VOL. 101 – ISSUE 4
THE TRUMPET
SEPTEMBER 30, 2021
WEST LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
WLU’s Student News Source
Professor Moonjung Kang teaching in the new and improved graphic lab, room 111, in the Fine Arts Building!
WLU Foundation secures a $200,000 donation to update Blatnik gym and graphic design lab - pg. 3 WLU women’s soccer season overview - pg. 13 @WLTrumpetOnline @thetrumpetwestliberty @thetrumpetwlu
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THE TRUMPET
NEWS
Photo Credits: Creed Kidney
Beta Theta becomes first co-ed Greek organization in West Virginia - pg. 5
WEST LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
COVER BY: ANNALISE MURPHY
CULTURE SPORTS
Photo Credits: Caitlin Reynolds
Photo Credits: Hilltopper Sports
Blue hats to beat out bullying: looming style - pg. 8
WLU football downs Alderson Broaddus - pg. 16
THE TRUMPET
The Student Voice of the Hilltop
The Trumpet’s mission is to provide WLU students of all majors an opportunity to learn how to gather and present news information to the campus community, and to serve the campus community with fair and accurate reporting on matters of significance and interest.
EDITORIAL STAFF Editor-in-Chief Annalise Murphy Online Editor Creed Kidney News Editor Brianna Hamon Culture Editor Intern Faith Hayes Opinion Editor Intern Kailey Carpino Sports Editor Intern Ross Salvatori Graphic Designer/Photographer Haley Blakemore Graphic Designer/Illustrator Samantha Snyder Sports Writer Maxwell Fledorczyk Culture News Writer Caitlin Reynolds Director Danielle Mehlman-Brightwell
Letters to the Editor
To submit a letter to the editor, please email anmurphy@westliberty.edu. Please list your name, address, phone number, and email address; if the piece is published, you will be contacted to confirm your identity.
Contact Us
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NEWS
SEPTEMBER 30, 2021
NEWS
News Editor: Brianna Hamon
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- bnhamon bnhamon@westliberty.edu @westliberty.edu
WLU Foundation secures a $200,000 donation to update Blatnik gym and graphic design lab The West Liberty University Foundation secured a $200,000 procured gift from two donors, Kristina Williams and Jim Taibi, both who graduated from West Liberty State College in 1986. Williams and Taibi currently reside in Urbandale, Iowa. The donation will be used for several maintenance projects across campus but will mainly go towards updates in the Blatnik gym and the graphics lab, located in room 111 in the fine arts building. Angie Zambito-Hill, executive director of the WLU Foundation, explained that the foundation is a separate, non-profit organization from the university; however, its mission is to serve the university “through fundraising, investment, stewardship, and management of private funds.” Hill described how the Foundation goes through a development process each fiscal year (July 1 to June 30) which helps them identify projects on campus that need to be addressed. “So, each cycle we have a number of projects that we have slated to be addressed and that list is approved by the president and his cabinet and reviewed by the board of governors as well as the WLU Foundation Board. This process sets the tone for projects that we are going to be pursuing,” Hill further explained. Joe Rodella, the university’s chief information officer/chief operations officer information technology says that the computers were “past their useful life” and needed replaced. “Without the support of the WLU Foundation
and the generosity of their donors, the project would have taken multiple budget cycles. We are very grateful for the philanthropic generosity of our donors and are convinced that this will prove a great benefit to our students by allowing faculty to leverage the most current software in their curriculum,” said Rodella. Hill said, “These two projects will have a direct impact on students. The design programs are very dependent on updates on technology. That was viewed as a significant need to replace them. Blatnik gym is involved in updating the floor and the space to make it more user friendly for student recreation activities.”
Dr. Martyna Matusiak, chair for the department of media and visual arts, shared her gratitude towards the donors and the WLU Foundation. Revealing she was “thrilled” to learn the updates were happening this year, Matusiak said, “[I felt] extreme gratitude for the generous support. It was a long road and investment that wouldn’t be possible without the WLU Foundation’s hard work.” According to Mutasiak, the iMacs in the graphics lab were over 10 years old and had been limiting student and faculty potential. She added, “this new space will allow students to gain skills in artistic, academic and industry-specific areas under the guidance of WLU faculty.” Additionally, these specific updates will be serving many programs within the college of liberal and creative arts. “These updates will serve several areas in our college. We have consolidated two digital labs into one now, so this design lab serves music technology programs, photography students, the digital media design program and visual communication program. It
Visual communication design (VCD) student Emily Everson working on one of the new iMacs in the updated graphic design lab. Photo Credits: Annalise Murphy is probably the busiest classroom in tablets, we are able to benefit from newer, our building,” Matusiak shared. faster and more modern technology. I use the iMacs in the design lab often, espe Moonjung Kang, professor cially for programs more difficult to run of visual communication design, ex- on my laptop like After Effects. I feel like I pressed her feeling of excitement have already noticed a difference in speed by saying “[I felt] happy and thankful. and performance, which is very exciting!” These updates are a vital and essen- Everson showed emotions of appreciatial thing for us.” Kang shared how tion saying she would like to thank those difficult the learning and teaching who have contributed to the updates in process was while working with out- the lab. Everson said, “I know that I and dated equipment saying, “you would many others are very appreciative of their not believe how bad it is when we help to us!” are trying to run a program and it is running really slow.” Both the students and professors within the college of liberal and creative After the updates have been arts extend their deepest gratitude to made, Kang claims there has already Williams and Taibi, whose generous gift been a “significant” difference in the made these updates to campus possible. classroom. “These computers are a The college would also like to thank IT tool. It is our major program. Basically, services for seeing the updating process if the computers and their programs through. are rusty and not working, you cannot study properly.” “The WLU Foundation is focused on building a culture of philanthropy at Emily Everson, a visual com- WLU. We hope to find ways to educate munication design student here at our students on the impact philanthropy the university, shared some of her has on our campus and the number of experiences with the new updates projects, scholarships and programs that to the lab saying, “the design lab up- private donors give back on an annual badates are definitely very beneficial to sis. Many of them give because WLU had our design experience and efficiency. a huge impact on their lives and they are Between receiving new iMacs and now in a position to give back,” said Hill. other new technology, like drawing
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SEPTEMBER 30, 2021
College of Education approved for WVDE Alternative Certification Program
The College of Education at West Liberty University (WLU) is now approved for the West Virginia Department of Education Alternative Certification Program. This accomplishment means that students in the education program will be fully certified when they graduate. Before this change, students had to get their certification after graduating, which takes a long period of time. According to the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) website, “The West Virginia Department of Education continuously strives to assist school districts in their efforts to promote, recruit and retain a highly effective and diverse workforce. The WVDE Alternative Certification Program has created the opportunities below for school districts to recruit individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree or higher and meet the eligibility criteria to fill teacher vacancies in areas of critical need and shortage.” This partnership between the five county school systems in
the Northern West Virginia Panhandle and WLU under the supervision of the West Virginia Board of Education is designed for qualified persons who desire to become licensed teachers in West Virginia. The courses required for Alternative Certification can lead toward the masters of arts in Education (M.A.Ed.) degree. In order to be eligible for this program, students must complete a background check, pass the Praxis I (CASE) exam, receive a formal offer of employment from a county superintendent, complete the WLU admissions application online, take the required courses for the specified certification area and pass the Praxis II for the desired certification area. Students must also complete the process within three years. The required courses for this program are Classroom Teaching, Trends and Issues in Education and Multisensory Teaching Methods for elementary teachers or Advanced Literacy Instruction for secondary teachers. For more information, contact Dr. Nicole Ennis, the advisor for this program by emailing nicole. ennis@westliberty.edu. Students can also go to the Alternative Certification page on West Liberty’s website to learn more about the process of certification.
A College of Business motivational poster located on the outside of Main Hall. Photo Credits: Haley Blakemore
NEWS
I-70 bridges project set for completion this October
I-70 construction, a $215 million Interstate 70 Bridges project, is scheduled to end in October 2021. Swank Construction met the set deadlines and has equipped local and interstate travelers with safe bridges. This reopening has been anticipated by many West Liberty University students, staff, faculty and citizens in the Wheeling area. This construction of 26 bridges from the Ohio state line to Milepost 7 began in 2019. The construction was divided into three sections: the Ohio state line to the West side of the tunnel, the East side of the tunnel to Elm Grove and the I-470 interchange to Mile Post 7/Middle Creek Road. The final phase of construction will start on September 27 and end on September 30. Work will persist from 8-4 p.m. in the evening each day. The exit lane will be narrowed on I-70 West-bound to Route 2 South Exit 1B. The main detour is Interstate 470 and the local Fulton to downtown detour is US-40 National Road. If you are coming from the West Virginia side to West Liberty, you can bypass I-70 completely by taking the truck route. In order to get to West Liberty on
40, you must pass the signs for I-70 and take a left turn followed by a right leading to Fulton street. You have four left-hand turns to make in this detour. Interstate 70 eastbound reopening means traffic will no longer be a problem for Oglebay Park and their annual Oglebayfest and Winter Festival of Lights event. In addition, commuters will no longer have to factor traffic into their morning schedule. Kailey Carpino, a commuter student at West Liberty, said, “I’m really glad that they’re finally finishing construction on I-70. The construction has been really inconvenient for me, especially since it takes me a lot longer to drive to class. Once the construction is completed, my commute to campus will also be safer. Right now I take a lot of back roads to avoid traffic, and they flood easily and don’t have streetlights. Once the construction is done, my commute to campus will be faster and safer.” Ryan Wilson, a nursing major at West Liberty, explained that he can’t wait for the construction to end because it will make it much easier to travel to and from his clinicals in the nursing program. For construction updates and more information, visit City of Wheeling, WV - I-70 Construction Information (wheelingwv.gov) visit www.i70forward.com.
A road work sign below the I-70 bridge. Photo Credits: Haley Blakemore
NEWS
SEPTEMBER 30, 2021
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Beta Theta becomes first co-ed Greek organization in West Virginia said Billings. Like most other sororities and fraternities on campus, Beta Theta requires a minimum grade point average (GPA) and current enrollment status at WLU. They are currently in the process of changing their constitution and by-laws to potentially allow for Graduate student membership.
Over the summer, West Liberty University Student Life made some progressive transitions that not only changed the face of Greek life at West Liberty but in West Virginia as well. After seeing a need for more inclusivity on campus, Beta Theta Gamma, a local fraternity founded in 1993, made the decision to become the first co-ed Greek organization. West Liberty Greek life is openly supportive of all students by allowing members who identify with the LGBTIQ community to join a sorority or fraternity of their choice. However, Beta Theta came to the decision to become co-ed after an unsuccessful year of recruiting due to COVID-19 and speaking with students who didn’t feel comfortable in joining a traditional Greek organization. Kate Billings, director of student life, had this to say about Greek life at West Liberty: “We seek to be open, inclusive, and supportive of the LGBTIQ community and any student of any background. The university believes all students have the right to participate fully in every aspect of campus life. In our Greek System here, we have had students who identify as male joining fraternities and same for sororities.”
Beta Theta must follow the same guidelines as all other chapters in the Greek system, so a member of a current fraternity or sorority cannot join Beta Theta unless they disaffiliate from their chapter and wait one semester to join. Students (from left to right): Dacia Jones, Jordan Davis and Danielle Merritt working in WLU’s Student Greek Lounge. Photo Credits: Creed Kidney solely founded upon brother and sisterhood. The only difference that exists between Beta Theta and a sorority or fraternity is their welcomeness to any sex or gender identity. Tyler Huggins, a current member of Beta Theta, explained that co-ed Greek groups are not common in West Virginia and add-
ing one to West Liberty will add a unique element to campus and expand their horizons to more opportunities. “I think this is important to WLU because it shows that even though we are a smaller campus, we develop and grow just like big schools. Our organizations are changing as our society is changing,”
With this change being new to campus, Huggins stated “I’m looking forward to all of the endless possibilities that come along with going co-ed. I believe that going co-ed will allow us to have a wider range of perspectives when it comes to organizational matters and events. I cannot wait to see what my Greek siblings can come together and create!” The end of the recruitment process is quickly approaching, so Beta Theta will be hosting their last continuous open bidding (COB) events in search of new members. Their latest event, Ratatouille, was held inside the union where they presented the Pixar movie Ratatouille and gave out free snacks and Olive Garden breadsticks.
Billings went on to explain that after Beta Theta made the formal request to offer the Greek experience to everyone based on progressiveness and brotherhood, the Office of Student Life ran the decision by the administration where they received full approval. Most co-ed organizations like Kappa Delta Pi, the International Honor Society in Education, are based around academics and area of study whereas Beta Theta operates as a Greek organization
As part of their philanthropic work, Beta Theta plans to get involved with the Big Brother and Big Sister program, an organization with the mission of pairing adult volunteers with children and teens to guide them in a promising path to adulthood.
For more information about Beta Theta becoming a co-ed Greek organization, please contact Kate Billings, director of Student Life, at kate. billings@westliberty.edu. Beta Theta’s president and homecoming candidate, Jacob Walker, with his running mate Mycah Yoho, a member of Beta Rho Epsilon. Photo Credits: Ryan Patrick
Stay up to date on all things Greek by visiting the West Liberty Activities Instagram page.
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SEPTEMBER 30, 2021
White House Press Secretary Addresses COVID-19 and Immigration Concerns Contributing Writer: Kayla Deem A press briefing was held in the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room by White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki on Sept. 20, 2021, where she addressed pressing questions regarding COVID-19 and immigration. As the COVID-19 pandemic has continued to spread throughout the world, people within the United States have become increasingly concerned with vaccination requirements. Especially how they will be implemented for international travelers and immigrants. Press secretary Jen Psaki assured that there will be a policy that addresses the issue for foreign travelers and what will allow them access to the country. Psaki stated, “starting in November, we will be implementing — I should say, in early November, we’ll be putting in place strict protocols to prevent the spread of COVID-19 from passengers flying internationally into the United States by requiring that adult foreign nationals traveling to the United States be fully vaccinated.”
This topic of policy led to questions concerning immigration, specifically Haitian immigrants, and how Title 42 has impacted their ability to be permitted into the United States. Title 42 allows for the CDC to prohibit people from getting into the United States if it is believed that they could introduce the Coronavirus into the country. Haitians seeking asylum in the U.S. from their native country have been seen in increasing numbers due to various disasters that have happened in Haiti. This includes earthquakes, their President being assassinated, gangs and overall unrest within the country exacerbated by the global pandemic. As mass groups of Haitians have been trying to get through the U.S. border, it has resulted in them getting deported back to their country due to the current state. When addressing this further, Psaki stated, “we’ve been conveying that this is not the time to come.” This topic led to the questioning of “equity and fairness” for the Haitians and the mistreatment they have been seen to receive at the border at the hands of Border Patrol agents.
NEWS
Governor Jim Justice urges vaccination in light of rising COVID cases Contributing Writer: Alyssa Witter
West Virginia Governor Jim Justice expressed disappointment to citizens this week by saying, “We could have stopped this” in a COVID-19 briefing on Friday, Sept. 24, 2021. Justice announced in this press briefing that Pfizer booster shots are now available to West Virginia residents. He shared the recommendations of the Center for Disease Control (CDC) regarding who should and those who may receive the booster shot six months after their second dose of Pfizer. “For the most part, if you want a booster shot, and you are 18 years or older in any situation (where) you feel compromised, you can now go get your booster shot,” says Justice. In the news briefing, Justice stated that as of now, the individuals who should get their booster include people 65 years and older who have received their first dose of Pfizer up to six months ago, residents in long term care settings six months after
receiving their first dose of Pfizer, and people 50-64 years old if they have underlying health conditions six months after receiving their first dose of Pfizer. Justice says that as of now, individuals who may receive the booster shot six months after receiving their first dose of Pfizer include people who are 18-49 years old with underlying medical conditions and people who are 18-64 years old who are at an increased risk for COVID-19 because of an institutional setting. He also announced that the CDC will be releasing information on the Moderna and Johnson and Johnson vaccines soon. Justice has and will continue to encourage everyone to get vaccinated and take advantage of the booster shots. He stated that many of the confirmed hospitalizations of individuals with COVID-19 are going to die, and residents of West Virginia could have stopped this death toll through vaccinations. After listing off by county the age and gender of each individual that has died from COVID-19 since Wednesday, Justice announced the state statistics. As of Friday, there were 231,668 cases, 16,223 active cases and 2,685 new deaths reported since the last update. Justice also offered statistics on hospitalizations. He reports that there were 1,008 confirmed cases hospitalized of which 80.3% were unvaccinated, 289 cases in the ICU of which 84.4% were unvaccinated and 187 cases of hospitalized individuals on a ventilator of which 88.8% were unvaccinated.
Graphic of Topper the Bear Graphic By: Samantha Snyder
For more information about Gov. Jim Justice’s COVID-19 briefing and more news updates to come, please visit https://governor.wv.gov/Pages/default.aspx.
CULTURE
CULTURE SEPTEMBER 30, 2021
Culture Editor Intern: Faith Hayes
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- fbhayes@westliberty.edu
Celebrating Constitution Day with a COVID-19 vaccine mandate debate Contributing Writer: Kaitlynn Wheeler
On Wednesday Sept. 22, West Liberty University (WLU) commemorated Constitution Day by holding a debate in the Alumni room, located in the student union on WLU’s main campus. The event took place in person, but there was also an option to attend the debate virtually through the Zoom application. Constitution Day recognizes when the U.S. Constitution was signed and established in the American government. WLU has been celebrating this event for the past few years; however, students were unable to celebrate Constitution Day and attend the debate due to the COVID-19 pandemic in the fall 2020 semester. Dr. Brian Fitzpatrick, a political science professor, coordinated the student debate and served as the moderator. Fitzpatrick and his political science students decided to debate on the following resolution: Vaccine mandates do not violate civil liberty protections in the United States Constitution. “The resolution is very relevant. You hear about it in the news,” said Fitzpatrick. The debate consisted of four of Fitzpatrick’s political science students that were split up into two teams. One affirming the resolution, the other opposing it. Before the debate began, Fitzpatrick had the audience members log into the website Kahoot to determine the number of people for or against the resolution. Five votes were in favor of the resolution, one voted against it while two were undecided.
Each team had three minutes to present their opening and closing remarks. After each team presented their opening arguments, Fitzpatrick transitioned to the open debate portion, which lasted ten minutes. Lastly, 15 minutes were devoted to audience questions. Natosha Douglas and Ismail Amara, the students supporting the resolution, essentially argued that vaccine mandates enhance civil liberties because they protect the most vulnerable such as the elderly, children, or those with a compromising condition, through herd immunity. On the other hand, Brendan Sands and Jimmy Willis argue vaccine mandates, though enacted for the greater good of the public, still inhibit different groups of people who do not desire to get vaccinated. Before the end of the debate, Fitzpatrick had the audience members log into Kahoot once more and vote on the resolution to see if anyone was persuaded by either team. Overall, Douglas and Amara’s position maintained the most number of votes. However, Sands and Willis did gain three more votes compared to the first results. Douglas expressed that she was very passionate about this year’s debate. “It’s not very often that women do something like this in such a male dominated field,” said Douglas Amara on the other hand wanted to redefine how people should understand civil liberties. “I think the definition of civil liberties are still a little blurry,” said Amara. This year’s Constitution Day was celebrated with a civil debate filled with passionate students presenting cohesive arguments. Fitzpatrick is proud of his students and their contributions.
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SEPTEMBER 30, 2021
CULTURE
Blue hats to beat out bullying: looming style
The Campus Ministry is putting on a social service event called “Learn to Loom” for students to make hats and give them out to organizations of their choosing. The organizations that the Campus Ministry teamed up with are HatNotHate, Ohio County Schools, local freeze shelters, orphanages and hospitals. These special blue hats represent an anti-bullying message and are donated to different organizations hoping to inspire those wearing them to stand up to bullying. Diann Nickerson, who recently became the pastor of the Interfaith Chapel, oversees the Protestant Campus Ministry. Nickerson is currently trying to provide more projects for the campus to do for the community. In the most recent Learn to Loom meeting, she taught students how to loom and let students borrow the supplies to finish making their hats. Nickerson says that the program will be “student-driven.” She suggests that students interested in looming watch videos on YouTube to see how looming works. Nickerson said that was how she learned to loom hats, because she is such “a visual learner.” Shirley Carter is a part of the Catholic Campus Ministry. She has been helping with Learn to Loom alongside Nickerson. Carter explains that it all started with a conversation that could have a huge impact on the community. “A great way to connect students is through service,” Carter said when discussing community service projects to have on campus. The two ladies thought it would be a nice way to bring students together while also helping
From left to right, Courtney Louk, Nikki Thompson, Rylee Bachmann, and Kiersten Moses enjoying looming together. Photo Credits: Caitlin Reynolds
the community. Carter explains that she was so on board with the hat idea because of the success that other knitting groups have had with donating hats to the hospital for sick children and babies. A West Liberty University (WLU) student, Courtney Louk, says that she had fun with this Learn to Loom program. Louk said “I watched the people around me and they were doing pretty good. They were laughing and having fun.” She explains that she didn’t make her hat correctly, but being with her friends made it worthwhile. Louk says that she will likely attend another event with her friends and plans on donating her finished hats when she gets better at the skill of looming. Another WLU student, Kiersten
Moses, says that she came to the event after her friend informed her about it. She thought it would be fun. “I’m enjoying it a lot,“ Moses said when asked about the program. Louk says she is planning on coming back for the next looming event. “It’s a really big stress reliever for me” Moses says about looming. She also suggests this relaxing event to others. Moses’s advice for anyone who is being bullied is that it will eventually go away. Like most of us, Moses has been bullied before; however, her standpoint on the matter is that life continues, and everyone eventually grows up. To discover more about Learn to Loom stop by the Interfaith Chapel and talk to Diann Nickerson for more details.
Graphic By: Haley Blakemore
SEPTEMBER 30, 2021
CULTURE
PAGE 9
WL Student Activities holds Paint n’ Pour Event Where: The Quad When: Sept. 24 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
An art piece drying by the foil container where the access paint dripped. Photo Credits: Haley Blakemore
A supply tub used at the Paint n’ Pour Event. Photo Credits: Haley Blakemore
Three art pieces drying on another table. Photo Credits: Haley Blakemore
Four art pieces drying on the main table. Photo Credits: Haley Blakemore
A view of one of the tables at the event. Photo Credits: Haley Blakemore
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SEPTEMBER 30, 2021
Meet WLU’s New Dean of Business Contributing Writer: Hannah Dague
Saurbier is a mother of two college aged sons. She describes herself as very family oriented, as well as outgoing and personable. Saurbier also says she is curious and hungry to learn which is apparent by her plethora of higher education. Before coming to West Liberty University, Saurbier had been working at Walsh College, an institution primarily focused on non-traditional adult students. This means that most of the students were working full-time and attending classes at night. Saurbier has always wanted to work at a traditional institution, and when she started looking, she was really drawn to WLU. Previously, she has only lived outside of Michigan to get her undergraduate degree from Miami University in Ohio. Her undergraduate degree is in accounting. Her goal with that degree was to become part of an organization rather than being a certified public accountant. After attending Miami University, Saurbier attained her masters and doctorate from Walsh University in Michigan. Her masters is in management, and it was there that she discovered her passion for education. Right after graduating, she started teaching management and obtained her doctorate in management. Saurbier hopes to bring the College of Business even further beyond its current success. She wants to continue growing the college, as well as develop new business clubs and organizations. Saurbier is already impressed with the staff and professors of West Liberty’s College of Business. She
Tenth Annual International Culture Fair
Contributing Writer: Logan Riggenbach
Dr. Ann Saurbier is West Liberty University’s new dean of business, and she has described her experience so far as nothing less than amazing.
Photo Credits: WLU Media Relations said that she can really sense the community the college has built over the years. As for these new organizations in the College of Business, Saurbier is open to suggestions and would love to discuss any ideas someone might have. One idea that has been presented to her already is to use the restaurant space for a student lead business. She is also looking to try and develop new partnerships as well as deeper roots in the community of the College of Business and throughout the rest of West Liberty University.
CULTURE
On Sept. 21, 2021 the International Culture Fair was held in West Liberty University’s student union (on the main campus) to display cultures from around the world. Students gathered in the ballroom to learn about and celebrate the cultures of all these countries. The International Culture fair has been held here at WLU for the past 10 years, and offers the opportunity to the university’s exchange and international degree-seeking students a way to showcase their cultures to the campus community. The students gathered in the college union to display different aspects of their cultures. They all created poster boards and some were dressed in traditional clothing. The International Culture Fair is a way for WLU’s Exchange Partners through the Department of State to give back to the campus for hosting their programs. It’s also a way for the International Student club to promote awareness and allow other students to learn about other cultures without having to actually leave the U.S.
“I think it’s really important for college students to learn about the world at large,” said Ryan Glanville, coordinator of international programs and recruiting international student advisor at West Liberty, “It’s also really important for the international students, so they know that they aren’t the only ones, that there is a community here at West Liberty.” The Fair has an impact on not just our local students, but it also allows our foreign exchange students to make connections and learn about each other’s cultures. “One of the things I like about the Culture Fair is to talk to students and introduce our Mongolian culture to students and faculty members,” said Oyuka Battsogt, an international student, “It has always been fun to learn from my fellow international students about their cultures.” Those in attendance were students representing Mongolia, Germany, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Ukraine, Laos, the Philippines, Russia, Malawi, Indonesia, Nicaragua and others.
Saurbier wants students to know that the MBA program is great for those who want to experience a little bit of everything. This program is meant for students who have an undergraduate degree and want to add onto their knowledge. Saurbier also stressed that the MBA program is not just for business majors. The program is a great pathway that gives students the business knowledge that will give them the edge when applying for positions. Saubier’s biggest piece of advice for students is to just be present in class both mentally and physically. That being said, whether you are a student of hers or not, be sure to give Saurbier a warm West Liberty welcome when you see her.
Students who attended the International Culture Fair. Photo Credits: Ryan Glanville
SEPTEMBER 30, 2021
OPINION
OPINION
Opinion Editor Intern: Kailey Carpino
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- kcaprino@westliberty.edu
How to Apply for Financial Aid The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 2022-2023 academic year opens on Oct. 1. When a student files the FAFSA, they may become eligible for scholarships or grants (based on need and merit), workstudy programs or low-interest loans. Some states have deadlines for when students need to complete FAFSA forms, so make sure that you know what the deadlines are for the state you reside in. Katie Cooper, director of financial aid, said that some of the most beneficial financial aid funds are firstcome, first-served. Students are twice as likely to receive financial help for college if they file the FAFSA early. Students need to create a FSA ID online at StudentAid.gov if they have not done so already to
fill out the FAFSA form. To create an account, students need their Social Security number and an email address. A mobile phone number is optional for the FSA ID, but is strongly recommended as it makes it easier to reset your password. Students will enter a username and password, as well as answering questions to prove your identity. Make sure to write down this information somewhere because you’ll need it again and it can be tough to reset the FSA ID if you forget it. Applicants use the same FSA ID each year. They need to change the password once every 18 months, but the username would remain the same. The FAFSA form is on the myStudentAid app, available at the App Store or on Google Play, or you can visit fafsa.ed.gov to apply for financial aid for college or graduate school. Students can also be starting to look for scholarship opportunities and other forms of finan-
Photo Credits: Kailey Carpino
Photo Credits: Haley Blakemore
cial aid separate from the FAFSA. Cooper says that almost all students qualify for some type of financial aid such as a loan or a grant, and you may qualify for financial aid even if you don’t think that you should. Even if you don’t qualify for financial aid right now, your financial situation may change, so it is still beneficial to create a FAFSA ID and do any other steps ahead of time. The FAFSA can help you determine if your state is giving scholarships and grants to students. The FAFSA also offers federal work study opportunities, in which students can work and make money while attending school.
West Liberty University student Kelsey Stewart says that last year she was surprised by how much money she qualified for, and she plans on filling out her FAFSA form early this October in hopes that she will get as much help as possible in paying for her education. For more information, contact Katie Cooper or the financial aid office. Visit the FAFSA website to apply for financial aid sooner rather than later. You can also go to studentaid.gov or westliberty.edu/financial-aid for help with financial aid.
SEPTEMBER 30, 2021
PAGE 12
OPINION
Should you get a flu shot? Here’s why you should While we sadly still find ourselves in the midst of a global pandemic, it’s more important than ever for every one of us to be taking care of ourselves physically, mentally and emotionally. Our health is a top priority for not only you, but also for your community. One way you can ensure your own safety and the safety of others is by getting your yearly flu shot. Currently, the office of Student Health Services is offering flu shots for $20, made out in cash or check, to WLU students by walkin or appointment. To make an appointment, students can call the office at (304) 336-8049, or email nurse Christy Bennington. The office is located in the lower level of Shaw Hall and is open Monday – Friday from 7 a.m. – 2 p.m. If necessitated by appointment, the office hours can be extended.
Personally, I know that my immune system definitely isn’t the strongest, and I know that if I was unlucky enough to get the flu, I’d probably go on to get COVID-19 and one of its variants. I admit, that might be me being pessimistic, but with all my past experiences with health, sickness, vaccinations, and the hospital, I can never be too careful! This same point was echoed by Bennington when I went in for my flu shot just the other day; “With everything going on, you have to take as many precautions as possible to make sure you’re not only taking care of yourself, but your friends and family as well. Getting your yearly flu shot gives you a reassurance that you’re at a lower level to contract influenza, but it also makes you less likely to be contagious if you do catch anything through the season.”
Of course, everyone has their own personal opinions and feelings towards the COVID-19 vaccine and vaccines in general, and to a point, it’s understandable
Door to the office of Student Health Services Photo Credits: Creed Kidney
given how new COVID-19 is to all of us. However, we all know the flu too well, and in the midst of the pandemic, I think we can all agree that our health is the most important thing right now. Freshman Leah Reuschel, a dental hygiene major, echoed these same sentiments when asked if she was going to get her flu shot to prepare for the upcoming cold season; “I think so, in one respect I know it’s the best thing to do, especially with COVID-19 and the Delta variant still raging throughout the world, right now more than ever it’s so important for people to take care of themselves and make sure their body is ready for any kind of illness the world might throw at them and just hope it’s not COVID-19 or any of its variants. On the other hand, I’ve gotten flu shots before that have left me feeling pretty sick, so I’m a little apprehensive. In the end,
though, I probably will get it just so I don’t take anything home to my mom or my friends. It’s the best thing to do for the greater community, right now.” If you’re feeling a little nervous to get your flu shot, take comfort in knowing that you’re not alone; in a world ravaged by a global pandemic, every kind of illness has become exponentially scarier to all of us. If you have the resources, however, to prepare for the sickness the world might throw at you, I cannot encourage you to take advantage of them enough; and remember, if you don’t get a flu shot for yourself, just think of it as getting it for your loved ones. For more information regarding this article, please email Kidney at ctkidney@westliberty.edu.
SPORTS SEPTEMBER 30, 2021
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Sports Editor Intern: Ross Salvatori
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- resalvatori@westliberty.edu
WLU women’s soccer season overview
Out of half, WLU continued their pace, as Aperfine gave the Hilltoppers the ultimate game winning goal at the 51 minute mark. While the Hilltoppers logged a total of ten shots and five of those on goal, Montgomery helped hold off Fairmont State, making four saves in the process.
The West Liberty University women’s soccer team kicked off Mountain East Conference (MEC) play. For the Lady Hilltoppers, they have seen quite the success they have been aiming for against conference foes early on, posting a 3-1-1 record through five games. Conference play first opened for the Lady Hilltoppers against Glenville State College (15), which was an absolute thriller to say the least. Following an opening 1-0 loss against Seton Hill (32), the Hilltoppers bounced back thanks to great team play and a goal from Anne Williams. Williams, off a free kick, rifled a ball that curves right past Glenville keeper Mikayala Brown to give West Liberty the lead 1-0. This goal ultimately proved to be the winner for the squad, as they received strong backing from their defense and goaltender Olivia Montgomery, who made two saves on three shots. Following the win, the Lady Toppers had a very hard fought draw against the reigning MEC champs, Notre Dame College of Ohio (1-2-2) that featured 15 combined shots between the two teams, including four on goal for West Liberty. If it were not for the heroics of Notre Dame keeper Jordan Pasalaqua, there could have easily been a much different result. A heavy slugfest against Alderson Broaddus (1-4) was where Hilltopper fans truly witnessed the grit the Lady Toppers possessed, in which that grit ultimately resulted in one of the best wins the Hilltoppers have seen thus far. With Alderson Broaddus striking the
Photo Credits: Hilltopper Sports first very early in the tenth minute courtesy of Iris Jimenez, West Liberty found themselves in an early hole. However, they settled down, and bounced back with an incredible goal by Isabella Aperfine to tie the game at 1-1 coming out of the first half during the forty sixth minute. They continued the ferocious roll through the second half, and found themselves logging an incredible finish thanks to Kaelyn Oskin scoring a goal in the eighty sixth minute. West Liberty logged a total of sixteen shots, including six on goal, and found the one that counted most late in the game to improve in the conference standings. The game to follow was an unfortunate one for West Liberty, as they fell to Frostburg State University (4-2-1) by the score of 3-0. Montgomery did all she could to help her squad, logging ten saves, but unfortunately the team came up short. They bounced back in a terrific way against Fairmont State University (2-3) this past Saturday, winning by the final score of 2-1.
The Lady Toppers once again came out of the gate rather slow, conceding a goal to Fairmont’s Kiera Kuzinski in the fifteenth minute, but rallied back like they have shown to do once again. Oskin once again got the Toppers where they needed to be, striking for a goal during the twenty ninth minute. Photo Credits: Hilltopper Sports
With the Lady Hilltoppers now positioned in third in the MEC North Division with a 3-2-1 record, including 2-1-1 against conference opponents. Oskin and Aperfine have been leading the way for the Hilltoppers, both have logged two goals and an assist. Montgomery poses an impressive .96 goals against average, which includes five goals against on 45 shots and 17 saves including a shutout. The Hilltoppers will be back in action on Wednesday, Sept. 29 against Wheeling University at 5 p.m. on the campus of West Liberty. Make sure to come out and support the team!
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Exclusive Player Spotlight: Madison Clayton
ic, and I know that I can trust her to put the ball down in any situation.” This trust is likely built from her leadership. This is Clayton’s fifth year on the team and second year as captain, but even as a sophomore her leadership was seen, because according to Daub, Clayton took her under her wing when she was a freshman.
The West Liberty University (WLU) volleyball team has won over half of their games so far this season. Graduate student and captain, Madison Clayton, is a big part of this winning season so far. Clayton has led the team in kills against Tiffin (14), Millersville (14), Malone (11), Cal U (12), Daeman (9), Walsh (10), and East Stroudsburg (21 kills). Clayton has also led the team with blocks in just about eight of their matches so far. This gives her 145 kills, 47 block assists, 18 solo blocks and 9 serving aces which equates to about 195.5 points earned in the past 16 games. And on the weekend of Sept. 18, Clayton reached 300 career blocks. Clayton has been playing volleyball since she was in elementary school. She actually started out as a setter, but when the
coaches saw her approaching her now 6’5 height, they quickly transitioned her to a middle hitter. In her Roseville, Ohio high school, Clayton was awarded Ohio Division II All-District three times, All-Muskingum Valley League, and even MVL Defensive Player of the year in 2015. At West Liberty, Clayton has received All-MEC honorable mention in 2018 and 1st Team All-MEC in 2019 and 2020. In the abbreviated spring season of 2021, Clayton was ranked number two in the MEC and number 14 nationally with her .393 hitting percentage. Clayton has her undergraduate degree in athletic training and is currently pursuing her masters in sport leadership and coaching. Thanks to the extra COVID year granted to athletes, Clayton was able to play this year as a graduate student, and she said, “I would play forever if I could.”
Photo Credits: Hilltopper Sports
Photo Credits: Hilltopper Sports as she has really enjoyed her work as a volleyball coach over the summers. Clayton attributes a lot of her success in the sport to her strong work ethic and the amount of time she has spent in the sport. This makes her a “very calm and collected player,” said Coach Riley Schenk. To her teammates, these attributes help create a reliable player as well. Senior teammate MacKenzie Daub describes Clayton as the type of player “you can always count on to make those plays when the game is on the line.” One of Clayton’s setters, junior Kirsten Bogunovich, agrees and says, “[Clayton] is extremely dynam-
Current freshman teammate, Riley Cudnik, also enjoys Clayton’s leadership. Cudnik said that Clayton is “constantly keeping [the team] accountable and encouraging us to be better. [Clayton] is very supportive and always helps me with corrections to make and helpful hints to improve how I’m playing.” Clayton’s teammates are looking forward to potentially having her as a graduate assistant next year. Cudnik said that the team already appreciates Clayton as a teammate, and she does not foresee this changing if she were to be their graduate assistant. Bogunovich adds that Clayton “has so much knowledge and experience to offer,” it would make her a great graduate assistant for the team. That being said, West Liberty is likely to see, as Schenk called her, “the heartbeat to our program” next year as an effective graduate assistant. But until then, Clayton will continue to be a force on the court for her team, because as she so humbly says, “I play for them.”
This will unfortunately be her last year of eligibility. She is hoping to stay with the team for the 2022-2023 season as a graduate assistant. After that, she would like to pursue a career in coaching, Photo Credits: Hilltopper Sports
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West Liberty men’s and women’s cross country recap this year, as he is otherwise known as a heavy anchor for this Hilltopper squad. Adding to the team is senior Danah Phillips, a Second Team All-MEC selection last year. Rounding up the completion of the squad is Senior Zach Banks, senior Brice Childers, senior Zack Hamric, senior Michael Harriman, senior Walker Hashman, senior Kerwyn Marshall, senior Jared Ullom, junior Tavian Richardson, junior Brendan Sands, sophomore Jonathan Stout, sophomore Brody Cermak, freshman Holden Ammons, freshman Coby Newcomb, and freshman Nate Schneider.
After newfound successes during the shortened 2020-2021 campaigns, both the West Liberty University men’s and women’s cross country teams begin their seasons hungry for a Mountain East Conference championship, and rightfully so. The Lady Hilltoppers cross country squad as a whole, saw themselves finish fourth in the Mountain East Conference (MEC) championships. In the abbreviated 20202021 season, the women’s cross country team had success to start the season. The team placed second in the North Carolina Wesleyan Invitational, and third at the University of Charleston Invitational. West Liberty is now trailing the University of Charleston, Davis and Elkins and Concord University in the standings. Leading the charge for the Hilltoppers women’s cross country team is the MEC 2021, Runner of the Year, Hannah Kemp. Kemp has seen unbelieve success as a runner, so much so that she was not defeated last year in the meets she ran in. Kemp holds several WLU indoor track records in both the 3000 meter run and the mile Run. She also holds a trio of outdoor track records in 1500 meter run, 5000 meter run and 10000 meter run.
This season, the West Liberty women’s cross country has placed sixth in the Bethany Invitationals, twelfth in the Lock Haven Invitational, and still have the Carnegie Mellon Invitational before the Mountain East Conference Championships begin on Oct. 23 and NCAA Division II regionals on Nov. 6. For West Liberty men’s cross country, they also had a respectable finish in the Mountain East Conference Championships for the 2020-2021 season, placing fourth. Although WLU only trailed Charleston, Davis and Elkins, and Concord, there is much to be excited about
Photo Credits: Hilltopper Sports going into the bulk of this season. Thus far, West Liberty has finished first in the Bethany Invitationals, and fifth in the Lock Haven Invitational. On the men’s side, they have also found success. Just like the women’s team, the men have had individual successes as well, specifically through the likes of runner Philip White. White, the 2018 MEC Freshmen of the Year, has also earned two Mountain East Conference First Team cross country selections. He looks forward to hopefully adding a third
Following Kemp is a group of upperclassmen, including senior Jamie Fogle, senior Grace Henley. senior Emily Louk, junior Nichole Groseclose and junior Blake Hull.
To start the season, the men brought home first place at the Bethany Invitational. Harriman also saw an individual first place finish. In the Lock Haven Invitational, the team finished fifth and Harriman finished inside the top 20. For both the West Liberty men’s and women’s teams, this can certainly be seen as a statement year in terms of what they want to accomplish overall. With little chances to showcase themselves in regards to invitationals scheduled, it’s imperative every single chance given is taken advantage of to the best of their abilities. Although set up for the years to come with great youth, the upperclassmen leaders on each respective team look to cap off impressive careers in the black and gold, with the hopes of both sides bringing home a Mountain East Conference tournament title. Before both teams compete for championships, they will head to Pittsburgh, PA to participate in the Carnegie Mellon Invitational on Saturday, Oct. 9.
The team also has several underclassmen including sophomore Shiana Keene, Sophomore Savannah Moorehead, and Freshmen Madelyn Logan. Photo Credits: Hilltopper Sports
After that, the Mountain East Championships for both teams will take place miles away in Oglebay Park on Oct. 23, so make sure to show up and cheer on your Hilltoppers!
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WLU football downs Alderson Broaddus touchdown.
The West Liberty University (WLU) football team (22) sought to bounce back against West Virginia Wesleyan College (0-4) on Saturday, Sept. 25 after their 51-10 loss against number eight Notre Dame College (4-0). The Hilltoppers set the tone on early in this game. West Virginia Wesleyan did not move the chains on the opening drive. Wesleyan went for it on a fourth and three at the Wesleyan 32yard line, and the Hilltopper defense made a fourth down stop to set the offense up with great field position. The Hilltopper offense, on a fourth and three at the Wesleyan 25-yard line, went for it and the senior quarterback, Jack Allison hit Isaiah Robinson for a 25-yard touchdown to make it 6-0. The extra point from Owen Rozanc was good and less than four minutes into the game the Hilltoppers had a 7-0 lead. In the closing seconds of the first quarter, the Hilltoppers had a chance to extend the lead to 10-0, but the 22-yard field goal attempt was no good and Wesleyan was hanging on by a
Still a 7-0 game with a little over two minutes to go until the half, J’Aaire Prickett picked off West Virginia Wesleyan quarterback, Nathan Payne, and trotted to the endzone for a pick-six. Another Rozanc extra point extended the Hilltopper lead to 14-0 heading to the half. To open the second half, the Hilltopper offense had a seven-minute possession that resulted in a 27-yard field goal from Owen Rozanc. With under three minutes to go in the third quarter, West Virginia Wesleyan pinned the West Liberty offense within their own ten-yard line to start their drive. This however did not stop the Hilltopper offense. Allison hit Robinson again but this time on a curl route and Robinson blew past the West Virginia Wesleyan defense for a 77yard touchdown.
endzone by redshirt freshman tight end Jesse Collins for the touchdown and the Hilltoppers now led 31-0 with eight minutes left in the game. Another Hilltopper possession ran the clock out inside the two-minute warning and the Hilltopper defense took the team home finishing off the shutout 31-0 win. Allison completed 16 of his 23 passes for 229 yards and 2 touchdowns. On the ground, the Hilltoppers were led by Tyler Moler who gained 87 yards on 21 at-
tempts with a long of 11 yards. The receiving corps were led by Robinson who had three receptions for 118 yards and two touchdowns. His long was on the 77-yard touchdown. The Hilltopper offense gained a total of 371 yards. The West Virginia Wesleyan offense only gained 227 yards. The The WLU football team will be back home on Saturday, Oct. second against Glenville State College. The game which will be a hall of fame game at West Family Stadium will start at 1 p.m.
The Hilltop’s Athlete of the Week
~ Kirsten Bogunovich ~
The Hilltopper lead was now 24-0 with 18 seconds remaining in the third quarter. The West Liberty first possession in the fourth quarter, they looked to put the game out of reach. From the Wesleyan three, Allison scrambled and fumbled the football but was recovered in the Photo Credits: Hilltopper Sports
[Volleyball] - [Setter/Right Side] Year: Junior Hometown: Alliance, Ohio About Bogunovich: Bogunovich was named MEC Offensive Player of the Week. She amassed 158 assists in the process.
Photo Credits: Hilltoper Sports
