Longwood University Digital Commons @

Rotunda Library, Special Collections, and Archives

4-29-2019

Rotunda - Vol 97, no 25 - Apr 29, 2019

Longwood University

Follow this and additional works at: https://digitalcommons.longwood.edu/rotunda

Recommended Citation Longwood University, "Rotunda - Vol 97, no 25 - Apr 29, 2019" (2019). Rotunda. 2222. https://digitalcommons.longwood.edu/rotunda/2222

This Article is brought to you for free and open access by the Library, Special Collections, and Archives at Digital Commons @ Longwood University. It has been accepted for inclusion in Rotunda by an authorized administrator of Digital Commons @ Longwood University. For more information, please contact [email protected], [email protected]. TheROTUNDA Cramming for finals since 1920

STAYING AT THE TOP

A&E PAGE 3 A universe comes to a celebratory end

SPORTS PAGE 7 looks to make final push before BSC tourney

EDITORIALS PAGES 9–11

Seniors reflect on their APRIL 29, 2019 time in The Rotunda VOL 97. ISSUE 24 CARRIE BAILEY | THE ROTUNDA 02 > NEWS TheRotundaOnline.com

EDITORIAL BOARD 2019 rachael poole editor-in-chief tj wengert managing editor jeff halliday, mike mergen and clint wright faculty advisers NEWS ROTUNDA ALLISON TURNER staff STUDIOS ELLIE STUCK A&E staff JACOB DILANDRO ADDIE CLARKE editor staff LEDANIEL JACKSON SUTTON REEKES A message from the staff staff LIAM WELLS OPINIONS staff EDITOR-IN-CHIEF TAIYA JARRETT XARIAH GODFREY by Rachael Poole | Editor-in-Chief | @rapoole17 staff staff DAVINA APPLEWHITE or the last Rotunda edition of the 2018-19 year and as campus gets staff LAYOUT ready for finals week and graduation, I found it fitting to write my first ANGELI LEONG "Letter from the Editor" as the new Editor-in-Chief. SPORTS editor F On behalf of The Rotunda, I would like to give a special spotlight to our KURT MARTIN LAUREN QUEZADA editor assistant editor seniors. In this edition, we've extended the length of the magazine to make editor-in-chief pro-tempore MASON VEST sure each of our graduating seniors have one more opportunity to put their PATRICK SANDERSON staff name on our publication before they graduate. assistant editor Our seniors have been a driving force for this organization in the time NICK LEWIS PHOTO they've been here and deserve the utmost recognition for their hard work. TAYLOR O’BERRY staff Being a part of a news organization is no simple task - a lot of late nights and rotunda studios staff editor BRANDON CHEUNG care go into it. COPY assistant editor This year, we are sending off seven of the best: Christine Rindfleisch, former SARA HOLDSWORTH JACOB PUTERKO editor-in-chief; Erin Eaton, former managing editor; Nicole Del Rosario, editor assistant editor former Rotunda Studios executive producer; Eva Wittkoski, former assistant business manager CARRIE BAILEY photo editor; Alaina Jacques, Rotunda Studios staff; Nick Lewis, sports staff; JESSICA CUBILLA staff staff and Bella Corbo, copy staff. KC MCALLISTER Each of these seniors embody what The Rotunda sets out to do every single ISABELLA CORBO staff day: to seek truth as the voice of Longwood's campus. I think I speak for the staff GISELLE VELASQUEZ CHELSEA MOORE staff entire staff when I say they will be missed, but we are so excited to see what's staff JESSICA PAQUETTE in store for them next. EVENTS staff To the rest of Longwood's seniors: congratulations. You are about to embark AMANDA KING on a wonderful journey in in your field and find success in what makes you coordinator BUSINESS happy. You are about to take your last set of final exams as undergraduates of copy staff IRIS HAMMOND Longwood, and you should be proud of yourselves. assistant business manager RENEE COTTON Your hard work has not gone unnoticed - believe me when I say that. staff Longwood students, faculty and staff play a prominent role in The Rotunda's SOCIAL MEDIA success; without all of you, The Rotunda would not be what it is. We will MIRANDA FARLEY continue to strive for the best and we aim to take you all with us on that editor journey. TAYLOR JENNINGS assistant editor SFC REPORT: Senior Class Council requests funds FOLLOW US ON by Rachael Poole | Editor-in-Chief | @rapoole17 SOCIAL MEDIA Senior Class Council $3,000 INSTAGRAM @rotundaphotos - The funds would be used for Senior Brunch on May 15 that was FACEBOOK @longwood.rotunda originally supposed to be funded through Aramark Catering Services. TWITTER @longwoodrotunda - SFC approved the allocation. APRIL 29, 2019 03 > A&E

THE REELMovie reviews by Jacob DiLandro LIFE | A&E Editor | @spongejay1 art of the journey is the end: this Each of the actors are all bringing their accidents but instead, it’s a commitment to a line quoted by virtually every piece A-game, and show the most gumption and singular vision of a cinematic style that was P of “Endgame” marketing material is dramatic fervor in their smallest scenes. Chris started ten years prior. undoubtedly true. Whether it went on for Evans and Robert Downey Jr., especially, Funny enough, the best way to describe ten years or a hundred years, the Marvel deliver top of their career work, showing “Endgame” is with the man and movie Cinematic Universe’s (MCU) crescendoing exactly why these films have stood above their that started it all. Like Tony Stark himself, storyline would eventually come to its counterparts. “Endgame” can be a bit bombastic, overblown conclusion: “Endgame.” It all works so well because of the people; and self-congratulatory. But it also works hard While the MCU will go on with smaller not the action or spectacle. Before their to earn that bombastic-ness. Several shots storylines beyond this, virtually everything subsequent films, Robert Downey Jr., Mark seem worthy of being hung on walls, almost about “Endgame” is laser guided to deliver Ruffalo, Chris Evans, Chris Hemsworth and as if the film momentarily splits into Greek- the most satisfying conclusion to the story- Jeremy Reiner were all relative nobodies. The style murals of action and superhuman feats. lines that have entangled these films for the same goes for the likes of Chris Pratt, Dave Sometimes it’s down on itself and other last ten years. It does so with broad gusto Bautista, Clark Gregg and Sebastian Stan. times it feels heavy-handed. But at the end of and unexpected twists that may find a few These are now people intrinsically tied the day, it’s exactly what it should have been. scratching their heads. to these characters they’ve dedicated years A celebration and a glorious conclusion, warts This is not to say they’re confusing; despite to performing, with the kind of lifetime and all. It does feel like a massive undertaking, its massive three-hour run-time, “Endgame” association they’ve achieved being on the level like so many action figures being smashed actually feels quite brisk and avoids most of of something like “Star Wars” or “Star Trek.” together inside of the mind of an uber-fan. It’s the pacing issues featured in other superhero “Endgame” ends up delivering not just with a massive victory lap for the MCU, pulled off blockbusters. Rather, “Endgame” spends a its action and finite nature, but because it in as graceful and creative way as a victory lap lot of its time highlighting the impacts these zeroes in on allowing these character moments possibly could be. events, large and small, have had on the to shine through - it consists of people with But … who cares? This is a film meant for universe and characters that inhabit it. extraordinary abilities allowing themselves to those, across so many ages, lives, personalities, It is, in the truest sense of the word, a fight for their own interests some of the time. who have grown with these characters at celebration of what Jon Favreau and Kevin This isn’t a film about people saving the world various times in their lives. It’s a celebration Feige started ten years ago and what it has because it’s their job or because they have to. of the hope that can be inspired by characters evolved into: a group of remarkable people By playing into that ideal, it means the and adventures so outlandish they can’t coming together with broad humor and broad punches hit harder and matter more. It isn’t possibly be true. For so many, they are as real swings to try and make the world a better about saving billions of people; it’s about as they could possibly be. place. saving the few. That’s what matters and that’s To write anymore would be to do a disservice However, given the ending of “Infinity what projects the film into the realm of being to the work that has been done. It’s satisfying War,” directors Anthony and Joe Russo take a truly emotionally satisfying climax. and emotionally powerful, that’s all that an opportunity to play with expectations. To pick apart “Endgame” any further would needs to be said. So go embrace the finale. Not just in the sense of actual plot, but in be to miss the point of its existence: this isn’t Part of the journey is, indeed, the end. But it the character’s motivations and their smaller a normal film, this is a culmination of years can also be a celebration. What a Marvel-ous moments. of work. This is a three-hour third-act for the celebration it is. What this has allowed them to do is create MCU. It’s a miracle that it works without what is almost the weirdest MCU film yet, suffering from massive tonal problems and and they do so with creativity. There are pacing issues. likely plenty of plot holes under the surface, But it also exemplifies the best and worst but there’s at least an internal logic that that the MCU has to offer. Sometimes the 5/5 everything is unflinchingly running on that humor seems out of character with the scenes makes it possible to ignore most of it and see going on, sometimes the action can be jarring what these moments are: fan service disguised or quickly paced, sometimes the visuals are as plot progression. a bit shoddy. It feels less like film-making

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MARVEL STUDIOS AND WALT DISNEY MOTION PICTURE STUDIOS. 04 > OPINIONS TheRotundaOnline.com

America's donations to Notre Dame receive rightful backlash by Davina Applewhite | Opinions Staff | @longwoodrotunda COURTESY OF NBC NEWS

Editor's note: The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.

fter becoming engulfed in flames on The United States has also vowed to step American people feel betrayed. April 15, the Notre Dame Cathedral in and help rebuild the cathedral - President While it’s necessary for nations to come A in Paris, France gained an enormous Donald Trump is looking to donate $1 billion together and show solidarity for the loss amount of media attention. to the cause. of a building that was not only a symbol of The fire covered the city’s skies in masses of People took to social media, expressing their religion but also a home for the arts, it is also billowing, black smoke clouds, and destroyed disapproval of such a large donation. imperative the United States takes the time the 850-year-old historic structure with Though lending a helping hand to France to address the concerns going on within their unsalvageable damage to the church’s roof in their time of need seems to be a noble act, nation that need just as much attention. and spire, according to BBC News. many Americans feel as though this large sum USA Today stated that a general position Many of the iconic beloved art pieces and of money could be used for more important, among critics of these donations is these religious artifacts were untouched by the fire’s domestic matters within the United States’ large amounts of money going towards the damage. However, there is still a lot to be borders. rebuilding of Notre Dame proves “social done in regards to the cathedral’s reparations. Many people were quick to point out it being problems could be quickly addressed if the five years since Flint, Michigan has had clean wealthy were motivated to do so.” water. The United States has decided to use One cannot deny the importance of the the money on this international affair instead Notre Dame Cathedral and how significant of applying those funds to help the population it was to those from all around the world. of Flint. However, Americans are not asking for Notre Other internal crises such as finding a control Dame to remain in ruins nor asking America for global warming or repairing the damages to cease to contribute donations. of arson attacks on black churches need All the American people want is for their American funding and support just as much voices to be heard and for their hardships to as the Notre Dame Cathedral renovations. be taken just as seriously. What is important to remember is that all In a public statement following the fire, of these crises-- President of France Emmanuel Macron said, both national and “Notre Dame is our history, it's our literature, international-- it's our imagery. It's the place where we live our deserve attention greatest moments, from wars to pandemics to and the proper liberations...I'm telling you all tonight--we funding. However, will rebuild this cathedral together.” where the Macron also called out to other nations, American people asking for unity and financial aid in order to get upset is that help rebuild such a monumental building. funding should Since then, different nations have come first be given to together and donated or vowed to donate to those who need France following the destruction of the Notre help inside of the Dame Cathedral. country and then

Globally, more than $700 million was to those outside of COURTESY OF VOA NEWS donated the Tuesday after the fire took place, the country. according to the New York Times. Rightfully, the On April 15, the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, France caught on fire, destroying the church's roof and spire. APRIL 29, 2019 05 > OPINIONS Biden's unwanted affection may ruin chances of presidency

by Taiya Jarrett | Opinions Staff | @ohsoootay The rapper and advocate used his voice to fight against racial oppression andCOURTESY injustice OF FEDERAL FLAGS Editor's note: The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author. ormer United States Vice President As of most recently, democratic political much like these ongoing occurrences of women Joe Biden announced his campaign for candidate Lucy Flores publicly shared her being subjected to the mistreatment made by F the 2020 presidential race on April 25, story as she penned an article for the New a trusted male-counterpart. Furthermore, despite recent concern of his credibility being York Times where she thoroughly describes let’s not pretend asserted male power and up for debate. her uncomfortable encounter with Biden back dominance doesn’t exist in this patriarchal Having worked in the White House, Biden in 2014. Such encounters were engulfed in society today and hasn’t made its way onto the is undoubtedly more than qualified for the inappropriate touching and actions—hand seat of the White House—because it indeed position as president. It's no surprise Biden has placement on her neck and shoulders, smelling has. held many governmental positions that have her hair and kissing her forehead. Reigning as the current United States allowed him to broaden his background and In efforts to reclaim his image, but by the same President, Trump’s 2016 Presidential his touch. However, that may be his downfall. token minimize these womens’ allegations, campaign primarily ran off the basis of racist, News of his run has been in speculation for Biden counteracted these allegations. narcissistic, misogynistic and sexist remarks, a few weeks now, but so has his personal life According to CNN he stated, “In my many which has yet to discontinue. However, merging into his work life. years on the campaign trail and in public life, during his campaign, a 2005 tape resurfaced Coming to the surface just after weeks before I have offered countless handshakes, hugs, of number 45 proudly saying the vulgar-esque his announcement of his candidacy, Biden has expressions of affection, support and comfort. comment "grab them by the pussy" in a failed been at the forefront of a #MeToo scandal as And not once - never - did I believe I acted attempt to pursue a woman. the alleged perpetrator of unwanted physical inappropriately. If it is suggested I did so, I Therefore, years later his misogynistic harassment by more than a few women. will listen respectfully. But it was never my behavior, attitude and overall disregard of Ranging from a White House intern Vail intention." respect towards and for women has won him Kohnert-Yount, congressional aide Amy However, over the course of many years, a seat in the house, so perhaps Biden will fit Lappos, journalist D.J. Hill to a former women have gone from silent to resilient right in. university student Caitlyn Caruso, ex-Capitol and have become innately dismissed. Biden’s As his credibility has come into question, Hill staffer Ally Coll and a survivor of sexual response completely undermines these seven there’s a substantial amount of concern of assault Sofie Karasek. These women have women’s experiences. whether he’s even fit to run the nation, so will come forward to express their uncomfortable In doing so, his efforts to rebuild and reclaim Biden be your 46? interactions with the well-known politician. his image may have truly gone unnoticed,

ADVERTISEMENT If you're looking for a PRISTINE CLEAN CARPETED SAFE storage unit in which to store your prized belongings... You have come to the right place!

Student Specials: $10 for the first month with the payment of the second on all size of units

$170 for three months on all 5'x10' units, normally $240 when paid up front

Located in the former Walmart and next to Tractor Supply our newly remodeled bulding features many sizes of units to fit your needs

434-603-6428 1505 South Main Street Farmville, VA 23901 [email protected] Please visit our website: www.aa-self-storage.com 06 > SPORTS TheRotundaOnline.com Student fees remain driving force behind athletics departmental revenue Longwood programs are top sources of income and biggest spenders as department's "revenue-generating" sport by Patrick Sanderson | Assistant Sports Editor | @psanderson20

or the 2018 fiscal year, the total net decrease from the 2017-18 fiscal year, they it could be used for a one-time strategic income for Longwood athletics was remained the top departmental recipient. initiative, or it could be used for tuition, like F reported as a surplus of $238,980, However, all fees come with spending scholarships,” Meadows said. “It’s hard to an increase from the previous year. The thresholds, limiting programs on what they delineate exactly where it's going, oftentimes net income derives from the excess of total can or can’t use the money for. it is a supplementary source to our overall operating revenues over total operating “Largely, we, as a state agency, are limited budget.” expenses and of the revenue, almost two- with what we can use our funds for, and we The department’s total operating expenses thirds came from student fees, according to have lots of guidelines,” Waller said. “As a are listed as $11,924,508, with roughly one- the athletic department's most recent financial whole, state funds are very restrictive anyway, third generated from athletic student aid. statement. so all of these fees have restrictions.” The expenses include summer school, tuition The financial statement has to be filled discounts and aid for inactive or ineligible out and submitted to the NCAA, and student-athletes. reported that the total operating Of the 14 teams at Longwood, revenue totaled $12,163,488. men’s and women’s basketball Student fees, such as auxiliary covered 40 percent of all costs, made up $7,978,606 salaries, benefits and bonuses - a small increase from paid by the university. Men’s the 2017 fiscal year, that head basketball coach Griff generated $7,702,925. Aldrich’s initial base salary In recent years, the is $150,000 and women’s amount of student fees basketball head coach has remained a significant Rebecca Tillett’s initial contributor to funding the base salary is $105,000, athletics department and with each having a $5,000 their programs. annual increase along A percentage of student fees with performance-based from the university is allocated GRAPHIC BY ANGELI LEONG bonuses. According to towards athletics every year, according Meadows, in being a to Vice President for Administration and Every year, athletics goes through a budget Division I program, this is a common practice Finance Louise Waller. planning and request process, communicating among the majority of institutions with their “Right now we’re at about 64 to 65 percent with different university officials to determine most popular athletics programs. of student fees going towards athletics,” how much the department needs. The funds “You would classify basketball as a revenue- Waller said. “We’re very much in line, and they request will come directly from the generating sport, and (with) revenue- even less than some of our competitors.” university auxiliary budget and is determined generating sports across the country, you will In comparison, 84 percent of student fees are by the Board of Visitors. Meadows, formerly find that the salaries are marketably higher allocated for athletics at serving as chief financial officer, said once the than a non-revenue generating sport,” she and 77 percent is allocated at James Madison budget is approved, athletics is able to move said. University. Old Dominion University sits forward in budget planning. In total, the six men’s programs total closely with Longwood in this regard, putting “We will then estimate the revenue that we operating expenses reached $3,605,098, forth 62 percent towards athletics, according can generate within athletics, and then we with almost 50 percent attributed to men’s to Waller. will determine our budgets for each of our basketball. The eight women’s programs The percentage of student fees allocated programs from there,” she said. totaled $4,222,433, with nearly 30 percent to athletics relies on a few factors, causing As of Jan. 31, 2019, the athletics department coming from women’s basketball. the number to change every year. According was given a budget of $8,480,492 by the Aside from student fees, the department to Interim Athletics Director Michelle Board of Visitors, according to a Longwood and certain programs receive funds through Meadows, factors include student enrollment, University financial overview. multiple avenues, including contributions and tuition and fees, comprehensive fee The majority of student fees and direct guarantees. Student fees remain the bulk of all breakdowns and student revenue. institutional support make up a combined 88 departmental revenue, reaching the highest Part of tuition includes a comprehensive fee, percent of all the departmental revenue and amount in school history in previous years, which is broken down to a percentage that's are classified under non-program specific played in part by institutional growth. The distributed toward different departments, funds. These funds are generated revenue result is departments on campus continuing such as athletics, parking and transportation, not tied to a specific sport. According to to grow, such as athletics. facilities and more. Each department or Meadows, the money is aggregated into this “We place a lot of emphasis too on trying service is given a certain amount of these fees category and distributed over their budget to to find ways to generate external sources per credit hour, but the amount fluctuates, fund all programs, support units and student- of revenue to help to support the athletics according to Longwood's website. athletes. programs so that we can keep tuition and For the 2018-19 fiscal year, $68.18 in Direct institutional support revenue is fees affordable and continue to invest in comprehensive fees was distributed to money from the university auxiliary budget our student-athletes,” Meadows said. “We athletics per credit hour, the most among and can be used for multiple purposes. understand our responsibility in that and we all categories. Though athletics saw a slight “It could be used for operational expenses, are continuing to work towards that.” APRIL 29, 2019 07 > SPORTS

BRANDON CHEUNG | THE ROTUNDA ce

Lancers try to right ship despite season full of adversity Baseball sits last in with 10 to go. by Kurt Martin | Sports Editor | @IamKurt14

The Lancers get some last words of wisdom from head coach Ryan Mau before their April 26 contest versus the USC Upstate Spartans. n a season where Longwood baseball has emotionally draining and difficult.” On Saturday, the team again fell to the been unable to find consistent footing, The Lancers were able to find the win Spartans by a score of 13-9 as Upstate struck Itheir fate will come down to the final 10 column this past Tuesday as they avenged a eight times in the seventh inning to take full games to clinch a berth into the Big South loss from earlier in the season and took down control of the contest and series. Tournament. the Spartans from Norfolk State 5-3. Sunday found the team on the wrong end of Currently sitting at 10-33 and 4-17 in Junior shortstop Antwaun Tucker has faced a pitchers duel, as the Lancers had the tying conference play, the team is last in the adversity of his own this season as he suffered run on base in the ninth, but eventually fell Big South Conference, two games behind an injury in the team’s March 1 contest 4-2. Charleston Southern. in Hawaii. Despite missing time and only The top nine seeds clinch a berth into the playing in 29 games to date, Tucker currently conference tournament. is second on the team with a .302 batting For head coach Ryan Mau, this year’s journey average. has been full of adversity which has led to it “(I'm) not trying to do too much, just come being a back and difficult help the team season. anyway that "I told our I can,” said guys, life Tucker. is full of He said the adversity team has and there’s increased focus only two and drive going options and throughout one option the rest of the is obviously season. just to pack “Sometimes it in and we lack the cower in the energy and it corner and shows on the that’s not Junior Jacob Mitchell holds a Spartan runner at first base. The team field, but we an option would eventually drop the game 16-2. will come with for us," said Mau. "Our only option is to fight one hundred percent every game, ready to back and get ourselves out of that corner.” grind,” said Tucker. “We don’t bounce back A corner the Lancers now find themselves well I would say. So when something bad in after beginning the conference slate at 2-1. happens on the field we are kind of deflated Freshman Cullan Wadsworth shined in the Lancers The team would then go on to lose 18 of their after that and we just need to pick it up and April 26 matchup with USC Upstate. The Pennsylvania next 21 games and fall to their current mark. turn it on more.” native would go 3-for-4, including his first career The team suffered three losses in walk- The Lancers currently have nine conference home run. off fashion during their recent nine-game games remaining on the schedule including In need of a quick turnaround in the win road trip that included crucial in-conference this weekend's aforementioned matchup with column, the Lancers will try to rebound matchups with and the USC Upstate Spartans. moving forward to regain lost ground for the Radford University. The team yielded 13 walks in game one of final spot in the Big South tournament. “It has been a long, rough stretch for us and the series en route to a 16-2 loss. Freshman “It’s been a lot, but the season is not over we had a couple of competitive games that Cullan Wadsworth led the team with a 3-for- and we are still fighting as a team which I am we just couldn’t finish,” said Mau. “Having 4 effort and added his first home run of the proud of and we will see what we can get done three walk-offs in the last two plus weeks was season. here in the next couple of weeks," said Mau. 08 > SPORTS TheRotundaOnline.com

CARRIE BAILEY | THE ROTUNDA

Longwood softball readies for Big South tournament Victory in road series clinches top seed for Kathy Riley’s team by Nick Lewis | Sports Staff | @NickLewis_315

Lancers celebrate a walk off double by Jenna Dunn to mercy rule Hampton in the 6th and win the series. urrently sitting at 31-16 and 17-4 in in our conference games,” Backstrom said. bunts, squeeze plays and steals to help in those the Big South Conference, Longwood Senior catcher Kaylynn "Bug" Batten said close games from the offensive end. Csoftball will finish their season with every team steps up their game and gives it Riley hopes their best games are still ahead nine straight road games on the docket with their best shot in the conference tournament. even though they hit well in the final home two three-game sets at “I think most importantly is for us to stay series against Hampton. The Lancers hit better and Virginia Tech. The team will then end competitive and stay in the game," Batten when there are runners on base as opposed to the season at former Big South rival Liberty said. "We’ve had some games where we’ve when the bases are empty, according to Riley. University on May 4. come back a lot in the fifth, sixth, and seventh “You play things a little closer to the vest, Head coach Kathy Riley my philosophy said she will use the out-of- generally speaking conference games to play with is to always hit her lineup and mix it up. Riley away until we get plans on allowing players like late in the game freshman infielder Madison and I think you Blair and sophomore infielder might give up an Jenna Dunn to get some more out or two early to at-bats. make sure you get “I’m not quite concerned an extra run in,” about winning than I am in Riley said. other situations because I Riley also said want to use these games as a she likes to take mini conference tournament,” everything one day Riley said. at a time and hasn’t Sophomore pitcher Sydney (Left) Chelsea Whitcomb slids into second base stealing two bases Wednesday afternoon. (Top RIght) thought about Backstrom said the team is Leah Powell earns a bunt single beating the throw from Hampton pitcher Allyson Babinsack. (Bottom the Virginia Tech playing better in the conference Right) Jordan Clark smiles on third base after collecting three hits and two RBIs on Wednesday. doubleheader. portion of their schedule “As soon as we’re whereas last year they played better all- inning and it’s not ever that we feel any done with Presbyterian then we’ll really around. Backstrom added she learned to be pressure, we always have girls come through change our focus and start focusing on the confident in conference games; however, the which is very important.” conference tournament,” Riley said. out-of-conference schedule affected how she According to Riley, in order to take the next Longwood currently sits first in the pitches now. step for tournament play the team has to play conference over second place USC Upstate, “If I do well in tougher games then it makes better defense and get good outings from the whom the Lancers swept back in March. me more confident and trust everything more pitching staff. She added the team can use APRIL 29, 2019 09 > EDITORIALS SENIOR COLUMN: Christine Rindfleisch, former editor-in-chief by Christine Rindfleisch | Former Editor-in-Chief | @its_rINDfleisch nce upon a time, a young freshman there is no growth. Always remember you took the long ride from the sixth are the voice of the campus and no other Ofloor of Frazer Hall to attend the organization can say that. involvement fair on Brock Commons with To the Communication Studies program, a small ounce of hope of finding a family I wouldn’t be half the person I am today for the next four years. without you. If you haven’t met the Comm Fast forward four years, hours of professors yet, boy oh boy, are you missing interviews, a handful of stories and many out on some of the coolest people I have sleepless nights later and here I am. And and ever will meet. yes, I did find a family in The Rotunda. The professors are what make Longwood Little did I know I would be writing this all that it is so I challenge Longwood to as the former Editor-in-Chief and would invest in the educators that prepare us be about to leave behind my home of the for the road ahead and help us enjoy the last four years when I wrote my first article ride. We have enough buildings and on the Atlantic Coast Pipeline in the fall construction is not why students choose of 2015. Longwood, it's the professors that Looking back on my time with The genuinely care about our well-being. Rotunda is bittersweet. This organization Last but certainly not least: to Longwood, challenged me like I had never been I promise to try my absolute best to live challenged before and for that I am so up to the citizen leader you want me to grateful. be. As a first generation college graduate, To my Rotunda’ers that I leave behind, Longwood has meant more, to not only you have a long trek in front of you and if me, but my entire family. You are not it’s easy, then you aren’t doing it right. But, perfect but nothing and no one is but if I assure you, hard work pays off. I have you listen to the students you will find out loved watching each and every one of you what Longwood needs in the future so I grow into your role and I can’t wait to see encourage you to listen. where you take your new positions. I am often asked where, or even what, Lastly, I urge you to step out of your Longwood University is and I always comfort zones because without doing that, reply that it’s the best place on Earth.

Erin Eaton, former managing editor by Erin Eaton | Former Managing Editor | @eleaton6 hen I first came to Longwood, your talents. I never anticipated being As I progressed in my digital media W committed to anything other concentration, I discovered my love for than my education. However, being in media overall and The Rotunda gave me the communication studies program, the opportunity to truly immerse myself we were more than encouraged to get in more than just design when I became involved on campus. At first, I thought I managing editor. This role allowed me to wanted to be a writer so where else to go learn so much more not only about the but The Rotunda? It was the perfect fit, logistics of a news organization but as but not for the reasons I initially thought. well as the hard-working people behind I started by writing a basic 500-word it. I developed incredible relationships features article about Dr. Jordan’s with some of the most passionate people Bonfire but quickly realized I was more at Longwood. They are my biggest captivated by the newspaper itself. It supporters on my darkest days and my was like any old newspaper, really, and inspiration to constantly improve my like most newspapers it looked a little work. outdated so instead I decided to join the To them I’d like to say: never stop layout staff to help improve our design. pushing yourself. This organization is That little bit of determination grew into meant to be a learning experience and a passion I never expected. a place to grow. Challenge yourself and It pushed me to take our newspaper then do some more because that’s how layout to the next level with a more you grow. Tell the stories that scare modern magazine design. That’s one of my you the most because they are the most biggest and proudest accomplishments in important. Longwood needs all of you to my time here at Longwood and it wasn’t be the voice of the students. easy. The amount of trial and error we I never would have thought that going to went through was tedious and frustrating one Monday meeting my freshman year at times but more rewarding each week would give me a whole family. I wouldn’t as I learned how to improve. That’s my be who I am today without The Rotunda. biggest take away from this organization: Thank you all for an unforgettable four you’re never done improving yourself and years. 10 > EDITORIALS TheRotundaOnline.com Nicole Del Rosario,former Rotunda Studios excutive producer

by Nicole Del Rosario | Former Rotunda Studios Executive Producer | @nicdelro f all the scripts and videos I have I will admit these past few months have not edited, I think this is going to be the been the best for our relationship. Honestly, O most taxing assignment I have ever this one is definitely on me because senior done for The Rotunda. To have something year took a toll on me and I know I neglected you have dedicated an inordinate amount you at the very tail end of our time together. of time towards and been a part of for over Sorry, pal, you didn’t deserve that. two years taken away from you is not always While I am sad to go our separate ways, the easiest task. Maybe my way of coping I know you will be in good hands with the with this is treating this like a breakup… So new leadership for the next year. I am 100 Rotunda, I am breaking up with you. percent positive TJ will give you the love Allow me start out by saying: it isn’t you, and support you deserve. it’s me. Sometimes people grow and need to Who knows? Maybe I will see you some find out who they are as individuals. Don’t time in the future. When that time comes, get me wrong—you have helped me in I know you would be a better version of many ways and I am eternally grateful for yourself, as will I. you and Rotunda Studios. Without you, I It has been an absolute joy to be with you would not have been able to be an anchor and thank you so much for one of the best a news show with my best friend, Alaina, chapters of my life. wear construction gear to cover a tour of the almost-ready Upchurch or have been able to create On The Record. Let the record show this breakup was mutual and we agreed to end on good terms.

Alaina Jacques, Rotunda Studios staff

by Alaina Jacques | Rotunda Studios staff | @alainajacques elcome back to News Break, I’m the country and who brought that inspiration Alaina Jacques” - those are the to Longwood. The relationships I have “Wwords that started my journey created with others on the campus I owe with The Rotunda, a journey I will be forever to The Rotunda as well. Covering a story, I grateful for. However, if you so graciously am recognized for my work and the positive stumble across the first News Break in the feedback I’ve received brings me so much joy, re-vamping of Rotunda Studios, please, I am just knowing I am doing my part. begging you, do not share it with your friends. Writing this right now brings so many The young, inexperienced, deer in headlights emotions to the surface. These last two years to the right, is me. Now yes I am probably with The Rotunda have been some I’ll never being a little hard on myself, but luckily forget. It is so strange and heartbreaking to through working persistently each semester, leave the place I have called home for four I have grown and improved considerably and years, walking into a future that is unknown I have The Rotunda to thank for that. for me. There will be no late nights in the For the last two years I have worked so French edit suites anymore, no more lugging diligently to tell the stories of Longwood camera equipment across campus, and no University in a timely, professional and more Monday night meetings. Having said creative manner. I have sat at the news desk that, I am really excited to grow and to see with my best friend since day one, Nicole Del where life takes me in this next chapter in Rosario, reporting on news each week. The my life. laughs, the tears, and the late nights editing So thank to The Rotunda for all of the have been so worth it, since it meant I got to opportunities, friends, and experiences you be doing what I love with the people I love. have given me, I will never forget you and I’ll I have had incredible opportunities, getting be forever grateful. the chance to report on astonishing stories I’m Alaina Jacques and that was On The here. I have interviewed influential students Record. on campus who are creating a change and making a difference. I have met incredible people who are making an impact all over APRIL 29, 2019 11 > EDITORIALS Eva Wittkoski, former Isabella Corbo, copy staff

by Isabella Corbo | Copy Staff | @ivcorbo assistant photo editor amazes me. In this organization by Eva Wittkoski, Former Assistant Photo Editor | @longwoodrotunda I have been able to push myself to become a better editor and a it simply because it had been better writer in my classes. recommended to me by a few people The Rotunda has helped me to within my major and it sounded become more open minded and interesting. It has become so much creative. This organization has more than that though. given me tools that I can use both It has become a family to me that in and outside of the classroom. pushes me to become better and Because of this, I think I will be grow in any way that I can. They able to succeed in anything I do support me through bad days and I after graduation. try to do the same for them. I can As an English major, I have confide in them about anything. many options in the career field. The family is constantly growing so My hope is that I will become y time at Longwood has I’m not as close with some as others. either an editor for a publication been something that I Everyone is always kind though, firm or a paralegal. I know that never expected. I’ve met creating a warm and inviting with either job I will be able to M atmosphere that I always want to people from all different walks of apply these new tools in my work. life that I never even imagined I be in. Through the organization, hroughout my time I want to thank everyone on would meet. I’ve also fostered my passion for at Longwood, I have staff at The Rotunda that has given I’ve had many different experiences journalism while becoming more T been a part of several me this amazing opportunity. that have helped me become who I informed of what’s happening on different organizations. By far, Without this organization I do The Rotunda am today, both good and bad. That’s campus. has been one of my not think I would feel the same life. I am thankful for every person Overall, I couldn’t imagine being favorite. Though I have only been way about my future as I do now. that has been a part of my life, no a part of any other organization and in the organization for a short I look forward to my remaining matter how small, because that has I wouldn’t want to change anything time, saying goodbye is hard. time in this organization and about my experience at Longwood My fellow staff members have I wish nothing but the best for taught me something that I will The Rotunda. hold onto for the rest of my life. with taught me so much, especially the my fellow Rotunda'ers and their What I am most thankful for copy staff. I have learned so much future endeavors! though is The Rotunda. I joined in my short time on staff that it Thank you for everything. Nick Lewis, sports staff

by Nick Lewis | Sports Staff | @NickLewis_315 professors tell you, you had a good article, video to join and help him with sports. Without being or project is something that everyone should be asked I wouldn’t have met all the great people in proud of. that organization which I consider family. I’ve School isn’t just about getting good grades had so much fun with them over the past two and doing the bare minimum, it should be years and that’s something I’ll never forget. about trying to put your best work possible into This past month I’ve joinedThe Rotunda, an the world where you aren’t yet respected as a organization that I regret not joining earlier professional. What I’ve learned however, it that despite my friends asking me to join. This is as long as you’re confident in what you’re doing another organization filled with amazing people they won’t be able to tell you’re a student. and although half of them I already know, I I owe everything I learned to the COMMunity. unfortunately haven’t been able to know the Without the help of Dr. Stouffer, Professor other half. I do know that they all do amazing Halliday, Clint Wright and my Comm lab work and I am super appreciative of all the hard classes I don’t know how I would be what work everyone does to make sure my articles ne last time I will wake up and go I am today. I also owe a lot to the athletics look good from layout, to the photo staff, to the to class. One last time I’ll walk into department for allowing me to work on Big editors and former editors who’ve helped me OCSTAC and French. One last time I’ll South Network and ESPN Plus. Without out. walk across campus taking in all the students them I wouldn’t have rediscovered my passion I’m not ready to leave but everyone has their wanting the semester to be over. One last time for sports broadcasting and for allowing me time and the longer the stay, the more painful I’ll look around and see my friends before we all to create amazing relationships with coaches goodbye. If you are still reading up to this become real adults and start living adult lives. within the department. I owe my skills on-air point, I challenge you to look around you There are a lot of things that we do for one to Darius Thigpen and TJ Wengert, because and truly appreciate everything you have. I’m last time that we don’t even realize, and we take without them I know I definitely wouldn’t be as talking about friends, professors, roommates them for granted. Longwood has been good to good as I am, and I’ve truly learned a lot from and experiences you’ve had. The reason behind me these last three years, teaching me things the two of them which is something I couldn’t this is because all of these things influence who and helping me meet some of my favorite people be without. you are and who you will become. I know I’m in the world. Longwood has also allowed me I was only in two organizations my first year, appreciative of all my friends, professors and to gain the recognition of my work among my one was club swim and the second was the experiences I’ve had to make me who I am peers which is one of the greatest feeling in the Big South Network. My second year I added today, ready or not to graduate. world. Having your friends, classmates and WMLU and that was only because TJ asked me Thanks Longwood. 2 TOPPINGS $6.99 2 MEDIUM EACH

GOURMET $12.99 MEDIUM PIZZA

GOURMET $14.99 LARGE PIZZA

Carry-Out, Delivery, & Dine In 237 Sunchase Blvd 434.391.1000 Order online at pizzaworld.com or download our app Pizza and much more!