Thursday 11/29/18

A Agender, aromantic, asexual experiences at msu PAGES 4-5

T HU R S DAY, N OVE MB E R 2 9, 2 018

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CITY

Michigan’s newly elected officials plan next steps before taking office

BY ANDREW ROTH AROTH@STATENEWS.COM

After a historic midterm election, Michigan will have a new governor, attorney general, and secretary of state come 2019, while East Lansing will get new representatives at the state and federal level.

U.S. REP.-ELECT ELISSA SLOTKIN

Shortly after her upset victory over incumbent U. S. Rep. M i ke Bi shop, R-M ic h iga n, Congresswoman-elect Elissa Slotkin traveled to Washington, D.C. for the first week of an orientation that teaches newly elected members of Congress how to effectively represent their districts.

“Orientation covers both the high and heady and the low and mundane,” Slotkin said.

Between learning about ethics laws and drawing names in a raffle for office space, the newly elected representatives got a tour of the U.S. Capitol and Library of Congress.

“The first time I walked on the House floor was really moving, and to have the docent tell you about the bills that were passed there, the legislation that was crafted in that corner, and the debate, the group, the deadlock on an issue happened in that pew … is pretty amazing,” Slotkin said.

One of Slotkin’s colleagues in the House, incoming Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York’s 14th Congressional District, has been sharing her experiences at the orientation through a series of Instagram live videos that garnered national media attention.

One of the things that Ocasio-Cortez said she learned at orientation is that members often must choose whether to prioritize constituent services or policy introduction, due to limited time and resources. When asked what she would prioritize between the two, Slotkin said she can tackle both sides of the job effectively.

“My goal is to have the best constituent

services in the state,” Slotkin said. “I can walk and chew gum — I can have a great district office, hopefully with some satellite offices in other parts of the district, and I can be a real force on introducing bills and on policy.

“That’s what I intend to do, and that’s part of being this different generation. I think all of us have had other experiences and careers that have taught us a lot about how to get things done and how to keep your focus on the mission.”

GOVERNOR-ELECT GRETCHEN WHITMER

Less than 24 hours after beating her Republican opponent, outgoing Attorney General Bill Schuette, Whitmer met with outgoing Gov. Rick Snyder at the state capitol. The two discussed ways to ensure “an efficient, collaborative process” during the transition period.

While Michigan Democrats made gains this year, they failed to flip either chamber of the Legislature, potentially creating a roadblock for Whitmer’s legislative priorities.

“Governor-elect Whitmer has a record of reaching across the aisle to get things done for Michiganders, and as Governor will work with everyone who wants to build a better Michigan, regardless of political affiliation,” a spokesman for the transition said in an email.

Whitmer will be inaugurated Jan. 1, 2019 in a public ceremony.

SECRETARY OF STATE- E LEC T JOCELYN BENSON

When she takes office in January, Benson will be responsible for implementing two ballot proposals passed by Michigan voters this year, creating an independent redistricting committee and expanding voter rights.

Additionally, she will create an online portal through which Michigan citizens can register to vote after Snyder signed a bill into law allowing for online voter registration.

“Jocelyn Benson laid out a very specific agenda

CAMPUS CENTER CINEMA NOW FEATURING

NOVEMBER 29-DECEMBER 2 The Nun Wells Hall B115 Thursday 7:15pm | 9:00pm

AT T O R N E Y G E N E R A L - E L E C T DANA NESSEL

Outgoing Attorney General Bill Schuette has prosecuted a number of high-profile cases during his final months in office – including those related to the Flint water crisis and Larry Nassar – as well as investigating potential sexual abuse by priests in the Catholic Church.

Nessel’s transition team said she will not publicly announce which cases she will continue until she takes the position Jan. 1, 2019.

“There are tens of thousands of cases pending before the Attorney General and the team is closely looking at the status of those cases and others she may want to pursue,” said Kelly Rossman-McKinney, Nessel’s transition communications director. “She is deeply concerned about the people of Flint and that case is very high on the agenda. However, until she takes office, she will not comment specifically on any pending issue or cases.”

Wells Hall B119 Thursday 7:00pm | 9:10pm

Friday 7:15pm | 9:00pm

Friday 7:00pm | 9:10pm

Saturday 7:15pm | 9:00pm

Saturday 7:00pm | 9:10pm

Sunday 7:15pm | 9:00pm

Sunday 7:00pm | 9:10pm

THE STATE N EWS

during the campaign, which a majority of voters embraced, and when the Secretary-elect takes office on January 1 she’ll have a plan for tackling all that she has to do,” said Liz Boyd, Benson’s spokesperson. “But no one should be surprised if customer service and getting to work on honoring a 30-Minute Guarantee is at the top of her to-do list.”

Ben son i s sc hedu led to meet w it h outgoing Secretary of State Ruth Johnson in early December.

The House with a Clock on its Walls

From lecture to the silver screen, come see a movie at Wells Hall with RHA this weekend!

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Elissa Slotkin talks to the audience during Michigan Congressional candidate Elissa Slotkin’s watch party on Nov. 6, 2018 at the Deer Lake Athletic Club in Clarkston. PHOTO BY SYLVIA JARRUS.

www.rha.msu.ed u ccc@rha.msu.ed u 517-355-8285

THURSDAY, NOVEMB E R 2 9, 2 01 8

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MICHIGAN REPRESENTATIVE-ELECT JULIE BRIXIE

Come next legislative session, which begins next year, Democrats in the state House of Representatives will elect a new leader. Current leader, Sam Singh, D-East Lansing, was termlimited and ineligible to seek reelection this year.

Taking his place in representing the 69th House District will be Julie Brixie. Similar to the orientation Slotkin received at the federal level, newly elected members of the Michigan Legislature attended an orientation within days of the election.

“It definitely makes it sink in that you are going to be a state representative and you’re going to be down at the Capitol making decisions that impact people’s lives,” Brixie said.

During orientation, Brixie met several of her new colleagues and found common ground with some Republicans in attendance. However, she said that Democrats’ failure to retake the state House and Senate could mean that her legislative priorities will need to be reevaluated.

“I had told people (during the campaign) that my personal priorities would be one thing if we had a majority in the House and if we had the governor and everything, but that my realistic sense of priorities would be ‘what can we get accomplished,’” Brixie said. “Since we don’t have a majority in the House, I think my expectations have probably changed as a result of that.”

Statewide policy, not constituent services, will be Brixie’s main focus as a legislator – not because she doesn’t care about her constituents’ needs, she said, but because they care more about polic y t ha n more personal interactions.

“We happen to have the great fortune to live in the 69th District that really is different than a lot of districts in this state and has constituents that are above median incomes on average, above median education levels on average and that have a desire to see policies advanced at the state level,” Brixie said.

However, Brixie still plans to be accessible to the public.

Events listed on her Facebook page show t hat she has already planned coffee hour style forums through March.

Brixie has been sworn in and will begin her term in January 2019 at the start of the 100th state legislative session.

VOL . 109 | NO. 12 THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2018

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Marie Weidmayer

CONTACT THE STATE NEWS (517) 295-1680

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CAMPUS EDITOR Kaitlyn Kelley CITY EDITOR Maxwell Evans SPORTS EDITOR Michael Duke FEATURES EDITOR Claire Moore PHOTO EDITOR Matt Schmucker COPY CHIEF Alan Hettinger DESIGN Daena Faustino Lauren Gewirtz Shelby Zeigler Cover Illustration

by Daena Faustino

Sophomore outside hitter Alyssa Chronowski (11) spikes the ball during the game against Michigan on Nov. 17, 2018 at Jenison Fieldhouse.

PHOTO BY CJ WEISS.

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The State News is published by the students of Michigan State University on Thursdays during the academic year. News is constantly updated seven days a week at statenews.com.

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IN TODAY’S PAPER

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A-spectrum experiences at MSU Aromantic, asexual, and agender students discuss their time on campus.

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Assaulted by coworker, employee tells her story

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Unlimited

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The assailant wasn’t fired, despite MSU Greenline’s policies to the contrary

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Alberta native helps hockey team Taro Hirose is a key piece of the hockey team’s offense with six goals this season.

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FROM THE COVER

A-spectrum RELIGIOUS student DIRECTORY experiences on MSU’s campus Stay up to date at: www.statenews.com/religious

All Saints Episcopal Church 800 Abbot Rd. (517) 351-7160 Sun. Worship: 8am, 10am, & 5pm Sunday School: 10am www.allsaints-el.org

Hillel Jewish Student Center 360 Charles St. (517) 332-1916 Services: Friday night 6pm, dinner @ 7, September–April www.msuhillel.org

Ascension Lutheran Church 2780 Haslett Rd. (517) 337 9703 Sun. Worship: 10:00am Sun. Bible Study: 8:45am Thur. Bible Study: 2pm www.ascensioneastlansing.org Email: ascensionlutheran@att.net

The Islamic Society of Greater Lansing 920 S. Harrison Rd. (517) 351-4309 Friday Services: 12:15-12:45pm & 1:45-2:15pm For prayer times visit www.lansingislam.com/

Chabad House of MSU 540 Elizabeth St. (517) 214-0525 Prayer Services: Friday night services followed by traditional Shabbat dinner @ Chabad. www.chabadmsu.com Eastminster Presbyterian Church UKirk at MSU Presbyterian Campus Ministry 1315 Abbot Rd. (517) 337-0893 Sun. Worship: 10am www.eastminster church.org Greater Lansing Church of Christ 310 N. Hagadorn Rd. (Meet @ University Christian Church) (517) 898-3600 Sun: 8:45am Worship, 10am Bible Class Wed: 1pm, Small group bible study www.greaterlansing coc.org

Martin Luther Chapel 444 Abbot Rd. (517) 332-0778 Sun: 9:30am & 7pm Wed: 9pm Mini-bus pick-up on campus (Fall/Spring) www.martinluther chapel.org Pentecostals of East Lansing 16262 Chandler Road (517) 337-7635 Service Times: Sundays: Prayer 10:30am, Service 11am Wednesdays: Prayer 6:30pm, Bible Study 7pm pentecostalEL.org Denomination: Pentecostal The People’s Church multi-denominational 200 W Grand River Ave (517) 332-6074 Sun Service: 10:30am with free lunch for students following worship.

The PeoplesChurch.com

Religious Organizations:

Riverview Church- MSU Venue MSU Union Ballroom, 2nd Floor 49 Abbot Rd. (517) 694-3400 Sun. Worship: 11:30am-ish www.rivchurch.com

BY ALEXIS STARK ASTARK@STATENEWS.COM

St. John Catholic Church and Student Center 327 M.A.C Ave. (517) 337-9778 Sun: 8am, 10am, Noon, 5pm, 7pm M,W,F: 12:15pm T & Th: 9:15pm www.stjohnmsu.org University Luthern Church (ULC) Lutheran Campus Ministry at MSU 1020 S. Harrison (517) 332-2559 Sun. Worship: 8:30am & 10:45am (Sept–May) Summer Worship: 9:30am www.ulcel.org University United Methodist Church 1120 S. Harrison Rd (517) 351-7030 Main Service: Sun: 11am in the Sanctuary Additional Services: TGiT (Thank God its Thursday): Thur: 8pm in the Chapel of Apostles universitychurchhome.org office@eluumc.org WELS Lutheran Campus Ministry 704 Abbot Rd. (517) 580-3744 Sat: 6:30pm msu.edu/~welsluth

Don’t be left out of the Religious Directory!

Call (517)295-1680 to speak with an Account Executive today

Her dad would talk to her about which boys or girls she liked. He jokingly asked, “Well, what are you, asexual?”

Genomics and molecular genetics junior Brenna Jeffs realized she might find some answers within that identity. She looked up what being asexual meant, and the definition stayed at the back of her mind for a long time.

“I know, personally, I probably realized I was (asexual) when I was around 14,” Jeffs said.

“I really only started the process of coming out and accepting it when I was 18.”

Jeffs is now the president of A-Spectrum, an inclusive group for asexual and aromantic MSU students and their allies. A-Spectrum provides a space for students to explore the evolution of their identities.

Psychology freshman Alex Meister enjoyed their transition into college life at MSU and the chance to explore their asexual, panromantic identity.

“It’s been pretty positive. I think people are really accepting,” Meister said. “This is kind of my first time being out in a lot of different ways, so I feel like people are willing to learn even if they come from areas that don’t have that kind of representation.”

DEFINING ASEXUALITY, AROMANTICISM AND ATTRACTION

Research on asexuality is ever-growing.

Current numbers indicate asexuals make up approximately 1 percent of people, according to the Asexual Visibilit y and Education Network.

Within asexual and aromantic communities, common definitions encompass different forms of attraction. The concept of identity as a “spectrum” allows individual human beings to identify in varying ways, and thinking of attraction on a spectrum eliminates permanent labels.

“A lot of people tend to see asexuality, or labels in general, as very permanent now and I don’t think it used to be that way,” Jeffs said.

“Now it’s like you can’t dare to be wrong or be questioning. But it’s okay to question and it’s okay to come into a space and try to work out your feelings.”

Attraction is a person’s desire or interest in someone, be it romantically or sexually.

Asexuality and aromanticism exist on a 4

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spectrum, much like sexuality.

“Asexuality is a lack of sexual attraction or, because it’s a spectrum, experiencing it very rarely,” according to Jeffs. “Aromanticism is lack of romantic attraction and the spectrum that goes with that.”

Gender also exists on a spectrum. Agender describes people who don’t identify within the binary of male or female. It’s sometimes known as being gender-neutral.

Political science and economics freshman Ash Clarke identifies as agender. There are instances where others don’t always understand what that means. Clarke said they try to embrace the unknown and continue to live by their own rules.

“I don’t fit in a box,” Clarke said. “I express my identity by just being me and not trying to conform to anything. I think it’s pretty simple.”

MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT THE A-SPECTRUM

Because they make up a smaller percentage of the population, asexual and aromantic people often find themselves being asked what their identity means.

“A lot of the time I have to explain it, which I’m fine doing, but it’s kind of frustrating a little bit, where I’m like, ‘Okay, another vocab lesson.’ But again, I don’t mind,” Meister said.

“A lot of people are willing to learn.”

Some p eople have never hea rd t he terminolog y — so they ask for it to be explained, according to Meister.

“Usually, ‘What the heck is that?’ is kind of the top thing,” Meister said.

Asexual, or ace, and aromantic, or aro, people also receive questions about the legitimacy of their identity.

“A lot of people, I think, just don’t think it ’s real. T hey conf use it with asexual reproduction,” said Lucy Angers, a linguistics senior who identif ies as bot h asexual and aromantic.

Stemming from the lack of education on asexual and aromantic identities, other people sometimes feel discomfort asking ace and aro people questions.

“Definitely people don’t think that it’s real and a lot of people ask really inappropriate sexual questions, like about your sex history, whether or not you masturbate, if they can ‘change you,’ that’s a big one,” Jeffs said.

“It’s difficult sometimes because there’s a boundary between sharing overly personal information and still wanting to educate and help people understand.”

Other FAQ revolve around sex.

“I get asked, ‘What if your future partner wants to have sex?’ and for me personally, I’m not interested, but there’s another subset on the spectrum where people would be like, ‘Yeah, sure. Once I get to know the person I’ll be fine,’ or they do it for reproductive means,” one asexual student said.

“ I T ’ S R E A L LY BEING QUEER.”

VULNERABLE

Societal standards place an emphasis on a heteronormative model for relationships, according to Jeffs. Those who do not fit within TH U R S DAY, N OV E M B E R 2 9, 2 01 8

FROM THE COVER

A car in the June 2018 Pride Parade is adorned with the asexual and aromantic flags. PHOTO COURTESY OF A-SPECTRUM.

that model face extra scrutiny.

“You deal with amatonormativity, which is that idea that everyone should strive for a single monogamous romantic relationship, as the ultimate pinnacle of society,” Jeffs said.

“That’s really what makes asexuality and aromanticism queer, because they reject the established cis, heteronormative model.”

While attempting to navigate relationships, asexual and aromantic people face questions about their own lifestyles.

“People hear about different lifestyles and immediately want to go to genitals and sex and if you wouldn’t ask a fellow straight, cis stranger, don’t ask us,” Jeffs said. “This goes for the queer community as a whole, honestly.”

An MSU student who wished to remain anonymous explained the fluidity of identifying on the asexual or aromantic spectrums.

“Asexual does not mean we don’t get crushes,” the student said. “It’s just we’re not always t he most interested in t he physical activities.”

Meister identified communication as an important element of navigating relationship standards with a person who is asexual.

“I have difficulty knowing if people are willing to be in a relationship with an ace person,” Meister said. “I know other people have needs and all that sort of stuff, but I’ve always been open about that with people I’ve been in relationships with.”

A-SPECTRUM AT MSU AND OTHER RESOURCES

Jeffs founded A-Spectrum in response to an LBGT Resource Center Color Me Queer Discussion on asexuality during spring 2015.

People showed up and began meeting on their own. Then, in August 2015, the group became a registered student organization.

“We were like, ‘Hey, it would be really great

if we made a group on campus specifically for ace people,’” Jeffs said.

A-Spectrum at MSU meets at 6 p.m. Tuesdays in Wells Hall, Room A224 to discuss topics of asexuality, aromanticism and other issues involving gender and sexuality. In addition, they promote awareness and education about a-spectrum identities. This provides a home base for people looking to learn more about ace and aro identities.

“I’ve made so many friends and have such a good support system through (A-Spectrum).

It’s really helped me feel better,” Jeffs said. “I have some mental health issues, depression, anxiety and they have really helped me with some of that.”

For students looking for a broader range of assistance and resources, MSU’s LBGT Resource Center’s doors are open, too.

“The center is definitely a community space, a physical space, for people who are of the LGBTQIA+ identities and allies, to come and just feel comfortable and get a sense of relief,” MSU Finance and Administrative Assistant Crystal King said.

The center is a multipurpose space used by students throughout the day. Events are also held in the evenings throughout the year to encourage conversation among LGBTQ students and their allies.

“We also do a lot of connecting organizations as much as we can and making sure that people have a space to feel comfortable on campus and have somewhere they can talk to someone about their issues and problems and look for resources,” King said.

Members of A-Spectrum pose by a the Rock, which was painted for Asexual Awareness Week.

PHOTO COURTESY OF A-SPECTRUM.

friendships on campus.

“If we could raise awareness, it would help a lot of people to feel like they are okay the way they are,” Jeffs said.

Clarke said they feel comfortable living with their agender identity at MSU. “Campus in general and everybody here is pretty chill with my identity and accepting of it,” Clarke said.

Angers believes there is a way to eventually reach understanding and acceptance.

“I would love to just move past awareness, because it seems like we’ve been stuck there for a long time,” Angers said. “I want more people to know what asexuality is ... and I’d like to get to the point where people understand the definition and we can move on to being more welcoming to those people.”

“I don’t fit in a box. I express my identity by just being me and not trying to conform to anything. I think it’s pretty simple.”

Ash Clarke Political Science and Economics Freshman at Michigan State University

BREAKING POINT

DESTRESS BEFORE FINALS

FUTURE FOR COMMUNITY AT MSU Despite confusion and prejudice toward the asexual, aromantic and agender community, MSU students are on a mission to promote awa rene s s, educ at ion a nd supp or t ive

LOTS of prizes to win!

Food, therapy dogs, photo booth, caricaturists and more

Bring gently used clothing and office supplies to donate for students in need on campus!

November 30

December 1

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December 2

Hubbard 132

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1-3 PM

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Follow @msurha on IG and Twitter for more details!

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1 City with a Viking Ship Museum 5 Booking agents?

9 Boardroom graphic 14 Goof up 15 Cheerful tune 16 “Thus with a kiss I die” speaker 17 Par, for stock 19 “No thanks” 20 Spend an evening at home 21 Spam holders 23 Minor facial spasm, say 24 Wanna-__: poseurs 25 Delicate tableware 27 Friendly 30 Rival of Peyton 31 A, in Assisi 32 Best 35 Workplace protection agcy.

39 Same old same old 43 Craigslist caveat 44 University of Alabama head coach Nick 45 Tear 46 Some commuter lines 49 Web designers 51 Special effects scene in a summer blockbuster, say 56 Silent __: Coolidge nickname

57 Year in Mexico 58 Bring in 59 Many a marathon winner since the ‘90s 62 Talmud scholar 64 Slogan for TV channel TBS, and a hint to the first word of 17-, 25-, 39- and 51-Across 66 Pastel shade 67 Word-of-mouth 68 Beethoven’s birth city 69 Spheres 70 Pound enclosure 71 Online crafts store

DOWN

1 Does in 2 Blind piece 3 “The Godfather” hatchet man 4 Did as directed 5 Tartan-wearing group 6 Canola __ 7 Demoted planet 8 Stout holder 9 Shortening brand since 1911 10 Short flight 11 Vintage violin 12 Pine secretion 13 Puccini classic 18 Asset of successful entrepreneurs 22 Monarch catcher

25 Hallow 26 Med. plan choices 27 Largest Caribbean island 28 Burden 29 “Wheel of Fortune” request 33 Solheim Cup team 34 Brew brand with a ribbon logo 36 Formal “Uh-uh!”

37 Kojak’s lack 38 Lake Geneva backdrop 40 “Got it” 41 Gullible one 42 Intl. relief agency since 1946 47 Karaoke machine display 48 Spokane-to-Boise dir.

50 Vienna’s river 51 “A League of Their Own” infielder __ Hooch 52 Studio alert 53 Duke or earl 54 Utter chaos 55 Puccini work 59 Stan’s pal on “South Park” 60 Landers and Richards 61 Part of a SoHo address 63 Petting zoo cry 65 Dust collector

Get the solutions at statenews.com/puzzles Level: 1

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Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit, 1 to 9. For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, visit www.sudoku.org.uk SOLUTION TO TUESDAY’S PUZZLE

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The MSU Board of Trustees voted unanimously to appoint Simon as the 20th president of Michigan State University and the first female president of the university.

AUG. 29, 2016 DENHOLLANDER FILES MSU POLICE REPORT Rachael Denhollander, who was abused in 2000, files a report with MSU Police detailing the abuse she suffered at the hands of Larry Nassar. He is placed on administrative leave the next day. Simon says this is the first time she knew about Nassar’s abuse.

FEB. 3, 2017 SIMON MAKES FIRST PUBLIC COMMENTS Simon writes an open letter characterizing MSU’s approach as “proactive,” and updating the university community on the investigation. She writes that “there should be absolutely no ambiguity that we have always expected and continue to expect every university employee to cooperate fully with any law enforcement investigation.”

DEC. 16, 2017 SIMON UPDATES COMMUNITY ON NASSAR SENTENCING After Nassar was sentenced to 60 years in federal prison on child pornography charges, Simon announces a $10 million Healing and Assistance Fund to provide medical and mental help to survivors.

JAN. 24, 2018 SIMON RESIGNS AS MSU PRESIDENT Amid controversy and calls by legislators, community members and students for her to step down, Simon sends her letter of resignation to the Board of Trustees. After her resignation, she was assigned to an unspecified research position within the university, paying her $750,000 annually.

JUNE 5, 2018

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After being subpoenaed, Simon testified under oath that she had no knowledge that Nassar’s “treatments” were of a criminal nature.

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MAY 19, 2014 SIMON LEARNS OF TITLE IX INVESTIGATION According to court records, Simon was notified of the Title IX Investigation brought about by a complaint by Amanda Thomashow against Larry Nassar by then-Title IX head Paulette Granberry Russell.

Simon maintains she was only told of a “sports medicine doc who was subject to a review.”

SEPT. 20, 2016 NASSAR FIRED BY UNIVERSITY Then-MSU spokesperson Jason Cody was the only member of the administration to make public comment in the wake of Nassar’s termination as an associate professor in the College of Osteopathic Medicine.

APRIL 26, 2017 SIMON WRITES LETTER OUTLINING CHANGES TO MSU HEALTH TEAM Procedural changes to create a safer environment are detailed in open letter to MSU community. In the letter, Simon said she wanted to accelerate the process of reviewing MSU’s Title IX program. She also said the university was making improvements to address sexual assault.

JAN. 19, 2018 SIMON WRITES LETTER TO MSU COMMUNITY IN MIDST OF NASSAR SENTENCING Simon pens an open letter detailing the Board of Trustees’ request for Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette to conduct a review of the Nassar

MAY 1, 2018 SIMON INTERVIEWED

BY MICHIGAN STATE POLICE During this interview, Simon asserted that she did not know the specifics of the Nassar investigation until 2016.

NOV. 20, 2018

NOV. 26, 2018 SIMON CHARGED Simon chose not to enter a plea, was released on a $5,000 personal recognizance bond and was ordered to surrender her passport.

© 2015 The Mepham Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency. All rights reserved.

THE STATE N E WS

CMICHAELSON@STATENEWS.COM

SIMON TESTIFIES FOR SENATE SUBCOMMITTEE

SIMON ARRAIGNED

5/27/15

BY CHASE MICHAELSON

SIMON APPOINTED UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT

Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Lewis

THE LARRY NASSAR INVESTIGATION

ACROSS

L.A. Times Daily Puzzle

LOU ANNA K. SIMON’S INVOLVEMENT IN

Crossword

JUNE 8, 2004

Simon was charged in Eaton County with two felony counts and two misdemeanor counts of lying to investigators regarding the 2014 Title IX investigation by the Michigan Attorney General’s office.

FEATURES

Sexually assaulted by co-worker, employee speaks about MSU Greenline

BY ALEXIS STARK ASTARK@STATENEWS.COM

As an out-of-state student from Florida, comparative cultures and politics senior Kaitlin Chanin enrolled at Michigan State to experience four different seasons and receive an education to prepare her for a law career.

In addition to her studies, Chanin works at MSU Greenline. Located on the second floor of the Breslin Center, MSU Greenline is a studentrun program where employees spend the year contacting MSU alumni for donations. Chanin has worked there since her freshman year.

Chanin said she knew what she was getting into with taking on the additional responsibilities of a job at MSU. But she was not prepared for what became a months-long battle over her sexual assault during her time at MSU Greenline.

KATIE’S STORY

At MSU Greenline, students begin working as callers. After two years, Chanin rose to become a steward, the position above a caller. This was her role when she was sexually assaulted.

Chanin knew her assailant through work.

The two were hired during the same academic year and became friends, often hanging out outside of work.

Chanin went out one night with her MSU Greenline friends to celebrate during MSU’s 2017 Welcome Week. She said that’s when she was sexually assaulted by her co-worker.

After that, Chanin ignored all forms of contact attempted by her assailant. But the two had similar work schedules, which made it difficult for Chanin to completely avoid him.

After repeated interactions with him in the following days, Chanin decided it was enough.

“That was my breaking point,” Chanin said. “I had thought about reporting it, but didn’t know what to do and just that day, I don’t know what happened, but it brought me to that point.”

DECISION TO REPORT

She took the first step to report the assault Oct. 26, 2017. She explained her situation to Nicolas Valentine, her shift’s production manager.

“I didn’t know what else to do,” Chanin said.

“All I knew was that by addressing it with someone who was higher than me, they would do something about it.”

MSU’s Office of Institutional Equity, or OIE, states all university employees — except for select positions — are obligated to make a report after being made aware of relationship violence, stalking or sexual misconduct allegedly perpetrated by a member of the university community.

After a mandatory reporter is made aware, reports are supposed to be filed with OIE and the MSU Police Department. Because Chanin’s assault occurred off-campus, the East Lansing Police Department was involved instead.

Meetings with OIE and ELPD took place the week after Chanin’s report. Following a report, OIE says they typically reach out to the claimant and respondent and complete an investigation within 60 days.

Chanin’s case stretched from November 2017 to April 2018 — about double the allotted time.

MSU GREENLINE’S RESPONSE

According to OIE’s final report on the matter, an investigation found sufficient evidence to prove Chanin’s case. OIE concluded the assailant “violated the University Relationship Violence and Sexual Misconduct Policy” and their final report would be “submitted to the University’s Department of Student Life student conduct system to determine additional steps.”

That decision was not made final until April 3, 2018.

During that time, Chanin continued to

work at MSU Greenline. Her employment required her to undergo regular employee evaluations. In one, Chanin was rated poorly for her “at-work attitude.”

She then disclosed what happened to her supervisor, who requested anonymity. Chanin explained her change of attitude to her supervisor, also a mandatory reporter.

Aside from Valentine, higher-up MSU Greenline personnel were not made aware of the situation until Chanin’s supervisor took it to MSU Greenline Assistant Director Justin Bricarell and Senior Director Kathleen Deneau of MSU Annual Giving. Deneau oversaw MSU Greenline.

“Upon learning about concerns happening with employees in Greenline, we followed university protocol in immediately reporting the situation to the Office of Institutional Equity,” Deneau wrote in an email. “We acted swiftly with the information once it was shared with us, and we took all allegations seriously as they were presented.”

Deneau deferred further comment to university spokesperson Emily Guerrant.

“I can say though, university wide, that in any situation if there is a finding, disciplinary actions are case by case,” Guerrant said. “There is no one-size-fits-all. It is the units — in this case the Greenline program — the unit working with the OIE office and the human resources office determine what the most appropriate punishment would be.”

Bricarell did not respond to multiple requests for comment.

Chanin, her supervisor, Bricarell and Deneau sat down for a meeting to decide how to proceed with Chanin’s continued concerns. Chanin said she would quit if they did not fire her assaulter.

“In training, they harp so heavily on Greenline being a comfortable space for everyone,” Chanin said. “They firmly say that if there is any incidence of just sexual harassment, a step lower than sexual assault, they will be fired on the spot, no issue.”

MSU Greenline requires all employees to sign MSU’s Rules Governing Conduct of Employees, which lays out grounds for termination of university employees. It includes a description of what constitutes as workplace sexual harassment.

Violations of the conduct policies can result in “disciplinary actions,” according to the document.

MSU Greenline is also an at-will employer, meaning the institution can terminate any employee at any time for any reason inside legal boundaries.

“Her (Deneau’s) response to everything was ‘My hands are tied,’” Chanin said. Chanin’s supervisor confirmed this statement. Bricarell and Deneau also told Chanin “they did not need to know the details” of her situation, according to the OIE report.

“It was absolutely horrible, and I think the most angering thing for me is how Kathleen and Justin handled it,” Chanin said. “That actually speaks a lot to Greenline ... I think it’s really important for people to know what happens behind closed doors.”

MOVING FORWARD

Chanin wanted to start her senior year with everything behind her, so she didn’t continue to appeal the case. After it had consumed her junior year, Chanin didn’t want it to follow her into her MSU summer study abroad.

Chanin handled everything on her own, without telling even her parents.

“It was one thing after another and I barely had time to breathe,” Chanin said.

MSU senior Kaitlin Chanin. Chanin majors in comparative cultures and politics and minors in peace and justice studies, Jewish studies and dance. PHOTO BY ANNTANINNA BIONDO.

Today, Chanin is applying to graduate law programs. While she’s proud to be in MSU’s James Madison College, she’s not proud of being from the university itself.

“This has absolutely turned me off to wanting to go to a university like this for law school,” Chanin said.

After spending a large portion of her college career working for MSU Greenline, Chanin said she felt discouraged when it let her down.

“Greenline hits home for me ... I think when people think of sexual assault they think of some drunk, white frat boy or some asshole at a bar,” Chanin said. “No one thinks it’s going to hit close to home.”

Chanin also expressed her disappointment in Michigan State as an institution responsible for

“All I knew was that by addressing it with someone who was higher than me, they would do something about it.”

Kaitlin Chanin Comparative Cultures & Politics Senior the well-being of its students.

“The university, Kathleen and Justin, who are staff members of the university for Annual Giving, literally covered it up and also asked me to cover it up,” Chanin said. “I think this is something that’s necessary for people to know.

I’ve wanted to do something about it for the longest time because I feel so sick working for an institution that supports something like this.”

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SPORTS

Taro Hirose becoming key part of Michigan State hockey’s offense

BY PAOLO GIANNANDREA PGIANNANDREA@STATENEWS.COM

T

aro Hirose’s impact is felt every time he steps on the ice.

T he Calgar y, A lberta native has brought a spark to the Spartans’ offense during his three seasons on Michigan State’s ice hockey team.

The junior forward’s superb connection with his linemates was on full display in MSU’s Nov. 2 two-goal victory over Ferris State. Creating a play out of nothing, Hirose, Mitchell Lewandowski and Patrick Khodorenko recorded the first goal of the contest. Upon entering the zone, Lewandowski dropped the puck off to Khodorenko, who in turn did the same for Hirose, who then found Lewandowski again for the goal.

“That line – they create an awful lot … they’re able to create stuff out of nothing,” hockey coach Danton Cole said. “They just fill lanes and find things. We see that a lot.

It happens a lot in practice. They move the puck real well.”

Serving as a left winger — complementing center K ho doren ko a nd r ig ht w i nger Lewandowski on the Spartans’ most effective line — Hirose has made a name for himself as

a facilitator since his freshman season.

Hirose has been exceptional for the Spartans since arriving on campus in 2016, though you might not know it by the manner in which he carries himself. Described as “quiet, but a great leader” by Cole, his mild-mannered temperament is reflected most notably in his facilitating MSU’s main scorers with assists.

Hirose was given the Outstanding Rookie Award after a freshman season in which he recorded 24 points (6 goals, 18 assists), the second-highest on the team.

He was named to the All-Big Ten Second Team as a sophomore, along with winning the Ron Mason Team MVP award and being named MSU’s Outstanding Offensive Player, after leading the team with 42 points last season.

Hirose has picked up where he left off last year, posting a team-high 19 points — which ranks third nationally — and 13 assists on the season. His tally of six goals is good for second-highest on the roster.

As former forward Mason Appleton moved on to play for the AHL’s Manitoba Moose prior to his sophomore season, Hirose took on the role of go-to playmaker for the Spartans.

Then sophomore forward Taro Hirose (17) celebrates his goal during the game against Michigan on Feb. 10, 2018, at Little Caesars Arena. PHOTO BY MATT SCHMUCKER.

“I think coming into last season, we lost Appleton there, and he was the guy that we look to win us some games by himself sometimes when he had to,” Hirose said.

“That’s the role I want to step into and be ‘the guy’ for the team. I think that mindset allowed me to — along with my line-mates — push the team forward and help us do better.”

While his linemates may get more of the shine — as Khodorenko had a hat trick against Ferris State and leads the team in goals (9), and Lewandowski’s threat as a scorer often draws attention from opposing defensemen — Hirose’s quiet contributions do not go unnoticed by Cole or his teammates.

“He drives a lot for us offensively,” Cole said about Hirose. “Confidence-wise, I think guys like the way he plays. He blocks shots, and he

does good things defensively. He works hard and doesn’t run a lot of guys over, but he does things the right way. And when your better players do things right that just makes it a lot easier. He’s a heck of a hockey player and a really, really good young man.”

Cole also noted how Hirose’s impact stretches beyond the scoresheet, which is evidenced by him bettering his teammates not only in games but also by presenting a challenge in practices.

“Just being able to compete and practice and things like that will help our team get a lot better,” Hirose said. “Those other two guys on my line (Khodorenko and Lewandowski) are really good players, and it helps our teammates when you can see us making plays, and maybe gives them a new perspective on things they can add to their game.”

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