March 2, 2016

THE CORD THE TIE THAT BINDS WILFRID LAURIER UNIVERSITY SINCE 1926

VOLUME 56 ISSUE 24 • MARCH 2, 2016

ALIVE ANOTHER DAY

Women’s hockey upsets No. 2 Toronto Varsity Blues to move onto OUA semifinals Sports, page 16

WILL HUANG/PHOTO EDITOR

BLACK EXCELLENCE

Some have lived to tell the story. Some have been defeated by the fiery wrath of social expectations.

The books that changed our lives page 8

“What’s a WLUSU?”

Deconstructing the power of an acronym page 3

A tale of sobriety in university page 13

Not just a rookie page 15

Dialogue and celebration JOSHUA AWOLADE CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Black History Month means different things to all types of people.

This February, the Association of Black Students at Wilfrid Laurier University declared it an open conversation and celebration. In addition to creating posters promoting its culture show, ABS collaborated with the Waterloo campus Bookstore to design a display commemorating the month.

The display featured photos and paintings of famous black figures, as well as powerful iconography.

Thandiwe Gregg, the member liaison of the association, sees ABS as an accessible service to all students. “[It’s for] anyone that’s really open to learning about what people of the African diaspora may face; we come in all different shades and we’re open to anyone coming who wants to learn more,” Gregg explained.

As a unit of the Diversity and Equity Office, ABS receives funding from the university to run its

JOSHUA AWOLADE/CREATIVE DIRECTOR

events programming. In the past month, ABS held discussions and collaborated with other associations, including Laurier’s Association of Caribbean Students and the University of Waterloo’s African Students’ Association. Its events reveal an underlying motive to connect with individuals and organizations in the community.

This year’s culture show, held on

February 26 in the Turret Nightclub, embodied a progression from the previous year’s #BlackLivesMatter theme. The show stressed its goal of highlighting talent in the campus and the larger Canadian community, with the apt theme of “Black Excellence.” Building on the message of empowerment, there’s Arts & Life, page 9

2 •

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2016

VOCAL CORD

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PHOTO OF THE WEEK

Editor’s note:

What would be your dream food festival?

SHELBY BLACKLEY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

“It would probably be full of ice cream.”

–Fabio Gioffre, third-year business HEATHER DAVIDSON/CORD ALUM

Men’s basketball head coach Peter Campbell laughs with former players after his final game on home court.

“One involving burgers and fries.”

–Nicholas Garcia, fourthyear business & financial math

POSTGRADUATE PROGRAMS

Advanced Water Systems Operation and Management Co-op Aquaculture Co-op Conservation and Environmental Law Enforcement Environmental Visual Communication (at the Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto) GIS - Applications Specialist (also available online)

“Tacos.”

GIS - Cartographic Specialist

–Megan Bailey, fifth-year business

New! Health, Safety and Environmental Compliance

Get the Skills You Need for the Job You Want.

Sustainable Agriculture Co-op ADVANCED STANDING PROGRAMS You may also be eligible for Advanced Standing in these Diploma programs and can graduate in just 2 or 3 semesters: Ecosystem Management Technology – Advanced Standing

“Burgers. Just all the burgers.”

Environmental Technician – Advanced Standing

–Samantha Hutchinson, third-year English & film studies

Our Post-Graduate Programs Are: SHORT – usually offered over two or three semesters (six months to one year) BUILT on professional advice, developed and taught by experts in the field

For more information:

“Potatoes.”

–Chad Butt, third-year sociology & film studies Compiled by Maddy Cutts Photos by Jessica Dik NEXT ISSUE: MARCH 9, 2016

CORD STAFF EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Shelby Blackley sblackley@thecord.ca CREATIVE DIRECTOR Lena Yang lyang@thecord.ca CREATIVE DIRECTOR Joshua Awolade jawolade@thecord.ca MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Mynt Marsellus mmarsellus@thecord.ca NEWS EDITOR Kaitlyn Severin kseverin@thecord.ca

flemingcollege.ca/postgrad askus@flemingcollege.ca 1.866.353.6464 ext. 3301

NEWS EDITOR Erika Ymana eymana@thecord.ca

PHOTO EDITOR Will Huang whuang@thecord.ca

FEATURES EDITOR Bethany Bowles bbowles@thecord.ca

VIDEO EDITOR Brian Phillips bphillips@thecord.ca

ARTS & LIFE EDITOR Zach Guitor zguitor@thecord.ca

LEAD REPORTER Maddy Cutts mcutts@thecord.ca

OPINION EDITOR Mitchell Consky mconsky@thecord.ca

LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER Jessica Dik jdik@thecord.ca

SPORTS EDITOR Drew Yates dyates@thecord.ca

SENIOR COPY EDITOR Caitlyn Sageman csageman@thecord.ca

GRAPHICS EDITOR Fani Hsieh fhsieh@thecord.caW

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR Kira Gelbard kgelbard@thecord.ca

PHOTO EDITOR Andreas Patsiaouros apatsiaouros@thecord.ca

CONTRIBUTORS Arman Aryapour Lindsay Bindman Paige Bush Mira Busscher Hayley Colussi Jonathan Coward Alex Dulanovic Alexandra Juraschka Brigitte Kloss Heather McLeod Christian Paron Fatima Soomro Caroline Spicer Jessi Wood

TARGETED to the specific skills and knowledge that employers need DESIGNED to give you the best possible real-world, real-work experience CONNECTED – our programs put you in touch with key industry contacts EDITOR’S CHOICE: What’s communications?

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EDITOR’S CHOICE ONLINE: Cord Weekly Update by Brian Phillips

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES All advertising inquiries can be directed to Care Schummer at care.schummer@wlusp.com or 519-884-0710 ext. 3560.

COLOPHON The Cord is the official student newspaper of the Wilfrid Laurier University community.

Started in 1926 as the College Cord, The Cord is an editorially independent newspaper published by Wilfrid Laurier University Student Publications, Waterloo, a corporation without share capital. WLUSP is governed by its board of directors.

Opinions expressed within The Cord are those of the author and do not necessarily refl ect those of the editorial board, The Cord, WLUSP, WLU or CanWeb Printing Inc. All content appearing in The Cord bears the copyright expressly of their creator(s) and may not be used without written consent.

The Cord is created using Macintosh computers running OS X 10.10 using Adobe Creative Cloud. Canon cameras are used for principal photography.

The Cord has been a proud member of the Ontario Press Council since 2006. Any unsatisfied complaints can be sent to the council at info@ ontpress.com.

The Cord’s circulation for a normal Wednesday issue is 6,000 copies and enjoys a readership of over 10,000.

Cord subscription rates are $20.00 per term for addresses within Canada.

The Cord has been a proud member of the Canadian University Press (CUP) since 2004.

Hey everyone, we’re The Cord.

We’re a news organization that provides students, staff and faculty with information about what’s happening on and around the Wilfrid Laurier University Waterloo campus. We tell stories that otherwise may not be heard and publicize perspectives that need to be told.

But in order to do this, you need to talk to us.

There’s a stigma around us that we’re here to “expose” the administration, the Wilfrid Laurier University Students’ Union, the clubs and associations that inhabit this fine university. But why is that the case? Have we made someone look so bad they can’t face the community? Have we told a lie? Have we avoided something?

Our job is to provide volunteer experience in the field of journalism, to hold members of the Laurier community accountable and tell the truth about what’s going on.

So what the hell is the problem with talking? Are people afraid to be misquoted? Are people afraid to be in trouble? Are people worrisome that we’ll fuck up?

We want to have conversations.

We want to tell the truth. But avoiding us by putting policies in place, or sending us to different members of your group, or just saying “no comment” makes us think something sketchy is occurring and makes it harder for us to provide the greater Laurier community with information.

At the beginning of the year, I preached transparency, communication and accountability. I will not stop until the voices of the Laurier community are heard through the stories we tell to provide the truth. But if those voices are being silenced, then you’re not only letting down the people trying to tell the stories, but the very people you say you serve.

When Spotlight won best picture at the 88th Academy Awards, it put a big spotlight — full pun intended — on the importance of journalism in a free and democratic society.

Yeah, this is university and not the “real” world, but without us as your journalists, how would you know the very happenings of Laurier outside of your current knowledge?

Don’t shut us down. We’re not here to make you look bad, we’re here to tell the truth. We’re here to tell your stories. And most of all, we’re here to serve you.

But we can’t serve you if you’re not willing to help us.

PREAMBLE The Cord will keep faith with its readers by presenting news and expressions of opinions comprehensively, accurately and fairly. The Cord believes in a balanced and impartial presentation of all relevant facts in a news report, and of all substantial opinions in a matter of controversy.

The staff of The Cord shall uphold all commonly held ethical conventions of journalism. When an error of omission or of commission has occurred, that error shall be acknowledged promptly. When statements are made that are critical of an individual, or an organization, we shall give those affected the opportunity to reply at the earliest time possible. Ethical journalism requires impartiality, and consequently conflicts of interest and the appearance of conflicts of interest will be avoided by all staff.

The only limits of any newspaper are those of the world around it, and so The Cord will attempt to cover its world with a special focus on Wilfrid Laurier University, and the community of Kitchener-Waterloo, and with a special ear to the concerns of the students of Wilfrid Laurier University.

Ultimately, The Cord will be bound by neither philosophy nor geography in its mandate.

The Cord has an obligation to foster

freedom of the press and freedom of speech. This obligation is best fulfilled when debate and dissent are encouraged, both in the internal workings of the paper, and through The Cord’s contact with the student body.

The Cord will always attempt to do what is right, with fear of neither repercussions, nor retaliation. The purpose of the student press is to act as an agent of social awareness, and so shall conduct the affairs of our newspaper.

Quote of the week: “Yo, it’s like that dolphin that died.”

- Photo Editor Will Huang about his phone being passed around the office

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2016

News

• 3 NEWS EDITOR KAITLYN SEVERIN kseverin@thecord.ca

NEWS EDITOR ERIKA YMANA eymana@thecord.ca

STUDENTS’ UNION

The ultimate power of acronyms Students’ Union detaches from the ‘WLUSU’ acronym to send ‘accurate’ message to students “Students’ Union gives you an idea, at least somewhat, what we can do for you as a student.”

-Phil Champagne, executive director and COO

PAIGE BUSH/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

The shift away from the acronym was suggested four or five years ago by Kat Lourenco, director of marketing.

BETHANY BOWLES FEATURES EDITOR

Over the past few years, the Wilfrid Laurier University Students’ Union gradually began to distance the organization from the WLUSU acronym.

Although there was no official announcement of this detachment, the acronym was eventually removed as daily vernacular within the organization.

Wilfrid Laurier University is a school of acronyms, whether it stands for organizations, clubs or even its physical buildings, such as FNCC for the Fred Nichols Campus Centre or DAWB for the

Dr. Alvin Woods Building. Students and faculty are evidently using the short-form version for these titles.

Colin Aitchison, chair of the board and chief governance officer, said “WLUSU” is far too ambiguous for new students to understand. Is it a club? Is it an object?

“If you think about it, the average student who’s not involved in a lot of things on campus, mainly first-year students, when you come to campus you should know what your Students’ Union is doing and what your Students’ Union is,” Aitchison said.

Olivia Matthews, president and chief executive officer of the Students’ Union, jokingly echoed the

same opinion.

“What is a WLUSU?” “From my understanding, it’s to be more inclusive for all of our students,” Matthews continued when asked about the abandonment of the acronym.

Inclusivity is the main focus for this change, as with the Students’ Union, students are more aware of what the organization represents.

“When you hear Students’ Union, it’s very different from hearing WLUSU. People actually know what you’re representing; people actually know that you’re there for students. I think that’s the reason why they changed it — it’s more inclusive,” she said.

Phil Champagne, executive director and chief operating officer of the Students’ Union, said the person in charge of marketing for the Union four or five years ago, Kat Lourenco, advised the Union to abolish the use of acronyms.

“Students’ Union gives you an idea, at least somewhat, what we can do for you as a student,” Champagne explained.

“The idea was to make our company accessible to students.”

Champagne said the only way to “break a habit with people is to constantly remind them.”

“With our university partners and every time they say WLUSU, we’re like, ‘actually it’s the Students’ Union.’ We’re not trying to be jerks about it. We’re trying to get the message across,” he said.

Matthews said the Students’ Union internally made an “acronym ban.”

When vice-presidents and members of the Students’ Union staff are talking, they don’t use acronyms. She continued to

explain that WLUSU isn’t the only potentially problematic acronym within the university walls. There are several acronyms and short form titles that can be confusing to the average student.

“For every year we’ve done it, I think we’ve done better in terms of acronyms in general,” she said.

“When you come to Laurier the first time, you are thrown out so many acronyms. Think about the DEO, WLUSU, we are a representative of OUSA … those are all just shortened names or acronyms and students don’t know what they are.”

As for stigmas surrounding the Students’ Union, Matthews explained the organization is focusing on what they can do rather than what they are perceived to be.

“It doesn’t matter what the name is. We need to be focusing on what we’re doing great, not the perceived cliquey-ness.”

With WLUSU as the acronym etched in history, it can be hard to enforce change.

But the members of the Students’ Union are dedicated to fostering a culture where ‘Students’ Union’ is the main name for the organization.

“I’ve seen huge strides since my first year [as a student] with the idea of exclusivity within the Students’ Union. But for students who have no idea that WLUSU is the Students’ Union, [abandoning the acronym] aids to the idea of exclusivity or stigma,” Aitchison said.

FOOT PATROL

Checks made a necessity Background checks implemented for essential services KAITLYN SEVERIN NEWS EDITOR

Volunteers at Wilfrid Laurier University’s Foot Patrol service could look forward to potentially having their police checks covered by the Students’ Union Essential Services Fee by next year.

Last year, Foot Patrol started implementing police checks on their volunteers, paid for by the Wilfrid Laurier University Students’ Union. Foot Patrol continues to run their police checks this year, however the costs are not provided by the Students’ Union.

“This year we started doing police checks again but because of our budget we couldn’t pay, so I sent out letters to all of the volunteers so they could take it to their local police station and get the subsidized volunteer rate,” said Joanna Sadgrove, vice-president of finance and administration.

While around 80 or more of Foot Patrol’s volunteers now have to pay for their police checks, Foot Patrol felt it was necessary to continue in order to run the service.

The cost for police checks can vary. However, police departments offer lower rates if volunteers have proof of employment. “[Prices] depends on the police department that you go to in Waterloo, our North Division is

$10 for proof of being a volunteer so that’s why we wrote the letters,” said Sadgrove. “[Police checks were] a good change for the program, but I can understand the frustration students feel in paying to volunteer,” said Students’ Union president, Olivia Matthews.

“We recognized the $10 can be a meal for students so we want to make sure it’s as easy as possible, especially because those volunteers work so hard, we don’t want to put any extra stress on them.”

According to Sadgrove, Foot Patrol is hoping the essential services fee will pay for police checks next year.

The fee was voted in during the Students’ Union elections to support the growth and sustainability of essential services. The Students’ Union can keep a reserved fund to ensure the budget money for groups such as Foot Patrol are maintained each year and cannot be cut or removed.

“We don’t have a structure of how that money is going to be allocated within those essential services yet, but one of the things that we want to bring forward to the table about being included in that is paying for police checks for volunteers,” she said.

According to Kaipa Bharucha, vice-president of programming

“Police checks are only one avenue where you can ensure safety for students.”

-Olivia Matthews, Students’ Union president

and services, Foot Patrol does not have any regulations around who can volunteer other than their hiring process. The need for police checks came out of a concern for safety surrounding volunteers and students.

“I think it’s just like safety for our volunteers has always been a concern, just something we want to focus on, whether that’s for the volunteers who are participating and what they’re kind of doing or going through or for our students who are using our services,” she said.

According to Matthews, Foot Patrol, as well as Peer Connect and Emergency Response Team, now require their volunteers to receive police checks for the sake of risk management.

“When you’re in close quarters with the students, I think it should be necessary to have a police

JESSICA DIK/FILE PHOTO

Foot Patrol police checks were added last year for risk management.

check,” she said.

Matthews also noted how Foot Patrol’s training, hiring and regular monitoring is also part of the organization’s risk management.

“It’s important to note that not everything can be reflected in a police check especially for people our age, majority of it is expunged, like if you have something that would be on a police check and you just turned 18 for example, it’s probably not going to be there,” Matthews continued.

“Police checks are only one avenue where you can ensure safety for students.”

While there is no catalyst or specific reason for the introduction of police checks, Matthews stressed the need to be proactive rather than reactive.

“For us as a not-for-profit we have to focus on risk in every element, so I think it’s not so much as a catalyst it’s us being proactive instead of reactive,” she said.

Monday afternoon an email was sent out to Foot Patrol volunteers directing them to refer to Foot Patrol coordinator, Jasmeen Mangat, Kaipa Bharucha and Olivia Matthews instead of answering questions.

4 • NEWS

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2016

STUDENT AID

Acquiring a Laurier bursary Student Awards are currently processing bursaries for full-year students ERIKA YMANA NEWS EDITOR

According to Ruth MacNeil, associate registrar of Student Awards, 3,700 Wilfrid Laurier University undergraduates and graduates were qualified for bursary assistance last year, with an increase of students who have applied and are able to receive bursaries.

Students who are in school for eight months, and filled out the general tuition bursary application, can expect their application to be processed and assessed between February and March. Students in co-op have two opportunities, as they essentially return to school twice, to apply for bursary assistance.

Although the process is the same for all bursaries, the awards come from two pools of money.

One pool consists of donorsupported bursaries distributed on an annual basis from alumni or individuals who have donated to the school. The second pool is a tuition set aside fund, where the majority of funding is from bursary assistance.

The range of money awarded depends on the student’s financial need and can be between $250 to $700 or $1,000 of bursary assistance.

Usually students who are showing less financial need will be granted on their budget assessments. Other bursaries with specific criteria, such as programspecific grants, are evaluated more deeply.

“So with that regard, we drill a little deeper into our number of students who have applied to match those up and make sure that we are meeting the terms and conditions for bursary support, along with the financial need component,” said Ruth MacNeil, associate registrar of Student Awards.

“A lot of students don’t know that the Students’ Union has these investments that give back to students.”

-Dan Robert, associate director and development of athletics, student affairs and library

LENA YANG/CREATIVE DIRECTOR

“I think we have seen an increased number of students who are requiring bursary assistance.”

-Ruth MacNeil, associate registrar of Student Awards

The amount of money in the bursary fund every year is mandated by the provincial government and is usually 10 per cent of tuition allocated to the fund on an annual basis.

“I think we have seen an increased number of students who are requiring bursary assistance.

We recognize the financial stress students are faced with and our bursary fund, while it is limited, we try to help as many students as

we possibly can to get through to the end of the semester,” MacNeil explained.

The Wilfrid Laurier University Students’ Union was a donor, but they no longer contribute annually.

Over time, the Students’ Union made donations to the university and built up endowments, according to Dan Robert, associate director and development of athletics, student affairs and the Laurier Library. The value of these endowments is $2.276 million.

In this current cycle, there is $191,000 available to students. The Students’ Union has a number of financial aid opportunities that have been created and endowed over the years, meaning the university invests money on behalf of the donor and the interest earned is what is given out to students on an annual basis.

The Students’ Union was the do-

nor for the following six financial aid opportunities — Accessible Learning Accommodation Bursary, Jim Wilgar Bursary Fund for non-Ontario Residents, Jim Wilgar Bursary Fund for Ontario Residents, Laurier Brantford Toronto Award, Wilfrid Laurier University Students’ Union Brantford Award and Wilfrid Laurier University Students’ Union Award.

Similar to the general tuition bursary application, these same opportunities are made available through student awards.

Robert said the goal is to have 100 per cent of the financial aid given back to the students. However, there are some very specific qualifications for awards, such as the student must come from a specific high school, that are occasionally not applicable to any students.

“A lot of students don’t know that the Students’ Union has these investments that give back to students every year. These [awards] were built at a time when the Students’ Union was in a financial situation to be contributing.

As priorities change, now they’re spending money on different projects and student fees are being used differently but some of these were created back in the day. I was [in the] Students’ Union in 2005, and even before me, these were all created so they’ve been around for a while,” said Robert.

STATISTICS How many people were qualified for bursaries last year?

3,700 undergraduate and graduate students

How much money can a student receive?

Between $250 to upwards of $700–$1000

Value of Students’ Union endowment to bursary fund: $2.276 million

From the Students’ Union perspective, how much is currently available to students? $191,000

The Students’ Union was the donor for the following six financial aid opportunities: - Accessible Learning Accommodation Bursary - Jim Wilgar Bursary Fund for non-Ontario Residents - Jim Wilgar Bursary Fund for Ontario Residents - Laurier Brantford Toronto Award - Wilfrid Laurier University Students’ Union Brantford Award - Wilfrid Laurier University Students’ Union Award

ACCOMPLISHMENT

Student to perform with K-W Symphony Mason Pomeroy is the winner of the 2015 Ken Murray Concerto Competition Award of Distinction KAITLYN SEVERIN NEWS EDITOR

Wilfrid Laurier University student Mason Pomeroy will have the opportunity to perform Frank Martin’s Ballade for Flute and Orchestra with the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony.

Pomeroy, a fourth-year flutist, won the Ken Murray Concerto Competition Award of Distinction 2015, one of the university’s most prestigious awards given out to Laurier music students.

Students who want to apply for the competition must submit a written application and a recorded submission.

A committee then screens the applicants and decides who will go on to become a semifinalist, who then performs live in front of the committee.

Three finalists are left to compete in front of a public audience.

A committee made up of members from the K-W Symphony then decides who gets to perform with the orchestra.

The competition takes place annually with winners announced in

January. Pomeroy was announced as the winner of the competition in 2015.

While the faculty of music gives students the opportunity to receive scholarships, the Ken Murray competition is based exclusively on an individual’s performance abilities.

“The event this January that just went by a month and a half ago is for the person to perform with the orchestra next year, so it’s decided over a year in advance,” said Glen Carruthers, Laurier’s dean of music.

Pomeroy will be performing on March 10 at the Conrad Centre for the Performing Arts in KitchenerWaterloo. Daniel Bartholomew Poyser will be conducting the event.

Along with the performance, Pomeroy will receive a $5,000 scholarship.

“The cash reward is important, but in a way for a young music student even more important is the opportunity to play publically with a professional orchestra,” said Carruthers.

While Pomeroy now has the opportunity to perform with the

“It gives them an opportunity to perform in front and with the symphony before a pretty diverse audience.”

-Glen Carruthers, dean of music

orchestra, Carruthers stressed the importance of cooperation between the university and the KWS. According to Carruthers, while their relationship with the Symphony is good for orchestra, it’s also beneficial to young talent.

“It gives them an opportunity to perform in front and with the symphony before a pretty diverse audience, concerts in the building it’s very often students and we know who the audience is but the K-W Symphony audience is completely different so it’s good for students to have an exposure to that different audience as well.”

Pomeroy could not be reached for comment.

CONTRIBUTED IMAGE

Flutist Mason Pomeroy will perform with the K-W Symphony on March 10.

NEWS • 5

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2016 PROFILE

Chair named interim coordinator Donais appointed coordinator of association for peace and conflict studies

NEWS IN BRIEF Adventurer to give presentation at Laurier James Raffan, Canadian writer and cultural geographer, will give a presentation at Wilfrid Laurier U niversity on March 7 at 4 p.m. at the Paul Martin Centre about his recent Artic expedition. It will explore Canada’s north and focus on climate and environmental change. Raffan has produced over 16 books and has written for media outlets such as The Discovery Channel and The Globe and Mail.

ANDREAS PATSIAOUROS/PHOTO EDITOR

Timothy Donais, the chair of WLU’s global studies department, realized there needs to be an association to bring everyone together on a regular basis.

MADDY CUTTS LEAD REPORTER

Timothy Donais, the chair of Wilfrid Laurier University’s global studies department, has been appointed as interim coordinator of the newly formed Canadian Association for Peace and Conflict Studies. Donais has been serving in this position since last summer, when the association was officially formed, and has been working over the past year with its other members to further develop the Canadian Association for Peace and Conflict Studies.

“It’s essentially an academic association which is bringing together Canadian scholars and scholars working in Canada, primarily who are working in the areas of peace and conflict,” Donais explained.

“As well as we’re hoping to draw in people working, practitioners working, in the areas of conflict resolution and alternative dispute resolution.”

The idea for an association concerning peace and conflict studies was born at a gathering of academics in Ottawa a number of years ago, which was then further fleshed out at the first annual Peace and Conflict Studies Conference, held last summer in Winnipeg.

“We realized at that meeting that there was a growing number of programs and a growing number of scholars working on peace and conflict issues in the Canadian context, but there was no real single association which brought us all together on a regular basis to be able to compare our work, to be able to speak together, to be able to sort of create opportunities for us to work together,” said Donais.

Peace and conflict studies is a central theme within the department of global studies, of which Donais is both chair and professor.

Donais has also been involved in a decade-long research project funded by the Social Sciences and

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Humanities Research Council of Canada, it primarily looks at the role of local and international groups regarding peace implementation in post-war nations such as Afghanistan, Haiti and Bosnia.

“It’s, you know, looking at these questions of local ownership, which really is about the relationship between the international community and international actors, and both the citizens and the government and the civil societies of conflict affected states,” said Donais.

“It’s basically asking the question of who actually gets to decide on how peace is built and what the priorities of peace building should be.”

In its role as an entity for scholarly work, the association is hoping to partner with outside organizations in a bid to run conferences for individuals within the field The conferences will create an opportunity for students to become a part of the association and

“It’s basically asking the question of who actually gets to decide on how peace is built and what the priorities of peace building should be.”

-Timothy Donais, chair of WLU global studies department

immerse themselves into the field of peace and conflict studies.

“We’ll certainly be encouraging students to take part, because we want to grow the field of peace and conflict studies in Canada,” said Donais. “In the context of having a new government which claims that Canada is back on the international stage, there are a lot of important and interesting issues that Canadians can contribute to, both in our role in international peace and security and peace in a domestic context.”

$550,000 given to professor and researcher James McGeer, WLU biology professor, along with his research team, have been awarded $550,000 from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council Strategic Partnership Grants program.

It studies metal mining and its impact on Canada’s north.

Laurier to receive Microsoft OneDrive for Business Wilfrid Laurier University’s information and communication technologies has announced that Microsoft OneDrive for Business, part of the Microsoft Office 365 suite, will now be available to faculty and staff.

OneDrive will include viewing and editing privileges, one terabyte of storage and availability to files through any device.

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Meet with a Conestoga representative in the Science Building Atrium, March 9, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

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6 • GAMES

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2016 ACROSS 1- Chronicle 5- Fallen acorns 9- Bad air 13- Winter vacation spot 14- City on the Missouri 16- Half-moon shape 17- Kon-Tiki Museum city 18- Second generation Japanese 19- Figure out who they are (2 words) 20- Draft dodgers (2 words) 23- Do-si-do 24- Native Australian 25- There’s a price to pay if you break it 28- Numerical suffix 29- A plant used for medicine e.g.

32- Lift clear of the seabed 34- Daughter of Nehru (2 words) 36- Proceeds 39- Kind of test 40- Personal honorific 41- International competition 46- Relates (2 words) 47- Math font 48- Engine cooling component 51- Razorback 52- 70s & 80s custom handgun 54- Give attention 56- Safeguard (2 words) 60- Rely 62- Influence 63- Praise 64- Russian city in Siberia 65- Metric unit 66- Lest 67- Occupied 68- Switches, for short 69- Spring catalog order

DOWN 1- Surf 2- Usher again 3- Loosen 4- Wisdom e.g.

5- Well-to-do 6- Chieftain 7- Sauce 8- Sorority letter 9- Potter’s cement 10- Downpour danger 11- Whole 12- Rare find 15- Safety device 21- Virginia Tech’s garden 22- USS_____: she carried Roosevelt 26- Ottoman military official 27- Fan sound 30- A type of microprocessor, init.

31- Blows hot air 33- They might be loose 34- Schools of thought 35- Star Wars military vehicle 36- Ancient Roman’s nemesis 37- Medley 38- Monocle 42- Not smart, in French 43- Swarm member 44- Phone increments 45- Big sword in Super Mario RPG 48- Conclusion 49- Incriminate 50- Required 53- Small flame 55- They may be tall 57- Ballpoint pen stain, for instance 58- Childhood admonition 59- Chinese dynasty 60- Type of wedge club 61- Android app

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Dear Life, now that Peer Connect’s helpline is done and gone, I think I speak for all of when I say: just where the hell was their secret base this whole time? I think it’s finally time to lift the lid!

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EVEN EASIER; two above, two below. Just take an extra minute to shift the sudokus so they don’t land on the fold and everyone is happy, okay?

Sincerely, I only read the Cord for the sudokus Dear Life, If you are interested in giving someone a job, try RESPONDING TO YOUR GODDAMN EMAIL. Do I have to straight up stalk someone to get anything done??

Sincerely, I’m outside your office, with a resume apparently Dear Life, How do people celebrate St. Paddy’s in the real world? What do you mean I still have to go to work?

Sincerely, Not ready to adult Dear roommate, JOEY DOESN’T SHARE FOOD Sincerely, That was my pizza

Dear Canada, Why are you trying to hurt me?

Sincerely, Slipping and sliding on the icy sidewalks

Dear Incoming WLUSU Management Team, Glad to see the team is extremely diverse.

Sincerely, What shade of blonde do you all wear?

Dear Students’ Union Volunteers, You can’t be obsessed with the Students’ Union and then shit talk it when you don’t get chosen for a position.

Sincerely, Move on.

Dear Life, I can’t wait to leave this place. It’s so cliquey and full of people that think they’re better than everyone else.

Sincerely, You’re not in high school anymore

Dear Life, Why #WLUSUsoWhite?

Sincerely, Me

Dear Life, Don’t judge me for not going to the gym, I’m still waiting for people to finish up their New Years resolution goals.

Sincerely, I can wait

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8 •

Arts & Life

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2016 ARTS & LIFE EDITOR ZACH GUITOR zguitor@thecord.ca

LITERATURE

‘This book changed my life’ CONTRIBUTED IMAGES

Modern Romance

Never Let Me Go

The Alchemist

I Am The Messenger

The Book of Negroes

After the cessation of a tenuous long-term relationship, I began exercising the 30 and flirty rights of a newly single bachelor. I drank, I partied, I met new people. Eventually, I fell into a semi-exclusive relationship — we liked each other, but relationships were lame.

But upon the slightest hankering for single-dom, I broke things off to maintain my free-spirited composure. Then I read Modern Romance. For the most part it’s just goofy prose and interesting statistics, but many of Ansari’s short rants on expectations of love resonated deeply. He dispelled the “soulmate” myth, emphasized patience and argued that our relationship status should anchor solely on our desires, not whether it’s cool or not.

–Zach Guitor

This book didn’t come to me at a pivotal point in my life nor did it change my outlook, but it did articulate the futility of human struggle in a way that made me question my own integrity.

It’s weird I would love a book that reveals the shitty side of humanity, but the vital truth revealed through a work of pure fiction is why Never Let Me Go resonates so powerfully. It takes a certain degree of skill to inspire readers to evaluate their responsibility toward others and Never Let Me Go does so expertly by emphasizing the gravity of the unsaid.

The novel offers a humbling reminder that sometimes life at its worst moments is without bargain.

There is light and we are capable of change if we recognize the need.

–Lena Yang

I’ve met this book three times in my life.

At 14-years old, reading took a backseat to being a cool high school kid. Young Santiago and his journey to find treasure slapped me in the face and reminded me how much I loved staying up late with a book.

At 18-years old, I was lost in the mental storm brought to you by the first year of university. The idea of the “personal legend” sliced through my murky thoughts and re-energized my optimism.

At 21-years old, I was more patient with the feast of thoughts contained within the novel’s pages.

I’m still chewing on those today.

This is a book I gave my grandpa and one that I’ll read to my firstborn child.

–Alex Dulanovic

A middle of the road average Joe who works for a cab company, leads a normal, uninteresting life, plays poker with his friends and is hopelessly in love with his best friend — who doesn’t reciprocate.

Then, one day, he starts getting ace playing cards in the mail and it changes his life. One of the biggest themes is creating good karma for yourself by doing good deeds selflessly without reward. Ultimately, by completing the objectives on the aces, the main character turned his life around.

Reading this inspired me to be kind to people and that even the smallest act goes a long way. It also convinced me that karma is real, and good things do happen as long as you continue to create good karma for yourself.

–Drew Yates

Reading this at the young age of 12-years old really opened up a new perspective for me — filling me with hope.

In particular, I liked the fact that even though over 500 pages can be intimidating, it is still an easy read.

There is a lot of room for growth as a reader and it is a great book to start with if you want to start to read more and really feel you can accomplish something.

What made the book incredible for me was the plotline. The courageous attitude of the protagonist helped formulate an empathic attitude to how severe the conditions were for black slaves during the 19th century.

Despite all of her hardships, she was still able to stay strong and survive.

–Kira Gelbard

Aziz Ansari

Kazuo Ishiguro

Paulo Coelho

Markus Zusak

Lawrence Hill

FROM COVER

Black History Month at Laurier ends in triumph Association of Black Students hosted ‘Black Excellence’ culture show to highlight exceptional contributions –cover a reflective emphasis on recognition and remembrance.

“We just really want to recognize our students, what we’re doing on campus and people in the community because some of these people — black people and people of colour — are doing some great things in the community,” said Gregg.

For all the work put into the show, a serene ambiance greeted Laurier students, alumni and guests. Beside the audience were booths showcasing art by Laurier

“These people — black people and people of colour — are doing some great things in the community.”

-Thandiwe Gregg, member liaison at Laurier Association of Black Students

students expressing their AfroCanadian experience. The show kicked off nicely and performers expressed their artistry through dance, spoken word, rap and song.

Technical issues sprang up later into the night, but the dancers remained energetic and their spirit infectious.

The energy carried into the fashion show, a vibrant and diverse display of colour, texture and pride.

Models with attitude presented their cultural dress and original designs while the audience voiced their appreciation. Taking some time from the musical and visual spectacle, the show awarded select guests for excellence in arts, academics, sports and leadership.

“This could just be something to propel someone to move forward, and reassure themselves: ‘Yes, I’m doing something good. I’m doing something excellent and no one’s going to bring me down,’ ” said Gregg.

ABS delivered on its promise and demonstrated an ability to

“This could just be something to propel someone to move forward and reassure themselves.”

-Thandiwe Gregg, member liaison at Laurier Association of Black Students

tackle both critical issues and celebrate accomplishments in the community. As a spoken word artist in the show put it: “It is showing that we are a part of history.”

Black History Month may be over, but ABS doesn’t show any signs of slowing down. The key to this is meeting at the start of each year to discuss its goals.

“It’s always to represent our values: solidarity, empowerment and progress. In any way that we can embody those terms, I think we just shoot and go off with it,” said Gregg.

CONTRIBUTED IMAGE

Students celebrate Black Excellence culture show at the Turret on Feb. 26.

ARTS & LIFE • 9

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2016 FOOD FESTIVAL

WILL HUANG/PHOTO EDITOR

Even between the beer, the arts and crafts and the museum exhibits, those in attendance at THEMUSEUM’s Mac N’ Cheese-ival could not escape the blandness of the four dishes offered.

Mac N’ Cheese-ival missed the mac FANI HSIEH GRAPHICS EDITOR

I want to preface my experience before I offend someone. I love macaroni and cheese. I even attended the Mac & Cheese Festival of Toronto in summer 2015.

According to Wikipedia, us Canadians consume 55 per cent more macaroni and cheese than our Southern neighbours — it’s basically our national dish.

But on the cold and breezy night of February 26, THEMUSEUM and B@THEMUSEUM in downtown Kitchener hosted the Mac N’ Cheese-ival, a lackluster and disappointing homage to the beloved comfort food.

The tickets quickly sold out and the Facebook event page flooded

with a secondary market for tickets. Each ticket granted unlimited access to the four renditions of macaroni and cheese and a drink ticket for craft beer, pop or water.

The ground floor featured the “Loaded Cheese” mac n’ cheese, which replaced the “Jerk Chicken” because they were unable to scale the Jerk Chicken up for mass production and still maintain its quality.

Unlike what the name “Loaded

Unlike what the name “loaded Cheese” suggests, it was seriously lacking in cheese.

Cheese” suggests, it was seriously lacking in cheese. Thankfully, the band Running Red Lights from Toronto were there to keep things upbeat and spirited.

On the second floor was the “Caprese” mac n’ cheese, which also seriously lacked flavour and cheese, as well as beer from Four Fathers Brewing Company, a local brewery from Elora.

On one side of the floor, you could make some macaroni art and the other side consisted of games and activities normally found in THEMUSEUM. The third floor featured the “Butter Chicken” and “Italian Sicilian Sausage” mac n’ cheese, the only two that were marginally acceptable.

The “Butter Chicken” had bits of chicken and was topped with a cool yogurt, while the “Italian Sicilian Sausage” actually had some red bell peppers and, of course, Italian sausage.

Despite more substance, both

still tasted quite bland. To distract from the disappointment, visitors could interact with the ice age exhibit and learn about the lovely woolly mammoth.

I had the chance to taste WitDisturber, the beer made exclusively for THEMUSEUM by the Four Fathers Brewing Company, but sadly I couldn’t finish it. I’m more of a cocktail and shots kind of person so I cannot do the beer any further justice.

All the dishes were provided

by their partner restaurant, B. In their previous and more successful events, like Tacofest, various participating restaurants competed to offer participants an array of delicious tacos.

A main concern prevalent in the reviews on their Facebook event page was the recycling and disposal of the plastic cups and spoons used to serve the all-youcan-eat macaroni and cheese.

THEMUSEUM purchased plastic spoons and containers made from recycled materials. The plastic cups for beverages and singleserving containers were recyclable but the plastic spoons were not, according to the Region of Waterloo’s online recycling resource Waste Whiz.

All in all, the Mac N’ Cheeseival was a great idea, but poorly executed. The lines were long and the tables were put at inconvenient places. The food was flavourless, but the music and activities were great.

library. “I’d come with my family when I was little, then I didn’t come for a while.”

Taylor re-incorporated the library into her routine as part of an attempt to break her habit of spending too much money on books at Chapters. She encourages others to do the same.

“I think if people knew what they were missing, it would be a lot more full.”

Libraries have always been

viewed as buildings containing a wealth of information and knowledge, but increasingly, their purpose is expanding and fostering a sense of community.

On the front window on the Central Library, “Welcome to Canada” is sprawled across the windows in bright red and white lettering, with the message echoed underneath in Arabic to reinforce that a library can be an essential part of “home.”

To distract from the disappointment, visitors could interact with the ice age exhibit ...

PUBLIC SERVICES

Do libraries still matter?

Technology challenges the relevance of public services JONATHAN COWARD STAFF WRITER

“We don’t come here very often,” said John, holding a shed restoration manual among other how-to guides.

“I only come here for the resources. My wife buys most of her books online.”

John isn’t alone. Libraries have become nearly anachronistic in the age of mass consumption. Why go the library to borrow the newest film by your favourite director when it’s probably already on Netflix? Or why go borrow the newest album from your favourite artist when it’s a Tidal exclusive?

In the digital age, where everyone has access to everything, how can an institution centered on physical media maintain relevance?

The City of Waterloo is betting that libraries haven’t exhausted their relevance and can still provide value to the community.

In their recently released budget for 2016-18, the city will allocate an additional $326,711 in funding to the public library system in order to maintain services levels.

But the question remains: what services does the library provide that can’t be found elsewhere?

Many students view libraries predominantly as a workspace.

The shelves in the library on Wilfrid Laurier University’s campus are lined with dusty hardcovers filled with dense academic jargon; picked up once every few years by overachieving students. The atmosphere gradually intensifies from main floor conversations to the “silent seven” where the air is so tense a single word spoken might spark an explosion.

Just down the road on Albert Street, the central branch of the Waterloo Public Library reverses this dynamic.

Books, both fiction and nonfiction along with magazines and DVDs create a bright, vibrant setting where the atmosphere is calm, yet never stress-filled.

Yet, the resources are only a small portion of what the library provides to its visitors, said Laurie Prentice, an employee at the information desk.

“We’re definitely a community hub. We have programs for seniors and youth and the library is

“We’re definitely a community hub. We have programs for seniors and youth and the library is always busy.”

-Laurie Prentice, information services assistant at the Waterloo Public Library

always busy, especially the Harper branch.”

The library also continues to counter the perception of being outdated and lack purpose.

“We’re constantly evolving,” added Prentice. “We’ve added computers and new programs and services.”

After our conversation, I looked over to see her assisting an elderly woman with her computer issues.

The most frequent recreational users of the library services are normally either adolescents or the elderly.

Many students and young adults are seemingly disengaged.

“I think it’s losing relevance, sadly,” said Taylor, a visitor at the

FANI HSIEH/GRAPHICS EDITOR

10 • ARTS & LIFE

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2016

FOOD

The new burger in town CaliBurger opens first Canadian location close to Laurier ALEX DULANOVIC STAFF WRITER

PAIGE BUSH/STAFF PHOTOGAPHER

CaliBurger’s tech-savvy design will give burger spots a run for their money.

A nice burger when you’re a little hungover or haven’t gotten enough sleep is the perfect meal to usher you into your midday nap. At least, that was my plan as I walked over to University Commons Plaza, right across from Wilfrid Laurier University.

Ironically, the first ever CaliBurger in Canada has taken the place of what was formerly “Runner’s Choice,” a symbolic reminder I’d spent more time on the north side of University and King eating rather than in the gym running.

Snapping me out of my contemplation, I was welcomed by a manager who immediately started telling me about the CaliBurger franchise.

Aware of the demographic around University and King, Caliburger’s marketers reached out to The Advertising Project, Lazaridis Students’ Society’s student-run advertising club, to assist in developing promotional material for their opening. The club had experience dealing with small business and non-profits, but they were excited to work with a larger franchise.

I sat down with Ryan Price, vice-president of accounts at The Advertisement Project and the main contact with the marketing group for CaliBurger.

“They thought, which I agree with, that the best way to reach students is through other students,” said Price.

A logical move that made me wonder why other restaurants hadn’t done the same thing.

“To be honest, I think companies either don’t believe in the capabilities of students or that something like The Advertisement Project even exists. I think a lot of companies forget that they’re around two universities that have thousands and thousands of students,” said Price.

The partnership is intended to be beneficial for both sides. CaliBurger will get The Advertisement Project’s expertise free of charge, while members of the club receive valuable experience and the opportunity to help the community.

“We don’t do it to make money,” said Price. “We do it for experience like this. So students can put it on their resumes to help them get to where they want to be.”

While in CaliBurger, I took a look at what they could offer the Laurier demographic. What stuck out was their emphasis on technology.

By downloading the CaliBurger smartphone application, you’re able to play games and compete with other customers on a massive television screen.

As I went to place my order, the price was displayed on an iPad. A couple people were using portable chargers given out at the front desk. This is all part of a strategy to brand the store as being “with the times.”

Yet, the University Commons location does a good job of balancing out all the electronics. A spa-

cious layout invites eaters to dine in and the light-brown wood table offsets all the electronic screens.

In terms of the food itself, CaliBurger knows that it’s a fast food burger spot and doesn’t pretend not to be. They don’t offer insane twists nor do they provide many healthy alternatives. The menu is straightforward, with four highlighted combos. I rolled with the first one — the CaliDouble.

My CaliDouble featured two juicy patties resting on a satisfying amount of fresh lettuce and tomatoes. Yet, it’s the nuances that made it above average. The “Cali Sauce” was tasty and didn’t overwhelm the meat, my personal favorite touch was an onion cushioned between the patties, ensuring I got all the flavors with every bite. Extra points for a burger that ensures the last bite has everything you tasted in your first bite.

CaliBurger serves long and skinny fries that aren’t spectacular.

In order to add some flare, they offer them in “Cali Style,” which includes a couple slices of cheese and grilled onions on top. The main attraction is definitely the burger, albeit, at the price of around $14 for a combo.

Overall, the whole dine-in experience was satisfying. Fueled by the anticipation of their opening, the managers and employees were talking to everybody at the event trying to get feedback. They seemed to understand that in the food business, first impressions are everything.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2015

• 11

Editorial

OPINION EDITOR MITCHELL CONSKY mconsky@thecord.ca

Reading literature is more important than textbooks “What are words? Telepathy,” said Stephen King in the introduction to his memoir On Writing — a book where he discusses the limitless impact of reading and writing, of expressing ourselves with our most primary function of communication.

But why is it important for students to find the time to read words that take you further than tedious textbooks and lecture slides? Why must we utilize humanity’s “telepathy” to the fullest?

With the pressing workloads that come with university, not all students are given the luxury to sit back and delve into the pages of a good book.

Beyond the launching pad of being rocketed to new worlds, of escaping our current reality to see life in a different light, reading allows us to empathize with other cultures, people and situations — amplified through fictional and non-fictional forms of storytelling. Reading opens our eyes to different realities, adjusts our sight to new paradigms and creates windows into the distant lives of internal expression.

Empathy is the fuel for compassion — humanity’s most crucial trait. Without it we are lost within the egotistic foundation of our animalistic selves. When we read, empathy expands, our compassion grows stronger and our lives are enriched with fresh ideals that allow society to continuously evolve. With the undying demand for communication, stories are the basis of our evolution.

With an unlimited variety of genres out there, we can safely say there is a book for everyone.

It’s only a matter of finding what’s there for you.

Many students much prefer using any spare time for surrendering to their Netflix account or watching a movie online instead of cracking open a new novel.

In a world where so much is automatic, where nearly everything

can be done in a couple of clicks, it makes sense that many people seem to prefer the cinematic visual experience.

When you watch a movie, everything is imagined for you.

Every frame has been meticulously developed and rendered to make you perceive the continuous dream through an extremely specified and suggestive experience.

Sure, viewers can still interpret movies through different ideas and comprehensions, and greater contemplations can spiral through your head long after the post credits, but the initial worlds you see have been built by other minds.

Everything on the screen has been materialized for you.

When reading, we become the architects of our own imagination.

Cities are constructed, worlds are created, characters are visualized, emotions are stirred and inspiration is sparked — all through nothing but the carefully formulated guidance of black and white lines on a page.

Some literature can pull readers into stories so intensely, it can alter the way we look at life. The compelling power of stories is something that outlives each and every one of us.

Thoughts, memories and ideas are immortalized through the everlasting exchange of narrative, the artistic weaving of literary expression.

The stories we love inspire stories of our own — a cycle that begins with carefully-constructed sentences and the representation of a writer’s most complex thoughts.

Books are more than those ancient dust-collectors rotting away on the shelves of that study area you call the “library.” They are our favourite adventure, our worst nightmare, our fantasized romance, our most mind-boggling mystery and our life-changing experience. They anchor our souls yet let us sail away.

JOSHUA AWOLADE/CREATIVE DIRECTOR

What’s communications?

KAITLYN SEVERIN NEWS EDITOR

These unsigned editorials are based off informal discussions and then agreed upon by the majority of The Cord’s editorial board, including the Editor-inChief and Opinion Editor. The arguments made may reference any facts that have been made available through interviews, documents or other sources.

The views presented do not necessarily reflect those of The Cord’s volunteers, staff or WLUSP.

THE CORD IS PUBLISHED BY WILFRID LAURIER UNIVERSITY STUDENT PUBLICATIONS 205 REGINA ST. N., WATERLOO

WLUSP ADMINISTRATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIR Bryan Stephens VICE-CHAIR Abdiasis Issa DIRECTOR Rafey Sattar DIRECTOR John Pehar

DIRECTOR Tom Lillo

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PRESIDENT Bryan Stephens president@wlusp. com FINANCE MANAGER Randy Moore randy@rcmbrooks. com ADVERTISING MANAGER Caroline Schummer care.schummer@ wlusp.com

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Lakyn Barton lakyn.barton@ wlusp.com HR MANAGER/ CORPORATE SECRETARY Emily Crump hr@wlusp.com

It’s the question that frightens me at every family event, social gathering and in almost any university setting: “What is communication studies?”

Whenever this daunting question is asked, I have to scramble my brain to try and remember what I learn in every single communication studies class. Usually, I’ll blurt out an answer like “it’s business without the math,” or “it’s the study of advertisements and media in modern society” and even, “it’s the business side of media,” with the responses usually being “oh,” “what can you do with that degree?” and “how is that a real program?”

When I first came to Wilfrid Laurier University, I thought I was the only communications student who didn’t have a clue as to what their program was, until someone asked a fellow communications student and we both stared at each other in utter confusion. At that point in time I came to the realization that there really is no clear way of defining communication studies.

But why is that?

According to Laurier’s official website, communication studies “examines the forms and practices of communication through three areas of emphasis: communication history and theory, visual communication, global communication and media.” The department of communication studies also offers

“a comprehensive approach to the study of communication in society,” while providing students with the critical skills to understand the role of communication and media in society.

While this definition covers the general understanding of what the program entails for enrolled students, it’s not a clear description of what communication studies is. What do we study? How can we apply these skills to our lives and to the lives of others? Why do we have to learn about communication in society anyways?

While I’ve heard these questions from non-communication students, I’ll admit to asking them myself.

As most of us know, communication studies is a very broad program and can offer a huge variety of careers. Strong communication is essential in every business and industry.

Companies and organizations need a prominent individual, such as a communication studies student, to interact with clients and representatives. Communication graduates can find jobs in marketing, journalism and public relations, among many others.

While some may dig deeper into their pockets to earn a post-grad, it’s relieving to know you can dip your feet in a number of specialties and interests.

What do we actually learn about in communication classes? This may be my own personal belief, but as communication students we learn about old, modern and new society. We are educated on how society works, how we can use language to benefit our culture and how we can engage with other human beings, whether it be

physical or digital. Our countless assignments, essays and presentations also help us gain impeccable research skills and give us the opportunity to put our own opinions and theories into our work.

So are communication students successful? Sure, but it obviously varies for each individual. If you’ve graduated with a communication studies degree and now lounge around all day watching Netflix while cursing Justin Trudeau for a shitty economy, then you may not be too successful.

If you graduate and actually use your newfound skills to search for your dream job, then you may have a better chance.

Did you know Stephen Colbert (yes, that Stephen Colbert) studied communication at Northwestern University School of Communication? Remember, it’s not the degree that makes you successful, it’s how you use it to your advantage.

I’ve talked about what communication studies is, how it benefits students and what we as undergrads can accomplish.

But as a third-year communication studies undergrad, I believe we as a society are still confused about its purpose. We need a better definition of what communication studies is and how we as undergraduates or graduates can better our society, whether it be through our competent research or writing skills, or our knowledge of Marshall McLuhan and his famous phrase (let’s all say it together): “The medium is the message.”

So when a family member asks you what communication studies is, take a chance to think back even a year ago and remember all you have accomplished in the program.

12 •

Opinion

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2016 OPINION EDITOR MITCHELL CONSKY mconsky@thecord.ca

FANI HSIEH/GRAPHICS EDITOR

There’s a troll in the dungeon BETHANY BOWLES FEATURES EDITOR

Almost two weeks ago, Scaachi Koul, a BuzzFeed Canada senior writer, was harassed on Twitter for making a pitch for non-white, nonmale writers.

Many people had issues with these tweets, considering them to be misandry, or “racist against white people.”

When her boss, Craig Silverman, came to her defence, Koul was harassed even more, with tweets and messages saying she deserves to be “raped by Silverman.” Koul then deleted her Twitter account.

When I read about this, I was outraged by the response to Koul’s tweets.

Having met Koul at a conference this January, I read the tweets lightheartedly; Koul is an advocate for women of colour working in the journalism industry, so I

understood her intent. Like most industries, white men dominate Canadian journalism, so her call for more diversity within BuzzFeed Canada writers, to me, was justified.

At the same time, I see how people who don’t know her could have seen her tweets as unprofessional.

She later explicitly stated BuzzFeed had no interest in employing white men, which of course, pissed off a lot of white men.

Afterward, I presented this issue on my personal Facebook, posting the article with the corresponding caption, “Scaachi is my home girl.”

I did not write a lengthy post explaining my opinion. I just simply stated, in five words, that I agreed with her.

After posting this, a fellow journalist and good friend of mine commented on my post explaining eloquently how he disagreed with me.

He found Koul’s tweets to be unprofessional and discriminatory.

Because I respect this person, we engaged in a civil discussion about the topic.

I stated that I didn’t believe racism against white people exists because white people are the primary beneficiaries of racism. I believe racism can only be perpetuated against minorities. He respectfully disagreed, claiming oppression is still oppression regardless of who it is directed towards.

During this conversation on Facebook, we did not make personal digs at each other; we were just two civil adults engaging in a discussion about racism on the Internet, which for once didn’t end in cyber harassment.

I was quite proud of my friend and myself for our maturity and overall intellect.

The next morning, however, my mood changed.

A random person I don’t know posted on my friend’s wall.

Apparently he had seen our discussion and thought I was in the wrong, but could not comment on the discussion because he didn’t have me as a Facebook friend.

Another stranger also commented on that post saying that I was “ignorant” — he even used my first

and last name in the comment.

I couldn’t hold in my anger. Two men I didn’t even know were calling me ignorant on the Internet.

I commented back, saying that my opinion was valid, and suddenly I was in the trenches of a head-to-head Facebook combat with a pissed off white man, just like Scaachi Koul.

My original argument and my initial civil disagreement with my friend became null.

I thought I made a point — that two people can disagree about social issues online without throwing knives — but it turned out to be in vain.

This man was determined to prove me wrong. He wanted to make a fool out of me on Facebook for everyone to see.

He told me I was, “throwing up the old, tired sexist-based argument in an apparent attempt to derail any sort of dialogue.”

You can think whatever you want in regards to my thoughts on racism. That’s okay.

All I’m asking for is to open up a dialogue.

If you disagree with social issues someone has presented on social media, present evidence, argue eloquently and above all, don’t make it personal.

The majority of these Internet trolls seem to have next to no knowledge on the subjects they’re arguing; it’s like they enjoy the battle more than the outcome.

Social media should be used to exchange ideas, not to bully.

These Internet trolls who made Scaachi Koul delete her Twitter account due to fear of harassment clearly do not understand these conversations or the intent behind such comments.

Just because someone says something online that you disagree with does not give you the right to publically humiliate them, harass them, or even worse, threaten their lives.

The things you type on social media are alive forever the second you click “send.” This isn’t a discussion about race, gender, social class or sexuality. This is a discussion about being a decent human being both in person and online.

An escape from Facebook LINDSAY BINDMAN OPINION COLUMNIST

Millennials were among the first group of people to adopt Facebook as a part of our daily lives. For the past 10 years, the site has grown into what it is today. Almost every single person I know has an account. In fact, I know only three people in my life that aren’t on Facebook.

This past week I joined these three — at least temporarily — as I deactivated my own account. As an extremely extroverted person being without Facebook for a period of time, I want to share the way my life has changed.

The first day after deleting my Facebook account, I received about 12 text messages from friends and family asking if I was okay. While I appreciated people’s concern, I found this link between deleting Facebook and being mentally unhealthy to be very

interesting.

In reality I was just fine. I wasn’t being cyber-bullied and nothing significant happened in my life to motivate the decision. I just felt like taking a break from the online community.

For years, we share with Facebook our personal thoughts and feelings, relationship status and even our meals. We check in at various locations, discuss our political views, favourite quotes and other personal information. Facebook is the diary of the 21st century.

We cultivate quite an intimate relationship with Facebook.

The word intimate is what I’ve found to be the key here. When we communicate with various people on Facebook, we create a sort of pseudo-intimacy. I might meet someone in class, become Facebook friends, then they “like” a photo I’m tagged in and now we have a perceived relationship that isn’t really predicated on anything beyond virtual interaction.

In a world of likes, shares and retweets, it becomes difficult to draw the line between real and pseudo-friendships.

Sometimes when I have an

JESSICA WOOD/GRAPHIC ARTIST

entertaining experience or funny anecdote, I make a Facebook post.

This can be an easy way to share something with my friends collectively and ensure that anyone that would want to see the update can. In my recent week without Facebook, I found myself reflecting on who in my life specifically I would like to share a certain story with. I ended up having a one-onone conversation or talking with a small group of friends — often in person — to share those same stories I would once broadcast to the online world. The process felt much more personal this way and I felt closer to my various friends over the week.

In making plans with larger groups of people on the weekends for example, I discovered certain people whose phone numbers I didn’t actually have, as I would usually only communicate with them via Facebook. This caused me to reflect on the degree of closeness of such relationships.

While explaining to my mum my decision to delete Facebook for now, she asked how she could tell from her own account that mine was no longer active. As I tried to articulate my response, I caught myself pointing at the screen and saying, “It’s like I don’t exist.”

I stopped immediately, surprised at how profound of a

sentence that had been. While in a large capacity, I don’t exist online right now. I’ve existed more directly and lived more in the moment than I do when using Facebook as a primary means of communication. The irony is the contrast between living life for yourself and living it for the uploaded screens of your “friends” and followers.

This isn’t a plea to encourage you to delete your own accounts, but it can be an excellent tool. Just think critically about the ways in which you engage with it; how frequently and for what purpose. As for reactivating my own account, I’m sure I will.

But I’m not in any rush.

OPINION • 13

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2016

Drunk on sobriety A horror story about entering a club completely sober

MITCHELL CONSKY OPINION EDITOR

Children of Wilfrid Laurier University: grab your blankets and hug your teddy bears. I’m about to tell you a horror story — one that will make you shiver and shudder and cause your little heads to shake with disbelief. One that will quake your reality and suck your imagination into unknown realms.

You’ll think it’s a myth, an unruly fairy tale, a lie that defies all logic within the mystical boundaries of social dimensions.

Once upon a time, I went to a club sober.

Throw the confetti! Bake me a cake! Light the fuckin’ fireworks!

Legend has it, such a daring, bold and unthinkable act has been attempted by few brave knights before. Some have lived to tell the story. Some have been defeated by the fiery wrath of social expectations — the dragon deemed impossible to be slain.

Why would anyone enter the dungeon without a sword? To learn to battle the enforcing monster with nothing but their own two hands — and a pair of eyes that see a little more straightly.

Many students feel powerless in social situations without their ‘empowering’ liquid courage to save them from their sober selves.

Imagine the tedious shame of soberly talking to strangers. Imagine the insecurity of dancing in public without dignity-maintaining elixir flowing through your veins. Such risks are a danger to the reputa-

tions we work tirelessly to protect.

But as the great Simba of Pride Rock once said, “I laugh in the face of danger.”

Alongside my group of friends who are stumbling over their own feet, reeking of beer and rum, I walk into the the club with nothing but half a bottle of Gatorade bouncing in my stomach.

As usual, lights flash, music thumps, glasses clatter and chatter buzzes. But it’s all received more clearly than ever before, like a once-distorted television reception finally blasted to high definition.

I’m alienated while registering the crystal-clear familiar.

Abandoning my typical routine of heading straight to the bar, I instead move towards the dance floor.

The vibrating speakers get my foot tapping. Excitement stirs inside me. Fuck the dragon of social expectations. I can do this.

But wait: thoughts invade my mind. I can’t dance now. People will judge me.

They’ll know that I’m sober with my obvious coordination. They’ll question my sanity.

It’s better to play it safe, to keep my secret hidden.

My buddies are pounding tequila shots at the bar. The liquor calls to me like the One Ring to rule them all, but as I stand soberly within the Cracks of Doom, I know the temptation must be destroyed.

So I surrender to the music, ignore the thoughts and do what I’d do if drunk. With my hooligan friends jumping into the action, I dance like the idiot I am.

Afterwards, I also talk to people.

Somehow they respond. Apparently, being drunk is not the only bypass to talk to strangers. Also, believe it or not, no megaphones

Some have lived to tell the story. Some have been defeated by the fiery wrath of social expectations ...

or translators are required.

A few more realizations pop into my abstemious mind.

People care far more about how they themselves are perceived than how they perceive me. Nobody gives a shit that I’m sober. Well, they do when they more deeply consider the idea of themselves being judged through clearer eyes.

But that’s far from a secret that needs hiding.

Alcohol is part of our lives; it’s a prominent force within university culture. We may still raise our red solo cups — I refuse to believe that getting shitfaced is a sin — but we must also realize that having fun and intoxication doesn’t always need to be two sides of the same coin.

Some people often neglect going out because of the toll alcohol takes on their bodies. The thought of partying makes their stomach churn; anticipating the burn and fearing the expected damage keeps them locked behind their bedroom doors.

But, as I’ve learned on my brave and adventurous quest of sobriety, you don’t need to be drunk to do what you’d do when drunk. In fact, I’m a much better dancer without it — at least when I’m not kissing the sticky floor of Phil’s trying to do

JESSICA DIK/LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER

Some students believe that alcohol is the only key to social situations.

a handstand.

As the cliché often dictates, university is a place to learn in and out of the classroom. We want to explore socially, yet we find ourselves bound to the social lifeline known as liquid courage. For some cases it’s so extreme that students refuse to be in any social situation without a beer safely in hand. Is this really coming out of our shell?

Or is it just using a magic potion to unlock the imagined chains holding us back?

Drinking is an escape that can build memories, forge relationships and alter your decisions for great stories.

It can also transform those that are timid and shy into all the brash confidence of Donald Trump — which, to clarify, is not to say that you could afford the entire bar a round (which many may believe once sucked into this cocky, financially-detrimental state), but a direct way of saying decent human

beings can suddenly metamorphose into loud-mouthed, red-faced assholes that want to pick a fight with everyone who stands in their way.

Confidence can be beneficial, but too much of it can make some enemies.

Altering your neurotransmitters every time you want to break the ice isn’t a sustainable way to socially explore.

Why? Because the following morning you’ll always find yourself right back where you started: lying in bed with a throbbing hangover and a half-eaten box of Pizza Maniac collecting flies on your beer-stained floor.

Few students are prepared to test their sober boundaries, and if they do, it’s as unbelievable as a fairy tale and as shocking as a horror story.

But in order to slay the dragon, we must not be afraid of the flames.

Stepping into the unknown SHELBY BLACKLEY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Last month, I made the decision not to apply to grad school.

To most people, this seems like a simple decision. Some people just aren’t meant for further education after they finish their undergraduate degree. There’s no shame in that. But for me, it was always part of the plan.

When I was in grade six, I made the decision to pursue journalism.

Yes, I was a very ambitious child.

I created a newspaper for a class project and since then, it was my chosen career path. In high school, I loved English. I knew the next turn in my path was university, where I would take something related to writing.

I went through four years of university knowing exactly what I was going to do. I became immersed in The Cord early and I never left. At the end of every year, I knew what the next year was going to bring.

And in my last year, while all of my friends were graduating and moving on to their post-graduate endeavours, I already had a plan —

I would run the newspaper.

And even after that when my family asked me what was next, I always had the answer. I could tell them what I was doing this summer, but I always felt uneasy about saying grad school was next.

It wasn’t until this past fall when the Cord editors started talking about having to order transcripts and get references that I really stopped to think. Was grad school next for me?

I am 23-years old. I have accomplished a lot, yes, but I have also sacrificed life’s beauties and wonders by being too worried about success and looking great on a piece of paper. University opened me up to the beauty of taking time for yourself. Life goes by fast — they were always right with that existential bullshit — but it’s also okay to take time for yourself and breathe a little. It doesn’t mean you don’t deserve to be successful.

The unknown is terrifying for anyone and for it to be just over half a year away seems like a nightmare waiting to happen.

Far too often we worry about credentials, structure and balance.

We need to be able to stand on one foot on a two-by-four wooden pole with no control over what’s next.

We need to be able to stare the unknown abyss in the face and be confident in tackling it.

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Apply now for May!

14 •

Sports

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2016 SPORTS EDITOR DREW YATES dyates@thecord.ca

MEN’S BASKETBALL

Peter Campbell’s season finale Laurier bench boss coaches final regular season home game against the Waterloo Warriors ARMAN ARYAPOUR CORD SPORTS

Peter Campbell coached the final regular season home game of his career the way he loved to for the previous 31 years. And he was rewarded with a triple-digit victory.

Saturday afternoon, the Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks men’s basketball team defeated the Waterloo Warriors 104-82, closing their final home game of the season with a victory. Before the game, the Hawks honoured retiring coach Campbell, fourth-year guard Garrison Thomas and fifth-year senior guard, Will Coulthard in a pregame tribute prior to playing the rival Warriors.

The Athletic Complex was complete with Laurier, Waterloo and Laurentian alumni as head coach Campbell led the Hawks to victory, and as Coulthard was gratefully etched in history as the third alltime player for career points at 1,594.

The Hawks took off slowly at the beginning of the game, but then shook off their jitters and began dominating the mid-day contest exponentially. At the end of the first half, the Hawks led the Warriors, 54-35, in the midst repeating a similar outcome of the same matchup earlier on in the season.

After Thomas was injured during Friday Feb. 19’s matchup against the Carleton Ravens and

“Absolutely nothing good was going through my mind. I thought that we were going to give that one away.”

-Peter Campbell, men’s basketball head coach

HEATHER DAVIDSON/CORD ALUM

Navraj Randhawa protects the ball against a Waterloo defender in the Hawks 104-82 victory against the Warriors.

didn’t play the following night against the Ottawa Gee-Gees, neither he or Campbell knew whether he was going to be restricted of minutes.

But the guard closed out his home career with 19 points, 10 rebounds and four assists, shooting 53 per cent from the floor. To Thomas’ surprise, once the flow of the game started to pick up, so did his coast-to-coast abilities.

“I just started feeling good about my ankle,” expressed Thomas.

Early in the fourth quarter, the

Warriors shrunk a once 25-point lead to a mere nine points, leaving the Hawks in awe.

“Absolutely nothing good was going through my mind,” said Campbell. “I thought that we were going to give that one away.”

As the chemistry on the court came together, both Thomas and fourth-year forward Matt Chesson finished the game recording double-double performances. The sizeable Chesson finished with a routine 20 points and 11 rebounds.

Coulthard contributed to the

triple-digit win, recording a teamhigh 21 points, in attempt to hit 1,600 all-time career points.

But for him, it was all about having fun.

“We just wanted to go out and have fun … we just had to go out there and play our best,” said Coulthard.

As the three-headed dragon of Campbell, Coulthard and Thomas move on after this season, there will certainly be big shoes to fill by the up-and-coming rookie Hawks.

Simon Mikre, alongside Owen

Coulthard, will be the prodigies of the Laurier program. Mikre, the first-year guard was on both sides of the court Saturday, tallying six points, nine assists, seven rebounds and hit 101 assists in the regular season, a stat-line that certainly left an impression with Campbell. “[Mikre]’s put enough work in that he’s going to be a key in this team over the next three or four years, and that’s perfect,” he said.

“I know I’m leaving some parts in place for whoever comes in.”

Ending the regular season with momentum, the Hawks will finish 11th in the Ontario University Athletics, according to RPI system, and faces the sixth-seeded Brock Badgers in the first round of the playoffs. The last time the two met was in early January, where the Hawks lost 91-67. Laurier takes on the Badgers on March 2 in St. Catharines, in the Bob Davis Gymnasium. Tip off is at 8:00 p.m.

SPORTS IN BRIEF Cornwall leads middle distance at OUA championships Adam Cornwall of the Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks picked up two top-10 finishes at the OUA championships last weekend. Cornwall raced in the 3000 metre and placed seventh with a time of eight minutes and 23.82 seconds.

Cornwall also placed ninth in the 1500 metre with a time of three minutes and 58.56 seconds, good for ninth place.

With the CIS championships coming up next week, Cornwall will be representing Laurier on March 10–12 at York University.

Vanderbeek and Beaton-Williamson compete at CIS Kate Vanderbeek and Andrew Beaton-Williamson competed at the CIS championships at Québec City last weekend. The third-year competed in four events, with her best finish in the 50 metre backstroke — placing 14th in the ‘B’ final.

Beaton-Williamson debuted for the Hawks, racing in four events and placed 22nd and 29th in the 50 metre and 100 metre fly.

SPORTS • 15

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2016 WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

JESSICA DIK/LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER

Kaitlyn Schenck and Nicole Morrison both carry the ball during the women’s basketball game against the Waterloo Warriors on Feb. 25. The Hawks won 72-53 and head into the OUA playoffs.

Hawks finish regular season strong Laurier hosts 1,600 fans during second-annual school day game against the Waterloo Warriors ARMAN ARYAPOUR CORD SPORTS

The Wilfrid Laurier women’s basketball team can certainly hold their heads high after beating the Waterloo Warriors at home, 72-53, on Feb. 25 for their last home game of the season.

The Hawks dominated right from tip off, going on an early 9-0 run in 3:06. By the second quarter, the Hawks eventually had the Warriors trailing by as much as 30 points.

Despite the loss of injured forwards Melissa Pare and Alex Spadaro, the women’s basketball team was authoritative on all aspects of the court. While head coach Paul Falco was worried

about racking up points in the paint following their three-game loss streak in which the Hawks struggled, Laurier was able to out-rebound the Warriors both offensively and defensively, at home Thursday morning.

“You want to try and get easy buckets and points in the paint,” Falco said.

Fifth-year guard Courtney Bruce wanted to finish the season on a high note, having a remarkable performance, logging 15 points, six rebounds and shooting three-forfive from the three-point line in just 26 minutes.

According to Bruce, the Battle of Waterloo between the two rivalry schools seems to always get both teams going. She said on top of

scrimmaging with the Warriors in the summer, the Hawks like to turn up the heat a bit against their rivals, especially with the crowd at the Athletic Complex.

The heat was certainly turned up as teammates Nicole Morrison, Lauren Jamieson and Sarah Dillon all broke for double-digit points with 12, 10 and 11 points respectively. After the game, Falco expressed how important it is to use the time before the first round of the playoffs to get ready for their playoff opponent. With the defending championships, the Windsor Lancers, in the headlights, the Hawks will have to make the appropriate adjustments.

“We’ll get back to work on Sunday, prepare for Wednesday.

“We’re going to look at how we did against [Windsor] and look at what adjustments we want to make.”

-Paul Falco, women’s basketball head coach

That’s nice we have that time,” he explained after Thursdays game.

“We’re going to look at how we did against [Windsor], and look at what adjustments we want to make.”

While Pare and Spadaro await clearance for their injuries, the

Hawks continue on the road with a small-ball presence. The Hawks have had some regular season trouble against Windsor, dropping both of their games despite drawing within three points in their last regular season meeting, dropping the decision 72-69.

Ranked 10th in the Ontario University Athletics conference headed to the playoffs, Bruce anticipates plenty, alongside the predominately rookie squad.

“I think that we’re going to surprise a lot of people. We’re the underdogs and I think that’s exciting,” she said.

The Hawks will take on the Lancers on March 2 in Windsor at the St. Denis Centre. Tip off is at 6:00 p.m.

16 • SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2016

WOMEN’S HOCKEY

Laurier moves onto semifinals Hawks upset No. 4 Toronto Varsity Blues in their own arena in best-of-three quarter-final series DREW YATES SPORTS EDITOR

Rick Osborne knows that a women’s hockey best-of-three series is a war. As much as it’s nice to win two battles and get it over with, sometimes you have to lose the battle in order to win the war.

And so with their season on the line, the Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks drove to Toronto to battle the Varsity Blues in their own arena for the third and final battle.

And after three overtime periods, the Hawks came out on top, accomplishing what they couldn’t do over the regular season.

And Osborne’s troops are tired.

“It feels like we’ve been here for a week,” said the bench boss after the series victory. “We’ve got a pretty tired team, but a pretty excited team as well.”

The quarter-final series required five periods of extra time on top of nine periods of regulation before a winner could be determined.

After the Varsity Blues took the first battle of the series 3-2, the Hawks clawed back, winning game two in overtime when fifth-year Jessie Hurrell beat Valencia Yordanov blocker side.

Head to game three, where third-year Dollee Meigs scored the game-winning goal in the third overtime period, upsetting the No. 4 team in the country and propelling Laurier to the Ontario University Athletics semifinals.

“We knew they don’t get to be No. 4 in the country based on not earning that standing,” Osborne said. “The three overtime games,

“It feels like we’ve been here for a week. We’ve got a pretty tired team, but a pretty excited team as well.”

-Rick Osborne, women’s hockey head coach

WILL HUANG/PHOTO EDITOR

Jessie Hurrell skates with the puck during game two of the best-of-three series against Toronto. Laurier won 1-0.

it was one of those series for the ages.”

Third-year goaltender Amanda Smith played shutout hockey and thrived under the playoff pressure, posting a .969 save percentage and stopped a total of 94 shots over three games. Osborne said the key this year for Smith was having the first half of the season to recuperate and get into shape.

And when she does gets herself in shape and in the zone, “there’s

nobody better in the league.”

Smith’s performance, alongside a strong supporting cast with superb conditioning, gave the Hawks the offensive and defensive power needed to defeat the Varsity Blues.

“This team is really gutsy. The new players we brought in all played tonight and they all played really well as well as [Blair] Connelly, and [Haley] Baxter, and [Giuliana Pallotta] and [Jacky Normandeau], we have absolutely

no passengers,” Osborne said.

“This is one tough team to play against — they’re big, they’re physical and we were stronger and tougher when it counted.”

One of the key combinations for Laurier is the line of Meigs, Robyn Degagne and Erika Kiviaho.

Kiviaho had the speed and power to create space for Meigs and Degagne so they can create scoring opportunities.

Osborne said splitting Degagne

and Hurrell up a couple games ago has given Meigs an opportunity to move back into the top six and gives Laurier a couple lines that can provide some offensive power.

Meigs picked up two goals in the series while Degagne had three points.

And the reward for beating No. 4 in the country? A date with No. 1.

The next war en route to the OUA championship is the top-ranked Guelph Gryphons.

Osborne believes if the Hawks are going to pull another upset, they have to remain disciplined and limit their penalties against a potent Gryphon offence.

“Guelph is a really explosive and talented offensively. They have the best goaltender in the league and in the country for most of the season,” Osborne said. “They’ve got all the parts and we absolutely will need to be very disciplined.”

“If you take penalties against Guelph, you just won’t beat them,” he continued.

“We’re going to have to do everything we can to just make it one of those playoff pressure types of series.”

FEATURE

Staying positive on the ice MacCulloch stays upbeat during first season with Hawks DREW YATES SPORTS EDITOR

WILL HUANG/PHOTO EDITOR

Madison MacCulloch keeps things positive in first season with the Hawks.

Madison MacCulloch of the Wilfrid Laurier women’s hockey team is having a strong first season with the Hawks.

In her first year, the rookie scored seven goals and added six helpers, making her tied for first place in scoring for the Hawk squad.

MacCulloch also contributes during key times — providing offence to a team that’s struggled with putting goals on the board all year.

She has provided a spark for the Hawks, going on a three-game point streak and putting up six points near the end of the first half of the season when Laurier was shut out for two consecutive games back in November against the Ryerson Rams and the Western Mustangs.

MacCulloch also assisted on Jessie Hurrell’s overtime goal against the Toronto Varsity Blues in the first round of the playoffs that evened the series on Feb. 26, and was an integral part in the Hawks moving onto the Ontario University Athletics semifinals.

MacCulloch contributes her success to the rookie class that came in this year — they have all created a support system.

“We’re all really good in supporting each other, and I just did my best, played my role for

“It’s not about being fancy.

Most of the points this year are goals in the crease.”

-Madison MacCulloch, first-year forward

the team,” she said. “I get a lot of support from the coaches, my parents.”

The Hawks have enjoyed contributions from their rookie class doing some of the heavy lifting, including MacCulloch, who believes that the Hawks have a strong foundation moving forward in the right direction.

While she’s on the ice, MacCulloch works to be a positive influence, using her skating to get as many pucks in the net.

“I try to stay upbeat. I like to think I bring positive vibes to the team,” she explained. “If anyone’s down, I cheer us on.”

The key to MacCulloch’s success has been through the encouragement of her coach, Rick Osborne.

Since the start of the year, Osborne made all the rookies work for their spots on the team, so he put MacCulloch on the wing, away from her natural position as centre.

MacCulloch said it motivated her to work harder to go back to

playing her natural position. MacCulloch enjoys the mobility on the ice when she plays centre.

“I like being over the place. I like helping out the wingers, the defence. My coach always says I go in loops or circles,” she said. “I like taking draws.”

MacCulloch said she likes working with her linemates.

Currently, she’s built chemistry with linemate Jessica Prevette and they are currently clicking very well, making strong plays that turn into goals. The two of them have fed pucks to each other throughout the season, allowing each of them to score often. MacCulloch and Prevette worked together to combine for six points while on the ice — something the Hawks will need to provide offensive output as they prepare for their upcoming semifinal series against the topranked Guelph Gryphons.

“It’s not about being fancy,” she said. “Most of the points this year are goals in the crease.”

“I try to stay upbeat. I like to think I bring positive vibes to the team.”

-Madison MacCulloch, first-year forward