Monday, February 3, 2020 I Vol. 116 Iss. 21 INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER • SERVING THE GW COMMUNITY SINCE 1904 WWW.GWHATCHET.COM

ARI GOLUB | PHOTOGRAPHER

BLACK HISTORY MONTH 2020 This year’s student-led Black Heritage Celebration kicks o with record funding CLARA DUHON, MAXWELL LAWSON & RHYMA ASIM REPORTERS GW’s 14th annual Black Heritage will be Televised” in 2017. cause a lot of non-black people who form to apply to host an event at the end Celebration is kicking off with the most “I would say as programming were wondering if they could come to of September, and student leaders con- funding in its history and a slate of chairs, we just wanted a diverse array BHC events or if they were for them, sidered the proposals in the fi rst week more than a dozen entirely student-led of programs throughout the month,” and we really wanted to stress this year of November. The events must relate to events. she said. that the entire community is welcome the theme of the month, and organizers Student leaders said this year’s to anything that is happening in Febru- give greater focus toward new organi- theme, “Reclaiming Our Renaissance: Students lead BHC with ary,” Lartey said. zations that want to be part of the cel- Our History, Our Culture, Our Lega- record funding In past years, Lartey said George ebration, she said. cy,” honors the centennial anniversary The SA dished out $29,000 to the Rice, the former associate director of Lartey and Lucas said the BHC of the Harlem Renaissance. For the BHC for this month’s celebrations, the Multicultural Student Services Cen- marketing committee, a subset of the fi rst time since BHC launched in 2006, which organizers said were put toward ter, was the administrative force behind planning group, runs an Instagram ac- the celebration is entirely organized by funding speakers, providing food at BHC, but no offi cial replaced his role in count, @GWUBHC, where they count- students and received a record $29,000 events and lowering the price of tickets the planning process when he left last ed down the days to the start of the to fund nearly 20 diff erent events, like for the fi nal event. year. Lartey said graduate student Cas- celebration and provide updates about discussions on black women’s self care “That also speaks to increased di- sandra Allen fi lled in as an adviser to events. She said the marketing commit- and a step show, student leaders said. versity within the Student Association, oversee the planning process, but all tee also posts fl yers in residence halls The celebration will begin Monday which shows that it’s becoming more of the people planning the month are and around campus to spread aware- with keynote speaker Brittany Packnett diverse and starting to refl ect what students. ness for the month. Cunningham, a social justice activist, the student body looks like and repre- “While it was daunting in the be- Lartey added that organizers gave followed by about fi ve events per week sents,” Lucas said. “They’re starting to ginning that we had to plan the month away fi ve tickets to attend the celebra- throughout the rest of the month. BHC see the importance of having this pro- without the powerhouses that we had tion fi nale later this month for the fi rst will round out Feb. 29 with a formal gramming.” in past years, everything happens for time to help promote the event. Finale event at the L2 Lounge, according to the Nia Lartey, the BHC programming a reason, and I believe we were able to tickets are currently $10 and will go up BHC agenda. co-chair and a former Hatchet reporter, give this year’s BHC some much need- to $15 on Feb. 15. Raven Lucas, the BHC program- said the BHC committee received sev- ed new love,” she said. “We have free ming co-chair, said most of the events eral event proposals from dance teams, t-shirts, extremely discounted fi nale GWHATCHET.COM change every year to match the theme. graduate student organizations and for tickets and events with organizations In previous years, BHC centered on the fi rst time, from academic depart- we haven’t had the privilege to partner to learn about what BHC leaders themes like “I’m Rooting for Everybody ments and LATAM@GW. with yet.” have planned for the month- Black” last year and “The Revolution “That was a big thing last year be- She said BHC organizers send a H long celebration Panhel faces lowest recruitment GW halts China abroad programs participation since at least 2010 amid coronavirus outbreak SHANNON MALLARD the process, but sorori- percent fewer women CIARA REGAN & an email. or canceled their abroad ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR ties can hold continu- received bids compared JARED GANS The U.S. Department programs in China, and ous open bidding and to 2010. A record-high STAFF WRITERS of State announced a University of Rochester Less than 350 stu- informal recruitment to 719 women registered travel warning Tuesday officials are conducting a dents participated in make up for the deficit. for formal sorority re- Officials have can- for all of mainland China screening of all students formal sorority recruit- “Over the remainder cruitment and nearly celed or relocated study following the outbreak. who are currently abroad ment this spring, the of the spring semester, 600 women received a abroad programs in Chi- Officials imposed travel there. lowest number in recent we look forward to con- bid in 2014. na in the aftermath of a restrictions Friday on for- Other schools in the memory. tinuing to support GW The drop comes af- coronavirus outbreak in eign nationals who visit- District – American and A total of 340 women women that are inter- ter Panhel leaders held the country. ed China in the previous Georgetown universi- participated in the first ested in joining a Pan- recruitment for the Students scheduled two weeks while quar- ties – also canceled their day of Panhellenic As- hellenic organization first time over winter to study abroad in China antining Americans who China programs in light sociation recruitment through the continuous break. Panhel initially are now slated to go to visited Wuhan, where the of the virus. and 289 accepted a bid, open bidding process or switched from fall to countries like Australia outbreak began. Study abroad experts or invitation to join a so- informal recruitment,” spring recruitment in and Serbia after officials Nosal said officials said canceling abroad rority, at the end of the Associate Dean of Stu- 2016, requiring that stu- halted China abroad pro- have messaged all GW programs, in general, is process, officials said. dents Colette Coleman dents complete at least grams amid an epidemic students studying abroad not common, but officials Greek life experts said said in an email. 12 course credits to be that has killed more than in China and elsewhere to are willing to take neces- a recent racist event in- Fifty-five percent eligible for the process. 300 people and infected encourage them to “stay sary steps when events volving a sorority mem- fewer women partici- more than 14,000 world- aware” and seek the most like disease outbreaks ber could deter students pated in formal recruit- wide. Officials said they recent information from put students in jeopardy. from participating in ment and more than 60 See BIDDING Page 4 are monitoring the situ- their programs about Sara Dumont, the ex- ation and providing stu- changing conditions ecutive director of Ameri- dents with up-to-date in- about the new virus and can University Abroad, formation while assisting their program’s status. said AU’s undergraduate them in making alterna- Nosal declined to say study abroad programs tive plans. how many students are have been canceled, and University spokesper- enrolled in study abroad the students who were son Crystal Nosal said programs in China this already in Beijing for this officials are coordinating semester. She did not spring have returned to with all students who had specify which of GW’s AU’s campus in the Dis- planned to study in Chi- programs in China have trict, where they will fin- na this spring to make al- been canceled or delayed ish their semester. ternate plans. this semester, whether Dumont said cancel- She said several stu- students enrolled in can- ing abroad programs is dents had already trav- celed programs will re- “never” common, but of- eled to China before their ceive academic credit this ficials tend only to cancel classes started, and offi- semester or where those abroad programs when cials are in contact with students will be housed circumstances that either them to monitor their de- this semester. present a serious risk to parture. The World Health Or- participants or the pro- “We are correspond- ganization declared a gram pose conditions ing with all to be sure global health emergency where it is no longer pos- they are safe and to be Thursday in light of the sible to deliver the pro- GABRIELLE RHOADS | PHOTOGRAPHER alert to any additional spreading disease. gram’s objectives. Fifty- ve percent fewer women participated in formal recruitment this year, and more than 60 percent fewer needed support we can At least four of GW’s 12 women received bids compared to the number of bids in 2010. provide,” Nosal said in peer schools have delayed See STUDENTS Page 5 February 3, 2020 • Page 2 NEWS THE GW HATCHET Planning committees release draft recommendations for next strategic plan

ZACH SCHONFELD CONTRIBUTING NEWS EDITOR NewsFebruary 3, 2020 • Page 2 The four committees guiding GW’s next strategic plan issued reports late last month detailing their initial CRIME LOG recommendations after four months of meetings and so- DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY/VAN- liciting feedback. DALISM, BURGLARY II/FORCIBLE University President Thomas LeBlanc announced Hand Chapel (MVC) four pillars in September Unknown – Unknown – world-class faculty, high- Open Case quality undergraduate edu- GWPD offi cers responded to a report of cation, distinguished and dis- damaged walls and fi xtures and multiple tinctive graduate education discharged fi re extinguishers. Offi cers who and high-impact research arrived on scene discovered that the door – with corresponding com- was forcibly opened. Two similar acts of van- mittees that will guide the dalism in Hand Chapel were reported earlier process to create GW’s next this week. fi ve-year plan. The interim Case open reports mark the midpoint of the committee planning process, which will wrap up PUBLIC DRUNKENNESS in May. HATCHET FILE PHOTO District House Each committee’s writ- Gayle Wald, the chair of the American studies department and the undergraduate education committee, said 1/26/2020 – 1:07 p.m. ten report outlines the cur- the report includes recommendations to improve STEM. Closed Case rent state of the committee’s Committee members to be more “supportive” and University to be more re- GWPD offi cers responded to a report of an purview, recommendations for offi cials and the guiding advocate for hiring “high- increase retention. SA leaders sponsive to graduate student intoxicated male student in District House. principles behind those rec- impact” professionals as dis- have previously pushed for a needs. EMeRG arrived on scene and transported the ommendations. tinguished visiting faculty fi rst-year experience course. “We have a whole slew of student to the GW Hospital. Here are some key take- or distinguished professors Gayle Wald, the commit- things that this new person Referred to the Division of Student Affairs aways from the reports: of the practice and creating a tee chair and American stud- can take on as soon as they’re University-wide hiring plan ies department chair, said the hired,” Sigelman said. “That’s ROBBERY/PICK POCKET, CREDIT CARD World-class faculty focused on diversity in the report provides “strong” rec- what we think will really al- FRAUD The world-class faculty report. ommendations about how to low some new developments committee developed two “I know this was a real elevate STEM at GW and how in graduate education and Marvin Center primary goals – “faculty sprint – everyone on the com- to leverage existing resources improvement and quality.” 1/26/2020 – 2:35 p.m. excellence and diversity” mittee worked hard together, to enhance the undergradu- Open Case and “distinguished faculty” and our work as a commit- ate experience. High-impact research A female student reported that her wallet had – along with fi ve guiding tee was greatly benefi ted “My committee is looking The research committee been stolen from her bag, and she noticed principles and six initiatives from other committees, fac- forward to receiving input identifi ed fi ve principles – fraudulent charges posted on her credit card. based on community feed- ulty and groups on campus,” from the wider community preeminence, identity, eco- Case open back and forums. Kieff said. on our fi rst draft of the stra- system, leadership and diver- “Our recommenda- tegic report,” Wald said in sity – and three aspirational SIMPLE ASSAULT (DOMESTIC VIO- tions and priorities refl ect High-quality undergrad- an email. “We know no brief goals – investing in people, one overarching aim – to uate education report can possibly speak to ideas and infrastructure – as LENCE, HARASSMENT: E- MAIL AND position GW as a center of The undergraduate com- everyone’s concerns, but we the foundation for the com- ELECTRONIC MEDIA, STALKING) ever-increasing excellence mittee’s report identifi ed will continue to listen to all of mittee’s work. Public Property on Campus (700 Block of in learning, innovation and challenges like negative per- the input we receive.” The committee recom- 22nd Street) ideas and as a magnet for ceptions about introductory mends the establishment of Distinguished graduate an academic research lead- Multiple – Multiple strategic investment for STEM courses and variation the future,” the committee in the quality of academic education ership team to oversee the Closed Case wrote in its report. advising and student support The graduate committee long-term growth of GW’s GWPD received a report from a female staff The report states that fac- across schools. A Student found that graduate students research ecosystem. LeB- member that her spouse recently assaulted ulty are “substantially less Association survey found in are “generally satisfi ed” with lanc identifi ed improving her off campus. The staff member reported likely” to report high satisfac- 2018 that advisers lack per- their experience at GW and GW’s research presence as that her spouse continues to stalk and harass tion with GW’s “intellectual sonal connections with stu- their academic programs but one of his top fi ve priorities her on campus. The spouse arrived on cam- life” and faculty research, dents, and the Columbian are less impressed with as- as University president, and pus while the woman was fi ling the report based on the results of the College of Arts and Sciences pects of the University like offi cials are currently imple- with GWPD. GWPD offi cers met with the 2019 Colonial Group Faculty recently overhauled their mental health services and menting recommendations spouse and barred her from campus. Survey. advising system to assign fi nancial assistance. provided by a faculty-led re- Subject barrred Scott Kieff , a law pro- students with individual ad- “GW lacks strategic fo- search ecosystem review last fessor and the committee’s visers. cus in fostering excellence in April. chair, said the survey was “GW can do more as an graduate education, promot- “One of our major rec- DISORDERLY CONDUCT/ originally conducted last year institution to support stu- ing cross-school synergy and ommendations is that our INTOXICATION by a group of faculty at the re- dent success for all, and it interdisciplinarity, and advo- committee should represent Science and Engineering Hall quest of the provost. can strive to eliminate silos cating for graduate students,” the fi rst step to a faculty aca- 1/27/2020 – 6:54 p.m. “It was a signifi cant to permit and encourage stu- the committee’s report states. demic research leadership team that we believe will be a Closed Case amount of eff ort that fac- dents to pursue educational The committee developed ulty had already mustered, opportunities across schools eight criteria, like a well- critical component of the suc- GWPD responded to a report of an intoxi- and because our committee and programs,” the commit- defi ned mission and student cessful implementation of the cated man unaffi liated with the University was focused on faculty, we tee wrote in its report. satisfaction, to evaluate grad- university research strategic interrupting classes in session in the Science wanted to base it on that sig- The committee recom- uate programs. Committee plan,” the report states. and Engineering Hall. The subject was issued nifi cant eff ort and hear their mended in its report that members also recommended The committee’s recom- a bar notice and EMeRG transported him to insights,” Kieff said. offi cials develop one-credit that offi cials strengthen their mendations also include the GW Hospital. The committee’s sugges- “pop-up” courses and in- reviews of doctoral and mas- establishing a GW research Subject barred tions include establishing a terdisciplinary “discovery ter’s programs by incorporat- academy to stimulate re- Center for Faculty Excellence, tracks” to help students ex- ing the criteria. search and building a cen- HARASSMENT; E-MAIL AND which will recommend ways plore diff erent fi elds as well The report also identifi es a trally located faculty research to support the “recruitment as encourage experiential op- goal of making the planning center. ELECTRONIC MEDIA and advancement of high- portunities, like internships of graduate programs more Alan Greenberg, the chair P812 20th St. (Building YY) impact faculty” across GW. and study abroad programs. “strategic” and “coordinated” of the epidemiology and bio- Multiple – Multiple The report also suggests offi - Other recommendations by appointing a vice provost statistics department and the Open Case cials create more faculty rec- include launching “interdis- for graduate studies, focusing committee’s chair, said he GWPD received a report from a female staff ognition opportunities and a ciplinary, problem-based” on providing additional in- hopes the University com- member that her spouse recently assaulted faculty mentorship program. courses and linking STEM terdisciplinary programs and munity will provide input to the committee online and in- her off campus. The staff member reported GW currently off ers three off erings to GW’s strengths, improving fi nancial account- like public policy and the ing, like ensuring a “sound person as the planning pro- that her spouse continues to stalk and harass University-wide honors for tenured faculty, one award arts, according to the report. and uniform” method of ana- cess moves forward. her on campus. The spouse arrived on cam- for full- and part-time faculty The committee also rec- lyzing revenues. “Our committee is very pus while the woman was fi ling the report and one award for graduate ommended offi cials set a Carol Sigelman, the psy- much looking forward to with GWPD. GWPD offi cers met with the teaching assistants, accord- standard for advising by chology department chair receiving feedback from the spouse and barred her from campus. ing to a University website. creating a “University-wide and the chair of the commit- GW community through the Subject barrred Offi cials also host a Faculty fi rst-year experience,” low- tee, said the proposed vice online portal and upcoming Honors Ceremony each year ering the student-to-adviser provost position would raise town halls so we can contin- at the end of the spring se- ratio in some schools and re- the “visibility” of gradu- ue to revise and improve the –Compiled by Kateryna Stepanenko mester to recognize winners arranging the freshman year ate education and convince recommendations,” he said of those awards and others. schedule for STEM students other offi ces throughout the in an email. THE GW HATCHET NEWS February 3, 2020 • Page 3 Student voter participation increased 25 percentage points from 2014 to 2018 midterm election: report MAKENA ROBERTS to register to vote, resulting in CONTRIBUTING NEWS EDITOR more than 1,100 new voters. George Mason’s urban loca- Student voter participation tion attracts several inquiries jumped about 25 percentage from political speakers, which points between midterm elec- helps rally students around po- tions in 2014 and 2018, sticking litical engagement, Karton said. GW above the national rate, ac- Faculty are also encouraged to cording to a report compiled by host “fl ash lectures” during elec- a Tufts University-based organi- tion season to educate students zation. about current campaigns, she About 11,000 students – or said. about 47 percent of the student Presidential candidates like body – cast a ballot in the 2018 Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt. and midterm elections, about eight former presidential candidates percentage points higher than Hillary Clinton and Sen. Kamala the 39 percent average across Harris, D-Calif., have visited all U.S. universities, according campus over the past couple of to the National Study of Learn- years. ing, Voting and Engagement More than 100 students reg- published last semester. Politi- istered to vote during the event cal science and higher education and members of the organiza- experts said schools that host tion provided more information pop-up voter drives and semi- to students interested in the elec- nars about voting and elections tion. – both of which GW has done in “We have student organiza- recent years – help to increase tions who do voter registration, voter turnout. plan candidates to come on cam- “The midterms were an in- pus or do debates,” Karton said. credible election in terms of col- “So Mason Votes tries to help fa- lege students for a number of HATCHET FILE PHOTO BY GABRIELLE RHOADS | PHOTOGRAPHER About 47 percent of GW's student population voted in the 2018 election, about eight percentage points higher than the national average. cilitate connecting those groups reasons, but the main takeaway with the right resources.” is that turnout doubled from the John Olds, the GW College previous midterm election,” said the greatest increase in student in the 2016 presidential election school recorded a 2018 voter rate Republicans chairman, said GW Adam Gismondi, the director of votes between 2014 and 2018, ac- increased more than 11 percent of about 52 percent, according to boasts an active political com- impact at the Institute for De- cording to the report. Students at Tufts with a voting rate of the report. munity, but a signifi cant number mocracy and Higher Education, majoring in English literature about 63 percent, according to “We want students to un- of students are not responsive to which is based out of Tufts. and language increased about 37 the school’s report. The national derstand that local and regional “in-your-face activism,” which NSLVE works with the Na- percent, and cultural and gender average for student voters in government and voting in elec- counteracts eff orts to increase tional Student Clearinghouse group studies major voter partic- 2016 clocked in at more than 50 tions is just as important, maybe student voter turnout. The group – a career and college prepara- ipation increased about 35 per- percent, according to the report. more important than the presi- intends to table in Kogan Plaza tion organization – to research cent between the two midterms, Gismondi said a student or- dential one,” Karton said. Feb. 3 with GW Votes, and rep- and compare institutions’ voter the report found. ganization called JumboVote Like Mason Votes, a nonpar- resentatives from the Republican participation rates in a database. The Class of 2021 also record- holds student forums and town tisan task force in the Nashman National Committee are invited NSLVE compiles voting informa- ed the highest voting rate for un- halls during elections to educate Center for Civic Engagement to attend the group’s general tion from major elections into a dergraduate students that year, students on political candidates and Public Service called GW body meetings to help register specialized report sent to each standing at 40 percent. and engage them in “peer-to- Votes released a plan to increase students to vote. participating college, according Gismondi, the director of im- peer support.” presidential voter participation Prior to the midterm elec- to NSLVE. pact at the Institute for Democ- Alissa Karton, the director of rates from 58 percent in 2016 to tions, College Republicans and The number of students reg- racy and Higher Education who special projects and assistant to 65 percent by 2020. The program College Democrats set off on istered to vote at GW increased was involved with compiling the the vice president at George Ma- communicates with more than canvassing trips to advocate for by more than 4,500 students be- report, said faculty involvement son University, said the school 15 student organizations, like nearby candidates in a Virginia tween the 2014 and 2018 midterm across disciplines, holding in- launched an organization called GW College Democrats and GW district. elections, and the number of stu- depth student forums about cur- Mason Votes in 2007 to educate College Republicans, to develop “Apathy is a big issue, and we dents who voted after register- rent political issues and educat- students about voting and elec- events that encourage students in the political community need ing increased by more than 6,700 ing students about voting rights tions. The school’s voter partici- to vote. to do a better job of relating to votes, the study states. history or how to cast a vote have pation rate increased by about GW Votes launched a com- students who aren’t so into poli- GW majors like communi- increased voter turnout. 25 percent between the 2014 and petition between residence halls tics because their voice matters, cations and literature recorded The number of student voters 2018 midterm elections, and the in 2018 to encourage students too,” Olds said. SA launches app to foster Chinese exchange student community

MAKENA ROBERTS Senate biweekly agendas, Chinese students. CONTRIBUTING NEWS EDITOR from English to Chinese. Flora Zhang, a volunteer They also address any ques- member of the GW WeChat Student Association tions or concerns students group, said she helps to re- senators are trying to bridge using the app submit, he cord and translate the SA the communication gap be- said. meetings into Chinese to tween Chinese students and “The app is sort of a plat- post in the chat and make administrators with a mes- form where students can the information accessible saging app. submit their concerns on the to Chinese students. Zhang SA Sen. Haining Bao, request to us and, as avail- said many Chinese students ESIA-U, launched “GW We- able, we send our specialists do not read SA updates Chat,” a platform similar to that know about American from senate meetings, so the Facebook that helps Chinese culture and suggest proce- app helps to inform them in international students read dures to them,” he said. a language they are most fa- up on events around cam- Bao said translating miliar with. pus and information about information for Chinese “I think that many stu- campus events in Chinese. students provides an easily dents when they know SOPHIA YOUNG | PHOTOGRAPHER Students who use the app Of cials will increase the number of off-campus housing exemptions to accommodate upperclassmen who can no accessible platform for stu- about WeChat, they want longer live in Mitchell, Guthridge and West halls during Thurston renovations. said they have been able to dents to check for updates to help us,” Zhang said. foster greater communica- on campus news or events “There’s no actual recruit- tion among each other and that student organizations ment process and most of stay up to date on issues like the Chinese Student As- the time students just reach Guthridge, West, Mitchell to house involving Chinese students, sociation and the Chinese out to us to ask if we need like the coronavirus, and Cultural Association hold. help with the chat.” only freshmen next academic year other GW news. He added that students Yushu Peng, who uses “I reached out to several have used the app to publish both the general and GW TAYLOR ROWE ing the number of off -cam- on groceries at Safeway reliable Chinese students a video of University Presi- WeChat platforms, said she REPORTER pus housing exemptions or Whole Foods, will help who said they would like to dent Thomas LeBlanc wish- frequently uses the app to they off er from 600 to 650 freshmen adjust to living be a part of the same proj- ing students a happy Lunar communicate with other Mitchell, West and Guth- spots next academic year to with a kitchen. ect,” Bao said. “So basically, New year and coordinated Chinese students on cam- ridge halls will house only accommodate the change, She said Fulbright Hall I needed the team to post all eff orts to gather and donate pus and receive information freshmen during the two- he said. residents have used their the detailed information.” supplies to the Chinese em- about how the SA operates. year Thurston Hall renova- Weinshel added that next kitchens to cook together The China-based com- bassy to people experiencing She said the app is helpful tions, offi cials said. year’s housing rates will with friends, and she hopes pany Tencent founded the the coronavirus. for international students Seth Weinshel, the assis- be approved in a Board of Guthridge’s in-room kitch- app in 2011 and assists other “We communicate with who face a gap in communi- tant dean of students, said Trustees meeting Friday. ens will facilitate bonding companies and organiza- Chinese students through cation between administra- Guthridge, which currently He said he hopes the all- experiences and community tions to create their own WeChat and they will do- tors and student leaders. houses upperclassmen, will freshman Vern residential for incoming freshmen. iteration of the platform, ac- nate money and materials “It helped me to know be fi lled with fi rst-year stu- community will grow with “If anything, they’ll have cording to its website. Com- to send to the Chinese em- how GW SA works and what dents this fall in addition to the aid of Residence Hall As- more space inside of their panies like Burberry and bassy for aid,” Bao said. we can do and gain from it,” mostly freshmen residence sociation programming and rooms to bring over their British Airways use WeChat Student volunteers and Peng said in an email. halls West and Mitchell. the addition of living and friends and build that com- to advertise their services to GW WeChat channel users Weinshel said offi cials chose learning communities, or munity and strengthen ties customers. said the app has helped to GWHATCHET.COM to convert Guthridge to an cohorts that house students with other buildings, be- Bao said student volun- inform Chinese students of all-freshman hall because of studying a similar topic. cause they have a place for teers help manage the GW happenings around campus for more on how its location on the 2000 block “I anticipate that com- their friends to hang out and Chinese students WeChat account by trans- and allows for more accessi- of F Street, which is located munity to become a strong cook meals together,” Diaz H have used the app lating information, like SA ble communication among near fi rst-year halls Potomac community, and our staff said. and Mitchell. will help connect students Brooke Cody, the RHA “Each building has its to the greater GW commu- council president for Mitch- own community space and nity,” Weinshel said. ell, said living in a build- the resident advisers will GW came to an agree- ing with only single rooms program that space and pro- ment last summer to house provides students with a gram for the residents to con- third- and fourth-year stu- balance between individual nect them,” Weinshel said. “I dents in the Aston and One spaces and interacting with anticipate with fi rst-year stu- Washington Circle while other students in their hall. dents because they’re want- renovations are underway. “With it being only fresh- ing to connect, we’ll end up RHA President Trinity men next year, the sense of with strong communities in Diaz said freshmen living community we have now Guthridge.” in Guthridge Hall, which is will only be heightened es- Offi cials proposed a com- equipped with individual pecially because Thurston plete gut renovation to Thur- kitchens, will have to learn won’t be there, so they’ll ston Hall in December 2018, to cook and budget for gro- probably be more activity and the Zoning Commission ceries, which most fresh- and an increase in sociability approved renovation plans men don’t currently need in Mitchell,” Cody said. for the building in December to consider. Fulbright Hall, Chris Zuniga, a sopho- 2019. Weinshel said Guth- which transitioned to house more West Hall resident, ridge, Mitchell and West halls only freshmen last year, is said freshmen will enjoy the will house only freshmen at the only freshman hall that close community found in least during the renovations, includes kitchens in each in- West and living in a reno- and offi cials will re-evaluate dividual room. vated building. whether to convert the build- Diaz said freshman “While they might not ings back to upperclassmen cooking classes and GW’s have the biggest social net- SYDNEY WALSH | PHOTOGRAPHER housing when construction Supermarket Sunday deals, work, they’ll defi nitely have SA Sen. Haining Bao, ESIA-U, said the app will allow Chinese-speaking students to catch up on news and other wraps up. which off er a $10 discount a network that is more tight- important information about campus. Offi cials are also increas- when students spend $40 knit,” Zuniga said. February 3, 2020 • Page 4 NEWS THE GW HATCHET Informal bidding can make up for low recruitment turnout: experts

From Page 1 from the recruitment process be- University, said the recent drop in Greek life recruitment by year Participated fore bid day, one day after recruit- sorority rush numbers is not consis- 800 ment began. Officials told Panhel tent with “steady interest” in Greek Kappa Alpha Theta, Pi Beta Phi and Accepted bid chapters in September that sorori- life nationwide. 700 Sigma Delta Tau will hold continu- ties would be prohibited from hold- He said multiple factors, like ous open bidding or informal re- *year of deferred recruitment ing social events or participating in the high cost of membership and 600 cruitment this spring. The Univer- informal recruitment after a racist increasing popularity of affinity sity’s spring informal recruitment Snapchat from a former sorority housing, might contribute to a de- 500 webpage does not list any chapters president surfaced. crease in Greek life interest. But that are eligible for or that will be Michelle Ardern, the executive Lake added that the racist Snapchat 400 participating in informal recruit- director of Phi Sigma Sigma, said posts could discourage potential ment. the sorority’s remaining members members from going through the 300 Dani Weatherford, the executive decided to consult with “internal process because college students Number of women director of the National Panhellenic and external” recruitment experts have become more “concerned” 200 Conference, declined to comment to agree on performance metrics for about diversity and multicultural- on GW’s sorority recruitment rates the chapter after nearly two-thirds ism in the past few years. 100 but said sororities frequently host of the chapter disaffiliated. “You had the incident, you then continuous open bidding and in- Ardern said Phi Sigma Sigma had a response by this big drop- 0 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 *2017 2018 2019 2020 formal recruitment to garner more “unfortunately” fell short of meet- off,” Lake said. “At least on its face, members. ing agreed upon metrics that would it’s a smoking gun that seems to be Academic Year “Many members of our Pan- indicate a “successful experience” why people are drifting away be- hellenic organizations find the for the chapter, prompting them to cause they’re concerned.” ALYSSA ILARIA | GRAPHICS EDITOR membership in their organizations withdraw from recruitment. CJ Graziano Smith, a fraternity authentically are,” she said in an number of members. through continuous recruitment “The situation has been incred- and sorority programs coordinator email. “Each event, open house, But she said the National Pan- or continuous open bidding, and I ibly painful for our women and our at the University of Arizona, said whatever you call it, should be what hellenic Council, the national gov- think that that’s really important international organization, but we COB – which her university holds the members already do, so you erning body for sororities, recently for people to know that this is just are resolved in taking the lessons every year – helps Greek commu- bring in new members who are like instituted a policy requiring each as authentic as any other type of re- learned from this past year and en- nities grow. Smith said sorority you.” Panhellenic chapter to accept a cruitment process,” she said. suring that we are adhering to the members can become “tired” after Ashley Christman, the assistant threshold of 95 percent of the total Eight Panhel chapter presidents highest standards and creating an continually focusing on bringing in director of student engagement for number of members from the previ- did not return multiple requests for environment for accountability and new members during informal re- fraternity and sorority life at the ous recruitment. She said the policy comment. Sigma Delta Tau Presi- reflection for all our members,” Ar- cruitment if the women do not view University of North Alabama, said change will give potential new so- dent Lizzie Irwin was not avail- dern said in an email. the process as a good opportunity her school typically “resets” the rority members more opportunities able for comment, and Chi Omega Greek life experts said student to grow the chapter. total number of members chapters to become engaged in Greek life. President Laurel Braaten declined concerns over racism in sororities She said women will want to can recruit to the median chapter “This change to the new 95 to comment. usually engage in annual COB and join a sorority if existing chapter size after formal recruitment each percent rule in the semester with- Panhellenic Association Presi- informal recruitment practices to members act “authentic” while re- year. out formal recruitment will open dent Alexa Saberito and former increase membership. cruiting new members. Christman said chapters that the door for more women to join Panhel President Sarah Sem did not Peter Lake, the director of the “COB should be a way for each fall short of the threshold recruit Panhellenic outside of formal re- return requests for comment. Center for Excellence in Higher Ed- chapter to welcome people into the through COB and informal pro- cruitment,” Christman said in an Phi Sigma Sigma withdrew ucation Law and Policy at Stetson chapter by marketing who they cesses until they meet the median email.

LeBlanc apologizes for ‘insensitive’ analogy Program focused on study amid backlash from SA, divestment group of D-Day to relocate to GW after receiving grant JARED GANS American studies, including Ka- ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR trin Schultheiss, the chair of the history department, and Steven An institute focused on com- Brady, an assistant professor of memorating D-Day will use its history, will record episodes on new space in Phillips Hall to topics like France’s role in the expand its presence on campus, war for the students. the center’s faculty said. “We’re using a really broad The inaugural space was un- cross-section of faculty from the veiled Jan. 15 to house the Albert University, and I think having H. Small Normandy Institute – a base here gives something to established in 2011 to honor the focus on,” Long said. lives of American soldiers who He said the institute’s main died in France on D-Day in 1944 area of focus at the moment is – following a donation from the the high school cohort but add- institute’s namesake, a donor ed that he is open to expanding who funded its creation. Facul- the institute’s offerings with ty said the institute’s new space more discussions in the future will allow it to expand its capa- with a new home. bilities to hold programming for Long said he and other lead- interested scholars, faculty and ers recently met with a member students. of the World War II Museum in Charles Long, the academic New Orleans who is interested director of the institute and an in holding a symposium at the assistant professor of history, institute, and he is considering said the institute’s new space inviting guest speakers to give HATCHET FILE PHOTO in Phillips Hall guarantees it lectures on related topics. LeBlanc said that about 3 percent of the University's investments are connected to the fossil fuel industry in a video that will be able to fulfill its mission “The time will probably surfaced Saturday. of educating people about one come when there are more ac- of the most significant days in tivities centered around the in- ZACH SCHONFELD black people here?” he said in lowing his testimony before CONTRIBUTING NEWS EDITOR World War II in addition to al- stitute than there are,” he said. the video. “Do I say, ‘Ah, well the House Judiciary Committee lowing more students to partici- “So far there never had been the majority voted?’ No.” as a part of the impeachment pate in the program by central- before, but it never really had a University President Thom- LeBlanc told The Hatchet in inquiry into President Donald izing its operations. home before.” as LeBlanc said he “deeply a statement Sunday that he did Trump. “I think that having a physi- Long’s office is located in the apologizes” for comments he not intend to offend anyone by LeBlanc also disclosed the cal location here will guarantee center itself, and his associates’ made in a video that surfaced using the analogy. scope of GW’s fossil fuel invest- that it will continue in perpetu- offices are located just outside Saturday that shows him com- “Yesterday, in a conversation ments in the video for the first ity, which is I know what Mr. the institute on the same floor paring support for fossil fuel with a student, I attempted to time. Small wanted,” he said. of Phillips, according to the his- divestment to shooting “all the emphasize a point and used an He revealed that about 3 per- The institute’s leaders send tory department’s website. black people here.” insensitive example that I real- cent of the University’s invest- 15 teams of high schoolers and Denver Brunsman, a deputy In the video, which was ize could be hurtful to members ments are connected to fossil their teachers annually to Nor- academic director for the insti- posted to the Facebook page of our community,” LeBlanc fuel companies through funds mandy – the landing site where tute and an associate professor “Overheard at GW,” an indi- said in an email. “I deeply apol- GW invests in. The University’s Allied troops invaded Nazi-oc- of history, said having a physi- vidual who identified herself ogize for using that example.” portfolio does not include any cupied Europe during the war cal space on campus is not “ab- as a freshman asked LeBlanc He added that he intended individual stocks issued by – to view key sites from that solutely necessary” for all cen- about GW’s investments in fos- to caution the student against fossil fuel companies, LeBlanc time period and give graveside ters and institutes at GW, but sil fuel companies and dona- using majority rule as justifica- said. eulogies to a specific fallen sol- it helps organize the institute’s tions from the fossil fuel indus- tion for violating academic free- “We’re 97 percent carbon- dier buried there, according to administrative unit. try, which prompted LeBlanc dom. free now, and we’re getting their website. Those involved “I think that everyone’s very to use an analogy that students “The point I was making – no credit for it,” he said in the participate in online discussions excited to have an institute here condemned on social media. that majority rule should never video. “Everybody’s hammer- and research their own soldier in the space because I think it LeBlanc’s apology comes after suppress the human rights of ing us as if all we own is coal over the course of the program, shows an investment in GW,” the Student Association’s Black others – was obscured by the – we’re 97 percent carbon-free which lasts several months, the Brunsman said. “It will be lo- Senators’ Caucus published a example I used,” LeBlanc said. now.” website states. cated here.” statement characterizing his “I regret my choice of words He added that officials are Long said three student par- Eric Arnesen, a deputy aca- comments as “racially insensi- and any harm I unintention- working with GW’s investment ticipants from the program in demic director and a professor tive” and “thoughtless.” ally inflicted on a community I advisers to eliminate all remain- years past have attended GW of modern American labor his- “The Black Senators’ Caucus value greatly.” ing investments in fossil fuel for college. He said the space tory, said the location will be a recognizes the manner in which SA President SJ Matthews companies and working with on the third floor of Phillips central space for the institute’s this incident occurred as both and Executive Vice President the Board of Trustees to devel- – which students will engage leaders to field any questions a pattern of racially insensitive Amy Martin, who extended op a “statement of principle” with when they visit the District anyone has related to the insti- behavior on this campus as well their office hours Sunday after- by the end of the year that will prior to traveling to France in tute’s mission or its work. as proof of the degree to which noon in the wake of the video, explain GW’s vision for divest- June – may entice more students He said students in Long’s accountability and reasonable declined to comment, deferring ment in the next five to 10 years. participating in the program to class at GW on the Normandy sensitivity are absent from this to the statement issued by the The video has received al- join GW. invasion can volunteer with the University – even at the highest black senators’ caucus. most 130 comments as of Sun- He said students and their center to serve as mentors for and most visible level,” the cau- Archer Gallivan, a sopho- day afternoon, ranging from teachers go to the National Ar- the high school-level program cus’ statement reads. more who posted the video to those defending the ideas he chives in College Park, Mary- and help high school students The student in the video, the Facebook group, told The put forward, comments criti- land, to research the soldier conduct research. who Sunrise GW identified as Hatchet the woman in the video cizing his choice of words and whose life they have chosen to “I think it anchors the whole a member of their organiza- declined to comment about the some messages calling on LeB- examine. concept,” Arnesen said. “I think tion, asked LeBlanc whether he video. lanc to resign. “I think that’s the biggest ad- it’s good to have this. Involving would shut down GW’s Regula- The student in the video Sunrise GW, a student-led vantage of having the institute GW students is one of the pur- tory Studies Center – a research raised concerns to LeBlanc environmental activism group here and based at GW,” he said. poses of the institute. Our stu- hub that receives funding from about the RSC’s donors, to that rebranded in November, “I know Mr. Small wants it to be dents are wonderful – they are donors like ExxonMobil and which LeBlanc responded that published a statement Sunday a rigorous academic program a resource.” has been criticized for a right- he is not “crazy” about gifts condemning LeBlanc’s com- and he wants it to be run by GW Arnesen said members of wing bent – if a majority of stu- from donors affiliated with the ments in the video. The group professors.” the institute have begun talking dents agreed. LeBlanc rejected published a letter urging offi- fossil fuel industry but added He said leaders of the insti- with potential partners about the idea that a majority vote cials to cut ties with the center that he cannot shut the “legiti- tute use podcasts as a way to featuring more academic pro- mattered, adding that the deci- and divest from fossil fuel com- mately constituted” academic spread information to partici- gramming based on World War sion to keep the center is an is- panies in late December, which center down without violating pants in the program. He said II and “D-Day-specific experi- sue of academic freedom. the SA Senate backed last week principles of academic freedom. he has recorded three episodes ences.” LeBlanc said majority rule in a resolution. “Here at GW, you get to and will soon record a podcast “One of the nice things about should not guide every deci- “Sunrise GW condemns in make your case and people get on the Battle of the Atlantic, a having a physical home and sion, likening a majority in sup- the strongest terms President to listen to it, and agree with it, monthslong campaign during having a clear identity is that port of shuttering the RSC to a LeBlanc’s racially insensitive or disagree with it and make an- World War II over control of now affords us an opportunity hypothetical majority in favor comparison of students support- other case,” he said. Atlantic sea routes, for the cur- to think more creatively about of causing harm to African- ing fossil fuel divestment and LeBlanc said in the video that rent participants in this year’s what more can we be doing, Americans on campus. basic academic integrity to the he similarly did not respond to cohort. what direction should we go “What if the majority of the idea of student support for racial those asking him to fire law He added that professors in and what avenues might we ex- students agreed to shoot all the violence,” the statement reads. professor Jonathan Turley fol- departments like history and plore,” he said. THE GW HATCHET NEWS February 3, 2020 • Page 5 Study abroad students say GW's decision 'absolutely necessary'

From Page 1 worsen, students could have experiences, so they must Students participating outbreak began was quaran- the global bachelor’s re- been at greater risk at a time have plans in advance. in GW’s study abroad pro- tined, that her trip to Fudan quirement. when it would not be pos- “Universities have devel- grams have been off ered the University in Shanghai may Niels Graham, a junior Offi cials indefi nitely sus- sible for them to depart due oped a range of protocols to opportunity to study abroad not take place. majoring in economics and pended study abroad pro- to fl ight cancellations,” Du- make sure that contact in- in several countries in place She said the email chain international aff airs, said he grams in Hong Kong last mont said. formation is updated, noti- of China, including Italy, from the University made was already in Beijing for a semester following protests Jay Dee, a professor of fi cations from the U.S. State Jordan, Senegal and Taiwan, it appear that the trip may month-long program and that led to violence between higher education at the Department are conveyed to according to emails sent to happen, but over the course was planning on participat- police offi cers and protest- University of Massachu- faculty and staff so there’s students in China abroad of six days, it seemed less ing in the spring semester ers. Donna Scarboro, the setts Boston, said institu- a clear web of communica- programs. likely. She said her pro- Beijing abroad program associate provost for inter- tions have a “duty of care” tion,” Dee said. Pilar Reyes – a sopho- gram coordinators sent her starting Feb. 12. national programs, said in to protect their students, an email Wednesday that Graham said he origi- December that programs in and higher education of- “In this case the Centers for Disease the program was formally nally received an email from Chile were suspended fol- fi cials will do everything canceled, and offi cials were program offi cials that the lowing violent protests. they are able to do to ensure Control and State Department risk looking for alternative loca- course would be delayed but “In this case the Cen- students are being sent to a assessments for China were a tions to send her cohort. received a follow-up email ters for Disease Control and safe location. determining factor in the programs’ “I think GW was just try- shortly after to state that it State Department risk as- “It’s important for insti- cancellations” ing to make sure that they was canceled. He said he sessments for China were tutions to make very clear were making the best deci- registered for classes at GW a determining factor in the and quick decisions to put SARAH DUMONT sion for the students,” Reyes this semester, and he ex- programs’ cancellations,” the safety of their students EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, AMERICAN UNIVERSITY ABROAD said. pects to be able to adjust to Dumont said in an email. fi rst,” he said. Reyes said those in her his classes after he catches Dumont said AU offi cials Dee said offi cials that program were looking for- up on the work he missed. were informed that the level want their students to have ward to going to China for He added that canceling of risk of catching the virus “global experiences” must Students participating in more in the Global Bachelor’s nine months, adding that the abroad programs on the in Beijing was relatively low, grapple with securing stu- China abroad programs said Program, a multi-semester she began learning Man- Chinese mainland was “ab- but the measures taken in dents’ safety. He said admin- they are disappointed that abroad experience that in- darin in the lead-up to her solutely necessary.” China to contain the virus istrators remain responsible they cannot travel to China volves travel to at least two visit. Reyes said she learned “I think it was the right were not enough for the pro- for safety even in situations but understand that offi cials other countries – said she Thursday her cohort would move, just with how rapid gram to function eff ectively. where they do not have di- needed to make a decision to fi rst received notice Jan. 23, be traveling to New Zealand the spread of the virus was,” “Should the situation rect control of the students’ protect them. the day the city where the for the semester to complete Graham said. Outgoing Documentary Center head a role model to students: faculty emerging foreign fi lm- mentary center has yet to powerful, and you can makers to allow students name a new leader, adding stand back and just be in- to collaborate with aspir- that she does not want to tensely proud of having ing documentarians from influence the decision created that experience countries like Bangladesh and wants to let the new for your audience,” Sesno and Kyrgyzstan. The pro- director lead the program said. gram, supported by two according to their own vi- Sesno added that U.S. Department of State sion. But she added that quantifying the impor- grants in 2008 and 2010, al- she intends to answer any tance of documentary lowed about 450 students questions that offi cials in- filmmaking can some- who participated in the volved with selecting the times be difficult but program to act as “ambas- new director have about Seavey’s teaching has sadors” to “open the hearts the center to ensure the given rise to the next and minds” of worldwide transition process is as generation of documen- audiences. “smooth” as possible. tarians. “Twenty fi lmmakers got “Now it’s up to some- “Measuring impact in together over a six-week body else to really put long-form storytelling and period, lived here on cam- their paw print in it and documentary is always a pus and made fi lms togeth- say, ‘This is mine,’” Seavey challenge, but in this case, er, went back to their home said. “Because, right now, it’s pretty simple – educat- countries and changed the it’s so much a refl ection of ing successive generations world,” Seavey said. my strengths, and I avoid of aspiring fi lmmakers, Seavey said she will stay the things that are my and that’s something to on as executive producer weaknesses. I can’t say be very proud of,” Sesno for GW’s bicentennial fi lm, how it should look, except said. “The students who COURTESY OF NINA SEAVEY which will showcase Uni- that I hope it takes the have experienced the in- Emmy-award winning documentarian Nina Seavey will step down from her position at the School of Media versity accomplishments form of somebody else’s stitute have been able to, and Public Affairs to pursue an investigative podcast project. over the past 200 years. GW good strengths.” at the end of that experi- RACHEL ANNEX & world. really great mentorship. will observe its bicentenni- SMPA faculty said ence, know that they’ve SHANNON MALLARD Now, after nearly And I think that what al anniversary with a year- Seavey has been an “ex- created something unique REPORTERS three decades leading the we’ve done is to mentor long celebration kicking off cellent” role model for and special.” School of Media and Pub- fi lmmakers in a way that in February 2021. students interested in be- David Karpf, SMPA’s After stumbling upon lic Affairs’ Documentary is really part of a lifelong She said she wants to coming documentarians, associate director, said Ken Burns’ award-win- Center, Seavey will step journey.” use the documentaries as a and the next director of Seavey is a “force of na- ning Civil War documen- down from her position Seavey said that while way to highlight academic the center has “big shoes ture” who had a “real im- tary series as a gradu- June 30 to pursue an in- at the center’s helm, she departments and bring to fill.” pact” on both the media ate student in 1989, Nina vestigative podcast proj- created a six-month “inten- the University community Outgoing SMPA Di- and public affairs school Seavey said she realized ect about U.S. government sive” certifi cate program to together. Academic heads rector Frank Sesno said and the larger field of the “amazing” storytell- surveillance of citizens teach students documen- from departments like bio- Seavey brought a “rigor- documentary. ing power of the medium involved in anti-Vietnam tary production and sto- statistics approached her ous” type of documen- Karpf said Seavey ef- and wanted to pursue it War protests. Seavey said rytelling techniques. She asking her to “tell stories tary fi lmmaking to the fectively challenged her herself. her proudest accomplish- said she designed the pro- about what we do,” she institute and taught stu- students and imparted Since then, she’s cre- ment during her decades- gram to carve out a niche said. dents how to “go the extra her years of knowledge ated documentaries on long tenure heading the for SMPA among peer in- “We can help you with mile” when shooting fi lm and experience to the topics ranging from bull- center is the opportu- stitutions like the Univer- that because everybody in a and interviewing hard-to- next generation of docu- fighters to the history of nity she had to teach her sity of Southern California university has a story about reach sources. mentarians. the poliovirus, won an students how to become and New York University, their work, about their re- “When it’s all said and “She’s been a role Emmy award, earned two skilled documentarians. which off er only a master’s search, about how they’re done, you can point to model in how to build additional nominations “You don’t need to of fi ne arts degree in fi lm- changing their fi eld, what where somebody comes an intensive educational and collaborated with go to fi lm school to be a making. are they contributing to to life in your film, where experience that demands students and filmmak- documentarian,” Seavey Seavey said she also their cannon,” Seavey said. an issue or an experience and produces excel- ers from all around the said. “What you need is created fellowships for Seavey said the docu- becomes poignant and lence,” Karpf said. Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies program pilots capstone seminar MAX SKIDELSKY how to reinvent the cur- She said she has met REPORTER riculum. with a few students in the “We did a survey of the capstone seminar, asking The Women’s, Gen- graduate students, and we for reactions, and heard der and Sexuality Stud- learned about what was positive feedback about ies program is piloting a working for them, what the changed curriculum. new capstone seminar for they saw as the strength “They’ve all had re- graduate students’ senior of their experience here at ally positive things to say theses discussions this se- GW,” Daiya said. “Then we about it,” she said. “They mester. asked them to share what are enjoying the fact that The seminar allows they found challenging.” it is providing a writing graduate students to joint- She said students typi- community.” ly develop their theses cally write their theses Strader, the professor through dialogue and peer and receive feedback from overseeing the course, review with other gradu- a single professor, which said she pitched the idea ate students working on limits their opportunity last year with some fac- their fi nal projects, faculty for feedback and discus- ulty members on a cur- said. Kavita Daiya, the di- sion, but she wanted stu- riculum review commit- rector of the program, said dents to be able to collabo- tee looking to improve the the seminar takes graduate rate so they could reap the capstone program. students out of the isola- benefi ts of other perspec- She said she deter- tion that students usually tives on their work. mined that the graduate face in writing their theses “Instead of being iso- students needed a more and fosters a greater sense lated in your last semes- creative experience by of community among the ter like that, we thought brainstorming with oth- students. it would be really great to ers to further their intel- Daiya said she came bring everyone together lectual goals. By talking to SOPHIA YOUNG | PHOTOGRAPHER up with the idea for the who was working on these their peers regularly, they Kavita Daiya, the director of the WGSS department, said the seminar will alleviate feelings of isolation while students course with Cynthia De- theses into a seminar,” she can receive suggestions are writing their theses. itch and Eiko Strader, said. about reading and re- two other professors in Faculty said nine stu- search that would benefi t they have taken so far, in the course, said the meaning to and under- the program. She said the dents are currently en- their theses, Strader said. including feminist theory seminar has encouraged standing of my research three of them began talk- rolled in the course, and “The goal is learning and research issues. a more rigid timeline for goals,” she said. ing last year about how 14 are expected to enroll how to do research on “They need to bring completing her work by Sarah-Anne Gresham, to improve the program’s next year. There is no limit your own and also how all those things together requiring certain dead- another student in the graduate student experi- on the number of gradu- to be in conversation with and develop their own lines be met so she can course, said the seminar ence to combat seclusion. ate students who can enter your peers,” she said. research paper,” Strader collaborate with peers. complemented her writ- “They’re largely work- the program, professors Strader said she agreed said. She said the feedback ing strategy during the ing on their own in the li- said. to design and teach the Strader said that based from her peers has been “most stressful semester brary all by themselves or Daiya said faculty seminar because she on the feedback already a “great resource” that of a master’s program” by in the attic and doing this plan to pilot the capstone wanted to develop a more obtained from graduate has helped ensure her re- including other perspec- research in isolation,” she this year by introduc- systematic approach for students and other profes- search “is credible and of tives in her writing. said. ing tentative changes for graduate students to com- sors who the students in high quality.” “It is providing the Daiya said faculty gar- this semester only, and if plete capstone assign- the seminar consult with, “The capstone seminar structure needed to com- nered student feedback students enjoy the experi- ments than working inde- the program will likely has provided me with an plete my research on time, last spring informally ence and Strader reports pendently. She said these be formally incorporated insightful and forward- and it is also helping me through word of mouth it met its goal to improve individual research proj- into the curriculum be- looking approach to not to become more disci- and formally through a students’ writing, faculty ects are supposed to re- ginning next year. only constructing my re- plined and strategic in my survey, which led to fac- will off er the program ev- fl ect everything they have Joseanne Lopez, a sec- search paper but also in approach to writing,” she ulty discussions about ery year. learned in all the classes ond-year graduate student developing an in-depth said. WHAT THE UNIVERSITY WON'T TALK ABOUT THIS WEEK How many students were enrolled in study abroad programs in China. p. 1

FROM GWHATCHET.COM/OPINIONS “Officials can stop grade inflation by simply changing the way professors are evaluated and being transparent about grade distributions.” OpinionsFebruary 3, 2020 • Page 6 — EDITORIAL BOARD ON 1/27/20 Jack Evans does not deserve another chance to represent Ward 2 STAFF EDITORIAL

Former D.C. Councilmember fully removed from office amid Jack Evans is putting his personal several ethical violations. Evans’ interests above Ward 2 voters – decision to run is merely a slap in again. the face to everyone who stands Evans resigned from his seat against him. shortly before a vote was set to re- Four members have already move him from the D.C. Council made the commitment to reopen late last month. In response to his removal proceedings against Evans departure, councilmembers orga- if he is reelected, and all current nized a special election to vote in his members of the Council released a replacement, all while candidates statement condemning his run. The are already vying for his Ward 2 Council should not let Evans get seat in June’s general election. Ward away with putting himself above 2 residents’ reprieve from Evans voters, and they should make clear has been short-lived because he of- that they will continue the removal ficially filed to run in both elections process should Evans win again. last week. Voters should not be expected While the District serves as the to dignify his selfish tantrum by backdrop for President Donald considering him as a viable candi- Trump’s impeachment trial, Evans’ date. Evans is making a mockery of misconduct hits closer to home. He all that the Council stands for, and has become the center of several he is assuming that the voters are ethics investigations while serving either too unintelligent or apathetic as a councilmember and has come to vote against him. By running for under fire for placing his personal reelection, Evans is embarrassing business interests above those of his himself and the voters of Ward 2. If constituents. His actions may not he were to win, it would show that have gotten him arrested, but they anyone of power can get away with are textbook examples of unethical unethical behavior and misuse of behavior. office. Evans’ decision to run is selfish Evans’ decision to run in his and does not benefit voters or the own special election to replace Council. He should drop out of the him is just as selfish as his corrupt race. actions while he sat on the Coun- Ward 2 voters need time to get cil. Much like his corruption, his familiar with other candidates, decision to run serves no benefit especially because Evans has to Ward 2, harms D.C. voters by been the Ward 2 incumbent for putting them through unneces- nearly 30 years. Voters should not sary elections and stress, makes waste their time on understand- Cartoon by Jeanne Franchesca Dela Cruz D.C. look like it does not have a ing a candidate who may have valid model of governance and extensive Council experience but His candidacy is not only a for the monetary and time costs demonstrating that he has not lis- makes a joke out of the ethics rules clearly does not deserve the seat. distraction, but it is a financial of the special election when he is tened to the thousands of people of the Council. Evans has shown Evans is only a distraction to the burden for taxpayers. Evans’ ini- making an undignified spectacle who signed petitions calling for a lack of concern for Ward 2 and seven other candidates advocat- tial resignation is the reason the of his departure from office. his resignation, nor the council- the legitimacy of the Council. He ing for ways to address issues like ward needed to assemble a spe- Evans is doing a disservice to members who already planned should pack up his stuff, admit his homelessness, transportation and cial election, which costs money. voters, the Council and himself in to vote him out. Voters should not wrongs and move on from Ward the cost of rent in Ward 2. Voters should not be on the hook running for another term. He is forget that he was almost force- 2. Why we’re reclaiming our Officials must prioritize quality of renaissance CCAS advising over quantity hen September hope to cultivate a sense abilities well beyond the dvising at the Columbian Col- anyways instead of providing the advice I 2019 came, the of community and restore Foggy Bottom limits. lege of Arts and Sciences has been needed. Black Heritage misappropriated spaces. Our exploration of our subject to extensive criticism for My poor experiences with advising are WCelebration committee BHC is a time to shine a roots and cultural differ- Aseveral years. And while the office has made connected with a couple of issues. Officials’ was tasked with encap- positive light on the black ences will help provide strides to improve its services, it continues to most recent advising update assigned stu- sulating the black experi- community, contradict- clarity and reconcilia- fall short. dents with an adviser by last name to ensure ence at GW for the upcom- ing the negativity that is tion within ourselves. they had one person to see on every visit. ing year. The committee ingrained in our academic It is important for GW Kyle Anderson While the change gives students individual- recognized the centennial institutions. black students to “reclaim” Writer ized attention, they still cannot meet with ad- anniversary of the Harlem As we enter a new de- this month to highlight to visers who have specific knowledge of their Renaissance and wanted cade, year and election their peers, professors and major or have the ability to assist CCAS stu- this year’s t heme administrators that Students have long complained about dents with an undeclared major. Instead of to incorporate this their identity is im- long waits, poor advice and a lack of avail- assigning students an adviser by last name, meaningful mile- “This month is an perative to their edu- ability as far back as at least 1998, when it was students should have the ability to access stone. opportunity for black cational experience. criticized as the “advising blues.” advisers who have an understanding of the The period of The burden does not Officials have listened to those concerns requirements for each major. These changes the Harlem Renais- students, and the GW solely lie on the black by assigning students to a specific adviser would allow individual advisers to better an- sance was a time community at large, community, but and increasing the number of advisers avail- swer student questions and give undecided for the reformation to reclaim things that rather, it is necessary able to each POD, but the root of the issue is students an outlet to seek guidance if they of black culture and have been lost or for all to step up, and in the quality of advising, not the quantity. are weighing their options. identity in America. even step back in or- It makes sense to blame advising problems The argument that CCAS advising is un- As black people stolen from their der to make room for on quantity – CCAS has too many majors for derstaffed is fair, especially when people are were no longer identity.” the revival. only 11 advisers. But quantity is only part of rushing to ensure their classes are set at the slaves, they had the And to the GW the issue. CCAS students need advisers who beginning of the semester, but it has its flaws. ability to create their black community: are keenly aware of their academic interests Numbers are not the main issue. Advisers own space in society. In an age where and can point them in the right direction need to have the ability to provide accurate Harlem became the the commodifica- early on in their college career. The Univer- and succinct advice to students across a wide Mecca of all things poli- cycle, this anniversary tion of the black experi- sity should train and hire specialized major- variety of backgrounds. tics, art and film for black is more important than ence is pervasive, let this specific advisers so students can get the aca- Either they do not have the time to give Americans that eventually ever for black Ameri- be a reminder to never demic help they need. you better advice or they do not know what spread across the country. cans across the country repress your blackness. I have personally sought academic advice better advice to give you. Clearly, if it were This month is an oppor- to redefine their culture. –Bishop Walton and on two occasions to ask about the feasibil- simply the lack of time, my experience tunity for black students, Through various outlets, Guinevere Thomas are co- ity of my political science and criminal jus- would have been different. Narrowing the and the GW community we have the opportu- chairs of the Black Heri- tice double major, but I was sent back with scope of an adviser would allow them to give at large, to reclaim things nity to personally and tage Celebration. Almaz the instruction to go build a four-year plan, higher quality advice, curing the CCAS “ad- that have been lost or sto- professionally develop Abedje is the president of something I was not taught how to properly vising blues.” len from their identity. skills that will give us GW’s National Associa- do. They had no reason to rush me out the –Kyle Anderson, a freshman majoring in Through these events, we the chance to utilize our tion of Black Journalists. door after only a couple minutes but did so political science, is an opinions writer. LeBlanc’s insensitive analogy showed poor judgment n a video posted to Saturday Sunday, but his apology cannot crete position on the Colonial some rationale behind his de- with students by using an in- night, University President undo the damage of his words. nickname to admonishing stu- cisions like he did in the video. flammatory analogy does not Thomas LeBlanc made an His comments show an in- dents who were disappointed But his analogy is unfair be- make students more comfort- Iinsensitive analogy compar- ability to understand and em- by Marcia McNutt being chosen cause it equates climate activ- able, and apologizing later does ing students asking for fossil pathize with minority students as the Commencement speaker. ism with an inexplicably ra- not solve the problem. The is- fuel divestment to a hypotheti- on campus who might already While LeBlanc faced pressure cially charged crime. sue is not just about what LeB- cal situation in which students face challenges on a major- from students in both events, The comparison might have lanc said but the judgment he want to shoot African Ameri- ity white campus. While he ex- he did not use offensive state- been intended to be an extreme showed in using insensitive can students. plained his analogy in further ments to support his argument. example, but it came off as a language. detail the next day, the fact that The basis for his argument poor attempt to condescend LeBlanc never should have Kiran Hoeffner-Shah he was comfortable making the is not entirely unfair – the students. Using an analogy as made the analogy, and students Opinions Editor analogy speaks volumes about majority opinion of students extreme as LeBlanc’s does not are right to be upset. his leadership. should not drive University- further his argument, it shows –Kiran Hoeffner-Shah, a LeBlanc has continuously wide decisions. LeBlanc can- his ignorance toward black stu- junior majoring in political LeBlanc apologized for the rebutted the will of the student not bend to the wishes of all dents. science and psychology, is the comments made in the video on body, from failing to take a con- students, but he can provide Trying to win an argument opinions editor.

The GW Sarah Roach, editor in chief Submissions — Deadlines for submissions are Friday 5 p.m. for Monday issues. They must include the author’s Leah Potter, managing director* Belle Long, contributing sports editor Alec Rich, research assistant name, title, year in school and phone number. The GW Hatchet Parth Kotak, senior news editor Arielle Bader, senior photo editor Amy Liu, research assistant Hatchet does not guarantee publication and reserves the Dani Grace, senior news editor Alexander Welling, assistant photo editor Ciara Regan, research assistant right to edit all submissions for space, grammar and clarity. 609 21st St. NW Jared Gans, assistant news editor Jack Fonseca, assistant photo editor Katherine Abughazaleh, research assistant Submit to [email protected] Washington, D.C. 20052 Lia DeGroot, assistant news editor Sarah Urtz, assistant photo editor Meredith Roaten, digital manager Shannon Mallard, assistant news editor Lillian Bautista, contributing photo editor Jack Liu, web developer Policy Statement — The GW Hatchet is produced by gwhatchet.com | @gwhatchet Makena Roberts, contributing news editor Olivia Columbus, design editor* Aaron Kovacs, contributing web developer Hatchet Publications Inc., an independent, non-profit corporation. All comments should be addressed to the [email protected] Zach Schonfeld, contributing news editor Tiffany Garcia, contributing design editor * denotes member of editorial board Ilena Peng, blog editor Alyssa Ilaria, graphics editor Board of Directors, which has sole authority for the [email protected] Kiran Hoeffner-Shah, opinions editor* Danny Schapiro, video editor Business Office content of this publication. Opinions expressed in signed [email protected] Hannah Thacker, contributing opinions editor* Heidi Estrada, assistant video editor Andrew Shlosh, business manager columns are those of the authors and do not necessarily [email protected] Sidney Lee, culture editor* Dante Schulz, contributing video editor Tyler Loveless, accounting manager reflect the view of The GW Hatchet. All content of The [email protected] Molly Kaiser, contributing culture editor Natalie Prieb, copy editor* GW Hatchet is copyrighted and may not be reproduced [email protected] Emily Maise, sports editor* Ed Prestera, assistant copy editor without written authorization from the editor in chief. THE GW HATCHET CULTURE February 3, 2020 • Page 7

THE COLD WAR KIDS TOVE LO AND ALMA RHETT MILLER SCENE 9:30 Club The Fillmore Silver Black Cat Feb. 6 • $35 Spring Feb. 9 • $25 This band, known for Feb. 7 • $35 Alternative country singer hits like “Hang Me Up To Swedish singer Tove Lo Rhett Miller will bring Dry,” will perform in D.C. will join pop singer ALMA. mellow vibes Sunday. RELEASED CultureFebruary 3, 2020 • Page 7 THIS WEEK: ‘HIGH ROAD,’ AN ALBUM BY KESHA Museums and historic sites that trace African American history C.C.montthe District SARAH SACHS showcasing everything for justice, peace and righ- REPORTER from music and sports teousness” and “darkness to slavery and how black cannot drive out darkness, Black History Month is Americans were involved only light can do that. Hate a time to recognize the in World War I. Another cannot drive out hate, only achievements and contri- exhibit guides visitors love can do that.” butions of African Ameri- through the eff orts that Martin Luther King Jr. Me- cans, and there’s no better U.S. presidents, members morial, 1964 Independence Ave. way to do it than at muse- of Congress and activists SW, open 24 hours, free. ums and other historical made to open the museum exhibits around D.C. and commemorate African African American Throughout February, American contributions. Civil War Museum pay a visit to sites like the If you’re looking to spend The African American Martin Luther King Jr. me- hours exploring black his- morial and museums like Civil War Museum sheds tory over hundreds of light on how African Ameri- the National Museum of years, the National Mu- African American History can soldiers helped fi ght seum of African American during the Civil War. The and Culture. Here’s a run- History and Culture is a down of places around the museum, which opened in must-see. 1999, tells visitors the stories District that highlight the The National Museum of strides African Americans of black soldiers during that African American History time through archival pho- have made throughout and Culture, 1400 Constitu- history. tos, documents and seminars tion Ave. NW, open every by museum staff . day from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., One of the museum’s The National reserve free passes. Museum of main exhibits, called “From SKYLAR EPSTEIN | PHOTOGRAPHER Slavery to the White House: The National Museum of African American History and Culture houses nearly 36,000 artifacts that tell stories of the African African American Martin Luther the USCT Ancestors of First American experience. History and King Jr. Memorial Lady Michelle Obama,” Frederick Dou- to the late social justice temporary pieces of work. Culture Also on the Mall and takes visitors through the leader. You must sign up The museum features art overlooking the Tidal Ba- lives of former First Lady glass National The National Museum for a guided tour, but there from sub-Saharan Africa like sin, this memorial com- Michelle Obama’s two Historic Site of African American His- are also eight acres of sur- an ivory female fi gure as well memorates King Jr. with ancestors who fought in tory and Culture opened African American politi- rounding estate open to the as modern work like a wind inspiration from his fa- the United States Colored in 2016, becoming the new- cian and abolitionist Freder- public to explore. sculpture by British-Nigeri- mous speeches. The focal Troops. Visitors can also est of the Smithsonians. ick Douglass’ home and the Frederick Douglass Nation- an artist Yinka Shonibare. point of the memorial is look up their own ancestors The museum, located on place where he passed away al Historic Site, 1411 W St. SE, One exhibit currently a statue of King emerg- who fought during the war the National Mall, is built has become a public site for open every day from 9 a.m. to on display sheds light on fe- ing out of a piece of stone, in a database located in the to look like the three-tiered people to visit. Born a slave, 4:30 p.m., for free. male artists from Africa and referencing his “I Have a museum. corona crown used in Yor- Douglass fl ed to Massachu- their contributions to issues Dream” speech where he The African American uban art from West Africa. setts and became the leader National Museum like the environment, iden- says, “with this faith, we Civil War Museum, 1925 Ver- It is wrapped in a bronze- of the national abolitionist tity, politics and race through will be able to hew out of mont Ave. NW, open Mondays of African Art colored metal lattice to movement and an activ- painting and fashion. the mountain of despair a from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday The National Museum of honor the ironwork of Af- ist against slavery and for The National Museum of stone of hope.” This statue through Friday from 10 a.m. to African Art aims to prompt rican Americans enslaved women’s rights. The home African Art, 950 Independence is surrounded by a wall of 6:30 p.m., Saturdays from 10 people to think about the in southern states. now houses thousands of Ave. SW, open every day from other noteworthy quotes a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays power of African art with The museum includes artifacts like books, letters 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., free. nearly 36,000 artifacts like, “I was a drum major noon to 4 p.m., free. and furniture that belonged both historical and more con- Black history events to attend around D.C. ISABELLA SORIAL REPORTER after being denied service. ognizing black history and Anyone is welcome to read art. Black entertainer and Outside of politics, D.C. a piece of literature about D.C. community advocate is fi lled with rich culture the movement or attend as Rayceen Pendarvis will host and history, and Black His- an audience member. Inter- an event celebrating the ac- tory Month is the time to ested readers can register complishments of African celebrate it. online through Eventbrite, American people through- From black art shows at but drop-in performers are out history. The program coff ee shops to civil rights also welcome. will include several diff er- memorials, here are some Aggies Helping Aggies, ent performers, including of the top events to check Inc., 1525 Iris St. NW, noon to singer and songwriter Nia out during Black History 2:30 p.m., free. Simmons and poet Micah Month. Powell. Head to Cleveland Saturday, Feb. 15: Park Library for an evening Friday, Feb. 7: The Beloved recognizing black history PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY CAMILLE DESANTO | PHOTOGRAPHER and art. Richard Wright wrote the “Native Son” in 1940, but the story about a young black man facing oppression and ‘Meditations,’ A Community: MLK racism has stood the test of time. Jr. and Activism Cleveland Park Library, Black History Art 3310 Connecticut Ave. NW, 5 Show Archivist Derek Gray to 8:30 p.m., free with registra- Kick off the month at the of the D.C. Public Library tion. Black authors’ works to black-owned business Cul- will give a presentation on ture Coff ee Too in North- King’s activism in D.C., fo- Saturday, Feb. east D.C. The coff ee shop is cusing on his community 22: Black History read this February showcasing pieces from two organizing eff orts and speeches, at the Anacos- Luncheon and African American artists, Book Signing ZENIYA COOLEY ‘Well-Read Black Girl’ by husband and wife James tia Community Museum. REPORTER Glory Edim and Zsudayka Terrell, who When you attend, you can Grab lunch and listen also visit a related exhibit to a book reading at the A reader should never judge a book produce prints, paintings From author and fi lmmaker Zora Neale called “A Right To The Washington Renaissance by its cover, but “Well-Read Black Girl” and textiles. All of their Hurston’s vivacious prose to writer and City,” which features sto- Hotel later this month. The is enchanting inside and out. The book’s work will be on display and journalist Ta-Nehisi Coates’s incisive obser- ries of how D.C. residents Association for the Study eye-catching cover – a blend of peach and available for purchase. vations, there are dozens of black writers advocated for better city of African American Life purple surrounding an illustration of a Culture Coff ee Too, 300 who have made their mark on literature. planning and civic en- and History, which is head- female reader – makes Edim’s anthology Riggs Road NE, 6 to 8 p.m., Here are a few noteworthy works by gagement throughout his- quartered in D.C., is hosting impossible to miss. The interior is equally free. black authors deserving of examination tory. a book reading and signing as engaging, introducing the audience to a and celebration. Saturday, Feb. Smithsonian Anacostia event centered around the collection of essays from the black women Community Museum, 1901 theme, “African Americans writers Lynn Nottage, Jesmyn Ward and 8: Black History ‘Native Son’ by Richard Read-in Fort Place SE, 2 to 4 p.m., free and the Vote.” The event Wright Gabourey Sidibe. “Well-Read Black Girl” with RSVP. will bring in more than 20 reveals the value of black women seeing The D.C. chapter of The Published in 1940, Wright’s magnum diff erent authors to discuss themselves in literature and recognizing North Carolina A&T State Thursday, Feb. 20: books like “Meet Jim Crow! opus discusses the demise of Bigger Thomas, that their experiences deserve a permanent University will host a black a 20-year-old African American male who Rayceen Pendar- and “Trailblazer” place on the page. history read-in to com- vis Is Living Black Washington Renaissance lives in the slums of South Side Chicago. As memorate the 1960 Greens- the novel progresses, the reader learns how History Hotel, 999 9th St. NW, book ‘The Fire Next Time’ by boro, N.C. sit-in when black signing begins at 10 a.m. and Bigger is driven to self-destruction amid the James Baldwin students refused to leave a Head to Cleveland Park racism and oppression he faces. is free, $115 for luncheon Notorious for his critical rhetoric, Bald- segregated lunch counter Library for an evening rec- Wright portrays the protagonist as a tickets. win often inveighed against the state of race product of his environment, refl ecting the relations in the U.S. In the 1962 book “The despair that black individuals – including Fire Next Time,” he writes about the need the author himself – often felt in a preju- for racial integration and peaceful coexis- diced society. The narrative is a cautionary tence between black and white races. tale that signifi es how American racism can The opening letter of the book, ad- devastate both the oppressed and the op- dressed to Baldwin’s nephew, sets the tone pressor. for the rest of the book, asserting that love ‘The Warmth of Other Suns’ and acceptance are the only solutions to black oppression. The essayist alludes to the by Isabel Wilkerson biblical story of Noah to argue that without Wilkerson, a Pulitzer Prize-winning racial reconciliation, America is vulnerable journalist, analyzes African Americans to similar fi ery devastation. abandoning the South for the promise of Northern and Western regions in the Unit- ‘The Autobiography of ed States – a phenomenon now known as Malcolm X’ by Malcolm X the Great Migration – in this remarkable and Alex Haley study published in 2010. The work is based on Wright’s poem, “The Warmth of Other Before the Spike Lee-directed fi lm ad- Suns,” which follows the story of three mi- aptation, there was the classic book – pub- grants. lished in 1965 – detailing the civil rights The author covers the three people activist’s momentous life. The book begins through complex storylines, allowing with Malcolm’s impoverished upbringing the reader to revere Ida’s free-spirited and concludes with his assassination in optimism, sympathize with George’s 1965. The advocate-author, alongside Haley, shattering collegiate dreams and gape chronicles his convictions and contribu- tions to black national thought. The autobi- at Robert’s aspirations. Wilkerson illus- CAMILLE DESANTO | PHOTOGRAPHER trates several diff erent black stories and ography is focused on Malcolm’s perspec- Cleveland Park Library is hosting D.C. community advocate and performer Rayceen Pendarvis for an evening brings out both tragedy and triumph in tive, highlighting experiences of challenge discussing the accomplishments of the black community. this read. and change that can apply to all people. GAMES OF THE WEEK SQUASH MEN’S BASKETBALL at the Mid-Atlantic Squash at St. Bonaventure Conference Championship Wednesday | 7 p.m. Friday-Sunday | All day The Colonials look to avenge their Squash hosts the MASC. A-10 opening loss to the Bonnies.

February 3, 2020 • Page 8 NUMBER The percentage of men’s basketball’s 272 assists this season that come from redshirt Sports CRUNCH 40 senior guard Armel Potter Inside the coaching staff: Meet the volunteer coaches working for gymnastics, baseball

WILL MARGERUM outstanding,” Watson said. “Like STAFF WRITER I said, the girls work really hard. She’s a great leader. She’s been a Behind the scenes of every team really great mentor for me.” is a staff of coaches working to help In charge of level nine and level 10 it improve and perform. But some of gymnasts at Chantilly, Watson said those coaches choose to pour hours he has overseen the development into practice and games without of national champions at the Junior pay, just because they love the sport. Olympic level Foster-Cunningham The baseball and gymnastics said Watson’s experience in spotting coaching staffs both include helps athletes stay safe while they’re volunteer coaches that specialize in practicing routines. catching and spotting, respectively. “It’s really an invaluable The coaching duo, comprised of contribution that he’s making to our Justin Watson and Ryan Smoot, program and our development,” said their love for the sport and the Foster-Cunningham said. experience they’ve cultivated at GW Under NCAA guidelines, a supersedes a number on a paycheck. paid coach must have completed a Watson ranks among the most four-year degree. Watson said he is experienced coaches on campus, looking to complete his degree in having joined the gymnastics information systems management coaching staff for the Colonials back to be eligible for paid employment in 2005. He has served as a volunteer in a college athletic department. under head coach Margie Foster- On the baseball squad, Smoot Cunningham in every season since. is in his first season as a volunteer Watson said he accepted an offer baseball coach on head coach Gregg from Chantilly in May 2005 and Ritchie’s staff, specializing in the moved up to the District, he said. catching position. Throughout summer 2005, Smoot graduated from the Watson met GW gymnasts who Virginia Military Institute last May ARIELLE BADER | SENIOR PHOTO EDITOR went to Chantilly to stay in shape with a degree in economics and Gymnastics volunteer assistant coach Justin Watson has worked with the program for 15 years. during the offseason. Through those business. In four seasons on the field connections, he said he learned about with the Keydets, Smoot split time connections and a coaching run practice activities and then biggest difference between me and an open volunteer coach position on at first base and catcher, starting 75 reputation of his own, he said. After returns to the offices to evaluate the the rest of the staff,” Smoot said. Foster-Cunningham’s staff. games and accumulating a career spending the summer coaching performances of his players. Smoot added that the coaching “I feel very fortunate to have on-base percentage of .428. at baseball camps, including one In addition to coaching on Foggy experience and passion for baseball been able to stumble into this “I went there for four years and at GW, Smoot said he received an Bottom, Smoot said he heads to a motivate him more than a salary. position,” Watson said. knew early on there that I wanted offer from Ritchie’s staff to coach at training facility to teach young kids “I enjoy the game, I enjoy being Watson said the position to work in baseball and probably GW. baseball skills after GW practices. around our guys and working with allows him to work with Foster- coach,” Smoot said. Smoot said he holds the same “A few nights a week I go to our staff and I enjoy competition,” Cunningham, a four-time NCAA Advice from current and former responsibilities as paid coaches on a baseball training facility to give Smoot said. “I think if those are coach of the year in the southern coaches helped forge Smoot’s path the team. He added that he takes lessons to some kids. Kind of a way things you value maybe a little bit and southeast region. to a position on a collegiate staff, care of administrative work and that I can make a few bucks, so in more than money, then what you’re “The culture of our team is encouraging him to start building sets up prior to practices, helps that respect that’s probably the doing is satisfying.”

IN BRIEF Billikens stymie women’s basketball’s winning streak

Less than five minutes into the first half, sophomore guard Myia Clark drained a three, then tacked on three more points to seal a lead over women’s basketball that helped decide Saint Louis’ win. The Colonials (9-12, 3-5 A-10) couldn’t erase the third-quarter deficit, snapping its two-game win streak and dropping a 59–45 contest to the Billikens (12-9, 4-4 A-10). “Credit to Saint Louis, I thought they shot the lights out from three,” head coach Jennifer Rizzotti said. “I hope that doesn’t happen too much against us the rest of this year. They won some 50-50 balls down the stretch when we really needed to get a stop, and then obviously their point guards are a really tough check for us.” On the season, the Billikens shoot 33.6 percent from deep. But against the Colo- nials, Saint Louis drained 56.3 percent of its attempts from beyond the arc on 9-of- SOPHIA YOUNG | PHOTOGRAPHER 16 shooting. GW hit just 4-of-20 from three-point territory, down from its season Senior Juan Sebastian Laguna rallies the ball in Saturday’s game against Dickinson. average of 31.3 percent. Redshirt junior guard Sydney Zambrotta led the team with 16 points followed by sophomore center Kayla Mokwuah with 12 points. Both players came off the bench in Sunday’s outing. Men’s and women’s squash seek On the other side of the court, freshman guard and forward Rachel Kent poured on 19 points, hitting 6-of-8 attempts from behind the arc over the course consistency despite roster shifts of the game. “She had a really quick release,” Zambrotta said. “She moved really well off TARA JENNINGS wise, but we’re working on that now the ball. So we didn’t really do a good job finding her throughout when they were REPORTER because the top eight of the teams in the on offense, and we were on defense. All credit to her. She’s a great shooter, but we squash league are very fit,” Laguna said. definitely struggled finding her on the perimeter and being there on the closeout.” After spending a two-week stretch on The women’s squad entered its road Saint Louis opened the game with a steal, picking off redshirt freshman guard the road last month, men’s and women’s span riding a three-game win streak Tori Hyduke and returning it for a layup. Redshirt freshman forward Mayowa squash are heading back to the Foggy complete with two clean sweeps. But Taiwo responded with a layup of her own a minute later to even the score. Bottom Campus with an altered roster. over the trip, the Colonials dropped all six The Colonials went 6-of-17 from the field, while the Billikens went 6-of-14 in During its time on the road, the No. 12 matches. Junior Zoe Foo Yuk Han went 4-2 a back-and-forth quarter. Despite getting several looks off screens, the Colonials men’s squad (8-8) and the No. 14 women’s at the No. 1 spot over that span and of the went 3-of-10 from beyond the arc, while the Billikens converted 2-of-3. team (5-12) took on top teams and battled 48 matches lost, 14 went into extra games. Zambrotta drained a three-point bucket to draw the Colonials and Billikens with roster changes. Head coach Anderson Despite the losses, senior Engy level at 15 before the conclusion of the first quarter. Good said that while the squads bonded Elmandouh said the experience has helped The Billikens struck first again in the second quarter, hitting a three-pointer during their time away from campus, the players grow together as a team, improve from the corner to reestablish their lead. The Colonials came within one point men and women need to work to improve their confidence on the court and change up twice in the second quarter but could not break through. consistency on the court and become more their approach to the rest of the season. The Billikens continued to amass points from deep, hitting 3-of-5 attempts to patient during rallies. “I think those were the matches where, inch in front. Freshman forward Faith Blethen prevented the Billikens from rout- Two members of the men’s team – because it wasn’t so intense and there ing the Colonials early on, hustling for the ball after a steal from the Billikens. By junior Mohammad Alterki, who played wasn’t so much pressure, they could go the end of the half, the Colonials trailed by two possessions. consistently at the No. 1 spot this season, for shots that are more difficult or they’re “Their shooters had a really quick release so we just needed to be there, mean- and freshman Ian Blatchford, who played not as used to playing during matches,” ing be prepared to be there and anticipate the shot,” Mokwauh said. at the No. 8 and No. 9 rungs – no longer Elmandouh said. The Billikens started the second half with another hit from deep and proceed- appear on the squad’s roster. The duo last Freshman Aariya Patel no longer ed to go on a 9-0 scoring run. The Colonials burned a timeout to stifle some of the appeared in the Colonials’ 5-4 upset of appears on the women’s roster. Her last momentum, and Zambrotta hit a shot to end the run at the 5:14 mark. Colombia, which marked the final match of game was Nov. 24 against Colombia, but Mokwuah said the team needed to be more patient on the offensive side of their fall slate Nov. 24. the squad added freshman Grace Stevenson the ball. Good declined to say why the two and Claire Foley for the spring slate. Prior to “We definitely talked about being more patient in the post position and the players are not listed on the roster. the two new additions, the Colonials were guard position,” Mokwuah said. “Just hitting people when they’re open and just “It was tough,” Good said. “Our rosters forced to play just eight spots on the ladder executing our plays better and running what works.” changed a little bit, but it’s really just and defaulted the ninth match. Despite going 3-of-14 from the field and 0-of-3 from beyond the arc, the Colo- knowing that we’re right still there, even if “Having a full roster takes a lot of the nials found some momentum of their own in the waning minutes of the quarter. a couple key parts of our lineup aren’t there pressure away,” Elmandouh said. “And A block from Mokwuah led to a layup from Taiwo, but sophomore guard Ciaja anymore.” they’ve been great. They really assimilated Harbison sunk a triple to end the quarter and left the Colonials trailing at 46–38. Over its five-game road stretch, the really well to the team. They have such a The Colonials came out hot to start the fourth quarter and chip away at the Colonials earned two wins against Navy great attitude on court and off.” lead. GW started a high press, and Zambrotta earned a steal and a bucket. Blethen and Williams and extended their winning Among the six teams the Colonials also nabbed the ball and dished it to Taiwo for a layup, decreasing the deficit to 11. streak to five games in its spring slate. But played in their road stretch, all six hold a The Billikens settled back in as Kent hit her final three-point shot of the game the squad dropped three straight matches to lower College Squash Association ranking. at the 3:38 mark to stymie the Colonial comeback. The Colonials went 5-of-11 from Dartmouth, Cornell and Yale, winning eight Good said the tough competition showed the field, but the Billikens ran out the clock to land on top of the Colonials 59–45. of 27 games. Senior Juan Sebastian Laguna, the Colonials their need to be consistent and “I actually thought over the course of the game, our execution wasn’t bad,” senior Jamie Oakley and junior Salim Khan patient in rallies and create opportunities Rizzotti said. “We only had nine turnovers, but we have to be able to make shots notched two individual wins throughout on the court to meet higher levels of and finish plays, whether it’s through contact or somebody running at us or hav- the losses. competition. ing a quick short-term memory of the shot you just missed and being able to step Good added that the team still has a “It’s always a great experience, playing up and make the next one.” chance at a successful season despite the stronger teams like that and seeing what The Colonials are back in action on the road Thursday against St. Bonaventure. changing roster and losses, adding that the parts of our game they take advantage of so Tipoff is slated for 7 p.m. team’s character was defined in moments of easily and where we can improve,” Good struggle. said. “It’s just incredible now, being able to Laguna said the men’s squad has focused know what we have to do to get to where on physical fitness to match its competitors, we want to go.” –Roman Bobek running “pyramids” to improve cardio The men’s and women’s teams are during practice and maintaining consistent back in action Feb. 7 through Feb. 9 for routines in the weight room. the Mid-Atlantic Squash Conference “Our main weakness is more fitness- Championships.