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Lenoir-Rhyne University University School Journalism and Mass and Communication Program Lenoir-Rhyne of Journalism Mass Communication
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M O N T H L Y LENOIR-RHYNEAN NEWS
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Lenoir-Rhyne University School of Journalism and Mass Communication LENOIR-RHYNEAN NEWS
VOL. 110 — ISSUE 2
SEPTEMBER 2015
fESTIVA LR pResident
Lenoir-Rhyne University School of Journalism and Mass Communication
FROM CHAINS TOTOFREEDOM RETIRE LR pResident LENOIR-RHYNEAN NEWS
VOL. 110 — ISSUE 2
SEPTEMBER 2015
TO RETIRE
A MEDITATION ON RACIAL INJUSTICE Christopher Wilson | LRN Monthly Contributor
Junoir LR track athlete Lucas Besong speaks to his fellow protestors in Shaw Plaza on April 23. SAVANNAH LEE | LRN MONTHLY
Hearing chains clicking together, Linking slaves person to person, Hearing the auctioneer yell “sold,” Seeing the scratches and bruises on the hands and backs of anyone with dark skin, Witnessing the powerful, abuse the powerless, Still, we fought. Sirens heard, People screaming, yelling, fighting for the rights for you and me, From marching place to place, street to street and state to state, Fighting for a purpose, Canines gnawed on the flesh of black humans like Last Supper, Water cannons blasted black bodies against brick buildings, Still, we fought. 2021 – still, we fight. Aren’t you tired of it? Aren’t you tired of hearing about young boys and girls losing their life? Aren’t you tired of us tearing ourselves down? We as people should love each other no matter of our varying shades. We as people have to learn to respect each other, To understand that we all have a voice to use to change the world, that leads to freedom. We are the trees that our ancestors planted. We have deep roots, Unshakeable roots. We fell, but we got back up. We fought and fought, and we will still fight… Till freedom.
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PROFILE
LRN MONTHLY | MAY 2021
MORE PRECIOUS THAN RUBIES LR STUDENT TURNS HOBBY INTO SUCCESSFUL, GROWING BUSINESS Savannah Lee | LRN Monthly Sports Editor
In late 2019, Cortney McCall was working a typical retail job at a small boutique. She was required to dress stylishly and accessorize, which included wearing jewelry. Hours would go by, and by the end of her shift, McCall would notice that her ears had become sore and tender from the cheap metals used for the earrings. “I have super sensitive ears and I thought I would just make some earrings,” McCall said. “I googled ‘how to make earrings’ and polymer clay earrings popped up, so I went to Hobby Lobby, bought three colors and popped out my first batch.” She was able to find a solution that would allow her to accessorize pain-free. “I researched what the best backs were for people with sensitive ears and stainless steel came up,” McCall said. “They didn’t hurt my ears and I was able to wear earrings more often. I was wearing them on campus and at work.” Her new accessories were beginning to make a statement and fellow classmate, Madison Berry, wanted a pair for herself. Berry became McCall’s first customer, and she decided to start making more and sell them to friends and family. “When she was first starting to make earrings she would occasionally have some in her bag or car and show me what she was working on,” LR graduate, Delaney Dewy said. “I have bought over 20 pairs of her earrings and it has been fun to see how she continues to better her craft and challenge herself with new designs.” With the abundant amount of orders and success, McCall decided to make her hobby of creating jewelry a legitimate business and Carolina Ruby Rae was born. “She is more precious than rubies,” Proverbs 3:15. “I want every woman, no matter what they look like, to know that God made you more precious than a ruby. I want women to find their worth,” McCall said. “My goal as a business is to make jewelry and make the women wearing it feel beautiful.” One thing that has made her business unique from others and has contributed to its success is the connection she has with her customers. “Cortney has always been a people person; she never meets a stranger and if she does she treats them like she has known them forever. People are drawn to her personality,” McCall’s father, Jeremy
McCall said. “She strives for perfection in all that she does in this business, wanting the customer experience to be number one.” Something McCall does to make her customers feel special is naming her products after her most loyal ones. “The Delaney,” “The Kelli” and “The Alana” just to name a few, but by going on to the website, countless different styles named after different women can be seen. Currently you can purchase Carolina Ruby Rae at carolinarubyrae.com, Aqua B boutique, Mint + Modern LLC and various pop-up events in the greater Hickory and Charlotte area. Prices range from $8-$40 depending on the complexity of the design and the amount of materials used. Although you can purchase her pieces in various different locations, she has future plans for her expanding business. “In the next few years I plan to get clothing,” McCall said. “My ultimate goal is to have a storefront; I want to have a boutique where the customer can have a one-onone experience.”
ABOVE: Carolina Ruby Rae’s newest earring release is called Theresa's Basket collection. LEFT: The style of earrings that are reminiscent of yellow cheetahs are known as “The Kelli.”
LRN
RIGHT: Cortney McCall preps her newest collection for the baking process. SAVANNAH LEE| LRN MONTHLY
EDITORS:
Sarah C. Johnson | Editor-in-Chief Savannah Lee | Sports Editor
STAFF:
Kennedy Connor | Staff Writer Ajah Harold | Staff Writer Tate Levin | Staff Writer Jason Whitehead | Staff Writer
M O N T H L Y
Lenoir-Rhyne University School of Journalism and Mass Communication
CONTRIBUTORS: Blaine Dellinger Maddie Lane
Lydia Pilcher Sam Sawyer Makenna Seghers Mckayla Watts Rosie Weaver Christopher Wilson
FACULTY ADVISORS: Dr. Lisa Harris Prof. Richard Gould
NEWS
LRN MONTHLY | MAY 2021
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DOUBLE THE CELEBRATION 2020 AND 2021 GRADUATES GET TO WALK ACROSS THE STAGE Sarah C. Johnson | LRN Monthly Editor-in-Chief
Graduation is arguably one of the biggest parts of going to college. You work your butt off for four (or more) years to get your diploma and you finally get to celebrate that achievement with your friends, family and faculty. Unfortunately for the class of 2020, that celebration didn’t happen. Usually, the worst anyone ever expects for graduation is having to move inside due to rain or postpone for a day or two, but no one ever expected to wait an entire year due to a global pandemic. “We are all really excited about it because it’s a little taste of normal,” LR’s Dean of Students Dr. Katie Fisher said. “I was pleasantly surprised when I heard that about half, if not more by now, of last year’s class want to be here to walk.” LR’s 2020 graduates are eagerly anticipating their chance to finally walk across the stage. “I think it’s really cool that they’re giving us the opportunity to walk,” LR Alumni Dakota Sweat said. “This is something a lot of us looked forward to for four years and we were really upset when it was cancelled. I’m excited to see all of my friends and be back at LR.” This year’s graduates are just as excited for their ceremony. “I am happy that we are having graduation and bringing the previous class back so that they can also have graduation,” senior graphic design major Hannah Wright said. “We deserve the recognition for making it this far, through a pandemic, no less.” According to the LR website, both ceremonies will be held on the same day. On May 7, the class of 2021’s commencement will begin at 9 a.m. and the class of 2020’s will begin at 7 p.m. in Moretz Stadium. “It does sadden me that we can only have four tickets this year,” senior multimedia communication major Savannah Lee said. “Most of my family and friends won’t get to witness one of the most important days of my life.” Of course, there will be rules in place for students, faculty and quests to follow to keep everyone as safe as possible. “Students are only having four guests. That’s four people total, it doesn’t matter how old or young,” Fisher said. “If the person is three it doesn’t matter, they are a person so they have to have their own ticket and part of that is because of state mandates for how many people can be in the space.” The 2021 commencement will be held first since it will be the longest ceremony. The ceremonies will be done as quickly as possible to help ensure everyone gets to be recognized in case there is any chance of rain. “If it rains, we don’t have another spot really to do the full graduation.” Fisher said. “But in that case, even though it will be vastly different, we will make sure that you all get to walk across some stage somewhere.”
Nikolai Patterson, 2021 Business graduate. SUBMITTED PHOTO
Lauren Russell, 2021 Finance graduate. SUBMITTED PHOTO
Savannah Lee, 2021 Multimedia Communication graduate. SUBMITTED PHOTO Joe Bear celebrates graduation by tossing his cap in the air in front of Moretz Gymnasium. SARAH C. JOHNSON | LRN MONTHLY
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PHOTO ESSAY
LRN MONTHLY | MAY 2021
WE’RE STILL FIGHTING LR STUDENTS PROTESTED RACISM AT OUR SCHOOL Staff Reports
On April 22 and 23, students at Lenoir-Rhyne University’s Hickory campus marched from Hickory’s City Hall to the university and back. While marching through campus, students gathered in Shaw Plaza to share their emotional testimonies of the discrimination they have faced in silence during their times at LR.
LR students get hyped as they begin dancing and chanting in front of LR's Moretz Gymnasium during the April 22 protest. SARAH C. JOHNSON | LRN MONTHLY
LR students held protest signs as they listened to their peers stand up one by one to tell heart breaking stories of how they have been discriminated against during their time at LR. SARAH C. JOHNSON | LRN MONTHLY
LR sutdents march down 8th Ave. NE, in front of the Hickory Career and Arts Magnet High School on their way to the LR Hickory Campus on April 22. SARAH C. JOHNSON | LRN MONTHLY
“I just want to say that we’re all here, we’re all standing and we’re all fighting for something that has been talked about, something that has been an idea in this country for the longest time. Racism is still alive. Segregation is still alive. I just talked about this university being a Christian school. This is a Lutheran college, and a lot of Christians go here. People want to talk about it and pray about it – I said. ‘Faith without works is dead.’ That’s what it says in the bible – The. Bible. The one that we read and live by.… We need to get out here, we need to keep talking and keep posting.” – Melody Jones LR freshman track athlete Melody Jones gets emotional as she speaks directly to the University Provost Dr. Gary Johnson on April 22. SARAH C. JOHNSON | LRN MONTHLY
PHOTO ESSAY
LRN MONTHLY | MAY 2021
LR senoir track athlete Saidah Hardwick poses with her protest sign in the midst of her peers on April 22. SARAH C. JOHNSON | LRN MONTHLY
LR students were seen marching past "The Charge" on their way through the campus to University President Dr. Fred Whitt's house, Thursday, April 22. SARAH C. JOHNSON | LRN MONTHLY
LR Black Student Alliance President Devine Drummond confronts University Provost Dr. Gary Johnson on April 22. SARAH C. JOHNSON | LRN MONTHLY
“I just want to say that I appreciate everyone for coming out. Regardless of understanding or being able to empathize with us; thank you for coming because it spoke measures. It takes initiative, it takes a start, and it takes an effort to make a change. If you don’t come out and you don’t take the time outside of your day to educate yourself or even to be involved in the slightest way, or even just asking ‘How are you doing?’ or just checking up on someone, then there is no way for you to get better. There is no way for you to empathize and help your allies, or to be an ally actually.” – Devine Drummond Protestors gathered in front of LR University President Dr. Fred Whitt's home to demand justice for the ladies who have faced descrimination on the LR Women's Basketball Team, on April 22. SARAH C. JOHNSON | LRN MONTHLY
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OPINION
LRN MONTHLY | MAY 2021
THIS MOVIE SUCKS
“GODZILLA VS. KONG” DOES A GREAT JOB AT MAKING A MONKEY FIGHT A LIZARD … AND A TERRIBLE JOB AT EVERYTHING ELSE
Tate Levin | LRN Monthly Staff Writer
Once upon a time, two Hollywood classics were made. They dealt with themes like slavery, the consequences of nuclear testing, and the dangers of trying to control nature. They changed the film industry for the foreseeable future, and influenced generations of artists and filmmakers to come. These two films were “King Kong” (1933), and “Godzilla”
(1954). Unfortunately, much like other groundbreaking substantive films, the deep themes and purposes have been lost in the greedy child-like minds of today's big budget movie moguls. It seems that explosions and mindless entertainment will always make more money than commentary on our own flawed human nature. “Godzilla vs. Kong,” is the latest installment in Warner Bros.’ monster cinematic universe and it’s loud, proud, and devoid of any logic or purpose. But it does seem to be entertaining the popcorn munching public with massive action spectacles driven by the countless deaths of civilians at the hands (and feet) of giant monsters who appear to love (or hate) big cities. When Godzilla proves to once again be a threat to humanity, the little people of planet Earth decide that trusting a big angry lizard to protect them
maybe wasn’t such a great idea, and he needs to be stopped. That’s where Mr. Monkey himself comes into the plot. King Kong (who’s grown substantially since his last movie) is now friends with a little deaf girl who serves as the emotional backbone to the story. Meanwhile, powerful tech company Apex also has some tricks up their sleeves. They plan to build a Mecha-Godzilla using science that makes total sense to go up against the real Godzilla. Only guess what? Things don’t go as planned. That’s when this movie starts to twist and turn in its own idiocy. It gets to the point where the human characters are so paper thin and annoying that you get excited when a building falls or screams are heard, because the animals start to seem like the smart ones when the writers don’t have to worry about any dialogue for them (except Kong does start using sign language. Dang it).
When the ridiculous dialogue becomes more laughable than the actual humor, you know you’ve got a real team of Tarantinos manning the writer’s room. Too bad every 20 minutes there’s an action sequence requiring a whole scene of exposition so the audience can almost comprehend the computer generated eye candy. This film is just a series of fight scenes cobbled together with exposition. The scenes that aren’t monsters battling are only there to explain why the next fight is about to happen. Even with talented actors like Kyle Chandler and Rebecca Hall leading the cast, not a word said can be taken seriously. The best part about this is that it's available to stream on HBO Max, and if anyone needs to turn their brains off for almost two hours and forget about the existence of physics, this is the dumpster you need today.
MAKING THE TIME TO SHINE
HOW YOU CAN FIND YOUR CAREER AND SCHOLARSHIPS THROUGH CAMPUS INVOLVEMENT AT LR first post-college job? Many of us are wondering, “What’s the point of getting a degree if I’ll be in debt the rest of my life?” Or even, “Why should I go to college if I’m not going to get a job doing what I actually have my degree in?” Maybe a graduating senior can share some hard won wisdom. Maybe I can even help you find ways of avoiding some of that debt and even improve your chances of getting a job in your field once you complete that LR degree. Ajah Harold | LRN Monthly Staff Writer
Balloons, streamers and cake are always fun – and you’ll deserve it after all the time and effort you’ve put into graduating. But what’s the next step? College grads get to worry about finding a job, or maybe even our dream career, so we can get started on paying off our college loans. It sure seems simple enough, so why is it such a struggle, a hassle even, to get that
• Internships Internships are so vital as the stepping stones into any desired career field. Communication majors can get some experience on the sidelines with coaches commentating the latest football or basketball game, which is perfect – if you want to become a broadcaster. Regardless of which dream you have it’s important to talk with your advisor about
opportunities on campus and to build connections with them. It’ll get you a long way, professionally and academically. Theatre majors can intern at the Hickory Community Theatre where they can work with Artistic Director, Eric Seale, to get the scoop on what’s happening in the theatre world during COVID-19. It’s fun working with lights, sound and even getting into character with the actors on stage. If you or anyone you know, aspires to be a director, screenwriter or actor then interning at this theatre will higher your chance of employment after graduation. • The next step Applying for scholarships and getting involved on campus will help lessen your college debt. Everyone wonders how they’ll pay back their student loans. There are so many talented students on campus
at Lenoir-Rhyne, athletically, academically and artistically. Applying for scholarships and talking with Assistant Dean of Lenoir-Rhyne University, Katie Wohlman, will help guide you to those scholarships and grants. So, why is involvement on campus important? Because it shows that you care for your community and can juggle service work with your academic responsibilities (and maybe even a sport or a social life.) Become a part of the Student Government Association, Debate team, Campus Activities Board or join a fraternity or sorority. There are so many opportunities on campus – they’re impossible to miss. You can walk around the Cromer Center and you’ll see banners with different club names written all over them. Make connections, build a great resume, and find job opportunities by maximizing diverse experiences. Get up, get out, get some experience and get that job!
Lenior-Rhyne University
OPINION
SPEAK UP AND SPEAK OUT
LRN MONTHLY | MAY 2021
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I’D LIKE TO EXPLAIN WHY I JOINED THE LR PROTESTS
Sarah C. Johnson | LRN Monthly Editor-in-Chief
“We are tired! We! Are! Tired!” This is just one of the various chants that could be heard through the streets of Hickory and the campus of Lenoir-Rhyne University as students marched from City Hall to Shaw Plaza on April 22 and 23. Over my six years here at LR, I have witnessed many things both good and bad, but what has come to light in the past couple weeks made me sick to my stomach. I was no longer proud to be an LR Bear. I
understand why my peers of color are tired. This has been an issue for far too long. Many of the students who shared stories said they were accustomed to insensitive and racist comments. That hit me the hardest. No one should ever become accustomed to disrespect of any kind, that is the problem. Most of you probably know by now that an external investigation of the LR Women’s Basketball Team has been initiated due to accusations of racism and lack of response from coaches. These accusations have made me sick and they’ve fueled the fight against social injustice on our campus. According to an Instagram post by @ breatheofficialpage, several white basketball players have said things like, “American Indians were oppressed, that’s just how the world works,” “You people went from doing our laundry to being our RA’s,” and that Coach Grahm Smith responded to a players posting about Breonna Taylor’s death by stating “People don’t need to educated on what they don’t want to be educated on.”
One of the many powerful sign that LR students carried during the protest on April 22. SARAH C. JOHNSON | LRN MONTHLY
I have been an advocate for social justice and BLM for a long time through my artwork and writings. I have bi-racial nephews and a bi-racial boyfriend. I’ve watched people actively avoid crossing our paths while walking down the street, the whispers, and the hateful looks. I have been followed in the store when I have one of my nephews with me, but that never happens when I’m by myself. I knew there were racists in Hickory, but never did I imagine how bad it was on our campus. I have had friends be harassed while walking to class by strangers driving by shouting racial slurs and even death threats. However, I had never been aware that many of my friends and acquaintances have been enduring these things from their own teammates and peers – but sadly I am not surprised. Originally, I had planned to attend the protests in my role as an impartial journalist. I had planned to merely observe, but when I met up with the people marching, I decided to lay down my pen and pick up a sign. I realized that I couldn’t say I support my friends, family and everyone else that has been
affected unless I was actively doing something about it. And it felt damn good to break out of my comfort zone and speak up. I did it because the moment I got there, I thought about my eight-year-old nephew Jax. He’s always loved visiting the LR campus with me and every time he comes here, he says he wants to attend LR when he grows up so he can be just like me. When I heard the chant “Silence, Silence is compliance,” I knew I couldn’t keep quiet. I had to make some noise, so Jax and his brothers don’t have to when they are my age. The main thing I want people to take away from this is that we all have to be willing to step out of our comfort zones to make a change. Change is uncomfortable. Embrace that discomfort. I know many people aren’t bold enough to go protest, but if you support an idea find ways that you can contribute to help. Don’t just say you support the cause – actions are louder than words – take a stand in whatever way you can.
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PHOTO ESSAY
LRN MONTHLY | MAY 2021
CLICKING IT OLD SCHOOL LEAVING DIGITAL BEHIND AND LEADING INTO 35MM FILM Sarah C. Johnson | LRN Monthly Editor-in-Chief
People have been taking photos on film since the 1860s. Me, I’ve always shot with digital cameras and cellphones, but this semester I decided to try my hand at capturing images like the legends of photography always have. So, I broke out the old 35mm camera and started snapping pictures. I’ve enjoyed the process and now I like working with film even
more than digital. Digital is so instant, it takes the fun out of it for me. With film photography, you never know what’s going to pop up until you develop the film in the darkroom and print your photo. It can be nerve wracking, but to me the mystery’s the fun of it. I love watching the image slowly appear as the paper sits in the tub of developing chemicals. Watching my work reveal itself feels like unwrapping a
present. My work is usually focused on dynamic action, but since I’m working with a different medium, I decided it would be fun to show off an artsier style of photography.
My dad, Paul Johnson, shows off his new tractor as he gets ready to go bushhog our fields. SARAH C. JOHNSON | LRN MONTHLY
My sweet 11-year-old dog Arrow smiled widely for his picture. SARAH C. JOHNSON | LRN MONTHLY
Close up of the headlight on my dad's '04 XL1200 Custom Sportster Harley Davidson. SARAH C. JOHNSON | LRN MONTHLY
Close up of my dad's Ford 2000 tractor. SARAH C. JOHNSON | LRN MONTHLY
PHOTO ESSAY
LRN MONTHLY | MAY 2021 My boyfriend Quayvon Moody posing on a bridge in Charlotte. SARAH C. JOHNSON | LRN MONTHLY
Closeup of LR's statue "The Blessed Family," which is located beside Grace Chapel. SARAH C. JOHNSON | LRN MONTHLY
Close up of the custom chrome flame rims on my dad's '04 XL1200 Custom Sportster Harley Davidson. SARAH C. JOHNSON | LRN MONTHLY
Old gears that I use as decoration leaning against the railroad ties that my grandpa used as the boarder for the flowerbed in front of my house. SARAH C. JOHNSON | LRN MONTHLY
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FRESH VOICES
LRN MONTHLY | MAY 2021
FINDING THE RIGHT CLASS FOR YOU BEST CLASSES AND PROFESSORS AT LR
No matter how long you are at LR, we all have that one favorite professor and that one class that just hits a little bit differently than all the others. For this installment of our Fresh Voices Series, our LR freshman tell us about their favorite professors and classes from their first year.
PUBLIC ATTENTION: IS THE LOCH WHY YOU PROFESSOR SPEAKING CAN CALLING ALL LR NESS MONSTER SHOULD WRIGHT: THE REAL? CONSIDER TAKING BE PAINLESS RIGHT PROFESSOR MATH FANATICS MICROBIOLOGY FOR YOU
Blaine Dellinger | LRN Monthly Contributor
My favorite class is a humanities course called Conspiracy Theories and it’s taught by my favorite professor Cade Hamilton. I like this class because it’s not a ton of work but it’s very interesting. We learn a lot about different conspiracies that nobody really knows the truth about. Who really shot JFK – and why? Is Sasquatch real – and does he live in North Carolina? In Conspiracy Theories we start with what we’ve heard, then we do the research and fact finding and then we choose what to believe for ourselves. Prof. Cade Hamilton is not strict or stuck up at all. He’s very easy going. He’s also approachable if you need help or do not understand something. He does believe in second chances, so that saves me a lot of stress if I mess up something. Out of all of the classes I’m in, (except for Carolina Adventurers Club) I’ve learned the most in Conspiracy Theories; these are the only classes I can actually stay focused in. My favorite Conspiracy Theories project was writing a paper and making a slide presentation on the Loch Ness monster. I’d always heard a lot about the Loch Ness monster but it was interesting to learn the details of the legend. I enjoy learning about history, legends and the facts behind them. I really recommend Conspiracy Theories with Prof. Cade Hamilton because you will learn about the real facts, instead of just the rumors, about things like the JFK assassination, the Illuminati, and my favorite one: Area 51. It is always good to get educated on these types of things and to know the history of some of the big things that have happened – or may have happened. I would recommend any class Hamilton teaches. He’s the coach of LR’s Debate team, which has won the national championship, and he teaches classes on debate – in case you just want to learn how to win an argument, but you’re not ready to join the team. And he teaches COM 111 speech classes too. You’ll definitely have to do some work in Conspiracy Theories because we do have a pretty good bit, but it’s all pretty interesting. We do a different conspiracy every week. We write up a brief on it, then we comment on the other briefs that our classmates present. And it’s fine if you have any different thoughts on what they say. A lot of times we all have some of the same ideas, so we all just talk about the same thing. I really enjoy everything about this whole class from the conspiracy theories themselves to the class discussions to the professor himself. I really recommend giving Hamilton and his Conspiracy Theory class a shot. It may take a couple weeks to get the hang of things, but once you do get in depth with the conspiracies you’re going to find yourself having a good time.
Josie Hise | LRN Monthly Contributor Lydia Pilcher | LRN Monthly Contributor
I’ve always enjoyed taking science classes, especially biology and health sciences. So far my favorite class at LR has been Microbiology, which is taught by Dr. Dan Grimm. If you enjoy learning and you’re looking for a challenge, this might just be the class for you. Microbiology is the study of microorganisms and pathogens that cause disease and infection. So far in the class, we have learned about the origins of microbiology and some of the first scientists who laid the foundation for this field. We have learned about the different types and classifications of microorganisms, how each of them is unique and their characteristics and functions. Before I took this course I had no idea there were so many types of microorganisms and that they had different categories, like prokaryotes and eukaryotes, and I’ve enjoyed learning about all of them. Another thing that we’ve learned is how microbes replicate and how viruses spread. This has been interesting to learn because we’ve been in the midst of a COVID-19 global pandemic and understanding how the virus spreads has been helpful. This class has taught me about how pathogens can cause infection and how that infection can affect the host. We’ve also learned about some specific infectious diseases, their causes, and how those diseases can be treated. Another interesting aspect of the class is the lab portion. In a normal class, you’d go to lab every week, but due to our altered class schedule, we go every other week. In the lab, we use microscopes to look at actual bacteria. We’ve been transferring bacterial cultures from a sample to a plate in order for the cells to incubate and grow. We learned the steps for how to stain a sample then after the bacteria grows, we can practice those skills and stain the cell so that we can view it under the microscope. I have enjoyed the lab portion because I’ve learned several things about lab procedures, and I’ve been able to actually practice what I’ve learned in class in a hands-on way that I could only accomplish in the lab. Even though the exams can be overwhelming because there’s so much information to study, Dr. Dan Grimm is a great professor and he’s been very encouraging and helpful. He’s a good lecturer, and he tries to make the material interesting instead of just reading the information off the PowerPoints. This class has challenged me, but I’ve learned so much that I can hopefully use in my future career choice. This class is required for nursing majors and others who plan to enter the medical field.
Mckayla Watts | LRN Monthly Contributor Makenna Seghers | LRN Monthly Contributor
This semester I’m taking Speech Communication (COM 111) with Professor William (Bill) Richter and I highly recommend that you do the same. Let me explain. Public speaking has never been easy for me, and when I found out LR required me to take a speech class I was very nervous, but Dr. Richter has really made this a class where I could excel this semester. He’s a great professor who knows what he’s talking about, gives great points on how to give a speech and how to approach it. He posts lectures on our Canvas page that are all about giving a speech and he provides examples so we know what’s expected before we have to present our speeches in class. I love how he makes sure we know that people mess up all the time and he explains that anxiety’s normal when giving a speech. He even gives us tips and pointers to avoid this. He’s also very quick to respond to emails from his students. It’s a nice change because nobody wants to wait three days for a professor to respond to a question about an assignment, which is now due the next day. Another thing that I really like about him is that he always finishes class by announcing what we’re doing next week and letting us know when we need to sign up for the next speech. Although I still kind of hate giving speeches and talking in front of people, I actually liked this class as much as I can like a speech class. I’m learning a valuable skill that will be useful no matter what I do in the future. Throughout this semester I’ve seen myself improving with every speech and becoming more confident. For example, during our first speech I had my hands in my pockets, sat behind the podium the entire time and had poor eye contact. Now I move around a bit and I’m not afraid to gesture if I need to. I like that I can actually see and feel myself making physical improvements in my public speaking skills. I’ve also enjoyed this class because I’ve been able to give some pretty fun speeches. For one speech we had to talk about three things we’d bring to a desert island, but there were rules. We could only bring a book, cd, or movie, which was just a unique twist on a classic question. For my favorite speech of the year I taught the class how to tie knots – which was something I’d only just learned the day before. It was fun to learn something different that I’ve already put to use in my normal life. I’ve also taken Dr. Richter’s class on Sitcoms and Society (HUM 188) and I can tell you he’s a great teacher in all his classes. But his speech communication class is especially awesome and I would definitely recommend it.
When I signed up for microeconomics I worried it would be a lackluster class, where keeping my eyes open just a crack might be impossible, especially at 8 a.m. I found myself taken aback when I walked into Dr. Jeff Wright’s classroom. It might be an 8 a.m. class, but you’ll have no trouble staying awake. Prof. Wright has found a way to make his class engaging and easy to apply to life even when the concepts are tough to grasp. For one thing he pauses during the lecture to make sure you can actually take down all your notes before you're three sections behind from writing one sentence of information. He even posts his notes on Canvas. Don’t like homework or tests? This class is for you! Obviously Dr. Wright will need you to produce proof that you’ve understood the class concepts, but he just doesn’t use traditional tests or homework to accomplish that goal. What you’ll do instead are something Dr. Wright called KDOs. They are basically tests, but instead of 30 or 50 questions on a typical test, Wright’s KDOs are limited to four short-answer questions which allow demonstrate that you’ve grasped the concepts being covered. There are also only four or five of these KDOs for the whole semester. This concept was terrifying to me at first. I thought if I bombed one my grade would be down the drain for the whole semester. That didn’t happen. I found that this style of evaluation is really nice for anyone who’s not a strong test taker. This way you have time to think over how you’re going to present your answer, and if you’re on the right track you’ll get partial credit. Just add as much detail as possible and make sure you fully answer the question and show that you know how to apply the information you learned in class in a real world situation. This class can count as a credit towards the Human Society and Behavior requirement, according to LR’s website. If you plan to go into business, it’s required. Therefore, I think just about everyone should take this class. I’d recommend this class because it gives you real world knowledge. I left class feeling like I have used my brain and learned new information, but not so much information that I feel overwhelmed. His testing style is also very nice because if you show up and pay attention in class you’ll excel on the exams. I think it’s nice for anyone who struggles with time management because outside of class there’s not much there for you to worry about, with the exception of doing your KDO every few weeks and turning it in. I really did not think I would enjoy microeconomics this much and I think I do enjoy it this much because of Dr. Wright. I would highly recommend this professor.
As the time comes for you to apply for your fall courses, there’s a lot you need to consider. Although you want college to be fun and easy, you need to focus on finding a major that fits your skills and interests. And you need to figure out which classes are required for your degree. When it comes to choosing your major, pick something you're actually interested in, not something random, or something that sounds easy, or one all your friends are doing. You can always change your major if you change your mind. I’ve always enjoyed math, but I’m also a person who sometimes has a hard time understanding it. I know how ironic that sounds, but once I learn how to do a specific problem the right way, I really enjoy doing it – it’s very fun for me. That being said, I strongly recommend MAT 125 (Finite Mathematics) with Professor Doug Burkholder. Finite Mathematics is necessary and extremely useful for the future. In high school I wondered why we learned some of the equations and formulas they required. They seemed useless. Well, after taking this class, I’ve learned to understand the problems and equations, why I might need them, and how I can use them in the future. This class is perfect for math majors because it provides faster and easier ways to find solutions, including using spreadsheet programs. Dr. Burkholder has been one of my favorite professors so far. He’s really helpful when it comes to learning. He makes learning math easy and fun. He makes sure to explain everything very clearly and he works through the problems slowly, making sure everyone understands and is ready to move on. He’s a very considerate person and is extremely understanding when it comes to missing assignments. It’s obvious that he wants to see every single student pass his class and succeed. The homework assigned for his class is not too much or too little, but the perfect amount. This allows us to be able to answer questions on our own and understand them as well without overloading us with too much homework to the point where we are exhausted or bored. Dr. Burkholder’s homework is also the perfect level of challenging. It isn’t so easy that you don’t learn anything, and it isn’t so hard that you are confused and frustrated. It requires you to think a little, but put in some effort and you’ll have a good shot at solving and understanding the problem. Burkholder does an amazing job creating and maintaining a personal connection with his students. Since the beginning of the course, he has insisted that we call him Dr. B, and consistently emails or sends messages on Canvas to check on us. I’ve really enjoyed being a student in Burkholder’s class this semester. I hope you sign up and enjoy being a part of his class as well.
FRESH VOICES
LRN MONTHLY | MAY 2021
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW
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ADVISE FROM FIRST YEAR LR STUDENTS
For our very last installment of the LRN Fresh Voices series, we asked our freshman in the Carolina Adventurers Club to tell you what they wish they’d known about being a college freshman. From exploring your new home to finding balance in everyday life, here’s everything you need to know about how to survive your first-year at LR.
SPORTS, CAREERS AND SCIENCE – OH MY
LEARNING FINDING THE ROPES: BALANCE ALL ABOUT LR BETWEEN FUN AND WORK
Makenna Seghers | LRN Monthly Contributor
Rosie Weaver | LRN Monthly Contributor
Even though a full year of COVID-19 restrictions made college quite a bit different than what I (or anybody else) was expecting, I was still able to take advantage of several resources available on campus and I got to explore the Hickory area. Here are some things I just wish I’d have known to do earlier: 1. 2. 3.
Speak to LR’s Career Counselor Katie Wohlman Go to the Catawba Science Center Go watch LR’s sports teams compete
First, you should know that LR’s Career Development Center is located in the Mauney-Schaffer building. I spoke to the center’s Director Katie Wohlman, because she specializes in helping students develop our personal resumes. She also helps students prepare for interviews including practicing by conducting mock interviews, giving students career advice and she can even help you attain proper business attire. Wohlman helped me prepare for a presentation I had in my Business Management class. This experience helped me construct and develop my presentation while becoming more confident with public speaking. I would highly recommend the Career Development Center if you’re in need of help with anything relating to both your school and professional life. Then there’s the Catawba Science Center. While this attraction isn’t on LR’s campus, it’s only about a mile from campus and makes a great day out. It is around $8 per person for the day and there’s so much to see and do including an aquarium, a taxidermy section and lots of hands-on science exhibits. It will definitely keep you entertained for half a day and it is within walking distance from campus! Furthermore, if your friends and family come to visit you while here at LR and you are unsure as to what to do, I would recommend you take them to the Science Center. Now for the sports: Being from England I’ve never experienced such a vast variety of sports from tennis to football, from lacrosse to baseball. Whilst I didn’t always understand what was going on, I definitely enjoyed getting out and experiencing some Bear Spirit in the stands. The sport that I found I got the most into, which surprised me the most, was tennis. I always thought I would find tennis boring, however, I was pleasantly surprised. It’s non-stop action and high drama. Don’t miss out on all that LR has to offer. Most of us are here because we want to get a good job once we graduate, so make sure you get to know Katie Wohlman and her staff. You’re going to need to take a break and have some fun, so don’t miss out on the Science Center – it’s so close by. And what’s the point of going to a college that’s so dedicated to sport that we have 22 athletic teams – if you’re not going to attend the games and show off all that Bear pride? Do yourself a favour and take my advice.
After attending Lenoir-Rhyne University for a year I’ve learned a few things. Be wise and take my advice. The first thing I think freshmen should know is that it might seem awkward or scary to be the only one asking questions and making comments in class. But do it! I learned when you put yourself out there it allows you to connect with more people – more importantly, most professors seem to enjoy you as a student more. I know I sometimes feel that I’m being annoying or maybe someone thinks I'm asking too many questions or answering too many questions, but it’s worth it. Besides, questions allow you to gather as much information as possible. I think having the professors know you as more than a pair of eyeballs behind a COVID face mask helps you – especially if you're ever in a situation where class and another activity conflict with one another. For example, I had a psychology test on the day my LR triathlon team was racing, but because I was comfortable communicating in person with that teacher, I didn’t have to miss either event. I just had to make up the test at another time instead of doing the research paper which is the normal make up option. I also think this is another “well duh” type of advice that needs to be heard. All first semester, I didn’t have an efficient system to keep track of when my assignments were due. I’ve never been much of a planner and listing out my assignments on a google Excel sheet just was not for me either. During my second semester, I found these Days of the Week Post-Its. I’d never used them, but they’ve become my salvation. I spend every Friday jotting my next two weeks’ assignments in different colors so I can see how to manage my time. This system has worked wonders for me. If you haven’t found a system that works for you, I say keep looking until you do. You’ll thank yourself later. My last bit of advice is that if you have breaks in your schedule, take advantage of them. Go out and see some things. My schedule last semester was pretty nice – I only had to be in the classroom on Mondays and Tuesdays. I had to practice for my triathlon team, but I still had plenty of time to go out and explore my newly-adopted state. If you don’t live in N.C. or heck even if you do, GO EXPLORE. I told myself I was always too busy, but if you manage your time and workload, you’ll discover that you can mix fun with work. And you’ll be able to go hiking and discover a few waterfalls. College education is important, but you only live once and North Carolina has so many different sites to see, make sure you don't miss them.
Madison Lane | LRN Monthly Contributor
Some say every freshman’s experience of their first semester at college is either great or it's awful. For me, it was somewhere in between. Now this isn’t because of any teachers or any drama that went on, it’s because I procrastinate so much. I procrastinated every assignment until the very last minute. It got to the point where, whenever I started working on it, it was either too late or I didn’t have enough time to complete it. I’ve always been told to avoid procrastination, but being at college for the first time – the temptation was often just too strong. And I had to learn how to interact with new people in my classes that I didn’t know, and how to make friends on my own. As for procrastinating, I just suggest that you don’t do it because I can promise you that you will get behind, your grades will slip, and you will be stressed out of your mind – unless, you know, maybe working under crazy pressure and stress is your favorite thing. Here’s how to study: Take 30 minutes to an hour each day and go over what you learned that day in class and make sure you know what assignments you have coming up. Now, I know some of you are like me and you’re saying, “It’ll take too long!” Come on – it’s three hours a day max, and I know y’all spend more time than that on your phone or watching Netflix! As for the interacting with people in class part – that’s still pretty tricky for me. Just remember: These people sitting beside you are in the same boat as you and most likely don’t know anyone either, so you taking the first step will go a long way toward making new friends. Don’t forget: You’re only a college freshman once, so have fun, do your schoolwork, and don’t stress about everything. Try to figure out how to be a book worm without being a total book worm and try to have fun without having too much fun. And finally I wish someone had told me sooner about the LR’s CAB, Campus Activities Board – better known as CAB. They host so many awesome events that all the students can go to and participate in, and the best part is it's completely free. Me and my friends call CAB free therapy, and it honestly is. My favorite was laser tag on the football field. It didn’t matter who you were at LR, they treated everyone the same and the best part was that we got to run around the football field with other students, random students we didn’t know and burn throughout all the stress we’d built up. So, if I got to re-do my freshman year I wouldn’t have procrastinated as much; I wouldn’t have overdone it on the fun and I would’ve leaned into making new friends in the classroom.
BEARS! BEARS! BEARS! BEARS!
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GOODBYE
LRN MONTHLY | MAY 2021
BITTERSWEET FAREWELL SENDING OFF OUR FAVORITE PROFESSOR
By: Sarah Johnson | LRN Monthly Editor-in-Chief and Savannah Lee | LRN Monthly Sports Editor
Johnson: “Where do I even begin? My favorite professor, mentor and friend is leaving LR. I will greatly miss him, and maybe I am biased, but LR is losing one of the best professors they have ever had – Richard Gould, LRN Monthly Faculty Advisor and Professor of Journalism. I mean what professor – other than Gould—would dress up as Magnum P.I. just to teach a lesson? Earlier this semester, I found out the school is getting rid of the LRN Monthly, and as a result, they have decided not to extend Gould’s contract for next year. Gould, I hope you know how much of an impact you have made on my life. I wouldn’t have found my passion for journalism if it weren’t for you. The past three years of knowing you have been so rewarding. Thank you for always being willing to listen to me when I needed it, always being bluntly honest and always pushing me to be my best. I know you will continue being awesome elsewhere, but even though I am graduating, LR won’t be the same without you. Lee: “A few days ago, I was asked what I would miss most after I left LR. Most people would say their friends, the parties or the games, but my answer was my professor, Richard Gould. I’m grateful that I was able to be in the majority of his classes, and even when I wasn’t, he somehow convinced me to help out as his Classroom Assistant for his FYE class about North Carolina. I have learned more from him than all my other professors combined. I am honored to be one of his last students and I hope he knows he truly changed my life.” Gould: “I’ve spent a decade here, and in that time, I’ve taught a dozen different courses at this university. So much has changed at this school, but the one constant foundation is that it’s the students who make this job worthwhile. When you have the privilege to teach someone like Sarah Johnson, or Savannah Lee, that’s the kind of experience I’ll take with me for the rest of my life. Watching my students find their voices, learn to lead a team of their peers, create compelling journalism – I know how lucky I was to get to watch that progress again and again. Sarah, Savannah, it’s been an honor. I’m so lucky to have had the chance to meet you and all those students like you. My only regret is that I won’t be able to do that anymore here at Lenoir-Rhyne University. From the bottom of my heart: Thank You.”
LRN Monthly Editor-in-Chief Sarah Johnson and LRN Monthly Faculty Advisor Richard Gould pose with their awards from the 2021 Honors Convocation. SUBMITTED PHOTO
Prof. Richard Gould dressed as a character he called Thomas Magnum, a.k.a Magnum P.I., to make a point about noticing details during his Media Writing class. SARAH C. JOHNSON | LRN MONTHLY
LRN Monthly Faculty Advisor Richard Gould sits in a haze of confusion as his LRN staff from the 2019-2020 school year laugh about TikTok and other trends that he can't understand because he's a "boomer." SARAH C. JOHNSON | LRN MONTHLY