Navigating life as a college student can be challenging, especially when we deal with different professors and teaching styles every day. These challenges often lead frustrated students to question the purpose of the classroom and the effectiveness of the teacher running it. But on April 3, the HAIL Teaching Showcase revealed that faculty do put in the work to actively find new ways to teach and connect with their students.
HAIL (High-Impact Approach to Integrated Learning) director Dr. Paul Dahlgren and assistant directors Dr. Jennifer Ryer and Dr. Annie Laurie Nichols organized the event.
According to Nichols, “almost three times as many people came as we expected,” with “more than one-third of all faculty participating.”
The HAIL Teaching Showcase was a success, attracting 48 faculty and staff from across campus to participate.
The event began with a handout session, where professors shared creative strategies to improve engagement and build stronger connections with students. Attendees rotated around a circle of tables, forming lines to ensure everyone had the chance to interact. This setup allowed faculty to exchange ideas efficiently and learn from one another.
“People were really happy to have lots of ideas from their colleagues and new things they could try in their classes,” said Nichols.
April & May 2026
IN THIS ISSUE
BLUE FIRE RELEASE PARTY PAGE 4
WHAT’S NEXT FOR THE WRITING CENTER? PAGE 5
SET HOSTS SPRING FLING PAGE 10
SENIOR ART EXHIBITIONS PAGE 10
SPORTS PAGE 14
SENIOR SPOTLIGHTS PAGE 16
ANNOUNCEMENTS PAGE 28
Dr. Dahlgren, playing the role of the Herald in the game Athens 403: Reacting to the Past.
A major theme that emerged during this session was the use of artificial intelligence. Many professors are still learning how to incorporate AI into their teaching, whether for lesson planning or maintaining academic integrity. The showcase created space for more experienced faculty to share their knowledge and help others adapt. This collaborative environment reflects the event’s larger goal.
As Nichols explained, “the purpose was for people to celebrate the cool things they’re doing in their teaching… and to get ideas from other people on how to meet challenges in teaching.”
The next portion of the showcase was the poster session, which expanded these ideas through research Continued on Page 2.
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and data. Around ten posters displayed different teaching methods, classroom experiments, and results. Faculty moved from poster to poster, discussing strategies and asking questions. The session highlighted how teaching is constantly evolving and reinforced the importance of sharing successful approaches across departments.
After a lunch break, participants moved to the English building to experience a teaching method firsthand by playing “Reacting to the Past.” This role-playing game places participants in historical scenarios where they must debate, research, and collaborate based on assigned perspectives.
Dahlgren described it as “an active learning pedagogy that uses simulations to get students to interrogate critical debates in intellectual history,” adding more simply that “it’s a role-playing game to teach with.”
This game is particularly effective because rather than passively listening to lectures, participants actively compete, argue, and think critically.
“You really don’t know how effective it is until you try it,” Dahlgren said. “Even if it’s not a topic you care about, you end up getting really invested.”
This investment is key to deeper learning. When students take on different assignments, they feel responsible for understanding the material, which motivates them to prepare and participate.
The experience also demonstrates a larger truth about education. By Dr. Dahlgren starting off the game talking about the different roles.
One of the faction tables in the game going over instructions! turning learning into an interactive experience, methods like “Reacting to the Past” encourage students to engage more deeply and retain information longer.
“It’s very easy for us to forget that learning can be fun,” Dahlgren said.
For students, events like this matter more than they might realize. Behind the scenes, professors are actively working to make classes more engaging, meaningful, and effective. The Teaching Showcase isn’t just about faculty development; it directly contributes to how students learn, participate, and succeed in the classroom.
VISUAL ARTS SCHOLARSHIP SHOW
Emily Crenshaw Design Editor
On March 24, GSW’s Visual Arts Department honored 13 students at their annual scholarship show.
“The scholarship exhibition is an annual event where art students from all grade levels have the opportunity to submit artworks for a scholarship consideration,” says Justin Hodges, Assistant Professor of Photography and Digital Art. “It’s been a spring semester tradition here for many years.
Congratulations to the Spring 2026 Visual Arts Scholarship Recipients:
• Tyrrell Mitchell (JR)
• Nadia Wood (JR)
Dakota Nash (SO)
• Allison Osborne (FR)
• Abrielle Pysher (SO)
• Joseph (Ethan) Sellers (SO)
• Kristen Simpson (SO)
• Juliette Bulatko (JR)
• Noah Miller (SR)
Brandon Mann (SO)
• Delaney Eubanks (FR)
• Jenny Santamaria (SR)
• Jerrica Bradley (FR)
All photos were taken by their respective artists unless otherwise stated.
Artwork by Dakota Nash.
Artwork by Kristen Simpson.
Artwork by Kristen Simpson.
Marion Mims’s artwork. Photo by Jenny Santamaria.
Noah Miller’s artwork. Photo by Jenny Santamaria.
Artwork by Lyonal Jones.
Artwork by Jenny Santamaria.
Spectators at the show. Photo provided by the Art Department.
BLUE FIRE RELEASE PARTY SHINES A LIGHT ON LOCAL TALENT
Emily Crenshaw Design Editor
The “Blue Fire” Literary Magazine celebrated the release of their second issue with the Volume 2 Release Party on Thursday, April 23.
“Blue Fire” is GSW’s literary and visual arts magazine, that features creative non-fiction, fiction, poetry, and visual art.
The release party recognized the hard work of the editors and the creativity of the contributors with pizza, appetizers, and snacks as some of the individuals published in the volume read excerpts from their work. Students, faculty, staff, and community members gathered to receive their free copy of the book and listen to readings of creative non-fiction, fiction, and poetry.
“Working on “Blue Fire” was a labor of love,” said Makayla Jackson, a sophomore English major and one of the “Blue Fire” editors. “A lot more went into it than I thought it would, but I’m glad to have finished it. I felt unspeakably proud and relieved to have pulled the new edition out of the box and see the product of all of our hard work. Now there is an amazing piece of literature out there with all of our names on it.”
Aden Bruce, a sophomore secondary education major with a focus on English also serves as the layout and design team editor and designed the cover of “Blue Fire” Vol. 2.
“I will cherish the experience for a long time,” said Bruce, a sophomore secondary education major with a focus on English. “After all the readings I went around and had all the contributors sign my book. That felt really special, and it was really nice to have my friends and family see something that we put so much effort into.”
Dr. Alaina Kaus, the “Blue Fire” faculty advisor, names listening to the contributors speak as an enjoyable moment at the event for her.
“One of my favorite moments on release day is right after the editors set up the copies on the table before the party begins,” Kaus said. “There’s something very satisfying about seeing the copies displayed and ready to enter the world.”
Even students not directly involved with the magazine itself enjoyed partaking in the release party.
Dori Nwagbara, a Junior Communication and Emerging Media major, remarks that, as an attendee, “the
Anika “Nikki” Remollino reads her work. Photo by Dr. Kaus
Emily Crenshaw poses with the book. Photo by Dori Nwagbara.
Anika “Nikki” Remollino reads her work. Photo by Dr. Kaus
‘Blue Fire’ release party was a really nice way to remind others about not only art as a creative but as a selfexpression to the different areas of our lives. And seeing all the support makes the event and reminder even more prevalent and worth engaging in.”
The reach of “Blue Fire” is felt far beyond the GSW campus.
“I love sharing in people’s excitement over ‘Blue Fire,’” said Kaus. “People email from far and wide to express their interest or delight in the magazine. They often note how much the magazine means to them. It’s a good reminder that the work that goes into publishing it matters and that people care very deeply about literature and the creative arts.”
Contributor bios include references to roots in Australia, north Wales, Indiana, Michigan, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, Ohio, California, Virginia, and of course, multiple Georgians.
Congratulations to the “Blue Fire” vol. 2 team, Aden Bruce, Maven Coston, Makayla Jackson, Jenna Morgan, Makenzi Parr, Adalyn Rooks, and Faculty Advisor Dr. Alaina Kaus, for their hard work in curating a beautiful collection of art and literature.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR THE WRITING CENTER?
Colby Hernandez Editor-in-Chief
The Writing Center is staying in Collum Hall, room 102, for now.
Previously housed in the James Earl Carter Library, the Writing Center was temporarily moved to Collum Hall during renovations in 2025. Despite the library reopening on October 17, 2025, the Writing Center has remained in Collum.
However, the possibility of finding a different home is still in the air.
“There are no plans to relocate the Writing Center at this time,” said Dr. Rachel Abbott, provost. “As we finalize the strategic planning and campus master planning processes this summer, I anticipate that the Writing Center may naturally be part of the conversations. A formal announcement will be provided once these processes are complete and we have a clearer institutional direction regarding space and location decisions that may affect multiple areas.”
This is not the first time the Writing Center has been relocated.
According to Dr. Lauren DiPaula, director of the Writing Center, the Writing Center started in the English building before moving to Canes Central.
“We had an amazing room in Canes Central. Then, because a lot of writing centers around 2017 were moving into libraries, some of the tutors and I wrote a proposal to move us to the library. We moved there in spring of 2018. We were not given a room,” said DiPaula. “The room that I really wanted was not available, so we were in an open-air area with just partitions around it. It was really awkward and the tutors hated it. We wanted to
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be close to the reference librarian and foot traffic. It turned out we didn’t get much foot traffic because it was so open air.”
DiPaula added that the tutors and students also began to complain because they felt pressured to stay quiet.
“I want to go back to where we were in Canes Central because that was, and our research showed, that that was the best place on campus for the Writing Center,” DiPaula said. “However, our old room is heavily used by FYE now. So, I don’t think we’ll get it back. I had big windows, it was a prominent place, there was a lot of traffic. It was very bright and big, no one was on top of each other.”
When renovations concluded in the fall, the Writing Center was given a small room in the library that is unfit for their operations. It is half the size of their room in Collum and does not have office space for DiPaula.
Professors who frequently send their students to the Writing Center commented that they would love to see the Writing Center have more space.
“If it were up to me, I’d put the Writing Center in the big conference room on the first floor of the library,” said Dr. Jennifer Ryer, Assistant Professor of English and QEP Assistant Director College of Arts and Sciences. “It would be (a) closer to the first- and second-year residence halls and (b) right next to nice study spaces and a computer lab that WC visitors could take advantage of while they are there. I like whatever will encourage students to use the library and will help consolidate their studying, research, and academic support, especially in their earlier years.”
Dr. Michael Moir, English Department Chair and Professor of English, added that he is “less concerned with where it would go than I am with how much space it’s given.”
“[Collum Hall] isn’t a bad spot for it, but I’d like to see it someplace that is both larger and a place that students have to go to regularly for other reasons. It seems to me a little bit isolated in Collum Hall, since students don’t normally hang out there unless they’re taking a class in the building,” Moir continued. “When our Writing Center was at its height, it took up a good portion of the first floor of the library it was in a space that is not specifically connected to the English Department (important since we don’t want students to think it’s just an English thing) and there was enough space for multiple tutors to spread out and run sessions without stepping on each others’ toes or allowing students to overhear each others’ sessions. Ideally, we would get back to something like that.”
While they both want to see more space given to the Writing Center, they are not opposed to it staying where it is. DiPaula also added that Collum Hall works well for the Writing Center because of the location.
“Since it is so close to Pines and Chick-Fil-A, it seems to get some traffic that it wouldn’t otherwise get. The WC’s current room can be open and a little sectioned off at the same time—students can feel free to walk in but not feel like they are getting help in front of the whole campus,” DiPaula said. “And they have done a great job making the space warm and welcoming.”
Regardless of where the Writing Center is located, you can be certain that it will be somewhere for students to use. The best way to show your support for the Writing Center is to use it.
UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM 2026
Amaya Martin Reporter
GSW hosted the 8th Annual Undergraduate Research Symposium on April 17 where students of all majors showcased their knowledge.
“It’s always fascinating to me to get to see the various projects that students do across campus and the work that they do,” said Dr. Anne Jacobs, chair of the organizing committee. “But I thought overall it went really well. I think our student presenters all did a great job. I think that things ran smoothly.”
Around 70 students from majors like computer science, biology, psychology, and more participated in a variety of oral presentations and poster presentations.
According to Jacobs, “We had people from the hard sciences, people from the humanities, and kind of in between.”
Jordan Ellis, a senior education and history major, gave an oral presentation titled, “Societal and Cultural Shifts Following Periods of Panic.” Her research analyzes how widespread fear can affect the way society implements laws and reforms for the future.
“This kind of draws in history and relates it to childcare so it’s super important to me and I feel like I’m spreading awareness for an important topic,” said Ellis, who focused on reforms made in daycares following evidence of trauma and mistreatment.
Grayson Freeman, a senior biology major, received the Provost’s Choice award for his poster presentation on the feeding patterns of the eastern gray squirrel in southwest Georgia in relation to deforestation disrupting natural feeding patterns. He presented a solution to logging or harvesting in areas while keeping species of that habitat out of harm’s way.
“I hope it has genuine scientific value, and I’m able to get this distraction feeding type of thing out there in the for-service community to the deforest station community and to try to get them to use it,” said Freeman.
Distraction feeding allows for safe methods to draw an animal from its habitat to begin work in the area without causing them harm. Although Freeman focused on the eastern gray squirrel, his research can apply to many other species.
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Grayson Freeman and his poster.
Raelyn Porter and her poster.
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The Undergraduate Research Symposium awarded prizes for top projects. This year’s winners include:
Best Talk in Room 2410. First place: Delaney Thomas for “Validation of Pathogenic Germline Mutations in MSHG6 Gene Associated with Colorectal Cancer Risk in Lynch Syndrome.” Second place: Charles Hiatt, Dominique Solomon, and Zackery Payne for “BirdDex: A Scalable Bird Identification and Data Modeling Platform.”
Best Talk in Room 2413. First place: Demijanae Nurinda Aguilar for “Synthesis of New Antibacterial Agents.” Second place: Taylor Poe for “Growing into Adulthood: How ‘Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland’ Teaches Children to Creatively and Critically Think.”
Best Talk in Room 2417. First place: Kristyn Griffin for “Faith, Policy, and the Politics of Gambling: Religious Influence of Sports Betting Legalization in the United States.” Second place: Ivey Knight, Christopher Hickman, and Olivia Henderson for “Graph-Based Attack Path Visualizer (GBAV).”
Poster presentation winners were:
First place: Hanae Colquitt, for “The Effect of Self-Efficacy, Self-Esteem, Problematic Behavior, and Depression on Academic Aspirations and Achievement in College Students.”
Second place: Kenneth Daniels, Noah Bridges, Jesus Galvan, Jillian Haddow, Owen Morey, Kayden Poole, and Claudine Mae Rodriguez for their poster “Crystallization of Copper(II) Sulfate in Various Organic Solvents.”
Provost’s Choice: Grayson Freeman for “Do Eastern Gray Squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) Show Food Preference in Southwest Georgia?”
HUMANS RETURN TO MOON FOR FIRST TIME IN 50 YEARS
Colby Hernandez Editor-in-Chief
The Artemis II moon mission launched four astronauts to the moon on April 1. Three NASA astronauts, Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, as well as Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen, spent 10 days on board the Orion spacecraft to test its deep space capabilities.
The astronauts gathered significant scientific data by taking pictures of the surface and mapping out the details of the moon previously undocumented. The crew named their Orion capsule “Integrity” to embody the trust, respect, candor, and humility required for the mission.
The four returned safely home on April 10, splashing down in the Pacific Ocean, southwest of San Diego.
They also brought home some historic highs.
The astronauts travelled the furthest distance from Earth any human has ever been, 252,756 miles out, on April 6. If you wrapped a string that long around the equator, you’d circle the globe ten times and still have some string left. The Apollo 13 crew held the previous record, achieving a distance of 248,655 miles on April 15, 1970.
The mission featured the first woman, mission specialist Christina Koch, and first person of color, pilot Victor Glover, to travel into deep space.
The mission also introduced the term “moon joy,” which NASA describes as the feeling of intense happiness and excitement that only comes from a mission to the Moon.
The overall goal of the Artemis program is to achieve a permanent Moon base before the 2030’s. Artemis III will test the docking procedures of the Orion capsule in 2027. Then, in 2028, Artemis IV and V will land humans on the Moon for the first time since December 1972.
NASA’s Space Launch System, carrying Integrity, launches from Kennnedy Space Center on April 1, 2026. Photo credit NASA/Joel Kowsky.
The view of Earth from Integrity. At the top right can be seen Aurora Australis, the Southern Lights, and at the bottom left Aurora Borealis, the Northern Lights. The land mass you see is northern Africa. Photo credit NASA.
Christina Koch, the first woman to travel into deep space, looks at Earth through Integrity’s window. Photo credit NASA.
Artemis II crew group hug. Clockwise from left, Mission Specialist Christina Koch, Mission Specialist Jeremy Hansen, Commander Reid Wiseman, and Pilot Victor Glover. Photo credit NASA.
SET HOSTS SPRING FLING EVENT
Madyson Mims Reporter
The GSW Set Team hosted a non-annual Spring Fling event on March 31.
The event drew a large crowd to welcome the change in weather and bring us all “Out of Hibernation.”
Senior Tay Brown, manned the grill for the entire event.
“The weather was very hot, but I like grilling for the most part because it gives everybody a variety of options to choose from,” Brown said. “I grill back home and my uncles taught me at an early age.”
This event was filled with physical activities, grilled food, snacks, a lemonade bar, and a socializing area.
“It is a good event to get people out of their dorms because they don’t get out enough,” said junior Kameron Kromartie, as he was drawing some artwork on Hello Walk.
A FIVE STAR REVIEW FOR FIVE SENIOR SHOWS
Emily Crenshaw Desmond Martin
GSW has had a very artsy April! This semester, five senior art students showcased their bodies of work in anticipation of graduating with their Bachelor of Fine Arts degree next month.
“A solo senior exhibition is a unique opportunity that we’re fortunate to be able to offer students who earn it,” says Justin Hodges, Assistant Professor of Photography and Digital Art. “We’re the only University that I know of that provides one to students. If students are serious about entering an art career after graduation, there’s no better preparation.”
Senior shows allow graduating art students to demonstrate several years’ worth of achievement in art disciplines, including painting, photography, drawing, digital art, ceramics, glassblowing, and sculpture, in campus art galleries with opening receptions to recognize their creative accomplishments.
The Set Team. Left to right: Zaria Law, Jakobe Jenkins, Tyrianna Anderson, Esther Coulibaly, Janila Diggs, Shiriyah Battle, and Tay Brown.
Tiara Hozumi and Janiya Johnson playing spikeball.
Artwork by Leah Ross. Photo by Desmond Martin.
Artwork by Leah Ross. Photo by Desmond Martin.
Leah Ross and Cathryn Dixon’s exhibits were on display from April 6-16. Ross’s “Distortions” uses painting, drawing, and glass to explore the central themes of distorted reality and individualistic concepts of truth.
“My work addresses viewers concerning their perspective on reality and asks them to question the things that are presented to them, whether they are obviously distorted or presented as indisputable facts,” said Ross.
By creating photographic references for her subject matter, Ross creates paintings that translate this subject “through another material that acts as a lens.” This strategic use of texture invites the viewer to see the areas with a thicker application of paint as the lens and to reflect on the reality that the paint is what is actually real.
“She was really intent on leaving the distortion apart of the picture taking process,” said Morgan, Ross’s sister.
Dixon’s exhibition, “Falling Through The Cracks,” is a representation of urban disinvestment, or the withdrawal of investment from a certain area, a theme that heavily inspires her work.
Dixon remarks that “disinvestment affects many communities that already face issues of discrimination, pushing areas down that already have a harder time making their way up. ‘Falling Through The Cracks’ is meant to shed light onto this ongoing issue that is deeply rooted in societal imbalance.”
In her photography, Dixon explores the juxtaposition between invested versus disinvested communities and the overall impact this has on society. Her work demonstrates that as resources “are taken away by humans, nature begins to reclaim these spaces.”
Trinity Daniels McNear’s solo exhibition, “Collective Weight,” was on display from April 21-27. The display “examines Black hair as an act of labor, memory, and historical weight, connecting my cultural history with that of many others.”
As a sculpture artist, McNear explores the routine and ritual of haircare that connects her to “a lineage of hands that have braided, styled, and cared across generations,” from locs, box braids, Afros, puff-balls, and cornrows, while noting that these “are not just styles, but practices rooted in survival, resistance, and care.”
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The front of Cathryn Dixon’s show card.
Dixon posing in front of her work.
Photo by Trinity Daniels McNear..
The front of Trinity Daniels McNear’s show card.
Artwork by Trinity Daniels McNear.
Photo by Cathryn Dixon..
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Her work is rooted in function of hair as a language across pre-colonial African societies “signaling identity, status, and lineage.” McNear adds “that language was disrupted through enslavement, where hair was often shaved.”
Jordyn Walker’s solo exhibition, “Skintight,” was on display from April 21 to May 1. The display “examines the disabled body from various angles: as perceived by the public, as perceived by the medical system, and as perceived by the self.”
As a digital artist, Walker explores vivid medical imagery and an intentional, striking color palette, with red as the primary use of color to convey not only blood but also “the visceral experience of uncooperative flesh.”
Their work engages with disability studies as well as the lived experiences of physically disabled individuals in a compelling, thought-provoking manner. At the center of the gallery, an IV pole stands next to a hospital bed that displays a pigment print on cotton of medical imagery as if it is the sheet, demonstrating how invasive continuous medical treatment feels with a poignant physical reminder at the center of the room.
“An overabundance of medical imaging demonstrates the empirical breakdown, surveillance, and compartmentalization of the body by contemporary science,” said Walker, who uses techniques such as chromatic aberration and distortion to emphasize this disconnect between mind and body that comes from continuous medical treatment.
Ben Dracup’s exhibit, “Contrasts of Wealth,” is currently available to view and will be on display until May 6 in the James Earl Carter Library Fine Arts Gallery.
Dracup’s concentration is in glassblowing, and his work consists of concrete and glass sculptures about societal wealth gaps. He describes the contrast in his use of material as analogous to contemporary society’s extreme class differences.
“As a high-end craft material, blown-glass represents the wealthiest, while the concrete that cheaply builds most of our capitalist economy analogizes the lower classes, who have likely worked with concrete, or similar materials, to survive,” said Dracup.
The front of Ben Dracup’s show card.
Artwork by Ben Dracup. Photo by Ben Dracup.
Artwork by Jordyn Walker. Photo by Emily Crenshaw.
Artwork by Jordyn Walker. Photo provided by Jordyn Walker.
SENIOR SENDOFF: EMILY CRENSHAW
When I first came back to GSW to pursue my second bachelor’s degree, I was determined to forge a new career path but uncertain of where exactly I need to be. After several classes, I ended up in the Communication & Emerging Media department, where the welcoming, supportive, and closeknit environment fostered by our faculty was exactly what I needed to grow as a professional and as a person.
While I did not think in a million years that I would find myself once again making new friends at college or getting involved with campus organizations, I was so wrong! From the faculty and staff to the students, everyone has been so welcoming and kind. Being Design Editor and Social Media Manager for The Sou’Wester is the most fun I’ve ever had making minimum wage due to the friendships we have formed. The countless hours in the Communication Conference room, aka “The Office,” with my classmates, have kept me sane.
In addition to Dr. Carter, Dr. Nichols, and Dr. Shiller, I would like to thank Chelsea Collins, the Director of Marketing in the Department of University Relations, for being an incredible mentor to me and helping me figure out where I belong professionally. Finally, I can’t mention the people of GSW without thanking Justin Hodges and Laurel Robinson, who welcomed me back to the Fine Arts Building all these years later, allowing me to once again haunt the department in my spare time. Their encouragement, support, and guidance have given me the opportunity to create art in the past two years that I otherwise would not have dreamed big enough for.
Emily Crenshaw Design Editor, Social Media Manager
TASTE OF THE WORLD
Isabella Escovar Reporter
Students enjoy food at the annual Taste of the World event, featuring Italian, Vietnamese, and many more intercultural cuisines.
Food is being served to students at Taste of the World.
Birria empanadas served at Taste of the World by GSW “The Caf.”
SPORTS
MEN’S GOLF PBC CHAMPIONS AFTER 1ST IN ALL THREE ROUNDS
Colby Hernandez
Madison Vickers
Following a 1st place rank in all three rounds of the Peach Belt Conference Championships, GSW’s Men’s Golf team has won the conference and are moving on to compete in the NCAA South/Southeast Regional round. GSW is currently ranked No. 7 nationally and finished 5-under par.
to
Donaldson,
Head Coach Darcy Donaldson, who has been at GSW since 2012, praises his team for handling the pressure.
“We had a great game plan,” Donaldson said. “The guys did a very good job handling the weather, wind, and the pressure of winning a conference championship. Winning any tournament that we play in is awesome, we play a difficult schedule against the best teams each tournament. This [is] our second conference championship with a completely different team. [Its] great for all the hard work these guys put in.”
Junior Sam Brown earned individual medalist honors, joining current senior Nicolas Escobar as the only two Hurricanes to win honors at the Peach Belt Conference Championship.
Brown admitted to a tough first and second round.
“To begin with, the course wasn’t easy at all. The set up was quite hard, and the conditions, namely on the second round were quite tough,” said Brown. “The guys felt pretty good after the first round since most of us posted some good scores, and I felt that moving into the second day, I could do some climbing on the leaderboard. The second round was the toughest one, as it was very windy, making it a challenge. Although these challenges presented themselves, I stuck to our game plan the team and our coach talked about, and executed them to the best could.”
Brown was surprised at how little pressure there was for the third round.
“The last day was surprisingly the most stress-free day I had. I started the last round with next to no nerves, and just trusted that whatever I wanted to do would work out, and it did just that,” Brown said. “Due to the relatively stress-free last day, I’d say the biggest high point would be my last few putts, and the feeling of winning, as well as embracing my teammates off the green was something that will stick with me for a while.”
GSW will play at the NCAA Division II South/Southeast Regional tournament May 7-9 in Valdosta, Georgia.
Left
right: Coach
Järn, Hammar, Costa, Jones, Corlouer, Rojas, Brown. Photo from gswcanes.
SOFTBALL (18-31, 5-19 CONF)
March 28- vs North Georgia L 5-7
March 28- vs North Georgia L 3-11
April 4- vs Columbus State L 0-8
April 4- vs Columbus State L 5-6
April 6- vs Columbus State L 3-9
April 7- at Valdosta State L 4-5
April 7- at Valdosta State L 1-10
April 10- at Georgia College L 1-9
April 11- at Georgia College L 3-5
April 11- at Georgia College W 7-3
April 14- vs Albany State W 9-3
April 14- vs Albany State W 6-5
April 17- vs Middle Georgia State L 3-4
April 18- vs Middle Georgia State L 5-6
April 18- vs Middle Georgia State W 9-4
April 21- at West Alabama L 1-2
April 21- at West Alabama L 0-2
April 25- at USC Beaufort L 1-4
April 25- at USC Beaufort W 13-11
April 26- at USC Beaufort L 4-12
TENNIS (1-12, 0-7 CONF)
March 31- vs Augusta University L 0-6
April 3- at Lander University L 0-7
April 10- vs Columbus State L 0-7
April 11- at Georgia College L 0-7
April 17- at Flagler College L 0-7
April 18- vs North Georgia L 0-7
Peach Belt Conference Tournament
April 24- at Columbus State L 0-4
UPCOMING EVENTS
BASEBALL (#5)
Peach Belt Conference Tournament | Dahlonega, GA
May 1- at Flagler College (#4) 5 p.m.
SOFTBALL
May 1- at Flagler College 6 p.m.
May 2- at Flagler College 1 p.m.
May 2- at Flagler College 3 p.m.
BASEBALL (27-23, 18-12 CONF)
March 28- at Lander University L 4-5
March 29- at Lander University L 12-22
April 2- at North Georgia L 2-4
April 3- at North Georgia L 3-4
April 4- at North Georgia L 2-10
April 7- at Albany State W 4-3
April 10- vs Flagler College L 1-14
April 11- vs Flagler College W 10-9
April 12- vs Flagler College L 8-12
April 14- vs Valdosta State L 6-8
April 17- at Middle Georgia State W 19-5
April 18- at Middle Georgia State W 6-5
April 19- at Middle Georgia State W 10-9
April 21- vs Albany State W 12-3
April 24- vs Columbus State W 5-3
April 25- vs Columbus State W 15-4
April 26- vs Columbus State W 9-3
GOLF (2026 PBC CHAMPIONS)
March 30- at Argonaut Invitational 8th of 15 teams
March 31- at Argonaut Invitational 7th of 15 teams
Peach Belt Conference Championships | St. Augustine, FL
April 19- 1st of 8 teams
April 20- 1st of 8 teams
April 21- 1st of 8 teams
GOLF (2026 PBC CHAMPIONS)
NCAA Division II South/Southeast Regional | Valdosta, GA
May 7- Round 1 TBA
May 8- Round 2 TBA
May 9- Round 3 TBA
Senior Spotlights
Edith Acevedo Cordero
BUSINESS
MANAGEMENT
What I’ve Done at GSW:
• Founding member of the Beta Alpha Chapter of Alpha Psi Lambda National Inc. (2024-2026)
• Greek Woman of the Year (2025)
• Residential Leader of the Year (2025)
• Outstanding Service Award (2025)
• Moore Family Scholarship (2024 – 2025)
• Jim and Doris Tanquary Scholarship (2024 – 2025)
• Goizuetta Scholarship (2022-2025)
What I liked most about GSW:
My favorite part of attending GSW has been serving as a Residential Leader. This role has provided me with valuable leadership opportunities, including being one of five founding members who helped bring Alpha Psi Lambda National, Inc. to GSW.
What I will take into the future:
One important lesson I have learned and will carry with me is that success is earned through hard work and dedication. Nothing is simply given—you must be willing to put in the effort to achieve your goals. This is a mindset I hope to share with others as well.
My plans after graduation:
My plans after graduation are to secure a stable position that aligns with my major in Business Management and allows me to continue growing professionally.
Three words to describe my experience at GSW: Community, Growth, Opportunity
Hanae Colquitt
PSYCHOLOGY
What I’ve Done at GSW:
FYE Note taker (2024-2025), Psychology and Sociology Tutor for FYE (2025-2026), Psi Chi International Honor Society in Psychology
What I liked most about GSW:
My favorite part of attending GSW has been how easy it is to get involved with campus events and develop genuinely impactful relationships with students and faculty. Such a tight-knit, sincere community has helped me grow both personally and academically, and I am forever grateful for those who encouraged my success throughout my studies!
What I will take into the future:
I learned that if you ask enough questions and always remain willing and excited to learn, the right opportunities and information will find you.
My plans after graduation:
After graduation, I plan to pursue doctoral-level study focusing in self-concepts and social perception to further my research and contributions in the field of psychology.
Three words to describe my experience at GSW: Everything I needed
Emily Davis
NURSING
What I liked most about GSW:
My favorite part of attending GSW has been being a part of the GSW women’s soccer team and making so many great friends.
What I will take into the future:
At GSW, I learned how to live on my own, be responsible, and become an adult.
My plans after graduation:
After graduation, I plan to go back home to Watkinsville, GA, and work at Piedmont Walton hospital as an ER nurse.
Three words to describe my experience at GSW: Fun, Rewarding, Challenge
Emily Crenshaw
COMMUNICATION & EMERGING MEDIA
What I’ve Done at GSW:
• Design Editor and Social Media Manager for The Sou’Wester
• Marketing and Communications Intern for University Relations August 2024-May 2025
• Recipient of Communication Student of the Year 2025-2026 Excellence in Communication & Emerging Media Award
• Published in Blue Fire volumes 1 & 2 (poetry, creative non-fiction, oil painting, and digital art)
• Note Taker for Office of Disability Services
• Anticipated to be graduating summa cum laude (3.9 overall GPA, 4.0 major GPA)
What I liked most about GSW:
The people. By far, my favorite part of attending GSW has been the sense of community. Returning as a secondary baccalaureate degree-seeking student has shown me that GSW is truly a home in every sense of the word: a place you can come back to no matter how much time has passed, with a family who will welcome you back with open arms as if you never left. I will be forever thankful for this extra chapter here and for the new faculty members and friends I have met along the way.
What I will take into the future:
Sometimes the best place for you to grow is to bloom where you’re planted. For me, this means to make the most of every situation you find yourself in. Use it as an opportunity to improve yourself as well as to leave things better than you found them for those who will come after you.
My plans after graduation:
After graduation, my plans for life include building a career in the communication, design, & media field, continuing to grow as an artist and writer, owning my own business, and going to the beach as often as possible.
Three words to describe my experience at GSW: Expansive, Transformative, Nostalgic
Colby Hernandez
COMMUNICATION & EMERGING MEDIA
What I’ve Done at GSW:
I’ve worked at the Sou’Wester for four years, serving as a staff writer, photojournalist, student government representative, media editor, and editor-in-chief. I’ve presented at the Humanities Symposium, Undergrad Research Symposium, and the Georgia Communication Association conference.
What I liked most about GSW:
Being able to get an excellent education for an affordable price while staying close to friends and family. I’m also extremely grateful for the Sou’Wester and the opportunities it has brought me. I know at any other school I could not have led their student paper and I’m grateful for the experience it has brought me.
What I will take into the future:
Take Tomorrow by Storm. Siezing the moment and making the most of everyday is the Hurricane Spirit. I plan on keeping that attitude in the future.
My plans after graduation:
After graduating I plan on working as a social media manager and eventually perusing my MA in the communication or journalism field.
Three words to describe my experience at GSW: Coffee, Jimmy Carter, Family
Katie Dennard NURSING
What I liked most about GSW:
Definitely the friends and connections I’ve made here at GSW.
What I will take into the future:
That even when everything is overwhelming and I have no idea how I am going to get through; I am capable.
My plans after graduation:
I’m planning to pass the NCLEX and move to Macon to become a Medsurg Oncology nurse.
Three words to describe my experience at GSW: Challenging, Rewarding, Enlightening.
Trinity Daniels McNear
FINE ARTS
What I’ve Done at GSW:
• Artist United member (2022-2026) Miss Freshman (2022)
• Director of Cares and Diversity (SGA) (2023)
• Service and Fundraising chair for the Mu Rho Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc (2023)
• Vice President of the Mu Rho Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc (2023-2025)
• Director of Internal Affairs (2023-2024)
• Residential Leader Magnolia (2023-2025)
• Student Body President (2024-2025)
• GSW Marshall (2024-2026) Canes Spotlight (2025)
• Senior Residential Leader Magnolia (2025-2026)
• Miss Kappa Alpha Psi (2025-2026)
• Miss GSW (2025-2026)
• President of the Mu Rho Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc (2026)
What I liked most about GSW:
My favorite part of attending GSW has been the opportunity to get involved and connect with so many different people. Because of the university’s size, it’s been easy to step into leadership roles and truly become part of the campus community.
What I will take into the future:
One of the most important things I’ve learned is how to take constructive criticism and turn it into growth. When I first came to GSW, I was very concerned with how others perceived me and my art, but over time I’ve learned to use feedback to strengthen my work instead of internalizing it.
My plans after graduation:
My plans after graduation are to secure a job and begin preparing to pursue a master’s degree in museum studies while continuing to do community service through my sorority Sigma Gamma Rho.
Three words to describe my experience at GSW: Growth, Involved, Community
Cathryn Dixon
FINE ARTS
What I’ve Done at GSW: Artist United, IM Volleyball.
What I liked most about GSW:
I would say my favorite part has been getting to expand my practice in art and being able to closely work together with my professors in experimenting with different mediums.
What I will take into the future:
Something that GSW has taught me is to surround yourself with people who will lift you up and encourage you through everything; that having the right people around you can make you stronger.
My plans after graduation:
My plans for after graduation are to work on my own photography practice/business and continue building my portfolio. Also, hopefully one day I will have my own studio.
Three words to describe my experience at GSW: Imapctful, Challenging, Rewarding
Katana Glover MUSIC
What I’ve Done at GSW: Pres House RSO, CSC member
What I liked most about GSW:
I have made so many friendships that I will cherish forever and have grown so much as a person and a musician.
What I will take into the future: I developed skills that helped me become better at networking.
My plans after graduation:
I plan on moving and finding a job within my field so I can look more closely at getting my masters.
Three words to describe my experience at GSW: Fun, Musical, Encouraging
Lydia Anne Jenkins
NURSING
What I’ve Done at GSW: Kappa Delta Sorority, GSW Marshall, Sigma Chi Little Sister
What I liked most about GSW:
My favorite part about attending GSW has been the friendships I’ve made over the last four years. These are lifelong relationships that I’ll carry with me forever. While my college years were some of the best of my life, the ultimate highlight was finding a community in Greek life—I may have gone for the sisterhood, but I came away with a degree and a husband.
What I will take into the future:
College teaches you that your network isn’t just a list of contacts; it’s a support system. Whether it was through a Greek life, organizations, a study group, or friends you met on campus, you learned that showing up for people creates a bond. In the professional world, “who you know” often starts with “who you supported” during your college years.
My plans after graduation:
After graduation, I plan to work on the medical-surgical floor at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center. I plan to further my education in nursing and specifically in diabetes management. I am so excited for this next chapter in my life and want to live life to the fullest.
Three words to describe my experience at GSW: Rewarding, Memorable, Unforgettable
Trenton Mays
SECONDARY EDUCATION
What I’ve Done at GSW:
BCM President & Worship Leader
What I liked most about GSW:
Getting to know such amazing friends and professors, while also being able to grow alongside everyone has been one of my favorite parts of being at GSW.
What I will take into the future:
Even when it feels like you have hit your lowest point God is with you, and He will provide for you. There’s never a moment that you cannot turn to Him in His everlasting Love to find peace and strength. When you are weak He is strong.
My plans after graduation: I plan to get a job teaching History nearby, and maybe go back to school either to get my Masters in Education or a Masters of Divinity.
Three words to describe my experience at GSW: Fun, Challenging, Growing
Jennifer Pounds
COMMUNICATION & EMERGING MEDIA
What I liked most about GSW:
My favorite part of attending GSW is discovering the communications programs and being able to fully be involved with a major that I loved before I actually knew what it was.
What I will take into the future:
I learned how important it is to be surrounded by a positive and such a giving environment. I strive to find environments like this as mine continues to grow and change.
My plans after graduation: My plans are to go off to college again and obtain my master’s and eventually teach Strategic Communications at a community college.
Three words to describe my experience at GSW: Maturing, Directional, Blessed
Cedric McNabb MANAGEMENT
What I’ve Done at GSW:
• Vice President of communications for GSW SAM (Society of Advanced Management)
• MMA (Marketing & Management association)
• GSW Accounting Club
• Brotherhood
• Residential Leader (2021-2023)
What I liked most about GSW:
My favorite part about attending GSW has been building meaningful connections with my peers and staff while staying actively involved on campus as a student leader. I have enjoyed participating and volunteering in events, playing intramural basketball games, and taking part in activities that contribute to my personal and professional growth. Opportunities such as organizing fundraisers, engaging in innovative initiatives, and competing in various competitions have helped prepare me for my future career. Overall, the experiences and events hosted by GSW have allowed me to strengthen my network and develop lasting relationships with both my peers and professors.
What I will take into the future:
What I learned here, and what I will carry with me moving forward, is the importance of trying new things and attending new events—even those I may initially feel unsure about. Instead of assuming I won’t enjoy something, I should still go, because I might discover a new interest or passion. Attending events also provides valuable opportunities to meet new people. These connections can be meaningful, whether they align with my goals or can support me. I believe it is important to step outside of my comfort zone and remain open to new experiences. Even if I think I may not enjoy something, I should still give it a chance, because I never know what I might gain or learn from the experience.
My plans after graduation:
My plans after graduation are to pursue my MBA while working for a Fortune 500 company in either business development or operations. I aim to grow within the organization and advance my career in whichever path best aligns with my strengths and opportunities. At the same time, I plan to continue developing my entrepreneurial venture by scaling my wine business globally and expanding its presence in restaurants.
Three words to describe my experience at GSW: Perseverance, Connection, Joy.
Jeslyn Olson
PSYCHOLOGY/SOCIOLOGY
What I’ve Done at GSW:
During my time at GSW I served as an orientation panelist for incoming freshmen and shared my experiences and advice with underclassmen as they make decisions about their future. I have also been a strong advocate for the internship program that is offered to juniors and seniors, as that opportunity help put me on the career path I am on now.
What I liked most about GSW:
My favorite part of attending GSW is the faculty. GSW professors are exceptional and compassionate educators that do everything in their power to make a difference in students’ lives. In my experience, the professors provide ample resources to boost student understanding and are very invested in the academic growth of each and every one of their students.
What I will take into the future:
I will take into the future the importance of hands-on experience when learning. Direct involvement in tasks and real-world application through an internship helped me understand concepts more deeply and retain information more effectively. This experience showed me that active participation often leads to greater confidence, stronger problem-solving skills, and a more meaningful learning process.
My plans after graduation:
After graduation, I will be attending Auburn in the fall to pursue a Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis and become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. I hope to one day open a private school for special education to address the individual needs of students with a variety of disabilities.
Three words to describe my experience at GSW: Best. Decision. Ever.
Madeline Taylor
ACCOUNTING
What I’ve Done at GSW: President Jimmy Carter Leadership Program member, Vice President of Kappa Delta, GSW Marshal, Accounting club officer, Charter member of Beta Alpha Psi, UWorld CPA Campus Ambassador
What I liked most about GSW:
My favorite part of attending GSW has been the community. At GSW, and in Americus, there is something truly special about the connections you make. I feel like the school completely embraced me which allowed me to grow and succeed more than I ever thought I could. Making the connections I have on campus has brought me a world of opportunity and I am eternally grateful to GSW for giving me that.
What I will take into the future:
Something that I will always take with me from my time at GSW is that learning isn’t linear. Throughout my academic journey, there have been many ups, downs, failures, plateaus, crash outs, and eventual successes. When you have ingrained in yourself that perfection is the only option, it can be a wakeup call coming to college. GSW taught me that there is so much to learn from my failures and that my shortcomings can lead to incredible growth.
My plans after graduation:
My plans for life after graduation include going to graduate school to get my Master of Accountancy degree at the University of Georgia. From there I plan to earn my CPA and work at a local CPA firm out of Albany, GA. I love the idea of starting my career and family close by.
Three words to describe my experience at GSW: I’ve been blessed.
What I will take into the future:
Jordyn Walker
DIGITAL ART
What I’ve Done at GSW:
Artist United
What I liked most about GSW:
I think the art program is an experience that I wouldn’t get elsewhere. When I wanted to go to art school as a kid, I didn’t envision learning how to blow glass or how to make sculptures out of molten metal, but getting that knowledge passed on to me in an age where more traditional art forms are becoming increasingly devalued feels like something precious. The art history courses have been an important part of it for me too, as it gives you a perspective on how society and culture have shifted and changed that I think most people miss in standard history classes.
Surprisingly, I think art history has had a major impact on how I see things in daily life, since a lot of artists in the past have echoes of their work in our society today (e.g. Tiffany-style lamps, Picasso paintings as house decor, etc.) and the philosophy around art is a hot topic of debate on social media and elsewhere for a myriad of reasons. There was a lot of stuff I already knew going in, but it certainly filled in the gaps and set the pieces into place.
My plans after graduation:
This question is always the hardest. Full-time work not being accessible to me has made it so that I’m pursuing an SSDI case, but I might be able to find some place in the design industry that I can fit into when I move closer to Atlanta. Anything could happen and I’m hoping for the best. My number one passion, though, is writing fiction, and I have my debut novel being edited for self-publishing. That major dream of mine from childhood finally becoming realized is what I’m most excited for.
Three words to describe my experience at GSW:
Enlightening, Challenging, Transformative
CAMPUS & COMMUNITY EVENTS:
May 11, May Term classes begin.
June 8, Summer 1 and Full-Term summer classes begin.
July 7, Summer 2 classes begin.
Aug. 12, Fall 2026 semester begins.
HAPPY RETIREMENT!
Dr. Sam Peavy, College of Arts & Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Geology & Physics
Dr. Julie Megginson, College of Arts & Sciences, Department of Music, Communication, & Emerging Media
Paula Gillis, Sr. Administrative Assistant, Department of History & Political Science
FIND IT, CHASE IT: A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Four years. A lot has happened since Fall 2022. Queen Elizabeth’s death, Barbenheimer, 2024, TikTok ban, and the Artemis II mission, just to name a few things. This whole time, I’ve been working on the Sou’Wester. 54 articles, 34 issues, four volumes, two advisors, and an uncountable number of hard days, long nights, and victories. I’ve made friends at the Sou’Wester and made friends join the Sou’Wester. In all this time, I never thought this day would come so soon. It’s a bittersweet day for me. I’m ready to leave, but I’m not ready to leave the paper. But I know I’m leaving it in good hands.
I’m excited to see what the future holds for the Sou’Wester. I fully intend to keep up with publications and watch what the team does over the next few years. I feel especially tied to the paper. Not only have I worked on it these four years, but I spent a long time creating the Horizon layout that you see before you.
I’d like to take this time to thank some people who I wouldn’t be here without. First, Dr. Ashley Jones, who was advisor to the paper when I arrived in 2022. Next, Dr. Jonathan Carter, who I’ve had a communication class with every semester since spring 2023. Dr. Annie Laurie Nichols, who not only is one of my communication professors, but also the person who showed me what I didn’t know about InDesign. Dr. Elizabeth Shiller, who currently serves as the newspaper’s advisor and as my academic advisor. Without the communication program, the paper, nor I, would be what it is today. Dr. Michelle Johnston, GSW’s president, who has informed multiple times how much she enjoys the paper, and who was happy to provide the paper with a few articles throughout the years. Finally, I want to thank YOU, the reader, for reading this far. This article is on the secondto-last page, so if you’ve made it this far, I know you’re truly dedicated.
To the staff who will continue into next semester, if there’s a story there, find it and chase it. Make GSW proud.
For the last time, Colby Hernandez Editor-in-Chief
Colby Hernandez
THE SOU’WESTER STAFF
Editor-in-Chief/Layout chernan4@radar.gsw.edu
Zac Monnier Reporter zmonnier@radar.gsw.edu
Dylan Scott Athletics Correspondent dscott6@radar.gsw.edu
Emily Crenshaw
Design Editor, Social Media Manager ecrensh3@radar.gsw.edu
Madison Vickers
Reporter, Social Media Assistant mvicker5@radar.gsw.edu
Desmond Martin Reporter dmarti23@radar.gsw.edu
Isabella Escovar Reporter iescovar@radar.gsw.edu
Amaya Martin Reporter amarti40@radar.gsw.edu
Madyson Mims Reporter mmims4@radar.gsw.edu
Dr. Elizabeth Shiller Faculty Advisor elizabeth.shiller@gsw.edu
Have a story idea or news tip? Let us know! souwester@gsw.edu
Spring 2026 Sou’Wester Team
Top to bottom, left to right: Dr. Elizabeth Shiller, Madyson Mims, Desmond Martin, Isabella Escovar, Emily Crenshaw, Amaya Martin, Colby Hernandez.
Not pictured: Zac Monnier, Dylan Scott, Madison Vickers.
