NEW SOURCE OF SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS FROM MIDDLE-INCOME FAMILIES

It has been hard to miss the construction along Interstate 5 and local streets in Salmon Creek, the main access points for students and faculty commuting to WSU Vancouver.

The project is adding extra exit-only lanes to reduce conges-tion along the freeway, part of a bigger joint project between the Washington State Department of Transportation and Clark County Public Works known as the Salmon Creek Interchange Project. The final cost is of the entire project is estimated at $133 million.

The Salmon Creek area has grown significantly in recent years.

New housing and retail stores, the opening of Legacy Salmon Creek Medical Center and the WSU Vancouver campus, have increased population and traffic congestion in the area.

According to WSDOT, the Salmon Creek Interchange Project is intended to reduce traffic congestion and improve safety in the fast-growing area.

Construction began in August 2010 with Clark County grading the site for a new C-Tran Park and Ride. Road improvements along N.E. 10th Avenue, N.E. Tenney Road and N.E. 20th Avenue were included in the second stage of

construction, also managed by the county.

Construction of the additional lanes on I-5 between N.E. 134th Street and N.E. 179th Street, along with an additional lane on the I-205 northbound off ramp, are part of the third stage, started in July 2011.

Without additional lanes, WSDOT projected that traffic backups on the off-ramps to N.E. 134th Street from both I-5 and I-205 could extend approximately 1,000 feet during rush hour. Once construction is completed, the department estimates the backup will be reduced to roughly 300 feet.

It also expects the improvements to reduce the rate of collisions near these exits.

As of today, WSDOT indicates that construction is on schedule. The enhanced off-ramps should be completed and ready for use by July 2012.

The final stage in the project, scheduled for a construction start this spring, calls for building a new interchange at N.E. 139th Street a redesign of the N.E. 134th Street intersection. The entire Salmon Creek Interchange Project is slated for completion by 2014.

Salmon Creek InterChange ProjeCt on traCkPhase III of the project is nearly done, but most of the intersection and interchange construction lies ahead by emIly oStrowSkI, The VanCougar

to find out more information

about the Salmon Creek interchange

project visit : http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/

projects/i5/ne134thi205

Janurary 17, 2012 • Issue 3 • Volume 17

Students from middle-class families across Washington state will soon have additional resources to help them afford a college education. In December, Clark County’s state representative, Tim Probst and Gov. Christine Gregoire announced another step in the establishment of the Opportunity Scholarship initiative: They named a seven-member board of directors which includes current and retired leaders from Boeing, Microsoft, Weyerhaeuser Co., Puget Sound Energy, Trilogy International Partners, Costco and Delta Airlines.

The Opportunity Scholarship initiative, which Probst calls the “first of its kind, anywhere,” was overwhelmingly approved by Washington state legislators earlier this year. It aims to raise $1 billion over the next 10 years for direct scholarship funding and invest-ment. While Probst admits the goal may be “ambitious,” he maintains that even if a portion of the funds are raised, it will make a significant difference in the lives of many Washington college students.

The family income level of the intended recipient is a key difference between this fund and other scholarship programs. Probst designed this scholarship to

address the fact that tuition increases are making college harder to afford for middle-income families. Students from families with earnings up to 125 percent of the state’s average income can apply. For a family of four, that figure is approximately $98,000 per year.

Probst said he developed the Opportunity Scholarship initiative specifically for middle-class families. There is a strong need-based program in place in Washington that was recently improved. The purpose of this fund is to get aid to struggling middle-income students who don’t qualify for many need-based programs, but [who] are struggling all the same,” said Probst.

Nancy Youlden, WSU Vancou-ver vice chancellor of student affairs, said the university is aware of the scholarship board. “It will target middle-income families that are caught in the middle as they are a key group,” said Youlden. “Currently, the best resource for these students is to fill out FAFSA forms by Feb. 1 and wait to see what aid may be available.”

Probst could not say for certain when the first scholarship will be awarded. However, he said applications for scholarship funds

should be available by the end of February. Although Probst said the scholarship board has yet to decide on all scholarship qualifications, he indicated they may include a preference for fields of high economic and/or student demand. Although hesitant to put too fine a point on what he meant, Probst mentioned STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) fields and education degrees.

Youlden said WSU Vancouver is situated to support students in these majors. For example, the university recently invested in a new engineering building and nursing program. “At this point, it is hard to quantify the impact this program will have on our univer-sity,” she said.

The fund is already off to a running start with a $5 million initial investment from the state and pledges of $25 million over the next five years from both Boeing and Microsoft.

Originally the state planned to raise funds for investment and use the interest income to fund scholarships. Probst said the recent economic turmoil and spiking tuition costs made him recognize that there is a crisis now.

Probst says the program should eventually become an investment-driven enterprise. However, because so many middle-income students are currently struggling, the board plans to begin aiding students as soon as possible. Donors will be allowed to specify

how they would like their dona-tions distributed between invest-ment and immediate scholarship awards.

“Budget cuts in the field of education hurt students, the economy and the future,” said Probst. He compared the recent trend by universities of favoring out-of-state and international applicants for greater tuition revenue to “eating the seed corn.”

“It is important during difficult times to recognize the problems and efforts of students. It is also important to support those individuals who want to improve themselves and their surroundings as they are contributing to society and the greater good,” said Probst.

aBOVE: Former Delta airlines Ceo Jerry Grinstein, BoeinG Ceo Jim alBauGh, Gov. Christine GreGoire, miCrosoFt General Counsel BraD smith anD rep. tim proBst. | photo courtesy of the office of Rep. Tim Probst

Opportunity Scholarship available soon by ken lowe, The VanCougar

Sports, outdoors, and recreation

Campus trailsPage 9

Student involvementDia De Los MuertosPage 6

take The VanCougar reader’s Survey and you could win a $50 gift certificate to the bookie!Details on the back page.

January and February are known for ice and snow in the Pacific Northwest. If you wake up to icicles on your window ledge, what can you expect on campus?

WSU Vancouver rarely modifies operations for weather conditions, but if the weather outside is frightful, campus closure or delayed opening announce-ments will be posted to major news and media outlets. Staff and students may also find this information on the WSU Vancou-ver website home page and the ALERT web page: www.vancouver.wsu.edu/alerts

When you arrive on campus on an icey or snowy day, park in any open, plowed parking lot. This is one time your parking sticker color does not matter. Some parking lots

and pathways may be closed while plowing and/or de-icing are in progress. For your safety, stick to the pathways that are already plowed and de-iced.

It can be a long trek across campus to class, so remember to dress for the weather and wear appropriate shoes when snow or ice is present.

Even if campus is open, it remains your responsibility to decide if you can safely commute on area roads. Remember to consider the weather forecast for your return commute as well.

Students should check their email before heading to school. Individual faculty members will notify their students if classes are cancelled.

The WSU Vancouver weather

policy, instructional information, and a list of closure notification websites can be found at http://admin.vancouver.wsu.edu/public-safety/emergency-closure-suspended-operations-procedure .

Be safe and enjoy the snow!

let it snow! let it snow! let it snow!

by CynDIe meyer, The VanCougar

2 Campus News

WSU Vancouver campus gets ready for winter weather

THE VANCOUGAR

The VanCougar is a student-run newspaper serving the students, faculty and staff of

WSU Vancouver.Copies of The VanCougar are

available on campus free of charge.

Location:Classroom building (VCLS)

Room 21214024 NW Salmon Creek Ave.

Vancouver, WA 98686Phone: (360) 546-9524

Corrections Policy:It is our policy to correct errors.

Please contact the editors by email at vancouged@vancouver.wsu.edu

wednesday, jan. 18 by 4 p.m.Last day to sign up for “DRIVE” - Part 3 of the “Sex. Confidence. Drive.” Series.

office of Student Involvement; Firstenburg Student Commons

Friday, jan. 20 by 4 p.m.Last day to sign up for Mt. Bachelor Ski and Snowboard Trip. Trip includes two night hotel stay and lift tickets.Sign up at the recreation office

Friday, jan. 20 - 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.“DrIVe” - Part 3 of the “Sex. Confidence. Drive.” series. Meet at OSI. Transportation provided to the 10th Annual Leadership Conference at PSU. Meals includedFree Space is limited

Saturday, jan. 21- 8:30 to 10:30 p.m.Ice Skating Skates provided Family friendlymountain View Ice arenaFree

Sunday, jan. 22 - 6 to 9 p.m.Rock climbingThe Source Climbing CenterFee: $5Sign up at the recreation office

monday, jan. 23 - tuesday, jan. 24 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.WSU Vancouver Student Involvement Fair and Pizza FeedFirstenburg Student CommonsFree

wednesday, jan. 25 - 1p.m. - Thursday, jan. 26; 9 a.m.Regal Movie Tickets on SaleVSSC Cashiertickets: $5, limit 2 per student

wednesday, jan. 25 - Thursday, jan. 26 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.FASFA Feed and Scholarship FairFirstenburg Student CommonsFree

Thursday, jan. 26 - 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.Ski Bowl Night Ski Tripreserve your space at the recreation office

Thursday, jan. 26 time to be announced

First night of Intramural 3-on-3 Basketball LeagueSign up at recreation office

monday, jan. 31 - 4 to 6 p.m.Diversity Mixer Firstenburg Student Commons Free

wednesday, Feb. 1 at 7 p.m.WSU Vancouver Public Affairs lecture seminar: “From Public Good to Personal Gain”Firstenburg Student CommonsFree

The VanCougar welcomes brief letters (250 words or fewer) from members of the WSU Vancouver community on current is-sues. Letters must include the author’s full name, contact informa-tion and WSU affiliation, year and major/department for students, department for faculty and staff, or degree and year graduated for alumni.

The VanCougar does not publish anonymous letters. Prior-ity is given to letters that relate directly to stories printed in The VanCougar.

The VanCougar also welcomes guest commentaries of 550 words or fewer addressing issues of general interest to the WSU Vancouver community.

Letters and commentaries should focus on issues, not person-alities. Personal attacks will not be considered for publication. The VanCougar reserves the right to edit for space, libel, obscene material and clarity. The views expressed are solely those of the individual authors.

VanCougar letters Policy

Sharpen your pencil and grab your notebook! The WSU Vancou-ver creative media and digital culture (CMDC) program and the university English department have planned two separate opportunities for would-be writers. Professional writers Series

On Jan. 18, the WSU Vancou-ver English department will launch the 2012 Professional Writers Series with a presentation by Lidia Yuknavitch titled “Moving Outside the Margins.” Yuknavitch’s workshop is the first of five in the series that will meet from 7-9 p.m. in Library building Room 264. The line-up of professional writers in this series includes:

Feb. 1: Jelly Helm “Hey Mister, That’s Me up on the Billboard (and on TV, in Print, on the Web, etc.)”

Feb. 15: Brian Doyle, “Noticing What Goes Unnoticed”

Feb 29: Cai Emmons, “Weaving the Well-Woven Story”

March 21: Randy Gragg, “Making Your Pitch”

Unpublished writers’ Day The second National Unpub-

lished Writer’s Day Workshop, a free program coordinated by the WSU Vancouver writing center and CMDC program in coopera-

tion with the Clark County Historical Museum, will take place from 12-5 p.m., Jan. 29 at the Clark County Historical Museum.

The event started last year, inspired by the vision of Washing-ton-born writer Richard Brautigan who dreamed of a library filled with unpublished books, treasured regardless of their content or quality.

“This event is not just about putting pencil to paper or pixels to screen,” said John Barber, CMDC faculty and event organizer. The event features a wide interpretation of writing that incudes writing for mobile media, radio and other genres. “Creative stations” where participants can explore many aspects of writing from poetry to do-it-yourself comic strips and zines will be led by local experts including Willamette Radio and Brett Oppegaard, WSU Vancouver professor of media communica-tions. Writers can hone their skills in creative, spontaneous or comedy writing, and a session on resume writing is planned for those who are ready to leave the garret.

The museum and Brautigan Library will be open for viewing during the event.

explore your literary sideUpcoming events offer creative and practical support for would-be authors

team editorsHaley Sharp

Margarita Topal

writersAdam Baldwin, Ryan Burke, Inahlee Bauer,

Sarah Cusanelli, Hailey Hanson, Teresa Lane, Kenneth Lowe, Kaitlyn McClain, Emily Ostrowski,

Alex Smith, Emily Smith, Kelsey Smith, Kylo Stever, Nicole Tolmie, Joshua Wagner

Contact Information: VanCougar office Phone

360-546-9524

editor-in-chiefvancouged@vancouver.wsu.edu

managing editorvancouged@vancouver.wsu.edu

advertising managervancougad@vancouver.wsu.edu

advisorsBrenda Alling, Director of Marketing and Communications

Casey Payseno, Student Involvement Advisor

editor-in-chiefCyndie Meyer

layout and DesignLouise Tollisen

The VanCougar Staffmanaging editor

Emily Uhde

Copy editorChristine Watson

Mark Your Calendar!

2012 WSU Vancouver Professional Writers Series7-9 p.m., Jan. 18

Library building, Room 264

The 2nd Annual Unpublished Writers’ Day Workshop

12 - 5 p.m., Jan. 29Clark County Historical Museum

Public Affairs Lecture Series

Think.ThinkBIG.Celebrating 10 years

Wednesday,

February 17:00 p.m.

Firstenburg Student CommonsWSU Vancouver campus

PALS_Ad.indd 2 1/10/12 3:08 PM

by CynDIe meyer, The VanCougar

Campus News 3

Campus events simplify financial aid and scholarshipsWith FAFSA deadlines looming, WSU Vancouver offers events and information to help students compete for available assistance

Let’s face it, a college education is expensive. Scholarships and finan-cial aid can help struggling students afford the cost.

“Approximately 75 percent of students at WSU Vancouver receive financial aid or scholarships,” said April Lappin, financial aid and scholarship manager at WSU Van-couver.File your FaFSa

Every year that students want to be considered for financial assis-tance, they must file a form known as the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). The count-down for filing began on Jan. 1. Lap-pin suggests that students submit a FAFSA by Feb. 1. Last year, funding was gone by Feb. 15 and 316 WSU Vancouver students who filed their FAFSA forms late missed out on $2,550,144 in financial aid.

Submitting the FAFSA on time does not obligate a student to attend college or to enroll at WSU Vancou-ver, but it does ensure that a student may be considered for financial aid or scholarships if he or she decides to continue with school. Once the FAFSA is submitted, a student can request that the information be sent to every school to which he or she applies.

Lappin said it is important for students to get their FAFSA into the queue early.

“Washington State allocates a cer-

tain amount of funding for students at each institution. When the funds are gone, they are gone,” said Lappin. “Last year our funding was used by Feb. 15 and we anticipate it will be gone even sooner this year. So file your FAFSA as soon as possible.”

“Other types of financial aid (i.e., Stafford Loans and Pell Grants) do not run out, so late FAFSA filers can get these regardless of their FAFSA filing date,” said Lappin. “However, if a student is Pell Grant-eligible, that indicates they are living below the federal poverty line. It is really important that these students in par-ticular understand the importance of filing their FAFSAs early in order to be considered for State Need Grant funds and work/study programs in addition to the Pell Grant.”

Federal student loans offer bor-rowers many benefits not typi-cally found in private loans. These include low fixed interest rates, income-based repayment plans, loan forgiveness and deferment op-tions, including deferment of loan payments when a student returns to school and work/study programs.Scholarship opportunities

Unlike loans, scholarships and (most or all) grants do not require pay-back. The first deadline for scholarship application is Jan. 31 for multiple WSU system-wide scholar-ships. Feb. 8 is the deadline to apply for the Vancouver Rotary Club

scholarships (two for undergradu-ate and two for graduate students). Lappin suggests all WSU Vancouver students apply for internal WSU Vancouver scholarships as well.

“With one application, [students] are putting their name in the hat for more than 80 different scholarships for only WSU Vancouver students,” said Lappin. The deadline for this application is March 31.

Applications for all three scholar-ship sources may be found at http://studentaffairs.vancouver.wsu.edu/financial-aid-and-scholarships/scholarships.

Students are also encouraged to complete a profile on the Wash-board (www.thewashboard.org), a clearinghouse for more than 700 scholarships for Washington resi-dent students.

“Washington State is a leader in the nation as to the level of matching this website [Washboard] does for students. It is free for both students and donors,” said Lappin.

Not all scholarships are based on financial need; some are merit-based or a combination of both.attend an upcoming event

Lappin suggests attending one of several upcoming events on the WSU Vancouver campus designed to help students and their families explore financial assistance pos-sibilities.

A-Z of Financial Aid & Scholar-

ships is a free one-hour workshop sponsored by the Student Resource Center. Held monthly throughout the year, the workshop covers the financial aid process and where to find scholarships. The next two workshops are scheduled from 6 to 7 p.m. Feb. 2 in the Student Services Center, room 101 and from 7 to 8 p.m. Feb. 16 in the Dengerink Ad-ministration building, room 110.

The FAFSA Feed and Scholarship Fair is an event designed to help current WSU Vancouver students complete their FAFSA forms on time while enjoying free pizza. The university initiated the event last year when it recognized how many students on campus qualified for grants but failed to apply on time. FAFSA Feed will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jan. 25 and 26 in the Firstenburg Student Commons.

College Goal Sunday is another free event scheduled from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Jan. 22 in the Firstenburg Student Commons. It is geared toward incoming students and their parents, but current WSU Vancou-ver students may also attend.

“Frequently, first generation col-lege students whose parents never attended college are intimidated and confused by the financial aid process,” said Lappin. “Often, they either do not complete the FAFSA or they pay a consultant to do it for them. Families can attend College

Goal Sunday for free and get all the assistance they need.”

To make information accessible to all, break-out sessions will be offered in English, Spanish and Russian. Volunteers from WSU Vancouver and Clark College financial aid of-fices and student ambassadors will be on hand to offer assistance.

Keynote speaker, Swil Kanim, a Native American who used financial aid to earn his college degree, will discuss the impact scholarships and other forms of assistance can make. Following his address, participants will move to the Undergraduate Classroom building and use com-puters to complete and submit their FAFSA forms.

Dependent students who are listed on their parents’ taxes should bring a parent or legal guardian. Independent students (24 or older or legally independent) will not require a parent’s income informa-tion. All applicants and their parents should bring social security or alien registration numbers, a driver’s license or identification card, and a W-2 showing income from last year. For those who have yet to complete last year’s taxes, a pay stub or prior years’ tax returns can be used to estimate income.

Approximately 200 students and family members attended the event last year. This year, Lappin expects attendance could to be closer to 300.

Got Questions ?Ask @ the Library

Where are you going?

Where have you been?

Check out the new wall‐sized map in the Library and make your mark on it!!

Stop at the desk and get a sticker.  Write the name of the most interesting place you have been or the place you 

most want to see and place it on our map.

The Associated Students of WSU Vancouver will elect the ASWSUV president, vice president and senators for the 2012-2013 academic year on March 6, 7 and 8. Elections will take place online and on campus. Students may vote online at aswsuv.com or at campus polls managed by the elections board.

Students interested in running for student government must complete a candidate packet containing position descriptions and campaign guidelines. Packets will be available in the Office of Student Involvement in the Firstenburg Student Commons beginning Jan. 23. Prior experience is not required to run for office, but candidates must maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 and carry a minimum of six credits.

ASWSUV officers represent the entire student body, making their voices heard as they set policy, plan events and encourage student participation throughout the year. Because the term of office for any

ASWSUV position is one year, all seats will be available. However, there is no limit to the number of terms that an officer may run for re-election. The number of ASWSUV officers seeking re-election is unknown at present.

Branches of student government include the executive staff, senate and judicial board.

The ASWSUV president and vice president head student government and campaign for office on a joint ticket. The president represents the needs and concerns of WSU Vancouver students to university administration and local and state government. The vice president chairs the ASWSUV senate and supports the activities of the president and senate. The president and vice president hire an execu-tive staff who oversee the activities of ASWSUV legislative affairs, pub-lic relations, activities, events, leadership development and academic affairs.

Audrey Miller, current ASWSUV president said, “Both executive staff members must post a minimum of

10 office hours per week, but the actual time commitment varies by time of year.”

The ASWSUV senate has 11 seats. Senators listen to students and help resolve their issues through student government. They influence student fund allocation and policy by writing and sponsor-ing senate bills. Every senator is required to serve on at least one senate committee.

Monetary compensation for ASWSUV positions varies according to the duties and responsibilities of the office.

Audrey Miller, ASWSUV president said that students who do not want to run for office can still influence life on campus by communicating their needs to members of ASWSUV student government and by voting.

“Students need to tell an ASWSUV senator about their concerns or campus issues,” said Miller. “This is one way students can get involved with student government without holding a position in ASWSUV.”

aSwSUV election approachesCampaign packets available from OSI on Jan. 23

by ryan bUrke, The VanCougar

by margarIta toPal, The VanCougar

4 Campus News

New faculty joinsWSU Vancouver

Thanh Dang, who holds a doctorate in computer science from Portland State University, is an assistant professor of computer science. He is doing research in sensor networking.

“The campus is really nice. That’s one of the reasons why I chose this job. This is the first time I have taught a class, so I was a bit nervous, but my impression is that the students here are also very nice. They really concentrate on the class, which is no surprise,” Dang said. “In general, everything is working out well, and I’m happy to be here.”

tutku karacolak holds a Ph.D. from Mississippi State University. He is an assistant professor of electrical engineering.

“I chose WSU Vancouver because I wanted to be involved in the development of the electrical engineering program. This year, our senior students will graduate from the department for the first time. Teaching and researching in this area is good because there are so many opportunities. It’s exciting.”

brett oppegaard, assistant professor in the Creative Media and Digital Culture program in the College of Liberal Arts at WSU Vancouver, earned his Ph.D. at Texas Tech University. He is developing the new media communication minor at WSU Vancouver in partnership with The Edward R. Murrow College of Communication in Pullman. More information about the minor can be found here: mediacommunicationwsuv.org.

Praveen Sekhar, who holds a Ph.D. from the University of South Florida in Tampa, is an assistant professor of electrical engineering.

“I am enjoying my teaching and my students are enjoying the class. That makes both of us happy. I like the campus. It’s easy to meet and collaborate with colleagues here,” Sekhar said. “I would also like to train undergraduates for national research positions.”

beth tarasawa, who holds a Ph.D. from Emory University in Atlanta, is a diversity faculty fellow and clinical assistant professor of sociology.

“This is a great opportunity to focus on my research and teaching interests in the area of diversity. Additionally, I am thrilled to be working at a public institution; something I value immensely,” Tarasawa said. “Finally, it is an opportunity to return to the Northwest, the place I have always considered home.”

Tarasawa teaches sociology of race relations.

Feng Zhao, assistant professor of electrical engineering with special interest in advanced device design and nano- scale devices and structures, earned his Ph.D. from the University of Colorado in Boulder.

“WSU Vancouver is a small campus so the class size is good and interaction between faculty members is good. The students here are nice and hardworking. I’m teaching the capstone class and the students are eager to work so that makes me happy,” Zhao said. “Also, my favorite part is the view of the two mountains.”

Allison Coffin, assistant professor of neuroscience, is a new addition to the science department beginning spring semester. Her research focuses on hearing loss and prevention. Coffin earned her Ph.D. in biology from the University of Maryland. “I love both teaching and research and this campus offers a balance of both aspects of academic life. I like the active neuroscience group on campus and look forward to working closely with Dr. Portfors and Dr. Morgan and their labs. I also appreciate having another zebrafish researcher, on campus. Finally, I love the area.”

kristin lesseig, who earned her Ph.D. in mathematics education at Oregon State University, is assistant professor of teaching and learning.

“What I love most so far is the campus environment which includes both the wonderful people and the outdoor setting. Both are inviting,” Lesseig said. “I can walk into buildings across campus and be greeted by friendly folks or can wander on the paths and enjoy the awesome trees and mountain views.”

yoon jo kim holds a Ph.D. from the School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering from the Seoul National University. He is assistant professor of mechanical engineering.

“I like teaching and research so I have wanted to be a professor,” Kim said. “I like the atmosphere on campus. Also, I prefer more intimate relationships with other faculty members as well as students. WSU Vancouver offers all this and the location is perfect.”

Brian McTier, who earned his Ph.D. at the University of Texas at San Antonio, is assistant professor of finance.

“I chose WSU Vancouver because of the university’s emphasis on both high-quality teaching and R1 research,” McTier said. “Also, the quality of life in the Vancouver area is great.”

no Photo ProVIDeD

The VanCougar is hiring! We currently have a position open for an Advertising Manager. Interested? Contact Emily Uhde, managing editor at vancougme@vancouver.wsu.edu

You would make a great ADdition to our team!

nikolay Strigul will begin teaching fall semester. He holds a Ph.D. in mathematics from Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, NJ. His background includes biology, engineering and mathematics.

no Photo ProVIDeD

Cassaundra Krueger was a brand new mother and a new student at WSU Vancouver in the fall of 2010. Convinced that breastfeeding was the healthiest option for her four-month-old infant, Krueger decided to attend classes and use a breast pump as necessary to collect milk that she could feed her child later.

However when Krueger put her plan into action, her commitment was challenged by a lack of sanitary, private facilities and access to refrigerated storage. Eventually, Krueger abandoned her plan and quit breastfeeding. A short time later, Krueger’s son developed croup which she blames, in part, on her decision.

Krueger’s experience inspired her to take action so other breastfeeding mothers will have a discrete and sanitary place dedicated to their needs.

“It is wrong that a community campus, such as we have, could have a daycare but not a mother’s room accessible to students,” said Krueger.

An increasing number of women are choosing to breastfeed their infants nowadays because of the emotional and health benefits for both baby and mother. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), human breast milk is the ideal food for infants. It is nutritionally balanced for human

needs and benefits the baby’s immune system. The AAP reports that breastfed children experience up to a 50 percent reduction in sudden infant death syndrome and a reduced incidence of diabetes later in life. Breastfeeding also promotes emotional attachment between mother and child.

Breastfeeding is a challenge for women who must spend time away from their babies due to work or school. Lactating women produce milk throughout the day. To maintain their milk supply and adequately provide for their infants, many women choose to use a mechanical breast pump to express milk which they either discard or collect for later use.

Krueger wanted to provide these benefits for her child, but collecting breast milk on campus was difficult.

“The only place I could use a breast pump was in a public restroom,” said Krueger. “It was

awkward and unsanitary.” To solve the problem, Krueger

envisioned a mother’s room—a private, clean place where a woman could use a breast pump and store breast milk under refrigeration. For support, Krueger turned to ASWSUV officers Audrey Miller and Mason O’Lennick. With their support, the Mother’s Room was implemented within weeks. Aided by Randy Boose, WSU Vancouver director of human resources, Room 202 in the Library building was designated for the purpose. Although spartan, the space is private and clean and is furnished with a chair, ottoman and changing table. The room lacks a sink, but a women’s restroom is nearby.

Krueger would like to see the room equipped with a cabinet for supplies and a refrigerator for safe milk storage.

“If there is support for the room from an OSI club or university department, then the Mother’s

Room can have a better budget,” Krueger said.

For security, the door is locked and requires an access code that is provided after the intended user has met with Boose. He can be reached at 360-546-9595 or rboose@vancouver.wsu.edu.

ASWSUV developed a survey to determine how many women use the Mother’s Room and what facilities they need. To provide feedback, women can complete the survey online by clicking on the pink heart at www.aswsuv.com. Krueger hopes the room will be well used.

“It is unlikely the room will be taken away as long as it is being used,” said Krueger.

Krueger hopes that breastfeeding moms will stay in school when they realize that the university respects their dignity and supports their needs and those of their infants.

The mother’s room is bornSpace in Library building is dedicated for the use of nursing mothers

by loUISe tollISen, The VanCougar

For two days in December, WSU Vancouver students, faculty and staff were busy saving lives at Firstenburg Student Commons. They knew that a pint of blood, a cheek swab to check for bone marrow compatibility or a commitment to donate organs in case of accidental death could make a difference between life and death for patients in need.

blood Donation “The blood supply for this

community is at critically low levels right now,” said Marilyn Place, phlebotomist with the Southwest Washington Blood Program who conducted the two-day campus blood drive. “We try to keep a seven- to 10-day supply on hand, but we currently have less than [that].”

Yvette Olive, donor resource representative for the Southwest Washington Blood Program, added that December and January are typically difficult months for blood collection.

“People get so busy at this time of year and that impacts our inventory,” she said.

The blood supply for southwest Washington was higher by January but some types are at still less than desirable levels.

“Type O-negative blood always seems to run low,” said Olive. “It is the universal blood type that anyone can accept, but only nine percent of the population has it. It is the third most transfused type of blood.”

The blood donation process takes about 45 minutes from start to finish. During registration, potential donors complete an electronic questionnaire about their health and recent travels. The answers are reviewed during the screening process while a techni-cian also records the donor’s blood pressure, temperature and pulse. If everything checks out, the donor is seated at one of four donation stations where they can read, talk on the phone or visit with a phlebotomist for the 10 to 20 minutes it takes to collect a pint of blood. After that, donors are treated to Gatorade and snacks in the “canteen” while they rest for 10 more minutes before leaving the site.

Although the donor’s body will replace the blood within two to four weeks, donors are required to wait 56 days before giving blood again.

“There is a small amount of discomfort when the catheter is first placed to initiate the blood draw, but it doesn’t hurt as badly as needing blood and not having any,” said Emily Tedder, one of the drive’s phlebotomists who was taking blood from Sylvia Dost, a WSU Vancouver sophomore biology major.

“It hurts a little, but it’s okay,” said Dost, who tries to donate blood two to three times a year. “They said they needed my blood type and this is a way of giving back.”

Following collection, the blood is packed in ice for a trip to the Puget Sound Blood Program headquarters in Renton, Wash. There it is tested for 23 different blood-borne pathogens before returning to southwest Washington for use at PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center, Legacy Salmon Creek Medical Center and PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center. The blood has a shelf life of 44 days before it must be discard-ed.

The turn-out for the December campus blood drive was low. Only 35 donors gave blood compared to 58 donors in January the year before. Olive blames the holiday season and the fact that people are still not aware that Southwest Washington Blood Program provides 90 percent of the blood used in Clark County and supplies blood and blood products to more than 70 hospitals and clinics in western Washington.

bone marrow DonationTanya Nobles, donor recruit-

ment representative for the bone marrow program, was also on site looking for potential bone marrow donors. By the end of the first day, five people had signed up.

“This is our first drive for bone marrow registration on the WSU Vancouver campus,” said Nobles. “Many people are nervous about signing up because of misinforma-tion regarding marrow donation.”

The need for bone marrow donors is tremendous. Only 40

percent of patients in need of a transplant are matched with a donor.

“For patients with a blood-borne cancer such as leukemia, a bone marrow transplant is often the only chance they have for survival,” said Nobles.

Finding a match is very difficult, especially for people from a minority race.

“The best chance for a match is someone with the patient’s racial background because we use DNA to match,” said Nobles.

Donations are urgently needed from African American, American Indian, Asian, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, Hispanic or Latino, or people from multi-racial backgrounds.

To join the bone marrow registry, potential donors must answer a few questions, then provide a swab from the inside of their cheek to help scientists determine the donor’s inherited tis-sue type known as human leuko-cyte antigen (HLA). Results are entered into a computerized registry of more than seven million potential donors.

If a donor is chosen for a patient, further screening is required before the donation process begins. Donors may be asked to donate peripheral blood stems cells

(PBSC), bone marrow or platelet cells. PBSC collection is the most common form of donating today. It is a non-surgical procedure during which blood is removed through a needle in one of the donor’s arms, passed through a machine that isolates needed cells, and returns the blood through a needle into the other arm.

Bone marrow, a thick blood-like substance produced in the center of bones, is removed from the donor’s pelvic bone during a fully anesthetized surgical procedure conducted by a physician.

In both cases, the marrow or stem cells regenerate within a matter of days. For more informa-tion, visit www.pbsc.org.

organ DonationWithin days of the blood and

marrow drives, ASWSUV also sponsored a drive to encourage organ donation. To become a registered organ donor, visit www.donatelifetoday.com and add your name to the online registry. You can also register with the Washing-ton Department of Motor Vehicles when you apply or renew your driver’s license. A red heart will be printed on your license and your name will be submitted to the registry.

giving the gift of lifeThree campus events help save lives by CynDIe meyer, The VanCougar

want to sharethe gift of life?

The Southwest Washington Blood

Program will return to campus for

another two-day drive: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Feb. 1-2.

Watch for information around campus about the event location as the date

draws closer.

“WSU Vancouver is one of our favorite blood

drive sites,” said Marilyn Place, phlebotomist with

the Southwest Wash-ington Blood Program.

“People have such a heart to donate on this

campus.” Place suggests that

donors drink lots of fluids for two to three days

before donating blood to prepare their bodies.

“Hydrate. Hydrate. Hy-drate,” she said

Campus News 5

aBove: Wsu vanCouver stuDent sylvia Dost Donates BlooD With assistanCe From phleBotomist emily teDer| photo by CYNDIE MEYER

6 Student Involvement

For most of us, death is hardly cause for celebration. But on Dia de los Muertos, Latin-American cultures celebrate death and life as they remember, honor and learn from the lives of those who have passed away. At WSU Vancouver, Dia de los Muertos is celebrated with a free, annual event hosted by ASWSUV, Latin Students Associa-tion, KougRadio and the Spanish Club. Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is traditionally celebrated Nov. 1-2. The first day is dedicated to honoring the souls of children and the second to adults. The celebration stems from a belief that spirits of dead loved ones return to visit during the two-day period. In return, the living pay homage to the deceased in a vari-ety of ways. Survivors of the deceased cre-ate ornate displays of offerings gathered throughout the year to lure the dead and encourage them to visit. Typical offerings include marigolds, images of the dead, short stories, letters, the deceased’s favorite foods and beverages, small mementos, toys for children and alcohol for adults. Families per-sonalize the offerings to honor the deceased’s legacy. The sugar skull, a well-known symbol of the celebration, is based on images from Mexican folk-art. The skull, which represents both

living and dead, is traditionally in-scribed with the recipient’s name. Contrary to popular misconcep-tions, Dia de los Muertos is a time of happiness, a celebration of both life and death. The holiday brings families together to remember, love and honor previous generations. The Dia de los Muertos event at WSU Vancouver presented the holiday’s traditions for the enjoy-ment and cultural enrichment of students and the local commu-nity. The Firstenburg Student Commons was decorated with paper marigolds and decorative skulls. As an example of how tra-ditional altars are built at home, shrines featuring brightly deco-rated images were constructed to honor the Virgin Mary and artist Frida Kahlo. The program included a video of celebrations on traditional turf and a verbal history of the Day of the Dead presented by Maria Lee-Lopez, instructor of Spanish language and culture at WSU Vancouver. Prizes were awarded to participants who could cor-rectly answer holiday trivia ques-tions. Following a buffet meal catered by La Costa Mexican Restaurant, performers played Spanish guitars while attendees toured the shrines. The traditional displays, ethnic cuisine and community outreach

of the event engaged and united a diverse group of individuals to honor those whose mortal lives have passed but who will never be forgotten. Lopez directed every participant’s attention to the true focus of Dia de los Muertos: remembering not how people died, but how they lived.

lively celebration honors the dead Food, music, information and fun make Dia de los Muertos one of WSU Vancouver’s favorite eventsby ken lowe anD emIly SmIth, The VanCougar

Students dream on at aSwSU Diversity Club eventNative American Heritage Month provided inspiration for diversity club event

Are you a dream weaver or a dream catcher? Participants at “Dreamcatchers,” an ASWSUV diversity event on Nov. 18, were a little of both.

While munching on popcorn, pumpkin seeds and cake, approxi-mately 40 WSU Vancouver stu-dents, staff, faculty and their family members wove raffia (to resemble sinew) through the vines of a wil-low wreath, and added beads and feathers to create dreamcatchers.

Dreamcatchers were first designed by the Sioux Nation and were later adopted by other Ameri-can Indian tribes. Today they have

become a symbol of unity among First Nations cultures. According to legend, nightmares will pass through the web of a dreamcatcher and flow out the window, whereas good dreams will catch in the web and slide down the dreamcatcher’s feathers to the sleeper below.

Do they work? “I have [a dreamcatcher]

over my bed and I don’t have bad dreams very often,” said Katlyn Kindt, a WSU Vancouver junior majoring in biology.

Kindt came to the event be-cause she always thought it would be fun to make a dreamcatcher.

Another busy weaver attended for preventive reasons.

“A professor showed me an eye surgery once and I’ve had night-mares ever since,” she said.

Brad Johnston, history club treasurer, said the event planners picked the dreamcatcher activity for its cultural significance during Native American Heritage Month.

“For diversity events, we want to get to know other cultures and we wanted to do something inter-active and family oriented,” said Ashley Willoughby, WSU Vancou-ver senior and ASWSUV diversity event coordinator.

by CynDIe meyer, The VanCougar

aBove: Katie vit, moniCa santos anD shanya porDestop leFt: Katelyn KinDt | Photos by CYNDIE MEYER

aBove: BriGhtly ColoreD DeCorations FilleD Firsten-BurG stuDent Commons at Dia De los muertos eventriGht: stuDents haD their FaCes painteD to resemBle sKulls | photos by EMIlY SMITh

Students are often encouraged to better themselves and their community by giving back to those in need. Volunteer positions are an opportunity to help others while gaining experience, meeting others and learning about the community. WSU Vancouver staff, students and faculty mingled with community service organizations from Portland and southwest Washington at the Volunteer Fair held in the Firstenburg Student Commons on Nov. 15. Whether volunteers enjoy working outside, spending time with kids or organizing special events, there was an opportunity for everyone. Similar to most events held on campus, free snacks and drinks, prizes, raffles and informative handouts were available. Approxi-mately 20 participating agencies set up informational booths and recruited volunteers to help with everything from reading stories to fighting fires. Cori Jones, WSU Vancouver student and ASWSUV officer, said the American Cancer Society had at least 10 interested people visit its table. Jones recruited volun-teers to help with Cancer Society events such as Relay for Life,

which will take place in Camas, Battle Ground and Vancouver this summer. For those whose interests lean toward fashion and shopping, volunteer opportunities could be found at Dress for Success. This non-profit organization provides professional clothing, a career center, workshops and mentor-ship for low-income women. Nature enthusiasts were in demand for the StreamTeam, a Clark Public Utilities program that maintains the watershed along Salmon Creek. Clark County Historical Museum was on the look-out for history buffs and clerical volun-teers. Big Brothers Big Sisters currently needs men to mentor a majority of the children in their program who request male volunteers. “70 percent of our volunteers are women,” said Chambre Vickers, director of community relations and diversity programs with Big Brothers Big Sisters. “Some kids just want someone to do sports with.” Under a new arrangement, WSU Vancouver students can meet with their “little sibling” at

the child’s school campus as a safe and convenient way to hang out. The American Heart Associa-tion needs volunteers to help with their major annual campaigns such as Go Red for Women in Oc-tober and Start! a spring cam-paign that encourages exercise. The American Red Cross needs volunteers to help with blood drives and a variety of other programs. The Red Cross will take a student’s strengths and create a volunteer job description to match. Planned Parenthood offers internship positions in Vancouver and Northeast Portland. Fort Vancouver Regional Library District needs volunteers at many levels, from teen volunteers and teen council members to clerical support and computer class assistants. In addition to volunteer opportunities, the Volunteer Fair encouraged participants to register as organ donors and to find out about campus events, clubs and student groups. The event inspired many future volunteers to find new and fun ways to get involved in the community.

aSwSUV Volunteer Fair promotes community service Local agencies and community groups recruit WSU Vancouver students

by kaItlyn mCClaIn, The VanCougar

Plan a trip to ape Caves

The Ape Caves are located on the south side of Mount St. Helens and are accessed through Woodland (go up highway 503 past Cougar.)

The Ape Caves are open year-round, though the

parking lot gets snowed in during the winter. During the summer, a Northwest Forest Parking Pass is re-

quired, which costs $5/day, $30/season.

When snow comes, a Sno-park pass is required and cavers must walk/snow-

shoe about one mile from the Trail of Two Forests

parking area. Passes can be purchased at the store in Cougar and also at John-ston Ridge Observatory.

The annual pass includes one admission to John-ston Ridge Observatory. For more information

on Mount St. Helens and the Ape Caves, visit www.

mountsainthelens.com.

Student Involvement 7

aBove: ChamBre viCKers, DireCtor oF Community rela-tions anD Diversity proGrams For BiG Brothers BiG sisters, reCruits a Wsu vanCouver stuDent volunteer| photo by KaITlYN MCClaIN

a trek into ape Caves caps fall recreation office events

WSU Vancouver students and staff were not monkeying around when they headed off on a recent trek through Mount St. Helens Ape Caves. They were about to explore the longest volcanic lava tube in the continental United States while encountering rock formations, snow and a giant meatball.

Lava tubes are an unusual formation in the Northwest and, at two miles in length, the Ape Caves have become a local attraction. The caves were discovered in 1947 when Lawrence Johnson’s logging truck fell into a sinkhole. It was explored for the first time in 1950 by a Boy Scout troop that named the cave after its sponsor — a group of foresters known as the St. Helens Apes.

Jonathan Rader, a staff member in the WSU Vancouver recreation

office, organized the day hike thanks to a suggestion from a student who knew of Rader’s famil-iarity with the caves. Rader said he hiked through snow to get to the caves last winter.

“The most noticeable difference in winter is that there are more puddles on the ground from drip-ping water,” said Rader, who has visited the Ape Caves more than nine times.

The trip began on a misty Saturday morning in November. Students majoring in English, me-chanical engineering, psychology, sociology and anthropology took to the road in a caravan travelling north on Highway 503 past Cougar to Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. Tempera-tures dropped and rain fell as the group arrived at the site. The cave

entrance was damp and cold and rain clung to the trees. The explor-ers began to warm up when they started walking inside the cave which maintains a year-round tem-perature of 42 degrees Fahrenheit.

The Ape Caves hike is five miles round trip with an upper and lower path. The WSU Vancouver group followed the lower path first. It can be hiked down and back within one hour. This direction led to an encounter with “the meat-ball,” a famous block of fallen lava located in the center of the sandy trail. Stalagmites and stalactites lined the route and “railroad track” levees, created by the lava flow, formed a shoulder along the path.

Headlamps and flashlights il-luminated the way as the students pressed onward. At several points, the group turned off their lights

and looked back to experience the blackness of the unlit cave.

“I liked the hiking very much,” said Fan Yang, a graduate student in mechanical engineering. “It was really exciting when it was very dark and we needed to use the headlight.”

The upper path took about two-and-one-half hours to hike be-cause of 27 piles of boulders and an eight-foot-high lava wall that had to be scaled. A skylight-like hole on the roof of the path and a metal ladder marked the end of the trail. The group climbed out of the cave to find snow falling on their faces.

“Snowing is my favorite weather,” said Yang.

One snowball fight later, the group exited Mount St. Helens Na-tional Monument and Ape Caves and ventured back to campus in the wet and stormy afternoon. Despite the cold weather, the WSU Vancouver group was enthusiastic about the experience.

“I enjoyed the part when we crossed the rocks,” said Lixin Jiang, WSU Vancouver psychology major.

The Ape Caves trip was the last one sponsored by Recreation Office during fall semester.

If you are interested in spring semester events, contact the the Recreation Office located in Firstenburg Student Commons, Room 136. They are open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and can be reached at 360-546-9532.

by nICole tolmIe, The VanCougar

WSU Vancouver students become cave dwellers for a day

aBove: stuDents explore the ape Caves | photos by NICOlE TOlMIE

8 Student Involvement / Sports, Outdoors and Recreation

If you are a female who has participated in middle or high school sports, count yourself lucky. That opportunity was extremely limited for girls before Title IX was passed in 1971.

In a recent video-stream pre-sentation on the WSU Vancouver campus, Cathryn Claussen, M.A., J.D., director of WSU’s college of education sport management pro-gram in Pullman, discussed Title IX and the progress that has been made since it was passed.

Title IX prohibits discrimina-tion based on gender in federally funded educational programs including physical education. Quoting “Star Wars,” to emphasize how far women’s rights have come, Claussen said, “Not so long ago, in this very same galaxy, competitive sports were reserved exclusively for males.”

She said women were consid-ered frail, pure and delicate. They were not to be harmed and could not show aggressive tendencies. For women, acceptable sports were aesthetically appealing, non-con-tact events such as figure skating and gymnastics, not football and baseball.

From the 1920s to 1960s, college women were allowed to try sports on designated “play” or “sports days.” These were not sports as we know them today, but were similar to non-competitive middle school P.E. classes. Par-ticipants did not practice sports beforehand; they learned them at the event.

Things began to change in the 1970s when Title IX was passed. At first, schools and communi-ties struggled to decide whether Title IX entitled equality or equity regarding sports. Equality would

guarantee the same sports and the same money to both women and men. They debated the practical-ity of having football for girls or spending equal amounts of money on a boys’ football team and a girls’ soccer team. Claussen explained that equity was preferred at the time as it offered comparable participation, scholarship, quality of coaching, equipment, facilities and publicity.

The National Collegiate Ath-letic Association, the organization in charge of men’s college sports, worried whether there would be decreased money for men’s football and basketball if more was spent on women’s athletics. The Associa-tion for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women worried that women would drop out of sports if men dominated co-ed teams.

By 1996, sports programs had to comply with at least one of three options to meet standards of equity under Title IX. The first option calls for the percentage of female athletes to match the percentage of female undergraduate students. Option 2 requires the program to demonstrate proven history and continuing practice, like adding and changing programs to meet Title IX standards. Under the third option, programs must accom-modate both interest and ability. If females are able and interested in programs, programs must be made available for them.

Claussen said Title IX has definitely had impact. Today more women earn advanced degrees and there are more lawsuits for equitable women’s facilities and schedules. As a result, practice times are now fairer for both sexes and both men’s and women’s games are better scheduled to match

recruiters’ trips.Since 1971, more women are

participating in sports at the col-lege and high school levels, but the numbers are still well below men’s numbers. In 1971, 30,000 females took part in college sports compared with 170,000 male ath-letes. Today, 40 years after Title IX, 191,000 women and 253,000 men play college sports. The numbers for high school females increased by an even larger amount, going from 294,000 in 1971 to 3.2 million in 2011. Participation among high school males grew from 3.7 mil-lion to 4.5 million over the same period. Claussen finds it encourag-ing that an increasing number of females are showing an interest in sports at younger ages.

Claussen questions whether equity was the right decision. Would equality have had more impact? Issues that remain include participation opportunities, types of sports, budgets and hiring practices for females that are not equitable to males. She fears that women may drop out of sports because there is less peer support, less media coverage and fewer role models for female athletes. She hopes the progress of the U.S. women’s soccer team in the FIFA women’s world cup this past year will help.

Although there is less news coverage of women’s sports, there are occasional stories about local girls participating in high school and middle school football or wrestling. By the way, for the past two years, most of the sports and recreation articles in The VanCou-gar have been written by women.

Claussen said television networks fear women’s sports will not sell well and people will watch men’s sports because they

think they are more exciting. She added that commercial sponsors of televised sports often use sex ap-peal in advertising which does not advance women. This has carried over into televised women’s sports. Claussen said female boxers have recently been asked to wear skirts, female soccer players to wear tighter shorts and we all know what beach volleyball players wear. She is concerned that emphasiz-ing those elements detracts from women’s involvement and perfor-mance in the sport itself.

Toys have also evolved since 1971. For example, the 1999 Barbie doll “Bowling Champ” provided a sporty version of the “ideal woman.”

“But we all know Barbie can’t even lift a bowling ball with those skinny arms,” said Claussen.

How have the three options for meeting Title IX equity held up? Eighty percent of schools do not meet option 1 (the equal percent-age of female undergraduates and athletes), but meet one of the other two. However, according to Claussen, schools try to circum-vent Title IX requirements. They will cut male participants instead of adding women. They conduct interest surveys via email, and count non-responses as “no inter-est in sports,” thereby short-cir-cuiting option 3 (accommodation of interest and ability.) Although women’s basketball teams may expand from 15 to 25 players, the last 10 often don’t get to play and men practicing against women are somehow counted as female athletes.

When will America know that Title IX has evened the playing field for women? Claussen suggests the following indicators: when

females get matching football programs or when male football programs run out of money; when females are just as interested in sports as males and have no need to justify it; and when there are no legal challenges. The day men’s teams are coached by women and option 1 is met by all schools will indicate women’s sports are finally “there,” said Claussen.

How do women’s sports stack up at WSU? Claussen reported that the university recently hired a new football coach, an expensive investment. She hopes women will also receive improvements such as comparable uniform sets and stadi-ums. WSU currently has five men’s sports and eight women’s sports. WSU Pullman’s undergraduate population is 47 percent female and 50 percent of the athletes are female. Branch campuses do not have sports programs.

According to their website, a Title IX committee in Pullman is “charged with monitoring, evaluat-ing and determining if sex equity exists in the areas of Financial Aid, Student Housing, Admis-sions, Intercollegiate Athletics and Compensation, and with coor-dinating the university’s efforts to comply with and carry out its responsibilities under Title IX and its implementing regulations, including the investigation of Title IX complaints.”

title IX at 39: are women exercising their right to play?

by Sarah CUSanellI, The VanCougar

A WSU expert on the evolution of women’s sports, shares her findings about the impact of Title IX

Climbing event rocks!WSU Vancouver students experience new recreational opportunity at The Source Climbing Center

Climbers rejoice! A new indoor opportunity for recreation has opened in Vancouver. The Source Climbing Center, located at 1118 Main Street, is the first indoor climbing facility located in south-west Washington. It offers top-rope courses, lead-climbing routes and bouldering patterns in levels from beginning to advanced. Rock climbing is a popular outdoor recreational sport in our region and the opening of the in-door gym in Vancouver has drawn plenty of attention. Jonathan Rader, WSU Vancouver recre-

ation assistant and environmental science major, said he is excited there’s a rock gym on this side of town. WSU Vancouver’s Recreation Office held an event at The Source on Nov. 12, the night after its grand opening. It was attended by 43 students, including many first-time climbers. “The event was very well orga-nized. I met a lot of new people, and it was a lot of fun,” said Gary Nasca, a WSU Vancouver humani-ties major. “This would be an ex-cellent place to bring a first date!”

The Source provides a place to learn, experience and develop technique in rock climbing, and is an affordable place for students to spend time away from school. Since the grand opening, The Source has added new technology and climbing opportunities includ-ing new climbing patterns and two auto-belay devices which make climbing top rope a breeze.

Founders Michael Lary and Hanz Kroesen and their staff are experienced climbers. The resident dog, Coava, provides moral sup-port. The gym also features a chil-

dren’s climbing area equipped with a slide, enhancing The Source’s appeal for families. Novice climbers are welcome at The Source. The climbing center offers classes, equipment rent-als and a friendly staff to teach, encourage and help climbers learn while (hopefully) having fun. More information is avail-able on The Source’s website: www.thesourceclimbing.com and at facebook.com/SourceClimbing. Another Cougar Climb is planned from 6 to 9 p.m., Jan. 22. The fee is $5. Sign up now!

by kImberly lawrenCe, Contributing Writer

Climbing vocabulary a bit rocky? rope in a few

new climbing terms!

Belay: To keep the climber safe by controlling the rope.Belay device: Usually a metal device which the belayer uses to control the rope. There are several types of devices, all creating friction against the rope, allowing the belayer to catch a falling climber.Boulder: A rock short enough to climb without a rope in relative safety.Bouldering: Climbing low to the ground without a rope.Free Climb: To climb upward using only the natural rock features and man-made gear for protection.Lead Climbing: To climb up a particular pitch first in order to set up the belay for the rest of the climbing party.Top Roping: Belay setup in which the climber is held tightly by a rope that runs from the harness to an anchor above the climber’s head.

WSU Vancouver students and faculty who want to give back to their community can do so through Share House, a non-profit organization established to help those in need throughout Clark County.

“The mission of Share is to lead the hungry and homeless to self-sufficiency by providing food, shelter, housing, education and compassion through the strength of our community,” said Diane McWithey, executive director of Share.

Volunteers and workers at the Vancou-ver-based organization are matched with the work that appeals to them most. There are opportunities for working with individual children, teenagers, adults and

entire families. “All are welcome,” McWithey said. “Our

goal is to link the volunteer with the most meaningful opportunity so they come back to volunteer again. We appreciate that our volunteers are willing to bring their expertise to our clients and help move our clients forward on their path to self-sufficiency.”

McWithey said Share House has volunteers from many organizations, groups and individuals, including WSU Vancouver students.

“It is extremely rewarding to know that you are making it possible for someone to receive a warm, delicious meal assisting a struggling second grader with his or her

math homework and seeing that child pass the test at school, or hosting a movie night at the shelter for families who do not have the means to afford that kind of experience,” said McWithey. “We encourage creativity in our volunteers. We have had people come in to teach Zumba classes. We’ve had groups organize a craft night for children. We have groups that organize a summer festival at our family shelters.”

Although the spirit of giving back is most evident during the holiday season, Jessica Lightheart, Share community relations director, said volunteers are always needed.

“In 2010, 3,411 volunteers gave their time in support of Share programs for a total of

77,258 hours. We need our volunteers not only to supplement our paid staff, but also to bring the creativity and vitality that is necessary for the continued growth of our organization,” said Lightheart.

Residents of Share House are not the only ones who benefit from the service of volunteers.

“I am told by many of our volunteers, that they receive more in volunteering than they give,” McWithey said.

For more information, visit www.sharevancouver.org.

give from the heart at Vancouver Share houseVolunteers make a difference in the lives of Clark County’s hungry and homelessBY MARGARITA TOPAL, The VanCougar

For many college students, a home-cooked meal consists of ramen or pizza. If you love food and want to learn more about cooking and eating a healthy diet, Chef Sophie Lapaire’s cooking classes offered through Vancouver/Clark Parks and Recreation may be an enjoyable and affordable option.

Lapaire has travelled the world teaching people that food should be natural, organic, healthy and delicious. This month, she celebrates one year of teaching vegan cooking classes through parks and recre-ation. Students who are interested in adopting a kinder, more sustainable diet or who have dietary allergies and restrictions may enjoy her approach to the kitchen. Lapaire teaches her students how

to prepare delicious, international, vegan dishes that work around common food allergies with easy substitutes and basic practical nutrition for the entire family.

The thing Lapaire enjoys most about teaching the classes is sharing cooking secrets and empowering students to discover new ways to create healthier and more delicious dishes they can easily make at home.

“Most of my students want more and longer classes,” said Lapaire.

Lapaire’s classes are held at Firstenburg Community Center or Clark College. There is a $35 fee per class. Register by calling the Firstenburg Community Center, 360-487-7001. For more informa-tion, visit kindcooking.com.

Cook up a healthier life in 2012Take a class and learn a healthy lifestyleBY MARGARITA TOPAL, The VanCougar

If your New Year’s fitness reso-lutions include walking, jogging or biking, the trails around the WSU Vancouver campus may be your path to wellness. Many of today’s health programs recommend walk-ing 10,000 steps per day to stay in shape and control weight. This adds up to approximately five miles per day and will burn off 2,000 to 3,500 calories (or one pound of fat) per week. Walking or jogging the WSU Vancouver trail system is one route toward accomplishing this goal.

The WSU Vancouver Cougar Trails Project includes more than six miles of interpretive trails that crisscross the campus. The Mill Creek Riparian Interpretive Trail, a special section of the campus trail system, is designed to expand the walker’s knowledge and under-standing of the ecological functions of plant and soil systems that border a waterway. Information posted along the way explains why maintaining good water quality in Mill Creek is necessary to preserve a healthy environment for the fish, wildlife and people who live in and along the creek.

This section of trails on the lower southeast side of campus winds

through forested areas, passes a pond, curves around the butterfly meadow and bridges across Mill Creek. A new trail map links several trail sections to make up a 1.7-mile walk or hike. Designated jogging paths and interpretive trails provide an all-weather walk-ing surface wide enough for two people. The other unimproved trails are typical of what you would find in many forested areas of the region.

The Cougar Trails system has been featured for more than five years in “The Clark County Walk Around Guide” as one of the 10 best walks in the region. Earlier this fall, WSU Vancouver revised the trail map (shown below) to in-clude boardwalk segments, a new path around the WSU Vancouver barn and other path revisions. Di-rectional signs posted throughout campus will be updated to reflect the new map by July 2012.

John Benson, grounds and nursery specialist for WSU Van-couver facilities and operations, reports that further enhancements are planned for the trail system this year.

“[Improvements] will include adding boardwalk to soggy areas

[to] benefit stream quality. Also drainage and re-applying chips to certain trail lengths are being scheduled right now for Cougar Pride Days, tentatively scheduled for the week prior to Earth Day,” said Benson.

Benson notes that new trail development is not part of the current plan.

“Although [the university has] the real estate, that is not the only consideration. There are many new and exciting trails we could install, but budgetary constraints, environ-mental impacts and security are just a few contributing factors that go into additional trail planning,” said Benson. “As the campus grows, so too can the trail system.”

This year’s improvements to the WSU Vancouver trail system are funded in part by a donation of $10,000 from ASWSUV and individual community members. Any remaining costs would be covered through the facilities and operations budget for grounds maintenance, said Benson.

The trails are open to the public seven days a week. It is not unusual for WSU students, staff and faculty to find local residents walking or jogging with their dogs on campus trails. Although dedicated walkers report that the trails are a little soggy and muddy in the winter, they say the walkways are beautiful in the spring, summer and fall.

If inclement weather keeps you from enjoying the trails this winter, the treadmill in the fitness center is always waiting.

Sports, Outdoors and Recreation 9

all campus trails lead to health

by CynDIe meyer, The VanCougar

Improved trails and a new map offer convenient walking and hiking options

D

G

B

E

F

A

C

Clark Collegebuilding

ParkingRecreation court and picnic areas

To WSU Vancouver Public Safety& Facilities/Operations

To WSU VancouverMain Campus

Amphitheater

Parking

Parking

Parking Services

Classroombuilding

Engineering/Life Sciences

building

Undergraduate Classroom building

Physical Plantbuilding

Engineering & Computer Science

building

Multimedia Classroom building

Dengerink Administration building

McClaskeybuildingSport fields

Disc Golf Field

Library

FirstenburgFamily Fountain

FirstenburgStudent Commons

Student Services Center

NE 160th

St.

Power Line

Power Line

Field

ParkingPublic Safety

Pond

ButterflyMeadow

To 50th AvenueEntrance

NorthHay Field

Hay Field

SouthHay Field

Mill

Creek

HayField

WSUBarn

PioneerCabin

Salmon

Creek

Avenue

NS

W

E

cougar trailsForested Area

Pond

Campus Building

Parking

Paved Bike and Walking Trail

Jogging Trail

Creek

Interpretive Trail

Paved Road

Gravel Road

TRAIL DISTANCESJogging Trail Segments:

Distances (in miles):

A - B 0.4

B - C 0.2

C - D 0.2

D - E 0.4

E - F 0.1

F - A 0.2

Total Loop (A,B,C,D,E,F,A):

1.5 miles

InterpretiveTrail Segments:

Distances (in miles):

D - C 0.2

C - B 0.2

B - G 0.1

G - F 0.2

Trail Length: 0.7 miles

Total Loop(D,C,B,G,F,E,D) 1.1 miles

gluten Free and happyJan. 26, 5-6:30 p.m.

Firstenburg Community Center

Savory SoyFeb. 2, 5-6:30 p.m.

Firstenburg Community Center

Vegan Cooking for lifelong health

Feb. 23, 6–8:30 p.m. Clark College, CTC 153

moroccan banquet nightMarch 8, 6-8:30 p.m.

Clark College, CTC 153

Delicious Diets for Diabetics

March 22, 6-7:30 p.m. Firstenburg Community Center

class offerings

BY MARGARITA TOPAL, The VanCougar

10 Features

kUDoS!The VanCougar is a student-managed and student-operated organization. Each month, the Editor-in-chief recognizes two individuals for outstanding ef-fort and achievement.

In November, VanCougar Sec-tion Editor Margarita Topal was recognized as employee of the month and Reporter Sarah Cusanelli was named reporter of the month.

Congratulations!

Have you met one of nearly 180 U.S. military veterans attend-ing school at WSU Vancouver? Attracted by WSU’s tuition waiver policy and the GI Bill, veterans account for nearly six percent of the university’s student body. Tuition assistance programs, a va-riety of campus services, the Vet-erans Education Interest Group, and an on-campus Veterans Corp volunteer help smooth the veterans’ transition from military to civilian life.

“Most vets on campus are at least 22 years old and their time in the military makes them dif-ferent from students who come to college straight from high school,” said Amanda Hicks, Navy veteran and president of VEIG.

Nick Ortiz, WSU Vancouver Vet Corps volunteer and junior elementary education major, agrees.

“For many vets, being on cam-pus feels claustrophobic. There are so many people,” he said.

Ortiz is the liaison for vets in search of off-campus services such as medical benefits, mental health care, emergency housing and work-study programs. His office in Library building, room 204 is equipped with a phone and computer that vets can use. He can be reached at n.ortiz@vet-corps.org.

According to Hicks, WSU Vancouver provides an array of

on-campus services for vets with disabilities.

“The university coordinates testing to determine if and what type of disability a vet may have. Then, if qualified, the vet can receive tutoring assistance, help with note taking and other ser-vices,” said Hicks.

Hicks and Ortiz are both active in VEIG, a club formed last year as a partnership between WSU Vancouver and the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs to provide academic and social support for on-campus veterans.

“VEIG is open to all veterans on the WSU Vancouver campus,” said Hicks. “We currently have about 20 members and we would love to see more vets join.”

Membership has been a chal-lenge for the fledgling organiza-tion.

“It’s hard to get vets to con-

gregate and do stuff together especially when people have been telling them what to do for so long,” said Ortiz.

According to Hicks, VEIG is currently planning a workshop on veteran’s benefits and work-study opportunities. Information about VEIG is available on Cougsync.

Diane Binder, veterans affairs representative at WSU Vancouver said many student veterans find their biggest challenge is starting veterans education benefits, com-monly known as GI Bill entitle-ments.

“GI Bill” refers to the original

“Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944” which initiated educa-tion stipends and other benefits for military personnel returning from World War II. In 2008 Con-gress enacted the post-9/11 GI Bill which ties veterans’ education entitlements to the number of years served in the armed forces.

Beginning Sept. 9, 2009, veterans who serve three or more years receive 100 percent of in-state tuition at a public university for 36 months of school. Full-time students may also receive up to $1,299 per month in housing assistance and a $1,000 stipend towards books each year. Govern-ment benefits are reduced for vets who serve less time. However, WSU provides tuition waivers for these veterans which can cover up to an additional 50 percent of their college expenses.

“We [the campus veterans affairs office] have an open-door policy,” said Binder. “We are happy to serve our vets and they know they can come to see us anytime if they have any ques-tions.”

U.S. Marine Corps veteran Jason Heins, a criminal justice and psychology major at WSU Vancouver, feels that even more services are necessary to help to-day’s returning veterans. Heins at-tended a 12-hour transition class intended to help veterans ease into civilian life, but he would like to see additional programs.“It would be helpful if there were more programs to help military men adapt, know what to say and how to go into an interview,” said Heins.

Programs and benefits ease veterans’transition to campus life

by nICole tolmIe, The VanCougar

Seminar connects confidence and successLocal leaders share advice with WSU Vancouver students

“Believe in yourself and the world will believe in you,” was the inspiring quote Avaly Mobbs, executive director of the Building Industry Associa-tion, said at the Nov. 15 segment of “Sex. Confi-dence. Drive.,” a three-part seminar series sponsored by the WSU Vancouver Office of Student Involvement.

Mobbs’ statement summed up the theme of the day’s panel discussion which also included Michelle McIlvoy, student involve-ment manager at WSU Vancouver,

and Denis Macrigeanis, senior vice president at Waggener Edstrom Worldwide.

Monica Santos-Pinacho, a WSU

Vancouver OSI intern and series coordinator, said the series focuses on personal growth. This segment, second in the series, addressed the topic of confidence. On Jan. 20, the series will conclude with atten-

dance at Portland State University’s 10th annual Leadership Confer-ence.

At the seminar, McIlvoy started by saying she believes her career confidence began with a firm un-derstanding of her own strengths and weaknesses. McIlvoy said that once she knew where she excelled, she felt confident answering job interview questions about her suc-cesses and overcoming challenges. McIlvoy added that confident people will say “Yes, I can do that,” to a given challenge based on what they already know of themselves.

“It’s hard to have other people believe in you if you don’t believe in yourself,” McIlovy said.

Mobbs added to McIlvoy’s message, emphasizing the need for confidence, “Avoid being boastful, but celebrate when you succeed,” said Mobbs. “A hiring manager will never know what a student can do until it is shared by the student. Toot your own horn.”

Macrigeanis agreed with Mobbs and McIlvoy. She said today’s students need to be confident in presenting their qualifications. She cautioned students not to self-deprecate.

“The only person who is going to take care of your career is you. Take it into your own hands,” said Macrigeanis.

“The only person who is going to take care of your

career is you.”- Denis Macrigeanis

“The Veterans’ Education andInterest Group is open to

all veterans on theWSU Vancouver campus.”

- Amanda Hicks, VEIG president

by loUISe tollISen, The VanCougar

have you thanked a veteran today?

The freedom and lib-erty that Americans enjoy is earned and protected by the sacrifice and service of past and present military veterans. Every November since 1919, Americans have acknowl-edged their gratitude for this service on Veteran’s Day.

On Nov. 9, the VEIG and the Human Interest Club facilitated an opportunity for WSU Vancouver staff, students and faculty to create individualized thank-you cards at Firstenburg Student Commons. On Veterans Day, Nov. 11, the clubs delivered the cards to vets at the Port-land and Vancouver campuses of the Portland VA Medical Center.

“Last year, 430 cards were created at the event.” said biol-ogy major, Amanda Hicks, VEIG club president. “Our goal this year was 500.”

Evan Moriwaki, a WSU Vancouver student, attended the event. “Our campus should support veterans,” said Moriwaki. “We need to understand [veteran’s] needs so we can understand how to fill them.” Moriwaki plans to join the military after gradua-tion. After serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, he hopes to at-tend graduate school to study psychology with the help of his GI Bill benefits.

Nick Ortiz, who has served in the Army National Guard for the past 11 years, said he is often appreciated for his service.

“I get thanked all the time, everywhere I go. Most of my teachers have thanked me for serving,” said Ortiz.

Sign up now for DrIVe.DRIVE, the third part of the “Sex. Confidence. Drive.” series

will take place from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 20.

Participants will be transported to Portland State University to attend the 10th Annual Leadership Conference.

breakfast, lunch and a pizza dinner are included.

Participants will arrive back on campus by 6:30 p.m. The event is free, but there is limited space available. Register early at OSI in the

Firstenburg Student Commons.

Tuition assistance, medical benefits and other services are available to foster the success of returning vets

take the VanCougarreader’s Survey !

you could win a $50 giftcertificate to The bookie!

Details on the back pageand on-line at

tinyurl.com/Vancougarsurvey

“Shadow of the Colossus” still casts a great shadow

Do you know who you are? (continued from previous issue)Myers-Briggs gives insight into students’ personalities.

The new year usually heralds the release of long-awaited video games. But when mid-January rolls around and many have yet to hit the market, anxious gamers look for something to fill the gap. Per-haps this is just the time to revisit a classic game: Sony’s “Shadow of the Colossus.”

“Shadow,” which debuted on Playstation 2 only six years ago, is too new to be considered a classic by those who reserve this term for Nintendo-era games of the 1980s and 1990s. But “classic” means more than “old.” A classic game retains high artistic quality regard-less of the passage of time and “Shadow” certainly does this.

Although the graphics may seem visually dated to modern gamers, its true charm was never in the visuals anyway. “Shadow” is a game that exists to showcase two things: story and scale. Make no mistake, it knocks these out of the park.

Wholly sincere in the presenta-tion of an unlikely hero faced with a monumental challenge, “Shadow” is a shining example of a straight-forward story. The plot follows a boy as he enters a forbidden land seeking the power to revive the girl he loves. Along the way, he must locate and slay 16 colossi, or giants.

That’s it, no fancy gimmicks or sudden plot twists. The only char-acters are the boy, his trusty horse and 16 enormous colossi. From start to finish, the boy uses nothing but a sword, a bow and arrow, and his own wits to defeat his enemies. Although dialog is minimal, the actions of the nameless protagonist

stir the sympathy of gamers. He is not a superhero, just a kid who must complete an impossible task. If he stumbles as the colossi rattle the earth, or holds on for dear life as they try to shake him off, the gamer is right there with him, cheering him on.

“Shadow” is serious in terms of scale. In fact, it is epic, which by definition, means it is “impressive by virtue of greatness of size, scope or heroism.” The animated setting is vast and open. The colossi them-selves nearly defy description, tow-ering over entire mountains and causing the ground to quake with every step. Best of all, the game’s pace allows time for the gamer to absorb and relish the setting, the characters and the plot.

“Shadow” is the perfect antidote to the long gray days of January and February. Gamers can buy a copy for about $20 (less if used) at video game stores such as Gamestop or online at amazon.com. Rental copies are available at gamefly.com for about $8 per month. The game is also available in PS2 format. Used or refurbished Playstation 2 gaming consoles cost $30 to $40 or can be purchased at approximately $100 new.

“Shadow” is a sincere and heartfelt tale. The graphics are elegant and the musical score is impressive. Its simplicity and style prove that good games can accom-plish a lot with very little. Although many games are likely to make their debut in 2012, classics like “Shadow of the Colossus” should not be left behind.

Do you play well with others? Do people say you have a good personality? Have you ever experi-enced a “personality conflict” with someone you know?

Personality is what makes us who we are. By understanding what makes people “tick,” we can gauge potential career interests and learn to better manage our relationships with others.

The Myers-Briggs Type Indica-tor (MBTI) is one of the most fre-quently used and best-known tests for assessing personality. At WSU Vancouver, the Student Resource Center offers the MBTI assessment on a frequent basis and encourages students to take it.

“The Myers-Briggs examines different ways people interact with the world. It is a framework for understanding peoples’ commu-nication styles and preferences. The Myers-Briggs [indicator] gives students ideas about careers to ex-plore. It doesn’t make the student’s decision about what to major in, but it shows them possible paths and can help to focus them,” said Christine Lundeen, WSU Vancou-ver career counselor and assess-ment facilitator.

The MBTI categorizes the assessment-takers’ answers into one of 16 personality types. Each type reflects the individual’s preference for the way he/she gains energy, gathers information,

makes decisions and deals with the outside world. If you’ve ever said that someone is “not your type,” the MBTI might shed a whole new light on that statement.

In the following scenarios, fictitious characters are used to demonstrate the differences in how people with opposite indicator types might react to the same situa-tion. As you read, do you recognize traits of your own?

Thinking vs. feelingAlice, an undergraduate at

WSU Vancouver, is enrolled in classes taught by Professor Lewis and Professor Jane. Halfway through the semester, Alice has a family emergency, misses school and is unable to complete assign-ments in both classes. When she returns and she submits her over-due homework, Lewis refuses to accept it saying that it is unfair to other students who completed the assignment on time. Conversely, Jane accepts Alice’s paper and gives her full credit, saying she under-stands Alice’s situation.

Lewis has an analytical approach to life and could be classified in the MBTI “thinking” category while Jane, who exhibits more empathy, might be consid-ered a “feeling” person. Thinkers are able to pull back from a situ-ation and use a cause-and-effect or a pro-and-con approach to

problem solving. Because they rely primarily on logic to inform their decisions, MBTI thinkers are often seen as tough-minded individuals who value everyone equally. They gain energy by critiquing and solv-ing problems.

Feelers are empathetic and are guided by personal values. They often consider how decisions will impact other people and strive for harmonious interactions with others. Because they are compas-sionate, feelers are often perceived as tenderhearted individuals who value other’s individuality and needs. They are energized when they support and appreciate others.

judging vs. perceivingTwo undergraduates named

Jill and Andrew are partners on a project in Professor Jane’s class. Jill wants to tackle the project by planning the research and adhering to a schedule. Andrew thinks Jill is being too rigid. He thinks they should address parts of the project as needed and be flexible with their schedule. Jill’s work approach is methodical and Andrew likes to play things by ear. Andrew’s approach stresses Jill whereas Andrew feels confined by Jill’s orderliness.

Why are Jill and Andrew butt-ing heads? Their personality types differ. Jill is classified as “judging” on the MBTI, whereas Andrew is

classified as “perceiving.” Those with judging preference prefer schedules and make short- and long-term plans. They prefer deci-sions to be made and settled and try to avoid last-minute stress. Sticking to a plan and schedule is important to them, and they are energized by getting things done.

Andrew, a perceiving individu-al, prefers to live in a flexible, spon-taneous way and change course to adapt to varying situations. Percievers are open to new infor-mation and last-minute options, feeling invigorated by last-minute pressure. Experiencing life rather than controlling it is important to them, and they are energized by their own resourcefulness at adapt-ing to the moment’s demands.

Using your results MBTI results can be used to

determine which career clusters use a person’s dominant strengths or preferences. Certain careers fit better for specific psychologi-cal types. For example, someone who scores high on the introvert-sensing-thinking-judging (ISTJ) scale would typically do well in the role of physician, lawyer, business executive,or computer program-mer. An introvert-sensing-feeling-judging (ISFJ) person is more likely to be successful as a designer, nurse, counselor, child develop-ment specialist or office manager.

Features 11

by aDam balDwIn, The VanCougar

by kelSey SmIth, The VanCougar

12 Features

reader’s Survey

10. what type of advertising would you like to find in The VanCougar?

� Ads for campus programs � Ads for community programs and services � Retail ads � Coupons � Classified ads (housing options, items for sale) � Personal ads (birthday greetings, love notes)

13. Please note other constructive comments or advice here:

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2. If you are a student, what year are you?

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3. what is your gender?

� Male � Female

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5. If you attended wSU in prior years, how often did you read The VanCougar?

� Every issue � Three times per year � Once a year � Never

If you answered “never,” please state why:

___________________________________________

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6. what length of articles do you prefer to read?

� Headline news � Short news briefs � Long, in-depth reports � Multi-issue features

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7. how would you prefer to receive campus news?

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11. what topics would you like to read about in The VanCougar?

� Administration news � Faculty/staff news � Academic department news � Research studies (this campus) � Research studies (all WSU campuses) � Student government � Student activities � Campus Calendar � News about other WSU campuses � Community events � Local business news � Opinions of students/faculty/staff � National politics � Regional politics � Sports - professional � Sports - WSU Pullman � Sports - Local/Intramural � Outdoors and recreation � Biographical/personal interest features � Technology reviews � Video games � Entertainment - movies, theater, TV � Food - Restaurant reviews � Health, fitness, nutrition � Volunteer opportunities � Internships � Environment and sustainability concerns � Social justice � Poetry/creative writing � Photography � Local art scene � Music, concerts, recordings � Travel � Fashion � Puzzles � Comics � Jokes � Horoscope � Personal advice � Other:

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