MONDAY
SEPTEMBER 14, 2015 VOLUME 105 ISSUE 12 www.UniversityStar.com
Defending the First Amendment since 1911
The Greek Issue
ADP xW GFB DZ DG ZTA AXD
ATW DTW KA KS WDF FKY FKT PKA PKF SAE Sx SN STG Qx AKA AFA DST KAY OYF FBS ZFB GREEK LIFE
AYL DXN KDx FIA SLD SIA SLB SDL LARA DIETRICH STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
The sisters of Sigma Delta Lambda sorority Sept. 3 in the LBJ Mall.
Multicultural Greek life picks up pace on campus By Exsar Arguello SENIOR NEWS REPORTER @Exsar_Misael
c
ampus Greek life was in full motion last week as fraternities and sororities flooded The Quad looking to recruit new members. In an attempt to inform students of what their organizations have to offer, the multicultural Greek chapters gathered in The Quad
Sept. 3 and played dance music and invited students passing by to participate in different games. “This has literally changed my life for the better,” said Benito Salazar, president of Sigma Lambda Beta and management senior. “I’ve found a home where I can socialize with people who understand my background and culture. This really allows you to be part of something that is bigger
than yourself.” The university offers a wide variety of multicultural Greek organizations allowing minorities to be involved in a fraternity or sorority associated with their ethnicity. Under the Multicultural Greek Council there are eight chapters minorities can join, said Bob Dudolski, assistant dean of students. Of those eight, two are fraternities, five are sororities and one is co-ed, he said.
GREEK LIFE
The Multicultural Greek Council was not specifically created for Hispanic fraternities and sororities, but at this stage all eight of the houses are Hispanic and Latino-based, Dudolski said. According to the Multicultural Greek Council, Sigma Lambda Beta is the fastest-growing minority fraternity in the nation, spanning across 100 schools in 28 years. Salazar joined Sigma
Q&A with Sophia Campos, Panhellenic Council president
By Mariah Simank LIFESTYLE EDITOR @MariahSimank
By Mariah Simank LIFESTYLE EDITOR @MariahSimank
Not all students are aware their Greek options extend beyond the two largest councils on campus. The University Star sat down with Emily Leon, Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) vice president of public relations and management senior, to learn about the organization’s unique approach to Greek life.
Many people appreciate Greek life, but few stop to ask themselves who is working behind the scenes to make things run so smoothly. The University Star sat down with Sophia Campos, Panhellenic Council president and electronic media senior, to discuss fall recruitment and everything that comes after.
ANTONIO REYES STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
women from other chapters. Our council is made up of women from each chapter. We have seven Panhellenic sororities on campus, so I get to hang out with other women, and we get to do collaborative events. It's been a really cool experience.
MS: How did you first get involved as an executive? SC: I've always been in-
F
facebook.com/ universitystar
t E
@UniversityStar youtube.com/user/ theuniversitystar
Go to university star.com
GREEK LIFE
Q&A with Chris Pringle, Interfraterntiy Council president By Mariah Simank LIFESTYLE EDITOR @MariahSimank
Many students at Texas State join Greek Life as a way to better their community and foster friendships that last long after they walk across the stage. The University Star had the opportunity to sit down with Chris Pringle, Interfraternity Council (IFC) president and management junior, to discuss his term and the future of the council’s 14 fraternities.
ANTONIO REYES STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Mariah Simank: How long have you served as president? Chris Pringle: I've been
president for a year now. Elections are every year around November and are based on candidates who meet certain qualifications.
MS: How would you say your term is going so far? CP: By the end of my term
we'll probably see a whole percent increase in Greek life here at Texas State. We've established ourselves as a credible council that gives back to the local community, and we are also establishing programs that help shed some light on Greek life and some of the good that we're doing here.
MS: Can we expect to see new fraternities in the near future? CP: We'll see about five fra-
ANTONIO REYES STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
ternities come to Texas State over the course of the next four and a half years. One of the new ones will be here this fall.Our expansion is important because it helps grow this entire Greek community.
We're really going to push this semester to get a vote to add a committee to look into possibly adding another chapter. I'm not positive it's going to happen, but that's one of our goals for this year. Also, my council has been working really hard to increase the number of women going through Panhellenic recruitment, and this year we actually saw about a 100-woman increase from the past two years going through recruitment.
MS: What are some of your duties as president? CP: I oversee the operations
MS: How did you get involved as an executive?
MS: What are some MS: How do you think changes that you've made MS: How would you say to Greek life being involved in Greek at Texas State? your term is going so far? life at Texas State will help SC: We've seen a lot of you after college? SC: It's really cool,
MS: What are some changes that you have made as IFC president? CP: We have developed
See LEON, Page 2
See CAMPOS, Page 2
See PRINGLE, Page 2
and people are recognizing
Mariah Simank: How long us, so it seems to be going rehave you served as vice presi- ally good. dent of public relations? MS: When will recruitment Emily Leon: I was elected in happen for your organization? May. The guy before me who had the chair graduated. So I EL: Recruitment starts day took over midterm, and our
one, first day of school, and the recruitment process and what we call “the hard process” is the next three weeks.
MS: How many organizations are within the MGC? MS: How would you say your EL: We have eight: five soterm is going so far? rorities, one coed, and two EL: It's really cool to be fraternities. brought into a team that's already so concise and knows what's going on. We've been pushing each other really hard and the MGC is growing. We're getting more interest
See MULTICULTURE, Page 2
GREEK LIFE
Q&A with Emily Leon, Multicultural Greek Council vice president of public relations
elections are in November. I'm just serving the partial term, kind of like a sit-in. After November I can run for reelection, but we'll see.
Lambda Beta when he was a freshman, and has worked his way up to president of the fraternity. “When I was a freshman, it was all about having fun and enjoying life, but now it’s much more than that,” Salazar said. “I’m a leader now, and as a leader, my main goal is to make sure everyone gets a degree and graduates.”
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Mariah Simank: How long have you served as president? Sophia Campos: I've
served as president since the spring of my junior year. I just started my senior year, so my term started in January and then it ends December. We do elections in November, and then the new president will start in January.
because I get to hang out with and work with
terested in how Greek life works. I think when you're in a sorority, you see how your sorority works with the executive board and everything, but you don't really see the big picture. I knew the past Panhellenic president, and she encouraged me to apply. I got to see that they get to go to a lot of conferences and network, and not just work to better their own chapter, but to better the whole community.
growth in the past two years, so what we're working on now is expansion.
of all 14 fraternities. I communicate with the Dean of Students office and anyone in LBJ who has any sort of duties in terms of meeting organizational needs. I also am the go-to person for all the chapter presidents, or chapters in general. Then I oversee all the operations for all the positions under me, to make sure that they're meeting their requirements as well.
a scholarship program that
2 | The University Star | Greek Issue | Monday, September 14, 2015
MULTICULTURE, from front Salazar said a lot of pride goes into his work to ensure the minorities he is responsible for graduate and “make something of themselves.” High standards and leadership expectations are the first priorities of the Multicultural Greek Council, Dodolski said. There are high academic standards and community service opportunities making this branch of Greek life successful, he said. “Not only is this a great résumé builder, but a great way to let yourself be a part of a community that allows you to strive in your school and your community,” Dodolski said.
Yahaira Castañon, president of Kappa Delta Chi and criminal justice senior, is a transfer student from a community college in Dallas. Castañon said the first thing she noticed when coming to Texas State were the sororities looking for new recruits. Kappa Delta Chi was added to Texas State on Oct. 4, 1998, and has over 3,500 members nationwide, according to the Multicultural Greek Council website “Coming from community college can be kind of scary, especially when you’re trying to make friends,” Castañon said. “Once I put myself out there, my
life completely changed and now I have friends who are like my family.” As president, Castañon said she wants to give other girls the opportunity to find a family like she did. Castañon is not alone in that sentiment. “I want other Hispanics to experience the brotherhood that I have found here with Sigma Lambda Beta,” Salazar said. “I would recommend joining a chapter to anyone looking to join Greek life. Be proud of your background and push yourself to be successful in college.”
LEON, from front
EL: I was a representative of my sorority and then I was the public relations chair in my own sorority. Then I just got interested and I got really involved. Then I applied and did a speech, and the board decided I would be the best fit for my current position. MS: What are some of your duties? EL: I run all the social me-
dia and do all of the publications, flyers, graphics—all of that for the council. I'm also in charge of relaying information the organizations give me. If they have an event, I'm supposed to sponsor them and help them promote it. I do a lot of promoting work and help with the website, Facebook pages, all of that kind of stuff.
COLLEGE SKI & BOARD WEEK breckenridge
Vail • Beaver Creek • Keystone • Arapahoe Basin
20 Mountains. 5 Resorts. 1 Price.
FROM ONLY
plus t/s
WWW.UBSKI.COM
1-800-SKI-WILD • 1-800-754-9453
LARA DIETRICH STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
The sisters of Kappa Delta Chi Sept. 3 in the Quad.
CAMPOS, from front
MS: What are some changes you've made to Greek life at Texas State? EL: We used to have a dif-
ferent process and approval system for flyers and publications. Now we just have a template that I've laid out that says, “Okay, this is what we can and can't say. This is what we can do.” We are also in the works of creating the new budget system.
EL: My favorite thing, I guess, would be the people in it, the events we post and just seeing people grow as leaders in their own. Texas State has a really different Greek life, you could say. We all get along, which is different than most campuses. The Greek life here—all the councils— they tend to work together to better Texas State, not just get at each other most of the time.
MS: What do you think MS: How do you think being involved in Greek life separates the MGC from will help you after college? other Greek organizations EL: It definitely has helped and councils on campus? me with leadership and has EL: We're definitely the opened my mind to so many opportunities, such as networking. I think it also kind of humbled me as a person. Community service is a big passion of all of ours in each fraternity and sorority. It’s not just required. It's something that I'm passionate about, and it's helped me change our community in a way. I think that has definitely changed how I think about a lot of things.
MS: What is your favorite thing about Texas State's Greek life?
newest council, and we are the smallest council by far. We have about 300 people in our council total with all the (organizations), which also creates a very intimate relationship. All our fraternities and sororities and our coed know each other very well. There is not an unfamiliar face. We get along, we work together, and I think a big thing with us that we try to keep promoting is that we’re family. We know each other. We work together. We're trying to do something different here.
SC: When I joined the sorority I got to be involved in different positions, and had a chance to see what I liked to do. It definitely built my confidence, because you have to speak in front of your entire chapter. It also helps with networking. I know I've gotten an internship because one of my sisters had an internship and she told me about it. Everyone just really has your back and the alumni also will refer you to internships for jobs. It helps you build your confidence.
SC: This year, I've seen so much Greek unity. It's really been amazing to work with the presidents of each sorority and see them bond. Just seeing them be unified together and not just go to their own chapter for advice really is awesome. I think that Greek life at Texas State is really moving in that direction where they're unified, and they're getting a lot better about hanging out with each other, and not just having competitions between each sorority.
MS: What is your favorite MS: What do you think sepathing about Texas State's rates Panhellenic sororities Greek life? from other Greek organizations
on campus? SC: When you join a so-
rority, you're joining a huge group of women. It's almost like 200 women, maybe, in each chapter. When you join that, not only is there a chapter here at Texas State for your sorority, but there's chapters all over the country in different schools. You have a national headquarters, and you have alumni chapters in every city, so you really feel like you're joining it for life. There's so many ways to get involved, even after your four years. I think what separates it is just the fact that you really have a family after college.
PRINGLE, from front enables the chapters to be more grade-focused. First and foremost, they are here to be Bobcats and graduate, so we want to make sure that we raise the retention level of members that are staying in chapters and meeting grade requirements.
relationship to get results. Going into a career, I will know how to meet standards and be able to work in teams. I can also utilize my ability to lead teams as well.
thing that goes on just past four years.
great relationship skills all across the board. You are always going to have to work with people and you are always going to have to have a working
get involved in Greek life come back to Texas State and they want to be donors, they want to be involved and they want to make sure that this is some-
proud Bobcats, and I think we instill that. The biggest task is just making sure that across the board, we hold our values true to how we operate.
MS: What do you think separates your council from other Greek organizations on MS: What would you say is campus? your favorite thing about Texas CP: We have four governing Greek councils, and we don't State's Greek life? MS: How do you think being operate too differently from CP: I think Greek life the other councils. I think, the involved in Greek life will help promotes leaders and they task that we have is making you after college? promote good Bobcats and sure that our men are looked CP: I think it's taught me alumni. I think people who at as leaders and looked at as
fels n u a Br w e in N
Giant
Heart o f America Shows
Carniva l
PLUS: PRCA Rodeo • Thu-Sat @ 7:30 p.m. PRCA Bull Riding • Sunday @ 2 p.m.
!
For tickets & more info, go to comalcountyfair.org
Monday, September 14, 2015 | The University Star | 3
SPORTS
UniversityStar.com
FOOTBALL
BECK TAKING NEXT STEPS TO INTEGRATE INTO TEAM By Quixem Ramirez SPORTS EDITOR @quixem
During the summer of third grade, Landon Beck woke up every morning to the same noise. Thud, thud, thud. It was his grandfather knocking at the door. Beck’s day began before the sun rose and wouldn’t end until much later. He did whatever his grandpa needed. Beck, who was nine at the time, joined his grandpa in manual labor, which included tending to cows and driving T-posts. It was just a normal facet of life for Beck, who grew up in Early, Texas, a small city in west-central Texas with a population of less than 3,000 people. “Whatever I needed to do, I had to do it all day with my grandpa,” Beck said. “I get the work ethic I have from my grandpa.” While Beck’s teammates give him some flak from growing up in a small town, he wouldn’t be where he is without his upbringing. When Beck would get in trouble as a child, his grandparents would search outside for a twig to work as a paddle. He credits his old-school lifestyle for making him into a person equipped for the grind of competing at the Division
then. It’s far less gritty and, comparatively, much more emphasis is placed on player safety. Landon Beck remembers a photo where his father, all 5 feet 7 inches and 180 pounds of him, was facing three offensive players at the same time. Landon Beck was immediately captivated with the idea of football and began playing at an early age to follow in his father’s footsteps. “He said it was just mean and dirty and blood everywhere,” Landon Beck said. “I just saw (the photo) and I saw the intensity. I don’t know how to explain it. I just wanted to be a part of that and show my dad that I can do that, too.” But Landon Beck had what his father did not—size. As a freshman, he is listed at 6-foot4, 245 lbs. Landon still wasn’t expecting any collegiate offers, much less at the Division I level. Playing at Early High School with a graduating senior class of 60-70 people doesn’t lend itself to much exposure from college coaches. And yet he received an offer from Texas State during his junior year. On a routine campus visit, Coach Dennis Franchione
Landon Beck has been working out with the team since June and July, which has kept him in game shape and allowed him extra time to grasp the playbook. Defensive
in the range. He’s a good fit inside.” The team has already integrated Landon Beck with the more experienced players in the defensive line. Landon Beck has passed the test of time. The first couple of months are the hardest, Franchione said, and other freshmen sometimes fail under the pressure.
Not him. “Some freshmen have a good week, a good 10 days,” Franchione said. “He’s done all the things and survived the test of time. Surviving the test of time is hard to do for some and he’s been able to do that.” Landon Beck still needs some work, specifically with moving his hands lower and fine-tuning his base to increase power. He
tackl e s Coach Kyle Tatum didn’t need much time to be a believer in Landon Beck’s ability.
“I’M JUST OUT HERE LIKE EVERY OTHER GUY JUST TRYING TO BE A PART OF THE TEAM AND WORK UP TO THE STANDARD THEY PUT ME IN.”
wants to explode off the ball at 100 percent. “We’re really excited about him and the direction that he’s heading,” Tatum said. “At the same time, he’s got a long way to go. He’s got to keep grinding on the little things playing in the trenches. I think he’s going to be a good player. He just needs to keep working.” “I’m just out here like every other guy just trying to be a part of the team and work up to the standards they put me in,” Beck said. The groundwork for Landon’s career is being created. The next step for Landon is to integrate himself into the team and its culture. Then he’ll focus on his role on the football field. “I am grateful to be a part of (this team),” Landon said. “I’m also held accountable and I’m going to hold myself accountable because there’s a standard on this team. I just want to be accepted as part of the team.”
—LANDON BECK, DEFENSIVE END
I level. “I guess I’m a country boy,” Beck said. “My grandparents and parents were really oldschool and traditional. I don’t know how to explain it—just country, country, country. I loved it. It was my life.” Beck was forced to grow up quickly because of his surroundings. He didn’t have the luxury of other kids in larger cities. The labor with his grandpa was a necessity. The groundwork for Beck’s football career began with the influence of his father, Kris Beck, who was an all-district linebacker in high school. Landon Beck wasn’t alive during his father’s high school football career, so he relived the memories vicariously through his dad’s stories. Kris Beck would talk about the intensity and the dirt and the meanness of football. Football has evolved since
called Landon Beck and his father into his office. “Coach Fran said, ‘Hey, we’d like to offer you,’” Landon Beck said. “I was with my dad and I was just speechless. So was he. Coach Fran let us get ahead up and said, ‘All right, y’all have a good day, the offer is still here. Call us anytime.’” “It’s crazy. I didn’t know I was going to get picked up or get offers,” he said. It’s no surprise that Landon Beck, freshman defensive tackle, has established himself as a potential contributor for the Bobcats’ defensive line. His maturity has been a talking point in coaching circles. Franchione said Landon Beck was the most mature freshman from this year’s class. “He’s come in practice with purpose and intensity,” Franchione said. “He pays very close attention. He’s in great shape.”
On his first day, Tatum remembers Landon Beck exploding after the snap and getting by the offensive lineman. “We were like, ‘Yeah, this kid can be something,’” Tatum said. “’We are just going to keep working with him.’” Landon Beck played linebacker in high school, which encouraged the coaching staff to utilize him as a defensive end. After a brief trial-and-error period, Landon Beck is moving to defensive tackle where he can better leverage his size and strength. Tatum said he already understands the concept of “ball get off,” which refers to his ability to pressure the quarterback as soon as the snap. “We feel like he’s going to do nothing but get bigger, faster and stronger,” Tatum said. “He’s a good prototype for a defensive tackle. He’s right
DARYL ONTIVEROS STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
We’re on campus, and ready to help you! UFCU Financial Center and ATMs on Texas State Campus UFCU Financial Center: Undergraduate Academic Center (UAC) UFCU ATMs: Bobcat Stadium - 4 ATMs Strahan Stadium (STRA) - 2 ATMs Student Recreational Center (SRC) Alkek Library (ALK)
Why UFCU? - On-campus UFCU Financial Center - Most ATMs on campus and in athletic venues – With free access to more than 300 ATMs around the Central Texas and Austin-area - Mobile Banking with Mobile Deposit for checks - Online Banking with Bill Pay and eStatements - Account to Account transfer from other financial institutions Visit UFCU.org for location details and more information.
Eat ‘em up, Cats!
See You at
The game Don’t forget to stop by our Booth at the game for a chance to win a $100 Gift Card!*
UFCU.org
(800) 252-8311
Federally insured by NCUA * Visit UFCU.org for official sweepstakes rules TX State See You Game 9-15.indd 1
9/8/15 10:59 AM
4 | The University Star | Monday, September 14, 2015
OPINIONS
UniversityStar.com
THE MAIN POINT
Students should think before committing to go Greek
G
reek life is an integral part of any college experience, but it may be more beneficial for students to feel out things before committing to the slew of organizations prowling for recruits. Unfortunately, many students feel in order to be part of something big on campus they have to join a Greek organization, specifically a Panhellenic one. Students may be surprised to know Panhellenic societies are not the end-all be-all for Greek organizations on campus. Before making a commitment, it is great to explore the vast array of options. Many new and continuing students are unaware of service organizations. These organizations are Greek sororities and fraternities whose primary purpose is community service. Service and professional fraternities and sororities are great alternatives to general organizations
aimed more towards social development and partying. Instead of worrying about picking up women or buying enough booze to last a lifetime, these members are dedicated only to serving and bettering communities. They give students a real look into philanthropy and being a positive part of the community. The most frequent complaint against social fraternities and sororities is the lack of diversity. These organizations seek out a specific look, a particular type of person and a precise demeanor and background. Essentially, they leave much to be desired in the variety department. If students want a truly immersive college experience, being hog-tied with people specifically chosen due to certain physical and mental qualities does not exactly lend itself to broadening horizons. Instead, students can join Greek organizations dedicated to multicultural-
AZALIE BANKS STAR ILLUSTRATOR
ism like those belonging to the Multicultural Greek Council. This gives students a real, more tangible college experience as well as one more in line with
the changing demographics of the country. Being surrounded by nothing but other relatively wealthy, blonde-haired white men or women is not
going to set students up for the reality of the workforce and society-at-large. This is college, and it is a time for people to find themselves. College
years serve as a transitional phase from being a child to becoming a fully formed adult. One of the most important things to remember is not to limit yourself. Greek organizations— specifically social and general ones—can limit not only individuality, but also a person’s view of how the world works. The world is not here to bend to the whims of a person because they have a few Greek letters behind their name. If students wish to join a Greek organization, they should look into the array that is offered—from religious orgs to honor societies and service groups. These are all just as Greek as any of the other general ones. The only difference is their code of ethics and primary purpose. Students would be wise to remember there is literally an organization that can cater to any and everyone, as well as accommodate their whims and beliefs accordingly.
The Main Point is the opinion of the newspaper’s editorial board. Columns are the opinions of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the full staff, Texas State University Student Media, the School of Journalism and Mass Communication or Texas State University.
GREEK LIFE
GREEK LIFE
Greek life a great option for students
Madison Teague OPINIONS COLUMNIST
@maddiebell_bell
G
reek organizations have been under heavy criticism in light of events that have left some sororities and fraternities appearing exclusive, perverse and even racist. However, Greek life recognizes these deplorable aspects, actively changes in order to fight stigmas and provides an environment where students can comfortably thrive. Greek life offers many great opportunities for students, especially for those looking for a close-knit group of friends. The fellowship provided by sororities and fraternities can help students transition into college by easing the stress of social interactions. Freshmen often do not arrive at Texas State with their friends from high school. However, joining a Greek organization can jumpstart the process by surrounding students with friendly, likeminded people. Having an active role in a sorority or fraternity can be a great résumé builder. Students with leadership positions within Greek organizations stand out to employers because the experience shows the individual has dedication and leadership skills. On top of building a résumé, students gain access to established alumni of their organization. These connections can be an important factor for students looking to graduate and find a decent job in a timely manner. Identifying and contacting alumni in respective career fields could help certain students gain vital information or even a position.
For students worried about the negative aspects of Greek life, there are many sororities and fraternities with strict antihazing standards. For example, Christian sororities and fraternities promote fellowship without any risk of humiliation or hazing. These inclusive Christian organizations forgo bids in order to welcome any who wish to join. Many nonChristian Greek organizations have pledged to end hazing in their chapters, and more join this cause every year. Frankly, Greek organizations do not get as much credit as they deserve. Each of these organizations have a minimum GPA requirement to encourage students to stay on top of their studies. However, Greek honor societies offer membership to any student with a high-ranking GPA and offer benefits without increasing social pressure. These organizations focus more on academics, rather than socializing or philanthropy. Involvement in Greek life can even improve graduation rates of students by 20 percent. Perhaps the most obvious benefit of joining a Greek organization is the experience in philanthropy. Philanthropy is a huge part of Greek life greatly benefitting the students involved as well as the communities they are serving. Fraternities and sororities work with local organizations in order to learn leadership skills and civic responsibility. Other campus organizations may offer social environments similar to that of Greek life, but few can match their efforts in philanthropy. For Greeks, overcoming negative stereotypes associated with their organizations is an unavoidable hurdle the community must cross. What students need to understand is the negative stigmas do not outweigh the great benefits Greek organizations provide to members and communities alike. Other organizations could learn a thing or two from the Greek organizations on campus.
Students should steer clear of Greek life
TALK IT
OUT GREEK LIFE
—Madison Teague is an English junior
The University Star Editor-in-Chief...........................................Kelsey Bradshaw, stareditor@txstate.edu Managing Editor.......................Imani McGarrell, starmanagingeditor@txstate.edu Letters................................................................................universitystar@txstate.edu News Editor....................................................Alexa Tavarez, starnews@txstate.edu Sports Editor.............................................Quixem Ramirez, starsports@txstate.edu Lifestyle Editor.........................................Mariah Simank, starlifestyle@txstate.edu Opinions Editor..........................................Brandon Sams, staropinion@txstate.edu Multimedia Editor......................................Preslie Cox, starmultimedia@txstate.edu Copy Desk Chief....................................Abby Marshall, starcopychief@txstate.edu
Sterling Wilmer OPINIONS COLUMNIST
@nycbornnraised
G
reek organizations are often underscored by attitudes of extreme elitism, stereotypical and discriminative selection of members and boastful expressions of sexist and sexually profane ideals towards women. Greek organizations were created to be philanthropic, driven and socially aware societies made of members who exemplify all of these traits, but it takes little cognition to realize this no longer the case. Many fraternities continue to act upon their alpha male mentalities by believing they are superior to everybody, desired by every female and should be worshiped. They encourage heterosexual male promiscuity and perpetuate a damaging rape culture. According to an Oct. 9 2013 CNN report, men who join fraternities are 300 percent more likely to rape. Meanwhile, women in sororities are 74 percent more likely to fall victim to rape. Some fraternities even have the nerve to boast about their disgusting intensions to the public, such as the Sigma Nu Fraternity at Old Dominion who hung signs degrading incoming freshmen girls. Thankfully, the university had enough backbone to step in and suspend this fraternity, but this is often not the case. Often times, major universities ignore these organizations and they get away with a slap on the wrist. According to a Huffington Post article, a woman released audio of a fraternity member from the
University of Central Florida exclaiming, “Let’s rape some bitches.” These are clearly not the men of good stature and moral character they portray themselves to be. These are men who have come together in order to promote destructive gender roles under the guise of brotherhood. While universities sit back and watch all this filth accumulate into mountains of issues spilling into their student body, these Greek organizations collect big bucks and recognition. This is seriously insulting. Greek organizations are bastions of conformity and the destruction of the individual. The loss of individuality is prevalent and the environment many of these fraternities and sororities create mold and reshape everything about members. It changes everything from their mindset, to appearance and even their moral values—or lack thereof. Destroying individuality and diversity is a common pastime of fraternities and sororities of all creeds. When it comes to recruiting, oftentimes guidelines for future members include similarities of socioeconomic standing, ethnicity, race and even body type. Granted, on rare occasions Greeks might have some oddballs sprinkled in, but the demographic of that organization will still predominantly be the ethnic group that established it. My Greek-bashing might seem spiteful or jealousydriven, but the point is to be an individual. Students are able to form lifelong bonds and make connections without Greek life. Risking a reputation or carrying someone else’s bad badge is not worth the hefty note students pay to join Greek organizations. If Bobcats must join, they should make sure the name they carry and the reputation they bear is one of true class, valor and intellect— not misogyny, racism and idiocy. —Sterling Wilmer is a sophomore psychology major
601 University Drive Trinity Building, Room 101 San Marcos, TX 78666
Phone: (512) 245-3487 Fax: (512) 245-3708
Design & Web Editor...............................Lauren Huston, stardesign@txstate.edu Assistant News Editor............................Anna Herod, starasstnews@txstate.edu Account Executive............................................Hanna Katz, starad2@txstate.edu Account Executive.................................Morgan Knowles, starad4@txstate.edu Account Executive..........................Angelica M. Espinoza, starad5@txstate.edu Media Specialist.......................................... Chris Salazar, c.salazar@txstate.edu Advertising Coordinator...............................Kelsey Nuckolls, kjn16@txstate.edu Publications Coordinator........................................Linda Allen, la06@txstate.edu Publications Director...........................Bob Bajackson, stardirector@txstate.edu
The University Star is the student newspaper of Texas State University and is published every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of the spring and fall and every other Wednesday in the summer semesters. It is distributed on campus and throughout San Marcos at 8 a.m. on publication days with a distribution of 6,000. Printing and distribution is by the New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung. Copyright Monday, September 14, 2015. All copy, photographs and graphics appearing in The University Star are the exclusive property of The University Star and may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the editor in chief. The first five issues of each edition of the paper are free. Additional copies of the paper can be purchased at 50¢ per copy. Contact The University Star office at (512) 245-3487 to purchase additional copies.
Visit The Star at www.UniversityStar.com
Monday, September 14, 2015 | The University Star | 5
NEWS
UniversityStar.com
UNIVERSITY
Dining halls implement portion control in response to FDA protocol By Elton Kulak SPECIAL TO THE STAR @eltonkulak
Harris and Commons dining halls are serving smaller portion sizes in response to a change in the Food and Drug Administration’s protocol. In an effort to meet the FDA’s expectations, Chartwells is in the process of implementing portion control in buffet-style dining halls and nutrition information displays in the Den and the Lair, said Amanda Sher-
man, director of marketing for Chartwells. According to the FDA, the updated regulations are designed to give consumers the opportunity to be informed about what they’re eating. The FDA guidelines require the food service industry, by January 2017, to place calorie and nutrition information on their products. The guidelines were originally implemented last year. “We’ve been training all of our cooks to use correct portion sizes, so students know
exactly what they’re getting,” Sherman said. Richard Yennerell, senior executive chef at Harris dining hall, said the new guidelines will benefit the university and its students. The policies will help combat food waste, make wait times shorter and create a need for additional staff to be hired. “We see it as a real convenience for the guests coming in,” Yennerell said. Chefs at Commons and Harris intend to use the policies to conduct an economic
analysis to find out how the dining halls are doing in terms of supply and demand, Yennerell said. He said chefs give reports at the end of each day to see what and how much students are eating. Based on the data, an unpopular serving will likely be pulled off the menu and replaced with something else. Implementation of portion control in the dining halls has evoked mixed emotions from students. “(The portion control is) very annoying,” said Valerie
UNIVERSITY
Amadi, accounting senior. “I got like five pieces of pasta. Two spoonfuls and I’m back in line.” Chartwells will face repercussions if it doesn’t comply with the FDA regulations, Yennerell said. Steven Granados, director of marketing and guest experience for Chartwells, said there is an audit process to ascertain whether or not food service providers abide by the FDA’s rules. Yennerell said secret shoppers are occasionally sent by
the FDA to see if the staff is using correct procedures, in compliance with the new regulations. If a dining hall fails the audit, the director is informed and a follow-up is scheduled. The audits also check for measures like allergy control and nutrition information, he said. “The goal isn’t to cheapen service,” Yennerell said. “You can’t put twice as much for one student as opposed to another.”
MEMORIAL DAY FLOOD
University website to undergo renovations, Repair, rebuilding costs of Memorial Day flood mobile compatibility updates continue to climb By Autumn Wright SPECIAL TO THE STAR @wrightautumn
Texas State is redesigning its university website to become more modern and efficient for its virtual visitors. Officials are updating the site for the first time in six years. Updates will include improvements for mobile use and people with sight impairments. The Gato template is a content management system allowing amateur web publishers to create functional, appealing websites without needing design or development knowledge. Texas State’s homepage
“
gets around 1.2 million views every month, half of which are first-time views, said Michael Edelstone, head web designer for the Gato template. For this reason, it is important for Texas State to make a good impression online. “For the Gato editors, there’s going to be a lot of functionality as well, but still be easy to manage,” Edelstone said. “It’s going to be responsive and mobilefriendly, 100 percent.” The webpage will be more responsive to the browser by adjusting itself to fit whichever size screen a phone, computer or tablet may have, he said.
Feedback groups were formed in March to offer suggestions regarding the efficiency of the template, said James Buratti, webmaster of the educational technology center. Buratti said almost every university department uses Gato to edit information and add photo and video components on their website. “It’s as easy to use as the web content can be,” he said. Edelstone said most departments will hire an administrative assistant or student to edit the webpage content. “They all have their website. They know their content best. What we do is we design the skin around it,” Edelstone said.
Valerie Anderson, administrative assistant to the Faculty Senate, said knowing HTML coding is helpful but not required with the Gato. “It’s easy, very straightforward, like Microsoft Word,” Anderson said. Edelstone said designers are following federal and state guidelines to enhance the virtual experience for people with sight impairments. He said improvements include sharp color contrasts and a consistent layout. “We’re going to strive to meet the strictest standards,” Edelstone said. He said as of right now, a date has yet to be set for a trial run of the new website.
It’s easy, very straightforward, like Microsoft Word.” —VALERIE ANDERSON, ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT TO THE FACULT SENATE
UNIVERSITY
Campus carry task force starts preliminary process By Darcy Sprague SENIOR NEWS REPORTER @darcy_days
A campus carry task force is transitioning into the information-gathering process to prepare for the implementation of new gun legislation. The task force, led by Vicki Brittain, will draft policies and guidelines regarding the implementation of campus carry next fall. President Denise Trauth will review the policies before taking them to the Board of Regents. Trauth has asked the task force to submit the policies by spring break.
The task force will feature subcommittees to consider specific issues and work to represent different groups. One of the subcommittees will represent students. Joanne Smith, vice president for student affairs, Kathlyn Dailey, director of the counseling center and Lauren Stotler, student body president, will be on the subcommittee representing the students. The task force meeting will not be open for the public or media, said Michel Conroy, faculty senate chair. The policy details will not be available until the plan is finished.
Conroy said a lot of the task force’s job will be to listen to the community, faculty, students and alumni and figure out how best to accommodate their concerns, if the legislation allows it. “We are thrown in to a reactive position because of the legislation,” said Lynn Ledbetter, fine arts senator. Conroy said the task force will consider which buildings, floors or rooms can become gun-free zones under the legislation. Places such as the child development building might become gun-free zones due to provisions in the bill.
By Darcy Sprague SENIOR NEWS REPORTER @darcy_days
Four months after the Memorial Day weekend flooding, San Marcos and Hays County are still calculating the monetary cost from repairing and rebuilding flood-stricken areas of the community. The city and county suffered damage to infrastructure, buildings, parks and other public property. An estimate released by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) June 22 predicted the cost of public assistance, including bridge and road repairs, will be $33 million. Laureen Chernow, Hays County media representative, said it could take several years to finish repairing damage caused by the flood. Chernow said the final assessments have yet to be determined because the damage could not be fully evaluated until the floodwaters were more receded than they were at the time of the estimate. Trey Hatt, media specialist for the City of San Marcos, said Fire Station 5 sustained significant damage after it was flooded with several feet of water. Hatt said city officials
hope to have the station fully functional by next month. The county lost two bridges, including one on Post Road and one on Fischer Store Road, Chernow said. The Post Road bridge is still undergoing repairs while the one on Fischer was completely destroyed. More than 10 low water crossings have been reported as damaged or destroyed by the flood, Chernow said. Five Mile Dam remains closed due to damages. City officials had to remove debris from several public parks because the wreckage was unsafe for visitors, Hatt said. He said the Soccer Complex at Five Mile Dam is in the process of being repaired and six police patrol cars and a fire truck were lost to the floodwaters. FEMA will reimburse the county for up to 75 percent of costs stemming from the flood since the region was declared a disaster area, Chernow said. The county’s emergency account will fund the remaining balance. “We will definitely be seeking that funding,” Chernow said. Hatt said the city is still trying to gather more information to determine what other costs will be a result of the flood.
6 | The University Star | Lifestyle | Monday, September 14, 2015
FOOD
Finding the perfect cup of joe in San Marcos By Anna Herod ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR @annaleemurphy
Instant human! Just add coffee. Whether you call it an unhealthy dependence or a harmless indulgence, this caffeine-coated slogan is the mantra for countless college students. College towns often have an abundance of coffeehouses and San Marcos is no exception. With such a broad selection of coffee destinations to choose from, San Martians can confidently navigate their way around the coffee scene by considering what some of the top shops have to offer. Here are my top picks for where to find the best brew in town.
Starbucks on campus, LBJ Student Center and Undergraduate Academic Center (UAC) Cafe locations Maddy Brooker, elementary education sophomore, said there are a few things to consider when trying to decide which Starbucks to go to on campus. “Although the UAC Starbucks normally has much shorter lines, their iced coffee is watered-down way too often,” Brooker said. “The quality of their iced coffee is never consistent, but the espresso drinks seem to always be up to par.” Brooker said she prefers to buy her caffeinated beverages from the Starbucks located in the student center because their quality consistently sits above the UAC. “If you love espresso drinks or tea, then the UAC Starbucks is the place to go just because of the shorter lines,” Brooker said. “But when it comes to iced coffee, I like reliability.”
Wake the Dead Wake the Dead is a favorite among San Marcos natives and Texas State students alike. The extensive menu is complimented by a red-andblack color palette and Halloween-esque decor. Although the main room is equipped with a stage for local entertainment, those looking for a more laidback environment can find solace in the study, where students and locals often get their work done over their favorite cup of joe. Bill Cunningham, San Marcos resident and Texas State alumnus, said Wake the Dead is one of his favorite coffee spots in the city. Cunningham said the location makes the coffeehouse a convenient choice, but the atmosphere is what keeps him coming back. The coffeehouse hosts poetry readings, open-mic nights and displays artwork created by local talent. “It’s a place where you can meet a lot of different people,” Cunningham said. “At a lot of the other coffee shops people are just rushing in to get their coffee, but (Wake the Dead) is a place where strangers talk to strangers and you get some good discussions going.” Cunningham said he frequents Wake the Dead so often he has become friends with the baristas. “It’s become kind of a home place for me,” Cunningham said. Cunningham said he was feeling adventurous during one visit and one of the baristas created a “summertime drink” specifically for him. “The baristas are all very knowledgeable,” Cunningham said. “They can whip up just about anything or create something of their own for you if you’re feeling experimental.”
Stellar Cafe This 1920s-themed coffee shop is located in the heart of San Marcos. Its downtown location places it on the edge of campus, which allows it to serve as a hub for students and social locals looking to get their caffeine fix. In addition to vintage coffee ads hanging on the walls, Stellar Cafe also further emulates a flapper-era theme by providing coffee beverages donning clever names such as the “Bootleg Betty” and the “Cat’s Meow.” Haley Hardy, Stellar Cafe employee and social work junior, said she decided to work at the coffee shop after being a loyal customer for two years. “I love (Stellar Cafe) because everything from the coffee names and the style to the music generally reflects the ‘20s theme and creates a great atmosphere,” Hardy said. Hardy said the “Lavender Mocha” and “Coconut Oil Mocha” are unconventional options fairly unique to Stellar Cafe. The two beverages are among the coffeehouse’s two most popular drinks, she said. Aimée Bramlett, frequent customer, said she visits San Marcos often and always makes a point to pay a visit to the coffeehouse. “My favorite drink from here is the Lavender Mocha because it satisfies my caffeine craving and tastes like a flower at the same time,” Bramlett said. “I go coffeehouse-hopping all the time and not many places offer lavender-infused drinks.” Bramlett said Stellar Cafe’s environment is conducive to a variety of social gatherings. “I’ve come here in the mornings before for a quiet, laidback Bible study, but then I’ve also come in the evenings to drink coffee with a big group of friends,” Bramlett said. “The noise level is moderate enough to where you can really come here to drink coffee and do whatever you feel like doing.”
Nico Chergotis brews coffee Sept. 8 at Stellar Cafe.
BEN KAILING STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
UNIVERSITY
Interior design program gains re-accreditation By Louis Zylka LIFESTYLE REPORTER @OrinZylka
Texas State’s interior design program was recently evaluated and reaccredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA). The achievement comes after a demanding two-year self-assessment and a threeday visit from a team of experts and professors from the accreditation committee. Peter Dedek, associate professor at the School of Family & Consumer Sciences, said the organization visits the interior design program every six years to evaluate its standards. Dedek said being reaccredited is a huge advantage for the program and its stu-
dents. “The accreditation is really important because it shows perspective students and perspective faculty that the program meets national standards,” Dedek said. “When graduates go to the workplace, they will have the skills and knowledge necessary to begin working as professionals.” Dedek said the evaluations from the CIDA reflect directly on teachers and their students. He said this year’s reaccreditation was rare. “The accreditation’s head coordinator said she has never seen a program be reaccredited without a significant weakness to address,” Dedek said. “So we are proud of that. We were
able to get a shining review from the crediting agency.” Caroline Hill, associate professor at the School of Family & Consumer Sciences, said the evaluation includes a three-day visit from three members of the CIDA. After the visit, Hill said the committee writes a report that examines the curriculum and student representation and determines any accreditation. “They spend a good two days going through all of our work,” Hill said. “Then they interview students, faculty, the school director, the dean and the provost.” Asha Hegde, associate professor at the School of Family & Consumer Sciences, said the program orga-
nized a display that brought together all of the work students had completed since the committee’s last visit. She said it was the faculty’s responsibility to retrieve, store and document student work that best represented the university. “It was a very difficult task,” Hegde said. “The last three years was where we really started documenting.” Hill said accreditation is important because it allows the university to provide students with the best education. “There are some programs that are philosophical in nature,” Hill said. “Our program beats to see our students get their dream jobs.” Dedek said Texas State
will look at CIDA’s published standards for future evaluations to see if their curriculum is qualified. The program will also hire faculty members who meet the credentials to teach interior design, Dedek said. Hegde said students from states with general licensing requirements would be limited in their profession if they fail to graduate from a credited program. This places pressure on the university to maintain the requirements. “(Our) profession takes care of the health and safety of the individual,” Hegde said. “And (people) want to know somebody who is educated and does interior designing.” Dedek said in about four years the program will start
It’s good medicine! A Nice Place to Live
Lots available for lease for manufactured homes. Our lots did not flood! Caldwell County / San Marcos CISD www.pecanplantationtx.com
512-357-6111
preparing for another reaccreditation in 2021. Members of the program plan to create a report that examines two years of students’ work, he said. “We gather up two years’ worth of student work,” Dedek said. “We will select the work best representative of what the different courses have been producing and display it all in the program area.” Hegde said the program has big dreams for each student. “We want our students to go to international firms and nationally ranked firms everywhere,” Hegde said. “We’re beginning to see (our students’) confidence blossom, so we are beginning to see big things happen.”
Monday, September 14, 2015 | Lifestyle | The University Star | 7
RECREATION
Harry Potter becomes reality at Texas State said he wasn’t a huge Harry Potter fan before joining the team four years ago. “I only read one book, In a place where flying and the movies were never a broomsticks and talking huge deal to me, but I went paintings are the norm, a to the first practices and saw group of students are bringhow close they were and ing the magical world of that drew me in and kept me Harry Potter to Texas State. on the team,” Reyes said. Quidditch, a fictional Reyes said the game has sport played on broomsticks recently become one of the by characters in the popular fastest-growing sports on series, has been a reality at college campuses. Texas State for four years. “Almost every American Since its inception, the team university has a Quidditch has made their mark across team, and I know Canada the nation. also has one,” Reyes said. Daniel DeRuiter, team “This is a huge sport around president and exercise the world.” sports science senior, said The team’s sorting proTexas State has become one cess separates it from other of the most recognized colprograms, Reyes said. legiate Quidditch programs “In the first meetings, we LESLY DE LEON STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER in the country. have a personality quiz and He said the originality of we have a hat and someone During a Quidditch practice Sept. 8 at Lion’s Club field, Justin Paris, philosophy freshman, chases after the game separates it from that speaks like the hat in Tyrell Williams, exercise sports science senior, who holds the Quaffle. other sports. the movie,” Reyes said. “We “We are a big thing,” Decount the points, and will Ruiter said. “No other sport sort you into a house, which has a team carrying a broom everyone enjoys very much.” between their legs.” Reyes said the Quidditch DeRuiter said members team is unique from any new and old are putting in a other team he has been a Psychiatric tech PRN PPD lot of hours to perfect their part of. positions available at Comhiring waitress staff. Conskills. “I have played other “We want to win the sports, but nothing is like munity Clinical Research, a tact Eva @ 512-800-3289. 7551 Metro Center Drive championship,” DeRuiter Quidditch. It is a very physi- small inpatient psychiatric said. “We have gotten so cal game, but you can use research unit. Starting at PPD Austin, TX 78744 close and have won second tactics and be versatile,” 12.50/hr. Flexible schedplace before.” Reyes said. ules. Looking for bright, FOOD / NUTRITION PPD is an equal opporenthusiastic, responsible SERVICES ASSISTANTS tunity employer (EOE) people. Position provides that will not discriminate great introduction into psy- PPD, a leading global in its employment pracchiatry, medical research, provider of discovery and tices due to an applicant’s clinic-based work. Please development resources for race, color, religion, sex, contact Francine at 512pharmaceutical and bionational origin, and veteran 597-6701, or via email, technology companies, has or disability status by emFrancine.rocha@communi- openings for per diem (as bracing diversity and the tyclinical.com needed) FOOD/NUTRIresponsibilities of corporate TION SERVICES AScitizenship in our comHELP WANTED SISTANTS. This position munities. PPD values our serves meals, assists with former military & transiNeeding servers for the food preparation, and pertioning service member’s drink stands at the Comal forms cleaning duties. A.M. service. County Fair & Rodeo. and P.M. shifts available. Sept. 23 – 27. TABC SEMEN DONORS required. High school diploma reNEEDED! $150 per quired. One year of related specimen, healthy college Apply online at comalexperience preferred. students age 18-39. For countyfair.org or stop by application go to www. If interested, please apply beaspermdonor.com LESLY DE LEON STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER the Fair Office to pick up an application. on-line at www.ppdi.com/ Robert Guerra, concrete industry management sophomore, attempts to take the Quaffle from Ethan Hultgren, exercise and sports science junior on Sept. 8 at Lion’s Club field. MARCOS ITALIAN RES- careers. TAURANT By Valeria Flores SPECIAL TO THE STAR @vanat25
DeRuiter said the team, which was founded with seven members in 2011, is now reviewing applications from 200 interested freshmen. “I want to definitely keep all members,” DeRuiter said. “I want us to be more than just a sport and get out and do things like volunteer work and homecoming.” Elizabeth Clementi, tournament director and accounting graduate student, said the team has come a long way since its inception. “They started the meetings and practices in a small house, and from there it started growing rapidly,” Clementi said. The team usually takes around 60 members to each tournament, Clementi said. “We have played with every big school in Texas, against at least 62 teams,” Clementi said. The team is excited to prepare for its first tournament at the end of the month, she said. “We have tournaments Sept. 20 and 21, and the Diamond Cup is coming up on Nov. 14,” Clementi said. “This is a year-long sport, so we have to start preparing.” Eric Reyes, public relations officer and exercise sports science sophomore,
CLASSIFIEDS
It’s good medicine!
AGE
COMPENSATION
Men and Postmenopausal or Surgically Sterile Up to $1800 Women 21 to 50
Men and Women 18 to 55
Men and Women 18 to 55
Men and Women 18 to 55
REQUIREMENTS
TIMELINE
Healthy & Non-Smoking BMI 23 - 30
Thu. 9/17 - Mon. 9/21 Outpatient Visit: 9/25
Up to $3000
Healthy & Non-Smoking BMI 18 - 30 Weigh 110 - 220 lbs.
Thu. 9/24 - Mon. 9/28 Thu. 10/1 - Mon. 10/5
Up to $2000
Healthy & Non-Smoking BMI 20 - 32 Weigh at least 110 lbs.
Wed. 9/30 - Sun. 10/4 Outpatient Visit: 10/5
Up to $3000
Healthy & Non-Smoking BMI 18 - 30 Weigh 110 - 220 lbs.
Thu. 10/1- Mon. 10/5 Thu. 10/8 - Mon. 10/12
It makes you smarter.
8 | The University Star | Advertisement | Monday, September 14, 2015
Not happy with your housing?
SANCTUARY LOFTS
IMMEDIATE MOVE-IN AVAILABLE
Save up to $300 with reduced fees
BISHOPS SQUARE
THE RETREAT
VISTAS SAN MARCOS
OFFICIAL STUDENT HOUSING PARTNER OF TEXAS STATE ATHLETICS
"QQMZPOMJOFUPEBZBU
AMERICANCAMPUS.COM FORMERLY SMSTUDENTHOUSING.COM
College communities to fit your lifestyle, and your budget. All just steps to campus. t(SFBUMPDBUJPOTUPDBNQVT t1SJWBUFCFESPPNTCBUISPPNTBWBJMBCMF t'VMMZGVSOJTIFEBQBSUNFOUT townhomes & cottages t"NFOJUJFTGPSBGJUIFBMUIZMJGFTUZMF t"DBEFNJDBMMZPSJFOUFEFOWJSPONFOUT t*OEJWJEVBMMJBCJMJUZMFBTFT t3PPNNBUFNBUDIJOHBWBJMBCMF
PROUD MEMBER OF ACT ALLY
Fees & amenities subject to change. While supplies last. Limited time only. See office for details.
