The Rampage Apr 2025

Bluefield University Student Newspaper | bu Rampage.com

ISSUE No. 23 | April 2025

Featured Stories 11

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E-Sports at BU LOOKING AHEAD

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FOR CHANGE Peterson’s Plans

Mud Pig Day 50TH ANNUAL

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Table of Contents

Contents Opinions 4 BU Students Share Silly

17 Sliding into Summer: Students Gear Up for 50th Annual Mud Pig Day Elle Gunter Students 19 Student Profile: Elei Haynes Rachel White 20 Students from Warmer Climates Share Thoughts on Winter in Bluefield Gabriel Delvalle Sports 21 E-Sports at BU: Looking Ahead to Growth and Competition Caleb Honaker 23 BU Sports Teams Raise Funds Callie Dent 24 BU Women’s Soccer Coach Departs Callie Dent 25 Bump, Set...Search? Savannah Taylor Faculty Features 27 The Heroes Behind College Athletics: National Athletic Training Month Elle Gunter

Superstitions Zander Slough

Stories 7

Students Express Frustrations with MyBU Peter Finn

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Communicating Bramwell Savannah Taylor

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A Flood of Hope Savannah Taylor 10 BU Admissions Team Focusing on Transfers Gabriel Delvalle 11 President Peterson’s Plans for Change at BU Caleb Honaker 12 United Methodists Unite Against Thirst John Thompson 13 Communication Program Plans to Move to Cox Center John Thompson 14 Students Participate in Red Cross Blood Drive Rachel White 15 Campus Ministries: Building Faith at BU Peter Finn

The Rampage Student Newspaper © Bluefield University. Magazine printed by Wordsprint. Design by Ben Ayers, Jenny Mitchell, Chesed Russell, and John Thompson. Artwork and brand designed exclusively for The Rampage. Special thanks to Professor Chris Shoemaker for making our student newspaper possible and giving students a voice.

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Opinions

BU Students Share Silly Superstitions by Zander Slough | Sports Communication • 2028

S uperstitions are beliefs or practices that have evolved due to fear of the unknown or noticing that certain events or activities relate to how things happen without reason. Superstitions are most commonly practiced by people because of to a feeling of control or comfort that results when things are unpredictable or events are out of human control. These superstitions are often firmly rooted in tradition, culture, or experience and signify a desire to control destiny or keep bad luck at bay. Whether it is not walking under a ladder, knocking on wood, or carrying a charm, superstitions can provide individuals with a sense of security or explain the arbitrariness of life. However, they lack the scientific basis to demonstrate that they are effective. Some of the greatest athletes have superstitions; here are some examples. Former professional hockey player Wayne Gretzky had a superstition about his stick. He would always keep a certain number of sticks with him and avoid changing them during a streak of good performance. Former NBA great Michael Jordan was famously known for wearing his University of North Carolina shorts under his Chicago Bulls uniform. He believed they brought him good luck and comfort. Bluefield University students are no different as they have their own superstitions. For example, BU baseball player Buzz Greenman has a superstition that he thinks helps him play better. “I must wear my glasses when pitching,” Greenman said. “It helps me pitch and focus better.” Ricky Vaughn from the movie Major League had the same superstition, and BU football player Jay Phelps has a superstition related to Gatorade. “I have to drink two bottles or glasses of blue Gatorade or Powerade before I play,” Phelps said. “I have been doing this since high school and it makes me play better.” Former BU football player Kerly Thelusme said he never walks under a ladder because he’s heard that if you do it will bring bad luck, and BU worship and praise leader Savannah Taylor said she always knocks on wood after saying something she hopes to happen.

Other BU students, like graphic communication major John Thompson, said he doesn’t pick up a penny if the “tail” side is up because he thinks it’s “unlucky.” Fellow communication major Karyss Milby is not afraid of the penny, but instead spilling salt. “My superstition is that if I spill a salt shaker I have to pick the salt up and throw it over my shoulder (to avoid bad luck),” Milby said. So, whether passed down through generations or created through personal experience, superstitions continue to play a role in many people’s lives, even on the campus of Bluefield University. While science may not back up their effectiveness, these small rituals and beliefs give people a sense of comfort and control. From athletes sticking to pregame routines to students avoiding bad luck, superstitions offer a glimpse into how we try to shape our fate, one lucky charm or knock on wood at a time.

BU Baseball player Buzz Greenman says he has to wear his glasses when pitching a game.

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Through scholarships and grants in the areas of Education; the Arts, Culture and the Humanities; Health; and Human Services, the Community Foundation matches the generosity of the people of our area with the needs of area organizations and individuals.

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Students Express Frustrations with MyBU by Peter Finn | Sports Communication • 2028

F or many students at Bluefield University, MyBU is an essential tool for managing academic and financial information. However, numerous students have voiced frustrations about its usability, citing issues with accessibility, navigation, and functionality. BU student Charles Howard described his struggles with MyBU’s search function. “It is hard to look something up when you are intentionally looking for it,” Howard said. “For example, looking up courses or even your transcript -- it’s hard to access simply.” Going through the hassle of getting to something simple can be frustrating, Howard added, and it can also be time-consuming if you have to go through extra steps to get needed information. This frustration is shared by other students who find themselves wasting valuable time trying to locate basic information. The search bar, students say, often fails to provide relevant results, forcing users to click through multiple pages to find what they need. For students juggling coursework, extracurricular activities, and personal responsibilities, these inefficiencies only add to their stress. “It (MyBU) can glitch me out at times and can be really frustrating,” BU student Max Boyd said, “especially when you’ve already gotten to the website you’re on.” BU’s Tim Robinette, director of technology services, said the IST Department is well aware of the navigation and accesibility issues with MyBU, but he added that some of those problems are out of the control of IST because of the security measures on the portal. “We fully understand the justification for these complaints,” Robinette said. “Our student portal is directly tied in with our student information system (SIS), which is designed with security in mind to protect students’ academic and financial information. Due to this, many aspects of the design were not chosen, implemented, or are in control by IST. That said, we do agree with students that there is a need for improvement in this area. Moving forward, we will work on improving organization and navigation of MyBU.” Students also expressed concerns about getting logged out of MyBU unexpectedly or encountering loading errors at crucial moments, such as when registering for

classes or checking their financial balances. Alden Addington also noted difficulties with navigation. “Trying to see where your transcript is at is really annoying, and it can also lead to misunderstandings,” said Addington, who added that he wished the MyBU layout were more intuitive. “Sometimes you end up clicking through multiple pages just to find something simple.” This issue is particularly problematic, students say, because it can cause them to miss important deadlines or overlook critical information, impacting their academic progress and financial obligations. The lack of an intuitive layout, they say, forces students to spend additional time navigating the portal, detracting from their focus on studies and campus life. In addition, some students have reported difficulties logging in, experiencing technical errors, and struggling to find key academic information. As a result, students often turn to peers or faculty for help, further slowing down their ability to complete important tasks independently. “IST has always appreciated feedback from students as it gives us students’ perspectives on where we can strive to provide a better experience,” Robinette said. He also encouraged students to reach out to IST when they’re dealing with specific issues. Students experiencing issues with MyBU are encouraged to use the “Support” tab/tool in MyBU to submit a request for assistance with the Information and Systems Technology (IST) Department. Students may also email IST to request support at support@bluefield.edu .

Photo provided by Rampage student photographer Zander Slouth.

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 Stories

Communicating Bramwell by Savannah Taylor | Communication • 2028

Grapic provided by Rampage student editor and writer Savannah Taylor.

B luefield University is working with a video interviews with residents, led by Professor Allen Roberts, chair of the Department of Graphic Communication, and a team of Communications students. Guided by the motto “no story is too small,” the Bramwell Foundation is leading an effort to preserve Appalachian history with invaluable help from the Bluefield University Communications Department. The Bramwell Foundation wanted to preserve the picturesque town’s history with recorded interviews of the town’s citizens. Project facilitator Kellan Marcum spoke about the importance of preserving Bramwell’s history. “So much of Appalachia’s rich history has been lost,” Marcum said. “Bramwell is an especially bright jewel among the treasures of West Virginia that we are determined not to let slip through our fingers…The past informs the future, as they say.” Bramwell Foundation vice president and project lead, Sharon Workman, recognizing the rich oral history kept by her fellow Bramwell residents, saw the value in interviewing them. The fourth generation Bramwell citizen was selected for this important task because of her devotion to Bramwell and its legacy — made evident by her countless hours of volunteer work and involvement in the town. nearby town, Bramwell, West Virginia, to preserve its history with one-on-one

After reaching out to several different companies in hopes of starting the project, it was clear that the non-profit organization that is The Bramwell Foundation would have to explore a different route. Enter Bluefield University. Marcum made a phone call to the university, speaking eventually to Burma McChesney in Academic Affairs, asking if BU would be willing to help. The rest? History. “Sometimes God puts you in a certain place at a certain time,” Marcum said, “and Professor Roberts cruised by her (McChesney’s) office just as we were talking. She connected us, and we’ve been working together on this special project ever since.” “Special” is a sentiment also held by Roberts, who said, “I’m partial to preservation, local history, and that sort of thing, too, even more so here in recent years. I see the value in that, so it (the project) struck a chord with me.” This project not only strikes a chord with Roberts but also with the mission of Bluefield University. “It was a good fit for us (Bluefield University),” Roberts said. “When you can give back to the community, it pushes our mission statement here. Giving back and servant leadership: that’s where things seem like a perfect fit for us.” Regarding the Bramwell Foundation’s belief that Bluefield University is a good fit? Rave reviews all around.

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“Professor Roberts is the embodiment of quiet courtesy and easy-going professionalism,” Marcum said. “His students have impressed us, too; they work well together, have a positive outlook, and creative minds. They’re also funny. On the whole, we’re charmed. We are grateful for all of them and their hard work.” Workman has also been impressed by the students for their professionalism, character, and hard work. She even shared that the students have gone above and beyond in devoting personal time to the project. “They’ve made a point to do Saturdays, even the Saturday leading into Spring Break, which was very impressive to me,” Workman said. Roberts is also impressed by his students. “I’ve been very pleased with the passion and the initiative that some of the students have shown to me,” Roberts said. “I have a couple students that are going above and beyond what I’ve asked of them. I’ve been very pleased with how the students are approaching interview subjects, the project in general, and just respecting the history and the people behind it.” Workman, seeing this respect toward the history of Bramwell shown by the students, wishes she had that when she was their age. R ecently, heavy rain and flooding ravaged Bluefield and the surrounding areas, compounding the already pressing effects of Hurricane Helene just a few months before. One of the areas most affected: McDowell County, West Virginia, which has suffered greatly. McDowell ranks as one of the poorest and sickest areas in not only Appalachia but also America. Burdened already by poverty and drug addiction, the last thing McDowell needed was a natural disaster to further exacerbate an already struggling area. Seeing the needs in the area in the aftermath of the floods, Bluefield University Student Ministries (BUSM) organized a donation collection to go out to McDowell and its residents. Project organizer and Bluefield University sophomore Amelia Garrett was placed in charge of receiving donations from fellow students. The drive took donations such as clothes, cleaning supplies, and non-perishable foods to First Baptist Church in Bluefield, West Virginia, where an

“I appreciate young people taking advantage, or like me, disadvantage, or not thinking about Bramwell and history, and being interested,” she said. “When I was young, I wish I had.” Many students in this project are not only appreciating the history involved but also the experience it provides. “Projects like this are especially important to Bramwell because they help preserve history, while also giving students valuable hands-on experience,” said Andrew LaPan, a senior on the Bramwell team. “Working with real clients, professional equipment, and industry-standard software helps students build practical skills that will benefit them in their future careers.” Despite the gap in seniority, freshman John Thompson also sees the opportunity to gain experience from this project. “I have enjoyed getting out of the classroom and getting hands-on experience,” Thompson said. “The project has been a great opportunity to step into the world of communication.”

A Flood of Hope by Savannah Taylor | Communication • 2028

outpouring of generosity was evident, according to Moriah Mingo, BUSM member and volunteer worker for the project. “There were a lot of other donations...it was a lot,” Mingo said, “and they had already taken out four truckloads worth of stuff.” Mingo said she hopes the donations bless the people of McDowell as much as she was blessed by the experience of giving. “When people say, ‘Giving makes you feel better,’ it really is true,” said Mingo, who added a story about how the generosity of a retail worker uplifted her. “I was having a bad day,” Mingo recalled, “and then I went to Dollar Tree, and this woman working there donated $30 worth of stuff, and I was in a good mood for the next couple of days.” One can only pray that this flood of hope reaches McDowell County and all flood-impacted areas.

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BU Admissions Team Focusing on Transfers by Gabriel Delvalle | Sports Communication • 2025

B luefield University admissions counselors are increasing their efforts to recruit transfer students, and the work is paying off, based on this spring’s transfer and new student numbers. According to Travis Roberts, vice president for enrollment and marketing, 17 new transfers enrolled at BU this spring, up slightly compared to transfer numbers from spring 2024, but even more encouraging were overall new student numbers this spring that were up to 28 compared to 18 overall new student numbers in spring 2024. Brooke Osborne, BU’s interim director of traditional admissions, spoke about the new efforts to increase transfer student numbers. She said the growth is a result of a combination of strategic efforts designed to make Bluefield University an appealing option for students looking to further their higher education. She added that transfer admissions counselor Austin Bolden is a key factor behind the rising transfer numbers. “He’s the person who really runs the show when it comes to transfers,” Osborne said. “He goes above and beyond to be present on campus and really focuses on making himself visible. His approach is all about making connections and creating an inviting atmosphere for transfer students.” Osborne also praised Bolden’s commitment to long hours and extra efforts to recruit prospective transfer students. “He stays late, calls students, and really shows his heart and dedication to making Bluefield University a welcoming place for them,” Osborne said.

In addition to Bolden’s personal efforts, BU has taken a number of steps to ensure transfer students have a smooth transition. For starters, Roberts has modified articulation agreements with other colleges to ease students’ transitions to BU and to ensure their credits transfer successfully and that they have a clear, efficient path to graduation. “The updates to the articulation agreements were specifically designed to keep students informed and to make the transfer process as friendly as possible,” Osborne said. Osborne added that the university also tailors its process to meet the unique needs of transfer students, focusing on affordability and a supportive environment. “Affordability is huge,” Osborne said. “A lot of our transfer students come from community colleges where they can attend for free, so it’s important that BU offers an affordable option for them.” She said the university’s personal touch is another key advantage. “Because the campus is small, transfer students have more opportunities for personal connections with faculty and staff, which makes them feel more at home and supported,” Osborne said. Updated articulation agreements, a focus on affordability and personal touches, and the commitment and dedication of admissions counselors all have created a transfer-friendly environment at Bluefield University. Because of this, more and more students are considering BU in search of a more personalized and supportive college experience.

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President Peterson’s Plans for Change at BU by Caleb Honaker | Digital Marketing, Modern Media • 2028

D r. Steve Peterson became the 10th president of Bluefield University in July of 2024, coming to BU with a career in higher education spanning nearly 30 years at such schools as Houston Christian University and Liberty University. Since stepping into his leadership role, Dr. Peterson has been focused on student success, online education, financial support, campus life engagement, and improvements to campus facilities. Regarding student success, Dr. Peterson said he has prioritized improving student support services. “Student success is at the heart of everything we do,” Dr. Peterson said. “One key initiative is expanding our academic support services, including tutoring and career resources. We also continually evaluate and seek to improve our advising process to ensure that every student has a clear path to graduation.” Regarding online education, Dr. Peterson said the plans are to expand and improve Bluefield’s online program just as much as its in person learning to make online education more accessible and flexible for students. “We know that flexibility is critical for higher education today,” Dr. Peterson said. “We are committed to strengthening our online offerings by expanding course availability, improving instructional design, and creating an engaging learning environment for our students.” In addition to making the online program more flexible, Dr. Peterson said he wants to significantly grow enrollment numbers. “We believe we have quality programs, and we are launching a major marketing initiative to spread the word,” Dr. Peterson said. “I expect our enrollment to double in the next few years.” Regarding financial support and affordability, Dr. Peterson acknowledged that higher education is expensive and that affordable education matters to students. “Bluefield has always been committed to providing affordable, quality education,” Dr. Peterson said. “In recent years, we have reset tuition to lower the total cost of attendance and frozen tuition for the upcoming academic year.” Dr. Peterson added that BU institution aid for students is almost $7 million annually and that the university is working to secure additional scholarships through donor commitment and strategic partnerships. “Recently, we initiated conversations with university alumni and friends to create new endowed scholarships that will provide long-term financial assistance to students,” he said.

In addition to making Bluefield more affordable, Dr. Peterson said he wants to grow the campus culture by making it a more vibrant atmosphere. He said he’s working closely with Corey Mullins, BU’s vice president for Student Development to achieve this goal. “We are investing in student-led initiatives, expanding leadership development programs, and increasing opportunities for campus-wide events,” Dr. Peterson said. “One of the special things about Bluefield is that we all have a chance to get to know each other. We are on this journey together, and I am committed to creating a campus that engages all students and provides more opportunities for interaction.” Bluefield University’s campus is more than 100 years old with some of the school’s original buildings still in use today. With age, Dr. Peterson said, comes the need for modernization. “We have several exciting developments regarding our campus facilities,” Dr. Peterson said. “As you know, our campus is over 100 years old, and some of its buildings have been standing for a very long time. We are working to update these buildings and make them more relevant to today’s needs.” Among those improvements is an HVAC updgrade project in Lansdell Hall, which will also include the replacement of all the windows in the building to enhance energy efficiency and aesthetics. Renovations to Alumni Hall should begin soon once final donations for a matching gift are received. The hope is to reopen Alumni Hall as early as this fall. Improvements are also being made to the Sims Wellness Center to make it a more desirable space for the community, and upgrades are also in the works for Easley Library. “Easley Library received a donation to enhance the digital learning spaces within that facility,” Dr. Peterson said. “We have a group dedicated to upgrading that facility to serve the needs of our students, creating more study spaces and collaborative learning spaces.”

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Stories

United Methodists Unite Against Thirst by John Thompson | Graphic Communication • 2028

I n February of this year, McDowell County, West Virginia, was ravaged by what is being considered one of the worst floods the county has ever experienced. Roads and homes were flooded or destroyed, schools in the area closed, and people were unable to reach stores to obtain supplies. The past couple of months have been difficult, but thanks to outside help from other counties in the two Virginias, McDowell County has hope. Even Bluefield has reached out with local churches creating water and supply drives to support the people of McDowell County. McDowell County has had a history of flooding; however, after the most recent flood, many residents were shocked to find muddy, rust colored water pouring from their sinks. Even after running the water for 15 minutes the water spilling out still had visible sediments and contaminants. This disastrous circumstance puts a strain on families who now need to purchase bottled water to have a source of clean drinking water. This is where Trinity United Methodist Church and Bland Street United Methodist Church have stepped in. For the past nine months, the two churches have come together to start a series of “water runs” in which church goers are encouraged to purchase cases of bottled water and leave them at the church after Sunday services. The water is then collected by volunteers and church leaders to be taken to Boyd’s Chapel and Jenkin Jones United Methodist Church. Then, volunteers from the local churches in McDowell collect and distribute bottles of water to residents. “It started with an idea at a West Virginia conference with a resolution by pastor Brad Davis,“ said Pat Hayes, lay leader of Trinity United Methodist Church. “The resolution talked about the water and food problems in McDowell County. After reading that resolution we thought we live right beside McDowell County. We should be able to help somehow and some way through our church. (We) called Brad Davis, and when we asked what we could do to help, we were told they could use water.” Both churches have been collecting water and, with the combined effort of the two churches, the water situation in McDowell is changing for the better. On top of the cases of water, both churches have been able to raise money and offerings to

Photo provided by Rampage student photographer Gabriel Delvalle.

aid flood relief in McDowell County. Bland Street and Trinity United Methodist churches hope that not only will their efforts support flood relief, but also strengthen the connections and bonds between the churches and communities. “The main thing is building the relationship with those folks,” Hayes said. “I mean the water is the easy part. The people of our two churches donate to the cause, and the ladies who raise money for missions have given us donations to help with the cost. The ministry has continued to blossom through God’s hand, but what we do is the easy part. The women who collect and distribute the water do all the heavy lifting.” The monthly water drives have sent more than an estimated 15,000 individual bottles over the past nine months. Trinity United Methodist Church, Bland Street United Methodist Church, Jenkin Jones United Methodist Church, and Boyd’s Chapel have come together and demonstrated the importance of community and friendship not only between churches, but with one another. “It takes passion to help folks and to want the best for them,“ Hayes added, ”and through our churches that, to me, is the best way to do it.”

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Communication Program Plans to Move to Cox Center by John Thompson | Graphic Communication • 2028

H ave you ever ventured to the southwest corner of campus? If you have, you may have stumbled upon the Cox Visual Arts Center and wondered, “Why have I never been here before?” The Cox Visual Arts Center once hosted a large variety of classes, but now is, for lack of a better term, collecting dust. Aside from an occasional yoga class, the building has not received much love, but 2025 has brought in the winds of change with new administration and potential plans to revitalize the center into a hub of creativity. Along with the new administration, Bluefield University’s Communication Department has grown and developed not only new students, but new technologies, as well. This growth has caused issues for the department, which currently does not have the adequate space for the new technologies and tools. The department has been brainstorming and creating plans to move the program and its classes into the Cox Visual Arts Center. Currently, the department is scattered around campus. Communication professors have offices in Lansdell, while many of the classes meet in Rish Hall or in the Mac Lab in the Science Center. One of the more recent developments for the department is its podcasting equipment, which currently is being stored and used in Easley Library. The department hopes to condense and create a hub for communication and art facilities by using the Cox Visual Arts Center. “Having everything be in one place for students, giving Communication students a home on campus, maybe it builds camaraderie and fellowship between students.” - Allen Roberts, assistant professor of graphic communication Aside from cosmetics, the Cox Visual Arts Center, more commonly known as the art building, already possessed most of the facilities to house Communication Arts. One accommodation stood in its way: internet access. In the past, the art building’s location prevented it from receiving optimal internet connectivity. This was a big hurdle for the department to jump if this plan was to work. Thankfully, with Bluefield’s internet being improved over the course of several semesters, the Cox Visual Arts Center is no longer off the grid.

This new and improved internet access has opened the door for classrooms and labs to be placed inside, which would allow communication classes to take place in one centralized area. Not only would communication students have a hub for classes, but the entire student body would be able to use the building as a hub for creativity. The podcasting and 3-D printing technology would have a home and would be much more accessible to the student body as a whole. “I love that part of campus. In the couple of years since art died out, I think there has been a little bit of a stigma about hanging out around there. It’s not a very inviting place to go to work or to do things. We want to change that and make it a vibrant, active part of campus. Hopefully, Communication Arts can do that. I’m grateful for the leadership that shares this vision and has given us that freedom to do something with this space.” - Allen Roberts, assistant professor of graphic communication Innovation, creativity, and passion, all ideas the department hopes to fulfill and instill within the campus through the Cox Visual Arts Center. Things seem to be looking up for the once-forgotten and lonely building tucked away in the southwest corner of campus.

Photo provided by Rampage student photographer Malique Gordon.

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Students Participate in Red Cross Blood Drive by Rachel White | Communication, Business • 2027

Graphic provided by Rampage student graphic designer Talan Poe.

B luefield University partnered with the with Red Cross for many years, In fact, this is the fifth blood drive that BU’s Bethany Justis, executive assistant to the president, has coordinated. This time she did more than organize the event; she also donated blood even though she said she wasn’t too thrilled about the needle. Her son, BU student Cameron Justis, was there to distract her while she was donating. After her donation, the Red Cross sent her a message about when and where her blood was used. “That was really meaningful to me, and it made the little stick in the arm worth it,” Justis said about the Red Cross’ efforts to let donors know how their blood is used. While around half of those who donated this spring are community members, there were students who made the decision to donate, too. Justis shared that she is “always happy to see generous students stepping up to give blood.” One of those students who actually donates nearly every drive is Jonathan Collier. Collier said he has had many friends and family members who have needed blood transfusions, which is one of the biggest reasons why he donates. “It is more important to donate blood because the need for blood transfusions is at an all-time high,” American Red Cross to host a blood drive on Friday, February 27. BU has been partnering

Collier said, “and donations are an easy and simple way to help people in the community supply this need.” Other students provided their reasons for donating, as well. Soccer player Liberty Wolf said she believes giving blood is important because of the difference it can make. “It provides important resources for hospitals in order to treat patients,” Wolf said, “and it is a small thing that could make a difference.” John Thompson, a member of the Ram Band, said he participated in the blood drive because he has a rare blood type and knows that he can help others by donating. “It costs nothing to give blood,” he added. According to the American Red Cross website, “Every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood. It is essential for surgeries, cancer treatment, chronic illnesses, and traumatic injuries. Whether a patient receives whole blood, red cells, platelets or plasma, this lifesaving care starts with one person making a generous donation.” Donating blood is a generous act that can save someone’s life. Justis said the next blood drive is not until fall 2025, but she encourages everyone to participate. “I encourage everyone to think about donating blood at least once in their lives,” Justis said.

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Campus Ministries: Building Faith at BU by Peter Finn | Sports Journalism • 2028

B luefield University Campus Ministries plays a pivotal role in shaping the spiritual lives of students. Key figures in that process are Mason West, director of Campus Ministries, and Abigail Bradley, student leader for Bluefield University Student Ministries (BUSM). Both work together to create a vibrant, faith-centered community on campus. West, whose primary role is to help students connect with God, spoke about the importance of building meaningful relationships with students and engaging with them in daily spiritual practices. “My role is to help kids connect with God,” West said. “One way I encourage that is by having students connect with my associates and attend chapel daily.” According to West, these daily gatherings provide spiritual nourishment while fostering a sense of belonging among students. Bradley contributes by organizing and facilitating events that bring the community together. “I help with getting things ready,” Bradley said. “One way to get involved in ministries is by attending events around Bluefield University and being there for others.”

Bradley’s efforts ensure that students have ample opportunities to engage in fellowship to support one another, reinforcing the sense of community that Campus Ministries strives to build. Together, she and West strive to create a thriving campus ministry built on both structured spiritual guidance and spontaneous acts of community. Their combined approach -- encouraging daily chapel attendance and active participation in university events -- creates an environment where students are invited to explore and deepen their faith. By fostering connections and providing consistent opportunities for spiritual engagement, Campus Ministries at Bluefield University continues to nurture a community where faith and fellowship go hand in hand.

Graphic provided by Rampage student photographer Talan Poe.

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Podcasts and Video News Elle Gunter Question of the Week: If you could be any Bluefield University professor, who would it be and why?

Charles Howard Coach Lusk Reflects on 2024 Season

Caleb Honaker New Leadership, New Activities for SALT

Karyss Milby Dorm Room Decor 101

Bruce Chaney Who is the Person Behind the Ram Mascot?

Caleb Honaker Students Share Thoughts on Cafeteria Breakfast Hours

Karyss Milby BU Professors in the Wild

Bruce Chaney The Future of BU Athletics

Elle Gunter March Madness Analysis

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Sliding into Summer: Students Gear Up for 50th Annual Mud Pig Day by Elle Gunter | Communication • 2026

A s the weather warms up and students forward to before leaving campus: Mud Pig Day. For 50 years (with a pause in 2020 due to the COVID pandemic), the university has hosted this annual year-end event on the official last day of classes to celebrate the students and give them time to relax before final exams begin. The tradition began in the spring of 1974, and what started as an impromptu day off before finals became a cherished tradition. Corey Mullins, vice president of Student Development, shared some notes of history about the special day. “The students in 1974 just wanted to enjoy the last day and threw a hose down the hill as a prank,” he explained. “They had no idea it would evolve into the event we celebrate today.” While the origin of the “Mud Pig” name remains a mystery, Mullins recalled a story from 1981 when students hosted a contest to catch a greased pig in an enclosed area. The stunt made headlines in the local newspaper and caused quite a stir in the community, though “Capture the Pig” didn’t become a standing tradition. Still, it serves as a reminder for all the fond memories that generations of Bluefield students have made over the years. Sophomore Lucy Nicely reminisced about her first Mud Pig Day and the fun she had with her teammates. “During my first Mud Pig Day, the soccer team and I decided to go down the slide in pairs,” she said. “It was fun because we were flying all over the place while going down the slide. One of my teammates went down and smashed into one of the hay bales, and so did I. It was hilarious.” begin to make summer plans, there is one event that Bluefield University students look

Senior Jehari Riley, looking back on his past Mud Pig Days, is excited for his final one. “Being able to enjoy some fun activities outside of classes and be with my friends while eating a good meal is the best part,” he said. “I think [Mud Pig Day] is important to students because it allows them to relax and take their minds off things the week before finals and relieves them of some stress they may be having.” Students can look forward to inflatables, yard games, barbeque food -- including an entire roasted pig -- and of course the mud slide and mud pit. Mullins and the Student Activities Leadership Team (SALT) have been working tirelessly to ensure this milestone event is one for the books. Mullins shared a personal memory that makes the event special to him. “One of the first Mud Pig Days I was here, we had an inflatable where you climbed the ladder and slid down into a pit of water,” Mullins said. “My six year-old son, Levi, and I climbed up, but the guys behind us took off as soon as we got to the bottom. I looked up and saw two offensive linemen coming down the slide on top of me and my six-year-old. It is safe to say my life flashed before my eyes.” Mullins also spoke about the value of the university celebrating student achievements. “I think [Mud Pig Day] is something that connects students to the history of the university and something that celebrates the achievement of closing off another school year,” he said. This year’s Mud Pig Day will take place on Thursday, May 1 on the Dome Gymnasium lawn. Students, faculty, staff and community members are all invited to enjoy the festive atmosphere as they slide into summer.

Photos courtesy of Jehari Riley.

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Student Spotlight

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Student Profile: Elei Haynes by Rachel White | Communication and Business • 2027

N ative to the area who grew up following Bluefield University Theatre, Elei Haynes has taken on the challenge of being BU’s only current theatre major. Haynes began to do shows with BU Theatre during her first year of high school. This is one of the reasons why she chose to come to BU. “I’ve always felt a real sense of community here,” Haynes said. “I have always known everybody, and it has always felt like a place I belonged. It is a really welcoming place.” Haynes chose theatre as her major because it is something she has always been passionate about. She loves to perform and bring joy to others through that. Haynes has performed in many roles and many productions during her time at BU. From these roles, her favorite has been the Narrator in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat . This was her first lead as a college student, and she felt that she was able to bring a part of herself to the role. This was also a role that was entirely singing, which is one of Haynes’ favorite things. “I was playing a character, but I was also just

playing me,” Haynes said. Haynes’ other favorite role was Martha Watson in White Christmas , which was her second show as a college student. As the only theatre major at BU, Haynes must wear many hats to ensure that she puts her best foot forward for each show and performance. She is in all the shows, but it doesn’t end there. She oversees the props, helps paint and build the sets, and has assumed the position of music director for three performances, including the upcoming production of Finding Nemo, Jr. Haynes said that being a part of such a small Theatre Department means that everyone must be ready to help where help is needed. This is something that she has really enjoyed, because she feels that she is getting to do things and get experience that she would not get anywhere else. Even through all the chaos and work, Haynes is excited about everything she is learning and the hands-on experience she is getting. “The arts have not only turned from a hobby to a passion,” Haynes said, “but they have also made such a difference in my life.”

Photo provided by Rampage student photographer Caleb Honaker

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Student Spotlight

Students from Warmer Climates Share Thoughts on Winter in Bluefield by Gabriel Delvalle | Sports Communication • 2025

A lthough winter at Bluefield University is a season of beautiful scenery and cool temperatures, it is a completely different experience for students from warmer areas. For Dylan Cutler, a senior from Fort Myers, Florida, and Nick Guerra, a senior from Miami, Florida, who both have lived their entire lives in the sun, their first winter in the Appalachian Mountains has been enlightening. The two students discussed how they adjusted to the colder weather and how the winter climate differs from that in their hometowns. For starters, Cutler said he had never seen snow before coming to Bluefield. He remembers that first snowfall with clarity. “To get a grip of it, I immediately checked outside,” Cutler said. “I was shocked by how quiet everything became after snowfall. It’s clear and delightful. It felt strange to see snow for the first time. Like a snow globe that turned real, it appeared to be like from a movie.” The reality of snow, however, soon gave way to a respect for the challenges of a Bluefield winter. Cutler acknowledges that the cold was difficult, specifically getting used to constantly below freezing temps. “I’m still adjusting to the cold,” he said. “I’ve come to realize how important layering is. At home in Fort Myers, it’s always warm, even throughout the winter. During the coldest months, we’re talking about 70-80 degrees.” Cutler said he also takes pleasure in the outdoor winter activities that accompany the chilly weather and that he doesn’t get a chance to do at home. He said he views winter in Bluefield as a chance to try something new, even if he misses the warmth of Florida. “I’ve only ever seen skiing and snowboarding on TV, but now I can try them for myself,” Cutler said. “It’s different from what I’m used to, but it’s cool to be in a place with so many seasons.” Guerra has had similar experiences with winter at Bluefield. He said he has had to constantly adjust to the difference between the tropical warmth of his hometown and the cold of Bluefield.

“In Miami, winter means temperatures around 60 degrees at night and maybe a light sweater during the day,” Guerra said. “I definitely wasn’t prepared for temperatures below freezing. Sometimes the cold affects me. I miss Miami’s heat a lot when I’m trying to get to class in a snowfall or when I’ve been outside for too long, and my fingers aren’t feeling well.” Guerra also said he wasn’t prepared for snow storms. “I had never seen a snowstorm like this before,” he said. “It alters the atmosphere of daily existence. You have to be ready for slippery roads, and it takes longer to get anywhere.” But, despite the challenges, Guerra said he has adjusted to winter and come to appreciate its advantages. “Now, I realize how much pleasure it can be to spend my days in the snow, something I never would have thought possible,” Guerra said. “I’ve built snowmen, gone sledding, and even engaged in a snowball war with some of my roommates. I’ve discovered how to enjoy things I never would have imagined.” Both Cutler and Guerra agree that Bluefield University provides a chance to experience a true four-seasons climate, even though winter is a completely different experience than what they are used to in Florida. Regardless of the cold weather and abundant snowfall, the two students say that winter at Bluefield has turned into an exciting time for them as college students.

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Sports

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E-Sports at BU: Looking Ahead to Growth and Competition by Caleb Honaker | Digital Marketing, Modern Media • 2028

F irst introduced in 2019, the Bluefield University e-sports team has rapidly competing in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) under the Appalachian Athletic Conference and the Mid South Conference. But what exactly is e-sports? Short for electronic sports, e-sports is a form of competition using video games, which often takes the form of organized, multiplayer video game competitions played individually or as teams. E-sports has been a growing phenomenon over the past decade and is even gaining traction on a global scale. The sport is now a $1 billion industry and is making its way onto college campuses, providing new opportunities for students to participate in competition, even at BU. grown into a successful athletic program,

“Currently, we are working on getting a great group of individuals passionate about gaming and with a competitive drive to compete against other like-minded individuals,” said Madison Whisman, the coach for BU’s e-sports team. “As a high school e-sports coach before this, I witnessed how some students who never felt like they belonged in a traditional sports environment but had certain skills were able to hone those skills on an e-sports team. It gave them a place to belong and feel part of a team.” Whisman said he currently has a great foundation of students but hopes to add more players come fall. He said he is looking forward to getting the team and the season started in 2025-2026. •••

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 Sports

“I am actively recruiting via our website and other sources, along with our admissions team helping to support that mission, as well by providing information about the program to students at high schools and college fairs that we visit,” Whisman said. “I am looking to add at least five more students for the 2025-2026 season and truly begin to compete in a league against other colleges and universities.” To foster local engagement, the team is hosting a tournament for Tazewell County High School students to compete in BU’s e-sports facility on campus in the Science Center. In addition, an on-campus student tournament is planned to involve the campus community, showcase the program, and have fun. The benefits of expanding the team go beyond competition. Students can enjoy a welcoming and secure environment with access to powerful hardware to explore their passion. The program at BU also focuses on teamwork and communication while helping gamers gain the skills they need to succeed both inside and outside of the arena. “I think growing the team can be beneficial in many different ways,” Whisman said. “I hope to create more student engagement, provide students opportunities to compete in a sport that does not match traditional sports, and create another team for students to cheer on. As the

team grows and gets better, having a strong team can increase the reputation of our school as a whole. It helps show that BU has so much to offer for students of all kinds.” E-sports also provide academic and social benefits, such as teamwork, communication, and critical thinking — skills that are invaluable in the workforce. A growing team can also attract sponsors and additional school funding. Recently, the program secured a sponsorship from local business GigaBeam Networks for an upcoming tournament. But, competition requires preparation, dedication and strategy, all of which Whisman is providing to the team. “I want to make sure that my team is prepped for the team they are facing,” Whisman explained. “I accomplish this through pre-match preparation, where I scout opponents, study their strategies, and pass on strategies to my team to combat that. After the match, I analyze the results and footage, identifying areas of improvement and ensuring that we continue to grow as a team throughout the season.” With the program’s continuous efforts and planned expansions, BU’s e-sports team is set to make waves in the competitive gaming arena while fostering community and creating opportunities for students to excel.

Photo provided by Rampage student photographer Caleb Honaker.

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BU Sports Teams Raise Funds by Callie Dent | Digital Marketing • 2027

B luefield University sports teams are holding fundraisers and getting sponsorships to help provide the necessary resources to make their programs a success. Among the teams busy generating more money for its program: women’s basketball. Head coach Jake Wright spoke about his team’s efforts to fund raise. “We have done a couple of fundraisers, such as using a donation link on our Day of Giving, which helps bring in some money,” Wright said. “We have done a Free-throw-athon, where people sponsor players for every made free-throw made out of 100.” Wright also mentioned an upcoming fundraiser for women’s basketball. “We are about to start our calendar fundraiser,” Wright said, “which is a pick a date to donate, where you get someone to sponsor each day of the month, and the day is the amount you give.” Wright also spoke about why he thinks it is important for each team to plan and implement fundraising projects for their programs. “I think it’s very important for each team to fund raise on their own, because it allows them to be self-sufficient and to set goals for them to achieve, and they can purchase what they need and want throughout the year,” Wright said. “Being able to fund raise allows us to help our university when needed. That way money from the university can be used for other projects.”

Madison Whisman, who is the coach for BU e-sports, shared his insight on how his team is raising money for its program. “Currently, I am working with GigaBeam Networks for some sponsorships and possible fundraising,” Whisman said. “As a partner with Bluefield University, they are also paramount in helping students with online scholarships and tuition discounts for their customers who attend BU online.” Whisman also spoke about why he thinks it’s important for each team to fund raise on its own. “I think that it is important that teams or organizations raise funds for their programs,” Whisman said, “because it helps the program in numerous ways.” Another BU team fund raising is the women’s soccer team, who recently traveled to Ridgeway, Virginia, for a NASCAR race at Martinsville Speedway (as seen in the photos). There, the team raised funds by working concessions, serving as ushers, and helping with anything the track personnel needed them to do. “Fundraising can help with cost of keeping equipment and facilities up to date and top quality,” Whisman added. “It can help with travel expenses and competition fees and also with training and development to help advance the team’s skills. Fundraising can help sustain a program’s success over time, by allowing them to continue to upgrade and improve on the program and keep a competitive edge.”

Photos provided by Nathaly Granda Betancourt.