Flight | Vol.3, Issue 1 | Hope

CONTRIBUTORS

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Jamie Naylor

MANAGING EDITOR

Alexis Lewis

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Monica Brutto

Dominic Wenrick

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Emily Lewis

STAFF ADVISOR

Debbie Lamp

WRITERS

Noah Kindig

Emily Mancuso

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Emily Weigandt

From

Alexis Lewis

Elayna Storts

Cover Photo by Monica Brutto

Ihave been thinking about legacy a lot these past couple of months, as this is my last semester as editor-in-chief and as a member of The Wright State Guardian. I have had some amazing experiences in the three years I have been with the publication, but my garden is full and my seeds are planted, and it’s time to watch them grow. There is something quite beautiful about legacy; it’s something you are constantly working on yet never quite consciously aware of until it’s time to till a new garden. If legacy is the seeds, then hope is the soil and growth is the water.

HOPE IS A FOUNDATION

to build off of, it’s the mindset that people, situations and even society can change and become better. That we can change and impact the world in a positive light. Without hope, one can get stuck in the status quo, which leads to the point of growth. Changing, healing, and fulfilling your dreams is not an easy process and it often requires a revaluation of the self and of tradition. In order to act on hope one must also grow, the soil and all the lovely plants in it cannot be fertile without water.

These three together are not only the topics of this edition of Flight Magazine but are also concepts our community has struggled with since the COVID-19

pandemic. How do you build hope in a post pandemic world when people struggled and when life stood still? Do you dig yourself out of the pit to grow yourself and your community back up? Well as you will see in this edition, our Wright State and Dayton communities are resilient. Even though the campus and area have faced so much in the past couple of years, they found hope to rebuild and grew to rise to the occasion, creating a legacy that will last for many generations. We hope to capture this evolution on these pages.

I want to personally thank all the community members and supporters who made this edition possible, and I want to thank all Guardian members, past, present and future, for helping me grow not only as a journalist but also as a person and for working hard to help this amazing community. I hope we all, myself included, will leave hope to build off of, an inspiration to grow and a positive, long-lasting legacy.

Jamie Naylor

“Legacy. What is a Legacy? It’s planting seeds in a garden you never get to see.”

Lin-Manuel Miranda, “Hamilton”

Editor-in-Chief

What Does Hope Mean To You?

by Elayna Storts

11-14

Dear Past and Future Me: A Scope of Self

by Alexis Lewis

17-18

The Legacy of Gordie Wise: Another Exciting Night of Raider Roundball

by Noah Kindig

19-22

WSU ALUMNI:

Approaching Purpose from The Art and Sciences

by Emily Mancuso

Perceptions of the Present HOPE

HOPE WHAT DOES MEAN TO

YOU?

BY ELAYNA STORTS

The dictionary definition of hope is: “desire accompanied by expectation of or belief in fulfillment.” When written down, hope is flat, but in the real world, hope takes on a dynamic life that inspires people to act, inspires growth from struggle and imparts a vision for the future.

To see hope in action we went around the Wright State University Dayton campus and ask the community what this dynamic word ‘hope’ meant to them. The answers are varied but show just how strong a community can be.

“Hope means a chance to make things better.

Graduate Student Maya Galbrith

WHAT DOES HOPE IN THE WSU COMMUNITY MEAN TO YOU?

Faculty Senate President Brian Boyd: “Students do. Knowing that we are providing an opportunity to students that maybe they wouldn’t of had at other places. So, that gives me hope, seeing students be successful.”

HOW DO YOU SEE HOPE REFLECTED IN YOUR LIFE AND OTHERS AROUND YOU?

Boyd: “When I feel hopeful it’s when I am working on some bigger thing beyond myself. When I get to be a part of something that’s outside my bubble, that’s when I feel pretty hopeful. Maybe that’s the extravert in me, getting to connect with people and work with them.”

Even if something is going wrong now, there’s always hope for tomorrow. That things will change and even out.

WSU police officer Katie Wright

The freedom to achieve your goal, really, if you have hope for something there’s an opportunity for it to happen.

Undergrad Student Seren Hecht

What hope means to me, is having the courage to be able to move on no matter the adversities you face throughout life. That you still have hope that things will get better.

Undergrad Student Gabrielle Brown

GROWTH A Journey of Progress

DEAR PAST AND FUTURE ME: A SCOPE OF SELF

BY ALEXIS LEWIS

I Celebrate myself, and sing myself, And what I assume you shall assume, For every atom belonging to me as good belongs to you. I loafe and invite my soul, I lean and loafe at my ease observing a spear of summer grass.

My tongue, every atom of my blood, form’d from this soil, this air, Born here of parents born here from parents the same, and their parents the same, I, now thirty-seven years old in perfect health begin, Hoping to cease not till death.

Creeds and schools in abeyance, Retiring back a while sufficed at what they are, but never forgotten, I harbor for good or bad, I permit to speak at every hazard, Nature without check with original energy.

– Song of Myself, 1 [I Celebrate myself] by Walt

Whitman, 1892

In this poem completed shortly before his death, Walt Whitman, American poet, essayist and journalist, explores the idea of self, identity and nature. Readers can see a running theme of placement in life: where one has come from and where one is going. In this sentiment, the Wright State community provides personal experiences embedded with enthusiastic storytelling to share their story and place themselves in the broader scope of the world outside Wright State’s walls into a perspective of humanity.

What are words of advice you would give to your younger self? Or words of encouragement, comfort or affirmation? And how about your future self? How do you see that version of yourself fitting into the world?— These are all questions that these people explored to ultimately gauge their history, present self and future identity.

In this story-letter, readers will hear voices of Christine Orr, Heidi Ames, Andrew Robeson and Dennis Bova. Orr is a graduating English major; Ames is also a graduating English major; Robeson is a junior history major; Bova is a freelance writer with the WSU communications office and project manager for the university alumni magazine.

wsuguardian.com |

MEET THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE LETTERS

With a support system on her side from an early age, Orr felt encouraged to do whatever she wanted to do, whether that was performing on stage or writing. In her time behind the scenes at local community theaters, she was more comfortable because, at the time, she was scared to be on stage or to speak in public. A turning point came when she did perform on stage for the first time, however. Orr explained that, while her career path has changed since her performance days, that was the first time she overcame a challenge and believed that her dream could be real. In the

like her for who she is. In her current position, Ames hopes that her future self recognizes all the hard work and dedication she put into school and work, as she is able to support herself and her career independently. These words of encouragement and celebration ring true in her reflections.

Robeson described the thin line of pushing oneself and relaxing about outside worries. As a history major, Robeson is required to read and take extensive notes. Being able to put interaction into his studies is important for Robeson, who also desires time to hang out and not worry so much about academics and responsibilities. Alongside professional responsibilities, Robeson also told himself that

day, no matter how small. Traveling and having fun life experiences are embedded in his words.

DEAR PAST ME…

Working hard and trying new things is more important than following a dream, because dreams change. When you work hard and try new things, you can start pursuing those new dreams. You cannot do it on your own, but

future, Orr urges herself to not let fear of getting older sink in. As Orr puts it, whatever one person does or accomplishes in life is what that person was meant to do. Orr echoes these sentiments in her words of affirmation and comfort.

As an expressive individual, Ames highlighted the importance of being oneself and sticking to who you are. Ames used to replay conversations in her head and analyze what she said, doubting and worrying herself. Once she realized that she needed to stop reading into different interactions, she was able to realize that people

personal relationships and friendships will also work out. Not worrying about other people and sticking to oneself is a tenet of Robeson’s words.

When Bova moved to the area in April 2021, he experienced a large change in his life. He lived in his previous house for 28 years, so moving meant that a lot of what he did and a lot of the connections he had made would be strained. In Dayton, Bova has built up a network and community to stay connected and traverse the ups and downs of large life transitions. He now focuses on things that brighten his

with a support system, you can do anything.

It is going to be okay, so do not be afraid to try new things. Enjoy life more, travel more and gain those life experiences. While you do this, take care of yourself both physically and mentally. Connect with your inner child to do things that appeal to you, that brighten your day or that bring you joy, even if it is the little things.

Do not stress about the little things (easier said than done). Just relax, chill out. There is a thin line between pushing yourself and relaxing about the little things, so try to find a balance between these mindsets.

Remember that what happens happens. Everything will turn out alright in the end.

It is okay to be unsure of yourself when you step into new areas of life, especially college. Be prepared to take leaps and solidify plans, but also be fluid and understand the waves of life. Find your community and connect with people who are going through similar struggles and joys as you. Do not be so hard on yourself academically or performance-wise. You are amazing. Do not doubt yourself, and keep with your flow. Do not change for other people. You are you.

DEAR FUTURE ME…

Appreciate the time you have and live in the moment. Remember the foundation you worked so hard to build, and try to enjoy life and accomplish whatever goals you might have. If it is not something that is going to benefit you immediately, hey, if your heart is pulling you toward it, go for it. What’s the worst that can happen?

It is good to have spontaneity even with a bit of planning. Balance is key. Just keep swimming, just keep going.

You have made it this far, and you can go even farther. Remember that you alone found the strength to get through difficult stages in life. You are the basis of your success. Do not discredit yourself for the work you put into the things that you love. Remember to indulge a little and celebrate yourself at every step along the way.

You did something great yesterday, you did something great today, and you will do something great tomorrow. Enjoy life and do not worry yourself about everything. Enjoy life and enjoy the experiences and enjoy the people you meet along the way.

LEGACY

Looking to the Future Through the Past

THE LEGACY OF GORDIE WISE: ANOTHER EXCITING NIGHT OF RAIDER ROUNDBALL

BY NOAH KINDIG

A RAIDER FOR HALF A CENTURY

Gordie first came to Wright State in 1966 after teaching at his alma mater, Miami University, for five years. He taught as an instructor in the Raj Soin College of Business, where he remained for 46 years.

He rose through the ranks of the school, becoming an assistant then an associate and finally a full professor, all while winning awards for teaching, research and service to the school. While teaching, he became a part of what would truly make his life significant: the creation of WSU athletics.

“He’s been a part of the program, the whole athletic program, since its inception,” Jim Brown, a hall-of-fame basketball coach for WSU, said. “He was on the original committee that decided to have an athletic program.”

Behind the scenes, Gordie was the head of the creation of WSU athletics. He drafted the Athletic Council’s original constitution, was its first chair and was WSU’s representative to the NCAA for 19 years.

“Some Athletic Council stuff wasn’t always fun, but it was significant,” Gordie said in a 2019 interview with Wright State Athletics. “It was doing the job that needed to be done and enjoying doing it.”

Enjoying the job was a theme for Gordie’s life, especially as WSU’s first public address announcer. He would announce the name of every Raider, and he always welcomed the public to “another exciting night of Raider roundball” for 49 years, in, as he called it, “the best seat in the house.”

“As I reflect over this last half century and remember some of the opportunities that I had, being the PA announcer for 49 years was sort of frosting on the cake,” Gordie said.

After Gordie’s retirement in 2018, WSU athletics never forgot him. His impact on the program made it to the Raider jerseys for the 2022-23 season, a small black patch with a microphone that simply said “Gordie.”

A GOOD SOUL

Outside of the athletics program, Gordie was a teacher, mentor and friend to many. He retired from teaching in 2012 after 51 years as a college professor, including those 46 years in the Wright State College of Business, and after impacting thousands of students.

As a practicing Christian, Gordie made it his mission to mentor as many students as possible, from the halls of WSU to West Central Juvenile Facility to first- and secondgraders in Piqua.

He was a longtime Sunday school teacher for his local church, a mentor to over 90 teenage felons and a rock for his kids, grandkids and his Wright State Raiders.

“Coach Wise was an early mentor and influence on my life,” Bill Lane, a mentee of Wise, wrote. “I was so lucky to meet him at an early age while a student at Springcreek Elementary. He was a positive role model for all of us during those days.”

In his community, Gordie and his wife, Suzie, would often open their home to their neighborhood, especially around the holidays.

“Gordy was such a good friend. [My wife] and I greatly enjoyed their Christmas Eve morning neighborhood coffee where they’d open their home to all neighbors,” Donald Wells, a neighbor of Gordie, wrote. “Our community has lost a great man.”

While Gordie’s voice no longer echoes around the Nutter Center, his impact is not forgotten. Because of him, there will always be “another exciting night of Raider roundball” to look forward to.

WSU ALUMNI:

APPROACHING PURPOSE FROM THE ARTS AND SCIENCES BY EMILY MANCUSO

When alumnus Mark Espy graduated in 1981, the very first female was elected to the Supreme Court. When alumnus Tim Waggoner crossed the stage in 1989, the Berlin Wall had just fallen.

These alumni would go on to carve their own paths in history, developing the COVID-19 vaccine and revolutionizing the writing sphere respectively.

What they both have in common, despite their very different fields, is their testament to the value of education, mentors and the art of teaching itself.

Even if their education did not go as planned in the beginning, both alumni found fulfillment, whether it be in books or beakers.

THROUGH THE ARTS

WSU 1989 graduate and author Tim Waggoner specializes in writing fantasy, horror and thriller, earning notable awards, including the Bram Stoker Award for Superior Achievement in Long Fiction, Nonfiction and short NonFiction.

Waggoner has also written multiple books concerning the writing craft he gained from approximately 40 years of writing experience.

“So one answer to why I write horror is that I’ve loved it all my life and grew into the writer I am—just as I’ve grown into the man I’ve become—bit by bit, moment by moment.”

- Tim Waggoner, Writing in the Dark

A current full-time Sinclair Community College teacher going on 23 years teaching creative writing classes, Waggoner knows the importance of education for himself and his students.

“There’s a lot of ups and downs in the writer’s life. You know, for everything that you see published, there may be lots of things that were never published, or it was published, but nobody can see it,” Waggoner said. “It’s all the people I’ve been able to help, whatever I can do to contribute either as a teacher or just as a mentor myself and contribute to the writers’ organizations I belong to.”

Waggoner also identifies continuing steadily in the writing craft as one of the biggest accomplishments as a writer in combination with his impact as an educator.

The University of Pittsburgh has even noted Waggoner’s tenacity and extensive work, with the university currently archiving Waggoner’s work into its horror collection.

This accomplishment did not come overnight, with Waggoner carefully sticking to a schedule that has resulted in dozens of novels and stories.

THROUGH THE SCIENCES

A scientist of over 35 years, 2023 Alumnus of the Year Awardee Mark Espy was a clinic researcher at Mayo Clinic, helping further the development of the prevention and detection of disease.

Espy not only helped develop the COVID-19 vaccine but also the herpes viruses, influenza and smallpox vaccines, among others.

This was what Espy identifies as their biggest accomplishment of their career.

Espy began working with antigen antibody reactions, which segued into more molecular diagnostics and work with muscular dystrophy and other genetic diseases.

“[Patient diagnostic] was a very wonderful thing. I enjoyed that and then also troubleshooting. If something went wrong in the laboratory, what’s one of the tests? What was the problem? How can we fix the problem and then try and make sure it didn’t happen again?” Espy said.

This work helped the medical field not only in diagnosis but also diagnosis earlier than before.

Espy’s long career made Espy a witness and contributor to the development of diagnostic testing, from molecular testing to PCR to the antigen testing used today.

A common thread that Espy shares with Waggoner is their praise of WSU’s education.

“The faculty kind of treated us, you know, not just as students, but kind of as friends, future colleagues, and it was just an amazing experience,” Espy said. “I can’t say enough about my experience at Wright State.”

Espy had originally hoped to pursue medical school but decided to pursue microbiology due to test scores not meeting the required standards.

This led to Espy finding a passion for the field and the continuation of Espy’s studies at Wright State, and therefore Espy’s job at the Mayo Clinic through an advertisement in a trade magazine.

“Working at Mayo, I got to meet people. I got to do things, go places, and maybe had I got my Ph.D. or done something else, I would not have had that kind of opportunity,” Espy said.

WHERE THE TWO WORLDS MEET

Waggoner had originally pursued musical theater education but changed to an English major, which led to Waggoner’s career as a writer.

“You have a really great support network [at WSU]. You learn to be part of a community, kind of what today they call ‘literary citizens,’” Waggoner said. “You also learned, because you’re part of a community, that it’s not all about you.”

Waggoner always felt supported at WSU, crediting professors fostering his writing by never telling Waggoner he should write something else, which is often seen at other creative writing programs.

Many of Espy’s role models also worked on similar scientific projects as him, many of which attended or taught at Wright State University.

“Tom Smith. I can’t say enough about him. He likes it. He’s been retired for quite a while, but he was a giant in clinical virology, and I think, you know, without his vision, I don’t know that it would have gotten there as fast as it did. And like I said, he, I think, made me the scientist that I was while I was working,” Espy said.

Mayo Clinic Laboratories hails Dr. Smith as a “leading clinical virologist of the past five decades” who made great strides in the laboratory diagnosis of viral infections. Espy was also a mentor himself, mentoring and working with students on respective projects at the Mayo Clinic.

In addition to WSU’s professors, Waggoner found mentorship and inspiration in other writers who also took more unconventional paths to writership. Laird Barron’s work is similar to that of Waggoner’s: writing in the genres of horror, noir and dark fantasy.

ESPY’S PARTING ADVICE

The educational field continues to change, whether it be in the arts or sciences.

Even though Espy received his position at the Mayo Clinic with a masters degree, Espy reflects that that may not be enough in the current education sphere.

“I think I would tell somebody now, if they were going to, to get your M.D. or get your Ph.D. The opportunities for the master’s level I think have really lessened, and I think that’s a shame,” Espy said.

Espy also reflected on how the career itself has changed, now requiring more paperwork and regulatory process than the beginning of his career. Despite this, Espy recommends potentially following the fields of CRISPR and PCR diagnostic testing, as Espy sees great potential in these fields.

For those considering following Espy’s footsteps in the world of science, Espy leaves students a positive statement.

“Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, no one is perfect. If someone tells you [that] you should never make a mistake, they are wrong. Some of the greatest findings in medicine were discovered by mistake or accident. I learned more from my mistakes than from the things I did right,” Espy said.

WAGGONER’S PARTING ADVICE

Waggoner encourages students aiming to be writers to be open to trying new things, such as fiction, nonfiction books, self-publishing and traditional publishing, as students will never know what the new medium is going to be.

Waggoner’s advice for all students echoes that of Espys’.

“For students in general, I think what I would tell them is, whatever you’re doing in terms of classes or whatever it is, to seek out the things that give you energy instead of draining energy from you, because that often gives you an idea of what sometimes is really obvious to people, such as what you love,” Waggoner said.