CAMPUS CORNER
TAKE BACK THE NIGHT: THE MOVEMENT TO END SEXUAL VIOLENCE
By: Julia Savala
Take Back the Night (TBTN) has been an ongoing movement for over 60 years. It is a non-profit organization run by volunteers and supported by sponsors and donors. According to their site, “Take Back The Night’s global mission as a charitable 501(c)(3) Foundation is to end sexual violence in all forms, including sexual assault, sexual abuse, trafficking, stalking, gender harassment and relationship violence, and to support survivors in their healing journeys.” TBTN has organized protests, rallies, speak-outs and initiatives in over 15 countries. Their statement goes on to say, “We foster safe communities through international events and initiatives. Take Back The Night Events unite people from every background, belief, and culture around the world to take a visible and vocal stand.” TBTN is a movement that inspires people to take time out of the year to show support to survivors, resulting in campuses all around the world recognizing Sexual Assault Awareness Month. La Sierra University, with the help of the social work department, is one of the many universities that organize events surrounding this movement.
The TBTN movement began in the ‘70s when media attention pointed toward incidents of sexual violence throughout the United States. In 1972, women at the University of Southern Florida demanded resources and safety for women on campus. In 1976, the movement reached people internationally as women from over 40 countries met in Belgium to advocate for the safety of women on the streets. Today, TBTN continues to organize rallies, both in-person and online due to COVID-19 limitations. TBTN partners with different artists, like graphic designers, musicians and writers, around the world who all support the movement. This collaboration allows awareness to be raised through different mediums of art, which empowers both the artists and the movement.
In a similar spirit, the La Sierra University social work department recognizes Sexual Assault Awareness Month through events coordinated by Professor Marni Straine, PhD and Professor Daphne Thomas. The events are hosted during Sexual Assault Awareness Week, which is the last week of April. Past events include self-defense classes, Chapel sermons and a Chalk the Walk event to write messages of support and positivity on the campus walkway.
La Sierra also participates in Denim Day, which will take place on April 24 this year. Denim Day began in response to the overturning of a rape conviction by the Italian Supreme Court. This decision relied on the basis that the victim was wearing tight jeans. From this, they inferred that she must have helped the person who raped her remove her jeans, thereby implying consent. Therefore, students are encouraged to wear, donate and write messages of hope on denim in solidarity with rape survivors and to protest against unfounded rulings like these.
This year, the social work department is expanding the planning of TBTN events with other departments on campus, such as the chemistry department, the communication department, OSI, Spiritual Life and more. These departments will plan their own events for Sexual Assault Awareness Week. This collaboration will bring the entire campus together to recognize the movement of TBTN. The social work department also has invited a sexual and mental health educator based in a Riverside Planned Parenthood to speak at chapel that week.
To donate or find TBTN events, you can visit their website at TakeBacktheNight.org. TBTN also offers legal assistance to those who are survivors of sexual violence. You can fill out the form on their website, or call their hotline at 567-SHATTER (567-742-8837). Regarding more information about TBTN at La Sierra University, you can email mstraine@lasierra.edu or dthomas@lasierra.edu. We invite all students to attend the Take Back the Night events in April and urge everyone to take a stand against sexual violence.
Communication Department’s Annual San Diego Safari Park Field Trip
By: Raja Walley
As spring approaches, La Sierra University’s communication department prepares for its annual field trip to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. This field trip has been a communication department tradition for over 10 years, allowing those in attendance to enjoy a day admiring wildlife. Within this trip, individuals can expect to see a variety of unique gardens and animals from all around the world. From exotic Rodrigues flying foxes to quirky platypuses, this wildlife excursion brings excitement and adventure. The trip will take place on April 7. This school outing is open to all, including students, faculty, friends and family.
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park offers a selection of activities and exploration sites for all ages. In past field trips to this safari park, students were able to watch enchanting bird shows and the infamous cheetah run, which showcases a cheetah racing a dog on a 330-foot track, as stated within the Safari Park Script Guide. Another popular attraction that is included with admission is the Africa Tram Safari, which offers a ride through savanna habitats for an up-close wildlife encounter. For further information on other activities available, visit the activities page on the San Diego Zoo Safari Park Website.
Tickets to attend this excursion are available until April 3. These tickets are $25 per person, payable in cash only, and can be purchased through the chair of the communication department, Dr. Melissa Tafoya. To access tickets, visit Tafoya’s office in Gladwyn Hall Room 113, her student worker in Gladwyn Room 118 or purchase via email at mtafoya@lasierra.edu. Students and staff can purchase as many tickets as they would like. Finally, while parking is included in the cost of tickets, participants must acquire their own means to the safari park.
Once tickets are purchased, students can collect them on the day of the trip from Tafoya by the entrance of the Safari Park. Students can find Tafoya on the left side of the Safari Park entrance upon arrival. Since the communication department is purchasing tickets as a group, attendees must be at the Safari Park by 9:00 a.m. to enter together at 9:30 a.m. After entering the park, all attendees can then venture on their own and are not required to stay with the La Sierra group during this trip.
This annual San Diego Safari Park field trip sponsored by the communication department is an opportunity to get out and enjoy wildlife. For more information or questions regarding this event, please email communication@lasierra.edu.
Fairs, Festivals and Parades in Riverside County
By: Raja walley
There are many events that Riverside County residents can look forward to during this winter season. These festivities connect the community to various cultures and traditions present in Riverside. Three upcoming Riverside County events are the Black History Expo and Parade, the Eastvale Lantern Festival and the Riverside County Fair.
On Feb. 11, the 44th annual Black History Parade and Expo will be held in Downtown Riverside, on Main Street from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Because February is nationally recognized as Black History Month, this gathering allows the African American community to recognize and commemorate the lives of those who made a difference for African Americans in the United States of America. The parade includes marching ensembles, dancers and decorated cars from participating members. The expo has live performances, educational teachings on history and literature, artwork and more. People of all ages are encouraged to attend. The City of Riverside’s official website contains more information on this event.
Following the Black History Parade and Expo is the 2nd annual Eastvale Lantern Festival hosted at Roosevelt High School. This weekend event takes place on Saturday, Feb. 17 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 18 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The festival celebrates the Lunar New Year with cultural performances rooted in various Asian traditions. Within the Eastvale Lantern Festival, there will be performances, such as traditional Mongolian folk dances and Japanese Taiko drumming. In addition to these performances, cultural food and activities will be presented to appreciate Asian culture in the Riverside community. This event is also free to attend and encourages all to attend. More information can be found on PananaEvents.com.
A great way to end February is to attend the Riverside County Fair. Originating as a celebration of Coachella Valley's Date Palm Harvest in 1947, this 10-day event now celebrates its 76th anniversary. The Riverside County Fair is held in Indio, California from Feb. 16 to Feb. 25. It will have monster truck shows, a demo derby, a rodeo organized by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) and live concert performances by Smash Mouth and Diamond Rio. Tickets for each event are available for purchase online at DateFest.org.
The Riverside County Fair, Black History Expo and Parade, and Eastvale Lantern Festival allow individuals to engage in different cultural traditions and customs this season. From traditional dances, parade shows and harvest celebrations, individuals can celebrate, embrace and connect as they share their culture with their local communities.
A DEEPER LOOK INTO LA SIERRA UNIVERISTY’S BLACK STUDENT UNION (BSU)
By: Rachel baez
La Sierra University provides various cultural clubs where students can connect with their peers. Whether participating in events, fundraisers or casual hangouts, these clubs offer opportunities to engage with others and gain insight into diverse cultures. The Black Student Union (BSU) is dedicated to providing a diverse array of cultural, educational and social events to acknowledge and celebrate Black culture. In a conversation with the current BSU president, Zamani Moyo, he reveals BSU’s aim to establish a network of support for its members that goes beyond events. He hopes to do so by providing a safe space and supportive community to assist both their academic and personal needs.
BSU has an exciting schedule of events planned for the next few months. On Jan. 18–19, BSU hosted their Black Adventist Student Association (BASA) Leadership Conference. This event aims to empower and equip Black Student Union student leaders across Seventh-Day Adventist (SDA) universities, such as La Sierra University, Walla Walla University, Pacific Union College and Loma Linda University. On Jan. 20 at 11:15 a.m., BSU and the Loma Linda University Black Health Professional Student Association (BHPSA) hosted their Collegiate Sabbath service takeover at San Bernardino Community SDA Church. Following Sabbath lunch, students will feed the homeless and provide essentials to the San Bernardino community.
BSU has many events lined up for Black History Month. The club will be hosting Tuesday chapels for the entire month of February. The speakers include Dr. Charles Eaton, Dr. Timothy Golden, Dr. Dilys Brooks and Dr. Alfonzo Greene. They plan to highlight Black excellence in these chapels. On Feb. 10, BSU will host an album release event, featuring Mekhi Bramucci and friends, to celebrate and appreciate talented artists on the La Sierra campus. This event will be held at 7 p.m. in the Student Center. On Feb. 23, First Service will consist of a joint BSU and Spiritual Life music program. Lastly, throughout the month, BSU will also be collaborating with the Art + Design Department for a student art installation in the student center.
These events showcase BSU's dedication to creating unforgettable moments that embody unity, self-empowerment and the joyous celebration of diverse cultures. Information regarding upcoming BSU events can be found through school email, EagleConnect or BSU’s Instagram @bsu_lasierra.
Student wellness center and wellness events: A guide to campus health resources
By: Yvonne agriam
The Student Wellness Center of La Sierra University is dedicated to aiding the infirmities and illnesses of students on campus. Located near the La Sierra University security office on Pierce Street, the Wellness Center provides a wide range of resources, such as a clinic, counseling, women’s health services and more. Many of these resources, however, are not explicitly made known. Therefore, La Sierra University can better support the health of its students by spreading awareness of what the Student Wellness Center offers.
The Wellness Center welcomes both appointments and walk-in visits. Students who may be suffering from a fever, sore throat, minor scrapes/cuts, joint sprains, minor aches, urinary discomfort and other symptoms of pain/illness are encouraged to visit for treatment. The Wellness Center resident doctors (MD), physician's assistant and office nurse are available to conduct physical examinations. The clinic advises students with health insurance to bring their insurance information; however, the Wellness Center covers all co-payments excluding co-payments for TB skin tests. With their comprehensive healthcare services, students can access treatment at the Wellness Center without worrying about the cost.
To support student mental health on campus, the Student Wellness Center offers 12 free counseling sessions for registered students per academic year. Students have the option to meet with counselors online or in person. Their team is composed of seven counselors, including one master's level intern, four clinical therapists and two psychiatrists. To schedule an appointment, students are encouraged to contact the office directly by phone: (951) 785-2200. Alternatively, students can also email the Wellness Center via their student emails.
With over half of the student body identifying as female, the provision of women’s health services is a fundamental priority for the Student Wellness Center. The Wellness Center's resident gynecologist can provide birth control counseling, pap smears and prescribed medication.
For birth control counseling, the gynecologist can help patients assess the most suitable type of birth control and guide them through the various steps one may need to take for family planning.
Although the Wellness Center’s services are located outside of campus, students can also anticipate wellness events hosted on campus. Adam Tsao, the Wellness Director of the Student Association of La Sierra University (SALSU) is responsible for organizing the SALSU Wellness events hosted on campus. On Oct. 11, SALSU Wellness hosted its quarterly blood drive. In partnership with LifeStream Blood Bank, this event cumulated 24 donors helping support many lives within the Riverside area. Additionally, on Oct. 17, the Wellness Center itself held the annual Wellness Fair, which took place at the Campus Mall. The purpose of this fair was to provide students with the proper knowledge and resources to aid in the campus’ physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental wellbeing. Many local resources, such as Acosta Chiropractic, the Riverside Rape Crisis Center, and the Riverside Police Department, participated in the fair by setting up informational booths. Each booth provided insight for organizations represented with some even providing free material and sample services. Within the following months, SALSU Wellness then hosted two yoga sessions on Nov. 16 and Dec. 7. These sessions help students set time aside to relax and physically destress. Finally, one of the most anticipated events on campus is the stress-relief animal event. This event, usually held during dead week, allows students to take a break from finals preparation and alleviate stress by spending time with the dogs, cats and bunnies brought onto campus.
All of these events and services would not be possible without the staff and faculty of the Student Wellness Center. Therefore, it is a pleasure to welcome Dr. Rowandalla Goudeau as the new interim Student Wellness Director. La Sierra University is looking forward to new leadership as Dr. Goudeau leads the Wellness Center.
The La Sierra University Student Wellness Center, as well as its wellness events, play a crucial role in promoting health and well-being for students on campus. All of these services, including the clinic and counseling services, are confidential. La Sierra University's Wellness Center is located at 11498 Pierce Street, Suites #A & #B, Riverside, CA 92505. Their times and contact information are as follows:
Mondays-Thursdays: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Fridays: 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Closed on Tuesdays and the summer quarter.
For more information on the Wellness Center resources, you can visit: https://lasierra.edu/wellness/.
Phone Number: (951) 785-2200
Email: wellness@lasierra.edu
SALSU Wellness Instagram account: @lasierrawellness
CLC lunch n’ learn
By: rachel baez
Establishing connections with professors can be daunting, particularly for first-year students who are adjusting to an environment with unfamiliar faces. Fortunately, CLC Lunch n’ Learn is one of the many resources that can help bridge the gap. Located on the third floor of La Sierra University’s library, the CLC is a designated space where students convene to support each other with their coursework, offering assistance with homework or preparing for upcoming exams. CLC Lunch n’ Learn serves as a small community opportunity for students and faculty to share a meal, engage in conversations and build relationships. In addition to providing a relaxed and informal setting for interaction, Lunch n' Learn also offers opportunities for students to learn more about faculty research, explore their interests and seek potential mentorship opportunities.
CLC coordinator Cole Mupas started the program to connect students with professors. “CLC Lunch n’ Learn was an idea that was brought up by my supervisor, Raquel Ingals, from OACS. They have done previous Lunch n’ Learn events before but wanted to revitalize the idea by having engagements with the students and faculty on campus,” said Mupas. He emphasized the benefit of La Sierra University’s small size, which provides students with more chances to build meaningful connections with their professors. Mupas concluded by outlining the program's future objectives: getting professors and students on campus to participate in CLC Lunch n’ Learn, and showcasing exceptional individuals and their varied experiences to students across the campus.
Dr. Leslie Martin, one of La Sierra University’s psychology professors, spoke at the CLC event on Nov. 2. She described the experience as “a conversation for 45 minutes while having a tasty lunch.” Martin covered a diverse set of topics including her career choices, decision-making process and major changes in her academic journey. Additionally, participants inquired about her family and relationships. Martin concluded by stating that although this event has no fixed agenda, it could strengthen connections across disciplines.
Information regarding upcoming CLC Lunch n’ Learn events can be found through school email, or by contacting Cole Mupas at cmupas@lasierra.edu, who will gladly address any queries about this event.
Fall Quarter Events at La Sierra University
By: Yvonne Agriam
La Sierra University is more than halfway through fall quarter and there have been many social events that have taken place since the beginning of the school year. These events have been an exciting way for all students to socialize and build a familial bond with their fellow peers and faculty. It is even more exciting to know that with the holidays rolling in, students can continue to look forward to upcoming Christmas events at the end of this quarter.
Recent holiday events that have already taken place include a fall event hosted by the Student Association of La Sierra University (SALSU). On Oct. 26, students participated in an exhilarating evening of Costume Skate Night at Cal Skate Grand Terrace Roller Rink. Students were encouraged to dress up, and the first 100 attendees were granted free admission. Costume competitions, such as best group costume and most unique costume, inspired students to show their creative sides. Ultimately, student spirit turned the roller rink into a vibrant spectacle!
While festive events bring the university community together during the holiday season, it’s important to note the other exciting events hosted by clubs on campus. One such event was the Halo-Halo mixer, the first-ever event hosted by Asian Student Association (ASA) in collaboration with the Business Club on Oct. 27. Students socialized and celebrated Filipino culture for Filipino American History Month in the SALSU Brickyard.
Student Life and SALSU have also made efforts to bring energy to sports through supporting events. On Nov. 1, they gave out free ice cream during the halftime intermission of the men’s basketball game. For a relaxing afternoon, Pre-Medicine and Pre-Dental Society hosted a beach vespers at Corona del Mar State Beach on Nov 3.
Looking ahead to holiday events, students can anticipate La Sierra University’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting, co-hosted by La Sierra Alumni, the Office of Student Involvement (OSI) and the Department of Student Life. All can enjoy the spirit of Christmas with free food, hot beverages, and on-campus activities on Nov. 30 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Sculpture Plaza. In previous years, activities consisted of a petting zoo, horse-drawn carriages and mini-festive competitions held by various clubs.
Additionally, the Music Department’s Annual Candlelight Concert will be held at the La Sierra University Church on Dec. 1 and 2 during the evening (specific times to be announced). The Candlelight Concert will feature various Christmas songs and compositions performed by the university's chorale, chamber singers and orchestra.
La Sierra University is replete with festivities that students and faculty alike can indulge in. These events not only celebrate the season, but are also a reminder of the strong sense of community at La Sierra University. For more event information, students can check the EagleConnect app, student emails, and the SALSU Instagram account: @salsunow.