VOLUME 23 NUMBER 3 Nov. 13 - Nov. 27, 2012

I’ll Find A Way Or Make One

The PantherCAU election night watch party turns into big celebration

By Jasmine RodgersContributing Writer

Loud cheers erupted from the Bishop Cornelius Henderson Student Center multi-purpose room, as students celebrated President Obama’s re-election, at the Clark Atlanta Uni-versity Election Viewing Party, on Nov. 6. Student’s eyes were fixed on the screen, as they watched the headline on Fox News that read, “Obama Re-elected for Second Term.” Clark Atlanta University students were joined by students from other schools in the Atlanta University Center and they sat anx-iously watching CNN and ABC News on the projection screens in the BCHSC multipurpose room. During the four-hour-long event, stu-dents cheered and booed loudly as CNN pro-jected the candidates winning or losing states throughout the night. The vast majority of students in at-tendance were Obama supporters, and shouted loudly as CNN showed Obama winning the popular votes in some of their home states. Students especially cheered when it was projected that Obama had won New York, and other key states in the north, on the east coast.

News coverage was not just seen on the screens, but at the actual event as well. Chan-nel 2, Atlanta ‘s local news station, was live-streaming the event, while reporters from the

Atlanta Journal-Constitution took pictures and spoke to students about the election. CNN also showed highlights from the past year on the campaign trail, reminding viewers of past candidates, like Republican candidates Herman Cain, Newt Gingrich, and Rick Perry. Journalists Anderson Cooper and Chief National correspondent John King manned the touch screens as polls, and election results from battleground states came in throughout the night. Among the festivities and surprises of the night, was the in-house DJ, DJ P for Real, and host KJ Switched. DJ P for Real and KJ Switched created the same enthusiastic atmo-sphere as they had at homecoming earlier in the year. Throughout the night, DJ P for Real played new and old hits from 2 Chainz and Rick Ross, to Bell Div Voe, and Frankie Bev-erly and Maze, to which students danced the electric slide. Although students were anxious throughout the night, fraternities and sororities strolled and various refreshments from pizza, to pastries, and drinks were available to stu-dents, all of which made the event a party. Halfway through the program, a tal-ented singer and CAU student came on stage to sing the “Star Spangled Banner.” It was a moving performance, as students stood, and listened in silence to a song that couldn’t have

been more appropriate for the occasion. Taj Infinity, who also performed athomecoming, sang her song “Invincible.” She wore an American flag printed vest and expressed her support for President Obama during her performance. Another surprise came when Dr. Brown, who was out of town on business, skyped students. The whole room cheered as Dr. Brown greeted students, and gave an inspiring message. During Dr. Brown’s Skype session he told students that, “Whatever the outcome of this election is, the hard work that you do tomorrow, and how you live your life will determine how you change this world.” Dr. Brown’s support of the event was made clear on November 5th, when he decided to cancel classes on November 6th, for CAU students. Dr. Brown formally announced his decision in a school-wide email. In his email, Dr. Brown explained his decision to cancel classes, saying, “To sup-port the high level effort being expanded by our students and to facilitate the work which they have committed, I have decided to cancel classes for November 6, 2012.” After the party, students were scream-ing the President’s name and cheering as they walked down the promenade. Two girls in the CAU Suites were equally excited. One of the girls jokingly said, “I was worried about my loans the whole night,” while the other said, “I Continued on page 2

Photo from the AJCAtlanta University Center students cheer as they watch results come in on the big screen during an election night watch watch party in the Multipurpose Room.

Clark Atlanta University2

The Panther Nov. 13-Nov. 27 2012

Continued from Page 1was so nervous the entire time. I was so happy when he won.” The election viewing party provided a chance for CAU stu-dents to be excited together while

witnessing history. President Carlton Brown cancelled classes on election day to help ensure that students, faculty and staff could get out and vote.

Students gather for election night party

Morris Brown supporters optimistic about overcoming bankruptcy By Erika Benton-MartinContributing Writer Despite all of the school’s financial despairs, alumni from Morris Brown College continue to carry on the spirit and tradition of one of the nation’s oldest historically black colleges. The 131-year-old institution recently celebrated its homecoming. With its 36-member student body, the school’s celebration was smaller this year but high in spirits.The school’s athletic program was discontinued in 2003, therefore it no longer has a football team. Consequently, there was no homecoming game but the institution still hosted events like the coronation ball and a fundraising gala. Ronald Mellix, who graduated from Morris Brown in 1987, said that the homecoming still had “a good turnout.” In August, Morris Brown posted a statement on its website saying “Like many institutions that have been impacted by the current economic recession, Morris Brown College is experiencing financial challenges.” The institution formally filed for bankruptcy at the end of that month. “When people look at our past financial woes, which have been great, many supporters are not willing to step forward until they see tangible progress…however, there can be little progress if there is little financial support,” Dr. Stanley Pritchett, the current president said.The school’s financial problems have impacted various aspects of the institution. With such a small student body, only three majors are offered: general studies, business administration and organizational management and leadership. Classes are also offered online. Most of the school’s buildings are boarded up and are no longer in use. A number of its classes are held in the Hickman Student Center. The few students that utilize on-campus housing occupy Wilkes Hall. However, in the face of minimal enrollment, student organizations like the marching band, royal court and student government association are still thriving. With all of the hurdles the institution has encountered in the last few years, many wonder how the school has been able to maintain its student body. “Unlike a lot of people, I did my research before deciding to come to Morris Brown. The school just lacks financial accreditation not aca-demic accreditation, which many get misconstrued,” said junior, business administration major Tieraney Davis. Davis who began attending Morris Brown in 2010 says that she loves how family oriented the school is. The school also has “a really good business program and music department,” she said. Morris Brown has been struggling financially since the 2002 fi-nancial mismanagement scandal that took place while Dr. Dolores Cross served as president. Dr. Cross functioned as president from 1998 until 2002. During that period, Dr. Cross and the former financial aid director, Parvesh Singh, embezzled federal funds by applying for money on behalf of students without their knowledge or consent. The money was reported used to pay operating costs. Subsequently, Dr. Cross received five years of probation and one year of home confinement for her actions. Singh was given five years of probation and 18 months of home confinement. The school filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in September, which permits restructuring and gives federal protection to businesses unable to pay their debts. This protection also allotted the institution at least 120 days to reor-ganize and come up with a plan to ensure a steady flow of income. The funds would be used to begin repaying bond holders and others to whom it owes money, including faculty and staff members. Morris Brown lost its financial accreditation through the South-ern Association of Colleges and Schools as a result of years of fraud and debt accumulated under Dr. Cross and Singh. In turn, the school’s lack of accreditation prevents the college from getting federal funds to help compensate its mounting debt. The institution also lost funding from the United Negro College Fund, which gave the school $8 million a year. The school is seeking accreditation with the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools. But alumni remain optimistic about the situation. Mellix says that he and his wife, Norrisa Mellix, who also attended the institution, will “continue to give back.” Mellix and his son, who is also a graduate, still performs with the school’s band and frequently goes to mow the lawn at Morris Brown. Mrs. Mellix has even started her own project, Band for Morris Brown, which is dedicated to giving back to her alma mater. Some aren’t as optimistic as the Mellix family. Sidmel Estes’

grandfather was once the dean of Morris Brown. Her mother was a graduate of the institution and served as Miss Morris Brown. “I am very sad and don’t think MBC is going to survive. This is an African-American institution that we have allowed to die. Now, there were some management problems that led to this point, but we should not allow MBC to die. It’s part of our history and our heritage,” Estes said. According to reports by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the institution will soon have to reveal a reorganization plan including means for providing a steady flow of income. This is a part of the school’s re-cent bankruptcy filing. “I miss everything about campus. Everyone was so close that it felt like one big family,” said former student Antoin Thomas, who at-tended Morris Brown in 2006.Thomas, whose family members also attended the institution, says that he is considering coming back to finish his degree. “I would love to see the school open and thriving like it was in the past.” It has been reported that the school is in $30 million worth of debt. Of that $30 million, creditors are holding $13 million in bonds. “We are really challenged to increase our pool of supporters while trying to convince the public that while we cannot change our past, we can surely go in a positive direction with their help,” Dr. Pritchett said. In the meantime, the school has been taking up donations to pay off its debt. Donations can be made to the Morris Brown College Recov-ery Fund. Links for the fund can be found on the school’s website.

Top 10 Best (and Worst) Educated States and How They Voted

Ranked by percentage of residents 25 years old and older with college degree or more

% over 25with college degree

39.1% 1. Massachusetts Obama36.9% 2. Maryland Obama36.7% 3. Colorado Obama36.2% 4. Connecticut Obama35.4% 5. Vermont Obama35.3% 6. New Jersey Obama35.1% 7. Virginia Obama33.4% 8. New Hampshire Obama32.9% 9. New York Obama32.4% 10. Minnesota Obama

% over 25with college degree

18.5% 1. West Virginia Romney19.8% 2. Mississippi Romney20.3% 3. Arkansas Romney21.1% 4. Kentucky Romney21.1% 5. Louisiana Romney22.3% 6. Alabama Romney22.5% 7. Nevada Obama23.0% 8. Indiana Romney23.6% 9. Tennessee Romney23.8% 10. Oklahoma RomneyResearch statistics provided by FoxBusiness.com, based on education data from U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey. 24/7 Wall St. identified the U.S. states with the largest and smallest percentages of residents 25 or older with a college degree or more. http://www.foxbusiness.com/person-finance/2012/10/15/americas-best-and-worst-educated-states/.

Best Educated

Worst Educated

Clark Atlanta University

3The Panther Nov. 13-Nov. 27 2012

By Adam VannContributing Writer

Clark Atlanta University students are among the top 10 colleges that have the highest student loan debt. U.S. News & World Report did a study of colleges and universities on stu-dents graduating with the most and least debt. The average debt for class of 2011 graduates at Clark Atlanta is $47,066. The University ranks third on the list of colleges with most debt and first amongst HBCU’s. Ninety-four percent of stu-dents borrow money to attend the school. However, Howard University ranks sixth on the list of colleges or universities whose graduating students received the least amount of debt at an average of $15,080. Junior Shaunise Nelson, at Clark Atlanta, said, “I take out student loans and if I get more than I need I use it to-ward paying for books and rent.” She added that since the amounts of her loans are accumulating she is going to stop accepting them. “I’m going start trying to pay for tuition by working.” Some students are selective about accepting more loans than needed. “I refuse to take out any private loans to pay for tuition,” Shayla Nesbitt, junior at Clark Atlanta, said. She said her cousin, an alumna of the University, advised her not to take out private loans because she would have a big price to pay once she graduates. Nesbitt said she and her father work to pay for her tuition. Jennifer Thomas, alumna of How-ard University and adjunct professor at Clark Atlanta, said that part of the reason Howard may have less debt is that the

University has more support from gov-ernment funding. She added that a lot of the alumni donate money. She said that donating money helps tremendously with providing funds for students to pay for school. Christina King, financial adviser at Clark Atlanta, said, “Every college stu-dent has a different situation.” King said certain students may have high student loan debt because they use their refund check to fulfill other financial obligations during tough times. She added that some students may take out more than they need with refund checks. King said, “The University’s financial aid advisers suggest to students to take out only what’s needed.” While many state colleges and HBCU’s have less student debt, King said that the schools that have a lower debt rate have a lot of help from alumni, government and state funding. She add-ed that alumni who give back to schools help with the student loan debt because it provides more financial aid funding and institutional scholarships. She also said that the University is trying to get more alumni and employ-ees to give back. She recommended that students who look to go to school and students who already attend should prepare to pay for certain expenses by searching for jobs.“Students should be prepared by obtain-ing summer or part-time jobs to help lessen the load of college debt,” she said. One hundred percent of the stu-dents who graduated from Johnson C. Smith University in 2011 took out loans, according to the school. They left with an averae debt of $46,673.

Clark Atlanta University students rank first among HBCUs in debt from loans

University’s new advisement systempromises to reduce recurring errorsBy Janae AndrewsContributing Writer

Are you having trouble graduating on time because you didn’t take a class when you were supposed to?

Did you take a class you thought was in your curriculum but you later found out you didn’t need it and now it won’t count toward your graduation?

Help is on the way. Clark Atlanta University is implementing a new Web-based advisement system called DegreeWorks to that aims to prevent similar issues. Faculty and staff have been attending training sessions on how to use the software program since last year.

Under the previous advisement process, students would be assigned an adviser during New Student Orientation Week. The advisers assisted in planning their schedules, approving the courses and making adjustments and suggestions asto the student’s academic course loads. Students usually kept the advisers throughout their matriculation at the school.

Now new students will have what the administration considers a more effective way of being advised using a model wherein students will be advised their freshman and sophomore years by their First Year Seminar instructors or department faculty who are assigned to different majors. Many of the staff work in the Office Academic Success and Enrichment such as Susan Gibson, Jacquelynn DeBose, Carla Elder, Susan Gibson, Lonnie Douglas and Cynthia Cook.

Under the new process, students will first have an advisement session with their assigned adviser, which consists of reviewing and discussing their academic plans, being assisted with course selections and completing registration forms and academic advisement validation forms. Students will then receive their PIN and be able to register via BannerWeb.

Juniors and Senior will follow a similar process but with a few different aspects. A faculty member in their major department will advise upperclassmen. They will have an advisement conference with their adviser discussing plans and scheduling, seniors discussing graduations need and post graduations plans.

With the new online process, students will be able to be a little more independent with their academic scheduling. It is an online degree audit system that will help keep students on the path to completing their matriculation on time. Students will have an online version of their academic plan and the courses they should take each semester. When students have completed each class successfully for the semester a check and their grade will appear by the class. If students chose to take courses out of order, the system would highlight the classes they still need to take.

Degree Works is not only being used by Clark Atlanta University. Many schools havebeen using the online system as well like the University of Georgia and LaGuardia Community College in New York. Kennesaw State University has been using the system since Fall 2010.

Transfer students follow similar procedures, however they meet with their academic adviser for their department and develop a schedule based on previous courses from their previous school and credits transferred.

Over the years students have struggled with not being properly advised or having a lack of understanding of which classes they should be taking each semester.

Susan Gibson, director of Academic Enrichment and Success, said that the new system will help eliminate issues like these. “One purpose of the new system was to have a structure that would have students have someone

available to advise the at all times,” she added. While the system will help eliminate many previous problems student have

had with the advisement process, students still must take responsibly by comingprepared to be advised. For example, students should come to meetings with transcripts to give their adviser a better look at what they have already done. “How can I tell you (the student) what you should take if I do not know where you’ve been?” asked Gibson.

Degree Works is still in the testing phase and will begin by starting with a few departments first. Because of the large enrollment, Mass Media Arts students will be among the first to use the new system.

The 2011 Graduating Classes of Colleges with Highest Loan Debt

PERCENTAGENAME AVERAGE DEBT LOAN BORROWEDLa Sierra University (Calif.) $54,885 68.4Catawba College (N.C.) $50,193 59Clark Atlanta University $47,066 94Lawrence Tech University (Mich.) $46,677 74Johnson C. Smith (N.C.) $46,673 100Sacred Heart University (Conn.) $45,402 77Wheelock College (Mass.) $45,391 97.2Bennett College (N.C.) $45,275 94Delaware State University $45,098 90Franklin Pierce University (N.H.) $44,702 81

Clark Atlanta University4

The Panther Nov. 13-Nov. 27 2012

Jasmine RodgersContributing Writer

Exactly 1,000 white and purple balloons were released into the sky, as Clark Atlanta Univer-sity kicked off its “The Call to True Beauty Week.” On Oct. 22, a large group of faculty, students, and city of-ficials gathered to celebrate “The Call to True Beauty Memorial Balloon Lift.” The purpose of the event, which is sponsored by Avon and Verizon Wireless, was to promote the advocacy, education, and pre-vention campaign against dating and domestic violence. The week-long activity took place in October, which is also National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Clark Atlanta University President Dr. Carlton E. Brown opened the event with a speech directed toward CAU students and the world. During his speech, Dr. Brown addressed the importance of exercising moral responsibility in relationships. At one point, he urged those present to be “responsible men and women [when dealing with domestic violence].” Among the speakers at the

event was Lindsey Smith, who performed a and harrowing poem about the detrimental effects of domestic violence on women. Atlanta Police Chief George N. Turner also spoke. Chief Turner, who is also an alumnus of CAU, presented some shocking evidence concerning cases of domestic violence in Atlanta. He said that there were “more than 1,000 cases of [do-mestic] violence against women and some men this year.” He also emphasized the importance of “reaching out and looking out,” to victims and instances of domestic violence, namely women and children. In honor of the 1,000 victims of domestic violence in Atlanta this year, students, faculty, and guests gathered in the parking lot next to the Student Center, to release 1,000 eco-friendly bal-loons into the sky. Before the balloon lift, a moment of silence was observed to honor the victims. Small applause erupted as purple and white balloons slowly floated into the evening sky, in honor of victims, and beginning an important week of awareness at CAU.

True Call To Beauty Week: 1,000 balloon released to sky

BET co-founder critical of network’s new image since it was soldBy Jasmine RodgersContributing Writer

Sheila Johnson, co-founder of Black En-tertainment Television, says she regrets the direction that the network has taken since she sold it in 1999. According to an article on eurweb.com, while speaking at the “Conversations and Encounters” program, at the Carmel Art and Film Festival, in Carmel, Calif., Johnson gave her honest opinion about the present state of programming on B.E.T. Jonson said, “I think we squandered a really important cable network when it really could have been the voice of black America. We’re losing our voice as a race as a result.” Her comments not only addressed the network’s programming, but viewers as well. She said, “I’m really worried about what our young people are watching.” John-son didn’t offer any further comments about how to change the direction of the network. Despite Johnson’s comments, B.E.T has adopted the slogan, “We Got You,” and has

begun to incorporate more politically focused shows into its programming. This year, the network created a new politically oriented show called, Don’t Sleep! hosted by former CNN broadcast journalist, T.J Holmes. On the show, Holmes discusses political and social issues with different guests. B.E.T is responsible for some of the most popular shows on TV. Some of their most successful shows, like “The Game,” and “106 & Park: BET Top 10 Live” have gained mainstream recognition among more than just black audiences. Many critics have argued that B.E.T’s programming doesn’t reflect all aspects of African-American culture. Some have even accused the network of perpetuating stereo-types. For over 30 years, B.E.T has been one of the major sources of TV shows and films featuring all African-American casts, and spotlighting important issues in the African-American community. Other TV networks, like TV One, whose motto is, “Where Black Life Lives,”

have created shows that showcase African-American actors and issues, but offers more reality programming than scripted TV shows. Regardless of the controversy sur-rounding B.E.T’s programming, the network has made a significant impact on society. It has been the source of national and interna-tional entertainment, showcasing black actors and producers. While Johnson may be disappointed by the current programming on B.E.T, students are well aware of the boundaries that TV cre-ates. In an interview with Charlean Walls, a senior at CAU, she said that B.E.T’s program-ming does not accurately represent African-Americans. Instead, Walls believes that the issue comes down to “How you view yourself, rather than what the network presents about blacks.” She also addressed the issue of other races watching B.E.T. saying, “Although other races may see a show on B.E.T. and think cer-tain things about black people, it’s all fiction, it’s not real.”

Students get lessons on self defenseBy Staci HarpContributing Writer

You’re walking down the promenade at two o’clock in the morning by yourself. There is no one around to protect you on Clark Atlanta University’s open campus. Who knows what danger could be lurking around that dark corner as you approach Brawley Drive and Parsons Street? A figure twice your size suddenly appears out of nowhere with this crazy look in its eyes. What do you do? If you were on the second floor of the Thomas Cole Research Center The call to True Beauty week featured an event on self-defense techniques that evening, you would know. The event was interactive and well demonstrated. CAU students got the chance to watch films and see the group leaders’ demonstrate self-defense mechanisms. They were giving scenarios to the students letting them know that anything could happen and one should know how to protect themselves against harm. They demonstrated a female walking and getting ap-proached from behind by a male and what the female should do to escape the situation. They also stressed that students should be aware of their surroundings at all times. It does not matter how familiar one is with where they are, the unimaginable could very well happen. At the end of the day, the leaders want the students to be prepared. The leaders spoke to the

students about how one would never know how to defend them-selves if they were never taught. They showed two inspirational films on victims of domestic abuse and the impact it had on their life, physically and emotionally. The film “Too Young to Die” was produced by Fulton County and the other, “Telling Amy’s story” was distributed by Verizon Wireless. Interestingly enough, Verizon Wireless has an important role on why the week is called “The Call to True Beauty.” In 2010, Cheryl Sellaway of Verizon had a meeting with Harold Wat-kins of Avon discussing how they could help students at CAU. They knew that the students were pre-dominantly women and October is national domestic abuse awareness month so they dedicated a week at CAU to really focus on the issue. “The Call” came from the Verizon side and “True Beauty” from the Avon side. Thus the collaboration is “The Call to True Beauty.” More specifically on Tues-day’s event, Donna Brock says the event was “well attended which is a great thing. We got numbers to one hundred to one hundred and twenty kids. That is a great thing because we are able to empower people to feel more comfortable about self-defense.” “I think once your mind has been expanded, you cannot say that you do not know. I hope students will be empowered and I cannot say whether or not students will make good decisions but I would hope they do,” says Donna Brock on how she feels the event

has impacted the students. So if you find yourself walk-ing down the promenade by your-self at two a.m., be alert, cautious,

and prepared to defend yourself at all costs. Self-defense is okay to practice and one never knows when they may need it.

STUDENT LIFE Clark Atlanta University

5The Panther Nov. 13-Nov. 27 2012

Singer Monica Brown Headlines Homecoming concert

Concert headliner Monica Brown sings one of her hit songs during homecoming

Pheiffer Hall dominatesresidential hall step showBy Lauren MartinezContributing Writer The freshmen residence halls of Clark Atlanta University took the stage and stepped the night away at the annual Homecoming Residence Hall Step show. The event was hosted by CAU’s Terrence White and Delisha Huff, who kept the crowd entertained throughout the night. The show began with a groundbreaking performance by the GSL Gems, a local step team of metropolitan Atlanta. Grabbing the audience’s attention in their garments of green the men of Phieffer Hall kicked off the competition setting the mood for a night filled with surprises and excitement. Their performance was in-spired by “Toy Soldiers” and was well received by the audience. Next to take the stage was Holmes Hall, dazzling in its Egyptian attire, the ladies shimmered in black and gold with hands glazed in glitter. Merner Hall’s “Snow White” themed performance was quite enchanting as the seven dwarfs took to the stage and stepped with much enthusiasm

and pride. Later on, the CAU Suites took the stage with “ Aladdin” themed cos-tumes of blue and gold, giving the audiences a taste of the “Suite Life.” Lastly, The Beauties of Beckwith Hall captured the audiences atten-tion with their all black “Cat Woman” attire. The com-petition results are the follow-

By Taylor WilsonContributing Writer

The 2012 CAU homecoming was completed by the annual Greek step show. CAU student, K.J. Hunter hosted the show. Delta Sigma Chapter of Sigma Alpha Iota opened the show. The sorority consisted of five ladies whose musical talents wowed the crowd as they performed their personalized version of Be-yonce’s “Party” song. Following the ΣAI chapter came The AKA’s (Alpha Kappa Alpha), who performed a creative piece by calling themselves “Aka Bots.” Their show caused the crowd to go wild. Throughout the routine they created a human robot and had many add libs giving the audience information about their sorority and using Apple’s SiRi to score points with the judge’s.The ladies had all silver uniforms, makeup and hair, with a touch of their infamous pink and green. Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity created a theme of an All-Star basketball team winning the Olympic Gold Medal. A part that caught the eye of many people was when an Alpha was on top of the table while stepping and his brothers picked up the table with him still being on it. After the Alphas performed, K.J. gave the audience a little comical relief with his interlude called “The regular people.” This consisted of four people who are not affiliated with any Greek organization and formed a fake fraternity. In this piece the men introduced themselves using fake “line names” as they strolled together. The audience was then experienced a flashback to the 1960’s when African Americans petitioned for their rights and freedom in the Omega Psi Phi performance. Switching it up from their normal purple and gold they decided to wear all black. With the day’s festivities coming to an end, all that was on everyone’s mind was who the winner was. For the sororities the AKA’s took the trophy and for the fra-ternities the Alphas won, although originally Omega Psi Phi were announced as the winners.

ing: Pheiffer Hall dominated the competition and took home first place, Merner hall placed second and the CAU Suites in third place.

By Jasmine RodgersContributing Writer

Loud cheers erupted from Panther Stadium when singer Monica took the stage as the last act for Clark At-lanta University’s 25th Homecoming concert on Wednesday, October 10. Despite the chilly night air, students filled Panther Stadium to celebrate the first day of homecom-ing. After 13 acts and much an-ticipation, Monica came on to per-form some of her latest and greatest songs. She opened with some of her classic hits, “Angel of Mine,” and “So Gone,” as well as a song from her new album, “New Life.” Halfway through her performance, Monica took a moment to sing a trib-ute to Whitney Houston, one of her self-proclaimed musical idols. During the tribute, she per-formed three songs, which included some of Houston’s greatest hits, like “You Give Good Love,” and “I Have Nothing”. Monica’s backup singers also gave a solo performance in which they sang and danced to 90s hits, like Bell Div Voe’s “Poison.” Before Monica took the stage, singer Sammie performed three songs to an enthusiastic audience of CAU students. Some of the songs

he performed included the more recent, “Kiss Me Thru the Phone,” and his earlier song, “I Like It.” Some of the other performers of the night included a few new CAU rappers, singers, and songwriters. One of the first singers was

CAU student Chakara Taylor, who sang her love ballad, “Love Affair.” Another CAU student, Damon Harris took the stage to perform a couple of his raps, accompanied by DJ P For Real. CAU student and singer, songwriter Lyric Wright also performed a medley of raps, and love songs. Wright’s act ended to much deserved applause, and seemed to be a favorite act students. Another singer, Taj Infinity also gave an electrified performance. Her backup danc-ers were perfectly synchronized as she sang her upbeat pop song, “Invincible.” The act was packed with energy, and was exciting to watch. The show’s hosts, CAU alumnus Simone Kennedy, and KJ Switch kept the excitement level up throughout the night, along with the DJs, who played a great mix of music. Overall, the Homecoming con-cert seemed to live up to many student’s

standards. It was a night filled with new raw talent, and award-winning talent. In the words of a group of CAU girls leaving Panther Stadium, “It was so much fun!”

Alphas, AKA’s win Greek step show

Phieffer Hall celebrates its first place win backstage.

A&EClark Atlanta University6

The Panther Nov. 13-Nov. 27 2012

By Sequoyah ArmourManaging Editor

The unique blend of live instruments that are better described as post rock elec-tronic music comes from the four-member group Sonmi. This band’s sound matches no other group in the new millennium with its edgy tunes that keeps the audience energized. “We make our own rules and our own sound,” Sonmi said.The band, whose name is derived from the character “Sonmi” in David Mitchell’s book “Cloud Atlas” wants to point out the ironies and complexities around the world. Each member, David, Nigel, Michael and Robert bring a different intensity to the group dur-ing their live performances. Their improv sessions and collective writing sessions gave birth to their newest album Almost Human. “It’s heavy, uplifting, emotional, edgy, thematic, and intentionally ambiguous at

times to allow for freedom of imagination. We attempted to bring all of these different themes together in a collage-like arrangement through-out our record,” the band said. Almost Human challenges what listen-ers view as humans The band admits that they aren’t creating music for monetary support but if it permits, it would be a great opportunity. The members of Sonmi all have solo projects yet they perform as a group on stage so staying as a group isn’t a struggle they face. “We all believe that feeling is special and couldn’t possibly be recreated by a solo performance. It doesn’t make the best business model for a struggling music industry, but it definitely creates the best energy,” said Sonmi. Besides making additions to their live show, Sonmi ultimately wants to become better musically speaking. “We would rather make music that stays with you for a long time than music that’s going to be a flash in the pan and be forgotten about while it wastes away in its convention.”

Somni delivers soundnew to music industry

By Kiyonna AnthonyStaff Writer

Comedian Chris Tucker has made his way back to his hometown of Atlanta, Georgia to perform two nights of his stand up act at the Fox Theatre. The ‘Rush Hour’ actor revealed that during his hiatus from film-ing movies, he’s been doing shows at stand up comedy clubs and is now working his way back up to performing in arenas. “After my show’s at the Fox Theatre, I will be doing an arena tour around the world, ” he said. Tucker is filming his first ever stand up comedy movie featuring shows from his theatre tour. The film will showcase everything from his acting hiatus to situa-tions in his personal life. “This film has been 7 years in the making and you get to see an-other side of me,” he explained. The movie star has a very busy schedule these days; he’s also fea-

tured in the new film Silver Linings Playbook co-starring Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence. “Bradley Cooper’s character and I meet at a mental institution. My character just influences his character to stay positive,” he revealed. When asked who his favorite character to play was, he replied, “I love Smokey! Smokey was iconic.” But Smokey’s icon status isn’t enough to make this movie want to reprise his roll as the pot smoking funny man in the last Friday movie, which is rumored to be filming this year. “ I’m grateful for that role because it was my first starring role. I had to prove myself, but now I think Smokey should rest.” One of Tucker’s goals is to help young people achieve their dreams and become what ever they want to be. He believes that with much focus and dedication, people can manifest anything it is they desire. Check out Chris Tucker’s live filming for his first stand up com-edy movie on November 9th and 10th at the Fox Theatre. Also, follow him on Twitter @realctucker.

Comedian Chis Tucker steps back on the stage

By Chivone SmithEditor in Chief

Singer Brandy has stepped back on the mu-sic scene with new album “Two Eleven.” Before Two Eleven, the singer’s last album “Human” was in 2008 with hit singles “Departed” and “Long Distance.” Before then, her last album “Full Moon” was released in 2002. While “Human” didn’t get as much rave as the singer would have liked, but it let fans know that she was still around. With “Two Eleven” Brandy is showing fans a new side of her. Two Eleven is nothing like her previous albums. The album released mid October and debuted at #3 on the Billboard 100

charts.Throughout the album, Brandy takes listeners on a brief rundown of how the last two years have played out for her. In her single, “Wildest Dreams,” the singer tells listeners how she never thought she’d meet the man of her dreams (i.e., boyfriend Ryan Press). She even goes on to give clear descriptions of how he understands how emotional she is (which we all know from watching her reality show “Brandy & Ray J: A Family Business.) Fast-forwarding, there’s a track on the song called “There’s no such thing as too late,” where she hints how she made her current BF wait a while before he discovered her bedroom secrets. She explained how special it

needed to be for her and how she wanted to make a more emotional connec-tion rather than a physical one.In a track entitled “Slow-er,” her bedroom secrets were revealed as she walked listeners through what she prefers to take place during her “special” encounters. In her track “Put it Down” featuring singer Chris Brown, Brandy show’s her up-tempo side. The instrumentals provided in this track have a hip-hop feel. In her track, “Scared of Beautiful,” Brandy tells about her struggles with her insecurities. But she reveals that she has learned to become a self-motivator. She insinuates how she was scared of the light more than the dark and how

she feared the truth more than the truth. She revealed how she gave fear and in-securities too much power and she now has it back. She also has her fan’s back. In every perfor-mance and cameo she’s been a part of (Wendy Williams Show, Black Girls

Rock, Fashion Police on E! etc.), fan reaction has been more than inviting. So, according to the numbers and according to the fan reactions, Two Eleven didn’t disappoint. With that, it’s only right to repeat…Brandy is back!

New album shows music fansa more mature side of Brandy

Experimental/Rock band Somni

Brandy’s newest album cover “Two Eleven”

So what’s all the fuss about the freshman 15?

EDITORIALClark Atlanta University The Panther Nov. 13-Nov. 27 201210

Deance’ WyattContributing Writer

Many students at Clark Atlanta Univer-sity are not satisfied with the way the institution operates when it comes to enrollment. Clark Atlanta University was once a school full of pride and joy. Students were excited to be a part of the institution. In recent times you find more and more students leaving and transferring out of the institution than to it. First-year student retention sits at 66 percent, while the graduation rate has dropped to 23 percent. In many cases students are bothered by the admissions, financial aid and student ac-counts process. There are always long lines with only four administrators to assist thou-sands of students. Keeping this same process is only going

to hinder the current decline in enrollment to the institution. Word travels fast about the nega-tive situations students acquire at the hands of the administration. According to first-thoughts.com, many people complain about Clark At-lanta versus being happy with it. The cost of tuition is extremely high for students to have to miss classes because of long lines and confusion in the offices. This causes many students to not want to be a part of this institution. Clark Atlanta University needs to hire more staff members to aid the process of enroll-ment and to also find people who actually want to help the next generation of students succeed to the next level of their matriculation in education. There can be a major advantage to changing the process of enrollment to benefit not only the student but also Clark Atlanta Uni-versity also.

Many students transfer from CAU out of frustration

The Panther is published by stu-dents at Clark Atlanta University.

The opinions expressed in The Panther reflect only the positions of the stu-dent writers and editorial staff and not the ideas or opinions of the Univer-sity or its governing board. The Pan-ther has both the right and responsi-bility to report news of student interest from on and off campus, to editorialize on matters of student concern and to provide a forum for the free expression of opinion and exchange ideas in the community. Reprints by permission of the editor and adviser. All rights reserved.

The Panther

Chivone SmithEditor in Chief

Sequoyah ArmourManaging Editor

Sequenza WilliamsNews Editor

Rashida DodsonPhotographer

Demitria SandersCopy Editor

Kiyonna AnthonyNia Testamark

Jasmine RodgersStaff Writers

James D. McJunkins Sr.Faculty Adviser

Want to be a Part of an Award-Winning

Organization? The Panther newspaper is looking for a team of writers, proofreaders and layout & design staffers. If you don’t have the skills, we will train you. We meet Wednesdays at 6 p.m. in Room G30 in the Communication Arts Center located on the lower level of the Robert Woodruff Library. E-mail: caunews05@yahoo.com

Treat public furniture as if it were your ownRicardo WilliamsContributing Writer

The dining section outside of CAU’s cafeteria has been newly remodeled over the summer and many students were pleased to see this much needed renovation. Before hand there were standard booths that were limited in seats and in questionable conditions. The renovation for the Wings and Things area or better known s the “Wow” now has circular seating arrangements, new furniture and a completely different concept. This is a popular place for students to grab something to eat at various times of the day despite the hours of operation in the cafeteria. People generally like the Wow and it is a spot that is greatly ap-preciated by those who use it. But already there are significant prob-lems with the furniture in the Wow. The brand new tables installed only a few months ago are already in bad shape. It raises questions of are

there some students who are ungrateful and de-structive or was the quality of the furniture sub-standard in the first place? All of the tables are completely off balance and people find it hard to share space with one another when tables are wobbling from one side to another. These problems are irritating to stu-dents, and may reflect deeper issues. How can it be that the brand new tables are already falling apart after less than a year’s worth of usage? If the tables could be fixed then that would be greatly appreciated, but if they cannot be repaired then they should be replaced. Buy-ing cheap tables is only encouraging a culture for cutting corners. The blame may not be solely with administration, students must take better care of the facilities and show more respect for each other. All students who patronize the Wow have to share a lot of common area and it hurts all when even just one person chooses to treat something carelessly.

By Adam VannContributing Writer

Is freshman 15 an excuse that could cause college students health risks? Freshman 15 is a popular term used for college students who may have gained15 pounds during their first year. Many stu-dents believe that freshman 15 is a myth. Some students say they gain 15 pounds and others say they gain more. Since students have left home they have more freedom to make choices. Some may go to college parties that provide alcoholic beverages and eat out during late hours of the night. These activities provide unhealthy foods that cause weight gain. Having the freedom to engage in such activ-ities pose a challenge for first-year college students to eat healthy and could possibly increase health risks. The good news is college students are presumed to be smart given that they are

at an institution for higher learning. They can determine how to choose better eating habits because they have the capacity to do so.Whether freshman 15 is real or just a myth, the issue of obesity is not to be taken lightly. Gaining weight can cause severe health problems in the future for students who eat carelessly. Unfortunately there are many disadvantages for freshmen due to col-lege parties. Once individuals begin to eat poorly it becomes a hard habit to break. Therefore it’s imperative that stu-dents commit to choosing better foods. It is best not to party all of the time to decrease the amount of unhealthy food intake. Also exercise, because once an individual gets comfortable with being a freshman and eating poorly, it increases chance of weight gain and health risks. Us-ing freshman 15 should not be an excuse because college students have control over how they eat.

By Mesha SmithContributing Writer

The Clark Atlanta University Panthers didn’t disappoint Home-coming fans on Oct 13, when they played the Benedict College Tigers with a 14-10 victory.. The win moved the Pan-thers to 2-5 overall and 2-3 in the SIAC. The Panthers started strong with a 7-0 lead driving 93 yards on 10 plays in the first quarter and a 13 -yard touchdown made by Jay Carter. Following the touchdown Austin Casillas attempted to land the team a field goal and fell short. In the second quarter the Tigers took a 10-7 lead after Joshua Bradley recovered the Pan-thers fumble. The next play, Tigers player Marcus Graham threw a 15 -yard pass to Kendariss Brown to complete a touchdown, their

kicker Eduardo Hernan-dez adding to the score with a 28-yard field goal. The Tigers kept the lead through halftime all the way to the beginning of the fourth quarter. But, the Tigers punter Brian Curry punted 15-yards and gave the Panthers the field ad-vantage allowing Panthers quarterback Charles King the opportunity to throw a deep pass to David Grace, who completed a 31-yard touchdown. This gave CAU the lead. Trail-ing by four points the Tigers got the ball back and received a call for offensive holding by their player Mujahid Assad. Gaining back the ball, the Panthers managed to move the ball 21 yards when the backup punter

SPORTSClark Atlanta University8

The Panther Nov. 13-Nov. 27 2012

Panthers claw Benedictin Homecoming, 14-10

By Leon ValentineContributing Writer

College basketball season is back in session. The time has come again for another basketball season with Clark At-lanta Panthers On Oct. 29, the Panthers threw an event which focused on the awareness and arrival of the upcoming basketball season. The event titled “Midnight Mad-ness,” hosted by CAU’s Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, brought food, fun, performances and giveaways in the Epps Gymnasium. The event was of free admission and gained a large, supportive fan base, many of which were current students, alumni, faculty and students of other in-stitutions in the AUC. The event also had a collection being given to donate to the Make-A-Wish-Foundation. The Panthers men and women’s basketball teams participated in perfor-mances that led to crowd interaction and engagement. Both teams conducted activities, like three points shoot-outs, dunk con-tests and announced the 2012-2013 roster, which showed the current players and their skillset that will be displayed this year. As fans and supporters cheered and applauded the players, the momentum for the basketball team and season is high, with hopes of a good outcome this season. The Panthers will kick off the basketball season on Nov. 14, as the Lady Panthers take on Spelman College at six in Epps Gymnasium. The men’s basketball team will play their first game on Nov. 20 against Georgia College and State Univer-sity at 8 p.m. in Epps Gymnasium.

Midnight Madness meansbasketball season is near

Panther wide receiver David Grace catches a pass from quarterback Charles King to score for a 31-yard touchdown late in the fourth quarter for a win.

Vauchard Goodridge was called to the field. Casillas, the original kicker, was injured in the first half and Goodridge, who is a defensive lineman, was called in his place. Goodridge completed a perfect punt at the Tigers’ one-yard line. With a few minutes left on the clock the Tigers regained control of the ball and tried hard to move the

ball. But after their player Tyquan Bazeman fumbled the ball, the Panthers recovered it and let the clock run Clark Atlanta University to a win. “The atmosphere was alive and in the CAU spirit and I believe the team felt it and fed off of it and brought us a great win,” Panther Diamonds President Arieon Ford said.

News Briefs Dr. James A. Hefner, a CAU alumnus, will serve as interim provost and vice president for academic affairs following the departure of Dr. Joseph H. Silver Sr. who began serving as president of Alabama State University Sept. 17. Hefner, who in May of 2005 retired from a stellar career in higher education, brings 21 years of experience as a university president to the office. He served as president of Tennessee State University for 14 years. Prior to leading TSU, he was president of Jackson State University, where he served for seven years. He also served as provost at Tuskegee University. CAU President Dr. Carlton E. Brown said, “We are honored that Dr. Hefner joins CAU’s leader-ship team as a national search begins. As well, we are immensely proud that yet another alumnus has returned to bring this depth and breadth of leadership experience to our institution. A true visionary, Dr. Hefner is prepared to guide Clark Atlanta University as we work to complete our 2010-2013 strategic plan, as well as with our new focus on preparing students for global leadership and entrepreneurship. We are grateful he has chosen to suspend his retirement at this critical juncture of our advancement. This also underscores the level of expertise and leadership found among our alumni ranks.”

Morehouse College has named Dr. John S. Wilson Jr., a 1979 graduate, as the 11th president of the school. Dr. Wilson is was also recently tapped by President Obama to serve as the executive di-rector of the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Dr. Wilson will officially assume the role as Morehouse’s president at the end of January. Dr. Wilson is a former associate professor at George Washington University, where his research focused on finance in higher education and the role of black colleges and universities. He also worked for 16 years as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, serving as the director of foundation relations and assistant provost.

Florida A&M University has offered to pay $300,000 to the family of drum major Rob-ert Champion, 26, who died after a hazing aboard a charter bus in Orlando a year ago. But Pamela and Robert Champion Sr. were “insulted” by the offer and have rejected it, said the family’s attorney, Christopher Chestnut, who did not say what amount might be acceptable. “The family remains concerned that FAMU is not taking this as seriously as it should,” Chestnut said. Trustees of Florida A&M University directed their legal team a few months ago to try to settle the wrongful-death lawsuit that the Champions filed earlier this year. FAMU, a public university, can only offer a maximum of $300,000 without seeking approval from the state. Eleven former band members have pleaded not guilty to participating in the fatal hazing and are awaiting trial dates. A 12th band member involved in the hazing — Brian Jones, 24, of Parrish, near Bradenton — was given a community-service sentence after pleading no contest Oct. 9. Champion is a graduate of Southwest DeKalb High School.

Family rejects offer for death of son in FAMU hazing incident

Alumnus Dr. James A. Hefner named interim provost

Morehouse College names Dr. John Wilson Jr. as new president