T he E agle ntcceagleonline.com
Volume 35 Issue 8
Tuesday May 7, 2019
NORTHEAST TEXAS COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Work4college Program offers debt-free education By Adriana Elizondo Staff Writer With the national student debt standing at nearly $1.6 trillion and climbing, Northeast Texas Community College offers an alternative way to finance college through its unique work scholarship program. Students in the Work4College program earn a wage while also creating a fund for tuition that allows them the chance to attend college without generating debt. Those accepted into the program can work a maximum of 15 hours per week and earn $15 per hour. Half of the income goes into their pockets and the rest goes into an account for tuition and fees. The 10-week program, piloted in 2014 as Work Scholarship, is about to begin for its sixth summer with approximately 70 students
participating this year. NTCC Vice President for Advancement, Dr. Jon McCullough, said the number of students working to earn their college tuition has quadrupled since the program began. McCullough said the Work4College program has helped a large number of students avoid accumulating student loan debt to pay for classes. “One thing that makes a student a better student is not having to stress about their finances,” said McCullough. NTCC is currently the only community college in the state of Texas that offers this type of work scholarship program to its students. Seven universities have similar programs, but they are all private four-year schools. Work4College is privately funded through See Summer, pg. 2
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Current and prospective NTCC students are eligible to participate in the Work4College summer scholarship program. The earned income will automatically be divided between tuition fees and personal spending accounts.
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| mandy smith
Jessica Smith teaches a yoga session during Instructor Justin Hargrove’s Concepts of Fitness class.
By Elisabeth Lively Layout and Design Editor
Three hours, 58 minutes, 12 seconds and 26 miles later, tears streamed down Jessica Smith’s face as she crossed the finish line. Spectators cheered and applauded her efforts to complete a task that many runners have never experienced. After training for 16 weeks, Smith packed her bags, boarded an airplane and flew to Massachusetts to run in the 2019 Boston Marathon along with 32,000 other runners. “Magical,” Smith said. “That’s the only way I can describe it.” For the 42-year-old, running the marathon was more than just a sport, it was a tribute to the hundreds of bystanders and runners that were either killed or injured in the 2013 Boston bombing. Smith explained that she often found herself crying during the marathon, remembering the tragedies that had happened on that very day, six years earlier. “I thought about that moment [and] the people,” Smith said. “Not just the people who were necessarily injured, but the people who were around. Kind of everyone whose lives were changed that day either because they lost a loved one, or someone was injured, or they were there and witnessed all that. So, it was emotional.” See Full-time, pg. 6
Jessica Smith, a mother, gym owner, and full-time NTCC student, ran the 2019 Boston Marathon.
Quote of the Month:
A&M University selects three NTCC chemistry students It was just a regular Saturday morning. Jordan Whelchel opened a new tab on his computer and saw the Texas A&M application portal. “I opened it, not even out of habit, I don’t know why I opened it,” Whelchel said. The portal had been updated with his letter of acceptance into the chemical engineering program at Texas A&M. The Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering at Texas A&M University is one of the largest, fully accredited programs in the country and boasts degree programs that are rather selective as the quality of the candidates keeps growing every year. “The first thing I did was call the other two guys and tell them to check,” Whelchel said. Chambers was the first to receive the call. Davis was next, but without internet access, Davis gave his login information to Chambers
while his family crowded around the phone awaiting the news. All three discovered they had been accepted to the program. “I was shocked,” Davis said. “I didn’t expect it at all, especially [this soon] in April.” In previous years, an acceptance decision was not made until three months after the submission deadline in March. “Everything I had heard was that we would not hear til June,” Chambers said. “That’s when they accept people because they wait for the spring grades to come in.” With only six transfer students being accepted to the program last year, chemistry professor Drew Murphy said having three students from NTCC accepted is a major accomplishment. “We’re always really proud of them,” Murphy said. “They’re all lab assistants and tutors. They’re awesome guys. They’re always putting out their best for us so it’s good that it’s paying off for See Program, pg. 2
UPCOMING EVENTS
“If you could only sense how important you are to the lives of those you meet; how important you can be to the people you may never even dream of. There is something of yourself that you leave at every meeting with another person.”
Left to right, Jordan Whelchel, Chesney Davis, and Matthew Chambers were chosen for the chemical engineering program at A&M University- College Station.
By Joelle Weatherford Copy Editor
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| joelle weatherford
- Fred Rogers
Last Day of Spring Semester..................................................May 9 Mother’s Day........................................................................May 12 Finals week..................................................................... May 10-17 Spring Graduation................................................................May 18 First Day of May Intersession..............................................May 20 Work4College Orientation..............................................May 21, 23
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The Eagle
Northeast Texas Community College
May 7, 2019
NEWS
Summer scholarship program hard at work Cont. from pg. 1 donations from local community members, businesses and private foundations. In November 2018, the Greater Texas Foundation awarded NTCC a $250,000 grant that has also contributed to the success of the program. Over the years, students have worked in jobs on campus ranging from maintenance, information technology, student services, athletics, student housing, the automotive shop, the library, the college farm and as lab assistants. Some students have been able to earn money for college tuition and fees before they even begin attending college. Students can participate in the Work4College program for two years. “We are teaching our students how to work. These are real jobs, their hands are getting dirty,” McCullough said. “If students weren’t doing the work, then someone else would have to do it. That is what we call meaningful work.” Biomedical Science major, Jazmin Garcia, has participated in the work scholarship program for the past two years. She said the program has helped pay for classes that her financial aid did not cover and assisted with the purchase of books and other supplies. “I had first heard about the program from my high school,” Garcia said. “I knew I was going to need money to pay for school, so I figured I would go ahead and submit my application and see what happened.”
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Adrian Santiesteban, a Chapel Hill High School student, answers phones while working in the Work4College program. Jobs in the program range from office duties to farm work. During her first year, Garcia worked as a receptionist with student services. Besides earning money for college, she said the opportunity to work on campus also helped her develop better communication skills. After completing her second year in the program, Garcia was hired on at the college as an employee. Students are also required to take a three-hour leadership course as they go through the summer program. The weekly class offers instructions on everything from writing resumes to developing time management and interviewing skills.
The course also educates students on the processes involved in taking out student loans and encourages them to avoid going into debt. Student workers must also complete a community service project as a part of the program. Work4College has become successful over the years, now other schools including Angelina College, Weatherford College and College of the Mainland have reached out to NTCC to learn how they can incorporate the program onto their campuses. McCullough said the Greater Texas Foundation grant has provided funding
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Work4College students get their hands a little dirty while planting grass during last summer’s work scholarship program. The students earned money working on campus that would go toward their college tuition and fees. to hire a consultant to develop a how-to manual that Northeast can share with other colleges. “A rising tide lifts all ships,” McCullough said. “The college believes if something good is happening, we don’t want to be the only ones with the program. We see how good it’s doing in our community, and we want others to benefit from it, too.” If the number of student workers increases to 100 in the future, McCullough said
the next goal would be to also pilot the program in the fall and spring semesters and possibly even offer a version in local high schools. McCullough said he is excited about the growth of the Work4College program and the interest it has generated in other colleges across the state. “To think that one day other community colleges will also have this plan in effect and it all started here at NTCC,” McCullough said. Over the years, the
Work4College program has evolved in many ways. McCullough said he is proud of the direction it is currently headed. “The Work4College Program has turned into so much more than just a summer job,” McCullough said. “Students learn to work, they give back through community service, and they pay off their tuition and fees in advance. They are getting their education the old fashioned way, they are earning it.”
Program selects 3 students Cont. from pg. 1
them.” Chambers said he would not have made it to this point if it weren’t for the faculty at NTCC. “I barely passed the TSI,” Chambers said. “I passed by one question and I was guessing
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for a lot of them. The faculty here, the support that they give, the mentorship and the one-onone caring relationship that’s there makes all the difference.” “I’m really thankful for Dr. Murphy, he’s helped me out a lot,” Whelchel said. While he hates to see the students leave, Murphy is excited to see for what lies ahead.
| tahj mcrae
Honors Director Dr. Andrew Yox grades papers while getting in his daily workout at the NTCC fitness center.
Get a good workout at NTCC’s Fitness Center By Samuel Sandate Staff Writer Students, faculty and staff who are looking for a place on campus to workout and get in shape can head over to the Northeast Texas Community College fitness center. The gym is located next to the east dorms and can be accessed with a valid student or employee ID. The fitness center, which includes a weight room, cardio machines, spinning bikes, free weights and cybex-weight machines, is open Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 11. p.m. for general students and seven days a week from 6:30 a.m. to 11. p.m. for dorm students and employees. Only currently enrolled students and NTCC employees are allowed to use the facility. Professor of Exercise Science Dr. Tom Seabourne, who manages the center, said the updated workout facility and additional
student housing was added as an upgrade to the campus in 2011. “The college saw a need for a fitness center, so they decided to build it together with the dorm rooms and put it as a package,” Seabourne said. Seabourne encourages students to visit the gym and begin the process of developing a workout routine. He said it is an easy task for anyone to get started. “Come in and read the rules, follow them and be respectful to others,” he said. NTCC student Samuel Gonzalez said the fitness center offers all of the basic needs to get a good workout. “It is a really nice place to go because it has nice equipment and a good atmosphere,” Gonzalez said. So, for those who are either looking to start a diet and workout plan or just a place to get out the frustrations of finals week, the fitness center is the place to be.
THE EAGLE IS LOOKING FOR NEWS WRITERS, SPORTS REPORTERS, PHOTOGRAPHERS AND DESIGNERS FOR THE UPCOMING FALL SEMESTER! EMAIL NTCCEAGLEEDITORS@GMAIL.COM
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Former NTCC Presidential Scholar, Matthew Jordan, recently won a National Science Foundation grant.
Former NTCC student wins $138,000 grant Special to The Eagle Louisiana State University graduate, Matthew Jordan, has won a $138,000 National Science Foundation grant for his work on electrochemical selective separations for biooil upgrading. Jordan, of Pittsburg, spent his freshman and sophomore years at NTCC (2012-2014)
as an engineering major and Honors student. While at NTCC, he won the college’s first group State of Texas Caldwell Award in Fort Worth for his central role in suggesting a way to position and categorize the college’s Caddo exhibit. Jordan became the first NTCC student ever to win the student election of the
Great Plains Honors Council, and the third of nine NTCC winners of the Jack Kent Cooke scholarship. In reflecting on the role of his time at NTCC in winning the NSF grant, Jordan said, “The competitive portfolio that NTCC Honors helped build is ever more rewarding for nationally competitive fellowships.”
May 7, 2019
The Eagle
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Northeast Texas Community College
NEWS
New bass fishing club catches on at NTCC
By Emma Yeager Entertainment Editor
A rising sport is taking over high schools and colleges across East Texas. Recently, bass fishing has become a popular competitive event across the states and is making its way to Northeast Texas Community College. Northeast Texas is surrounded by popular lakes such as Lake O’ the Pines, Lake Cypress Springs and Lake Bob Sandlin that provide local fishermen the advantage which means that NTCC could be successful in a new found bass fishing club. NTCC student, Austin King, founded the bass fishing team last year out of his devotion for the sport. Since he was old enough to hold a fishing rod, King has been an avid fishermen. Almost every day he and his grandpa would fish together, and it deepened his passion for fishing. “At first, I just loved to fish, but after starting the club last year, I have realized there are thousands of people with the same passion for fishing as me,” King said. Through this new organization, King hopes to give people another sporting option other than traditional sports such as baseball, basketball or soccer. His aspiration is that people will start to take bass fishing more seriously and see it as a true sport. “It was and is still extremely challenging, but the club is getting better than ever and will get even
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| tahj mcrae
From left: NTCC Bass Fishing team members Dakota Durfee, Braden Jones, Danny Boyd and Austin King are preparing to compete in the national championship in Alabama. Not pictured: Carson McCone. better next year because of all the recognition we are receiving,” King said. “I truly believe what we have created at the school has a future as the popularity of bass fishing grows.” Prior to establishing the team, King met a group of guys who were also interested in bass fishing, and he began researching how to start a club.
The team started with just King and one other guy. Since then, it has grown to five members. The crew prefers that anyone interested in joining have their own boat and fishing rods. Students will also need to be able to pay their own expenses for traveling and entering tournaments. Entry fees can range from $75 to $200, some even higher.
When the team wins a tournament they receive prize money and invest it back into the club. A couple of days before a tournament, the club goes together to the competition’s location to scout out the lakes and become familiar with the area. Most of the fishing tournaments run through the fall and spring but slowdown in the summer due to the
heat. The team travels to various states that hold tournaments, Kentucky and Alabama to name a few. Previous tournaments qualified them to compete against other colleges such as the University of Pittsburgh and Texas A&M-College Station. The Bass Fishing Club will be competing in the national championship at the end of the semester. Contestants must have two guys to one boat, one as the boater and the other as the co-angler. To win, contestants are judged by their five largest bass fish all together. The largest fish caught by the group may be weighed separately for an extra entry, and the perfect weight depends on the location of the lake. “I think fishing is a big confidence sport. If you don’t believe in what you’re doing, you’re not going to catch fish,” Carson McCone, secretary of the club, said. Through competing and growing the club, the team is hoping to gain some recognition across campus. They are also looking for recruits within the local high schools. Anyone who is serious about fishing is welcome to join the leading members said. “Some of the best fishermen, I do believe, are here in East Texas,” McCone said. Students who are interested in joining the bass fishing team can contact Director of Student Activities and Multicultural Affairs, Rico Willis, for further information.
IT program continues to offer specialized training By Hannah Dove-Mercer Staff Writer Nestled right off Interstate 30, several miles away from the main Northeast Texas Community College campus, stands the NTCC Industrial Technology building. IT instructor Kevin Frost refers to the facility and its programs as one of Mount Pleasant’s “best kept secret.” “But we don’t want it to be anymore,” he quickly added. The IT workforce program began offering classes in March 2011. The program has since grown to include training for dual credit students from Mt. Pleasant, Paul Pewitt and Chapel Hill. Some of the specialized certificates offered through industrial technology include FANUC’s CERT, which trains students in operating the latest in robotic automation, FANUC controlled milling machines, and electrical technology, certifying students on the proper way to install electrical equipment and wiring. Students enrolled in the
IT program can also receive a certificate in electromechanical as well as an associate of applied science in Industrial Technology. NTCC also has a 2+2 agreement with UT-Tyler that allows students who complete the program to transfer as a junior to earn a BA of science in IT with a business emphasis. A wealth of equipment adorns the large training space, and students and instructors alike make good use of the machinery. “There was a huge need for this facility from the local business industries,” Frost said. “So, we started an economic development corporation here in Mount Pleasant with NTCC and Mount Pleasant ISD and created this facility.” Students benefit from the courses by receiving training that they can immediately use when they enter the workforce. “I think it’s a great learning experience,” student Rudi Pastrana said. “The teachers really work with you. You
learn a lot, because it is so hands-on.” Tim Davis, electrical instructor, said the program offers so much more than just a classroom setting. Fifty percent of the classwork relies on hands-on experiences. “People sometimes think what we do is easy, but this is an entirely different language,” Tim Davis, electrical instructor, said. “I try and create an atmosphere of learning. I try not to make it so much about grades because these kids are going to walk out of here with a trade.” This program is not just designed for the traditional college students, but for training for employees of local businesses and for high school students. In fact, five high school students will be graduating from the program during NTCC’s May 18 graduation ceremony. Samuel Barbosa, Pablo Caro and Ben Swiger from Chapel Hill High School, and Nathan Mullins and Trae Barton from Paul Pewitt.
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| hannah dove mercer
IT student Rudi Pastrana demonstrates how to use the tech pendant to move and program a robot at the NTCC’s industrial technology facility. Their instructor’s pride ran deep, almost as deep as their own. One of Davis’ students from Mt. Pleasant High School, Giovanni Hipolito, recently won first place at the District SkillsUSA competition in Hands-On Construction Wiring contest, and on February 8, 2019, won 1st place. He will represent his high
school the State of Texas in Kentucky June 25, 2019. “Kids who thought they wouldn’t even go to college have a great opportunity when they get into this program,” Davis said. Davis and Frost work to equip the students with the skills needed to move into the once they’re done, with this multi-million-dollar industry, that many grants
helped make possible. Frost said many students will have the opportunity to obtain employment as soon as they graduate. This unique program offers students not only an education, but the ability to get skilled training that will move them into the workforce. For information contact Frost at 903-4348384.
Northeast receives second Tree Campus USA award Special to The Eagle
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Northeast Texas Community College biology students, administrators and faculty celebrate NTCC being named a Tree Campus USA for the second year. From left: Dr. Jonathan McCullough, Executive Vice President for Advancement, Dr. Kevin Rose, Vice President of Instruction, Jim Ward, Professor of Biology, Verania Leyva, Sanum Shahid, Matthew Chambers, Jeff Chambers, Vice President for Administrative Services, Jacob Lambie, Conner Reese, Arielle Tuazon, Dr. Josh Stewart, Vice President for Student and Outreach Services, and Dr. Ron Clinton, NTCC president. Students who were involved in the project, but not pictured are: Ramzi Smith, Yoceline Navarez, Hailey Kirkman, Lindsay Garcia.
Northeast Texas Community College recently received the Tree Campus USA Award from the National Arbor Day Foundation for the second year in a row. This program recognizes two and fouryear colleges and universities that maintain a campus that promotes healthy trees and student learning with regards to the importance of trees to our environment. The reward encourages colleges to develop a tree care plan, annual student service learning tree projects and an annual Arbor Day observance. Led by Jim Ward, professor of Biology, NTCC earned this award through the bond program plaza plan. This included the planting of more than 40 new trees and two service-learning projects conducted by students in NTCC Biology II courses.
“We worked closely with our plant services department to determine areas of need on the campus. We are especially grateful to Tom Ramler, Director of Plant Services, who has been instrumental in the project,” Ward said. “It has been very rewarding for my biology students to be part of something hands-on that will have a lasting impact on the NTCC campus long after they have graduated.” One project tackled the infestation of mistletoe in an oak tree in the plaza that was in critical condition. The second project involved students identifying the species of trees on campus to create an identification chart. Additionally, a group of Honors Northeast students worked together to develop a Campus Tree Care Plan for future use by campus administration. The culmination of these events in 2017 qualified NTCC to receive this award the first time.
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The Eagle
May 7, 2019
Northeast Texas Community College
NEWS
Skills development grant to provide job training Special to The Eagle
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Top from left, Dr. Ron Clinton, NTCC president, Jimmy Smith, NTCC workforce developer, and Eddie Priefert, Priefert Mft. president, bottom, Julian Alvarex, TWC commissioner representing labor.
Priefert Manufacturing Company Inc. has partnered with Northeast Texas Community College to provide job training using a $546,671 Skills Development Fund grant from the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). The grant will benefit workers in the Workforce Solutions Northeast Texas area. “The partnership of Priefert Manufacturing Company Inc. and North Texas Community College on this Skills Development Fund grant will benefit both the local community and its workforce,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Julian Alvarez. “Our labor force continues to be among the most sought after in the world thanks to the state’s commitment to implement strategies to improve the skills of Texas workers.”
This grant will be used to provide custom training to 325 new and incumbent workers in the manufacturing industry. Trainees will include machine operators, material movers, production welders and quality control inspectors. Upon completion of training, the workers will receive an average hourly wage of $24.75. Since its inception in 1996, the Skills Development Fund grants have created or upgraded more than 342,428 jobs throughout Texas. During fiscal year 2018, the grants supported the creation of 4,682 new jobs. The Legislature allocated $48 million to the Skills Development Fund for the 2018-19 biennium. Employers seeking more information about the Skills Development Fund may visit the TWC website at www.texasworkforce.org/ skills.
New advising program begins Special to The Eagle A new opportunity is being offered to working adults interested in changing careers or going back to start or finish a degree. It can’t get more convenient than this. Dr. Josh Stewart, NTCC Vice President for Student and Outreach Services, is offering special one-on-one advising for working adult students at the Industrial Technology Training Center (ITTC) in Mount Pleasant. Advising will be on Thursday evenings, May 9 to June 27 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Appointments are not required. Just stop by to ask questions or take the first steps toward signing up for classes. Whether individuals want to earn a training certificate in one of NTCC’s in-demand workforce programs, get an associate’s degree in a field like health science or even go on to
complete a bachelor’s degree or higher, NTCC is a great place to start. From traditional faceto-face classes to shorter online sessions, the college has something to fit almost any busy schedule. Working adults have a lot on their plates, so the advisers will make the transition to college as seamless as possible. That’s why special advising sessions are being offered just for working adults. If the available times do not work out, individuals can also stop by the main campus and visit with the academic advising staff any time, Monday through Thursday, from 8 to 6, and Friday from 8 to noon. Get started with an application online at www.ntcc.edu/apply. For additional information, contact Dr. Josh Stewart at 903-434-8242 or his email jstewart@ntcc.edu.
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| joelle weatherford
NTCC international soccer team members from left, Diao Karim, Jeremy Coste and Amadou Gadio kill time between classes by checking their social media.
30 days, 4 networks, 0 likes By Shanequa Fleming Staff Writer
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Pictured with NTCC’s awards (from left) Madison Blood, Breanna White, Maddison Storck, René McCracken, Casey Oney, Jan Shirley and Katie Emmett.
NTCC Ag students bring home awards from TJCAA By Joelle Weatherford Copy Editor Students and faculty from the Northeast Texas Community College Agriculture Department recently attended the Texas Junior College Agriculture Association (TJCAA) conference at Texas A&M University College Station. In addition to attending a variety of sessions on trending agriculture topics, students also competed in competitions against other community college students from across the state. “I’m so proud of our
students. They continue to amaze me and always rise to a challenge when they are presented with one,” René McCracken, NTCC Ag Director, said. The Ag Department won first place for their scrapbook made by Breanna White, Katie Emmett, Jan Shirley, Madison Blood and Maddison Storck. The group also won second place for Most Outstanding Chapter and third place in Sweepstakes. Madison Blood participated in knowledge quizzes and won fourth place for equine, third for
horticulture and third for wildlife. Madison Storck came in second place for job interview and the team of Jan Shirley, Katie Emmett and Casey Oney placed second in public relations. In addition to representing NTCC well in competition, Shirley also represented NTCC in her state office role of reporter over the ceremonies. To learn more about NTCC’s Agriculture Department, contact McCracken rmccracken@ ntcc.edu or visit www.ntcc. edu/ag.
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Thirty days. Thirty days without making a post, scrolling through the timeline, or checking any notifications. No tweets, no more streaks, no sharing memes, or posting pictures of your lunch. The 30-day challenge has been going around for some time now, inspiring people to get off of social media for an entire month. The challenge was created so people could get away from social media and get back to enjoying reality. For some people, this may not seem like much of a challenge, but for others, it can be. “There were too many toxic things on social media that I wanted to get my mind away from,” NTCC student Derrick Brooks, who completed the 30-day challenge, said. “I was seeing how easily influenced people were and how they’re so quick to judge other people based on the things that they do or the things that they don’t do.” This brief break caused Brooks to reevaluate the negative impact social media has had on his life. “My break from it brought more positive thoughts into my mind,” Brooks said. “Social media had my mind on the wrong things. Things I couldn’t control.” Two NTCC soccer players from France had a few comments about the challenge as well. “Thirty days? That is too much. I can’t,” Amadou Gadio said. Fellow Frenchmen Leroy Diao agreed with
his teammate and said, “Maybe if we were in our country, yes. But here, it’s complicated because it’s how we contact our family.” Social media is used for socializing, networking, research, and news updates. But the main use in society is to keep people updated on other people’s lifestyles. “I will soon be a student at Hampton University, and I use social media to get to know my soon-to-be classmates and look up student organizations to know which one I would join,” NTCC student Makayla Thomas said. Social media can be very useful for those who need it but it’s not always used as a resource. “Some people spend too much time on social media,” Gadio added. ”It can be dangerous because some people put everything on their social networks. Now it’s easy to know. No privacy.” There are some apps that track how much time a person spends on social media, and through these apps, one can decide whether or not to take a social media detox. “It’s not hard. Once you break the habit it’s really easy,” NTCC student David Perez, who took a two-week social media break, said. “The hardest days are the first four to five days.” Social media is a virtual world that distracts from what is real and the present. While it is easy to get trapped in the frenzied world of social media, Perez said that if you can get past the first temptations, you can beat the 30day challenge.
May 7, 2019
The Eagle
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Northeast Texas Community College
NEWS
PTK wins national awards, inducts new members By Tonya Hammonds Staff Writer Over the past semester, the Phi Theta Kappa, Alpha Mu Chi Chapter attended the Texas Regional Convention in Houston and the PTK Catalyst Annual International Conference in Orlando, Florida. These experiences help students bond, and to travel to places they may not get the opportunity to do on their own,” Advisor for PTK, Dr. Melissa Fulgham said. At Regionals, Alpha Mu Chi brought home multiple awards, including Honors in Action Theme Award of Merit for Politics of Identity, and continued to be recognized as a Five Star Competitive Edge chapter and REACH chapter. Alpha Mu Chi ran as a chapter for Vice President for District Three officer, which included campaigning and a skit presented by the members. Taking the win, the chapter was sworn in and Jacob Lambie appointed by chapter as the new VP of District 3. “I’m very humbled and honored to step into this position,” Lambie said. “I know it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity.” Three new Five Star Competitive Edge members were pinned, of which included Jacob Lambie, Lillyan Haack and Veronica Womble. Ten chapter members were recognized in the District 3 Hall of Honor Lillyan Haack, Olivia Griffin, Courtney Baldwin, Tonya Hammonds, Jacob Lambie, Jessica Smith, Veronica Womble, Angel Hodges, Jasmin Garza and Karla Fuentes. Jacob Lambie brought home first place in the extemporaneous speech
competition, where he moved on to compete at Catalyst. Erick David Gaytan Fernandez received outstanding Alumni District 3 Hall of Honor. Hannah Fouche received Outstanding Officer District 3 Hall of Honor. Tyler Bernard received Chapter Member District 3 Hall of Honor. Dr. Fulgham received Continued Excellent Award for Advisors. Members of the Alpha Mu Chi chapter along with Navarro College members presented a interactive workshop on Determining A College Project. At Catalyst, Hannah Fouche was recognized at the international level as an Outstanding Officer, the first individual officer to win this award from NTCC. Dr. Fulgham received Continued Excellence Awards for advisors at international level. During the Catalyst, three Alpha Mu Chi members were in the Parade of Scholars for their accomplishments and rewarding of various scholarships and awards. Hannah Fouche, Leader of Promise, Rhylie Anderson, Leader of Promise and Coca Cola Academic Team and Lillyan Haack, Pearson and Hites Scholar. The chapter, along with three sister Texas chapters Kilgore, Paris and Navarro rallied around Lillyan Haack as she ran for International Division 2 VP. Haack who is a Texas State Park Ambassador and was sponsored by Healthcare Express, was unable to clinch the win. “She ran a beautiful campaign with a heartfelt message of taking chances, which she did,” Fulgham said. “Although she didn’t win the position, she won a
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| Joelle Weatherford
Above, 31 students were recently inducted into the Alpha Mu Chi, Phi Theta Kappa chapter. From left, Jacqueline Fouche, Luis Salazar, Katelyn Kimbrough, Payton Tyler, Yessica Gallardo, Mystical Leathers, Arielle Tuazon, Sarah Jordan, Mercades Collins, Crystal Manicor, Brianna McIntosh, Olivia Griffin, Tonya Hammonds, Zachary Davidson, Tometta Newsome, Lindsay Schuler, Courtney Baldwin, Jennifer Daniels, Parker Smith, Presley Smith, Wiliams Ferguson, Apollo Wesson, Code Armstrong, and Jessica Smith. Below, PTK students attended the Texas Regional Convention in March and received various awards. From left, Rhylie Anderson, Tonya Hammonds, Lillyan Haack, Dr. Melissa Fulgham, PTK adviser, Olivia Griffin, Jacob Lambie, Mercades Collins, Terso McMinn, Veronica Womble, Katelyn Kimbrough, and Angel Hodges. life changing set of memories. A genuinely beautiful person inside and out, it’s been a pleasure to see her growth in confidence. Delighted to see the next steps in her ongoing journey as a wildlife conservationist.” While Haack described her campaign as a rollercoaster, she enjoyed the opportunity to compete. “I especially loved talking to people and sharing stories” Haack said. “The connections I made were worth all the stress and all the work I did.” Alpha Mu Chi ended their semester with the induction of 31 members on the 2nd of May with eight new officers added.
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NTCC students win awards at Great Plains Honors Council Special to The Eagle Courtney Baldwin, an Honors Scholar at Northeast Texas Community College, recently received a Boe Award at the annual meeting of the Great Plains Honors Council (GPHC) on the campus of the University of Texas at Tyler. Boe awards are bestowed each spring to the six most compelling and creative student works of scholarship submitted to a panel of judges. Her essay was on the use of music in African-American movements to galvanize, unite, and direct concerted action. In perhaps the most exhaustively researched work ever submitted from NTCC, Baldwin covered the role of spirituals in Emancipation, the role of Jazz and movement songs in the Civil Rights movement, and the use of Hip Hop, and R&B in the Black Lives Matter movement today. “Baldwin not only won a Boe Award, but amazed everyone, including GPHC President-Elect, Dr. Mike James, with a spirited, luminous presentation of her work,” Dr. Andrew Yox, Honors Director, said. Several other scholars from NTCC also qualified to present their work at the Tyler GPHC meeting. This group included Verania Leyva, from Mount Pleasant, presenting her Caldwell-Award winning work on Barbara Conrad, Jazmin Garcia, from Mount Pleasant, on the influenza epidemic of 1918-19. Mercedes Collins, from Daingerfield, on University
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NTCC student Courtney Baldwin recently won the Boe Award during a meeting of the Great Plains Honors Council on the UT-Tyler campus. of Texas President, Homer Rainey, Daniel Landaverde, from Mount Pleasant, on his Caldwell-Award winning work on Mount Pleasant’s Hispanic immigrants. Miguel Paco, also from Mount Pleasant, on NTCC’s Caldwell and Webb Awardwinning film on Barbara Conrad, Karla Fuentes from Winnsboro on Mary Kay. Hannah Dickson, from Pittsburg, presented her Caldwell-Prize winning work on the history of Mount Pleasant’s Hispanics, with Jacob Lambie, from Scroggins, presenting his work on the lingering traces of racism at the University of Texas in the 1950s.
Madison Blood, from Big Sandy, also presented on the need for sustainable agriculture. A Sunday morning meeting of GPHC directors included the Student Representative of the GPHC, NTCC’s own Dickson, who won the top student position of the council in the fall of 2018 election. The Friends of Honors Northeast, a group of community patrons, sponsored posters this year for NTCC students at the yearly meeting. For any questions about the scholarship of NTCC students contact Yox at ayox@ntcc.edu.
Be cool, stay in school... and take your final exams!
Finals week - May 10-17
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The Eagle
May 7, 2019
Northeast Texas Community College
FEATURE
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Above, Smith poses for a photo with her husband, Jeremy, after running the Boston Marathon. Friends and family held a send off party for Smith at her gym, Rock Solid Fitness. From left, family friend Christa Wood, daughter Sarah, Smith, husband Jeremy, daughter Hannah, daughter Jessie, grandson Micah Croney, and granddaughter Paisley Croney.
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But running one of America’s biggest marathons is not her only accomplishment in life. For Smith, success as a business owner and mother came in more ways than one, although it didn’t start out that way. After getting pregnant at 16, Smith dropped out of high school to raise her daughter. “I knew that that would be the only way I could really take care of her and be the one raising her,” Smith said, “and not me being at school and her being at daycare, and someone else taking care of her at night while I was working.” After working two different jobs for some time, she found a full-time position as a veterinary technician, where she met her husband, Jeremy. “I’ve gotten to see this from the beginning and to watch her go through all of the struggles and all of the hard work that she’s done,” Smith’s husband said. “And it’s just amazing to see her complete this
journey and this dream that she’s had.” At the age of 31, a health magazine convinced Smith to get into better shape by changing her diet and exercise habits. She took up running with the goal to lose weight, but found a passion instead. But by 33, a recurrence of childhood events and memories caused Smith to suffer from severe anxiety to the point of being unable to leave her home, let alone go for a run. “Because of my fear, I had quit running,” Smith said. “My doctor said the only thing that was going to make me better is if I was going to put my running shoes back on, which was really scary, because that meant being out in an uncontrolled environment. But I did it, slowly and surely, and got back to running, got off all my medication and got stronger.” After getting back on her feet, Smith opened a gym in Quitman called Rock Solid Fitness, with her
business partner, Brook Rogers. Not only does Smith run the gym, but she is also a personal trainer and nutrition coach. However, she inspires more than just the gym’s clientele. It was motherhood that taught Smith that she needed to turn her life around to ensure her daughter didn’t have to walk the same path she faced. “Be comfortable being uncomfortable,” Smith said. “I think that’s kind of how I live my life too because there’s things that scare you, and you don’t want to do it just because it’s out of your box, out of your comfort zone. But that’s where the magic happens.” Because she did not complete high school, Smith never had the opportunity to walk across the stage and accept her diploma, however, she received her GED at 19. And although a friend framed the diploma for her, she never hung it on the wall. It just wasn’t enough. Smith said she would often browse Northeast Texas Community
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College’s website, looking at the courses and programs. Once she saw the new Human Performance curriculum, she knew the time had come to continue her education. “It’s pretty much taking all of my certifications, and giving me a degree,” she said. Smith will graduate with her associates degree this month, although she’s debating whether or not she wants to keep moving forward in her education. While she would like to expand her business, she has her eye on a master’s degree, in which she would teach kinesiology on a university level. But teaching junior high PE is another option on her table. The wife, mother, and business woman’s 43-year journey has been long and rocky, but every curve she faces just builds her up. “We’ve been married almost 20 years and as I look back over the course of time, I’ve gotten to see her blossom into what she is now,” Jeremy Smith said. “Not that she wasn’t an amazing person then,
but it was so hidden that through the 20-year marriage that we’ve had and the struggles and the trails and all of the things and support that she’s given me in raising our daughters, I don’t know any other thing to say but amazing. “She’s strong, she’s tough, she never lets anything stand in her way, and I’m just glad that she is my partner in life.” Smith has faced a multitude of obstacles in her life, and there are even more to come. But as the marathon of life continues on, her confidence assures her that no mountain is too big and no race is too long. “My motto right now is ‘Do hard things’ because that’s what it takes to get where I want to be,” Smith said. “I feel like I still have so much life to live. I’ve already lived a lot, but I think I have so much more to live. And ever decade just gets better… My thirties were good and my forties have been pretty flipping awesome so far.”
| halley goodwin
Above, La Batt and Williams are often seen communicating via hands in the SUB. Right, La Batt translates to the hearing impaired, while Pastor Clint Davis speaks to the congregation at First Baptist Church in Mount Pleasant.
The signing of the times By Tonya Hammonds Staff Writer
Great Western Dining Director Nancy La Batt and cashier Tammie Williams have a special way of communicating as they go about their daily work serving customers in the NTCC cafeteria. Williams, who is hearing impaired, and La Batt speak to one another through sign language. La Batt began signing and working as an interpreter more than 25 years ago. It was while teaching sign language classes for NTCC’s continuing education program that the two women crossed paths in 2017. Before joining GWD as an employee, Williams began taking classes at NTCC. Having difficulty understanding the classroom activities, Williams stood outside La Batt’s class one day after learning that she was teaching sign language on campus. Williams asked La Batt about attending her history, philosophy and chemistry classes and interpreting for her. La Batt agreed and the two began an immediate connection that
continues today in their work with GWD. Signing for Williams in her classes was just one of the services that La Batt has always felt called to do. She believes that her interest in learning how to sign was inspired from above. “I just always had a desire,” she said. “I always tell everyone it was a God thing. He put that desire in me, and then gave me the ability in a miraculous way. I learned it very quickly.” With a strong faith and what seemed to be a natural talent, La Batt started interpreting within six months of learning how to sign. “That’s not normal. It’s not me. I’m not that way. I’m not that smart at all,” she said. “But, He had a plan for me to do it.” La Batt has taught sign language over the years in both Texas and Kansas. She has instructed and interpreted for homeschool groups, co-ops, Upward Bound, continuing education, and has also done a variety of interpreting for various companies, medical doctors and even individual families. On Sundays, La Batt can be found serving
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as the interpreter for the hearing impaired members of the congregation at First Baptist Church in Mount Pleasant. “I have always seen it more as my ministry then as my job, so it was not something I felt I could make as my career,” she said. While she did not choose to become a professional sign language instructor, La Batt has used her talents to assist a large number of people over the years, including her fellow co-worker. Williams failed her first hearing test at age 10 and has spent her entire life dealing with her hearing impairment. “I begged my mom not to make me get hearing aids because I knew how kids would make fun of me,” Williams said. Instead, she adapted to her hearing loss by learning to read both lips and body language. A few years ago, her husband’s job carried the family to West Texas, and Williams got her first opportunity to learn sign language
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when she attended a college for the deaf. “I knew I had a hearing problem, but I never admitted it, because you’re not going to be deaf in a hearing world,” said Williams. “It was like my first language at 26 years-old, but it was like I found a whole new world. If I really could I would just turn off my voice and just use my hands, but I grew up in a hearing world, and my family never signed with me.” Both Williams and La Batt said that people should consider learning basic sign language and that it should be offered as a second language. “Anyone can go deaf,” said Williams. “You could grow up hearing and go deaf from sickness, an accident, or anything.” La Batt who is an advocate for signing added, “A deaf person can’t learn to hear, so if I’m not willing to learn their language there is no communication, and the deaf world can be very quiet because really no one wants to make the effort to communicate.”
May 7, 2019
The Eagle
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Northeast Texas Community College
FEATURE
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Above, Morris works with a student during her early teaching career at NTCC. Right, Morris lectures to a number of students during one of her classes not long after she joined NTCC. Throughout her 32 years at the college, Morris has been the director of the Academic Skills Center, director of Culinary Arts, Director of Developmental Education, math professor, and GED instructor.
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Retirement brings a season of change after 32 years By Tonya Hammonds and Elisabeth Lively Staff Writer and Layout and Design Editor In a few weeks, as Marguerite Morris begins packing up her office after 32 years of working at Northeast Texas Community College, she will remove a small plaque from her wall that reads, “To Teach is to Touch a Life Forever.” Morris, who has followed these simple words throughout her teaching career, said it is going to be hard to say goodbye to the place that she calls her “home away from home.” “This has been an incredible place to work, not only with the wonderful people that I have gotten to know, but it has also been a place that I could grow professionally in a way I never thought would happen, or that I would stay here this long,” Morris said. “So for anybody who stays here this long, it is difficult to leave. It’s sad because as I have said, I have spent 45 percent of my years of living here at this campus. “That is a lot of time and because I only had eight other years of teaching, I have spent 80 percent of my teaching career here at NTCC. When I put all that into perspective, no wonder I had such a hard time deciding to retire. Because this is like home.” As the director of Developmental Education and math instructor, Morris has influenced the lives of countless students as they passed through her classrooms over the years.
Her favorite quote about teaching says, “Your students may not remember what you taught them, but they will never forget how you treated them.” “I think that it is just who I am,” Morris said. “I have always had the philosophy that I don’t just teach math, but I teach students. And when you look at it from that perspective, then it changes how you teach because it is about individual students.” Whether she is teaching freshman just out of high school or working adults, Morris always leaves a lasting impression on her students’ lives. “She is an awesome teacher,” NTCC student Mary Sparks said. “She really cares about her students, and she takes the time to make sure they understand what they’re doing.” Sparks said she realized the lengths Morris would go to in order to make sure that her students understood a lesson when she showed up in class with a small toaster oven and the ingredients to bake banana nut bread. “One day she was doing this math lesson about fractions,” Sparks said. “It was so funny. She came up and baked banana bread for us using fractions right in front of the class.” NTCC President Dr. Ron Clinton said Morris has left a lasting impression on the entire campus community. “Ms. Morris has been one of our most dedicated faculty members at NTCC. She has such a nurturing disposition, always putting her students first and supporting them all the way,” Clinton said. “We
are so grateful for her 32-year tenure at the college.” Over the years, Morris has opened her home to students, many of them international athletes, for Friday night home cooked meals. She has taken many of her students to church with her and more importantly spent time with them so she could understand their lives better. “She has touched the lives of countless students here at Northeast; often so quietly that no one will ever know who or how many,” NTCC Vice President for Instruction Kevin Rose said. “I have heard of so many stories, and witnessed others firsthand, of how Marguerite has taken students right where they were and moved them forward in such positive ways, ways that not only include their academic efforts, but in their lives as a whole. “We are grateful to have had her serve our students for the last 32 years, and I look forward to seeing how she will use her servant-heart in the years to come.” Along with her dedication to teaching, Morris is also defined by her strong Christian faith. Saying that “life comes in seasons,” Morris has journeyed through many different phases as she has made her way through life. Her teaching path began her junior year of high school when she attended a Christian conference and learned that she could use her faith to help others. She set out her first year of college to become a social worker, and needing a minor, settled on home economics, mostly because it was also
her friend’s major. “I believe God leads us where he wants us to be. I made good grades with the other courses I was taking,” Morris said. “But when I got into the home economic classes I felt like I had found my niche. That was where I belonged. And the courses, I mean they weren’t easy, but they were so interesting, and I loved them and made really good grades in them. I just felt like that was God’s affirmation ‘this is what I want you to do.’” After graduating from East Texas State University in 1970, Morris packed up her bags and headed out west to live with her aunt and uncle in Tucson, Arizona. During her time there, she received a master’s degree in education from The University of Arizona and began that season of her teaching career. After teaching home economics for five years in Arizona, Morris moved back to East Texas and spent time as a stay-at-home mom for a while before teaching two years of home economics and one year of kindergarten at Paul Pewitt. In 1987, the opportunity to join NTCC as a GED instructor came about, and Morris moved into yet another season of life changes. Within two years of joining NTCC, Morris became the director of the academic skills center, a title she held for more than 25 years. She also served as the first director of NTCC’s Culinary Arts program. Morris said each of these opportunities has helped move her toward
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Morris and former NTCC student Aji Nijie look over a recipe in Morris’ kitchen. Over the years, Morris has invited students and their friends to her home on Friday evenings to cook and eat dinner together. the next stage of her life. “I think that every job that I have ever had has prepared me for the next job that I am to do,” she said. As her retirement nears, Morris is seeking God’s leadership as she journeys toward the next phase of her life. She recently received a call from Hope Ministries, a charitable organization for young women, who Morris said have “made some bad choices in life.” The group was looking for a tutor to
teach the women life skills in everything from budgeting to sewing and cooking, just some of those things that she’s been preparing to do all these years. “I have decided that the rest of my years that I have to live, I want to do what God wants me to do,” she said. “ I believe that God brought me to this college, and He has blessed me while I have been here. I want to find other places and avenues to serve Him.”
Student art exhibit showcases variety of artistic talent By Tonya Hammonds Staff Writer
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| tahj mcrae
Chad Kennedy and Rachel Thomas admire their fellow student’s artwork during the recent reception for the NTCC Student Art Show.
The Northeast Texas Community College Art Department recently held its annual Student Art Show in the Whatley Center foyer. This year, the music and theatre departments joined in with live music and dramatic readings. The show included a variety of art in the form of photography, drawings, ceramics, digital art, and paintings. The art was judged by Dr. Shirley Clay, a member of the Mt. Pleasant Art Society and retired NTCC faculty. Professor Debbie Strong, division chair for Creative and Performing Arts, said the show was a great success. “I am always excited to see it all come together, wait for the judge’s results, and share student creativity with our NTCC family and the community,” she said. Winners include: in photography, first place, “Hanging Out on a Branch” by Bianca Arzola, second place, “Summer Grass with Dew Drops” by Serenity Mitchell, third place, “New Perspective” by Rachel Thomas. Honorable Mentions went to “Early in the Morning” by Joshua Arciga and “Blown Away” by Carlee Bradley.
In digital art, first place, Kate de la Rosa for her fashion magazine cover, second place, Fernando Sanchez for “Neon Night” surreal landscape, Third place, Sierra Mitchell for “The Lone Star State” postcard. In ceramics, first place, Olivia Griffin, second place, Peggy Cross, and third place, Fernando Sanchez. Fernando Sanchez, Shontasmon Green and Olivia Griffin also received Honorable Mentions. In graphite drawing, first place, “Fall of the Queen” by Amelia Smoak, second place, “My Bible and Some Other Significant Stuff” by Wendy Harbour and third place, “Necessities” by Tristan Zuniga. In color drawings, first place, “Game Day Focus” by Wendy Harbor, second place, “Sunrise Silhouette” by Amelia Smoak, third place, “Reflections” by Tyler Duenkel. Honorable Mention, “Gradient Expression” by Tyler Duenkel. In acrylic paintings, first place, “An Autumn Frost” by Emma Wolfe, second place, “Odette” by Tristan Zuniga, third place, “Dear Margaret” by Serenity Mitchell. Honorable Mention, “City” by Wendy Harbour and “Self-portrait” by Joel Herrera. In watercolor, an Honorable Mention went to “Dance” by Amelia Smoak.
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The Eagle
Northeast Texas Community College
May 7, 2019
OPINION
Eagle Eye WOULD YOU DO THE 30-DAY SOCIAL MEDIA CHALLENGE? Cartoon by Kachina Swafford
“I’ve done it before. I’m cool with it. For me, social media is just a place to share. I don’t really get on it like that. You’ve got more time in life, you can experience more things and get out there in the world more instead of being on Facebook watching what people say all the time.” - Tedarion Johnson
“No, because there’s too much time where I’m waiting around, and I use social media to kill time.” - Daisy Banda
“I just actually did a social media fast for two and a half weeks and it had a really positive impact, I’ve got to say. I had a lot of free time and I focused on school a lot more. But I don’t think I would do one again right now, maybe in a few weeks or so.” - Olivia Griffin
“Honestly, no. Because I’m too addicted to my phone. Because it’s the everyday of social life, like when I get on Twitter and what not.” - Victor Villarreal
“Yes, to make my own personality better with some people, with my society and with me.” - Brayan Bautista
Got an opinion? You can be a guest writer for The Eagle Share it with us at ntcceagleeditors@gmail.com
The Eagle Eagle Adviser Mandy Smith
Assistant Adviser Daniel Sanchez
Entertainment Editor Emma Yeager
Layout/Design Editor Elisabeth Lively
Photo Editor Tahj McRae
Copy Editor Joelle Weatherford
Status update: on break By Shanequa Fleming Staff Writer I did my research on the 30 days without social media challenge, and the stories I heard from the people who did it really opened up my mind to things I never realized. Social media isn’t fun anymore. It’s not what it used to be, now it’s more of a popularity contest or an attention seeking outlet for a lot of people. For some, they just vent their frustrations or put every moment of living on their page for the world to see. Now, I know you’re probably thinking, “It’s their page so they’re free to do as they please,” and you are absolutely correct. But is this what the world has come to? You’re practically forcing people into your life. Do people not believe in privacy or morals anymore? I have a Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat. I get on Facebook to keep in touch with family, but because of this, I can’t do or post certain things out of respect for certain family members. Plus I don’t really need or want them in my business. I used to get on Instagram to watch interesting videos, rarely posting any pictures. But now it’s all about who can get the most likes and it doesn’t interest me anymore. Twitter was my go-to social media for
awhile, until I realized how negative it is. I even tried to switch up my followers so I could have a different timeline, but it still wasn’t enough. I had to get off completely. Now, Snapchat was a tough one to let go of. It was a way of contacting and keeping up with my out-of-state friends, and was something to do when I was bored. I didn’t think it would be hard to let go of social media, but when you only have two to three people you talk to on a weekly basis, there’s not much else to do. When I first deleted all my social networks, I spent the first week unlocking my phone, just to relock it and put it back in my pocket. After a week, however, I got use to it. I never really had notifications coming to my phone since I don’t talk to a lot of people, so I was already use to it for the most part. But I now see that the extra bit of time I was spending on my phone truly was being wasted. When I’m not on my phone, I can actually look at what’s around me and think about other things. Now I actually want to interact with people face-to-face instead of through a screen. Not being on social media anymore means I’m no longer receiving any negativity or ignorance into my heart. I now have space in my mind for more creative thoughts. I can focus on my responsibilities better and I’m not so isolated all the time. Living without social media became more than just a challenge, it helped shape my lifestyle for the better.
Can’t stop the K-Pop train By Joelle Weatherford Copy Editor Most people have heard of BTS by now, even my boyfriend’s great aunt knows who they are. However, it wasn’t always like that. I first found the South Korean boy band in 2016. My twin sister got on the K-Pop train first with SHINee, one of the older groups in the industry. She would play their music around the house or in the car and even learned a little bit of the dance for one of their more popular songs, Lucifer. I, on the other hand, didn’t get the big deal. One day while we were driving to the library (we shared a car at the time), I asked if we could listen to something other than Korean music. She proceeded to play Icelandic music instead. It wasn’t until she showed me the members of SHINee that I began to get it. These boys were beautiful. One in particular, Minho, really caught my eye. He became what is called my bias or favorite member. I was obsessed. I started watching YouTube videos about him, then stumbled into reaction videos of other K-Pop groups. It was a rabbit hole. I found a few songs that I liked by the group EXO and began looking into them. I even picked a new bias. If you don’t know, EXO songs have some of the best dances in all of K-Pop, second only to Seventeen. I was into EXO for about a week, then I found BTS.
They had just released their new song Dope, which to this day is still one of my favorites. After watching the music video about 10 times I was hooked. I picked my favorite, J-Hope, because of that music video. I didn’t like his part in the video at all. I didn’t like his rap, I didn’t like his dance, I didn’t even like his outfit. But I did like his smile, and that’s what sold me. It wasn’t until the release of their album Wings that they received a lot of attention in America. Shortly afterward, they received the Billboard Top Social Artist Award in 2017 and returned in 2018 to actually perform. Now don’t get me wrong, I like the fact that they are getting so much love these days. Yet, it just feels like people don’t actually know anything about them. They only know the new stuff. Luckily, the members are still the same goofy guys they’ve always been, so it’s easy to get sucked in. If you’re looking to get into BTS, go ahead. Just don’t get stuck on the new stuff. Go back in time to when RM was still Rap Monster and wore sunglasses at all times. Go back to when Jungkook was a rapper, and Jimin showed off his abs. Back when Jin was a fluff just trying to look cool. And most importantly, watch Rookie King and the old Bangtan Bombs. Those will show you each member’s personality, making it easier to fall in love with these talented guys. And if BTS isn’t your cup of tea, then there are so many more amazing groups to choose from. I always say, anyone can like K-Pop, they just have to find the right group. There’s a lot of great music out there just waiting to be heard.
Staff Writers Kate De la Rosa, Tonya Hammonds, Samuel Sandate, Chad Kennedy, Elisabeth Samel, Kachina Swafford, Miranda Nichols, Shanequa Fleming, Halley Goodwin, Adriana Elizondo, Tristan Zuniga and Hannah Dove-Mercer The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the opinions of the faculty adviser or the administration of the college. Questions? Comments? Email Mandy Smith at msmith@ntcc.edu or visit our website at www.ntcceagleonline.com
Check out the digital issue at ntcceagleonline.com
May 7, 2019
The Eagle
Northeast Texas Community College
Page 9
NEWS
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Ag students from left, Casey Oney, Madison Blood, Jan Shirley, Breanna White and René McCracken, Ag Club Adviser.
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Retirees from left, Dr. Brenda Deming, Professor of Biology; Richard Zylks, Professor of Medical Laboratory Technology; Marguerite Morris, Professor and Director of Development Education and Dr. Ron Clinton. Retiring, but not pictured, is Freda Duncan, Community Resource Center Coordinator.
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Honors students from left, Madison Blood, Jacob Lambie, Olivia Griffin, Miguel Paco, Verania Leyva, Daniel Landaverde and Rhylie Anderson.
Board recognizes faculty and students Special to The Eagle The Northeast Texas Community College Board of Trustees met for their regular April meeting on Tuesday, April 30. The meeting started off by honoring four retiring employees and acknowledging the outstanding accomplishments of four campus student groups. Dr. Ron Clinton, NTCC President, presented retirement gifts (pictured) to Dr. Brenda Deming, Professor of Biology; Richard Zylks, Professor of Medical Laboratory Technology; and Marguerite Morris, Professor and Director of Development Education. Retiring, but not pictured, is Freda Duncan, Community Resource Center Coordinator. The board then heard a presentation from Dr. Kevin Rose, NTCC Vice President
for Instruction, in which he recognized several student groups for their hard work and achievements throughout the 2018-2019 academic year. “We are so proud of our students and all that they have accomplished this year. These folks have truly taken full advantage of their NTCC experience and it has paid off,” Rose said. Representing the groups honored were as follows: Agriculture: Pictured (from left): Casey Oney, Madison Blood, Jan Shirley, Breanna White, and René McCracken (Ag Club Advisor). Journalism/The Eagle newspaper: Pictured (from left): Elisabeth Lively, Daniel Sanchez (Advisor), Halley Goodwin, Elisabeth Samel, Tahj McRae, Joelle Weatherford, Adriana Elizondo, Emma Yeager, Tonya Hammonds, and
Mandy Smith (Advisor). Honors Northeast: Pictured (from left): Madison Blood, Jacob Lambie, Olivia Griffin, Miguel Paco, Daniel Landaverde, Verania Leyva, and Rhylie Anderson. Phi Theta Kappa, Alpha Mu Chi Chapter (from left): Dr. Melissa Fulgham (Advisor), Madison Blood, Jan Shirley, Olivia Griffin, Tonya Hammonds, Rhylie Anderson, Hannah Fouche, and Jacob Lambie. In action items, the board approved a new strategic plan, Destination 2025. Dr. Clinton said that the college will begin work to operationalize the plan and that the development of new Key Performance Indicators will follow soon. The board also released an Academic Advisor from their contract and approved new employee contracts for the 2019-2020 academic year.
Finals Week Schedule
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The Eagle staff from left, Elisabeth Lively, assistant adviser Daniel Sanchez, Halley Goodwin, Elisabeth Samel, Tahj McRae, Joelle Weatherford, Adriana Elizondo, Emma Yeager, Tonya Hammonds and adviser Mandy Smith.
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Phi Theta Kappa members from left, Dr. Melissa Fulgham, PTK Adviser, Madison Blood, Jan Shirley, Olivia Griffin, Tonya Hammonds, Rhylie Anderson, Hannah Fouche, and Jacob Lambie.
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The Eagle
Northeast Texas Community College
May 7, 2019
SPORTS
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Above: Last fall, Becky Cawkwell flew from England to Texas to visit her son. Left: Cawkwell races toward the ball in a recent game against the Korean Sports Academy.
Crossing the ‘pond’ in pursuit of a dream staff photo
By Emma Yeager Entertainment Editor Butterflies fluttered in Jake Cawkwell’s stomach and his heartbeat quickened as he landed at DFW airport. Stepping out of the plane and taking in a deep breath of the humid, Texas air, he weaved through the chaotic crowds, embarking on the opportunity of a lifetime. “I just wanted to be adventurous,” Cawkwell said. “I could’ve gone to a university, but I just wanted to be a little different.” Energetic and ambitious, Cawkwell, 19, has traveled to France, Italy, Austria and Egypt, but he chose American soil to pursue his passion. Growing up in Stafford, England, he was heavily involved in athletics in school. By the age of nine, he began to follow his dream of playing competitive “football.” With a firefighter father and a police officer “mum,” his parents nurtured him to become a man who is considerate of others, stays positive when facing mountain-like obstacles and values his physical wellbeing. Most of his days were spent outside collecting memories with his brother and “mates,” sharing a laugh and playing soccer until the sun went down. “There isn’t anything I would change about the way I was raised,” Cawkwell said. Supportive of his son’s zeal to chase his athletic dream, his father, Pat Cawkwell, actually transformed their back garden into a soccer field for Cawkwell and his brother.
Handcrafted with his dad’s love and care, the soccer field would become a defining hallmark of Cawkwell’s childhood. “Through setbacks and success, it has been and is a pleasure watching him grow and develop in his life journey,” his dad said. Throughout his youth, Cawkwell’s mother, Becky, also encouraged him to be grateful for both his family and his athleticism. His mom would often remind him that without his physical abilities, he might not have been as successful in soccer, which has kept him motivated toward his goal. “She’s a strong woman who has been very supportive and influential,” Cawkwell said. Like Harry Potter and Ron Weasley, Cawkwell’s older brother, Thomas, has been his right hand man, most trusted confidant and comrade in arms. While Cawkwell said he has a tendency to make rushed decisions, his brother helps him slow down and think about the consequences of his choices. Only 13 months apart, Thomas and Jake were destined to be adventure buddies from the moment the two could walk and make trouble. As they grew older, they went on skiing holidays, hosted parties and won two school soccer cups together. Cawkwell said that out of all the people in the world, his brother knows him better than anyone else. “My brother definitely helped me grow as a person and become more mature,” Cawkwell said. “We’ve experienced everything
together.” Cawkwell has always been eager to travel far and wide in pursuit of his passion. When he was 16, he took the hour-long trip on the train every Monday and Friday to play for a school in Birmingham. This was his first taste of independence and strengthened his love for the sport. “It runs through my blood now,” Cawkwell said. “I’ll take every opportunity to play and continue it as a career.” In 2017, Cawkwell was invited to participate in one of the largest soccer tournaments in the nation, the Dallas Cup. Familiar with the Dallas area and having friends there, he was thrilled to join Northeast Texas Community College’s soccer team, the Eagles, as a center midfielder in fall 2018. “I was only too proud to see him achieve his dream in moving to the USA to progress his passion,” his dad said. “Any thoughts of loss and missing my son are massively counter-balanced with the pride and respect for his success and determination to pursue his chosen path.” While Mount Pleasant and the rural campus were not exactly what he anticipated, Cawkwell said he has enjoyed getting to know his fellow students, teammates and professors. Almost anyone on campus who has met him will say he is a diligent and engaging individual with a thirst for knowledge. “Jake is an incredibly hardworking, honest friend and teammate,” Matt Gains, who played at NTCC with
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Cawkwell last fall, said. “He’s always going the extra mile to make sure he and others around him achieve the best possible.” Soccer is not Cawkwell’s only passion, however. He enjoys running, music, and films along with caring deeply for people, animals, and the environment. “I think the world is beautiful as it is, and I just feel like why would anyone want to destroy what we’ve got,” he said. Cawkwell plans on playing soccer for a team in Temple this summer. In the possibility that becoming a pro soccer player does not work in his favor, he would like to teach physical education, or become a personal trainer or coach. If he does get to coach young athletes one day, he would advise them to make sure that the strengths they have stand out so that people will recognize their individual talent. As a thrill seeker, he wants to seize each opportunity that life hands him. Though he is thankful that his parents didn’t force soccer on him when he was younger, he wishes that he had tossed the X-Box controller aside and realized his passion earlier. “I wish I could’ve seen the world in the perspective I do now,” he said. While Cawkwell is not one to complain, life has not always been a breeze. His pursuit of a collegiate soccer career has given him a few struggles to overcome, but it also taught him to never give up. With a work hard play hard attitude, he remains determined not to allow
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Cawkwell enjoys time with his brother, Thomas, left, and his dad, Pat, center, by playing a game of Rugby back home. anything to defeat his dream. While leaving home was exciting, it has also taken its toll over time. When he first ventured onto the NTCC campus, Cawkwell said he looked forward to meeting new people and starting a new life. After a while, however, he said the newness wore off and reality began to sink in. Not only did he have to focus on soccer, but he also had to buckle down and concentrate on his studies. At times, it was difficult and lonely, but he kept his mind fixed on his mission. “It’s not a holiday as you thought it was going to be when you first got here,” Cawkwell said. “If you don’t do your academics, you ain’t going to play.” Even though he is 4,541 miles away from home, Cawkwell and his family are ecstatic to see where life
takes him. Thankfully, he is able keep in contact with his brother and parents through social media, WhatsApp and Facetime. One of the hardest companions to leave, however, was his cocker spaniel, Henry. He and his canine friend, affectionately called “H-Dog,” have shared a brotherly bond for many years. Despite missing his family and friends, Cawkwell said since collegiate sports is not taken as seriously back home, he wants to see if he has a chance here in the states. This British lad could not bear the idea of just going through life having never tried. “I don’t think it’s about where home is, but it is about the people who I am with,” Cawkwell said.
NTCC soccer plays international team
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The NTCC Mens soccer team recently played a scrimmage match against the Korean Sports Academy. The Eagles soccer team made it to the NJCAA National Tournament last fall for the first time since 2014. The soccer team will begin its regular play again this coming fall.
FOLLOW THE EAGLES AT NTCCEAGLES.COM
May 7, 2019
The Eagle
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SPORTS
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The Eagle softball team stands for the national anthem before starting the home game in a recent match against Angelina College. The team’s season ended with a split series.
Softball ends season, splits double header By Justin Hargrove NTCC Assistant Athletic Director
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Eagle softball player Kara Carter pitches the ball in a recent game against Trinity Valley.
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After the recent rains forced several days of postponement, the Northeast Texas Community College Eagle softball team traveled to Paris Junior College for the final series of the season. Paris Junior College would take down the Eagles in game one by a score of 4-1, and the Eagles would bounce back in game two with a 4-2 win to end the season on a positive note. In game one of the day, Jamie Franks (Hardin Simmons University) would get the start in her final appearance as an Eagle. Franks allowed four runs on six hits over six innings, finishing with no walks and six strikeouts on the day. NTCC would score first in the fourth inning when Raylei Merrell singled to center to score Ramzi Smith (East Texas Baptist University) who reach base on an error to lead off the inning. The lead would be short lived
as PJC scored in the fifth to tie the game at 1-1, and would score three more runs in the sixth to seal the 4-1 win over NTCC. Merrell, Macee Hollins, Shelby Baker (Hardin Simmons University), and Smith each had hits to lead the Eagles offense in game one. In game two action, the Eagles would score first to get things going in the final game of the season. Blakelea Nettles would single and then use her speed to steal second and third bases allowing her to score on a Ramzi Smith ground out to second. With a 1-0 lead, Kara Carter tool to the circle for the Eagles. Carter would pitch a complete game to earn the win in her final start for NTCC, striking out 10 on the day while allowing just two runs on four hits. After PJC tied things up at 1-1 in the third inning, NTCC would reclaim the lead when Smith was hit by a pitch to start the inning and later scored on when Raylei Merrell was hit by a pitch with bases loaded.
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Paris tied the game again at 2-2 in the bottom of the fifth, but the Eagles would shut them down for the rest of the game. In the sixth inning, Nettles would again reach base and use her speed to score the second run of the day for her. Smith would follow up two batters later with a solo home run to give NTCC a 4-2 lead. The Eagles had eight hits in game two. Smith and Nettles both had two hits and scored two runs each to lead the way for NTCC. The Eagles had seven sophomores who finished up at NTCC this spring and will be heading to four-year colleges in the fall. Those players include Shelby Baker (Carrollton, Texas / Hardin Simmons University), Korbyn Bassett (Palestine, Texas), Kara Carter (White Oak, Texas), Lauren Chapa (Waller, Texas), Jamie Franks (Arlington, Texas / Hardin Simmons University), Blakelea Nettles (Conroe, Texas), and Ramzi Smith (Texarkana, Texas / East Texas Baptist University).
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A bronc rider from the rodeo team holds on during a practice session at the NTCC rodeo arena.
Cody Cleveland gets ready for a pitch to come across the plate in The Eagles recent game against Panola College.
Special to The Eagle
By Justin Hargrove NTCC Assistant Athletic Director
Rodeo team falls short in NIRA final standings The Northeast Texas Community College men’s and women’s rodeo team competed in their last two rodeos of the season in April with trips to Hill College and Wharton County Junior College. The teams had to battle through the rain and mud during the Hill College event as storms rolled into Central Texas. Culver Roberts was able to bring home an eighth place finish in Team Roping to lead the way for the Eagles. The NTCC rodeo team concluded their 2018-2019 regular season with their trip to Wharton. NTCC competes in the Southern region of the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association along with Hill College, Louisiana Tech University, Louisiana State University-Alexandria, McNeese State University, Panola Junior College, Sam Houston State University, Southwest Texas Junior College, Stephen F. Austin University,
Texas A&M University, Texas A&M University-Commerce, Texas A&M University-Kingsville, Trinity Valley Community College, and Wharton County Junior College. For the final NIRA Southern Region standings, the Eagles had several team members on the list. Zachary McPherson finished ranked 10th in Saddle Bronc, Ty Eason ranked sixth in Tie Down Roping, and Slate Wiseman finished 20th in Steer wrestling. In Team Roping, Header, Cooper Christophersen ranked 20th and Ty Eason finished 27th. Team Roping, Heeler, had three Eagles ranked; Culver Roberts finished 13th, Hayden White 19th, and Dalton Barnes 27th. For the ladies team, Sassie Thompson finished 26th in Breakaway roping. Alissa O’Dell also finished 26th in Barrels. The teams will begin their 2019-2020 series of rodeos next fall.
The Eagles watch playoff hopes fade in 3-game loss
Northeast Texas Community College traveled to Lufkin to take on Angelina College in games two and three of the series against the Roadrunners. Angelina would down NTCC 5-0 in game one of the day and defeated the Eagles 12-2 in game two. Chandler Mauldin was on the hill for NTCC to start game one. Mauldin surrendered five runs on nine hits over four and a third innings, striking out five. Garrett Chappell threw one and two-thirds innings out of the bullpen. Angelina kept the Eagles hitters at bay, not allowing any hits and striking out four batters while walking four on the day. In game two action, NTCC lost 12-2 to the Roadrunners. Tyler Navarro was on the mound for the Eagles. Navarro surrendered five runs on seven hits over two and twothirds innings, striking out one and walking one. NTCC would keep Angelina off the board in the first inning, however the Roadrunners would score two runs in the second, three runs
in the third, four runs in the fourth and three more runs in the fifth inning to put the Eagles away. NTCC got on the board in the 5th inning when Jake Chapman homered to lead off the inning. Jordan Martinez would follow that up with a walk and advanced to second on a wild pitch. Martinez would score when Jonathan Carrillo hit a triple to left center field. That would cut the lead to 9-2, but would not be enough to stay with Angelina. John Michael Russ, Chapman, and Carrillo provided the offense for the Eagles in game two. As the Eagles 2018-2019 season comes to a close, Coach Andy Morgan spoke about the struggles the team has faced this year. “It was a rough season,” Morgan said. “As a team we are very disappointed about how things went. We had more injuries than I have ever experienced in my coaching career. It was hard to get any consistency. That being said the guys did a tremendous job of competing And never quitting. When things were not going our way they stayed the course and just kept going. They brought everything they had every day. I’m very proud of this team and their resilience.”
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ENTERTAINMENT
By Elisabeth Lively Layout and Design Editor “Part of the journey is the end.” Well, this is one conclusion you will never forget. The last 11 years and 22 Marvel movies are one giant bedtime story, and Avengers: Endgame is the final chapter. The Marvel Cinematic Universe, based on various Marvel comic book series, began in 2008, with actor Robert Downey Jr.’s Iron Man. While Iron Man was the first MCU movie, the story of the Avengers begins with Steve Rogers, nearly 70 years earlier, in Captain America: The First Avenger. CNN reported that Endgame shattered the worldwide record for biggest opening night in cinematic history, grossing $156.7 million dollars. By the following Sunday, the film had made $1.2 billion dollars, breaking yet another global record, for the biggest opening weekend in history. It’s near impossible to describe the plot of this film without giving away even the tiniest of a spoiler. Don’t worry, I won’t spill the beans, but I will advise you to bring a box of tissues and a handful of confetti. After all, this is the endgame. Endgame takes place five years after Thanos’ snap erased half the life in the universe. Due to this great tragedy, the first hour of the film casually picks up on the lives of each character and how they were affected by Thanos’ actions. As dark as the world has become following the snap, there’s a good deal of lighthearted humor in Endgame to look forward to. The storyline of the film follows the remaining Avengers as they plot to capture Thanos’ Infinity Gauntlet and use it to snap the missing 50% back to life. Unlike the previous Avengers movies, this plan is more than just a roller coaster of ups and downs. It has corkscrews, loop de loops, and hard turns. I’m not saying that there is no other film that’s quite as awesome as Endgame, although it may be likely. However, there is literally no other film in existence that can compare to what Endgame brings to the table. The cinematography, the special effects, the plot, and even the end credits are spectacularly magical. Mundane words are nothing in the way of describing how extravagant this film is. If I were to break down this film to Ant-Man size, I would describe it as unconventional, exotic, mind-blowing and legendary. There were a number of scenes, more scenes than I have fingers, that literally took my breath away, either from shock, excitement or just unbelief. If you
thought Infinity War was a doozy, just you wait. There are some events and incidents that occurred in Endgame that nobody could have possibly predicted. It’s crazy! But, there are some things that will happen in Endgame that fans have been waiting on for years. And when you realize that many of these moments are straight from the comic books, the movie becomes so much cooler. But not all of these comic-accurate scenes are full of smiles. Every time you think the movie is over, something else comes up. Right when you think all is good, something goes wrong. But then it’s resolved and everything is perfect again. Then another tragedy happens. But then it’s all sunshine and rainbows again… until the darkness hits. It goes on and on like this throughout the entire movie. I guess the directors of the film, the Russo brothers, couldn’t decide on a theme, so they just went with all of them. Not only are there various themes, but there is also a variety of genres and plots. I don’t want to spoil anything, but Endgame takes on a few new ideas that have never before occurred in the MCU, and will leaving you thinking, “...Wait... What? Did that actually just happen?” If you have a good memory, you’ll recognize the dozens of references to former Marvel movies braided throughout the entire film, leaving you extremely nostalgic and ready to bingewatch the films all over again. But if you’re anything like Drax the Destroyer, then you can walk into the movie theatre and say, “Nothing goes over my head. My reflexes are too fast, and I would catch it.” Avengers: Endgame is three hours and two minutes long. I felt like I was sitting in the theatre for days, which was a good thing, because I didn’t want it to end. One of Captain America’s most repeated lines is, “I can do this all day.” But I, on the other hand, would have preferred a brief intermission for a bathroom break. Speaking of bathroom breaks, I
recommend going in the scene where Natasha is making and eating a PB&J sandwich. There is a point where she will engage in a conversation with Steve, but it’s nothing that you haven’t heard before. These scene is about one hour into the film. You will not have another chance to go after this point. But pee wisely; you don’t want to miss the Stan Lee cameo in the second hour of the film. There’s a whole lot of bitter and an equal amount of sweet that is squeezed into such a tiny time frame. To this day, my mind just can’t seem to comprehend what I watched, because it happened so quickly. Three hours is not enough. Word to the wise, stick around after the credits. For the first time in MCU history, neither a mid or post credit scene was included in the film. But the Russo brothers did add a little something special for all the devoted Marvel fans. After all was said and done, I only had one thing to say. “Mr. Stark, I don’t feel so good.” And while I hate to admit it, Tony Stark was right, after all. “Part of the journey is the end.”
Chronological order of Marvel films 1. Captain America: The First Avenger 2. Captain Marvel 3. Iron Man 4. The Incredible Hulk 5. Iron Man 2 6. Thor 7. The Avengers 8. Iron Man 3 9. Thor: The Dark World 10. Captain America: The Winter Soldier 11. Guardians of the Galaxy 12. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 13. Avengers: Age of Ultron 14. Ant-Man 15. Captain America: Civil War 16. Black Panther 17. Doctor Strange 18. Spider-Man: Homecoming 19. Thor: Ragnarok 20. Ant-Man and the Wasp 21. Avengers: Infinity War 22. Avengers: Endgame
‘Five Feet Apart’ offers insight into the power of touch By Emma Yeager Entertainment Editor Imagine having to remain five feet away from the one you love at all times. Imagine never being able to hug that person, or kiss him/her or even shake his/ her hand. For Stella (Haley Lu Richardson), Will (Cole Sprouse) and Po (Moises Arias), the characters
in the recent film Five Feet Apart, this is their tragic reality. As cystic fibrosis patients, the three friends live their lives surrounded by nurses, pill bottles and daily regimens in the confines of a stale hospital. Stella strives to be optimistic and gives Will and Po the strength to carry on during their mundane, frustrating day-to-day routines. Po and Stella have been best friends since
childhood, and yet, she’s never been able to hug him. Will is the boy she loves, and yet, she cannot even hold his hand. For someone whose primary way of showing love is touch, this movie shot me right in the heart. The thought of never being able to feel the arms of the one I love around me is nearly too much to handle. The thought of having to remain five feet from those I love is almost devastating. That’s no way to live. We were meant to be able to wrap our arms around one another in the good times and the bad times. My best friend and I went to see Five Feet Apart together, and while the two of us expected to shed many tears, we never expected for our hearts to be ripped out of our chest. As we sat down in the theater for the Friday matinée, we looked around and saw that we were the only ones
watching the movie. This solitude gave us the freedom to cry as loud as we wanted and cry loud we did. Although some people may be unfamiliar with cystic fibrosis, Five Feet Apart shines a light on the causes, cautions and concerns one must take when battling this disorder. While I am not completely clear on the science behind the illness, I remember when I was eight years old my cousin, who I had never met before, passed away after having fought with cystic fibrosis for 23 years. This intrigued me to study more on the disease and pay careful attention to the movie. As Stella and Will’s romance heated and the tears grew louder, I felt anxious trying to figure out who would survive and
who would not. While this film may not be everyone’s particular taste, the acting and storyline are superb. The tale of these three teenagers will touch you emotionally as you realize the power of physical touch and the way it strengthens our bonds. Without it, we would be a broken people, I think, because sometimes all you need is a hug. Touch is how we
communicate when all words fail and to be incapable of that would be devastating to the human race.