OCTOBER 2016
Wildcats walk for cancer awareness Bethune-Cookman University faculty, staff and students took to the streets recently for the annual Odessa Chambliss Ovarian Cancer Awareness Walk/ Run. College trustee Lucille O’Neal, who helped usher in the event named in honor of her mother, also took part in the Sept. 19 event in downtown Daytona Beach. Walkers gathered in Riverfront Park, along Beach Street, before heading across the International Speedway Boulevard Bridge. See more photos on page 11
photo by Fidline Excat
Growing student population forces campus food service to make changes By Augustinas Navickas Staff Writer Record student enrollment this fall bought with it many changes including a reversal of a policy against allowing students to take food from the cafeteria. The change has been a hot topic among students but it comes at a cost to the environment as the boxes create more trash on campus. B-CU’s cafeteria has a seating capacity of about 350 students, which worked when there were roughly 1,800 students living on campus. The opening of the new dorms and the addition of 1,200 students pushed the resident population to 3,000, according to school officials. Sodexo, the campus food service company, reversed its policy and started offering plastic foam to-go boxes so students could take their meals with them. The university also attempted to solve the problem by creating an alternative location for students to eat, namely The Wildcat Den located in the Center for Civic Engagement. Now, the company is trying to address the trash situation by encouraging students to give up the plastic foam in favor of a reusable container. Sodexo launched an online petition for “EcoTakeout” boxes. A university wide email was sent Sept. 7 informing students that the company continued on page 4
College administrator cherishes her role as school board chairperson By Khadejah Folmar Staff Writer Ida D. Wright’s role as an educator extends far beyond the boundaries of Bethune-Cookman University where she serves as dean of the college of business and entrepreneurship. Three years ago, Wright was elected to the Volusia County School Board and this summer she was reelected. The Daytona Beach native currently serves as chairman of the board. When asked what she thought was the board’s greatest achievement during her first term, she listed increased graduation rates and the improvements in the school district’s grade from a “C” to a “B” for two consecutive years on state tests.
OPINION SEE PAGE 2
“We also settled a three-year deal with all district employees,” Wright said in a recent interview. The starting pay for teacher increased to $37,000 from $34,000 in the last two years. Prior to her first election, she was one of a small group of area mothers looking into ways to implement “Parent University,” a free program aimed at helping families to navigate the academic life of children in kindergarten through 12th grade in Volusia County. “Classes focus on academic and support programs in Volusia County Public Schools, effective strategies families can use to help every child succeed, and ways to advocate for the resources necessary for our public schools, Wright said in a follow-up email. Some classes are also offered in Spanish.
NEWS SEE PAGE 3
group of moms in executing the plan to launch Volusia County’s program. Because it is parent driven, I removed myself from the planning and implementation process upon election.” Wright, who has been employed at the university for 21 years, worked closely with university President Edison O. Jackson to institution’s dual enrollment for Volusia County students.
Wright
Participants will attend a general session followed by two classes. Class topics include such things as middle school tips for success and tips on how to choose a high school for your child. “During my first race, I met with the three mothers that successfully launched this Parent University in Hillsborough and Orange Counties,” Wright said. “These ladies assisted a
Wright said her goals for this term are to continue supporting policies and programs that increase the business community’s involvement and support in the school system. One way, she said, might be with career academies at both the high school and middle school level. She also said she will continue to seek ways to provide competitive continued on page 10
FEATURES
SPORTS
SPECIAL
PHOTOS
SEE PAGE 7
SEE PAGE 8-9
SEE PAGE 10-11
SEE PAGE 12
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OPINION
OCTOBER 2016
VOICE OF THE WILDCATS
Is Donald Trump an advocate for violence?
The Voice of the Wildcats is written, edited and published by members of the By Petra Merrick student body at Bethune- Voice Editor Cookman University. The Voice of the Wildcats is published monthly during the fall and spring semesters. All opinions are solely those of the author.
Petra Merrick
Editor-in-Chief Layout/Copy Editor Jaimee Cobb
Sports Writer
Dominique Williams
Staff Photographers
Merrick You would think that Donald Trump would be tired by now of making the news for acting out or encouraging others to do so. But no, no such luck.
Durell Young In recent month Trump’s campaign Gino Cyrus has garnered media attention because Ehbonny DaCruzDessin his supporters have used violence against silent protestors.
Staff Writers
Augustinas Navickas Kalen Murphy Yamil Turner Charla McCord Khadejah Folmar
Correspondent Cortez West
Dr. Elsie Wanjohi Publication Director Valerie Whitney Voice Adviser PUBLICATION MEMBERSHIP The Voice of the Wildcats is a member of the College Media Advisors Association (CMA) and National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ). ADVERTISER MEMBERSHIP
During a Trump rally in Fayetteville, North Carolina, protestor Donovan Williams was seated just behind the press wearing a shirt that said “IDK NOT TRUMP THO 2016” when security escorted him out for no apparent reason, according to Atlanta.com. Trump later encouraged the crowd to shout about the protestor, using bigoted behavior. he said things like “see in the good old days this didn’t use to happen, because we use to treat them roughly.” “We’ve become weak,” he added.
The man was arrested and charges were pressed against him. He told a television reporter on camera that “next time I’ll have to kill him,” referring to the African American. Who would vote for a man who advocates racism and violence? I cannot believe how many supporters Trump has gained since he announced his candidacy for presidency in June 2015. Meanwhile, Trump was forced to cancel his rally in Chicago because of his supporters were fighting protestors. This has become ridiculous and it shows where America is heading. We are reverting back to the 1950s! It’s time to wake up people and realize that racism has not disappeared. It does exist and it is right in front of our faces. If this man wins the presidency who knows what will happen. We could end up having bathrooms with “colored only “ and “white only” signs above the
entrances. THAT IS WHY YOUR VOICE AND YOUR VOTE MATTERS! In November exercise the right you gained through the sacrifice of people like the Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. He and other advocates died so you and I can help make a difference. We can do this.
Donald Trump – Caricature by DonkeyHotey (2016) Photo Attribution by PhotosForClass. com
The Conversation: Black Lives Matter/All Lives Matter Movement By Yamil Turner Feature Writer The School of Religion recently inaugurated a new speaking series that it has labeled “The Conversation.” The first topic was the Black Lives Matter movement. And, for all the talking that took place, in the aftermath the panel discussion left some people feeling many different ways--informed, confused, and even misguided. Add me to that list.
The Voice of the Wildcats Those at the table included a roster subscribes of creditable panelist: Mike Chitwood, to the 360 Youth Daytona Beach police chief and newly
elected sheriff of Volusia County; LaVon Send Correspondence to: Bracy, a voting rights activist; the Rev. Derrick Harris, president of the Daytona Editor The VOICE, Fine Arts Black Clergy Alliance; Mayor Derrick Henry of Daytona Beach; and Cynthia Building Room 124 Slater, president of the Daytona Beach 640 Dr. Mary McLeod NAACP branch.
Bethune Blvd. Daytona Beach, FL 32114 Phone: (386) 481-2707 Fax: (386) 481-2701 voiceofthewildcats@gmail. com
In addition to that incident, a video that gained a lot of attention was one of a young African American male walking up the steps after being escorted out by officers because of protesting. An elderly white man punched the protestor while he walking up the stairs and instead of the officers jumping on the man who threw the punch, they confronted the victim.
The discussion served as an effort to increase awareness of engagement in our community. In coming presentations, the series hopes to tackle other topics such as community policing, immigration and international terror-
ism. The initial conversation on Sept. 14 was very informative yet lacking in my opinion. First, it was set up as a panel discussion so the audience wasn’t allowed the opportunity to communicate with the members of the panel until the end. One item that was stressed was the need for us, namely students, to continue to vote to have a say-so within the community. One speaker even suggested that we had enough votes on campus to elect a student to the city commission and perhaps as mayor. Several people spoke about the color line in America as it related to the growing number of blacks in the AfricanAmerican community that have been gunned down by police. Chitwood said police reform might be one way to help alleviate the problem between the community and African Americans. This first “Conversation” left me feeling empty. I propose to have another similar conversation between the student body and panelist, one that would allow for more engagement.
A praise team opened the program with song.
The failure to find a workable solution to these issues does not serve us well. And until we are properly informed and take action, we will continue to fall victim to these deaths. Voting is one way but not the only way. photo by Khadejah Folmar
NEWS Crowning Moment for Mr. and Miss B-CU
VOICE OF THE WILDCATS
OCTOBER 2016
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photo by John Reeves
Cortez West, left, and Amber Jazz Petrus, center, with B-CU President Edison O. Jackson, following their crowning during the coronation in the Performing Arts Center on Sept. 20.
Behind the Scenes Campus Royales getting ready for the show. Clockwise, Cortez West, (center) and fellow courtmen pose; bottom right and center, makeup artist Brioni Williams helps Brittany Kwarteng and Raenell Dorsey; bottom left Josiah Kinsey checks himself in the mirror; top left, Amber’Jazz Petrus checks her phone prior to coronation.
photos by Zoelexis Proby
COMMUNITY 4 B-CU students and administrators support annual Million Father March OCTOBER 2016
VOICE OF THE WILDCATS
For the fourth year Bethune-Cookman University officials participated in The Million Father March, a national movement established by Black Star Project that provides an opportunity for men to show their commitment to the educational success and social development of their children on the first day of school and throughout the school year. Administrators, faculty and students took part in welcome back rallies at area elementary school. Students, left, on their way to school get a high five from participants. A similar event, lead by college president Dr. Edison O. Jackson, took place a week earlier at Westside Elementary. Al Bouie, bottom left, B-CU assistant vice president for community affairs, used a megaphone to help coordinate the event at Turie T. Small Elementary on South Street in Daytona Beach. Bottom right, walk participants wait as children arrive for school. Besides college administrators and students, the event on Aug. 22 also attracted members of the community.
photos by Durell Young
SGA leaders vow improved student experience Sodexo
continued from page 1
By Khadejah Folmar Staff Writer Each spring B-CU students go to the poll to elect new student government leadership. After last year’s election, the mantle fell to Jacari W. Harris and Waynesha Wright, respectively, president and vice president, the duo ran on the platform of the “New Era Administration.” During a recent interview with the Voice, Harris and Wright outlined a number of goals for this year: student success, sustainability, student life enrichment, scholarships and career opportunities, safety and security and finally health and wellness. “As the Student Government Association, we have been created to serve, lead, and empower the student body by representing their views, being active in the community, and enhancing the school experience, “ Harris said. “This year, I intend to create a new standard of excellence for the students here on campus. I plan to do this by improving your experience here at Bethune- Cookman University. Every student on this campus is full of potential, and has the character and capacity to change the world and have a successful future.”
He said SGA’s role is to ensure that the people who have the ability to enact change hear the students’ voice. But in order to do that, he said, that the leadership needs to hear from B-CU students. “Help us bring about that change! …We are here to serve you! I am excited to hear your ideas, concerns, and solutions to various issues throughout the upcoming school year,” he said.
Harris
wanted to implement “Reusable To-Go Containers.” According to the petition, students could purchase, for a one-time fee of $5, a threecompartment food container. After eating, students would return a pre-rinsed food container for sanitizing and receive another container. The petition did not work as well as officials had hoped, according to Cindy Wallace, a supervisor of BCU’s dining hall. Wallace said the number of plastic foam boxes being used per day is still high. “Today at breakfast we gave out a 102 to-go boxes, and we did 238 at lunch,” she said during the interview on Sept 28. “We are in the process of reordering the disposable paper boxes, but everybody is trying to use those, so our order is backed up.” Meanwhile, while students are not using the disposable paper boxes, they are quick to applaud the to-go box idea.
Wright
Aliyah, a sophomore at Bethune - Cookman University, said she get a take-out box about eight times a week. “I have back-to -back classes,
so I have no other choice. I believe that it should be a privilege for upperclassmen, not freshmen,” said Aliyah, who was one of the students who signed the petition. Sodexo has not given up on the recyclable boxes. “We are still leaning toward reusable to-go containers. It would reduce the amount of trash on campus, and save the environment,” Wallace said. “Also, it would be a cheaper option just because twice a day we wouldn’t have to empty our dumpsters from the cardboard used to pack the to-go containers,” she said.
VOICE OF THE WILDCATS
New dorm opens
CAMPUS
OCTOBER 2016
Space dedicated to freshmen
By Augustinas Navickas Staff Writer Students attending Bethune-Cookman University this year have two new housing options. During the summer workmen completed construction on a new residence hall located at the corner of Lincoln Street and Mary McLeod Bethune Boulevard. It marked the completion of two new dorms built on campus in the last 20 months. The first dorm, named for Joyce and Thomas Moorehead, was completed in the spring. Together the new halls have room for 1,200 students, bringing the oncampus housing population to around 3,000 students in nine dorms. Housing more students on campus has been a goal of university President Edison O. Jackson for safety reasons. The new dorms were constructed at a cost of $72 million. The second dorm, now known as Phase 2, houses
freshmen. It consists of two buildings, Phase 2-C for men and Phase 2-D for women. Students living there pay about $400 more per semester, but they get to enjoy an in-house gym, conference rooms, lounge on each floor, group study rooms and com- Phase 2, above, the newest dorm on campus opened this fall. Bottom right, is the Thomas and Joyce Hanks Moorehead Residential Hall. puter labs. Moorehead Hall, previously known as Phase 1, houses upperclassmen. It, too, also costs $400 more than other dormitories, bringing the total to $4,750 for room and board per semester. Likewise, it consists of two buildings, called A and B. But, unlike the freshmen dormitories, it is not segregated by gender.
One other change of note this year--Phase 2, Bronson Complex, LeFevre, and Curtis hall are now home for first time freshmen. Also, Bronson, formerly a male dorm, is home to female students.
Beside the new dorms, other housing options on campus include Lee Rhyant, Ja-Flo Davis, Joyner and the Living Learning Complex.
“Together the new halls have room for 1,200 students.”
WILDCAT ROAR
The school recently imposed a curfew on freshmen. Do you think that is fair?
By Durell Young
Cristina Charles Freshman Biology “No, it isn’t fair because I’m in the band and sometimes we get out of practice late which causes us to be late for our dorm curfew. This sucks because our R.A.s don’t care and fine us anyways.”
Somer Harris Sophomore Broadcast Prod/ Marketing
Deyonte Matthews Junior Broadcast Journalism
Natrone Macon Senior Radio Technology
“I think it is fair to have freshmen on curfew, because it’s tradition and it will help them succeed in their classes.”
“I don’t think it’s fair at all! With most freshmen being over 18 they shouldn’t have to be told when to be in their dorm rooms. They’re grown. Let them enjoy college and have fun.”
“No, I do not think its fair for freshmen to have curfew. I feel like the freshmen should have the same rights as everyone on campus especially because they are out of high school and are considered adults now.”
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FEATURES
OCTOBER 2016
Faces of B-CU
Letter to the young college student Greetings to the Class of 2020, Welcome to the great BethuneCookman University. Congratulations. You made it out of high school and into the next big milestone of your life. As you embark on your new journey in a successful school year, there are certain things you must keep in mind. First, learn to prioritize. Remember that you are in school to further your education. Make sure school comes first above any parties. The party life will always be there but your GPA will not. Next, network with everyone you meet. You never know when someone you meet in class may be the very person to help you get a job, internship and other great opportunity. You could be sitting next too the next owner o a Fortune 500 company. Also, it is crucial that you create a good relationship with your professor. Your professor may be a gateway into helping you land a job after graduation. Likewise, make sure you go to all your classes. Attendance does really
count. Trust me, missing one class feels like missing a month worth of school. Finally, have fun! You are in college and these are supposed to be the best four years of your life. College is where you will encounter many people, make lifelong friends, have relationships, and evolve as the person you were meant to be. Remember to keep God first, your faith second and patience third. When times get hard keep in mind that God will never put you in a situation that you cannot overcome.
Faces of B-CU is a series of mini profiles of students, staff and faculty that are a part of the Bethune-Cookman University family.
B-CU junior finds value in staying involved By Yamil Turner Staff Writer
He graduated from Ft. Lauderdale High School in 2014 and has three siblings-- two brothers and a sister. Lacue says, “My experience at Cookman has been what I’ve made it. Staying involved socially and academically has made my experience greater than I imagined.”
Love and Blessings, Petra
Miles Lacue Miles A. Lacue is a Bethune-Cookman University student, scholar and multi-talented person.
Petra Merrick is a senior mass communications major and editor of the Voice of the Wildcats.
VOICE OF THE WILDCATS
Lacue is a junior here at B-CU. His home is Ft. Lauderdale. He is majoring in computer information systems with a concentration in web development.
His hopes his future includes working for Marvel or Pixar as a graphic designer or computer animator. Meanwhile, Lacue is involved in many campus organizations including Rekonstruktion Dance Troupe Inc., Boys Assistant Lead, SOCIT, Graphic Design Team Leader, the NAACP, GB, Brother to Brother and Faces Modeling Troupe Inc. Lacue says he has grown a lot over his time here and he wants to impact the world one person at a time.
Spotlight: Marching Wildcats ‘Pride’ of B-CU By Yamil Turner Staff Writer The Marching Wildcats, also known as “The Pride,” is a staple here at Bethune-Cookman University and has been for more than 40 years.
Donovan Wells
Research shows that during the early years, the band was known as the Marching Men and allowed only men to participate.
Today, the band is comprised of both male and female students. The 300-plus members are under the direction of band director Donovan V. Wells and associate band director James Poitier. The band has performed in front of thousands of people in such venues as professional football games for the Jacksonville Jaguars, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, as well as the Pro Bowl and the Super Bowl. The Pride also was featured in the hit movie “Drumline” and appeared in a television commercial for Cadillac CTS. It also has made regular appearances at the Honda Battle of
The Marching Wildcats perform during halftime at a football game.
the Bands in Atlanta. Likewise, it has made its mark among the local community, too. People look forward to Homecoming parade, knowing that they will get a real treat. The road to being a member of the band begins with summer band camp, where students come ahead of the school year to perfect their craft and prepare for the upcoming season. Having a diligent and hard working group of young adults that care for the craft is amazing in itself
and can be seen on the field from week to week. From football games to battle of the bands the momentum and drive never stops. That kind of devotion to purpose is what makes B-CU’s band program so great. Meanwhile, no mention of the band would be complete without taking a look at its auxiliary organizations, namely the Sophistcat Flag Corp, the 14karat Gold Dancers, and the Fabulous Five Horsemen.
photo by John Reeves
Auditions for all auxiliaries take place in the spring or the summer. That is when officials determine who will get the honor of the James Poitier wearing the maroon and gold for the upcoming season. continued on page 10
VOICE OF THE WILDCATS
ENTERTAINMENT
Controversy clouds ‘Birth of a Nation’
By Cortez West Correspondent One of the latest antebellum films slated to hit the big screen is “Birth of a Nation,” co-written, co-produced and directed by actor Nate Parker, who also plays the lead character.
continued on page 11
New look, new leaps on Thug’s new mixtape By Kalen Murphy Music Editor Jeffery Williams, the rap artist until recently known as Young Thug, has always been at the center of controversy, especially his penchant for wearing women’s clothes.
There is a slight difference this time, however, in that the music actually matched the gutsiness that makes him the star he is.The name change suits the timing of his latest release and from the opening standout track titled “Wyclef Jean,” you can tell the next direction he’s taking with his sound is to carve out more of his unique lane. The intro holds a reggae-influenced bouncy beat while Thugger or
Movie Review: ‘Sully’ entertaining but predictable
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By Augustinas Navickas Feature Writer
Parker’s film, set Nate Parker, center, promoting his movie during the recent NABJ Conference in Washington, D.C. to hit theatres on October 7, is loosely his past, specifically a 17-year-old based on the true story of Nat rape charge. In 1999 Parker and Turner, an enslaved Baptist preachhis roommate at Penn State, Jean er who lived on a plantation in Celestin, were charged and tried. Southampton County, Virginia that Parker was acquitted in 2001 after a was owned by Samuel Turner. After jury trial but Celestin, who co-wrote witnessing the horrific treatment of “Birth of a Nation,” was convicted. his fellow man, Turner realized that His conviction was later overturned. he could no longer just stand by He was not re-tried and their acand just preach. On Aug. 21, 1831, cuser committed suicide. Turner led one of the bloodiest slave rebellions in the South. One Parker has constantly been asked estimate is that between 65 and 75 to talk about his case but refuses whites were killed before he was to talk about it because he was captured. acquitted of the charges. Supporters of the movie are hoping that the Parker, who has started in several controversy does not overshadow films including “The Great Debaters” the movie, which was made for and “Red Tails,” finds himself caught $10 million. They also note that up in a controversy stemming from Parker should not
He stole the show again, this time by wearing a dress on the cover of his latest mixtape simply titled “JEFFERY.”
OCTOBER 2016
Clint Eastwood is a legendary Hollywood actor and filmmaker. He has won five Academy Awards over last three decades. Therefore, it doesn’t come as a surprise that at this point in his career Eastwood’s work is well polished, and often receives great reviews. His most recent film, “Sully,” starring Tom Hanks, is no exception. The movie, which was made at a cost of $60 million, is based on the true story involving an airplane landing in New York’s Hudson River in 2009. The plane departed from LaGuardia airport and almost immediately encountered a flock of birds, which damaged the engine and forced the pilots to perform an emergency landing. The captain of the aircraft Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger (played by Tom Hanks), and his co-pilot Jeff Skiles (played by Aaron Eckhart), decided not to go back to the airport and instead land the plane on the river. The emergency landing was successful and believe it or not, all 155 passen-
gers and crew survived. As obvious as it might sound, by far the best scenes of the movie were directly involving the plane crash. In those scenes the 86-year-old Eastwood proves once again that he knows what people like to see. He managed to maintain suspense and intrigue the viewers about the outcome they already knew. However, after the plane lands everything goes downhill in my opinion. The movie shows the life of Sully after his heroic actions. The director wanted to portray Sully as an continued on page 11
Music drought ends for fans of Frank Ocean By Kalen Murphy Music Editor I thought I would never ever hear Frank Ocean dropping again.
Jeffery—take your pick--seamlessly floats on the beat. To make a long story short, it’s a certified jam. It doesn’t stop there as he switches up his flow on every track and even his voice tone, such as the aggressive track “Harambe” and the melodic tune “Kanye West” featuring Wyclef Jean. This is exactly what Young Thug needs: Something that makes as much as a statement as his image. Rating:
I had been hearing false headlines of promise for four years and to me the recent rumors didn’t sound any different.
Rating:
It turns out that this time it was the truth. First, Ocean dropped “Endless,” an Apple Music visual album. Upon first listen, it was evident this there is a reason Frank Ocean could hold the world’s attention with such a long absence. It was a beautiful, focused piece of work from the opening lyrics of lost relationships to the instrumentation. Everybody wanted more and magically, it happened. He dropped “Blond” the next day. Let’s get this straight, “Blond” is arguably Frank’s best work in my opinion. It is a masterpiece that is bolder and more polished than anything else he has done. This is the “Channel Orange” follow-up people have needed for so long. You hear it in the songwriting and the smooth guitar riffs of “Ivy,” as well as in the storytelling and the vocal leaps in “Seigfried.” Then, too, there is even the late summer mood
Rating:
song “White Ferrari.” This is the album that answers how Frank can do what only Frank can do. He’s just that good.
“Everybody wanted more...”
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OCTOBER 2016
SPORTS
VOICE OF THE WILDCATS
Moore Gymnasium unavailable for teams to practice, play games Facility shutdown after leak under floor during the summer
By Dominique Williams Sports Writer
surface and the pipes underground will be completed in mid-November, according to the contractor and representatives from our facilities and maintenance department in charge of the project.
The road to the MEAC for Bethune – Cookman University women’s Volleyball team this year has run into a big pothole.
The Lady Cats had to readjust their game schedule so that all the home games are now away games. In the meantime, the volleyball team has been holding practices off campus at the DME Sports Complex in Daytona Beach. It has three basketball A volleyball team member leaps to spike ball during seaon opener against Florida Atlantic courts and the equipment “Unfortunately, in early-August, for the Lady Cats to continue to Moore Gymnasium was forced to close University on Aug 26. practice. for a significant amount of time, as bustBethune-Cookman University. ed pipes underground cause irreparable damage Team members are confident that they can pull to the wooden playing surface,“ said Bryan Harvey, “Because it is our only gymnasium on campus, out another winning seasons despite the chalassistant athletic director, in an email. our fall sports teams for volleyball, as well as lenge, according to senior Lauren Turner, a hitter women’s basketball and men’s basketball – which and blocker. “We are in high spirits despite of the Besides serving as the practice and competition stretch into the winter months, were forced to situation. We were devastated after receiving the site for B-CU men’s basketball, women’s basketball practice, and in some cases compete, in alternate, news…wondering what were we going to do.” and volleyball, Harvey said. it also serves as the site off-campus facilities,” he said. “It is our hope that for a variety of intramural events in and around the project pertaining to repairing the gymnasium continued on page 10 campus, as well as student-related activities for The team, which finished with a perfect 10-0 season during the 20152016 school year, is having to contend with finding a place to practice because of a leak in the Moore Gymnasium. Officials say a water pipe burst under the court during the summer and the floor is unbalanced.
B-CU athletics inducts 13 into Hall of Fame Class for 2016 Special to The Voice Bethune-Cookman Athletics inducted 13 members into it 2016 Athletic Hall of Fame Class as part of the pre-game activities surrounding last month’s game against Tennessee State. “We are honored to recognize 13 outstanding Wildcats whose lives and accomplishments have made a tremendous impact on our university, community and our conference,” said B-CU President Dr. Edison O. Jackson. Lynn W. Thompson, B-CU vice president of intercollegiate athletics, worked directly with the selection committee chaired by the Rev. Dr. Kevin James, Sr., Thompson said he was truly impressed with the class. “The committee selected a phenomenal group of thirteen of the greatest student-athletes, coaches and supporters to have ever been a part of the history of our university,” he said. “They each truly deserve this moment of honor and recognition for the work they have done on our campus and beyond.” The 2016 Hall of Fame Class includes former student-athletes, coaches and special contributors who have enriched the legacy of the institution through intercollegiate athletics and professional accomplishments. An 11-person committee made up from a cross-section of campus constituencies, alumni and boosters, selected the honorees. Since its establishment in 2000, the Hall of Fame has enshrined 63 people, including the Class of 2016. The 2016 B-CU Hall of Fame Inductees are as follows: Inducted as Student-Athletes:
Johnny “Gator” Allen (Men’s Basketball): Along with Carl Fuller, Allen anchored perhaps the best men’s basketball lineup in Bethune-Cookman history. He was a four-year letter winner (19651969) and the all-time leading scorer with 3,067 career points. Allen was also the second-leading rebounder with 1,352 boards, and still holds the school single-season scoring record with his 1967-68 total of 994 points. He scored more than 30 points in 35 games and finished as the all-time leader in field goals, field goal attempts and free throws. He was a member of the 1968 SIAC champions, and holds the SIAC Tournament scoring record and led the Wildcats to two NAIA postseason appearances. Allen passed away in Palm Beach County in 2013. Linda Banks (Women’s Basketball): A four-year letter winner (1977-1980) as a freshman, Banks led the Lady Wildcats to the 1978 FIAW state basketball title. Her sophomore year, she averaged 25 points per game and finished her career averaging double figures in points per game and led the Lady Cats to the 1980 FIAW state title and an AIAW national tournament appearance. Nick Collins (Football): Nick Collins was a threeyear starter at free safety (2002-2004) and the captain of one of the most successful football teams in Wildcats history. Known as a ferocious hitter, the free safety earned All-American and All-MEAC honors when he led the league with six interceptions in 2004. The Green Bay Packers drafted him in the second round in 2005, going on to earn three Pro Bowl appearances and scoring a touchdown in the Packers’ Super Bowl XLV victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. After retiring in 2015, Collins was named to the Green Bay Packer Hall of Fame in 2016. He is the son of former Wildcats quarterback Willie Collins, a consensus choice of the coaches of his era as one of the greatest athletes to ever lead a BethuneCookman football team.
Owen Harris (Men’s Basketball): The greatest assists leader in Bethune-Cookman men’s basketball history, Harris was a four-year starter (1967-1971) on head coach and fellow B-CU Hall of Famer Jack “Cy” McClairen’s greatest teams. He was the point guard who fed the ball to fellow Hall of Famers Carl Fuller and Johnny “Gator” Allen. Harris is the school’s all-time leader in free throw percentage and is ninth all-time in scoring with 1,401 career points. He was the starting point guard on the legendary 1968 SIAC Championship team, and served as assistant basketball coach at BethuneCookman for four years before becoming a successful high school coach in Florida. Rashean Mathis (Football): A four-year letter winner in football (1999-2002), Mathis set the NCAA Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) and B-CU single-season interception record with 14 in 2002. He finished that season as the fifth-leading scorer on the 2002 team, with touchdowns on interception returns, punts returns and touchdown receptions, respectively. His stellar 2002 season was capped off with him being named the winner of the Buck Buchannan Award as the nation’s top defensive player. He finished his B-CU career as second all-time in interceptions with 31. In 2003, he was drafted in the second round by his hometown team, the Jacksonville Jaguars, and was named to the 2006 Pro Bowl. He retired from the NFL in 2015 after playing 175 games with 32 interceptions after playing for Jacksonville and the Detroit Lions. Jerry Simmons (Football): Simmons was a threeyear veteran wide receiver that led the Wildcats in receptions in 1962 and 1964, and was the beneficiary of the pro-style offense of Jack “Cy” McClairen during his first years as head coach of the Wildcats. After his career at B-CU (1961-1964), Simmons played for 10 seasons and 106 games in the National Football League with the Denver
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University in June 2016. Marcia Pinder (Women’s Basketball): A 1974 graduate of BethuneCookman College, according to many publications, Pinder is undoubtedly one of the greatest girl’s high school basketball coaches in the nation. With over 900 coaching victories and nine state championships, Pinder has created Ft. Lauderdale’s Dillard High School to a place amongst America’s elite girls’ basketball powerhouses. Her accomplishments have earned her enshrinement in three Halls of Fames, which include Broward County Athletic Hall of Fame, Florida Athletic Coaches Association (FACA) and National Scholastic Hall of Fame. Inducted as Humanitarians/Supporters of Athletics
Members of the 2016 Hall of Fame class pose for a group photo.
Broncos and the Atlanta Falcons. After his playing career ended, Simmons embarked on a long career as an NFL scout. Alvin Wyatt, Sr. (Football): Simply one of the greatest to ever wear the Maroon and Gold as a studentathlete, Wyatt could be enshrined in both categories of student-athlete and coach if it was possible. Wyatt was a four-year letter winner in football and track and field (19661969), and was named All-SIAC during each year of his career. In 1969, Wyatt was named SIAC Player of the Year as a defensive back and return specialist, devastating opponents with his interception and kick returns for touchdowns. He capped off that phenomenal season by being named as an All-American. Forty-six years later, Wyatt still holds B-CU records for single game interceptions (5), career interceptions (34) and career punt return average (25.6). After concluding his sterling B-CU career in 1970, he was a sixth-round draft pick of the Oakland Raiders and thrilled crowds in Oakland and Buffalo during his NFL career, as well as the Jacksonville Sharks of the World Football League. After retiring from his professional career, Wyatt joined the B-CU football staff, serving a long stint as defensive coordinator for both Larry Little and Jack “Cy” McClairen, and would become the winningest head football coach (90 wins) and head women’s basketball coach (245) in school history. One of the only coaches to be named MEAC Coach of the Year in Football and Women’s Basketball, Wyatt led the Wildcats football team to the 2002 MEAC football championships
and a pair of NCAA postseason appearances, as well as the 1998 Heritage Bowl. He led the Lady Cats hoopsters to crowns in the FIAW and MEAC during his career as a women’s basketball coach. Presently, he is the head football coach at Edward Waters College in Jacksonville, Florida.
track coach at Miami Northwestern High School where he constantly produced high school track phenoms. He led the Bulls to the 1991 Florida 4-A track championship. He retired in 2007, and was named to the Florida Athletic Coaches Association (FACA) Track Hall of Fame in 2016.
Lauren McCoy (Softball): Lauren McCoy was a three-year letter winner at B-CU (2003-2005) and lettered in softball and bowling. In softball, she became a legend as a threetime All MEAC pitcher with three 20-win seasons capped off with the historic 2005 season in which she led the Wildcats to the NCAA Division I Regional Championship and the first and only appearance of an HBCU in the NCAA Softball Super Regionals. She finished her career with 456 strikeouts, 28 shutouts and her career earned run average was lower than 1.70 in all three seasons. She pitched five no-hitters and two perfect games for the Wildcats. After graduation, she began a coaching career, and is presently the head softball coach at fellow MEAC member institution, Howard University.
Mervyl Melendez (Baseball): Mervyl Melendez, like Alvin Wyatt, could have been named either as a student-athlete or coach. As a player, Melendez was a two-year letter winner (1996-1997), and finished his playing career as the all-time leader in doubles (30) and batting average (.342). He also starred as a relief pitcher for the Cats, in addition to his regular role at third base. Melendez also had a clutch double that drove in the winning run in the Wildcats first NCAA postseason baseball victory at Georgia Southern. After his playing career ended in 1998, he was named an assistant coach at B-CU under Richard Skeel, and two years later became the head coach in 2000. During the next 11 seasons, he was named MEAC Coach of the Year eight times, led the Cats to 11 MEAC Tournament Championships and NCAA regional championship appearances, three undefeated seasons in league play and 379 career wins. In 2012, he was named head baseball coach at Alabama State University, and in 2016 led the Hornets to an undefeated season in conference play and the SWAC championship and NCAA regional championship berth. After that tremendous season, Melendez accepted the head baseball coaching position at Florida International
Inducted as Coaches: Calvin Jackson (Track & Field): Jackson was a two-sport letter winner for the Wildcats as a standout offensive lineman who opened holes for Wildcats legends Randy Walker and Wayne Allen (1970-1973). As a track student-athlete, Jackson also swept the 1972 discus and shot put titles at the 1972 SIAC Track and Field Championships. After graduation, he served as long-time and legendary
The Rev. Isadore Williams: Known around the country as “the voice of Bethune-Cookman Football”, Isadore Williams actually began his career as public address announcer for the Wildcats while a student on campus in 1975. In short, Isadore Williams is the only voice that Wildcats football fans have known for 40 years. Since his beginning on the microphone as a student, Reverend Williams has only missed two football games for the Cats, and his legendary calls have inspired Wildcats fans for generations. He is revered for his traditional opening line “Who Will Ascend to the Top of the Mountain.” He has called over 220 Wildcats football games, and is also a legend as the play-by-play announcer each Friday night for his hometown Lake City Columbia High School football team. Reverend Williams is always comfortable and inspiring, whether in the announcers’ booth on a Friday or Saturday, or in the pulpit as the longtime pastor of the historic Philadelphia Baptist Church in Lake City, and continues to provide inspiration to his flock in Lake City, as well as to Wildcats and supporters across the country. His unmistakable voice is the sound of hope – whether on the field of competition or the mission field. Inducted Posthumously Damion Cook (Football): A massive and multi-talented football player, Damion Cook had experience playing both offense and defense for the Wildcats from 1997-2000. He started at defensive tackle in the 1998 Heritage Bowl and spent enormous amounts of time on offense in short yardage situations. While it was clear that he had all of the tools to become a legendary offensive lineman, Damion played where the team needed him most – defense. Recognizing his stellar talent, NFL veteran and then head coach Alvin Wyatt groomed this giant for a career in the National Football League. Cook played in continued on page 11
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Meet the Interns: Mass Communication students get a taste of the real world Students spent the summer working as employees with several media organizations
By Petra Merrick Durell Young:
Kenneth Martin
Toyneisha Whitaker
Deltona TV
WTKR News 3
Love Center Church
Deltona, FL
Norfolk, VA
Orlando, FL
Q. What was your overall experience at your internship? A. I had a fun experience, it was a lot of hard work, and my internship mostly consisted of video editing and little graphic design every day. I had to meet many quotas. Deadlines were usually at 12, before lunch, or after, sometimes I had to miss lunch to meet the deadline. Q.What were your hours? A.I worked Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., 50 hours a week. Q.Was it a paid internship? A. No, unfortunately it was not a paid internship. Q. What did you dislike about your internship? A. Filming in the hot sun for shows. Q. Did you get a job offer? A. I was hired during the internship fair and started immediately. Advice to freshmen: “Be confident in your work. Do not complain about anything, (and) be creative in anything you do. … Research your internship before you start so you would know what you are getting yourself into, to see if you like it or not.”
Q. What was your overall experience at your internship? A.Overall, it was a great experience, I definitely learned a lot about things. I also developed mentors. During my internship I was able to go out with reporters, create my own news stories on days I did not go out with the reporters. I worked the assignment desk; I worked with the producers and the web team. Q. What were your hours? A. I worked Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Q. Was it a paid internship? A. Yes, it was a paid internship. Q. What did you dislike about your internship? A. N/A Q. Did you get a job offer? A. N/A Advice to freshmen: “Start researching internships now. Find the company you want to work with, start networking and hopefully you get the internship.”
Sully
Nation
American hero but, in do so, so the film gets boring and “dry” fairly quick.
be looked down upon because he wasn’t convicted.
“Sully” has surprisingly good reviews among critics, yet it’s nothing more than a one-time entertainment tool, which you will forget about as soon as you get home from the movie theater.
The actor is refusing to add to the controversy by talking about his past troubles.
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The film, meanwhile, cost $60 million to make and has taken in more than $90 million at the box office.
Band
continued from page 6 It is hard work, according to Mariah Davis, a 14K veteran. “Dancing has always been a passion of mine and the process of being a 14k dancer is a blessing and the reaction from fans is what drives me to continue to dance day to day,” Davis said. Coming to a field near you for the 2016-2017 football season. Prepare yourself for what we at Cookman like to say is quality at its best—The Pride.
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Q. What was your overall experience at your internship? A. It was a great learning experience, I had the opportunity to apply the knowledge I learned in class to a real life experience. During my internship I had to produce and promote social post, formulate a street team to pass out flyers to promote services, send thank letters to visitors and returning members. Q. What were your hours? A. Wednesday through Sunday, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and special time on Sunday 9 a.m. to 12 noon. Q.Was it a paid internship? A. No. Q. What did you dislike about your internship? A. Being limited with the software Q. Did you get a job offer? A. No, but I did enjoy the experience. Advice to freshmen: “Do not wait until the last minute. Get involved within your track and research the career path you are trying to pursue.”
Wright
continued from page 1 wages for all employees of Volusia County without the reliance of the district’s reserves.
Prior to the election, the board spent a lot of time “I do not want to speak for anyone,” he considering whether to require said in an interview with Essence magazine. He encouraged people to go out and see the students t wear uniforms. In the end, they voted to do so startmovie, which provided jobs for more than 400 people. The film co-stars Armie Hammer, ing this fall. Aja Naomi King, Jackie Earle Haley, Penelope Wright said she was happy Ann Miller and Gabrielle Union. with the outcome. “ We have approximately 98 percent Fox Searchlight Films paid a record-breakcompliance rate. I have always ing $17.5 million for the worldwide rights to the film at the Sundance Film Festival, according to Variety.com.
Officials with Fox issued a statement that they are standing behind Parker, noting his acquittal.
believed if parents and students would adhere to the policy the initial benefits will outweigh the complaints,” she said. adding uniforms can promote an atmosphere of academic excellence and good behavior. “When barriers are removed learning will take place. When learning take place, student performance will increase, “ she said.
Volleyball continued from page 8 Meanwhile, not only did the team maintain a perfect record to claim its first Middle Eastern Athletic Conference Southern Division Title last school year, head coach Brittany Williams was named MEAC Coach of the year in 2015.
Williams became the interim head coach after former head coach Isaac Raphael resigned just prior to the season. The Lady Cats also finished the year winning eight of the team’s final nine matches along the way to the MEAC Runner-Up.
IN OTHER NEWS:
and a total of 3,964 students, both the largest numbers ever reported by the university.
Bethune-Cookman University is experiencing historical enrollment numbers for its new academic year. Thus far, the university has welcomed 1,177 freshmen
The university expects to welcome more students for Subterm II, an accelerated semester, in October.
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Hall of Fame continued from page 9
the famed eight-overtime win against Virginia State in 1997, which at the time was the longest game in NCAA history with one of the zaniest plays of the year. In the sixth overtime, Damion broke through and blocked a VSU field goal and took off towards the end zone for an apparent 82-yard touchdown, but dove too soon into the end zone only to come up two yards short. Two overtimes later, the Cats celebrated the win after a huge sack by Cook allowed the Cats to take possession and score the game winning TD. Damion starred in the first season of “Hard Knocks� with the Baltimore Ravens, the NFL training camp television show, as he successfully earned a spot with the Ravens and went on the play 26 games in his career with the Ravens and the Cleveland Browns. He also played in the Canadian Football League and the United Football League. In the 2015, the Wildcat nation was heartbroken at the
sudden death of this great young father, husband and Maryland high school football coach, and the Bethune-Cookman Athletic Department honored his memory by naming the football student-athlete of the year award as the Damion Cook Award. The son of two Bethune-Cookman alums, Donald and Dr. Dorothy Cook, Damion Cook was one of the most respected and well-liked students to ever grace the campus. Information for this report came from the B-CU Office of Communication
Top right, the Rev. Dr. Kevin James Sr. presents a medallion to hall of famer Linda Banks. Bottom right, B-CU alumni Donald and Dorothy Cook accepted the award for their son
Damion Cook.
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More photos from Ovarian Cancer Walk The annual Odessa Chambliss Ovarian Walk for Cancer Awareness attracted about 180 people to the event that is staged by Bethune-Cookman University. Dr. Diana Lee, director of the Odessa Chambliss Center for Health Equity at Bethune-Cookman University, said officials were happy with the turnout despite the hot weather. “This is an important event for the University since the Odessa Chambliss center is named after the mother of trustee Dr. Lucille O’Neal. Chambliss was a nurse and a woman of faith who unfortunately died as a consequence of late diagnosis of ovarian cancer,” Lee said. “That is why we work hard in creating the awareness about this type of cancer and encourage the B-CU family and community to be familiar with their bodies and take care of themselves.”
Trustee Lucille O’Neal, above, talks to participants about the importance of the event.
Walkers, above, head out for the bridge. Registration for the walk was free.
Lee, who also serves as vice president for Volusia Volunteers in Medicine, said plans are all ready underway for next ear’s event that will take place in September.
Dr. Diana Lee, above, director of the Odessa C. Chambliss Wellness Center on campus, helped pass out breakfast to the walkers that took part in the Sept. 19 event. photos by Durell Young