The Lion's Roar 04/17/2018

’ THE LION S ROAR 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

Hammond, LA

A walk to raise awareness

see PAGE 2

An experience with assault

see PAGE 3

Honoring a legend annually

see PAGE 4

April17, 2018

Track and field aces home meet

The shocking confession ANNIE GOODMAN Staff Reporter

Bruce Javery II has been arrested and banned from campus after confessing to posting threatening messages online and on campus. He was banned from campus and is being charged with terrorizing.

Javery, a member of the campus’ theatre honor organization, Alpha Psi Omega, posted threats to the theatre’s Facebook page and to the doors of the Vonnie Borden Theatre after not being elected to a desired officer position within the organization.

“I had a serious lapse in judgment, and I lashed out in an immature manner that’s completely out of my character,” said Javery.

The threats were posted in D Vickers Hall lobby

always had a smile on his face.”

According to members of APO, this was not the first time Javery had expressed disdain towards the election process within APO. “I and many other members had long talks and words of encouragement with Javery in the past when he was feeling upset,” said Paulus. “We did everything right, including recommending the counseling center on campus. Some people think differently than others, and there is no way to get through to them.”

Javery insists casting directors base their selections on favoritism and nepotism. In his rant on Facebook, Javery also called APO’s faculty

the morning of Wednesday, April 11. The threats were posted in three places including one directed at Professor of Acting and Directing James “Jim” Winter. Javery has made clear that the threat had nothing to do with “The Crucible,” which is to be presented on April 24-27.

After news spread of Javery’s confession, many students who know Javery through APO or other affiliations were confused and hurt by his actions.

Students expressed through social media their fond memories of Javery’s bright and endearing personality.

“Bruce Javery has been nothing but a positive influence on Alpha Psi Omega in the past,” said President of APO Madison Paulus. “He was one of our most active members and

see THEATRE THREAT, pg.8

Communication major Bruce Javery II, an active member of Alpha Psi Omega confessed to posting threatening messages in the D Vickers Hall Lobby. Javery was outraged by the results of the recent APO officer elections. He lashed out at the organization and theatre department with claims of favoritism, nepotism and racism and making threats on their lives. File Photos/The Lion’s Roar

A farewell to Leto: The mark of a legacy

As pictured in a file photo from the 2017 “Division of Student Affairs Convocation,” Student Government Association President Seth Leto is sworn in by Chief Justice Ali LeBlanc. As he prepares to exit, Leto has prided himself on fighting to make changes for all students. File Photo/The Lion’s Roar LARSHELL GREEN

the abilities of Student Government Association President Seth Leto Vice President for firsthand.

Student Affairs Dr. Eric “The day the results Summers witnessed were released, I said, Editor-in-Chief

‘Congratulations, Mr. President. I look forward to working with you,’” said Summers. “Right after he was elected, he was setting up at a campus life event,

Weather

Tuesday H 80 L 57

and I said, ‘Mr. President, you have people to do that for you.’ He responded, ‘I lead by example.’ He’s a go-getter. He’s not sitting back waiting on people to tell him what to do. He just gets up and does what he needs to.”

When speaking to those that work alongside Leto, it is clear that his work ethic is contagious.

University President Dr. John L. Crain has been pleased with Leto’s performance and diligence for presenting the interests of all students.

“He routinely exhibits wisdom and professionalism beyond his years,” said Crain.

“His calm and thoughtful demeanor instills

see LETO, pg. 2

Alumni for

Wednesday H 80 L 61

Campus Life.......................... 2 & 9 Opinions.....................................3 A&E............................................4

Staff Reporter

The Alumni Association is going through a selection process for new board of director members.

According to Executive Director of Alumni Relations Michelle Biggs, the board of directors is “a group that helps and guides the Alumni Association.”

Alumni Relations is currently looking for four executive members including a president, vice president, secretary and treasurer, eight members-at-large and two members appointed by the president of alumni relations. They will all serve for a period of two years.

Biggs explained what roles the board of director members will have in representing the Alumni Association.

“It’s vitally important because they are the leaders of our overall Alumni Association, so they help guide the mission of Alumni Association in conjunction with the mission of the university,” said Biggs. “They represent the alumni of the university, so we want to make sure that

Horoscope, Crossword, Sudoku....5 Sports.........................................6 News...................................8 &10

“Sexual a b u s e affects nearly every aspect of your life.”

-Emily Moïse-Fontenot BRIANNA HAWKINS Staff Reporter

According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, 20 to 25 percent of women as well as 15 percent of men are victims of forced sex during their time in college. For Ashten Roy, this statistic has become a reality.

Roy, a former student at the university, decided to share her experience on being sexually assaulted.

Roy, who attended the University of New Orleans at the time of the incident, says her assault took place at a party during her second semester of college.

She described the scenes at the party.

“Like most college students do, I went to a party and decided to stay sober to ensure my friends got home safely,” said Roy. “As most college parties go, it was loud, hot and crowded. To get away from the crowd and ease my anxiety, I stepped outside to take a breather. As I was outside, I savored the few moments of slight quiet and aloneness as I gathered my thoughts and tried to decide how to tell my friends I was ready

see SEXUAL ASSAULT, pg. 8

Association searches board members

PRAKRITI ADHIKARI

Index

see PAGE 7

they are out there spreading the word of the university and being ambassadors on behalf of the Alumni Association.”

Biggs explained that the new members will be involved with the university by helping Alumni Relations function effectively.

“They need to be involved and to help guide the Alumni Association to set the goals of identifying programs and events that benefit the alumni,” said Biggs.

The call for nominations was sent out via email and social media in March.

Individuals were either nominated by members of university community or through self-nomination. According to Biggs, forms were due to her office on April 6 following the review of application by the nominating committee on April 10.

Biggs discussed the criteria required to be a member, which include being members who paid dues and are in good standing.

“They have to have demonstrated involvement and support of the university over all,” said Biggs. “They have to be

see BOARD OF DIRECTORS, pg. 9

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Page 2 | April 17, 2018

The Lion’s Roar | Campus Life

Walking to raise awareness about suicide ANNIE GOODMAN Staff Reporter

For the second year, a suicide walk, known as “Out of the Darkness,” will be held on campus for individuals who have experienced the effects of suicide in any way or would like to show support for the cause. The walk is being headed by Instructor of Mathematics Sarah Clifton and Instructor of History and Political Science Lori Ostarly-Ulfers.

“It is a walk to raise awareness for suicide prevention,” said Clifton. “We have a very high rate of suicide in college-aged students, especially in St. Tammany Parish. So, this walk is very important. It also works as a real nice way of helping people who have been through it. It’s kind of a healing thing for them as well, to meet other people who have gone through what they’ve gone through.”

The walk is scheduled to be held on Saturday, April 21 from 9-11 a.m. with check-in starting at 8 a.m. In the past, Instructor of Nursing Mitzie Meyers organized the walk. This year she has been preparing Clifton for the job.

“It started last year on campus with Mitzie Meyers, who is still very instrumental in getting this walk going,” said Clifton. “She’s been leading me through the process. She felt strongly that this needed to be on campus. We felt that it was very important that we keep the tradition going. It’s very important to raise awareness. That’s why we’re doing this a second year.

We’d like to make this an annual event. We feel that strongly about the cause.”

Clifton’s personal experiences with suicide in her past inspired her to speak out on the issue.

“I lost my father to suicide when I was much younger,” said Clifton. “I’ve had other family members who have done that. I’ve also met a lot of students who have come into my office and told me LETO

continued from pg. 1 confidence in those who work with him, whether among his SGA colleagues, other students or members of the university administration.”

SGA Chief Justice Ali LeBlanc and Leto met through the SGA Senate and through Greek life. As a friend and colleague, she respects Leto’s transformation of SGA. “Seth has completely transformed the face of SGA for the better,” said LeBlanc. “I look up to Seth as a role model and as someone I would want to model the presidency after.

He did a phenomenal job and exceeded every expectation.”

Leto was named SGA President on April 5, 2017 and was officially sworn in at the Division for Student Affairs Convocation on April 25, 2017.

In SGA, Leto has served as president and was a senator for five semesters, where he was the appropriations chairman in fall of 2016 and internal affairs chairman in spring of 2017.

Although Leto has completed many projects during his position, he recalls some of the highlights of his tenure. One of his first incentives was changing SGA’s logo as an attempt to re brand the office. The decision was highly received by his cabinet members and advisors.

Gallagher met Leto during

Last April, the School of Nursing hosted the university’s first American Foundation for Suicide Prevention “Out of the Darkness” Campus Walk to bring awareness to suicide and mental health on campus. This year, instructor of mathematics Sarah Clifton and Instructor of History and Political Science Lori Ostarly-Ulfers are heading the walk that will include participation from multiple organizations and community members. File Photo/The Lion’s Roar that they’ve had that. So, I feel like there’s a lot of people out there who need to hear and walk.”

Clifton noted the correlation of mental illness and suicide and the stigma associated with them.

“Mental illness is a huge factor right now on college campus, and suicide is often a byproduct unfortunately,” said Clifton. “A lot of students don’t feel that there’s a lot of help. Back when I was younger, there was a lot of stigma attached to suicide, negative.

You didn’t talk about it. When I first moved here, I lied. People asked me how I lost my father, and I said,

fraternity recruitment for Delta Tau Delta and through SGA. He is proud of Leto’s growth as a student leader and initiative in brining the Lion statue to campus.

“It really shows how much he loves SLU and cares about the school and students,” said Gallagher. “Despite him having a lot on his plate, he’s very energetic and takes it all with grace and ease. He gives 110 percent with whatever he put his mind to.”

Another major project was the building of National PanHellenic plots, which cost a total of about $40,000 and were recently approved. The campus can soon look forward to lion statues as well, which will cost about $50,000.

Leto explained that he noticed the need for both physical monuments after visiting other college campuses. NPHC plots are used to give organizations a sense of belonging on campus with the brick pillars.

Now that the political science major approaches graduation in Fall 2018, he prepares to leave behind the responsibility that he’s had for a year.

“It has been extremely fulfilling personally to have grown, and to have seen the work that I’ve done with the administration is rewarding,” said Leto.

During the upcoming

Department of English The English department will present a talk on creative writing and publishing by Writer-in-Residence David Armand. The talk will be held in the Writing Center, D Vickers Room 210 on Wednesday, April 18 from 1-2 p.m.

summer, Leto, along with LeBlanc, plans to complete an internship in Washington, D.C. with United States Representative Steve Scalise.

He also plans to work alongside his family at the Inner Parish Security Company.

The advisers for SGA, Interim Director of Student Engagement Angela James, Assistant Director of Student Engagement Kyle Gallagher and Coordinator of Multicultural and International Student Affairs Marjorie Parker, were all instrumental in helping Leto, LeBlanc and Vice President of SGA Richard Davis Jr. make decisions while in office. Leto is also thankful for the support of Crain, Summers, Executive Director of Public and Governmental Affairs Erin Cowser, Vice President for Administration and Finance Sam Domiano and University Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Tena Golding. He feels that the administrators were supportive of their efforts.

“We couldn’t have gotten large and small projects done without their support,” said Leto.

With campaigning for the election underway, changes in bylaws for campaign expenditures were passed. This year’s candidates for positions in SGA had access to use more funds to promote themselves.

They were also given a month instead of a year to promote themselves.

“We are capitalizing our efforts to increase the visibility of the election,” said Leto. “Hopefully we will see a higher voter turnout and an overall excitement about the election process. We are trying to promote the election and candidates more.”

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‘He was sick, and he just died.’ I was very vague about it because there was such a stigma attached to it.”

However, Clifton feels the stigma has begun to alleviate in recent years as shown by the possibility of hosting a walk.

“Now, people can talk about it,” said Clifton.

“They’re walks. We can raise awareness, and we can let people know. First off, there are alternatives to suicide, and secondly, there are people who understand and have been through it.”

Clifton has high hopes for the walk and how it may

potentially affect participants.

“I hope it raises awareness, and I hope it helps heal some who have been through it and have lost somebody through that way,” said Clifton. “There’s going to be a lot of mental health resources out there that day. There will be pamphlets, brochures, numbers to call. There’s all kinds of things that weren’t there 20-some-odd years ago for students.”

To get involved with the walk, contact Clifton via email or their website.

“If they want to participate in the on-campus walk, we are always in need of volunteers,” said Clifton.

“They can email me at my email address sarah. clifton@selu.edu. They can sign up at the website, which is afsp.org/southeastern.”

Ostarly-Ulfers recently spent time looking at some suicide statistics and was harrowed at her findings.

“What I had read is that 1100 college students a year commit suicide,” said Ostarly-Ulfers. “That is the second leading cause of death of young men of college age, 19 to 24. It’s staggering.”

Ostarly-Ulfers found herself concerned for her daughter, who will be entering college soon, as she noted the suicidal habits of college students, especially those of more expensive institutions.

“From what I read, one out of 13 students makes a suicide plan at some point,” said Ostarly-Ulfers. “At some point, it will pop into their head that it would be easier.”

Before getting involved with this walk, Clifton found herself facing the burden of suicide within her classrooms.

“In one semester alone, I had one student on suicide watch, one who had attempted,” said Clifton.

“I have a letter where one student had gone and got help and thanked me later. It’s different now than it was 20 years ago because young people struggle so much more than we used to.”

At the 2017 “Gumbo Ya Ya” celebrations, President of the Student Government Association Seth Leto participates in a ball toss game along with his fiancée Bethany Ogle File Photo/The Lion’s Roar of Leto’s ability to develop bonds with the student body.

His observations have inspired him to run for SGA president alongside LeBlanc. He won the election on Thursday, April 12.

“Seth’s leadership as SGA president has been truly remarkable,” said Davis.

“Coming into this term, Seth and I had a lot of the same goals. For one, we both wanted to be as transparent and open as possible when it came to SGA’s relationship with the student body.”

Summers feels the president of SGA is “the voice of the student body,” and offers this advice to the upcoming president: “You should work alongside the administration to do what’s best for students,” and “Be a great student ambassador.” He feels that Leto’s successor will have big shoes to fill and should focus on gaining perspectives of all types of students and administrators.

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because he seemed more like an administrator than a student,” said Summers. “He was always present. You can only hope to have someone as mature as Seth to take on that position.

He did an excellent job.”

Despite Leto’s success as a game changer for SGA, his reflection in office comes with some cons. He believes that he works alongside great leaders in SGA, but he has hopes for the next president to improve programming and engagement with news leaders and alumni.

“Looking back you wish you had more time to get more done,” said Leto. “There’s still some things that we wish we could have implemented and changed. I wished we could have spent more time focusing on the leadership aspects of SGA. That was a struggle.”

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Davis will officially be sworn in on April 24 at this year’s Division of Student Affairs Convocation. Leto encourages his successor to hit the ground running while being confident, diligent and hard working.

“Start early and don’t stop until you leave office,” said Leto. “The year is going to fly by, and you’re going to look back wishing you had more time. You are elected by the student body and trusted.

The capacity to make change is there. They just have to be able to work at it. Remember that you have a strong voice and more authority than they sometimes realize. Use your voice to be diligent in order to enact the change that is possible.”

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Opinions | The Lion’s Roar

April 17, 2018| Page 3

Decoding the barcode tattoo SPEAK OUT

I currently have six tattoos. The one that people notice the most and always ask about is the one I hate to talk about.

On the back of my neck, is a barcode tattoo with the numbers “10062013” across the bottom. The numbers correspond to my mother’s death date, but the barcode itself Annie Goodman symbolizes the worst Staff Reporter period of my life. When people ask why I would get a barcode, I always respond as if reading from a script, “It represents a time in my life where I felt that as a female I was nothing more than a product on a shelf. I have since moved past that way of thinking though, so I chose to put it on my back where it will hopefully stay behind me.” I then smile awkwardly as they marvel at the symbolism and applaud my “depth.” Every time I answer this, my heart races as I fear they will ask more details on this time in my life.

Because, honestly, there are some days I find myself right back in the summer of 2015. The summer I lost my virginity because I could not make myself say “no.”

He was a co-worker I barely knew who had a bad day one day and asked me to meet him at the park down the street. It was late. I listened to his story then he started kissing me, and then he just did not stop there. I have this broken mentality that if I do not have a clear, logical reason

to say “no,” then it is not valid, and my voice gets trapped in my throat. I am not sure why, but “I don’t want to” or “I’m not ready” is not valid. Instead, I laid there praying for it to end and told myself that as a female, I was only worth my body, so I may as well sell to the highest bidder.

Allow me to clarify. By this, I do not mean prostitution or a monetary bidding of any kind. I meant that he was a genuinely great guy: kind, smart, had plans for his life, had his life together, attractive. I was terrified, disgusted, distraught, confused. After, I did not know what to do. All I knew is I was scared and alone. So, I did nothing. I genuinely believed that the problem was just me, that I was just broken somehow.

In an instant, I became so powerless that I just stayed with him and let it continue for months because I was unable to say “no” to anything anymore.

I never told him the truth of how I felt, and to this day, I do not blame him nor harbor any ill feelings towards him. The way I see it is he did not know any better than I did. It was not until freshman year of college when I attended a mandatory sexual assault presentation that I heard the phrase “Consent is a free, clearly given ‘yes,’ not the absence of a ‘no.’” While sitting in the back of the Student Union Theatre, the lightbulb finally went off in my head. I realized why I was so miserable and that I was not a broken human being for not “enjoying” it. Until very recently,

I believed that although technically it was rape, it was not “rape.” I was among the majority that delegitimizes sexual assault if the victim does not kick and scream, but only in my own case. Yet, writing that now, I still feel like I’ve written a lie and that I am trying to make something more out of nothing. I am not sure if that is because I do not want it to be true or if I am afraid of how I think people will perceive me. I know that I could wake up tomorrow and delegitimize my experience again. It is an ongoing internal conflict.

Since having this epiphany, I have grown tremendously and opened up more than I ever believed I could. However, I still have not moved past the events of that summer, the fear, the sorrow, the anxiety, the confusion, the emptiness. I am often unintentionally sexist. I do not approach nor start conversations with males. I am extremely uncomfortable around men. My skin crawls at the touch of a member of the opposite sex, no matter how benign. The thought of being with someone in a sexual way makes my stomach churn. Through the years, I have fortunately started some development on resolving these discomforts, but I know I have a long way to go. So, I will continue to hope that one day I can be with someone.

This is not something I like to talk about. Honestly, I am not sure if I have

Do you find nice guys/ good girls or bad boys/bad girls more attractive? Why? “I like the good girls because I guess I’m the bad one, and I gotta keep my balance somewhere.”

Shelby Hano Senior, Psychology

“Good girl/good guy I guess. I just like quiet.”

Khaled Harmoush Sophomore, Computer Science

“Bad girls. They’re hot but also dangerous.”

Sydney Simpher Junior, Communication

see SEXUAL ASSAULT OPINION, pg. 9

Sexual Assault in the United States -One in five women and one in 71 men will be raped at some point in their lives .

-In the U.S., one in three women and one in six men experienced some form of contact sexual violence in their lifetime.

-51.1 percent of female victims of rape reported being raped by an intimate partner and 40.8 percent by an acquaintance.

-52.4 percent of male victims report being raped by an acquaintance and 15.1 percent by a stranger.

-Almost half (49.5 percent) of multiracial women and over 45 percent of American Indian/ Alaska Native women were subjected to some form of contact sexual violence in their lifetime.

-91 percent of victims of rape and sexual assault are female, and nine percent are male.

-In eight out of 10 cases of rape, the victim knew the perpetrator.

-Eight percent of rapes occur while the victim is at work.

-Statistics taken from the National Sexual Violence Research Center (2018)

“Good boy/good girl type because it’s positive.

It’s a good influence on society as a whole.”

Vincent Hart Freshman, Biological Sciences

“If you’re a bad boy, I’d just rather you be a bad boy and be honest with me. That’s how I feel. It doesn’t matter if you’re bad or good as long as you’re keeping it real the whole time.”

Tamaira Williams Freshman, Athletic Training “I prefer a combination of both for guys.

You can’t really classify a person one way or another. Everyone is a little bit of everything.”

Alicia Legnon Junior, Psychology

Field Guide to the nice guy, misogyny by any other name Like every sensible child, I grew up fearing the monsters hiding under my bed, in the closet and in every shadow.

In time, I learned that these monsters rarely bother Zachary Araki with such A&E Editor obvious tactics and instead often disguise themselves as people walking around us such as the “Nice Guy”.

Before you scoff, here’s the seemingly mandatory disclaimer. No, this is not a generalization of all guys nor condemnation for having a Y chromosome. Some people might do nice things just to actually be nice; although, I may disagree about its frequency.

The “Nice Guy” might not even be a guy.

The “Nice Guy” trope is a collective, romanticized delusion that we feed like an addiction. If a guy pines for a girl, we say, implicitly or explicitly, that this “hopeless romantic deserves” her regardless of her feelings. We see it from Ross Geller in the TV show “Friends,” Leonard Hofstadter in “The Big Bang Theory,” Severus Snape with his devotion to Lily from the “Harry Potter” series and any number of “adorkable” guys in entertainment. He seems sweet.

He listens to her problems, gives her a shoulder to cry on,

is devoted to her, does stuff for her. Obviously, he is entitled to the girl, like she’s a prize ribbon handed out for checking off a list of criteria.

Saying, “nice guys finish last” or any derivative, is the infantile excuse of the insecure, centered on the belief that the guy knows what’s better for her than she does. It ignores the girl’s feelings and thoughts, asserting that she is incapable of making rational, independent decisions. Maybe she doesn’t like you because you share no common interests. Maybe you aren’t what she’s looking for.

Maybe she simply feels nothing towards you. Not reciprocating your feelings means nothing more than that. When rejected, the self-proclaimed “Nice Guy” often turns nasty, a goblin shedding his mask, blaming and degrading the target of affection. Despite the many potential variables at play, the “Nice Guy” cannot fathom how such rejection may stem from any deficiency on his part.

At its sticky core, the “Nice Guy” shies away from selfimprovement, and despite its absurdity, we enable this inane belief.

Acceptance of this behavior feeds the fantasy of numerous guys dreaming about playing the hero and saving the damsel in distress, then expecting sexual “payment” or “gratification” for being nice, for being human. There exists

no exchange where you can save up nice acts and hope to trade it in for sex, affection or just positive attention like she’s a vending machine. Somehow, this “Nice Guy” becomes a hero for not raping, assaulting or otherwise abusing women.

Do you really expect a prize for what should be basic human decency?

What is called “devotion and loyalty” to this dream girl is no more than putting her on a pedestal. Believing that she can do no wrong is idolization, not love, and no one could fulfill that ideal. It is based on a lack of knowledge, being willfully blind to who she is as a person, refusing to get to know her as more than an object of attraction.

It’s imagining some deeper connection or relationship with this person than actually exists.

Maybe “Nice Guy” met this girl once, and he already believes they would be the perfect fit for each other.

The misogyny of the “Nice Guy” appears more subtle than the usual display, but they just do a better job of masking it.

Central to the “Nice Guy,” is the perception of the woman as a sexual prize to be won, viewed more as an idealized romantic interest, an Aphrodite or Helen of Troy than a person with actual thoughts, feelings, considerations, problems, flaws and desires. The “Nice Guy” tricks us into sympathizing with him for the mere fact that

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he feels. The “Nice Guy” might not say “grab ‘em by the p---,” but his insistent advances and excuses still stem from the same sense of entitlement.

The “Nice Guy” is not just some harmless guy either.

People eventually turn their rage outwards. We excuse or turn a blind eye to abuse because he seems nice and “sensitive.”

We easily see the sloppy jerk or power-driven suit as capable of abuse, but we also see how some seemingly nice or sensitive act leads people to proclaim that he would never do that, that these allegations are ruining the life of a good, respectable man. He apologizes. He does and says nice things, or used to. He’s sensitive, maybe even a bit of a dork. He follows the script.

Entertainment and popular opinion condition us to believe that these are the harmless guys, the good ones, the one to bring home to the parents, and who would ever suspect that sweet, caring, standup guy of being abusive?

We protect the abuser and shame the abused into silence through these beliefs.

According to a 2010-2012 state report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in four women “were victims of sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner with negative impact such as injury, fear, concern for safety, needing services.”

We like to imagine abusers and rapists as the guys who pull the wings off flies, but he can just as easily be the guy who smiles at us, who drove us to the airport that one time, who comforts us and dries our tears, who remembers our birthday and gets a nice gift, who makes us laugh whenever we see him. The one we trust enough to be intimate. It seems like a ludicrous gimmick, but it works. We see these results with former White House staff secretary Rob Porter who was accused of abusing both of his ex-wives. Shortly after Porter’s resignation, the president tweeted about allegations ruining life and career, asking, “Is there no such thing any longer as Due Process?” We see it when people’s instinctive response to the allegations is some guy’s future, as with Brock Turner and the Steubenville High School rape case. We see it from the many defenses worded more or less as “He’s too gentle or nice for such allegations to be true.”

The “Nice Guy” could be that good friend no one suspects, the charmer, the quiet one, the jock, the nerd, the artist, the suit, the brother, the father, the religious, the atheist, anyone really, and I have seen the symptoms expressed in many guys to varying degrees.

Take a step back from the misogyny inherently baked into the “Nice Guy.” Even if

you balk at any mention of sexism, there is still reason to distrust the “Nice Guy.” It is a performance, the siren song steering our boat into the rocks. At best, “Nice Guy” is an entitled jerk, but often, he is the abuser that tricks us into cheering for his disguise, a romanticized illusion we need to dispel. I do not think the “Nice Guy” is always an intentional manipulation, but that’s the crux of it, the true problem, isn’t it? They are conditioned to think it is the correct way to act, to use dorkiness or nice acts as a shield and that requires a reprogramming.

So, solutions, right?

Otherwise, this is just a rant, whining about whiners, and none of us cares for that, right?

It’s simple. Do not trust the “Nice Guy.” And please, let the excuse “Nice Guys finish last” rust away. Extinguish any notion you hold that a few nice acts render a person incapable of cruelty. Avoid reframing the “Nice Guy” as a harmless lie. If you like a girl romantically, tell her. She’ll let you know if she’s interested, and if not, do not relentlessly pursue her. If she decides to be with another guy or no one, respect her autonomy as a human being. No one owes you affection. Being shy, dorky, nice or anything does not entitle you to the affection or intimacy of your Aphrodite. She’s just not that interested in you, and that’s OK.

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The Lion’s Roar Staff Editor-in-Chief - Larshell Green A&E Editor - Zachary Araki Senior Staff Reporter - Jonathan Rhodes Distribution - Jesse Salminen II Office Assistant - Alyssa Larose Administrative Assistant - April Assavedo Coordinator - Lorraine Peppo Director - Dr. Lee E. Lind

PAGE 4 | APRIL 17, 2018

The Lion’s Roar | ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

36th annual ‘Foreign Language Festival’ NIKISUN SHRESTHA STAFF REPORTER

The department of languages and communication organized the 36th annual “Foreign Language Festival.”

On Friday, April 13, high school students gathered to showcase their expertise in the foreign language they have been studying in school.

Students competed in various categories such as prose, poetry, extemporaneous speaking, music and theatre.

“This is an opportunity for them to showcase their talent in the language that they love to learn,” said Instructor of Languages and Communication Aileen Mootoo-Robertson, an organizer of the event.

Mootoo-Robertson also described how the event promotes the university to high school students who are

deciding about furthering their education in college.

“It is the perfect opportunity for them to see the campus,” said Mootoo-Robertson. “It’s also a promoting tool, hoping some of these students will consider coming to Southeastern.”

The event hosted over 200 students who took part in various competitions. MootooRobertson explained how she and co-coordinator Jerry Parker have been able to coordinate activities to organize the event.

“He has been the one in charge with communicating with the teachers, registering the students, and I am in charge of everything that relates to the campus activities whether it’s posting the signs, creating the names to the time that the students compete at, all the breezeway activities,” said Mootoo-Robertson.

Amanda Santos de Oliveira

was awarded as the Outstanding Senior Student in Spanish Oral Interview. She won a $1,000 travel gift certificate. The award was a new addition to the festival and will allow de Oliveira to travel to a Spanishspeaking country. She shared her thoughts about the event and her plans on how she will use the travel gift.

“It was pretty fun,” said de Oliveira. “I really liked it, and it was a great experience. It was my second year. Last year, I didn’t get the awards. This year, it was really good, and I really like this new category. I really didn’t think I was going to win it. I would like to go to Bolivia to see my cousin. I love Bolivia. I studied about it.

I want to take advantage to see my cousin that I haven’t seen in a long time.”

The festival included other new additions to enhance the

ambience of the event. This year, popcorn was served in the breezeway. Tables were set up to provide information about the department. The event also coincided with “Lion Pride Preview” day where the students could take tours of campus. The festival featured a 14-minutelong dance performance by Panamanian students.

De Oliveira believes the event provided her initiative to enhance her knowledge in foreign language. She encouraged other students to get the same benefit by participating in such an event.

“It’s a great thing,” said de Oliveira. “It pushes people to say, ‘Hey, it’s a competition.

OK, let me get my studies on for it.’ It helps people to really get into Spanish. For me, it was like, ‘I’m going to learn about a country,’ to know a country a lot better.”

Left, Amanda Santos de Oliveira receives a $1,000 travel gift certificate from Dr. Lucia Harrison for being the Outstanding Senior Student in Spanish Oral Interview. De Oliveira plans to visit her cousin in Bolivia with the travel grant. Top right, a Panamanian student performs “Mirror Devils Dance” in the Student Union Breezeway. The dance followed “Viva Panama,” bottom right, which was the second of three dances. NIKISUN SHRESTHA/THE LION’S ROAR

Recognizing Sexual Assault Awareness Month with a book ANNIE GOODMAN STAFF REPORTER

Following the #MeToo movement, women have come out with their stories of sexual assault and sexual harassment. Among these women was J. K. Stein with her new book “The Director: a memoir.” “‘The Director’ is a collection of raw, unedited journal entries, which I kept while engaging in relations with a high-profile Hollywood director between the years 2008 and 2013,” said Stein.

“My own insecurities and vulnerability at the time allowed The Director to successfully exercise his power through manipulative language and promises of my stardom. The book traces the choices I made, the sexual acts in which I engaged, the disgust I experienced, and the shame I carried

around with me for a decade.”

Stein said it was “the women who were brave enough to tell their stories” that made her feel the time was right for her to publish this book.

“The book was written first and foremost for me,” said Stein. “Writing it was incredibly therapeutic. The book is also, as the dedication points out, for ‘those who broke the silence and to those still searching for their voice.’ It took me 32 years to find my voice, and I hope to inspire others to find and use their voices.”

Because of her post-college experiences, Stein hopes to reach students around that same age.

“College-aged students are my target audience,” said Stein. “I met both The Director and my most abusive boyfriend within months of graduating. I recognize that this is a vulnerable time for many as it is often the first time that one is truly on his,

her, their own without the structure of school and hungry to carve out an identity.”

Stein is hoping to kick-start a conversation on campus pertaining to this topic.

“Southeastern is a decently-sized campus with more than 15,000 students, who fit my target audience,” said Stein. “It is my hope that we can start, or continue, a #MeToo dialogue on campus, which extends beyond the peripheral. Let’s dig a little deeper and together shatter the stigma associated with sexual abuse and mental health. #TimesUp.” Stein hopes people get a “raw, possibly uncomfortable, look at sexual abuse, eating disorders, body dysmorphia and self-doubt” out of her book.

“This book is for anyone who wants insight into sexual abuse, self-destructive behavior and

the complexity of decision-making in the face of power and manipulation,” said Stein. “This book is for anyone who has experienced sexual abuse of any nature and wants to not feel so alone in his, her, their experience. This book is for anyone who wants to process in the company of others, and this book is for those still struggling to come to terms with his, her, their choices.”

Stein stressed the importance of being honest about when you make a mistake.

“I hope that by sharing my secrets and my struggles others will recognize that we are all faced with choices and some of those choices don’t come along with black and white answers,” said Stein. “We are all going to make less than ideal choices, and it is important not to hide under the ‘bad’ decisions. Our secrets are what keep us sick and in pain.”

Theatre department presents last play of the spring: Closing the semester with ‘The Crucible’ JACOB SUMMERVILLE STAFF REPORTER

The theatre department will finish the spring semester by hosting “The Crucible” later this month.

The play will be presented from April 24-27 at 7:30 p.m. in the Vonnie Borden Theatre.

Instructor of Acting and Directing Chad Winters shared why this play was chosen.

“We chose ‘The Crucible’ because it is a classic work by Arthur Miller,” said Winters. “Our students learn about him in our introduction to theatre classes. It’s a great opportunity for our students to see a live production of this play.”

Winters expressed that auditions were not limited to the theatre department students.

“SLU students and community members are welcome to audition for our productions,” said Winters.

“Our production has a diverse class of students from all different majors across the university.”

Freshman elementary education, grades 1-5 major DeJuan James explained how practicing with the rest of the cast helped him find his character’s persona, Judge Hathorne.

“What I’ve enjoyed the most is getting with a number of characters on a stage and finding those

opportunities to stand out,” said James. “It can be challenging as an actor when playing a character. You want to figure his/her mannerisms, how will they speak, how do they feel in the moment. It makes it fun in trying to figure out how you can relate to a character.”

James shared that the language in the play was quite difficult to understand at first, even after reading the play in high school. He explained that the upperclassmen have been “very helpful” in

motivating him to continue his career in theatre.

Senior general studies major Shelby Elliot-Layman shared how the underclassmen have positively contributed to the show’s production.

“It’s been amazing to work with freshmen and sophomores on this show,” said Elliot-Layman. “They bring a really fresh, positive and enjoyable vibe to rehearsals.”

Elliot-Layman will be playing Mary Warren and stated that one

flodowntheriver@yahoo.com

of the main difficulties in this play will be to “stay in character in a very tense situation for long period of time.”

James explained his intentions for his performance and details the

audience should be aware of.

“Aside from just really wanting to be a part of this show, I auditioned for this character because I felt that I can give him something to make him stand out,”

said James. “Hathorne is not a man that you can reason with. If his mind is set on something, he will stick to it. That is something you’ll see in the show. It’s pretty hard to get through to him.”

Arts & Entertainment | The Lion’s Roar

April 17, 2018 | Page 5

Festival honors jazz and Evans in Pottle

ZACHARY ARAKI A&E Editor

Jazz swept through the Pottle Music Building with concerts and master classes to honor the 1950 alumnus and seven-time Grammy award winner Bill Evans.

The festival included performances from the Alumni Jazz Ensemble and the Faculty Jazz Trio with guest artist Mary Fettig as well as high school groups for the Louisiana Association for Jazz Education State Music Festival for the 17th annual “Bill Evans Jazz Festival.”

“What I think some people forget is that in the ‘70s and ‘80s, the jazz program here, even though there wasn’t a formal jazz degree, there were several really, really great players that came out of this school that are now working professionals in the New Orleans area and other parts of the country,” said Lecturer of Percussion Michael Brothers.

Saxophonist Kyle Herrera performed with the university Jazz Combo on April 12 in the Pottle Music Building Recital Hall. He explained how the concert went.

“I think that everything came together in the end like it usually does for us, spent a lot of time over the past couple months really working on all this,” said Herrera. “The guys that wrote tunes did really well.

The flute player that joined us did really good. It’s been a really nice time learning all this music, being able to pay homage to who was probably one of the greatest jazz musicians to ever live, go to the same school as him.”

Brothers discussed the talent that can be seen in the university’s alumni.

“You saw it in the alumni band concert,” said Brothers.

“There were several people in the band Wednesday night that were from that generation of players that we heard in the

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late ‘70s and ‘80s. They just sounded great, and I would like to see that come back here.”

The festival also served as a recruitment tool for getting potential students interested in the new jazz studies concentration that will be offered in the fall 2018 semester.

“They’re gonna be very integral to helping us build that degree program,” said Brothers.

“So, they’re essentially gonna become the founders of that program, which is a really unique opportunity because that gives them a legacy that we’re the ones that help start the program. We were the first group of students to be part of this and to take this program forward, and that will set the tone for the rest of it.”

Brothers hopes that the high schoolers attending the festival will decide to join the jazz studies concentration.

“There are a lot of great students in this state that if we can get some of them to really consider coming here and taking part in that degree, they really could create a legacy,” said Brothers.

Herrera shared his thoughts on the annual festival.

“It is really important for the school and the music program,” said Herrera. “It helps uplift the program once a year to look forward to paying tribute to a great figure who came from Southeastern. It allows us to recruit really well for high schoolers who are interested in the program.”

Junior music major and flutist Maryssa Chartier discussed the significance of the festival.

“It’s a super important part of the history here,” said Chartier. “Bill Evans is a really famous jazz player who went here, so we use the festival to celebrate that, and this year we have a lot of high schools coming. They started up a jazz program that’s gonna start in the fall. We’re using this supporters help you squash an unfair claim against you, don’t let this go unchallenged. You need to learn more about the motives of those behind it.

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as recruitment right now, so we’re trying to put on this big festival. That way we can build up the program when it comes around next semester.”

According to Brothers, Evans changed how the piano was approached in jazz.

“Certain key individual soloists started to take the piano in different directions and expand the instrument, and those individuals influenced Evans, but in a really, really general context, the piano was a timekeeping instrument,” said Brothers. “Bill’s influence helped make the piano much more of a solo instrument within the jazz setting. He opened up the context in how it could be viewed, especially harmonically.”

Brothers discussed Evans’ influence on the piano’s use in the jazz trio.

“The pianist is not only the melody, the soloist, all harmonic things that are going on, and Bill’s contribution, he really revolutionized how the piano was used in that kind of trio setting,” said Brothers. “It was groundbreaking, which is why his trio recordings were so revolutionary and so important in the development of jazz, especially in the ‘50s and ‘60s.”

Herrera shared what he enjoys about jazz.

“I love jazz because it’s free,” said Herrera. “It’s called ‘hot music’ originally whenever it was made, and it allows for me to express how I feel, the side of me that I don’t get to show too often but I get to convey on stage.”

Herrera explained his love for performance.

“I love performing because it’s a way for me to really let loose, allow people to connect with me on a different level than I can convey through words,” said Herrera.

Brothers discussed the influence of the university on Evans, especially the teaching he received from Gretchen Magee.

“There was a theory teacher here in the 1940s that was a huge influence on him on how he viewed things harmonically,” said Brothers. “To the end of his life, he talked about how much of a significant influence she was on him, and how he structured things harmonically when playing the piano in the writing that he did, the tunes he wrote.”

Guest artist Mary Fettig performs alongside the university Jazz Ensemble for the 17th annual “Bill Evans Jazz Festival.”

Austin Dugas-Higdon and Kyle Herrera play trumpet and saxophone respectively for the Jazz Combo’s concert on April 12. Brian Williams plays saxophone with the university Jazz Ensemble during their performance for the “Bill Evans Jazz Festival.” Zachary Araki/The Lion’s Roar

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Page 6 | April 17, 2018

Lacrosse’s season reflection

The Lion’s Roar | Sports

Softball regains momentum

SARAH HESS Staff Reporter

In the second year of its installation, the men’s lacrosse team has reaped rewards from gathering members and teaching the basics of the game in their first year. With the progress, the team now expects to advance further in play.

The team is midway through its season with four games left.

Co-founder of the Southeastern Louisiana University Men’s Lacrosse Club David DiPiazza gave his assessment of this season compared to the previous season.

“Last year, it was just kind of more getting everybody together, getting everything established,” said DiPiazza. “I mean, we didn’t really do very well in the games last year, but since then, this year, we’ve done a lot better. Our team’s a lot better this year. We have more people. Just everything’s kind of improved, and our goal this year is just to keep building up from this year into next year and just keep improving.”

DiPiazza explained that the club welcomes all those willing to learn.

“If anyone’s interested in trying it out, we are always looking for new people,” said DiPiazza. “It’s a lot of fun. It does not matter if you have never played before. Half of our team had never played lacrosse before they got to Southeastern. Just come try it out, or if not, at least just come check us out.”

Director of Recreational Sports and Wellness Seth Thomas explained the importance of having sports clubs such as men’s lacrosse on campus.

“I think students need to be involved on campus and in a healthy way,” said Thomas. “Not every person is going to be on the varsity teams. So, it gives people an avenue to participate in sports that they still love, and then also with the varsity sports, you’re practicing like five days a week.

You’re going to study hall, and then time with sports clubs is not that tight. You’re only practicing like two days a week, some games on the weekend and that kind of stuff. So, like I said, I just think it’s being involved in doing something that you love.”

Although their season is in full swing, DiPiazza stated that their team is always welcome to recruiting new players during the semester.

“It’s hard to get new players on the team and get them caught up with everything that we’re doing, but we’re definitely looking for new players,” said DiPiazza.

The team will be focusing on recruiting in April.

“We’ll do tables in the union and stuff like that, just to see if anybody’s interested in trying it out.” said Dipiazza. “There’s no experience required or anything, just like the women’s team.”

DiPiazza has also been a key player both on the field and recruiting helping the women’s lacrosse team’s creation.

“I am one of the main players in getting the men’s team up and going, and it’s just, we’re kind of stable and doing pretty well,” said DiPiazza. “I just thought for whatever reason we don’t have any club sports on campus except for us. Other schools usually have between 10 men’s and women’s sports. My biggest thing is I just want to keep growing club sports, not only to help our club but just to get more people involved at Southeastern.”

DiPiazza believes that with more club sports on campus, more opportunities and resources can be given to the Recreational Sports and Wellness department.

“More field space, more presence as a whole,” said DiPiazza.

Senior pitcher Rachel Hayes pitches from the mound against the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. She conceded six runs during the game against Ragin’ Cajuns. Nikisun Shrestha/The Lion’s Roar NIKISUN SHRESTHA Staff Reporter

The Lady Lions softball team bounced back from a 13-2 loss to the University of Louisiana at Lafayette in six innings with a series sweep against Northwestern State University.

The sweep concluded a fivegame week for the Lady Lions where the team had four wins and a loss.

Head Coach Rick Fremin described how the team coped with the busy schedule.

“Obviously, that’s always tough,” said Fremin. “We had a rain-out makeup game yesterday against ULM on the road. We had a good win on the road against a good team.

We just wanted to bring that momentum here back home to play a ranked team and try and get after them. It didn’t

work our way. We just gotta regroup tomorrow, clean it up and be ready to go against a great Southland Conference opponent.”

Former Lady Lion and senior outfielder Kalyn Watts had three RBIs and a home run in her return to Hammond with the Ragin’ Cajuns. Watts’ performance propelled the Ragin’ Cajuns to a win, much to the disappointment of the Lady

Lions.

Fremin was disappointed with the lack of aggression from the team throughout the game against the Ragin’ Cajuns.

“I was very disappointed in the team tonight,” said Fremin.

“Obviously, in the first inning, we were very aggressive, pushed out two runs across.

That’s our style of play, and that kinda went away for the rest of the game. I thought the pitchers did a poor job tonight.

I told them they’ve got to do a better job.”

Senior outfielder Maddie Edmonston described the loss as ‘pretty embarrassing.’

However, she was optimistic about turning things around.

“We have a great team,” said Edmonston. “We are capable of doing a lot of great things.

We can be inconsistent, but we can also be an awesome team.

So, as long as we bring the team that is focused, ready and mentally prepared and bring the bats with us, we can prove a lot of people wrong.”

The two non-conference games at Monroe, Louisiana and at home prepared the team for their travel to Natchitoches for the Northwestern State series.

“Coming into this week, I was happy to have five games,”

said Edmonston. “I think that’s a good practice to get ready for this coming series. We have a big series against Northwestern.

So, I thought seeing live pitching two times before that and getting to play live games would be great practice. We still have a practice tomorrow.

We’re gonna work hard, and we’re gonna leave this in the past.”

Edmonston described the importance of the win at Northwestern against conference opponents with the team looking for postseason play.

“Last year, it was really tough,” said Edmonston. “All the returner, we know how it is. Missed it just by one game.

That’s heartbreaking. Anytime we drop a conference game that we know we should have won, that really hits us hard because we know just one game away, it can really hurt us. We just have to stay on top of the rest of these games that we have. Come out winning series, winning games.”

The team will face Jackson State University in a doubleheader today starting from 3 p.m. before resuming conference play against University of Central Arkansas on Friday, April 20.

Tennis season comes to a close JENNIFER DETTWILLER Staff Reporter

Members of the tennis team looked back at their final games of the 2017-18 season this weekend against Lamar University and Sam Houston State University and how the season has been overall.

On Saturday, April 14, the Lady Lions were matched up against Lamar after a three-hour rain delay. The team fell short with a 4-2 loss. The 6-1 loss to Sam Houston meant the team finished their season with an overall record of 6-14.

Senior Dalina Dahlmans expressed that “it was a tight match against Lamar.” Dahlmans explained how she managed the wins in both her singles and doubles play.

“I played my heart out this weekend,” said Dahlmans. “I won three out of the last four matches, and I can’t be more proud of myself. I really wanted to win my very last college tennis match, and I did.”

Head Coach Jason Hayes explained how Dahlmans performed on her last weekend as a part of the university tennis team.

“Dalina had a great weekend to close out her career,” said Hayes. “Going 2-0 in singles was great for her.”

The game against Lamar also saw the debut of the pairing of seniors Dany Raygadas and Madina Vorotnikova. Raygadas explained how the game score came down to closing opportunities and how maintaining focus throughout the whole match can make a difference.

“The fight and effort were there, but we have to learn to play smarter,” said Raygadas.

Hayes reflected on the team’s finish to the season this past weekend and explained that it was good for Senior Dalina Dahlmans, top, won the final three out of her four matches as the freshmen to have played in both matches this a Lady Lion. Senior Dany Raygadas,bottom, shares that missed opportunities weekend. cost the Lady Lions this season. File photo/The Lion’s Roar “It was a tough weekend,” said Hayes. “We needed

to win both matches, and we just couldn’t get it done.

The effort is always there. This group always fights and plays their hearts out, and because of that, we always have a chance. We had so many close matches, and this weekend was no different. It’s disappointing because we have worked so hard, and to fall short of our goals hurts.”

Looking back on the season, Hayes explained how the team’s dynamic transferred from court to everyday play and how he hopes the legacy of the seniors will continue.

“It’s a close group, and we had many a laughs this year,” said Hayes. “Our seniors played hard and always represented Southeastern with class, so next season will be about replacing them and continuing to push for the conference tournament.”

Raygadas explained that as a team, “we always give our best and fight for each other and the team,” and that the season came with struggles throughout the season.

“I think we struggled in not taking advantage of opportunities during key moments,” said Raygadas.

“We had two tough 4-3 losses that didn’t go our way, and if that wouldn’t have been the case, we would have had a completely different season. The team just has to learn from this and know that on those matches determination and staying focus on your game are both very important.”

Dahlmans believes the teamwork has evolved throughout the season and explained how she felt about the overall outcome.

“The teamwork couldn’t have been any better,” said Dahlmans. “We are so close as a team on and off the court, and despite losing four seniors this year, the freshmen soon to be sophomores can teach the values we carry in our team to the incoming freshmen.

Overall, the season did not end up how we wanted it to be, but everyone on the team did their best and had the greatest attitude, and that’s what matters.”

Series conceded to NSU NATCHITOCHES, La. – Northwestern State scored twice in the first three innings of Sunday’s series finale, holding off Southeastern Louisiana the rest of the way in the Demons’ 5-2 win at Brown-Stroud Field.

Southeastern (25-15, 12-6 Southland) cut the Northwestern State (19-15, 8-7 Southland) lead in half in the fifth.

Nathan Pilutti, a junior from Destrehan, Louisiana, single up the middle leading off the inning, advancing to second on a groundout.

Brennan Breaud followed up by slicing a double over the head of the left fielder, driving in Pilutti.

The Demons responded with a run in the bottom of the inning, regaining a two-run advantage.

After a double play erased a leadoff single

by Northwestern State, right fielder Tyler Smith pulled a solo home run out of the ballpark to right. The homer chased Lion starting pitcher Kade Granier from the game.

Southeastern pulled back within a run, 3-2, in the seventh.

Pilutti reached on a fielding error by the shortstop to open up the inning. He advanced to third on Trey Harrington’s single through the right side. Breaud once again drove in Pilutti, this time on a groundout to second.

The Demons answered again, this time with

a pair of runs in the bottom half of the inning to take a 5-2 lead.

After retiring the first two batters of the inning, reliever Will Warren issued back-toback walks to designated hitter J.P. Lagreco and Smith. Left fielder Austin Stegall, a defensive replacement in the sixth, greeted reliever Bryce Tassin with a two-run double down the left-field line.

Singles by catcher Daniel Wasinger, pinch hitter Taylor Schwaner and Breaud loaded the bases in the ninth, but the Lions stranded all three.

Nathan Jones (2-3) tossed a complete game for the Demons, earning the win. He scattered eight hits and one walk, striking out 10 batters.

Granier (2-3) suffered the loss, allowing three runs – two earned – in 4.2 innings.

Breaud led Southeastern with a 3-for-4 day at the plate, driving in both runs.

The loss snaps the Lions’ string of 10 straight series victories in conference play.

Southeastern returns home Tuesday, hosting No. 12-ranked Southern Miss for Study Break Night and a Cane’s Challenge at Pat Kenelly Diamond at Alumni Field. First pitch is scheduled for 6 p.m. For more information on Lions Baseball, follow @Lions_Baseball on Twitter, @SLU_LionsBaseball on Instagram and like /SLUathletics on Facebook.

What’s your favorite KSLU program?

SPORTS | The Lion’s Roar

APRIL 17, 2018| PAGE 7

Top finish highlights home meet

Junior Brian Donna, left, prepares to throw the javelin at the Strawberry Relays. He was placed third in the javelin throw category. Senior pole vaulter Devin King, top right, attempts to regain the facility record at Southeastern Track Complex. He held the previous record which was broken by Lafayette High School’s Armand Duplantis with a height of 19-01 feet. Junior long jumper Rodney Ruffin lifts off in his jump at the meet. NIKISUN SHRESTHA/THE LION’S ROAR NIKISUN SHRESTHA STAFF REPORTER

The track and field team rounded off a successful weekend at home with first place finishes in both men’s and women’s categories at the Strawberry Relays.

“We had an exceptional day winning the team title on both the men’s and women’s side and came out of this meet with many new personal bests,” said Head Coach Corey Mistretta. “This meet was a huge success for us.”

The meet took place at the Southeastern Track Complex on Friday, April 13. Mistretta described the experience of hosting the meet, which had 11 teams.

“Hosting track meets are always very time consuming,” said Mistretta. “The week leading up to the event is filled with many tasks, and it becomes hard for our staff to even coach our athletes. That being said, hosting a track meet for our fans and alumni is always very exciting.”

Junior long jumper Rodney Ruffin highlighted the event by recording the third-best long jump by a Lion in taking first at 26-00.75 feet. He

described how he is preparing for upcoming regionals qualification.

“Right now, I’m only taking three jumps in preparing for the regionals track meet,” said Ruffin. “So, just trying to prepare to get used to the pressure of only having to take three jumps instead of six.”

Sophomore hurdler Gerald Coleman broke his previous best time in the 400-meter hurdles by .98 seconds with a time of 53.69 seconds. He described his performance at the meet.

“I felt very good,” said Coleman. “That does not make me feel complete. I’m still moving on towards something even better. I feel like it was a really good race. I was really comfortable on the jump. I kinda fell back, but I’m a good finisher.”

Coleman is coming back from an injury and hopes to endure the injury to deliver better performances.

“I was out for two weeks,” said Coleman.

“I had an injury, which is still nagging, but we’re making things work. You got to persevere through these types of things and keep on running ’cause nothing’s gonna be perfect.”

In the 100-meter race, senior sprinter Cliff Resias won by 0.21 seconds with a time of 10.35 seconds. Resias went on to set a career best with a third-place time of 21.15 in the 200-meter race.

“I was expecting a bit better,” said Resias.

“I got to work on my start, but it was a great day. I just got to come back and work on what I have to work on. This is my last outdoor. So, I’m trying to do my best and come out on top.

I’m doing better than I did last year. I’m keeping it consistent with my 10.3s and the 21s. Just got to break my 21s now.”

Mistretta believes the team still has room for improvement going into the conference championships.

“We still have a lot of work to do in preparation for the conference championships the first week in May,” said Mistretta. “The team needs to continue to focus on their training to improve.

In doing this, hopefully we can perform very well at the conference championship and secure a few regional qualifiers along the way.”

With the team built on a majority of newcomers, Mistretta hopes to guide them

through tough times.

“This has been an interesting dynamic all year long to watch unfold,” said Mistretta. “Early in the season, the new faces brought a lot of new energy and excitement to the team. However, as we begin moving into the championship part of our season, the lack of leadership found in teams with a large numbers of seniors is beginning to show in some areas. We are managing this and helping to mentor our young athletes along this journey. It’s what we do.”

Mistretta shared how he hopes to have more events at the university in the years to come.

“We will always try to host the Strawberry Relays each year,” said Mistretta. “Sometimes, our scheduling doesn’t allow for it. However, I am committed to doing everything I can to have this meet each year. We are also hoping to have the dual meet against Southern every year as well.”

The team will look to carry the momentum of topping the home meet to the LSU Alumni Gold on Saturday, April 21, in Baton Rouge.

The Southland Conference Championships is on the horizon beginning on Friday, May 4.

Women’s lacrosse aims for student engagement DON LAWRENCE STAFF REPORTER

Recently, there has been a push to start a women’s lacrosse club at the university.

As of now, men’s lacrosse is the only sports club students can join at the university.

The sports club aims to

involve students outside of collegiate teams, and hopes students can participate in intramural sports.

Sophomore kinesiology major Heather Honore expressed why she took the role of starting the women’s lacrosse team.

“I played intramural soccer,

and then I sat out a semester because I felt as if I was not interacting enough on campus,” said Honore. “It wasn’t enough to motivate me to go to school.

Then I thought, ‘What can I do to motivate myself or what can I do to motivate more students in similar situations?’ because there are a lot of

students on campus that are waiting for someone to ask them to get involved. They want to. They just don’t know how. For that reason, students are disconnected with school and graduate having not done anything to get the real college experience.”

Honore further explained the process of recruiting and shared how she plans to keep the members motivated without the presence of a team.

“I must keep all the players informed and updated because as time goes by, they’ll lose interest in something they’re not pursuing,” said Honore.

Sophomore art major Dayton Davis expressed how he feels about the variety of activities

on campus.

“There isn’t anything to do besides organizational meetings and housing activities,” said Davis. “Personally, I like sports. I don’t want to be on the collegiate team, but I would like to get the experience of facing off against other universities.

Intramural and club sports are two different things, because it becomes repetitive playing against the same people over and over again.”

Sports clubs consist of a team of at least ten members while intramural requires only five. Sports clubs are not a part of the NCAA, but the members get the experience of traveling to compete against other universities while

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playing intramural sports is a recreational activity.

Junior occupational safety health, and environment major David DiPiazza, the founder of the men’s lacrosse team, explained why he started men’s lacrosse and the plans for starting a women’s lacrosse team.

“I transferred here from Louisiana State University, and I wasn’t really involved in anything here by it being my first year,” said DiPiazza. “I merely was getting acclimated. My roommate and I played lacrosse in high, so here in March 2016, we just were hanging out, and I looked over and asked him, ‘Do you want to start a lacrosse club?’ He said yeah, and the recruitment process followed.

We got enough players, and we competed last year in the Men’s Collegiate Lacrosse Association. There are different conferences within the MCLA because there’s 250 teams nationwide, so we are members of the Lone Star Alliance conference and is made up of teams from Louisiana, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri and Nebraska.”

Anyone looking to start a club can gather ten people, head to the Office of Student Engagement and request an organization packet.

Page 8 | April 17, 2018

The Lion’s Roar | News

More funding needed ZACHARY ARAKI A&E Editor

Students voiced their thoughts on higher education funding at the annual “ULS Day at the Capitol.”

“We, the students in the University of Louisiana System, made a presence,” said President of Student Government Association Seth Leto. “We went to the legislators’ territory, and that is all the statement they needed. They know our message, and if they were able to see our demonstration, they will see that it is important to us. Just being a presence is important to this fight for funding.”

According to a report for the 2017 fiscal year by the State Higher Education Executive Officers Association, Louisiana experienced the second greatest percent decline in public higher education educational appropriations per full-time equivalent student between fiscal years 2012 and 2017 out of all U.S. states. The Louisiana Board of Regents stated in the 2016 report “The Landscape of Louisiana Higher Education” that since 2008-09, tuition and fee increases for four-year institutions averaged about $3,646 per full-time student to compensate for a nearly 44 percent decrease in state support.

“Fully funding the universities is needed so that the universities can better operate and keep up with the other states because if our schools are not as good, students will leave the state,” said Leto.

“TOPS is important because that was a promise to high school graduates, and families have planned on this money. The instability and unpredictability in both university funding and TOPS is problematic, and that is the main thing that we need right now, stability.”

Senator for the college of arts, humanities and social sciences Baylee Smith discussed why having an event like “ULS Day” is important.

“It’s really important that the legislators see the SEXUAL ASSAULT

continued from pg. 1

to go. After a few moments of checking my phone and trying to ease my headache, I realized I wasn’t alone. A man, whom I have never met before, stood in front of me.”

Roy further described the assault.

“As a cautious woman, I stepped away from him and tried to go inside when this stranger grabbed me,” said Roy. “I was then grabbed by my midsection and unable to move. This man would not let me go and dragged me through the house the party was hosted in to a bedroom and locked the door.”

As the assault took place, Roy explained that she was threatened and held at knifepoint while receiving three bruised ribs. She discussed the emotional abuse that accompanied the physical abuse.

“After the incident, I didn’t tell anyone for a while,” said Roy. “I sat in my room and cried. I attempted suicide and asked God why he would let such a cruel person take advantage of me. I was in a very dark place and chose to hold the weight of this burden completely on my shoulders instead of asking for help.”

Roy explained that she suffers from some mental illnesses and is guarded with people.

people behind the funding,” said Smith. “They say, ‘Oh, pass the bill for funding higher education,’ but they never see the students that it affects, and having this event where the students are there and the legislators can personally talk to the students is awesome because they see who they’re passing money for. They see who they’re helping. They see who they’re giving education opportunities to.”

Senator for the college of arts, humanities and social sciences Anna Crawford saw “ULS Day” as a rewarding experience.

“I got to meet students who care about higher education at many different universities in the state and hear from my senator, governor and other politicians who believe in higher education,” said Crawford. “I also got to talk to the news about my thoughts on higher education funding and TOPS. It really made me feel like I was making a difference.”

Smith shared her experience of being at the state capitol.

“We went at about 10, 11 in the morning, arrived at the capitol and got to see some of our elected officials from Tangipahoa Parish, Hammond, surrounding areas speaking about funding higher education and speaking about their support for higher education,” said Smith. “We got to rally around with a bunch of Louisiana school systems and just support one cause and come together to support funding our higher education.”

Leto found the event educational in better understanding the financial situation of higher education.

“It is important that we have events like ‘ULS Day’ to show our voice, and to show the legislators that we are engaged and we are watching what happens,” said Leto. “They need to know our opinions because we elected them to serve us, and these events help us to hold them accountable.”

“ULS Day” also allowed students across the

Chief Justice of Student Government Association Ali LeBlanc, President of SGA Seth Leto and Director of the Office for Student Engagement Angela James head to the state capitol for “ULS Day” to advocate for higher education funding.

Courtesy of Alyssa Larose.

University of Louisiana System to speak up together about higher education.

“I had a great time,” said Leto. “It is always a good experience getting to interact with students across the state at different institutions and seeing our common concerns for higher education and funding.”

For Crawford, “ULS Day” is an opportunity to have her voice heard by government officials.

“It’s much easier for them to cut education if

abused, and I understand that because I went through it,” said Roy. “I want survivors to know it’s OK to hurt, and it’s OK to be mad and ask why. It’s OK to scream at the world. You are stronger than your abuser. I wish I could tell you it’ll get better, but a lot of times the event will still stay fresh in your mind.”

Assistant Director and Mental Health Counselor at the University Counseling Center Emily Moïse-Fontenot explained how sexual abuse affects the victim.

Moïse-Fontenot said, “Sexual abuse affects nearly every aspect of your life including self-esteem and self-worth, boundaries issues, feeling responsible for things that are not your fault, whether you can assert yourself or feel comfortable using your voice, fear that others do not believe you or that you are not worth protecting, difficulty regulating emotions, feeling hyper-vigilant, having nightmares, increase of anxiety and worry, feeling threatened and trust issues to name a few.”

Moïse-Fontenot shared that many victims of sexual assault try to diminish the issue even though it is affecting them.

“When someone violates your boundaries with such acts, it is difficult to put the pieces together,” said MoïseFontenot. “Many of my clients report feeling ‘broken’ after such events. I think it is also important to note that some people minimize or deny the effects of

“This event happened over a year ago, and I still have trouble looking in the mirror,” said Roy. “I don’t like being touched unless I’m extremely close to the person. Before this event, I struggled with depression, obsessive compulsive disorder and anxiety, but these have gotten worse.

Along with those mental illnesses, I’ve also been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. I have trouble sleeping. I have night terrors. It’s been rough.”

Roy believes there are not many resources for victims and that the only way to prevent it is by giving suspects their jail time.

“I don’t think rape or sexual assault is talked about enough, and I think the resources are extremely limited,” said Roy. “Sexual assault happens because some people are just monsters. Nothing irritates me more than people saying a survivor ‘was asking for it’ because people should be allowed to dress how they want without fear of being assaulted.

The only thing that will prevent this from happening so much is to provide better information and make the assaulters face jail time instead of letting them walk free.”

Roy also shared her advice for people who are going through sexual abuse.

“There are so many people who choose to stay silent when they are sexually

they don’t see our faces and hear our voices,” said Crawford. “They need to hear from us to make the best choices for us, and ‘ULS Day’ is the best way to show them that our voices and education matter.”

Smith encourages students to attend “ULS Day” next year and to write to their elected officials.

“In the coming weeks, days that the legislature is in sessions, I really hope that they look back on ‘ULS Day’ and that inspires them to pass the budget that we need passed,” said Smith.

sexual abuse by saying ‘It happened a long time ago,’ or ‘I liked it,’ or ‘It wasn’t that big of a deal,’ and yet they still suffer the effects on a subconscious level.

Many individuals end up consciously or unconsciously enacting or reacting their trauma when it is left unresolved.”

Moïse-Fontenot discussed that there are many treatment approaches, but they are all meant to produce the same outcome.

“Within the last 10 to 15 years, we have seen the birth of many effective trauma-focused therapies,” said MoïseFontenot. “Some of these include somatic experiencing, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, traumainformed CBT and brainspotting. These approaches are different, but all aim to essentially rewire the brain and help clients perceive the trauma differently.

I work closely with clients to regulate their bodies while exposing them to difficult thoughts, emotions and physical sensations. Over time this gets easier, and you learn to have mastery over an event that once left you feeling powerless and out of control. The UCC has two trained trauma therapists that use a variety of trauma-focused therapies including brainspotting and EMDR.” When it comes to what resources would be beneficial to sexual assault victims on campus, Moïse-Fontenot

discussed three options.

“On campus we have several resources that would be beneficial,” said Moïse-Fontenot. “The counseling center for one would be where students would seek psychotherapy and traumafocused therapies. The Office of Student Advocacy and Accountability is where a student might file a report and could choose to have a hearing in order to remove a perpetrator from campus. If the assault happened on SLU campus, you could file a police report with University Police Department to pursue criminal charges.”

Moïse-Fontenot also explained the options for assaults that happen off campus.

“If off campus, you would have to file within the jurisdiction that the assault occurred,” said Moïse-Fontenot.

“Southeastern will even assign you a sexual assault advocate or confidential advisor to walk you through any of these processes. It is important to note that the victim is not forced to press charges. We work to help the student decide what actions they would like to pursue. There is always the option to go to a local emergency room after an assault to obtain a rape kit, which could be beneficial if pursuing criminal charges. Lastly, there is a local hotline, which could help you make decisions in times of crisis.”

‘Swamp Bowl’to return to campus in time for finals week NIKISUN SHRESTHA Staff Reporter

Students are invited to blow off some steam ahead of finals week at this year’s “Swamp Bowl.”

Associate Director of Operations & Facilities Jean Bernard explained the changes to this year’s “Swamp Bowl.” ‘“Swamp Bowl’ is happening in conjunction with ‘Fais Do Do’ on Thursday, May 3,” said Bernard. “‘Fais Do Do’s’ a traditional housing event that they do. We’re combining this year to do them both together. While their event is going on with crawfish and food and drinks, we have our mud volleyball This year’s “Swamp Bowl” is organized in collaboration with Univeristy Housing and Dining tournament going on right by Services’ “Fais Do Do.” The event is free of charge, and registration can be completed through our building. We begin at 3 p.m. that day.” imleagues.com. File Photo/The Lion’s Roar THEATRE THREAT

continued from pg. 1

advisor, Winter, racist.

“Alpha Psi Omega is a benevolent society that can offer great opportunities, but they come at a price one must be willing to pay,” said Javery. “You can be the most well-prepared person at auditions and meet any and all

requirements that they’re looking for, but most of the time, they will always go with their ‘favorites’ instead of those who have worked tirelessly to earn a role.”

However, APO officers feel there is no such thing going on in the play castings.

“There has been absolutely no evidence of favoritism, racism or

nepotism in any of my experiences,” said Paulus.

“Many directors choose to go with a ‘color-blind’ casting approach, meaning they pay no attention to skin color. For example, in ‘Distracted’ there was a Caucasian mom and African-American dad.”

In the voting process, what Javery described as favoritism with members choosing their friends

over qualified individuals, Paulus described as a democratic approach where each member votes anonymously via Google Forms for who they feel is the best candidate.

Candidates have to write a brief description of why they feel they are suited for the position before voting occurs.

Anyone confused or upset by last week’s events

Bernard explained how the in the past, which covered the This year, the Intramural collaboration with University T-shirt of the event, this year Champions shirts will be there will be no fees charged. handed to the winners.

Housing came about.

“In the past, we’ve done an event called ‘REC Fest’ that had crawfish,” said Bernard.

“That was the basis of it, that we’d do crawfish in games with music, and that’s essentially what they’re doing in ‘Fais Do Do’ as well.

So, we figured we’ll just do them at the same day and get as many students as we can in both the events.”

Participants can register for the event at imleagues.com. There has been a change to the cost of registering for this year. While registration charged $10 are encouraged to visit the University Counseling Center. Paulus also asks that anyone who sees Javery on campus contact the University Police Department.

After confessing to the crime, Javery was arrested

by Sheriff’s deputies. He has since been released and has a court date scheduled for June 2018.

Campus Life| The Lion’s Roar

April 17, 2018 | Page 9

Driving drives people crazy? Hard work and dedication pays off

Commuting students shared their experiences traveling to campus for classes and extracurricular activities. Some students discussed their difficulties with parking, time management and spending money on gas. Jacob Summerville/The Lion’s Roar JACOB SUMMERVILLE Staff Reporter

Day-to-day challenges that commuting students face include driving, parking, scheduling activities and finances.

According to a 2015 survey conducted by the United States Department of Labor, full-time college students between the ages of 15 and 49 spend roughly 1.4 hours traveling on an average weekday. This is about 39 hours a month, almost two whole days a month, that commuting students spend traveling.

Freshman computer science major Christopher Koster shared how he incorporates driving into his daily schedule.

“With my commute, it’s about 45 minutes,” said Koster. “So, it’s making time to come here, and then also extracurricular activities, making sure I get home at a reasonable time so I get enough sleep for the next day.”

Sophomore kinesiology major Jada Mansion stated factors that may add time to her commute.

“When it’s cold outside, I have to wake up a few minutes earlier to warm my car up,” said Mansion. “If it’s raining, leaving early is a must because people drive slower. Because of how early I leave, I typically don’t get stuck behind the train, but sometimes in downtown, there are trucks that unload supplies, which can add a few minutes to the drive.”

It takes Mansion “less than 10 minutes” to get from her apartment to campus, but she has to factor in

her morning work schedule as well.

“Since I work at the school, I have to wake up around 5:45 to get ready and get to work for 6:30,” said Mansion. “In the morning, I usually grab a piece of fruit for breakfast and pack my lunch.”

Junior nursing major Carlee Smith feels that driving to campus each day benefits her.

“I enjoy driving to campus every day because I can listen to whatever music I want,” said Smith. “I can listen to the same song over and over again without anybody telling me anything. It kinda helps keep my sanity driving to school every day.”

On top of the time spent driving, students also have to find a parking spot, which is a challenge for some students.

Although Smith stated a positive factor on driving itself, her thoughts on parking differ.

“Parking here is atrocious,” said Smith. “If you get here after 9:00, you’re not going to find a parking spot. So, days like today, I don’t have class until 2:00. I don’t leave my house until 12:30. Otherwise I’m never going to find a parking spot.”

Koster shared his experience with campus parking.

“I travel from Amite, and my first class is at 11 a.m., but with parking being so terrible, I normally always try to get here before 8 a.m. to get a decent parking spot by the University Center,” said Koster.

Koster suggested a potential fix to the freshman parking issues.

“I would say the best way to improve parking is maybe

opening up more sections around the University Center whenever there isn’t an event going on,” said Koster. “Or maybe if upperclassmen parking isn’t completely filled all the time, like if lot ‘A,’ ‘B,’ ‘C’ isn’t filled, then allow some of the freshman commuters to park there.”

Depending on where students live, the price of paying for gas can add up over the months.

Koster shared how much he spends on gas for his truck.

“For school purposes, I normally have to refuel two times per week, and it’s only $45 to fill up my truck,” said Koster. “So, I’m gonna estimate about 360 a month.

For me and my vehicle, I know I burn a lot of gas per week. So, looking at the cost between staying on campus versus how much gas I would burn commuting back and forth, I would love to stay on campus, but some of the housing and meal ticket prices are just so high.”

Since Mansion has a short drive to campus, she spends less on gas.

“Working at the school means that I don’t also have to drive somewhere else, which saves me a lot on gas,” said Mansion. “I usually put $30 in every two and a half weeks.”

These commuters stated that they’d want to live on campus, but the prices deter them from doing so.

“I wanted to live on campus when I was a freshman, but my mom told me I’d have to pay for it myself,” said Smith. “So, I don’t.”

Being a former campus resident,

Mansion weighed the pros and cons of commuting and being a resident.

“I lived on campus my freshman year, and although it was convenient, it was not ideal,” said Mansion. “It’s more expensive too, and there were things I wanted to do that living on campus were not available. It did help me with the transition from high school to college, but it wouldn’t have been impossible to learn along the way by commuting.”

Smith shared her experience about how one of her professors wanted students to contact them if they were running late, and how she was once in that situation.

“The professors are always like, ‘Email me if you’re gonna be late,’ if I’ve ever been stuck in traffic,” said Smith. “One morning, I had a really big project due, and I stayed up all night doing it. Class started at 8:00. I didn’t wake up until 8:00. So, I was freaking out.

I literally forgot to brush my teeth walking out the door, just threw some clothes on, drove all the way out here, turned it in and came back home.”

For freshmen who are considering commuting to campus, Mansion offered some advice.

“If I would have commuted my freshman year, I think it would have been hard for me,” said Mansion. “It would be a 45-minute drive to and from each morning, which would have been a lot of gas money. If freshmen do decide to commute, they need to be prepared for the drive, gas and parking.”

Connecting Lions of all kinds on campus ANNIE GOODMAN Staff Reporter

The university offers a post-secondary educational program to students with intellectual disabilities. According to Director of Lions Connected Dr. Gerlinde Beckers, an associate professor in the department of teaching and learning, this is something rare that makes the university stand out.

“Lions Connected is a program for college-age students with intellectual disabilities such as autism or Down syndrome to get a college experience,” said Beckers.

“We are certified by the U.S. Department of Education to be a comprehensive transition post-secondary program, which means our students are eligible to receive Pell Grants if they qualify, and the students with disabilities audit four hours of courses, one three-hour academic course of their choice. It could be business. It could be early childhood. It could be philosophy, foreign language. The other one hour is a kinesiology health class to learn appropriate recreation skills. Part of their curriculum is life skills, which takes place in the department of teaching and learning, and they learn functional reading, math, budgeting, those types of life skills. Then they also have social skills times learning to appropriately communicate, interview.”

The program is structured to be completed in either two or four years with students aiming to gain employment through completion of the program.

“It starts early with the academic part, and as they transition through the curriculum, it works towards inclusive vocational opportunities,” said Beckers. “We currently have a student working in the library, and

we have a student working at the Early Head Start center on North Campus. The ultimate goal is employment while having a true college experience.”

Although Beckers was not involved with the inception of the program, her experience with special education provided her with the knowledge to run the program.

“I have a background in special education and working with older people with disabilities,” said Beckers. “The idea of the program was generated by a parent of a student with an intellectual disability. He wanted to come to Southeastern, to college. They approached a committee of people, which I was not involved in, to develop a program.

Once the provost and Dr. Crain approved of the program, they asked me to become the director because of my experience.”

Recently, the program became one of three in the state for its students to be eligible for Pell Grants.

“We had to go through a process, and we met or exceeded all the U.S. Department of Education criteria to be a comprehensive transition, or post-secondary program for students with intellectual disabilities,” said Beckers. “Part of that is for the students to be eligible for Pell Grants. Prior to that, if you were not enrolled in college traditionally, you were not eligible for financial aid. Because we have the certifications, our students who apply and who are eligible could receive Pell Grants to come to school.”

Beckers feels this promotes the diversity of the program by not just being available to the elite.

“It means that we’re not singling out those who cannot afford to come to college,” said Beckers. “It’s open to anyone with an

meetings, and throughout the year, we meet on a quarterly basis, and they need to be active willing to give their time and within the alumni chapter or be expertise. They attend four board in a committee.”

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

continued from pg. 1

intellectual disability not based on socioeconomic status. If they qualify for Pell Grants, they can come. Otherwise, they’d have to pay the tuition out of their pocket, or their parents would. Sometimes they can’t afford it.”

The program requires mentors for the students. Beckers feels the program is lacking the campus recognition to better fill these roles.

“One of the biggest parts of the program is mentors,” said Beckers. “We have mentors who are with our LC, Lions Connected, students every day. We hire academic mentors, but we also need social mentors, who are typical aged peers, to be involved with the program. The campus as a whole does not know that we exist. We would have a better opportunity for people without disabilities to get involved in the program.

They can get community service hours.

We have paid mentors. We have volunteer mentors. Just the awareness that the program exists I think is critical for Southeastern community.”

To get involved with mentoring, either volunteering or paid, you can contact the program via Facebook or their website.

“Mentoring is the biggest factor, social mentoring, which is volunteer, or paid academic mentor,” said Beckers. “We do have a web page. We have a Facebook. Lions Connected is the Facebook page. That’s how they can contact us. I think the biggest part is we do a lot of extracurricular activities. We do tailgating. We’ve done homecoming. We did ‘Strawberry Jubilee.’ We did ‘Rock n’ Roar’ just last weekend. It’s just to get involvement to be able to accept the differences of all people.”

The new members will be selected based on the voting done by the dues paying members of the Alumni Association. Letters will be sent to voting members

The Kappa Tau Chapter was awarded the Jessie Wallis Hughan Cup at the “Alpha Omicron Pi International Convention“ held in Washington D.C. Courtesy of Lyndsey Devaney PRAKRITI ADHIKARI Staff Reporter

Kappa Tau Chapter of the Alpha Omicron Pi founded on campus in 1963, is an organization that works in the field of arthritis with its special concentration on juvenile arthritis. The organization recently received an international recognition through an award named after the founder, Jessie Wallace Hughan.

The organization that currently has 85 members received the award at the “Alpha Omicron Pi International Convention” held at Washington Marriott Wardman Park in Washington D.C. held from June 28 to July 2.

According to President of Kappa Tau Chapter and junior elementary education major Lyndsey Devaney, JWH is given to the sorority with the most outstanding service to its college or community and fulfillment of obligations to Alpha Omicron Pi. She described the feeling of being awarded.

“It was amazing,” said Devaney. “The experience was absolutely phenomenal and it was really humbling for us. We didn’t expect it.”

Approximately 20 people participated in the convention including the members of the organization and representatives from campus like Assistant Director for the Office of Student Engagement Kyle Gallagher, Interim Director for the Office of Student Engagement Angela James, Vice President for the Division of Student Affairs Dr. Eric Summers and other professors.

Alongside visiting places in the Washington D.C. area, the team also got an opportunity to learn about ways of personal growth.

“We had a great time in Washington D.C.,” said Devaney. “We were able to go see the monuments.

We also participated in different educational tracks.

SEXUAL ASSAULT OPINION

continued from pg. 3

ever told anyone anything beyond “I am not a virgin, but I have never wanted to have sex.” Writing it now, my hands are shaking, my chest is tight, and I just want to vomit.

To think, my Editor-in-Chief actually said, “Well you have an angle and not a rant, so the hard part should be over” when I propositioned this opinion.

However, in honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, I on April 20, and the ballots will want to share my experiences to be due back on May 18. The let women, and men, know that new members will be notified to they are not alone. Hopefully, I attend orientation on May 25. can gain some closure through the process as well.

We had some on topics like time management, calendar programming, health and life style. There were things that helped us not only as members of our organization but also helped us develop as people throughout our actual career. It was a great experience.”

Junior elementary education major Jade Sheets was not expecting the team to receive the award. She feels the award reflected the hard work and dedication that the chapter puts for its betterment.

“After winning this award, we were asked ‘What’s next for Kappa Tau Chapter?’ and it has left an imprint on us ever since,” said Sheets. “We are determined to continue exceeding the expectations and inspiring ambition. This award is the highest honor, and our founders would be so proud of the ladies that have succeeded them.”

Devaney believes that the chapter seeks for its betterment in the days to come.

“We are always looking for ways to improve as a chapter and to improve our relations with the campus and community through service,” said Devaney.

“We are always looking for room for improvement. And, I was really proud to represent the chapter because I feel like they never look at themselves and congratulate them for the achievement they have accomplished. They are always looking towards the betterment of the chapter and how we can help other people. It only makes us want to further the development of our chapter.”

The organization had its celebration for the achievement on March 10 in Ponchatoula, where several alumni of the organization participated.

During her presidency, Devaney aims to help other members grow personally achieving one of many goals for the sorority on campus.

“My main goal is not only for the chapter to excel but for each individual person to realize their fullest potential and for them to flourish,” said Devaney.

A few points to all readers: Silence is not consent. It is OK to not be ready. It is not the victim’s fault. Speak up and tell someone. If you do not like to talk about it, do not tattoo it on your body.

I know how scary it can be.

I know the pain of thinking it is your fault or that you are damaged goods. It is an incredibly heavy burden to bear, but you cannot allow it to crush you. I am not yet sure if things will all be OK in the end, but I do know that things become more manageable with perseverance. Do not give up, not on yourself, not on love, not on happiness, not on life. The only true strength is resilience.

Page 10 |April 17, 2018

The Lion’s Roar | News

Strawberry Festival

Around

the state

Louisiana takes aim at 1898 Crow era law

BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) — Louisiana is one of only two states in the country allowing a non-unanimous jury to convict a defendant of a felony, and a Louisiana lawmaker says it is time for the practice to end.

Sen. J.P. Morrell says the unusual rule is a remnant of the Jim Crow era, stemming from a constitutional convention in 1898 and longstanding efforts to maintain white supremacy after the Civil War. And he wants a change.

“This is something that is wholly unnecessary that was born of this fusion of racism and DJ Yuan of The Wiseguys sang cover songs at the 2018 “Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival” on the north stage this past Sunday. The “Ponchatoula Strawberry disenfranchisement,” he said. “It’s a self-defeating, illogical position Festival” featured live performances by local musical groups. Annie Goodman/The Lion’s Roar to have two jurors say ‘we don’t think he did it,’ then prosecutors to say we met our reasonable doubt standard.”

The New Orleans Democrat has proposed a constitutional amendment to require all 12 jurors in felony cases to agree on a verdict. The measure is gaining steam in the state Capitol.

Serious felony trials in Louisiana, including some murder cases, can be resolved when 10 out of 12 jurors agree on a person’s guilt. Even Oregon, the only other state to allow split verdicts in felony cases, requires a unanimous verdict in murder cases. Morrell says the non-unanimous jury policy was instituted in order to minimize the voice of African-American jurors.

Angela Allen-Bell of the Southern University Law Center in Baton Rouge says the current system results in “fast-tracking” people into prison. Louisiana has the highest incarceration rate in the county.

“We are not making careful decisions of who is guilty,” she said.

It is difficult to gauge how many people have been imprisoned in Louisiana on split decisions, as not all prosecutors in the state maintain information on how juries vote.

Some divided jury verdicts have

been detailed in the press, such as the 10-2 conviction of a man who fatally shot retired New Orleans Saints star Will Smith and wounded the football star’s wife. The Advocate newspaper’s analysis of felony trials over six years showed that 40 percent of 993 convictions came from split juries.

The lack of comprehensive studies on split jury convictions was cited by Sen. Francis Thompson, a Democrat, before he voted against the measure.

Sen. Mack “Bodi” White, a Republican who voted against the bill in committee and in the Senate, said that requiring unanimous juries may lead to more hung juries and costly retrials. Judges often force jurors to continue deliberations for days, making them hash the issues out until holdouts fall in line or a deadlock ends the case with a hung jury.

“I know it’s different in a jury trial but it’s hard to get 12 out of 12 people in these times to just about agree on anything,” White said.

Pete Adams, executive director of the Louisiana District Attorneys Association, said the group has taken a neutral stance on the bill.

But a former Grant Parish district attorney is fighting for a change.

“This is an advantage for the prosecution, no question about it. It’s unjust and unfair without any question, and it flies in the face of American legal tradition,” said Ed Tarpley, who authored a resolution approved by the state bar association that opposes split jury decisions in criminal cases.

Morrell’s measure passed the Senate by a single vote over the twothirds margin needed to advance constitutional amendments through the Legislature. It now moves to the House of Representatives, the more conservative of the two chambers, for what Morrell expects to be a challenge. If it passes the House, it will go to a public vote in the fall.

-By Anthony Izaguirre, The Associated Press

Top left, Adam Pearce, the vocalist for Mothership: a tribute band to Led Zeppelin, performed cover songs on the south stage Sunday. Top right, The Charlie Landry FILE - In this March 9, 2016 file photo, New Orleans Sen. J.P. Morrell, left, a Democrat Memorial Scholarship booth advertises the items it sold. Bottom left, a festival-goer enjoys Mothership’s performance. Bottom right, a child looks to his parents who chairs the Senate tax committee, talks with a Senate staff member on the final day of the special legislative session on the budget and taxes, in Baton Rouge, La. while riding the spinning teacup ride. Annie Goodman/The Lion’s Roar Morrell wants to strip a Jim Crow-era law from the state constitution that allows felony trials to be settled by divided juries. Louisiana is one of only two states in the ANNIE GOODMAN With Ponchatoula bordering country that allows for people to be imprisoned without the unanimous decision of a Staff Reporter the south side of Hammond, jury. (AP Photo/Melinda Deslatte, File) campus organizations view The 47th annual the festival as a fundraising HE ION S OAR “Ponchatoula Strawberry opportunity. Delta Tau Delta, www.lionsroarnews.com Festival” has come to pass. The Theta Phi Alpha and Phi Mu The Official Publication of the Students of Southeastern since 1937. festival spanned three days and Alpha Sinfonia had booths 1320 N Morrison Blvd featured food, music and rides set up on the festival grounds.

985-542-5555 drawing in crowds from across Delta Tau Delta sold red beans the state and some from out of and rice, fried pickles, jalapeño state. poppers and corn nuggets.

Accompanying the food stalls Theta Phi Alpha sold strawberry were two stages surrounded by shortcake. audiences listening and dancing These organizations were to live music by multiple among numerous other vendors musical groups. There were selling Cajun-style food in also games and rides providing booths lining the edges of the a fair-like atmosphere to the festival. venue as the scent of funnel Sisters Daisai Augustus and cake filled the air.

Inde’ah Augustus, from the city Gonzalez-native Betty of Central, have been attending Stone, 70, said her favorite part the festival for years. They was the strawberries. shared their favorite aspects of “This is the first time I’ve the festival. ever been here,” said Stone.

“The rides are better, it feels Senior, Accounting “It’s nice. My grandson wanted like,” said Inde’ah Augustus. “It to come, and he wanted me to looks like it didn’t have as many come with him.” last time. It looks more fun.”

The festival, held in The festival is described Memorial Park in Ponchatoula, as a “free, family-friendly, opened on Friday, April 13. outdoor festival filled with lots Sponsored by Student Publications and Papa John’s location #1131 Due to weather conditions, the of great food, strawberries, Call or visit www.southeastern.edu/lionsroar EARLY WEEK MANIA ANY WAY YOU WANT IT festival was forced to close on entertainment, and fun for Two Medium Any Large Specialty or for pricing info...

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