COURTBOUILLON A student production 1 October 2015 CAMPUS Dunn, Moton to be crowned Oct. 16 during Homecoming Louisiana rapper makes Kamara Dunn and Dakari Moton will um. Jatori McDowell, Senior Class presi- pick on student body surveys; however, the short list for concert, gets be crowned Mr. and Miss Dillard on Friday, dent and a member of the SAB, said stu- decision was made not to host Gates be- removed over incident Oct. 16, as part of Homecoming festivities dents attending should dress appropriately cause of what was described as irreconcil- Oct. 10-18, which were still being finalized in a “dress or a suit.” able differences and negative portrayals in as the Courtbouillon went to press. Homecoming, which typically has been the media. Other artists whose names fre- Rapper August Alsina has been named held in November, was moved to mid-Oc- quently appeared in the surveys included: 2 featured artist for the concert in Henson, tober in part because the SAB said DU’s Fetty Wap, Party Next Door and Migos in set for after the Coronation, according to event was later than any other HBCU, ac- addition to Alsina. Amber Fountaine-Pittman, chair of the cording to McDowell. Another reason Mc- McDowell said the SAB also will evalu- Student Activities Board, or SAB. Dowell cited was the problem with getting ate student response to the earlier Home- ETOUFEE Dunn, a math major from Bakersfield, artists in November, which is part of tour coming dates. Calif., and Moton, a biology major from season. Reserve, will be crowned in the PSB Atri- Rapper Kevin Gates had been the top See Homecoming on Page 2 ‘Eartha Kitt: Unauthorized Confessions’ 3 Ted Shine plays to open theatre’s 8Oth anniversary Former FAMU student recounts harrowing “A Trilogy of Shine,” three hazing life lesson one-act plays written by former Dillard University drama teach- er and playwright Ted Shine, 3 will start off Dillard University Theatre’s featured productions commemorating its historic 80th ETOUFEE anniversary with performances the weekends of Oct. 23-25 Houston business major and Oct. 30 to Nov. 1. to lead Freshman Class: Two other productions are scheduled this year in Cook 1 position left vacant Theatre: the annual Black His- tory production Feb. 18-20 and 25-27, directed by DU alumna 3 India MacDougal, and “The Gospel at Colonus,” April 8-10 and 15-17, directed by Assistant CAMPUS Professor Ray Vrazel. The plays written by Shine in the 1960s to be performed are Danielle Miller| Courtbouillon “Herbert III,” “Contribution” and “Shoes.” Vrazel, who is di- Dillard alumna Tyra Hughes (’01), native portrays actor-singer-dancer Eartha Kitt in a one-woman recting, said the plays’ themes play in the Cook Theatre on Friday, Sept. 11. Hughes also wrote the play, which included little-known facts about of violence, injustice, guns, rac- Kitt’s life, including her troubled childhood and her ban from the White House. Credited with 70 screen productions, ism and police brutality remain Kitt was best known for her role as Catwoman in “Batman” and the song “Santa Baby.” She died at age 81 in 2008. See Theatre on Page 3 Like all of New Orleans, Dillard University marks 10th Katrina anniversary Aid packages cited as enrollment dips slightly by 1.2% Lorian Jones Managing Editor according to Monica White, director of re- ity is that student loans in comparison have 7 cruitment, admissions and programming. increased far less than other debt such as Enrollment declined 1.2 percent this fall Financial-aid packages of state schools credit card debt, mortgages and auto loan to 1,158 students, compared with 1,200 last that can provide scholarships that cover debt. INDEX fall, and the vice president of enrollment 100 percent of tuition cannot always be Sophomores make up 20 percent of Campus news management said the slight decline was due compared to the aid packages Dillard is the population with 239 students. Juniors ...... 2,7,8 in part to misconceptions about student able to offer. Page said several of the stu- make up 15 percent with 180 students. The loans and aid packages. dents who declined enrollment indicated senior class has 279 students, about 23.5 Etoufee David Page said 373 are new students, they received better aid packages elsewhere. percent. Some 55 students (4.6 percent) are ...... 3 or 31.4 percent of the total student popula- Additionally, more students and families transfer students. Opinion tion. The average student population over did not want to accept student loans. Page Almost two-thirds (63 percent) of the ...... 4,5,6 the past two years is 1,189 students. Dillard explained that although the national stu- had set a goal of having 500 new students, dent loan debt rate is increasing, the real- See Census on Page 2 2 COURTBOUILLON 1 October 2015 DILLARD UNIVERSITY Homecoming COURTBOUILLON Volume 79, Issue 1 FROM PAGE 1 Eugene Hill, DU ambassador and Se- Convocation at 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 18. chance to open the Homecoming concert. nior Class gentleman, said Homecoming McDowell said the committee is still He said events will include Def Comedy Editor-in-chief ...... Danielle Miller will kick off with the United Negro Col- in the process of finalizing times and lo- Jam Tour/Show, Food Fest, a panel dis- lege Fund Walk for Education at 7:30 a.m. cations for events, but SAB is collaborat- cussion on Black Love Panel and a Dorm Managing editor ...... Lorian Jones Saturday, Oct. 10, in Riverview at Audubon ing with the campus-based radio station Step-Off. Park. He said the parade will be held Satur- WDUB to host a talent show, during which (Danielle Miller and Mariah Hickman con- Online editor ...... day, Oct. 17. It will end with Founders’ Day students can showcase their skills for a tributed to this report.) Photographers ...... Mariah Hickman Darren Scioneaux Diamonds’ dancing rehearsal Asha Pierce Viral video takes rapper Faculty adviser ...... Cleo Joffrion Allen, Ph.D., APR off short list for concert

BUSINESS STAFF Rapper Kevin Gates, DU students’ top pick for this year’s Advertising manager Homecoming concert, was removed from consideration after ...... Vacant a video went viral of his kicking a woman in the chest during a Florida performance. CONTACT US The decision was made by Dr. Demetrius Johnson, dean of stu- News dent affairs, who explained in an email to students that “kicking a ...... [email protected] young woman just doesn’t align with Dillard’s values.” He provided Features links to the video, along with another in which Gates was pur- ...... [email protected] ported to be seen fighting two women in Michigan. Opinion Johnson added that contract negotiations had not been com- ...... [email protected] pleted with Gates, even though the artist was promoting a DU Sports concert on his website. The dean also noted that October is Do- ...... [email protected] mestic Violence Month. Photos The runner-up choices for the feature Homecoming artist were ...... [email protected] August Alsina, Fetty Wap and K Camp. With Fetty Wap the most Advertising popular. Alsina was announced as the selection as the Courtbouillon [email protected] went to press. Gates, 29, a New Orleans native who grew up in Baton Rouge whose legal name is Kevin J. Gilyard, was performing Aug. 28 at a WRITE US club in Lakeland, Fla., when authorities said an 18-year-old woman DU Courtbouillon reported Gates kicked in her in the stomach and chest area after Dillard University she touched his leg, a scene captured on cellphone video and the 2601 Gentilly Blvd. club’s surveillance video. Lakeland police reported Sept. 2 that they New Orleans, LA 70122 were seeking to arrest Gates on a battery charge. In response, Gates addressed the situation through the song VISIT US “The Truth,” in which he said the woman groped him repeatedly Room 283 Professional Schools and he warned her to stop. Building The decision to cancel his appearance was both supported and criticized. CALL US Amber Fountaine-Pittman, marketing chair of the Student Ac- Phone: (504) 816-4107 tivities Board and a senior marketing major from Oakland, Calif., Fax: (504) 816-4089 Darren Scioneaux| Courtbouillon Cidni Merrett, a New Orleans film junior, practices a move recently in the said, “My opinion is that we have to always think about the stu- Dent dance studio. The Diamonds dance team, which performs for basket- dents first before we think about who’s hot or what’s hot. This TWEET US ball games and outside events, has eight members. The three new freshmen could have taken place here at Dillard. I love Kevin Gates, but @CourtbouillonDU members are: Haleigh Collier of Fort Worth, Texas, and Jordyn Williams there are just some things we have to stand up against as women.’ of Houston, both in biology; and J’Nisha Nixon of New Orleans, business. Terronn Firven, a 2015 graduate from Avondale, said, people Continuing members include: Lorian Jones of Dallas, mass communication should respect an artist’s space. Even so, he added, “He should ABOUT US senior; Simona Sanders of Oakland, Calif., sociology senior; and senior be able to perform here, but maybe I’m biased since I don’t like Raechelle Green and sophomore Dominique Nash. Both are from New people touching me.” The Dillard University Orleans and public health majors. (Lorian Jones contributed to this report.) Courtbouillon is produced by mass communication students. The Courtbouil- lon publishes two issues per Census semester. FROM PAGE 1 Publication dates for fall 2015 are Oct. 1 and Nov. 12. student population hails from Louisiana, three states from which out-of-state stu- The next top five majors under nursing Publication dates for spring 2016 are March 3 and April 7. with 381 of the 752 students coming from dents hail. Texas has 89 students and Illi- are biology, 159 students; public health, New Orleans. The remaining 433 students nois 74. That’s 20 percent and 17 percent 158; business administration, 100; psychol- If you have a story idea, news make up the out-of-state population, ac- of total out-of-state student population ogy, 85; and mass communication, 74 stu- tip or calendar event, contact cording to Page. respectively. dents. us at the numbers or e-mail California brings in the biggest amount Less than 1 percent of students, or Page said the Office of Recruitment, addresses provided above. of out-of-state students, with a total num- seven total students, are from out of the Admissions and Programming is working ber of 122 of the 433 out-of-state students, country. hard to attract non-traditional students and To advertise, contact our or 28 percent. Of the total 1,185, some 10 As is typical, nursing holds the most in- increase DU’s international students. adviser or staff members. percent are from California. terest, with 181 total (64 majors and 117 Plans under consideration are new op- Texas and Illinois round out the top pre-nursing majors). portunities like evening courses. 1 October 2015 Etouffee 3 COURTBOUILLON Caldwell to lead freshmen; one position left vacant Mariah Hickman Sept. 14. Parliamentarian: Maya Sias, a pre- On-campus representative: Frank A Houston business management Sydney Jack, a theater performance nursing major from Dallas, was elected Reidhar, criminal justice major from major was elected president of the major from Vacherie, was elected fresh- with 71.3 percent against Chaunteion Chicago, outpolled both Asha Pierce, 2015-16 Freshman Class in recent elec- man attendant over Logan Williams, Hall. chemistry major from Vacherie, and tions, according to official results. a pre-nursing major from Texas City, Secretary: Nalliah Henderson, a Devin Moss, a business major from Joseph Caldwell was among 10 fresh- Texas. Marketing major Dernell Green business major from Houston, outpolled New Orleans, with 50.72 percent of the men elected during the primary Sept. 10 of New Orleans was elected freshman Kahlia Columbus, also a Houston busi- votes. and runoff Sept. 14. Additionally, five gentleman over Kevin Coleman (with a ness major, with 57.78 percent of votes. Chaplain: Destiny Tucker, a politi- sophomore and junior positions that third opponent disqualified for failure to On-campus representative: Ken- cal science major from Fresno, Calif., remained vacant after spring elections remove campaign flyers in time). nedy Watson of Mobile, AL is a busi- outpolled J’Kayla Lawson, a psychology were filled. Two officers were unopposed: His- ness major. She outpolled Madison Tor- major from Shreveportwith 63.76 per- One position remains vacant, that of torian Destynee Matthews of Mobile, ry with 68.26 percent. cent. freshman off-campus representative. Ala., a pre-nursing major, and Treasurer Chaplain: Jaques Clinton, mass Off-campus representative: Terrell Marcella Benson, Student Govern- Keadria Miller of Minden, a political communication major from St. Louis Allen, a public health major from New ment Association parliamentarian, said science major. Other freshman results outpolled Kaylen Hawkins, political Orleans, was unopposed. class councils may leave a position va- include: science major from Mobile, Ala., with Both junior vacancies were filled by cant or make an appointment after in- Vice president: Jourdan Clark, a 66.46 percent. unopposed candidates. Shakyra Richard- terviews. business marketing major from Los An- son, a biology major from Baton Rouge, Caldwell outpolled Kymbrea Valrey, geles, took 56.88 percent of the votes Sophomore and junior positions is on-campus representative. And Remy a pre-nursing major from Hayward, Ca- against Kameryn Farlough, a mass com- The vacant sophomore positions Williams, a film major from Washington, lif., with 59.28 percent in the runoffs on munication major from St. Rose. filled were: D.C., is off-campus representative. Brotherhood the ‘big lie’ in hazing, speaker warns

Ja’Mesha Holmes full-ride to FAMU, where his first imag- From aspiring engineer to convicted es of success were black Greeks. He es- felon: Michael Morton shared the ex- pecially was inspired by Reginald Lewis, periences that earned him a two-year a self-made pioneer and the first black prison sentence for hazing to urge stu- man to own a billion-dollar business, Be- dents to choose their futures over tradi- atrice Foods, and a member of Kappa tion during this year’s first “Brain Food” Alpha Psi Fraternity. lecture on Thursday, Sept. 24, in Dillard In spring 2003, he pledged and then University’s Lawless Chapel. became the president of the chapter, a Speaking before a full crowd dur- role he held for two consecutive years. ing National Hazing Prevention Week, He had been hazed, and he hazed, he Morton, who now is an engineer with said, not because he was comfortable Johnson & Johnson and an anti-hazing with the idea, but he bought into the ide- advocate, outlined how he was able to ology of hazing as the means of gener- recover after he and another student at ating brotherhood. Then came the arrest Florida A&M University were arrested Mariah Hickman| Courtbouillon in 2006; hazing had been criminalized in for a hazing incident that left a student Michael Morton gestures as he speaks to a packed crowd Sept. 24 in Lawless Chapel. the state of Florida the year before. injured. Morton said he had time to reflect in He was convicted in 2006 just as he supported him in the aftermath of the he said. He said he was influenced by prison on the “big lie” of unconditional prepared to graduate; he already had incident. Rather, it was professors from “older cats” who told him, “You need support and supposedly developed by accepted his first engineering job with his major and friends he had developed to do this [handle the pledging incident]. hazing. Although he had been suspend- Pepsi when Tallahassee police came to working in student government and in The others are too wild.” ed from FAMU without a degree, he his class and arrested him. his major who testified for him as char- Even so, he said, “At the end of the studied for his GRE and took the test Morton said his hard-earned lessons acter witnesses, visited him in prison, day, I chose to do it. Nobody made me.” while he was in prison. were: recommended him for a fellowship to He said once he accepted the responsi- Once released, Morton went back -- “There is no brotherhood in bru- earn his master’s degree after his release, bility of his actions, he was able to let to FAMU and received a bachelor’s in tality,” he said to applause. He called that then an internship at NASA and his first the anger go and move on. industrial engineering. After interning philosophy “the big lie.” permanent job. Morton said he grew up in the Virgin with NASA with the help of one of his -- Relationships matter: Morton said -- If faced with the choice, choose Islands in a “paradise” but poor. He said professors, he earned his master’s degree it wasn’t the fraternity brothers who your future over the tradition of hazing, he worked hard in school and earned a in industrial engineering from Rutgers. Theatre

FROM PAGE 1 relevant today. dent; and Sidney Sims as Katy Jones, Grace’s neighbor. tributor of the Black Arts Movement and regional the- The casts are: -- “Shoes”: Edward Bradstreet as Travis; Darius ater. -- “Herbert III”: Destini Smith as Margarette, a Brown as Ronald (Smokey); Kalon Banks, Marshall; He taught at Dillard in 1960 after earning a master’s mother, and DU graduate Rodney Graham as Herbert, Rahim Glaspy, Mr. Mack; and Vincent Milkens, Mr. degree from the University of Iowa. a father. Wisely. Each production will include performances at 8 p.m. -- “Contribution”: Jasmine Hill and LaSandra A Baton Rouge native who grew up in Dallas and on Fridays and Saturdays, along with a 3 p.m. matinee Spenser as Mrs. Grace Love, the grandmother; Joshua graduated from , Shine is known as on Sundays. Austin, Eugene Love, her grandson and a college stu- a dramatist, television scriptwriter, educator and con- (Tia Banks contributed to this report.) 4 1 October 2015

Opinion&EditorialCOURTBOUILLON Let’s talk about safe sex

While sex is a topic that is often at the forefront of college con- versations, strangely, it is very rare to hear discussions promoting safe sex. So why not give students one more reason to converse about sex: by encouraging dialogue about healthy sexuality, per- haps even encouraging students to abstain from sex to ensure they are fully protected. Before you get your feathers ruffled, we are not saying having sex is a problem, but having unsafe sex and causing harm to your- self and others is. Students should be aware of the consequences of sexual activities. Data compiled by the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals showed that sexually transmitted diseases are increasing in Louisiana – not only HIV/AIDS but gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis. According to RentApplication.com, New Orleans ranked No. 8 on the Top 10 cities with the highest rate of sexually transmit- ted diseases in America. And the Centers for Disease Control re- ported that in the first half of 2015, 44 percent of all early syphilis diagnoses occurred among persons 13-24 years old. While sex is a natural part of life, contracting sexually transmitted diseases is something that can be avoided if students are properly educated and are sexually responsible. At least one campus organization is trying to start a dialogue. One project of the DU chapter of Gamma Sigma Sigma Sorority involves the promotion of safe sexual health practices. Members host annual events on campus called “Pillow Talk” to promote di- alogue and critical thinking about sexual health. During the events, Cheap travel abroad can be easy, fun students are given a platform to share real-life experiences about safe sex and are educated on ways to stay protected. The sorority Imagine traveling to Europe might think when you have a also hosts “Safe Sex” parties, when free contraceptives are pro- and seeing Rome, Paris, and map on hand at all times. vided. Madrid for under $1,000. (Not Some tips from my own ex- Brandye Warner, a member of Gamma Sigma Sigma and public including the cost of airfare.) I perience: health major from Los Angeles, said, “We are not encouraging did just that last summer, and -- Do not travel alone. It students to go out and have sex, but we know that majority of the you can, too. doesn’t matter who you are or students are engaging in sexual activities. It is our goal to ensure My sister and I were lucky where you are going. that everyone is protected and healthy.” enough to get tickets for the -- It’s wise to be frugal, but Student nurse Lyntrell Picot said Dillard University’s clinic, on flight from Texas to Madrid for a lot less fun. Spend what you the second floor of the Student Union, is in the process of or- a reasonable $900 and spent want on what you want, or you dering unisex STD testing kits. Picot encouraged students to be less than $1,000 for the time might end up regretting it. Just conscious about their health and safety and shares advice on how of our lives for two weeks of prioritize, and plan out what to stay fully protected: “Abstaining from sex is the best source for travel around Europe. (She had you want to spend before you protecting one’s self against STDs,” said Picot. traveled abroad before and was Lorian Jones get there. Dillard’s clinic currently does not have resources for HIV my guide to spending less and -- It definitely helps to know testing, but the Daughters of Charity Health Center, located on enjoying more.) you are not a fan of pizza or the language. Study a bit before campus behind the Student Union, does. Dillard nurses can refer Once the biggest purchase pasta, you might have a hard you go. You’ll be grateful to students to Daughters of Charity. Picot said the goal for Dillard’s of the airline ticket is taken care time. Gyro places were popu- know even the few words you clinic is to be able to test for all diseases and infections. of, you must consider “loung- lar, and, of course, you can find do know, and I was surprised to Dillard’s clinic is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday ing,” or as we say, a place to more Americanized restaurants find so many people who can through Friday. The nurses on staff are available to answer any stay. The cost of a hostel is near big tourist attractions. speak English. questions and offer counseling. significantly less than an -aver With French food, basically -- Most importantly, have a “We want students to know that we are open and available to age hotel, with the maximum anywhere you go it will seem good time. You will not want help them with their needs,” said Picot. amount of money spent be- fancy but delicious. I had a to come back to America full We urge you to get the proper education about good sexual ing $94 for four days. “Couch- croque madame at a small place of regrets from things you wish health to be fully aware of the risks of having unsafe sex. Sadly, surfing,” an online way to find near our hostel. It was a ham- you did or with no fun stories we still live in a world where our thoughts about sex are jaded by hosts wherever in the world you and-cheese sandwich with an to share. media messages on behavior related to sexuality. need, is completely free, and we egg on top. In Madrid, I tried If you’re interested in trav- A nurse at the Daughters of Charity Health Center said, “It is took advantage of that option everything from fried peppers eling with a group, Dillard has important for everyone to be more health-conscious.” She also on several occasions. stuffed with cheese and covered a couple of options. Melton shared tips on how students can remain safe from sexually trans- Next comes budgeting for in a thick, spicy, orange sauce to Fellows travel every year, mitted diseases: “Use contraceptives of all kinds, talk to your part- food and fun. In Rome, you pulpo (octopus). with past trips to Germany, ner and practice monogamy.” must visit the Colosseum. In Sampling foreign food was France, and China; the orga- Paris, you must visit the Eiffel an adventure, but, honestly, I nization has a spring informa- (Editor-in-Chief Danielle Miller wrote this editorial on behalf of the Tower. In Madrid, the Royal was quite ready to get back to tional. Secondly, check with Courtbouillon staff.) Palace of Madrid and shop American food. Re’Shawn N. Rayford, DU’s along the Gran Vía are musts. My favorite part of the trip study abroad program coordi- But the best part about visiting was pretending to be a local nator. Also look into the Ben- these cities is visiting the areas and being in the areas least jamin A. Gilman International Our policy where the locals live and play to populated by tourists. We trav- Scholarship to study abroad. The Courtbouillon is published by the students of Dillard University. Views truly experience the culture and eled mostly by metro or subway You can apply for a pass- expressed on the opinion pages are those of the individual writers, and the people. The best restaurants in each city. I loved knowing port at just about any U.S. are the hole-in-the-wall, mom- where I was going and effort- Post Office. Pick a place and not those of the administration, faculty or student body. The Courtbouillon and-pop places. lessly navigating through the start saving. Now is the time to reserves the right to edit all writings for space and libel. Regarding food in Italy, if city, which is not as hard as you go for it. 1 October 2015 5

Opinion&EditorialCOURTBOUILLON 18 QUESTIONS WORD ON THE AVE Editor’s note: What do you think of the decision The column “18 Questions,” collected by 8. Why is the Camphor/Hartzell Hall door and elevator to not host Kevin Gates Mariah Hickman and Markell Jackson, is still broken? for Homecoming? a popular one with many Dillard stu- 9. Why can’t Camphor/Hartzell residents control their dents, who may ask questions serious room temperature? or facetious, insightful or inane. It is 10. Why was the microwave being removed from named after the year the university was Williams Hall? founded, 1869. 11. When will the microwave policy change on campus? 1. Why did some campus residents move in and fi nd 12. Why is the commuter lounge so isolated? broken furniture? 13. Why don’t male students have more housing op- 2. What type of maintenance/upkeep happens during tions like the females? Jatori McDowell the summer? 14. Why are certain classrooms in PSB and DUICEF Senior 3. How can I protect myself on campus if I am walking unbearably cold? Business Administration alone? 15. What is being done about the pest and rodent 4. Why was Homecoming pushed up this year? problem on campus? Shreveport 5. Why is the laundry card preset with $160? 16. Why have the dumpsters not been sprayed down? Senior class president 6. How can we get diff erent food choices aside from 17. Why do we not have LGBTQ Club on campus? Sodexo? 18. Can library hours be extended on certain days of “I feel as though it was a good decision; it could have hap- 7. Why is The Grill closed on weekends? the week? pened here. He could have approached the situation bet- ter. Having the town hall meeting was benefi cial… Kevin messed up when he promoted coming to Dillard when the contract wasn’t fi nished. I support the decision.”

Nicholas Harris Sophomore Nursing New Orleans

“I don’t listen to rap. I’m indiff erent to the decision. I think the reason was valid. We can’t just invite anybody on campus. I understand, but it should be the students’ decision.”

Chawna Langworthy Sophomore Psychology Chicago

“I believe the student body, as well as the faculty and staff , are being dramatic. Kevin would be a great performer for a nice amount of money. Everybody would enjoy. But this one incident was blown out of proportion.”

Photos and interviews conducted by Mariah Hickman 6 1 October 2015

Opinion&EditorialCOURTBOUILLON Letters to the editor

Housing prep needs more attention Many students have com- Students are faced with these plained this semester about stu- problems daily and feel their dent move-in dates, unsanitary problems are not being heard. dorm rooms upon arrival and Sophomore business major an apparent lack of urgency in Kevona Naylor said she noticed getting their issues addressed. mold in her room, and it took As students, we deserve to Residential Life more than 10 begin our school year stress- days to move her to another free, however that is not always room. the case. Senior biology major We are told to follow the Micolette Jackson said called proper protocol with those is- DU “our home away from sues. Dr. Demetrius Johnson, home… [T]herefore, Dillard dean of Student Affairs, re- should hold up its end.” cently notified students that we When returning students have access to place our own arrive on campus, they are work orders when faced with pressed with a limited amount room problems. of time. Move-in day typically Interim Facilities Director Letters to the editor falls on the Saturday before the Randy Yeager said Facilities first day of classes. Students are works hard to ensure that stu- expected to move in, adjust to dents’ voices are heard. How- their new environment and be ever, he added, his office is Student says Williams Hall is beyond repair ready to start classes in less than responsible for more than just Williams Hall should be torn down and recon- through the first-floor ceiling. Three female stu- 48 hours. This is not enough dormitories, so it takes time. He structed. To most residents, living conditions are dents had to be moved temporarily while affect- time for students when they are said he understands the need unbearable. ed areas were drained and aired out. faced with dorm issues. for improvement and is open to Dillard officials have insisted the residence has As inconvenient as the flood was, most stu- Sophomore sociology major change. been renovated. From what I see, the mold in the dents were more concerned about the sprinkler Tiya Clark said she attempted As a Dillard community, we walls and ceilings seem to be simply painted over. system somehow being linked with the sewer sys- to move in early, but her request must use our voices when faced The sewage backs up often, and the roaches and tem. I asked Facilities, but I received no response. was denied. Arriving on cam- with housing issues. rodents still reside in holes in the walls. “Reno- Next I asked Dr. Demetrius Johnson, dean of pus, she was assigned a room vating” didn’t work; what’s next? students. He said a student mistakenly hung a with numerous issues such as Tevon Blair The dorm recently experienced a flood. On hanger from a sprinkler, causing the flood. dirty vents, broken drawers and Sophomore Saturday, Sept. 19, Felicia Cobbins, a Williams But when Johnson was asked about how sew- mold under her bed. Chicago Hall resident, was disturbed by a loud siren and erage got involved, he replied: “No one ever does saw something unusual in her room — a pool of stories about the good that happens here at Dil- water about an inch deep. A strong smell of feces lard. We only know what goes wrong.” also came from the hallway. Williams Hall still remains unkempt, and ques- Cleaner campus wanted by students Seconds later, without explanation, residents tions about the building remain unanswered. Stu- were evacuated from the comfort of their rooms dents affected by the flood were inconvenienced, Have you ever sat down in help keep the campus clean. and taken to the bottom of Kearny. and some wonder what the school will do about class and instantly felt your According to Randy Yeager, A residential assistant from Straight Hall who damages. For now, students in Williams know backside sticking to the chair? interim facilities director, 17 assisted in the evacuation told students the sprin- not to mess with the sprinkler system or face I have felt this – not once but, employees work fulltime em- kler system had been set off, which caused sew- more sewage. twice. Dillard students would ployees to clean each campus age to back up, resulting in a flood in the middle Victoria Anderson have more pride in their school buildings daily at different lev- hallway on the second floor. Junior and be more motivated to take els, but that’s not enough. The flood was so heavy, water began to seep Houston part in campus activities if they It’s not only up to the jani- had a cleaner and more visually tors to make sure everything stimulating environment. is right, but it’s is also our duty Fewer ‘front fliers,’ more real activities needed On a daily basis here at Dil- as students to help keep our I’m often asked back home, “So what do you that is little promoted and barely organized. lard, I see number of issues that school clean. It could be some- do for fun on campus?” Every time, I ask myself Who’s to blame? Is it Recreation, Health & could be easily fixed but never thing as simple as picking up an what does DU actually offer. Granted, a small Wellness? Peter Stevenson, head of the depart- are. I personally find it hard to empty bottle from of the floor school can accommodate only so much, but Dil- ment, disagreed, noting students used the work- have pride in attending Dillard and throwing it away. lard needs to provide more to do around campus. out room last year to the tune of 19,000 signatures when it is a common thing to Maintenance personnel can It offers track and field, basketball, cheerlead- to sign in. Stevenson said, “Our main problem is find trash on the floor, mark- only do so much, and the rest ing and women’s volleyball. It started an intramu- money. We have things broken that we need fixed ings on desks and food on key- is really on us. In effort to help, ral soccer team and small, partially organized flag as soon as possible, but we don’t have an opera- boards. we could even organize a cam- football team. Dillard recently even built a state- tion budget for the Student Union.” Maintaining the cleanli- pus cleanup day. With every- of-the-art student union center, equipped with a Some examples would be a $975 bulb for the ness of the campus is very im- body’s support, we can keep four-lane bowling alley, walking track, fitness cen- movie theater projector or a replacement $1,500 portant for the image of our our campus looking beautiful ter, ballroom multipurpose room, gameroom and tennis table. school. With the campus being and, in return, enjoy a healthier movie theater. I suggest a poll to figure out what students so small, you would assume it learning atmosphere. It is a mu- Bulletin boards in Kearny are filled with fliers want and then action. Students’ happiness should would be easy to keep it looking tual responsibility we all should for different events, such as intramural seven-on- be just as important as academics. Let students attractive all the time, but as al- take seriously. seven kickball or yoga. have another movie on the oaks, or fix the movie ways, people don’t feel like they So what’s the problem? I have seen events theater. have to contribute. Markell Jackson flop, everything from parties to study groups Leslie Kyle Harris Here at Dillard, students act Sophomore alike. I also have fallen victim to the “front flier” Sophomore as if they are not obligated to New Orleans – a term I coined for a fake event, or an event 1 October 2015 Campus 7 COURTBOUILLON Renaissance Bleu event to feature three chefs Celebrating 80 years of black arts Tia Banks 5-8 p.m. in the Student Union, will fea- Chef Linda “Yakamein Lady” Green, ture the works of students and local art- who has been featured on several Food ist, with art being offered for sale. Live Network shows, will be among chefs fea- painting, spoken-word performances and tured during The Renaissance Bleu Pop- a fashion show also are part of the expe- Up and Dining Experience from 5-10 rience. p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17, to celebrate the Palmer said the goal is to “revitalize” 80th anniversary of the DU Theatre pro- the Afro American Arts Festival held in gram. the 1960s at Dillard by creating a simi- Dr. Zella Palmer, director of the Ray lar experience she described as an “Ex- Charles Program in African American plosion of Black Art,” including visual Material Culture here at Dillard, said the arts, fine arts, culinary arts, film and mass event is designed to celebrate 80 years of communication. black arts at Dillard, to raise money for Dillard students are encouraged to the Ray Charles program and to continue participate by showcasing their talents, to serve the community in arts education. volunteering to help (for community ser- She said she expects about 100 people vice hours) and/or simply coming out to are expected for the art show and about celebrate and support the event, Palmer 150 people for the dinner. said. In addition to Green, the DU Dining For the DU Live Arts Experience Experience, set for 8-10 p.m. in the PSB only, general admission is $15, and Dil- Atrium, will feature outgoing DU Ex- lard students get in free (with student ecutive Chef Joel Williams and Dashawn ID); faculty/staff tickets are $10; and “D. Chef ” McCalpine preparing a five- general admission is $15. course dinner with dessert. To attend both the DU Dining Expe- The event is being sponsored by Loui- rience and the DU Live Arts Experience, siana Heritage Link Brands and the Ca- admission is between $80 and $125, de- jun Fire Brewing Co., and DU Renais- pending on the number of tickets pur- sance Awards will be given for Culinary chased and which package is chosen. Arts and Fine Arts. Anyone can be V.I.P. for $125, which Green has cooked for various festivals includes the DU Art Show, the DU Din- in New Orleans, especially Jazz Fest. She ner Experience, a commemorative poster was the winner on “Chopped” in a com- and two general-admission tickets to a petition with three other New Orleans DU Theatre production. chefs and won $10,000. She also was fea- Last year’s anniversary was celebrated tured on the show “No Reservations.” with Sunday dinner on Founder’s Day in The DU Live Arts Experience from Kearny.

Ten years post-Katrina, priest urges community to ‘keep our faith in action’ Danielle Miller Editor-in-Chief “As long as we keep our faith in action and keep it The devil will try to knock you down, but your “faith in action” will lift you up, according to the Rev. Anthony M. Bozeman, pastor of St. Raymond-St. Leo Catho- moving to the victory God has for us, we will continue lic Church, at the Katrina 10 ecumenical service in Lawless Memorial Chapel on Aug. 27. to restore, renew and revive.” Students, faculty and staff assembled to reflect on the past 10 years post-Hurri- -- The Rev. Anthony Bozeman cane Katrina as a community that has been made stronger through faith. The costli- est storm in U.S. history killed 1,833 people and racked up more than $108 billion Bozeman quoted Isaiah 61:7 and encouraged the audience not to get stuck in one in damages. Dillard University’s’ 55-acre campus stood in nearly 8 feet of water for spot, no matter how bad the situation looks. two weeks. “As long as we keep our faith in action and keep it moving to the victory God has Bozeman, who moved to New Orleans after Katrina, said he had seen “bombed- for us, we will continue to restore, renew and revive,” he said. out places before, but nothing like what I witnessed in New Orleans. Dr. Walter Kimbrough, president of Dillard University, and Dr. Marvalene “Dillard had over $400 million worth of damage, but look at what God has Hughes, who was president during the trials of Katrina, both attended and spoke. done,” he continued. Hughes reminisced on the time and hard work spent getting the campus back to Mr. Dillard Dakari Moton and Miss Dillard Kamara Dunn lead a candlelight normalcy. ceremony to represent the light that should continue to shine within us and on our “It is a wonderful moment for me to look at the audience and remember what we university. Candles were lit to remember all of the lives lost in Hurricane Katrina, have come through,” said Hughes. healing for Dillard and the New Orleans community, peace, and love that made this Kimbrough offered three points to keep in mind during the Hurricane Katrina institution grow into what it is today. anniversary: “Remember, give thanks and think about the future going forward.” 8 Campus 1 October 2015 COURTBOUILLON Single-parent program lauded, but may be ending Lorian Jones Managing Editor for two years starting in 2013, according to Dillard.edu. If the program cannot continue with the residential The program is designed to assist single mothers or support provided, Keys to Success will use the remain- Shantrell Green, a 2015 graduate from New Orleans fathers who qualify academically who are 18-36 with ing funds to continue activities, such as recommenda- and mother of 6-year-old son Tahj, said DU’s single- no more than two children 9 months old to 10 years tions and referrals to other organizations and oppor- parent resident program was a major resource in en- old. tunities, said Knockum-Robertson, who added she abling her to graduate. Knockum-Robertson said some of options for is working to give single-parents opportunities even Nine students have gone through the program, with which Dillard has applied includes a grant from the outside of the program like housing off-campus, child- three currently participating on-campus and one off- Baptist Community Ministry, that would not only sup- care services, parenting classes and any other resources campus student. ply funding but student housing. that might be needed. Now, however, the program, Keys for Success, is in The Key Innovation Grant would supply an amount Green said Keys to Success provided her family with danger of ending as a $700,000 grant comes to an end, that could continue to fund the program, but it would “an opportunity most single black parents don’t have.” according to Director Stacey Knockum-Robertson, not provide housing. She said, “I was able to obtain my undergraduate who added Dillard has applied for two other grants in Dillard will still receive another year of FIPSE, or degree with housing for my son and me. The best part hopes of keeping the program going. Funds for the Improvement for Post-Secondary Edu- about the program is knowing that you have all the re- The W.K. Kellogg Foundation grant was awarded cation, which offers $25,000 for two years. sources.”