“THE VOICE OF GSW”
THE SOU’WESTER
VOL. 95, NO. 2 SEPTEMBER 2025
PROFESSOR MORGAN WHALEY FACES RARE CANCER WITH STRENGTH AND SUPPORT
IN THIS ISSUE
Olivia Register Reporter GSW Education professor Morgan Whaley is facing a rare and aggressive
cancer
diagnosis.
Despite the sudden change to her life and career, she continues to emphasize resilience, reflection, and the importance of community support. Photo provided by GSW. Whaley’s diagnosis came quickly. She has endometrial stromal sarcoma high grade, a rare cancer.
DAY OF GIVING 2025 PAGE 3 6TH ANNUAL HEART & SOLE 5K PAGE 4 ANNOUNCEMENTS PAGE 8 SPORTS PAGE 9 UNDER THE LIGHTS 2025 PAGE 10
“The mass in my uterus had doubled in size in one month along with Mets in my lungs and the lining of my organs. It was sudden and aggressive,” Whaley said. “I was with a friend when I found out I had cancer, and she said the first thing I said through tears was ‘this is just part of my story.’” Whaley credits her faith, which led to catching the diagnosis early. “I think God has given us the ability to know our bodies well enough to know when something is wrong. This ability led to treatment much sooner than if I would have ignored it,” said Whaley. Though stepping back from teaching has been difficult, she expresses gratitude for her family and coworkers, saying that her support system has been key. “My family has not left my side. My husband has taken me to every appointment and taken care of every need. My two boys… are the kings of making me laugh. My closest friends have fulfilled every need,” said Whaley. “This community has shown up in a way that I never could have predicted.” Looking ahead, she remains hopeful. “I can’t wait for the day I get to run around with my kids again or get back in the classroom! I look forward to a normal routine with my people, but I am also content in this battle as well,” she said. “This experience is refining me and changing me for the better.” Editor’s Note: September is Uterine Cancer Awareness Month. Additionally, the peach ribbon has been designated by the International Gynecologic Cancer Society as the symbol for uterine cancer awareness. The headline of this article has been changed to peach in support of Mrs. Whaley.
FIRST ANNUAL 9/11 MEMORIAL STAIR CLIMB Zac Monnier Reporter Americus Fire & Emergency Services hosted the 1st annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb at the Sumter County Courthouse on the crisp, false-fall morning of Sept. 11 in remembrance of those killed during the 2001 terrorist attack. Each climber carried a laminated photo ID of one of the 343 members of the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) killed at the World Trade Center 24 years ago. Before entering the four-story clocktower stairwell, each climber spoke the name and company of their memorial firefighter aloud and rang a ceremonial bell. The climb started at 8:46 a.m., marking the time the first tower
Descending the stairs together.
was struck. The climb emulated the 110 floors of the Twin Towers by having climbers ascend the courthouse stairs 27 times. Everyone was encouraged to climb what they can. Five local Sumter County Fire Rescue servicemen donned their full firefighting gear – weighing upwards of 45 pounds or more – before starting their climb. After the 14th or 15th set, Lt. John Carroll sent out the command to “come off air,” signaling his team to put down the cumbersome oxygen tanks for the rest of the climb. As the climb went on, Kenneth Moh, the assistant organizer for the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, announced the exact times that planes made impact. The climb also featured a convocation prayer led by Sheriff Eric D. Bryant Exterior shot of the stairwell.
and a rendition “Amazing Grace” by Kelly McCoy on Great Highland Bagpipes. NEVER FORGET.
Kelly McCoy.
2 September 2025
Father and child.
Matthew Chandler
DAY OF GIVING 2025 A SUCCESS Olivia Henderson Reporter GSW celebrated a successful Day of Giving on September 18. In total, GSW received donations from 602 donors across all 50 states. In addition to donors, GSW’s Day of Giving encouraged community members to gather at restaurants like La Hacienda, who participated in the fundraiser. La Hacienda donated half of the proceeds from participating Left to right: Jordan White, Mackkenzie Greene, and Tyeshia Walker.
customers’
meals
directly to the university.
The initiative allowed students, alumni, faculty, and supporters to contribute simply by enjoying a meal together, turning everyday dining into meaningful giving. “It’s amazing to see how everyone comes together to invest in the future of GSW,” said SGA Representative Jordan White. Student and faculty volunteers also played a key role in making the event successful while highlighting the importance of the event. “Giving back in this way shows the power of unity and the importance of supporting students like us,” added SGA Secretary Tyeshia Walker. Day of Giving was a resounding success. According to GSW’s Facebook page, 602 donors from all 50 states, as well as Great Britain, Canada, and South Korea, raised $223,021.
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS WITH ΚΑΨ Tyeshia Walker Reporter The Lampda Psi Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. hosted a domestic violence awareness talk for students, faculty, and staff on Sept. 18. Domestic violence is multifaceted and defined as a pattern of abusing a partner to gain or maintain control, encompassing physical, emotional, psychological, financial, and sexual abuse. Domestic violence can impact Continued on Page 4 Vol. 95 No. 2
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Continued from Page 3 any individual regardless of race, age, gender, or background. The event highlighted the impacts of alcohol, substance abuse, and the emotional toll of hate, criticism, and guilt tripping. The discussion also touched on physical and mental health issues, economic instability, and homelessness along with intergenerational effects. The awareness talk ended with an informative game of Kahoot for the audience to learn more about domestic violence.
6TH ANNUAL HEART & SOLE 5K Olivia Register Reporter Charley Varnum hosted the 6th Annual Heart and Sole 5K on Sept. 13 in memory of our brother Cole, who passed away at just 21 years old from sudden cardiac arrest. The race raises funds to place automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in schools, churches, businesses, and other community spaces.
Left to right: Amir Middleton, Luke Hansen, Riley Schultz, David Dickens, Trenton Mays,
To date, the Heart and Sole 5K has funded 23 AEDs across our community.
Lilly Wilson, Madison Vickers, Cassidy Ware
Two lives were saved this year because AEDs donated through the race were available when emergencies struck. “This was our best year yet with both attendees and sponsorships,” Varnum shared. “Knowing that the AEDs we’ve placed are being used, and that lives have been saved, keeps us motivated to keep going.” Every finish line crossed, every AED installed, and every life saved is a
Sophomore Landen Wiggins
way of honoring Cole’s memory. And with plans already underway for the 7th annual race in 2026, we’re committed to continuing this mission. The following are pictures from the event.
Setting up the clock.
Senior Trenton Mays and his partner.
4 September 2025
“SLOW DOWN FOR RUNNERS!”
Freshman Ava Cook
SEPTEMBER CROSSWORD: HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH
Across
Down
4. Spanish conquistador who defeated the Aztecs.
1. Female artist whose work blends surrealism, symbolism,
6. “Yes”
and Mexican folk culture.
8. Food staple with global reach.
2. Popular dish whose name means “little donkey.”
10. The most common Hispanic surname; over five million
3. Aztec capital; now Mexico City.
people have it.
5. New World civilization present until 1521; younger than
11. A word for love.
Oxford.
13. _____ Miranda; known for Hamilton and In the Heights.
7. South of California is _____ California.
14. Country-turned-state that won independence from
9. You eat this dance with chips.
Mexico in 1836.
12. _____ de Janeiro.
15. Country with a famous canal connecting two oceans.
16. Aztec emperor during Cortes’s conquest.
18. Incan city rediscovered in Peru.
17. Columbian singer whose hips don’t lie.
20. For Mexican food in Americus, you might eat at The
19. Island nation only 90 miles from Florida.
1800, Taco Reyes, or La _____.
ANSWERS ON PAGE 7
21. Leader who helped free much of Central and South America from Spanish rule.
Vol. 95 No. 2
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SURGE WINS PBC MASCOT CHALLENGE Colby Hernandez Editor-in-Chief Surge came out on top as the 2025 Peach Belt Conference Mascot of the Year. The Peach Belt Conference’s social media team announced Surge’s victory on September 4. Surge not only defeated last year’s champion, University of South Carolina Beaufort’s Finnegan, he triumphed over Georgia College’s Thunder, who knocked him out last year. Photo provided by GSW. Surge’s victory is even more impressive considering that Georgia College has nearly 2000 more students than GSW. Congratulations to GSW and to Surge for winning the 2025 PBC Mascot Challenge!
COMPUTER CLUB REPAIR WORKSHOP Olivia Henderson Reporter The Computer Club hosted a hands-on computer repair workshop in the Crawford Wheatley Lounge on September 22. Club President Kaidan Sanchez led the session, guiding students through the process of disassembling and reassembling a computer. During the workshop, Sanchez provided step-by-step instruction and explained the names and functions of each component, giving students both practical skills and a deeper understanding of computer hardware. The event offered participants a valuable opportunity to learn repair techniques in a supportive, interactive setting.
6 September 2025
CAMPUS & COMMUNITY KICKOFF CRUISE Zac Monnier Reporter Sumter Cycling partnered with GSW to conduct a family-friendly group bike ride to kick off the 8th annual Under the Lights event. President Johnston gave a few words to the cyclists who gathered next to the tennis courts, thanking Sumter Cycling for their advocacy for bicycling in Americus. She also praised the several faculty members who had come to join the pedal party, noting her commitment to strengthen the university’s ties to the local community. Police escorted the roughly 30 bikes as they rode from campus to downtown Americus and back again. Attendees were encouraged to log the 3-mile ride as part of the On the Move Challenge, one of Sumter Cycling’s annual events promoting health and fitness for workers and residents of Sumter County. “We loved being part of Under the Lights and bringing another way to make connections between GSW and the wider community,” said Sumter Cycling’s president, Ryan Iafigliola. “We want everyone to know about the bikes available on campus and the designated bike route that connects GSW with downtown. We also want everyone at GSW to know they are always welcome to join Sumter Cycling’s events!” To stay in the loop for future events, readers can follow Sumter Cycling on Facebook or sign up for their email list at sumtercycling.org. Students may also check out bikes for no charge at the Florrie Chappell Gymnasium using their student ID.
PAINT & SIP WITH CANES RAINBOW Olivia Henderson Reporter Cane’s Rainbow hosted a Paint & Sip event on Sept. 15. The event provided a creative space for students to express themselves through art. The Paint & Sip encouraged students to relax and enjoy the company of their peers.
CROSSWORD ANSWERS DOWN: FridaKahlo, burrito, Tenochtitlan, Aztec, Baja, salsa, rio, Montezuma, Shakira, Cuba. ACROSS: HernanCortes, si, taco, Garcia, amor, LinManuel, Texas, Panama, MachuPicchu, hacienda, Bolivar. Vol. 95 No. 2
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ANNOUNCEMENTS CAMPUS & COMMUNITY EVENTS: Oct. 1, Majors and Minors Fair, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Storm Dome. Additional Information can be found at: https:// canesconnect.gsw.edu/event/11481357 Oct. 3, First Friday: Think Pink, 5 p.m.-8 p.m., Downtown Americus. Additional Information can be found at: https://canesconnect.gsw.edu/event/11390308 Oct. 8, RHOyal Glow Self Care Night, 6 p.m.-8 p.m., SSC Conference Room. Additional Information can be found at: https://canesconnect.gsw.edu/event/11454158 Oct. 10, TEDxGeorgiaSouthwesternU, 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Additional Information can be found at: https:// canesconnect.gsw.edu/event/11343178 Oct. 11, Glassblown Pumpkin Patch, 9 a.m.- 1 p.m., Mobile Glassblowing Studios. Additional Information can be found at: https://canesconnect.gsw.edu/event/11595613 Oct. 14, Scandals and Skeletons of American Politics Sweet Treat Tabling, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., MSC Hallway. Additional Information can be found at: https://canesconnect.gsw.edu/event/11603497 Oct. 17, Red Cross Blood Drive, 8:15 a.m.-6 p.m., Americus First Baptist Church. Additional Information can be found at: https://canesconnect.gsw.edu/event/11397613 Oct. 21, Kappa Don’t Haze, 12:30 p.m.-2 p.m., MSC Hallway. Additional Information can be found at: https:// canesconnect.gsw.edu/event/11516126 Oct. 23, Red Tie Hygiene Drive, 6 p.m.-7:15 p.m., 2nd Floor SSC Conference Rooms. Additional Information can be found at: https://canesconnect.gsw.edu/event/11516542 Oct. 24, GSW Humanities Symposium proposal deadline. For more information: https://www.gsw.edu/artsand-sciences/humanities-symposium Oct. 25, Sumter Pink Walk for Cancer, 9 a.m.-10 a.m., Phoebe Sumter Medical Center. Additional Information can be found at: https://canesconnect.gsw.edu/event/11402457 Oct. 25, Peace Day, 1 p.m.-9 p.m., Rylander Park. Additional Information can be found at: https://canesconnect. gsw.edu/event/11694930 Oct. 26, Arts in the Park, 1 p.m.-6 p.m., Rylander Park. Additional Information can be found at: https:// canesconnect.gsw.edu/event/11694966
8 September 2025
SPORTS GSW GOLF PERFORMS EXCEPTIONALLY WELL IN OPENING SEASON TOURNAMENT, MAKE SIGNIFICANT COMEBACK Dylan Scott Athletics Correspondent GSW’s Golf team had a dramatic finish in their opening game, finishing third out of 15. Despite a slow first round, shooting 7 over par and finishing in ninth place, the Hurricanes went on a tear in the next two rounds, shooting a combined 12 under par in rounds two and three. Their third-round performance is what made this tournament special for the team. The Hurricanes catapulted themselves from ninth the third, completing the tournament 5 under par. The late surge earned the team a tournament best with a 10 under par in the final round with players, Jordan Jones and Oscar Hammar, finishing top 10 in personal score as well.
UPCOMING EVENTS SOCCER Men’s
Women’s
Sept. 27- vs Florida Southern 7 p.m.
Sept. 27- at Middle Georgia State 1:30 p.m.
Oct. 1- vs Flagler College 7 p.m.
Oct. 1- at Albany State 7 p.m.
Oct. 4- at Lander University 3:30 p.m.
Oct. 4- vs USC Aiken 7 p.m.
Oct. 8- vs Clayton State 7 p.m.
Oct. 8- at USC Beaufort 3 p.m.
Oct. 11- at North Georgia 7 p.m.
Oct. 11- vs North Georgia 7 p.m.
Oct. 15- vs Middle Georgia State 7 p.m.
Oct. 22- at Lander University 7 p.m.
Oct. 18- vs Lander University 5 p.m.
Oct. 25- vs Clayton State 7 p.m.
Oct. 22- at Flagler College 7 p.m. Oct. 25- vs USC Aiken 5 p.m.
CROSS COUNTRY Men’s
Women’s
Sept. 26- Bobcat Invitational hosted by Albany State
Sept. 26- Bobcat Invitational hosted by Albany State
University 6:30 p.m.
University 5:40 p.m.
Oct. 11- Clark Atlanta University Panther Cross Country Invitational time TBA Oct. 25 Peach Belt Conference Championships hosted by Georgia College and State University time TBA
MEN’S GOLF Oct. 6- Rounds 1 and 2 National Preview time TBA Oct. 7- Round 3 National Preview time TBA Oct. 20- Rounds 1 and 2 Golfweek Fripp Island to Bermuda Invite time TBA Oct. 21- Round 3 Golfweek Fripp Island to Bermuda Invite time TBA Vol. 95 No. 2
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RESULTS FOR SEPT. 4-24 SOCCER Women’s
Men’s
Sept. 4- vs Brewton-Parker College W 5-0
Sept. 5- vs Embry-Riddle W 1-0
Sept. 6- at Rollins College L 2-0
Sept. 7- Converse College Cancelled
Sept. 10- at Abraham Baldwin W 11-0
Sept. 11- at Alabama-Huntsville L 4-3
Sept. 14- vs Valdosta State L 1-0
Sept. 17- at Middle Georgia State W 3-0
Sept. 17- vs Saint Leo W 2-0
Sept. 20- vs North Georgia L 4-3
Sept. 20- vs Columbus State L 2-0
Sept. 24- at USC Aiken W 3-0
Sept. 24- vs Georgia College L 1-0
CROSS COUNTRY Women’s
Men’s
Sept. 12- HOKA + Nights of Thunder Cross Country
Sept. 12- HOKA + Nights of Thunder Cross Country
Fest hosted at Apalachee Regional XC Park 14th out
Fest hosted at Apalachee Regional XC Park 8th out
of 14
of 9
Sept. 19- Willie Laster Invitational hosted by Albany
Sept. 19- Willie Laster Invitational hosted by Albany
State University 9th out of 12
State University 6th out of 9
MEN’S GOLF Sept. 15- Rounds 1 and 2 Mizuno Intercollegiate hosted by the University of North Georgia 3rd out of 15
GSW OPENS FALL SPORTS SEASON WITH A BANG Dylan Scott Athletics Correspondent Victory was in the air and under the lights at the GSW 8th annual “Under the Lights” event. The festivities featured food, fun, and fireworks as the GSW community came together to kick off the fall sports season. GSW’s mascot Surge, recently crowned best Peach Belt Conference mascot, wore his victory sash as he took photos with guests and hyped up the crowd before the main event. The Lady Hurricanes beat Brewton Parker Christian University 5-0, with help from a massive 27 to 2 shots on goal advantage. The highlight of the game was Freshman Jordin Gundin, who, in her first ever collegiate game, scored the third most goals in a single match by a GSW player with 2 goals. After the win, fireworks lit up the night sky in an astonishing display of beauty not only marking the conclusion of one victory but celebrating the many more to come.
10 September 2025
COLBY HERNANDEZ | EDITOR-IN-CHIEF It’s hard to believe, but this is my fourth and final year working for the Sou’Wester. I’m a senior Communication major and will graduate in spring. I plan on doing social media managment for a National Park after I graduate and eventually get my masters in education. As editor-in-chief, I create the layout of the paper and perform edits. Additionally, I’m covering the College of Nursing Sciences and create the crossword puzzles in each edition, as well as other miscellaneous duties.
AMARI RUDISON | COPY EDITOR Hi everyone, my name is Amari! I am a Graduating Senior English major from Atlanta, Georgia. On campus, I’m President of the Mu Rho Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc, I am a Storm Spotter, and I’m a part of the SUAVE club. I’m getting my Masters in English at Georgia College and State University Spring 2026 and I’m super excited to continue my education. Writing is a passion of mine which is why I’m on the Sou’Wester team but it’s also why, I work in the Writing Center, where I help all students write and understand their papers and grow as the young writers they are!
ZAC MONNIER | REPORTER What’s good? I moved to Americus for work in 2021 and started picking up some classes two years ago. I attend Calvary Episcopal Church, volunteer and donate to the local arts scene, and love playing with quirky tech like Onewheels and electric unicycles. As a non-traditional student, I write so that I can connect to campus life and witness the diverse perspectives of my colleagues and classmates. I cover events for the College of Arts & Sciences and help cover Nursing & Health Sciences + International Students & Study Abroad.
TYESHIA WALKER | REPORTER Hi everyone, my name is Tye! I’m a senior computer science major and management minor from Abbeville, GA. I aspire to get my master’s in computer science and cybersecurity after graduation and get a career in my field. On campus, I’m a Storm Spotter, president of Canes Rainbow, vicepresident of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and for the Young Democrats club, and SGA secretary. I like to read, play tennis, and play with my cat, Andy. I love working for the Sou’Wester because writing has always been a passion of mine and this is a great outlet to explore that passion and grow as a writer. Vol. 95 No. 2
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OLIVIA REGISTER | REPORTER Hello! My name is Olivia, but most people call me Liv! I’m an early childhood education major and I’m minoring in music. This is my third year of college, but I’m technically a sophomore. I’m active in the GSW band and I’m president of GSW’s Baptist Collegiate Ministry. I’ll be covering religion on campus as well as the education and music department. I’m looking forward to writing for the Sou’Wester!
DYLAN SCOTT | ATHLETICS CORRESPONDENT My name is Dylan Scott. I am a Junior majoring in Communication and Emerging Media with a Minor in Sports Journalism. I primarily focus on sports coverage for the Sou’Wester.
OLIVIA HENDERSON | REPORTER My name is Olivia Henderson. I’m a senior Computer Science major. On campus, I serve as president of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and president of the Gospel Choir. I’m also the social media chair for the Young Democrats, a Resident Leader, Desk Assistant, and an active member of the Computer Club and Exercise Science Club. In my free time, I enjoy planning events and connecting with others. I love working for the Sou’Wester because it gives me the opportunity to share student voices and highlight the vibrant life of our campus.
EMILY CRENSHAW | DIGITAL MEDIA DESIGN Hi, I’m Emily! I am a senior Communication & Emerging Media major joining the Sou’Wester for Digital Media Design. My anticipated graduation date is spring of 2026. As the designer, I will be creating art and illustration content for the paper. In addition, I will write articles as needed. In my free time, I can be found dilly-dallying with my dog or being terrorized by my sixteen-pound cat.
12 September 2025