T HE DECREE since 1960 “of, by, and for the Wesleyan community.” December 9, 2016 NORTH CAROLINA WESLEYAN COLLEGE, ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA 27804 Students Want Trump to Focus on National Unity, Health Care Like the rest of the country, the Wes- Many students deplored the protests President-elect Trump the best and hope he a political background and real experience, for the president to unite the country. leyan student body, in reflecting on the by Clinton supporters and others who op- recognizes the true problems in the country.” he’s going to turn this country into turmoil.” Within this group, many cited racism as election of Donald J. Trump as America’s posed Trump. Saying that she was “very In the wake of the election, Mary Reynolds Adrian Moore said he’s concerned an issue the president should address. 45th President, expressed a range of happy that my party’s candidate won,” said Americans must come together and about Trump’s past statements on women, Asked to identify an issue for Trump emotions: delight, fear, validation, anger. and that she has “new hope for the future support each other. “I was disappointed in our African-Americans, Muslims and other to tackle, Zach Byers was quick and to Christopher Imoukhuede was one of nu- of America,” Trump backer Alyssa Clark country and afraid for my fellow citizens,” minorities. When he learned of Trump’s the point: “Bring the country together.” merous students who also expressed shock said she was “angered by all the rioting she said. “But I’m pushing that aside.” victory, he was “a bit devastated,” he said. Harbour was just as succinct: at Trump’s election. “I was surprised to going on because Hillary lost.” Jessie Harbour was more optimistic. Though not a Clinton supporter, Ryan “Unite the country.” wake up in the morning to learn that Donald Brittany Manning expressed a similar “I’m hopeful that everything will work Halliday expressed anger at Trump’s El Salvador native Ivan Herrera hopes Trump had won the election,” he said. view. “I understand why people are upset out for the best,” she said. election. He objects to the president-elect’s to see greater unity as well. “The country is Other students had positive feelings over the results,” she said. “But I don’t After the initial shock, Alexus Jenkins is views on immigration and the wall he completely divided,” he said. “There’s too about Trump’s victory. think violence, protesting and spreading willing to give Trump a chance: “When I wants to erect on the Mexico border. “I much hate between the parties. Trump should “I’m glad Trump won,” Courtney Moss said. hateful messages is acceptable.” learned the results I felt fear. But I’m open think his views are horrible,” Halliday said. figure out how that can be fixed. He should Nikolas Dunlap felt the same way. “I believe Kate Butler was “appalled” by the to seeing what the president-elect will do.” “He’ just a rich brat. I think we’re screwed.” try to unify the country as soon as possible.” Trump will be a good president,” he said. way some Americans have responded to Rafael Bella, a native of Brazil, wasn’t Zach Gibson believes America wasn’t Fixing the health care system was right Gregory Moore agreed, calling it a Trump’s election. “No matter the results, prepared for the outcome either, but ready to elect a woman. “I knew Trump behind unifying the country, with 16 students “good choice. It will help our job rate.” it’s important to respect the nominee believes that Trump may upend America’s was going to win,” he said. “I felt no citing it as the most important issue. Johnnie Benton sees Trump as a nec- who won the election,” she said. expectations, once in office. “I couldn’t way a woman would win the election. “Obamacare has bankrupted a lot of essary change agent. “America’s in need In short order, some Trump oppo- picture Trump as a president,” he said. “But That’s not my personal feeling, but there insurance companies and forced people of change and I think Donald Trump can nents have resigned themselves to the I feel confident he’ll do a good job. Who was no way others would vote for her.” to pay higher premiums for insurance help,” he said. “Being a businessman, he outcome. “The election results aren’t knows, maybe we underestimated him.” Even after the election, many students with limited coverage,” said Kate Butler. knows what it takes to be successful.” what I wanted, but that’s life and I have Some Clinton supporters, and Trump continued to wish the choice had been Foreign policy came in third with 9 responses, Sully Reece wasn’t satisfied with either to deal with it,” said Ricardo Bullock. opponents, struggled to reconcile between two different candidates. “It was as if while fighting terrorism was next with 7. Clinton or Trump. “I don’t have a prob- Said Tim McDonald, “I was shocked about themselves to a Trump presidency. I was dealt a bad hand,” said Digiovanni Lugo. Here is a breakdown of the remaining lem with the election results,” he said. “I the results and at first I was discouraged, “I feel that America didn’t make the As part of the survey, students were asked survey choices. Students called for: felt like neither candidate deserved to be but I’ve come to realize this is the reality and smartest decision,” Toni Collins said. to identify the most urgent issue for the Trump • Addressing cases of police brutality (5) president, but the best choice won.” there’s nothing I can do to change it. I wish “Trump is a good businessman, but without Administration to tackle after it assumes office • Lowering the national debt (4) in 2017. Like the election outcome, student • Toughening gun laws (4) responses were somewhat surprising. • Strengthening national defense (3) Elena Koutouzos (’10) Named Of the 109 students polled, only • Overhauling Welfare and income two mentioned the high cost of college redistribution programs (2) education while seven indicated that the • Stopping violent protests (2) New Financial Aid Director president should focus on creating jobs • Establishing Congressional term limits (1) Elena Koutouzos, a 2010 Wesleyan and writing skills but your attention to detail. have exposure to multiple industries. Having and improving the economy over all. • Prohibiting flag burning (1) graduate, has been elevated to the key Have you always been a detail person? been an auditor, I’ve been in situations where Four called for cracking down on illegal Students were surveyed during the post of Financial Aid Director. A. As long as I can remember, I’ve always I didn’t feel welcome initially. It’s not a secret immigration, one for attacking climate weeks of November 14th and 21st and The 28-year-old Rocky Mount resident been a detail person. I’m not sure if it’s a good that people aren’t typically excited to see change, and one for outlawing abortion. on November 28. had been serving as a budget analyst in the thing or not, but I tend to auditors. However, By far, the two most common Eighteen respondents gave their college’s Finance Department since Septem- notice the items that many over time I was responses were unifying the country reaction to the election results without ber 2015. In that job, she was responsible others don’t. You can always able to and overhauling the American health identifying a leading issue. Some left for accounts payable, budget tracking, and probably blame genetics earn the trust and care system, Obamacare in particular. the question blank, while others offered coordination of the college’s Title III grant. as much as the fascination respect of clients Noting the fractious nature of the partisan statements such as Trump Jason Edwards, her supervisor as Vice I’ve had with shows like and coworkers. In presidential campaign, 19 students called should focus on “getting impeached.” President of Finance & Administration, “Law and Order” since my various roles, has been impressed with Koutouzos’ I was a child. I’ve always I’ve realized the Maryville Wins Tight Match, performance and expressed confidence been one who tries to importance of being that she’ll be a quick study in her new figure out the twist or genuine and simply Blocks Soccer from NCAAs The men’s soccer team fell to Maryville, the sidelines as his teammates surrendered a post. “Elena has an insatiable desire for solve the case. As the treating others 2-1, in the USA Conference finals, ending first-half lead and then saw the Scots’ Tim knowledge and a unique ability to transform saying goes, “the devil how you wish to be a successful season that saw the Bishops Baker score the decisive goal in the 56th that knowledge into action which produces is in the details.” treated. I think compile a 9-1 record and tie the Scots for first minute of the title match. excellent results,” he said. “She possesses Q. How difficult was it my previous posi- place in the regular season. “It was hard not to be able to help on the wisdom beyond her years.” to earn a CPA? I know that tions have greatly Senior Toby Thorfinnsson said that play- field,” said Thorfinnsson, who noted that he A certified public accountant with a degree many candidates take it enhanced my ers were devastated by the loss. Most years, “did my best to motivate the other players in accounting from NC State’s one-year masters more than once. ability to empathize he said, “it’s the seniors who’re sad, but this and activate the bench to be our 12th man.” program, Koutouzos was a double major in A. The CPA exam was with others. time everyone was very emotional.” Besides Thorfinnsson, the Greensboro business and accounting and a member of extremely challenging for Q. What do First-year midfielder Ryan Halliday was victory cost Wesleyan one of its leading Wesleyan’s Honors Program. One of her honors me. Luckily, I was able you most need to disappointed as well. He felt the Bishops lost scorers, Kobi Boompong (7 goals, 4 assists program peers was Ben Lilley, Assistant Direc- to pass all four sections learn as Director to an inferior team. “We had a good season on the year), who earned a red card, one of tor of Admissions, who said that Koutouzos on my first attempt. I felt of Financial Aid? and played a good game in the end, but luck seven penalties assessed against the Bishops possesses the skills set and critical thinking positive that I had failed What will your wasn’t on our side and we just couldn’t put on the day. The red card meant Boompong, a abilities to flourish in her new job. “And she’s one section. I took two focus be in the Elena Koutouzos Photo courtesy of NC Wesleyan the ball in the back of the net.” freshman center from Gambia, would need to very creative,” he said. “That should be an asset portions of the exam while upcoming months? A win would have vaulted the Bishops (14- sit out the championship game. down the road when it comes to innovation and I was in graduate school. This was during A. I have a ton of information to learn in 6 overall) into the NCAA Division III regional Believing that the Bishops boasted exploring new methods to help us outrun our the fall semester of the program. I was plan- my new role. It really feels like I’m a student tourney. The team last won the regular season superior talent, Taal said Maryville held the competitors in the world of college admissions.” ning on taking the remaining two sections of here once again. I’ve already attended a train- title in 2010 and the tournament championship advantage in one key part of the game. Koutouzos and her husband, Manoli, a the exam during my spring semester, but that ing session held in Raleigh, and I’ve sat with in 2009 under former coach Jason Kilby. “The main difference was "DISCI- technician at a local Toyota dealership, live semester was substantially more technical several of my co-workers who have walked In 2016, both conference losses came at PLINE,” Taal wrote in an email. “I thought in Rocky Mount, where she moved with her so I waited until I had graduated and used me through various tasks. There are several the hands of Maryville (18-2), which beat the we were the better team on both occasions. family from Trenton, New Jersey at age 10. summer to finish my preparation and the webinars I would like to complete and I’m Bishops, 2-1, in overtime at home on October 22. But they were a lot more disciplined than we The Decree interviewed Koutouzos in exam itself. I’m glad I did. Each time I left the familiarizing myself with a 1,300-page That win allowed the Scots to tie the then- were. If we play with a lot more discipline mid-November. Prometric test center, my brain felt like putty. handbook on financial aid. I’m excited about undefeated Bishops for the regular season lead and organization, we’ll be without a doubt Q. Describe your new responsibilities Before I sat for each section of the exam, I learning and enhancing my knowledge. and earn home field advantage in the tourney. one of the best teams in the country.” as Wesleyan’s Director of Financial Aid. would even have nightmares consisting of Q. Do you intend to make changes to Having just finished his sixth season as head See Soccer pg 3 A. My job is to provide leadership and Excel spreadsheets and Becker study material. Wesleyan’s Financial Aid Office, either coach, Frankie Taal said the 2016 group was management for all facets of financial aid to Q. After you earned that credential, did short- or long-term? impressive. “This was by far the most talented ensure we maintain regulatory compliance as a lot of family and friends ask for help A. In any job that I’ve held, I’ve always team and collection of players,” he said. well quality customer service. This includes with their taxes? looked for ways to improve and enhance What set the team apart was its depth. “I overseeing all federal, state and institutional A. Yes, I did and still do have friends and current processes. We’re at a point when mean good depth,” Taal explained. “We had a funds and programs; processing of loans; family ask for help with their taxes. Tax ac- technology is always advancing. I think it’s lot of players coming off the bench who were and maintaining regulatory compliance. counting is a specialized field and has never important to increase both efficiency and as good as the starters.” Q. What's the most important thing been my forte. I’ve always prepared my own accuracy whenever possible. Goalkeeper Alex Magner, a junior, agreed you learned about yourself while you taxes using software such as Turbo Tax. Q. Student indebtedness was a major that the 2016 team was the best in his time were a Wesleyan student? Q. Describe the jobs you held prior to campaign issue in 2016, and financial aid is as a Bishop. “More players were buying into A. I would say that it’s important to your return in 2015. always on the minds of our students and their the system put in place by the coaches,” said learn who you are by trying different A. I was a bookkeeping assistant at Standard families. And, when polled by the Decree, Magner, who recorded a 1.21 goals against things. It seems like I changed majors as Insurance & Realty while I was as student at many Wesleyan students have, over the years, average and five shutouts during the year. often as I changed the color of my hair. But NCWC and while I was a student at NCSU (I listed their interactions with the Financial Aid Taal added that the Bishops were loaded in doing so, I could determine what was worked remotely). I was an assurance associate Office as one of their common grievances, with seniors. “With 10 seniors, we had much and what was not a good fit for me. at Ernst & Young where I audited public and citing delays and mix-ups, etc. What personal better leadership than we’ve had in the past.” Q. How did you become interested in non-profit companies. Then I served as a characteristics, what past experiences have Thorfinnsson echoed his coach’s statement the field of accounting? fund accountant at the Nottingham Company. prepared you to deal with disgruntled customers on leadership. A senior defender and team A. Accounting was one of the last fields There I calculated net asset values for mutual and other stresses that come with your new job? captain, he noted that in 2013, his first season, of study that interested me. I dabbled in funds, hedge funds, and government funds. A. I think my experience as an auditor there was only one senior on the roster. He The Mims Gallery will showcase the artwork multiple other majors (including elementary The mutual fund calculations were sent to has greatly prepared me for dealing with said the higher number of four-year players of restauranteur and painter Ben Knight education, psychology, political science and and displayed on the NASDAQ. disgruntled customers. Additionally, my helped with continuity and the mentoring of from January 13 until February 26. Knight is English) before I realized that accounting Q. Talk about the ways your previous experience in accounts payable has helped younger student-athletes. co-owner of the renowned Chef & the Farmer fit my personality. I grew to appreciate how jobs will prepare you for your new post. prepare me as well. It’s truly important to Injury prevented Thorfinnsson, a restaurant in Kinston and the co-star (with methodical accounting can be. That’s not to A. In previous roles, I had interactions think about how you would feel if you were native of Iceland, from playing in the tourney his wife) of the award-winning PBS series “A say that there aren’t gray areas (something I with a variety of people. That’s one of the in a given situation and to respond accord- championship. Bothered by a nagging groin Chef’s Life.” The gallery will host a reception quickly realized when I became an auditor). positive things about working in public ingly. In the words of Maya Angelou, “I’ve problem, he played in the semi-final game, a for the artist with live music on January 20. Q. When you were a student, I was al- accounting. You’re constantly meeting new learned that people will forget what you said 1-0 win over Greensboro, but watched from Photo courtesy of E. Adelman ways impressed not just by your intelligence people (new clients and co-workers) and you see FINANCIAL AID pg2 2 North Carolina Wesleyan College, Rocky Mount, North Carolina 27804 December 9, 2016 NEWS & OPINION Survey: Students Admit Overuse of Social Media, Facebook Still Tops By Jessica Brown Some students favor Snapchat because it’s cat pictures with little words,” he said. on the baseball team and his girlfriend. The survey revealed that: Senior Staff Writer not as public as other social media sites. An overwhelming majority--74 The most common topics include • 48 students text in class occasionally The results are in and Facebook is When asked why Snapchat was preferred, students--admitted that they would “day-to-day activities,” meetings with • 22 students text in class every day the social media platform of choice for an anonymous student said, “Because it’s a like to spend less time on social media. friends, gossip and “keeping in touch.” • 15 students text in every class many Wesleyan students. glimpse at people’s lives. It’s only a couple For many, social media are a constant In-class texting was the final • 15 students never text during class. Out of 100 surveys, Facebook came out of seconds long so your attention doesn’t distraction as well as a source of anxiety. question on the survey. This is a on top with 37 votes. In second place was “I'd rather spend less time on social lapse.” The student added that it’s faster to practice permitted by some Wesleyan from pg 1 media,” Russell said. “I’d like to be less FINANCIAL AID Snapchat with 22 and in third was Twitter keep in touch with Snapchat than Facebook. professors but forbidden by others. people will forget what you did, but people connected. It’s a main trigger of anxiety with 20. Another popular site was Instagram The third most popular medium, Brabble acknowledged the habit. will never forget how you made them feel.” to be constantly consuming informa with 13 votes, while others finished far Twitter, became famous for the use of - “I text in class every day in, usually, Q. As an undergrad, you had tattoos and behind: Tumblr (2), YouTube (2), Pinterest hashtags. Many celebrities, big businesses, tion.” Other findings indicated that: every class,” she said. “It depends on piercings. When you entered the business (1), and Club Penguin (1). Two students and fictional movie and TV characters are • 13 students were happy with their cur- the class. I'll text through my religion world, what kind of reactions did you get indicated “no social media” on their surveys. on Twitter. Trey Russell and Casey Young rent amount of time using social media class, but reply to only one or two from supervisors and colleagues? And what Facebook is popular for a variety of voted for Twitter as their favorite social • 8 said it didn’t matter messages in chemistry or biology.” advice would you give Wesleyan students? reasons. Audrey Flemings and Joshua media platform. “It has the most to see,” • 5 wanted to spend more time A. I had one full-back tattoo and multiple Campbell voted for Facebook. “I can keep said Young. “It gives news as well as my The Decree survey touched on other piercings. My hair color was essentially every up with friends and see everyone’s opin- friends’ current posts and funny videos.” issues beyond social media. Asking for color of the rainbow, and it was easy to spot ions and reactions to issues,” Campbell As for why he likes Twitter, Russell said, estimates of time spent on their phones, me from across campus. It’s fair to say that said. Flemings also uses Facebook to keep “It offers strong community without the survey found that: I looked like a kid from a punk rock video. I in touch with friends and family around lengthy posts. It's my main news source • 46 students spend 1-3 hours per day grew up surrounded by blue-collar family and the world, a common reason cited by because you see news and interact as it's • 28 said 3 to 5 hours friends, and tattoos weren’t as taboo as they are international students. Other students use happening. And it's fast, and I don't need • 26 said 5 to as many as 12 hours in the business world. That being said, I knew I Facebook to share pictures, video chat, or to spend lots of time on social media.” When it comes to texting, students wanted to pursue a business career and that I’d take advantage of the messenger feature. Instagram is a site for sharing pictures reported a wide range of usage habits. need to cover up the tattoos while at work. Snapchat is another good way to keep and Caitlin Brabble is a regular user. “I Some students send about 50 to 100 texts I think tattoos will become less and less in touch with friends and family, but for can follow a wide variety of accounts that per day, while one student admitted to taboo as the years progress, but there’s now a different reason. Students say that it not cater to my interests, like makeup and food sending more than 4,000. Unable to put a generational gap that still limits them in only lets users send pictures and short and squirrels, all while getting to see cute an exact number on his texting, Harrell the workplace. It’s important for people to videos; it allows them to add filters that pictures of my friends,” she said. Richard figures he sends between 1,000 and 2,000 Photo by J. Brown keep this in mind when deciding on any can change the user’s voice or appearance. Harrell likes Instagram as well. “It’s mainly messages per day, many to his teammates permanent body modification. For our students, my recommendation is to keep The Election of Donald Trump—The View from Sweden tattoo placement in mind. Like it or not, many employers do not allow tattoos. An By John Kostet (’12) He was interviewed in the days following Swedes got up early that morning to see the A. It’s difficult to describe, as I guess it’s equally important consideration is what Editor’s Note: the election. final results being announced. No one has been the weirdest campaign in history. It you’re getting. Does it have meaning to Wesleyan alum John Q. How closely did you—and your been talking about anything else and prob- was so sad to see discussions of substantial you? Would you still be happy with it 5, 10, Kostet was asked to friends and fellow Swedes––follow the ably won’t in the upcoming few days. In policies being toppled by scandals, personal 50, 70 years from now? All of my tattoos offer an international U.S. presidential campaign? Sweden, interest is huge in U.S politics. It’s remarks and disgraceful statements. I don’t have personal meaning to me, and I put perspective on the A. It’s been difficult to not follow the a bit bizarre actually. Personally, I’d rather really know what to think of Trump, to be a lot of consideration into each of them. U.S. Presidential elec- campaign, as Swedish media has been all see more reporters on the streets of Brussels honest. I’ve been struggling to take him I don’t recommend being impulsive with tion. A 2012 graduate, over the trail since January. On election as the EU affects us more. But I guess EU seriously, but I guess there’s no choice now. something that’s essentially permanent. Kostet majored in night, I had to set the alarm for 4 a.m. due to policy isn’t as much of a reality show. When it comes to Hillary, it would have Photo courtesy of Q. Let's talk about your life outside J. Kostet political science, the time difference. I stayed up until around Q. What were your general impres- been so nice to see her break that glass ceil- of work. What do you and your husband, minored in journalism, the time Trump got Wisconsin and then I sions of the two leading candidates and ing. But my overall impression is the same Manoli, like to do in your free time? wrote about politics and sports as a senior went back to bed for an hour. I think a lot of the campaign itself? with her as it was with Obama; she would A. We have two spoiled rotten pit bulls that staff writer for The Decree, and played probably have continued to fight Congress to are both rescues. They’re our children, and guard on the Bishops basketball team. carry out reforms in a minor but steady way. Q. they get treated accordingly. Their names are He now works as a senior advisor in Issue In-Focus: What’s Your What was your reaction to Trump’s victory? A. Monday and Tuesday. We rescued Tuesday international affairs at the Department for I was devastated. After eight years of first. She was about a year old when we Regional Development at the County Council Primary Source for News? progressive policy, I actually thought intel- adopted her and she was already named (after of Norrbotten in Sweden. “I’m responsible Codan Breckenridge are included in social media so it’s easy lectuals had gained greater influence. The most the Lynyrd Skynyrd song ‘Tuesday’s Gone’). for coordinating and supporting our political I don’t spend a lot of time watching to access them. I can honestly say that I frustrating thing is that groups of old, angry Tuesday is queen bee (or so she thinks). engagement toward the European Union, our the news. If I do watch, I’ll check what spend half a normal day on social media white men get to continue to shatter the future Monday appeared one New Year’s Eve (which neighboring regions surrounding the Baltic Channel 4 News back home (in Jack- just to stay on top of what’s going on. for young minorities. I think most Swedes and happened to be a Monday) and she was Seas as well as the European Arctic,” he noted. sonville, Florida) posts on Instagram. I Nella Scoggins Europeans are afraid of what this lunatic will emaciated and timid. He was only supposed to Kostet lives about two hours south of the like that station because it’s unbiased and On a typical day, I consume about do to the world, especially when it comes to be a foster, but we fell in love with him. He’s a Arctic Circle in the town of Lulea, where one can centered around a beach lifestyle. If I’m 20 minutes of news. I have an app that climate change. But as I’ve lived in the U.S, big baby that’s just happy to be loved. Outside ski, in sunlight, at 11 p.m. during the summer. at home, it’s often on while I’m eating notifies me of breaking news happen- my immediate concern was more towards the of ‘the Days,’ we love roller coasters. We even On December 1, he reported temperatures of 20 breakfast so I’d watch, on average, about ing within the area. The app is for ABC communities that are directly affected by the went to Ohio for a week just to go to Cedar degrees F and a few inches of snow on the ground. 30 minutes a day. On my phone, I look 11, a channel I’ve been watching since segregated discourse that this man promotes. at posts for about 5-15 minutes per day. I was old enough to read. ABC 11 is Q. Since the election, what have Point. I like going to King’s Dominion during Carolynn Davern the most popular station back home. Swedes been saying about the outcome? Halloween. The night is filled with scary HE I don't typically spend much time Quinn Tobias A. Most Swedes woke up with shock. sights, and you get to ride coasters in the dark. T each day consuming the news, which I spend around an hour a day reading Nobody could believe it actually happened. The adrenaline rush is astounding. I love it. ECREE is probably a bad thing if I want to be a or watching the news. Since most news Most of us are scared of how things will Q. You've been a volunteer for a local D well-informed individual. I mostly hear media is biased one way or the other, I develop with such an erratic president. A lot veterans organization. Describe those since 1960 things from others, or on the radio. If it’s try to get information from both sides. of commentators are telling us how Russia experiences. “of, by, and for the Wesleyan community.” something that catches my interest, I’ll do If watching TV, I’ll look at Fox News is pleased with the U.S taking a protectionist A. I used to be a very active volunteer for TA F F more research and look for news sites. I’ll for one perspective and then tune into approach to international affairs, while the the VFW Post in Rocky Mount. My father, a s usually click links for local newspapers CNN for the other. If a topic catches European Union is certainly not. We fear Vietnam veteran, is the commander. They used Senior Staff Writers or news sites like CNN, if it’s something my interest, I’ll Google it and read the global economy might go into another to have a weekly bingo night to raise money, and my mom and I would work in the kitchen Jessica Brown, David Robinson major. I used to watch local news a lot at multiple articles from different sources recession unless Trump modifies his stand night, but I don't really watch cable TV in an attempt to get the full picture of selling food. She would cook and I would take on free trade. But what I can tell from social Staff Writers anymore since I started using Netflix. I the issue. Learning both sides helps me media and friends is that many are worried and serve orders. Unfortunately, the cost of Curtis Biscoe, Codan Breck- followed news more closely before the see through the bias and allows me to about how minority groups in the U.S, such bingo night eventually outweighed the benefit enridge, Carolynn Davern, presidential election, but probably still not think for myself. as the LGBT-community, will be treated. and we had to cancel it. Veterans, particularly Kre’Shaun Davis, Grace Lee, as much as I should have. Vietnam vets, hold a special place in my heart Johnathan Pickler, Melvin Pitts, KreShaun Davis and always will. A lot of my dad’s friends were Nella Scoggins, Quinn Tobias I get my news from every news Blue Recycling Bins Reappear on Campus and are Vietnam veterans. I still remember channel there is on TV, but mainly from By Jessica Brown (Gravely, Braswell, and Pearsall), the them watching movies like “Platoon,” “Full Special Contributors CNN. From a personal standpoint, I Senior Staff Writer Gateway Technology Center, the Taylor Metal Jacket,” and “Hamburger Hill,” all of Grace Wallace (Photos) think CNN explains news more deeply Blue bins have appeared all over cam- Center, and the first floor of each residence which are excellent movies, by the way. and in a more detailed way than other pus as part of the Wesleyan Science Club’s hall. Sodexo empties the bins found in the Q. You could have gotten a banking or Faculty Advisor news stations. There’s more variety new and improved recycling program. library and Hartness Center. public accounting job in Charlotte, or worked Dr. William Grattan on CNN. I spend about four hours a The recycling program is beneficial To help make recycling easier, the at a tech firm in the Research Triangle, but English Department day watching the news. I haven’t been for several reasons. “Recycling is im- Science Club has placed a sign on the you chose to work at Wesleyan. Why? portant because it reduces the amount 179 Braswell • Phone: 985-5336 watching so much lately because of wall above each bin. The sign lists what A. Because I’ve always felt at home here. school, but on a regular day I watch a lot. of waste in landfills and it reduces the is considered recyclable and what’s Regardless of what a ‘punk’ I may have looked Submission Policy Johnathan Pickler need for raw materials, which puts a not. Food is not recyclable. It’s also like when I was a student, my professors and I get my news from multiple strain on our resources,” said Science important to note that while Starbucks the staff always treated me with respect and Club President Carolynn Davern. The Decree encourages students, sources. The main one is Twitter, which cups are recyclable, the straws are not, appreciated me for me. I never felt judged. updates a section called “Moments.” The college partnered with the Science faculty and staff to submit letters because of their waxy coating. College is where you’re able to start exploring The Moments tab follows important Club and purchased blue plastic bins. In a Davern said that the bins are typically who you really are and who you want to be. to the editor and opinion pieces events around the world. It ranges previous recycling initiative, items were full at the end of each week. But she It’s the time when it’s okay to go through some that focus on campus news and from sports to national politics to placed in blue cardboard boxes situated noted that the club has encountered sev- rebellious and awkward phases (within reason). events. Note: Such submissions world news. My other primary source around campus, but there were issues eral recent problems. One is that members I was encouraged and supported to succeed will be edited for conciseness and is Snapchat and its daily updates of with bottles and drink cups. Leftover of the Wesleyan community often will when I was a student, and I feel encouraged and liquids would soak into the cardboard, grammar and checked for accuracy. world news. I spend about 30 minutes a use the bins as trash cans, disposing of supported to succeed now that I work here. I day on the news; Twitter and Snapchat staining and damaging the boxes. food and unfinished drinks. This makes it love the diversity and the characters at Wesleyan. Davern explained that the 12-member To make a submission or suggest a provide easy access. difficult, and messy, for the club members I couldn’t ask for a better group of coworkers. Melvin Pitts club is responsible for going around once a during the collection process. story idea, email the faculty advisor at I’m excited that my new role will allow me I receive my news from social week and emptying the recycling bins. Club Davern also said that the club has to help provide students with the opportunity [email protected]. media. Social media has become a tool members take turns collecting recyclables and removed the bins and suspended collec- to receive the wonderful experience of being a for news because nearly everyone uses transporting them to the big green receptacle tion of recyclables in the residence halls. Wesleyan graduate. Financial aid is definitely a The Decree publishes 5-6 issues it. I also feel social media is a good located in the Bradley Hall parking lot. There was a problem, she said, with large determining factor as to if and/or where a per academic year; copy deadlines tool because you receive feedback The bins are located across campus, club members emptying the bins in a student attends college. I know in my new role making recycling easy. The locations are vary from issue to issue. and the views of others about an event timely fashion. The club hopes to resume I can have a large impact on our students, and I that’s occurred. Most news networks the first floor of each classroom building collections after revamping its schedule. want that impact to be a positive one. December 9, 2016 North Carolina Wesleyan College, Rocky Mount, North Carolina 27804 3 SPORTS Sports Briefs Football Team Finishes 4-2 in USA South Women’s Hoops The NCWC football team placed we’ll continue to challenge our The women’s basketball team opened the second in the USA South Conference season with a bang, winning four of its first for the second consecutive year, a 38-34 players and this five games and taking the Jean Edge Classic. home loss to Averett costing the Bishops a program. If you The team is flourishing despite injuries to its chance at first place. want to be the best, two point guards, sophomores Daijah Davis and With a conference record of 4-2 you have to get in Cheria Turrentine. Coach Artina Trader likes (5-4 overall), the team finished one loss the arena with the the way her team has handled the situation, with behind co-champions Maryville (6-1) and best, both for seeing players filling the position “by committee. It’s Huntingdon (6-1), an opponent Wesleyan where you are at been impressive the way the ladies have been defeated in its conference opener. Wes- the present moment willing to do what the team needs.” and what changes/ The scoring load has been shared by seniors Alexis leyan saw its conference game against rival Fitzgerald and Timyra Staton and junior KeChae Methodist canceled due to the October improvements may Parker. In the early going Fitzgerald averaged 14 flooding that hit the Fayetteville area. need to be made points per game, more than doubling last year’s The 2016 season featured the debut to compete on the average. Staton has averaged close to a double- of starting quarterback Nate Gardner, national level. Our Malik Adams just concluded his stellar NCWC career. See feature on double, with 13.8 ppg. and 8.8 rebounds. Parker the improvement of the team’s young goal is to compete page 4. SI photo leads the Bishops with 15.8 ppg. to go with 6.8 rpg. defense, and the final season of all- at the national level. “Alexis and Timyra have really stepped up so far,” conference wide receiver Malik Adams. Q. Your team scored a major win make it happen. Averett got the last score Trader said. “And KeChae is starting to come into her own.” Following the season, Coach Jeff (41-31) against Huntingdon. Then you and ultimately won the game. Averett is Trader attributes the success on offense to im- Filkovski was interviewed by The Decree. lost to Maryville (31-17), a good team in a climbing football team, putting a ton proved ball movement. “That allows us to find the Q. of effort into the success of the program. open player and look for a high-percentage shot—a We’ve long been curious about the its own right, on the road. In hindsight, way your staff schedules non-conference do you feel that your team became Don’t look at how they finished these past layup or a short jumper in the paint––instead of two weeks, as they played without their trying to ‘chuck threes’ or outshoot our opponent.” games. For example, this season you over-confident after beating Huntingdon, last year's conference champs? starting quarterback, a very good player. As her team prepares to head into the faced the reigning national champs, Q. USA South Conference season, Trader didn’t KeChae Parker heads up court in recent Mt. Union (45-10 loss). What's your A. I don’t think that was the issue. Prior to 2016, you had two solid hesitate in naming the team’s more urgent action. UPDATES: The women scored only philosophy on picking your opponents? Maryville is a very good football team. We quarterbacks, Robbie Lanier and Dustin need: Defense. “We need to tighten up defense 4 second-quarter points in a 70-49 loss A. We’re competitors in the ultimate struggled to get started, but with that, we Midgett, for three full seasons. This year, and rebounding at every position,” she said. against Lynchburg in their first game of team game and we really believe in were right there in the game at the half. The your turned to sophomore Nate Gardner The Bishops opened the non-conference December. Caila Spruill scored a team-high our players and their growth. I don’t third quarter decided that game. We just (52 percent completion rate, 202 yards season 3-0, with their second and third victories passing per game, 16 touchdowns /11inter- coming as hosts of the Jean Edge Classic. In the 14 points for the game. The NCWC men’s team think I would shy away from playing missed our opportunities and never got into a (5-3) opened the new month with back-to-back anyone, anywhere. The Mt Union flow where we could make our presence felt. ceptions) who had played little college ball. championship game, Wesleyan beat Randolph Describe his evolution this season. College, 72-69, in overtime. Parker (19 points), wins. It beat Bob Jones University and then, contract happened because we both had Q. What happened in the loss to Averett? A. Nate did a good job this year, but Fitzgerald (16) and Staton (14) led the way. in a thrilling overtime game, won 95-91, over openings on our schedules that needed Even after losing to Maryville, it seems that Roanoke to claim the Roger Taylor Invitational. filled. We played a very competitive your season hinged on the Averett game. I’m sure if you asked him, there’d be some Men’s Hoops Adrian Moore and Justin Tankelewicz led the schedule this year, with our strength of A. We dug ourselves a hole and we things he wished he had a chance to do The men’s team routed Mid-Atlantic Bishops with 26 points apiece. For a profile on schedule ranking us 5th in the nation. found a way to climb out of it. We had over again. The quarterback position is very demanding, given the style of offense Christian to end November with a 3-3 record. Moore, turn to page 4. SI photo Our non-conference opponents combined ample opportunities to go up a couple The Bishops won, 92-68, as sophomore forward for a 24-6 record. Moving forward, scores in the second half and just didn’t we run. Both mentally and physically, each Chris Sause came off the bench to score a team- week you must prepare and bring your leading 18 points. Junior guard Adrian Moore scored “A” game. I call it functioning. If that 17 points and pulled in a team-high 10 rebounds. position isn’t functioning, we’ll struggle The 2016-17 Bishops are a young group, Volleyball Rises in Conference, offensively. We could all look back at with no seniors and only two juniors, Moore moments when we struggled and when we and forward Malique Judd, on the roster. Ousted in First Playoff Round functioned. I think Nate grew throughout Moore said the inexperience of the younger players has been evident at times. “They Five seniors played their final match as the season and now needs to make that weren’t used to the UP tempo of the college the Bishops fell in the first round of the next step of consistency. He possesses a game,” he said, noting that many players were USA South Conference tourney held at very good skill set for the position and I surprised by the hard work demonstrated by Meredith College November 1. know we haven’t seen Nate’s best football their more-experienced teammates. The team qualified for the conference on yet. It’ll be exciting when that time comes. But he added that the young guys have the strength of its 7-8 record, good for the sixth Q. What, in particular, does Nate need made adjustments and their overall play has seed. Last season, the Bishops completed the to do in 2017 to reach the next level? impressed him. conference season with a 5-14 mark. A. Focus on the little things and “We played in some tight games early Facing third-seeded William Peace become a perfectionist in those areas. and they’ve proven that they’re up for the University in round one, the Bishop lost in Q. Could you be more specific? challenge,” Moore said. “I'm so proud of the A. way the guys have fought so far, but we’ve three straight games, with the Pacers edging The fundamentals of the posi- got a ways to go and it’s a long season.” the Bishops, 25-23, in the decisive game. tion—footwork, ball-handling, throwing Moore expects the Bishops to surprise The match marked the last appearance Seniors Christina Huber, Ayla Brewer, Tori Stewart, Evie Hunter and in balance, pocket presence, working his their conference foes. “We’re a young team,” for five seniors: setter Ayla Brewer (a team- Yasmin Alexander. SI photo eyes, that sort of thing. Nate now has the he said. “In the preseason, we were picked to leading 743 assists), libero Christina Huber experience of starting nine games and he’s finish seventh in the conference, but we know (second in program history with more than her in position to be a successful outside works, the more she stands out and got a special skill set, but will he be willing we’re a better team than that. We challenge 1,900 digs), outside hitter Evie Hunter hitter. And Hannah stepped up her game shows how much desire she has for the to take the next step and up his game? every opponent and compete every day.” (second on the team in kills with 163, 2016 as a defensive specialist. We relied on game. Academic excellence factors into Q. You're losing several seniors to our recruitment efforts as well. We want Women’s Soccer All-Sportsmanship Team selection), hitter Hannah for consistent passes and great graduation, among them Malik Adams, Tori Stewart (fourth Bishop to surpass defense; she was a great complement to to build a foundation for the future and one of the top playmaker's in the football The women’s soccer team compiled a 9-4-1 1,000 kills for her career), and reserve senior Christina Huber. We look forward overall success of the program. program’s 13-year history. What's it been record (10-6-1 overall), earning the fourth seed Q. defensive specialist Yasmin Alexander. to seeing Autumn’s and Hannah’s pro- Have you and Chuck been like watching him the past four years? in the USA South Conference tournament. gression over the next couple of years. looking at new regions of the country A. But Wesleyan was upset, 1-0, at home by Second-year Coach Vicky Gentile was It’s been exciting to watch the explosive interviewed after the season. Overall, the freshman class took us in the in your recruiting? plays that he brought to our offense and the fifth-seeded Averett Cougars, who got a A. second-half goal to eliminate the Bishops. Q. Your team took a step in the confer- direction we want this program to go. Yes, we’ve been recruiting in the special teams. But what’s been most impres- Wesleyan looked to be in control early, getting ence this season, ending with a 7-8 USA Q. How do you and Assistant Coach Midwest, the South, and a little bit of sive is his growth over the four years, from off the first six shots of the match. Its first three South mark. What particular improve- (Chuck) Shoemaker recruit? Do you look the West Coast more this year than ever a freshman talent to a seasoned offensive shots were all on goal and saved by Cougar ments did you see in your players? for certain physical traits or focus more before. Lately we’re seeing a lot of suc- weapon. From the stands, not many people goalkeeper Bailee Brown. A. I would say positive hitting percent- on filling particular positions? cess in Virginia and Florida. The past two could see how defenses would change from AU then got on the scoreboard less than age, blocking, and, most important, defense. A. We recruit based on needs for the years I’ve traveled to the AAU Volleyball week to week to account for Malik. Heck, five minutes into the second half when a Q. upcoming year; technique; and skill Championships in Orlando. This tourna- 30-yard shot by Kaitlyn Barbour found the What was the highlight of the year? we had a team put two guys on him for the A. It was making it to the conference set. The overall key is athletic ability ment makes recruits readily available for entire game. Sure, they shut him down to an back of the goal. The Bishops missed a trio all levels of coaches across the country. of equalizers in the period as an Ella Burkhart tournament, which we hadn’t accom- and work ethic. The harder the athlete extent, but others shined that day. I’ve nothing blast hit the post, a Jordan Forbess shot was plished since 2012. As far as individual but good things I can say about him. It was saved off the line by an AU defender, and a matches, I would say it was our five-set NCWC fans have seen the last of a joy to see him as a player, but it will be our Marissa Aguilar touch was saved by Brown. victory over Eastern Mennonite Univer- Soccer from page 1 forwards Caetano Viegas (7 goals, 2 relationship that will last a lifetime. The Bishops outshot the Cougars, 17-9, on the day. sity, a feat that was long overdue. Halliday concurred that discipline was assists) and Julius Oskarsson (3 goals, 2 Q. Entering the season, the defense The match represented an abrupt end to a Q. What was most disappointing about a problem at times, noting that Maryville assists). Other graduating seniors include was young. Describe the improvement successful season for Wesleyan, which was your season? players were successful in irritating the midfielder Drew Wiltse (2014 team you saw in the D during 2016. dominant in September. A. A. By the time Wesleyan drubbed William Peace, It was disappointing when we didn’t fin- Bishops during their two matches. “They got MVP) and Alex Andrade and defenders We did everything better. The players 4-0, on October 2, it had built a 6-1 conference ish off the matches that were within reach. Our under our skin with little fouls here and there, H. Bjarneyjarson and Thorfinnsson. became more comfortable in the system. We mark and looked poised to challenge for the potential and determination were there; we which upset some of our players,” he said. Despite losing 10 seniors, Coach Taal tackled better, we rushed the quarterback regular season crown. The Bishops then split just fell short at times. For example, we’d be remains optimistic that the Bishops can build better, and we limited the big plays more. their next seven matches, including a scoreless, up 14-11 in a fifth set (15 points wins in such on their recent success. He expressed enthu- Certainly, we need continued growth on the two-overtime tie against Greensboro. situations), but we’d end up losing. We just siasm about his crop of freshmen, which, he defensive side of the football, but I really The first-round loss meant the end of their made too many mistakes at critical points.” said, made a significant contribution to the believe we took a positive step forward. Wesleyan career for four seniors: forward Q. In a sense, the 2016 team was offense. Calling it the most talented fresh- Q. What freshmen impressed you this Logan Bill (a team-leading 6 goals and 14 reminiscent of the Anna Hart-Meredith season and appear ready to become major points), defender Leannza Ussery, and reserves man class during his time as head coach, Smith squad in that there’s a bunch of Taal highlighted the success of Boompong, contributors in years to come? Brittany McGraw and Ashley Sanknar. A. (Sports Information contributed to this report.) talented seniors graduating all at once. Baboucarr Njie (7 goals), Benjamin Osei, I don’t want to single out guys from Besides top-level skills, what are you Joseph Storer, Tyler Jones, and Halliday. our freshmen class, but I will say that it has Cross Country losing with your graduating seniors? In 2017, other key returners will include the chance to be a very good class, and the The Bishops cross country team came in A. We’ll be losing experience and leader- Magner, Jordan Davis (4 goals, 6 assists), AJ future of the program could be very bright. 12th place in the USA Conference meet held ship. Ayla Brewer, Christina Huber, Yasmin Wadda (a team-leading 10 goals), Olafur Ein- Q. If you could sum up the entire in Tallulah Falls, Georgia on October 31. Alexander, Evie Hunter and Tori Stewart all arsson (6 goals), Larry Sawyer, Sheriff Secka season in a word, what would it be? Placing four runners in the top ten, Piedmont have dedicated ample time and energy to our and Anthony Cerina. “They’re all key players A. Closer. College took the conference title. The Lions were program. It’ll be hard to replace them, but with important roles and contributions,” Taal Q. Your staff is well into recruiting for paced by medalist Reese Bowles, who completed they’ve left their mark on us and the school. said. “We’re very lucky to have such a talented next season. How has it been going? the 6K course in 23 minutes and 42 seconds. Q. What freshmen impressed you this year? group of returners for the 2017 season.” A. The month of December, we’ll have Wesleyan’s top runner was Sarah Grossman, A. Autumn Spence and Hannah Huls a footprint that will cover North Carolina who ran the race in 32 minutes and 27 seconds Taal noted that recruitment for next year (almost three minutes better than her times earlier made the most impact this year. Autumn has gone well. “We’re ahead of where we and Virginia and we’ll dip into DC and in the season). Other participants included Hannah stepped in when there was an injury and were last year at this time,” he said. “We have South Carolina. It’s an exciting time as Ivestor (35:45) and Jade Jordan (38:36—two proved that she could be a dominant three new players coming in the spring and a we get to promote the vision and growth Senior defender Toby Thornfinnsson. SI photo minutes shorter than her earlier times in 6K events). three-rotation player. Her strong arm put good number of prospects under our radar.” of our college and football program. 4 North Carolina Wesleyan College, Rocky Mount, North Carolina 27804 December 9, 2016 WESLEYAN PROFILES Wesleyan Receiver Malik Adams Ends Standout Career By Nella Scoggins the things that he does,” he said. “He’s I did as a freshman,” he said. Adams said other times, all the defensive attention al- by Wesleyan. “I came to visit and they Decree Sports Writer real meticulous in the stuff that he does.” he’s become more effective at making in- lowed his offensive teammates to succeed. still wanted me. That’s what made me Senior wide receiver Malik Adams has Adams grew up in Selma, a close-knit game adjustments, based on the defensive “Not many fans could see how defenses want to come to Wesleyan,” he said. enjoyed a phenomenal career at NCWC town with a population of just over 6,000. coverage. “At my position, it’s about a lot would change from week to week to After racking up 38 receptions for over Last season’s Offensive Player of the It was easy to find other kids to organize of reads. So you do stuff based off what account for Malik,” the coach said. “Heck, 600 yards in his first year, Adams still Year, Adams has just been named to the games in his neighborhood. Sports the defense does,” he said. we had a team put two guys on him for the attracted the interest of other colleges. “I was USA South Conference first team for allowed him to “stay out of trouble and Entering the 2016 season, Adams was entire game. Sure, they shut him down to like, ‘If it was meant for me to go beyond the third consecutive year. Working with crazy messes,” he said. He described day- intent on surpassing his performance an extent, but others shined that day.” college and play, then it will happen,’ so there new quarterback Nate Gardner, Adams long basketball games with his buddies in 2015. He wanted to be a force. “Be Wesleyan has 20 wide receivers, four was no need for me to transfer,” he said. caught 53 passes and a league-leading and pickup football games with a brother that guy that other teams are like ‘Man, of them starters. There’s so much talent Over the years, besides impressive 97.9 yard per game and 11 touchdowns. and other members of his extended family. we’re going to have a problem with on the team, so what makes Malik offensive statistics, Adams has built a He will graduate as Wesleyan’s career- Besides football, Adams has played receiver number five.’ I wanted to be Adams such a standout player? “He’s solid reputation as a team leader. leader in every receiving category, and other organized sports—basketball, track that plus more,” he said, adding that he consistent,” says D’Marcus Winston, a “Always doing right,” Adams said in his 47 career TDs is a USA South record. and baseball (“I was just a baserunner “didn’t want to disappoint” the crowds, wide receiver, who went on to say that describing what makes a good leader. “Well, it seems unreal,” Adams said in really,” he said with a smile). But his whether fans or pro scouts. Adams seldom makes mistakes. Adams feels that in order for a player to an early-season interview. “I never thought focus has always been on the gridiron. Over the past four years Head Coach Jeff James Parrish, a defensive lineman, be considered a leader, he should be able to I’d be a senior in college playing sports. So Adams started playing park and Filkovski has relished watching the develop- believes Adams is one of the best col- take direction well and not be told over and you know it seems like yesterday it was my recreational sports in his hometown. “At ment of Adams, one of the top play-makers legiate receivers in the nation. “He’s a over again how to do something. “Others freshman year and now it’s my senior year.” the time I didn’t really take sports serious,” in the program’s 13-year history. He’s been great route runner,” Parrish said. “And are gonna be like ‘Dang, coach is always Adams has seen a tremendous growth he said. When he reached middle school, impressed with the “explosive plays” Adams I’ve never seen him drop a pass since saying something to me but he’s never in his skill set since his freshman year. “My however, he became more involved in has made as a receiver, runner and kick I’ve been here.” saying anything to him,’ and that’s because routes have gotten way better,” he said. “In football. “My second year I barely played,” returner, as he matured from a freshman to a Parrish praised Adams’ work ethic and he’s always doing the right thing,” he said. the weight room, my performance has gotten he recalled. “My eighth grade year, that’s “seasoned offensive weapon.” commitment to becoming a great athlete. So, does Malik Adams consider better and my discipline has gotten better.” when I really started playing.” Filkovski said that Adams garnered lots He pointed out that his teammate is often himself a leader? “Yeah, especially on His football knowledge has improved Adams became a starter in eighth grade of attention from other teams. Sometimes the first one on the practice field and the the football field and off of it because as well. “I understand the game more than and he looked like he was on his way to he flourished despite the double coverage; last one off. “He pays close attention to I’m never getting into trouble,” he stardom. Then he ran into a new roadblock said. Adams is one to not get caught in his freshman year of high school. up in a lot of drama. Being that he For Adrian Moore Basketball Was a Way Out “My ninth-grade year, I went back stays to himself a lot of time, you don’t he walks onto the court. He is determined to leading his team to a conference champion- By Johnathan Pickler down and I wasn’t playing very much,” hear much about him other unless it’s put more banners up before he graduates. ship, Moore’s main personal goal is to earn Decree Staff Writer he said, noting that he was a kicker related to football. Although he is an intense competitor and conference player of the year honors. An all-state athlete in both basketball on the junior varsity. He saw limited Asked where he sees himself in five a lover of basketball, Moore came to Wes- After graduation, the organizational and football at Plymouth High School, action that season as a quarterback and years, the five-foot, nine-inch, 175-pound leyan not only to play hoops, but to become administration major plans to coach Adrian Moore has always been a huge receiver, due, he said, to the coaches receiver hopes it’s the NFL. “I got a a better all-around person. He stated that basketball at the collegiate level. “I competitor. playing “their favorites.” chance,” he said. “I’ve had some coaches Coach John Thompson was a major reason want to stay around basketball because Moore called Plymouth “close-knit,” but Adams transferred at the end of his from the league coming to my games so he decided to become a Bishop. “Coach it’s been so good to me,” he said. “I feel “tough,” with a high crime rate for a small freshman year and, at his new school, we’ll see how that works out,” he said. Thompson never once told me that I would be I can be a successful coach because of town. He was glad to leave, noting that many began to see more and more playing time. If that doesn’t work out, then Adams guaranteed a starting spot,” said Moore. “But the knowledge I have for the game.” of his peers have remained in Plymouth "My sophomore year till now, I’ve been sees a future for him in coaching and he did tell me that after my four years here, I Moore would prefer to coach a and stagnated. “I would say the starting and I’ve been productive,” he said. working with children. women’s team, noting a shortage of male biggest issue is laziness,” he said. There were plenty of colleges that Malik Malik Adams has had a great career coaches in that field. “I feel that the women “It’s a blessing to make it out of Adams could have attended. But he chose at Wesleyan. If he had the chance to give listen better and they’re more fundamen- Plymouth. Without basketball, I North Carolina Wesleyan. Why did he pick advice to his high school self, Adams would tally sound than guys,” he explained. don’t know where I would be.” Wesleyan? Why not choose another school, tell him to take school more seriously. Regardless of whether it’s a men’s or A junior guard on the Bishops perhaps one in either Division II or III? “Think about the long run and something women’s team, Moore sees coaching as a basketball team, Moore always “Coming out of high school, my grades that you really wanted to do,” he said. way to honor his past coaches, give back to saw his favorite game as his way wasn’t really good,” Adams admitted. “I Adams always knew that he wanted to play the game, and make an impact on a young to college and the wider world. didn’t take high school very serious.” college ball but because he wasn’t dedicated person’s life, on the court and beyond. “I want He said he’s humbled by his Adams explained that there were a lot to his studies, it hindered the chance for him to inspire young adults to be the best that they opportunities at Wesleyan and of schools interested in him but that his to play football in a higher division. “Of can be,” he said. “I’ve had a lot of coaches doesn’t take them for granted. grades just weren’t good enough. “So I course you’re not gonna learn everything who were role models for me. If I can just “I know I have to push to be the went to a community college first,” he said. that you learn in college in high school but influence a life like that, then the work I’ve put best person I can be,” he said. While attending his local community try to build your knowledge and present into basketball will not have been in vain.” If you’ve ever seen Adrian college, Adams was still getting recruited yourself like you’re in college,” he said. Moore play basketball, you would know that he’s always the Jonathan Sarris: 2016 Exemplary Teacher Engages Students toughest player on the court. He By Jessica Brown to make you think as well.” It showed me that making history is never easy.” is a huge competitor and losing Senior Staff Writer Said Campbell, “He’s very lively, he Dr. Chad Ross, a new history department may be his least favorite thing In May of last year, history professor thoroughly explains everything, and you can really colleague, just finished co-teaching a World War to do. “Being the competitor I am Jonathan Sarris earned recognition in the form see his passion when he teaches,” he said. II class with Sarris. “He’s a passionate teacher,” is important because I’m the of Wesleyan’s Exemplary Teacher Award. One of Sarris’ advisees, Campbell appreciates Ross said. “Dr. Sarris possesses that rare ability leader of our young team,” said The award was announced at graduation. Sarris’ willingness to help students. “He’s a to hold a lecture and generate discussion among Moore. “I want everybody to Sarris, an associate professor, received a very helpful and thoughtful professor,” he said. students. There is engagement and there is come out and play their hearts out framed certificate, and a speech was made “There’s never been a time he hasn’t been there verve; to sit in his class is to learn to learn.” every time they step on the court.” about his teaching qualities and what made to offer advice, whether it be for a paper or other After beginning his career at Appalachian Moore has been consistent in his Jr. guard Adrian Moore SI photo him deserving of the award. “I felt lucky to classes or just general stuff.” State, Sarris came to Wesleyan in the early first two years of playing collegiate receive the award, since it’s been won in the While on a recent one-year sabbatical, 2000s. He started as an adjunct and in 2004, he basketball. Due to a ton of injuries his would definitely be a better person.” past by really good teachers who I respect and Sarris focused on two primary activities. was hired as a full-time professor. freshman year, Moore gained a starting spot Moore spends a lot of his free time in admire a lot,” Sarris said. First was the book he’s writing about a minor Sarris traces his interest in history to his and hasn’t looked back. “He was put into the gym perfecting his craft, working on his Jessica Brabble and Joshua Campbell have figure of Civil War history, Union Sergeant childhood in Washington, DC, “the cradle of a position in his freshman year where we jump shot and taking 100 free throws a day. taken classes with Sarris. The two agree that Boston Corbett. One of his specialties is the history,” he called it. The son of a State Depart- needed him to start at point guard after the first “I want to get better every day,” he said. “I he was more than deserving of the award. “He Civil War and its impact on the South. Sarris ment official, Sarris liked to visit Jamestown, game,” said Assistant Coach Nigel Thomas. want to lead my young team to a champion- deserved it,” Campbell said. “He works very has written articles and published a book, “A Williamsburg, and Gettysburg as a youth. “I “He’s improved tremendously on his ball ship. I know nothing hard comes easy; hard in the history department and it shows. He’s Separate Civil War” (University of Virginia was that kid that went to Civil War battlefields handling and he’s a good decision maker.” Plymouth has taught me that. That's why I go constantly coming up with new ideas for his Press), in his areas of interest. He said the sab- and thought it was fun,” he said. In his freshman year, Moore averaged hard every day.” Moore added that basketball students and he’s always researching and staying batical (a year without teaching responsibilities) Sarris is married to a historian. He and his 8.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and is often a good diversion for him. “Basketball up to date with current events and new findings.” allowed him time to think about his subject and wife, Karin Zipf, met in grad school at the 2.2 steals per game. In his sophomore is the only thing that can take my mind off Many students enjoy Sarris’ classes due to his do more research and writing, though his project University of Georgia. They both graduated year, he averaged 14.7 points, 4.6 anything and everything,” he said. teaching style and the enthusiasm he shows for his is still far from complete. around the same time, got their doctorates at the rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 2.2 points When Moore’s not on the court, he subject. Jammie Wacenske is a Wesleyan alum. “Dr. The second project involved training on “Re- same time, and got jobs (Dr. Zipf used to work per game. Moore was a first-team USA watches hoops, men’s and women’s, on Sarris it awesome,” said Wacenske, a history major, acting to the Past,” a role-playing game which at Wesleyan) at about the same time. Sarris says South Conference selection in 2015-16. television and he enjoys activities that build who took as many courses as possible with Sarris. teaches students by acting. Here’s a description of it’s great for them to be in the same field, because “Adrian plays harder than anybody team unity. He likes going out to eat with his His teaching methods have gained him a the game provided by Dr. Sarris: "Reacting to the they can share ideas about teaching and talk I’ve ever seen,” stated Chris Sause, a teammates as well as playing 2k against them. following among current students, history Past consists of elaborate games, set in the past, about books they like, and books they didn’t like. sophomore forward. “I really enjoy spending time with my team- majors and non-majors alike, Brabble said. in which students are assigned roles informed by He said the hardest part was finding a place Moore is motivated by a variety of mates,” Moore said. “I believe an important “He teaches history in a way that makes classic texts in the history of ideas. Class sessions where they both could pursue their professions. things. The biggest is his family. He stated, trait of a team is that they’re like a family.” it interesting to everyone,” said Brabble. “I are run entirely by students; instructors advise and They live in Greenville where Zipf teaches “I never want to let my family down.” For A returning starter, all-conference mean, I know someone who picked up a guide students and grade their oral and written history at ECU. While both teach American just about every home game, Moore’s fam- selection and back-to-back team defensive history minor just because of Dr. Sarris and his work. It seeks to draw students into the past, history, Zipf focuses more on women’s history ily is in attendance. Last year in a nail-biter player of the year, Moore is confident teaching. He's an extremely smart guy and I promote engagement with big ideas, and improve and she has released two books. against rival Averett University, the Bishops’ about Wesleyan’s chances in the upcoming like that he doesn't just lecture at you, but tries intellectual and academic skills." Asked if there’s ever competition to Marcus Williams hit a game-winning season. The Bishops finished 20-7 last year Brabble participated in the “Yalta Confer- publish between the two historians, Sarris three-pointer from the corner. Moore’s first and won the regular-season conference title ence,” a major event that took place after World said quite the contrary. “I feel the opposite reaction was to run into the stands with his before losing in the tournament. After a War II. “I think it's a really interesting way to of competitive with Karin,” he said. “Our family before celebrating with his team. successful year he knows that the Bishops teach students history,” she said. “It's a good way of scholarship is on very different topics, but He said that his father was his will be the team that conference foes want immersing them in an era and showing them some we share ideas and read each other's work all favorite coach. “My dad was the most to beat. “Coming off such a huge season of the difficulties that happened in real life.” She went the time. I’m very proud of her books and the influential coach I’ve had because he last year, we know we have a huge target on to say that the approach can be challenging and numerous awards she’s won for her writing.” was very strict on me,” Moore said. on our back,” said Moore. “We’re a young frustrating at times because each team had a different Outside the classroom, Sarris pursues many “He never let me take a play off and team, no seniors, but we’re very talented goal to achieve and there was a lot of compromising. hobbies. He said he subscribes to “way too always told me to strive for my best.” and ready to take on all challenges.” Campbell participated in several games; he many” streaming services so that he can watch as Moore is also motivated by a desire to Moore has set high goals for the team as concurred with Brabble. “It’s a great way to many old and new films as he can. A long-time leave behind a legacy at North Carolina well as himself. “Just like last year, we plan to learn,” he said. “You’re forced to learn material Washington Redskins fan, he enjoys tennis and Wesleyan. He likes the way he feels when he win the conference championship,” he said. because you’re that person in time. Re-enacting golf. “I like playing golf, badly,” he said with a sees the banner with “Conference Champs “I want to make it to the NCAA tournament taught me to empathize with historical figures laugh. And he loves spending time with his two 2015-2016” hanging in the gym every time and make it to the final four at least.” Besides Dr. Jonathan Sarris Photo by J. Brown and historical situations that shaped our world. sons, ages 16 and 13.