. The University Counseling Center’s LION UP Recovery program is partnering up with the Opioid Mobile Response Team to host a free Naloxone training via Zoom on Oct. 21 at 4 p.m. The LION UP Recovery program and the Opioid Mobile Response Team based in Louisiana are hosting and organizing the training for any students, faculty or staff interested in training on how to use Narcan and what it does. The OMRT will lead the training. Naloxone, commonly referred to as Narcan, is a nasal spray drug that reverses the effects of an opioid overdose and that works on the opioid receptors to stop the chemical reaction from the drug, but only for a very short period of time. The training will include guest speaker Chris Knoblauch, a coroner investigator with the St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office, who will give his input and provide, from his perspective, the effects and what they see in substance abuse cases. Madison Evans, coordinator for Collegiate Recovery at the UCC, believes that it is crucial for people to be knowledgeable about Narcan. “Narcan is critically important for people to be knowledgeable of and make sure they have access to it,” commented Evans. Evans shared why she thinks that events like the Narcan training are important.
The University Police Department officers are trained to administer Nalaxone, the nasal spray administration of the emergency opioid overdose treatment drug naloxone. File Photo/The Lion’s Roar “These events serve as a resource and spread awareness on campus, and we want students to know that there is a Collegiate Recovery program on campus,” shared Evans.
The OMRT, who are partnering with the LION UP Recovery program for this training, is a program under the Volunteers of America SELA, an organization who helps those in need. The OMRT program receives funding through the state of Louisiana for opioid use disorders. Laurie Anderson, a member of the OMRT, explained her role as a counselor on the team. “What I do as a counselor is help people within the community overcome the barriers and obstacles of getting treatment,” said Anderson. When it comes to the university, the OMRT participates in quarterly Narcan education training. Education training is their only involvement with the university. Anderson explained how many young adults get into opioid addiction and abuse. “It is not uncommon for older adolescents and young adults to experiment, usually with alcohol, and it’s also common for someone to become injured and be provided pain pills, and it is very easy to be addicted and become dependent upon those pills,” explained Anderson. “COVID-19 has had a tremendous effect on opioid addiction because of the overall mental health of individuals and increases in overdoses from social isolation due to self-quarantining,” stated Anderson. For more information about the Narcan training organized by the LION UP Recovery program and the Opioid Mobile Response Team, email Madison Evans at recovery@selu.edu.