The Rampage Feb 2024

Bluefield University Student Newspaper | bu Rampage.com

ISSUE No. 18 | February 2024

Featured Stories

Jaxon Bast From Student to Employee

Question of the Week Students + AI 4

Addressing Financial Concerns

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Table of Contents

Contents Opinions 4 Question of the Week: Is AI OK to Use on Assignments? Stories 7 University Leaders Address Financial Concerns Payton Smith 8 On-Campus Party Results in Numerous Code of Conduct Violations Payton Smith University Creates New Online Tutoring Platform for Students Chloe Lester 10 What are Wednesdays in the SAC? Chloe Lester 11 Students Invited to Submit Works to Bluestone Review 12 BU Theatre Presents The Sound of Music Nathan LePere Students 15 Pai Creates Virtual Safe Space for Athletes Jaxon Bast 16 Senior Isaiah Rife Making BU a Better Place Payton Smith 17 Trent to Lead BU Worship Activities Nathan LePere 9

18 ACE Launches Awards Program to Recognize Student Leadership and Success Employee Features 21 Jaxon Bast: From BU Student to BU Employee Payton Smith 22 Longtime BU Professor Mickey Pellillo Returns to the Classroom Payton Smith

The Rampage Student Newspaper © Bluefield University. Magazine printed by Wordsprint. Design by Ben Ayers, Nathan LePere, and Jewels Gray. 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

“ Artificial intelligence (AI) tools, like ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and Google Gemini , are becoming common tools for students to use to complete assignments. Whether writing essays, summarizing books, or explaining difficult math problems, students can get explanations or answers to various questions or topics almost instantaneously. In fact, according to Inside Higher Education , nearly half of college students are using AI tools to complete assignments. BestColleges.com goes so far as to say that 56 percent of college students are using AI on assignments or exams. We thought we’d ask Bluefield University students about their AI use for college work. We asked BU students, “Do you use AI, and what are your thoughts about using it to complete assignments?” Question of the Week Is AI OK to Use on Assignments?

Yes, I use AI to help me with certain writing assignments. When using ChatGPT it doesn’t always do the assignment for you. It can help you get ideas on what to write or lead you in the right direction.

I do not use AI to complete my assignments, except for the grammar and spelling check, such as the one that is already installed on most devices.

Kerly Thelusme , Sports Communication

Rachel White , Theatre

I believe that AI could come in handy sometimes. For example, for one of my classes last semester I wasn’t sure on what to name one of my projects so I used AI to figure out a name. However, I would say that everything in excess is bad. Having AI do a whole assignment for you is extreme because then you wouldn’t be learning. Garrett Greenman , Business Management myself and do them myself. It is a good tool for people that struggle with some projects and things like that, but I believe that students should use their own thoughts rather than using an AI tool. Personally, I do not use AI to complete assignments because I need to learn things

I do not use AI, as I do not view any way of using it as not cheating. I have always been told that you need to use your thoughts even if it is coming up with ideas, which always seems to be the pro-argument for AI. I do know of several people who use it properly and improperly; however, I see all of it as cheating as mentioned before. I think there is a place for it in other areas, but not in the classroom and for the students to use. I think when given this power the students almost always will use it improperly and it is too hard to control the usage.

Shawn Johnson , History Education

Eledy Torres Jimenez , Digital Marketing

I don’t use AI. I know it’s not allowed to use it for assignments, and if you use it you won’t learn anything. If the assignment allows AI, I don’t see any problem with it, but usually don’t.

Arissa Anderson , Business Management I have used the AI effect on Snapchat on a few occasions. It is easy to quickly get an answer to a question. It is easy to ask little things that you need to answer a part of a question. However, I don’t feel as if it is ethical to use it to complete a whole assignment.

Malte Alm , Accounting

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Serving the Community Since 1993 The Community Foundation of the Virginias, Inc. is celebrating 30 years of assisting local non-profits in their mission to improve the region, and local graduating high school seniors and college students to continue their education. As the Foundation’s assets have grown over the years, it has become able to support organizations and students with more awards and larger awards. As the Foundation celebrates this milestone, we are asking the public to help the Foundation grow even more by contributing one dollar for each year of existence and support for the area in its “30 for 30” campaign. Larger or smaller donations will also be appreciated.

Please consider donating to support the Community Foundation of the Virginias, Inc. To give, visit cfvinc.org/charitable-giving.

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University Leaders Address Financial Concerns by Payton Smith | Communication • 2024 B luefield University students and employees may soon be dealing with budget, program, and personnel cuts “Let’s wait for the task force to complete its work before being concerned about majors or sports not being offered,” Dr. Salmeier said. “It does not help to be concerned about something that may or may not happen.”

again as BU leaders deal with a projected revenue shortfall for fiscal year 2023-2024. Just less than two years ago in April 2022 the university was managing a similar financial challenge as a result of multiple years of not reaching targeted goals in both undergraduate traditional and undergraduate online enrollment. The most recent financial issue developed as a result of an error in projected revenue related to the university’s scholarshipping model, according to Dr. Michael Salmeier, interim president and provost. Dr. Salmeier said BU detected the most recent financial issue in late November 2023 when financial managers discovered the university had less cash on hand than it had projected. Further analysis, he added, determined that corrections would need to be made in order to avoid a significant cash deficit by the end of the fiscal year, June 30, 2024 “The reality is that small colleges like ours live on very slim financial margins,” Dr. Salmeier said. “A miss on projected revenues can have a large impact, and there is not a lot of ‘fat’ in the budget that can be cut to offset a revenue miss.” To determine the corrections that need to be made, Dr. Salmeier said the administration and the BU Board of Trustees will be reassessing the university’s structures, programs, and expenses to ensure the institution is operating within its budget, not just this year, but for years to come. Toward that end, he said, the Board has established a task force to work with the administration over the next two months to complete this assessment and to develop a plan for restructuring. “It is too early to discuss what is being considered (in terms of budget cuts, program cuts, and personnel cuts),” Dr. Salmeier said. “We need to let the task force complete its work. The task force should complete its work by the beginning of March.” In the meantime, should students be concerned about academic majors being discontinued, student services being reduced, or sports programs being cut? Should employees be worried about operating budgets being trimmed or jobs being eliminated?

Dr. Salmeier added that should a major no longer be offered, the university would develop plans for the students in that major to be able to complete their degrees. He also said, “there is every reason to believe the university will be open in the fall.” “The administration, the task force, and the Board of Trustees are committed to that outcome,” he said. “Bluefield University is an institution that has created opportunities for generational transformation for over 100 years. We expect this to continue for a long time to come.” Isaiah Rife, Student Government Association (SGA) president and assistant resident director, said he found out about the university’s financial struggles initially through rumors that were later confirmed through an email sent to faculty and staff. “As of right now, there are many plans in the works to combat the financial struggles,” Rife said. “Administration is doing a terrific job planning and executing what needs to be done at the university, and there is light at the end of the tunnel for Bluefield.” Rife added that financial struggles like this are not unique to Bluefield and that he’s confident the university will overcome. “Financial struggles are something that every business, corporation, school, and human being will go through at some point in time,” Rife said. “Although the struggles are inevitable, I believe that we, as a university, have solid leadership that can handle the financial situation. The university has a strong, Biblical foundation that will withhold through any storm that may come, and we must keep faith in the Lord. Truly, I personally believe that the university is going to be okay, and Bluefield University will prosper for many years. Go Rams!”

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Stories

On-Campus Party Results in Numerous Code of Conduct Violations by Payton Smith | Communication • 2024 A party on campus in January at Bluestone Commons has created a stir amongst students this semester. Regarding the knowing/presence policy, the Handbook says that students who the safety of under-aged students, it is best to not have alcohol present on campus at all. Second, we firmly believe that every Bluefield University student can have a rich, fulfilling, fun, and

do not report a known violation may be held responsible for participation in the violation, such as being present in a residence hall room when alcohol is being consumed. “It is important to note that the party in question isn’t just about alcohol,” Johnson said. “Yes, we are a dry campus. However, a large gathering of students and individuals that aren’t students after visitation hours raises many concerns related to the safety and well-being of everyone involved.” The Student Handbook also states that students living on campus may not host a “disruptive party, gathering or event which disturbs or impacts the peace of another.” Gatherings that disturb the peace of others or that involve excessive noise are considered “disruptive,” and any host or student who participates in such an activity, the Handbook says, is subject to disciplinary action. If alcohol is involved in such disruptive parties, suspension or expulsion from the university may occur. Bluestone Commons resident Nathan LePere spoke about the disruption. “It was less hearing and more feelings,” LePere said in describing the noise of the party. “I couldn’t hear the music, but I could feel the bass shaking the whole building.” Johnson said he could not disclose how many students were present at the party and what security footage revealed to campus investigators. He also said he could not share the details related to incident reports filed by Campus Safety and the consequences students faced. Sharing those details, he added, would be a breach of privacy for the students involved. Additionally, Johnson said he understands that some students may have concerns about the strictness of the Code of Conduct. As it relates to alcohol, he said BU is a dry/alcohol-free campus for two primary reasons. “First, half of our student population is under the legal drinking age of 21,” Johnson said. “In order to best ensure

After an investigation by Campus Safety and BU Student Development into the gathering, Dean of Students Chris Johnson confirmed that a number of student conduct codes listed in the Student Handbook were violated during the party, including policies related to visitation, alcohol, hosting disruptive gatherings, and presence/knowing contribution. According to the Student Handbook, visitation (or open room hours) are Sunday through Thursday from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. In addition, visitors of the opposite sex must be signed in at all times and are not permitted in residence halls for any reason after visitation hours have ended. Failure to adhere to the visitation policy, the Handbook says, will result in loss of visitation privileges and potentially other sanctions deemed necessary by the university. Regarding alcohol, the Student Handbook states that possession, consumption, and/or distribution of alcoholic beverages are prohibited on campus. Underage drinking — both on and off campus — is also prohibited.

transformational university experience without the use of alcohol and other intoxicants.” Toward that end, Johnson encouraged students to consider John 10:10: “I (Jesus) came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” He said the university’s sincere hope is that students would experience that abundant life during their time at BU. “Pursuing alcohol or partying in order to feel welcomed by a group of peers or to numb away the pain we feel in life or cope with the stress of all of the demands we face on a daily basis isn’t a fulfilling life,” Johnson said. “If we’re honest with ourselves, those pursuits almost always leave us feeling emptier than when we started. Jesus wants to be the fulfillment of our deepest concerns, and He wishes to be the Lord of our lives so that we can live in the way in which we ought, the way in which we were designed.” Johnson said he also understands that some students would like to see certain rules changed. “My encouragement is for those students to get involved in student leadership,” Johnson said. “We have a Student Government Association for a reason. We need students to run for office. Student input is so valuable. I am currently working with our team to rewrite many segments of the Student Handbook. My hope is that students will engage in that process with us.” Lastly, Johnson said he would like to encourage students to reach out to the Office of Student Development with any concerns they may have. “My office door is open,” he said. “Our entire team desperately wants to meet with students and walk alongside them in their educational journey. The years a student spends at BU are meant to be some of the most transformative of their life, and we hope to have the privilege of joining them in that path.”

Photo illustration provided by Rampage student photographer Abby Gasperson.

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University Creates New Online Tutoring Platform for Students

by Chloe Lester | Modern Media • 2026 I n an era where digital resources play a crucial role in academic excellence, Bluefield University has introduced Brainfuse, a versatile platform offering a myriad of academic support services and tools tailored to enhance BU students’ learning experiences. From live tutoring to career assessments, Brainfuse is an invaluable companion for students seeking academic support. Harleigh Robinson, a counseling and wellness graduate assistant at BU, is completing Brainfuse training to better assist students. Throughout her training, Robinson has learned a lot. “One of Brainfuse’s standout features is its live tutoring service,” Robinson said, “covering a wide array of subjects, including business, computer and tech, English, math, nursing and allied health, science, and social sciences. This real time assistance allows students to receive help with homework, clarify doubts, and improve their understanding of various topics. The interactive nature of the live tutoring creates a dynamic learning environment, fostering engagement and comprehension.” The Writing Lab portal in the Brainfuse platfom is also a valuable tool for students grappling with writing assignments. By allowing students to upload their work, specify focus areas, and receive feedback within 24 hours, the Writing Lab facilitates a personalized approach to improving writing skills. The constructive feedback it provides aids in refining students’ writing abilities and elevating the overall quality of their academic work. Skill Surfer, another tool within Brainfuse, offers practice tests and exams in subjects like statistics, algebra, calculus, and college entrance exams. This feature helps students better prepare for exams and other assessments. For students seeking a structured approach to improvement, the LEAP portal offers personalized learning plans. The customized plans can include lessons, practice tests, and instructional videos. This tailored approach empowers students to address their specific weaknesses and build a solid foundation in challenging subjects.

Another Brainfuse tool is Flashbulb, which provides pre-made flashcards or allows students to create their own. Like Quizlet, this tool lets students share flashcards, fostering collaborative study sessions. By generating games and tests from flashcards, Flashbulb transforms studying into an interactive and engaging experience. eParachute is a Brainfuse tool that assists students in making informed decisions about their career. Utilizing Holland’s six personality types, this career assessment tool helps students align their strengths and preferences with potential career paths, aiding in a more confident selection of majors and career trajectories. MEET is a Brainwave tool that provides collaborative whiteboard functionalities, facilitating group study sessions and collaborative work. These tools empower students to engage in real-time discussions, share ideas, and collectively tackle academic challenges. “Brainfuse contributes to students’ academic success by providing them a platform with many tools readily available, such as practice tests, learning plans, and the ability to make flashcards, as well as the ability to meet and work collaboratively for studying or group projects,” Robinson said. “The primary way that Brainfuse contributes to the academic success of students is through its free live tutoring, where students can get help on homework or determine how to improve by reviewing an old quiz, as well as the writing lab, which can increase students’ understanding and writing skills by receiving feedback and suggestions from tutors.” The Brainfuse Tutoring services can be accessed by students and faculty inside the Canvas platform. Once inside a course in Canvas, the Brainfuse Online Tutoring link can be found in the course’s left-hand menu. For those seeking a deeper understanding of Brainfuse, comprehensive videos have been created to guide students and faculty through the platform’s features and functionalities.

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Stories

by Chloe Lester | Modern Media • 2026 What are Wednesdays in the SAC? T he range of activities available to students is diverse at Bluefield University, ensuring there’s something for everyone. From music concerts

and theater to sports and fitness, from arts and crafts and painting to board games and croquet, Bluefield University strives to give students the best experience they can have on campus. One particular way Student Development provides entertaining activities is through Wednesdays in the SAC. The mastermind behind these events is BU’s Katherine “Katie” McDaniel, coordinator of student care. “My reasoning behind events like these is to give students a chance to come to an event during the day that does not revolve around anything other than student involvement,” McDaniel said. “With many ministry events, wellness activities, and student engagement programs happening throughout the week, the mid-week events are a dedicated space for students to connect and have fun.” McDaniel emphasized that the true benefits of these events lies in the intangible aspects, such as student morale and connections. “I would like to think I do not do these events for my own accord and that I put on events for the student morale and student involvement,” McDaniel explained. “While tangible benefits are limited to winning prizes, such as cleaning supplies or Bluetooth speakers, the real value comes from the interactions and connections formed during these gatherings.” Future activities will include Bingo and trivia games that offer intellectually stimulating challenges and a chance to win exciting prizes. As warmer weather approaches, Wednesdays in the SAC will soon become Wednesdays in the Quad where students can enjoy outdoor lawn games, providing a refreshing break from the daily academic routine.

The drop-by nature of the events, McDaniel said, allows students to participate between classes or simply hang out with friends on a Wednesday afternoon. It creates a relaxed atmosphere where students can recharge, de-stress, and forge connections with their peers. As students continue to navigate the challenges of academic life, McDaniel said events like Wednesdays in the SAC will play a crucial role in enhancing the overall student experience. The emphasis on fostering connections and boosting morale contributes to a more vibrant and connected campus culture, creating lasting memories for students during their academic journey. “I strive to make every student — whether it is their first year on campus or their last, whether they are a residential student or commuter, whether they are heavily involved on campus or just now thinking of joining a club — feel free to make this campus feel like home,” McDaniel said. “I returned as an alumna because despite some of the struggles that our campus endures it has always felt like home to me. I want every student to feel proud to go here and want to be involved on campus and with campus activities.” Students are encouraged to take advantage of the student involvement and sense of community offered through Wednesdays in the SAC or Quad. The events take place every Wednesday after chapel from noon to 2 p.m. These mid-week events offer students a chance to unwind and connect with their peers.

Photo provided by Rampage student photographer Chloe Lester.

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Students Invited to Submit Works to Bluestone Review A re you a writer? Photographer? Artist? Graphic designer? Want to see your creative work published? Then submit your work to

“Submitting to the Bluestone Review allows you to share your published work with your peers and network with other talented writers, poets, and artists in our community,” said student co-editor Jonathan Collier. “Prose, poetry, art, and photography are all great ways to express yourself, and The Bluestone is a collection of works that capture moments and snapshots of the Appalachian experience.” Joining Collier and Horton on the Bluestone staff are student graphic designers Nathan LePere and Jenny Mitchell. The students are being advised by former English professor and Bluestone Review founder Dr. Rob Merritt and current English professor Dr. Irene Rieger. This year’s Bluestone Review will be published in a digital format and unveiled to the public during a reception in April during which time contributors will be recognized and provided the opportunity to read or present their work. Submissions are due by March 15 and may be submitted online, by email at bluestone@ bluefield.edu , or by postal mail at The Bluestone Review , Bluefield University, 3000 College Avenue, Bluefield, VA 24605.

Bluefield University’s Bluestone Review . The Bluestone Review is the literary journal created and published annually by BU students. Members of the BU editorial staff are accepting submissions from students and the community at-large for the 2024 edition. Submissions may include poems, short stories, creative non-fiction, fiction, song lyrics, photographs, paintings, and drawings. “The Bluestone Review is a celebration of local color and individual craft in the form of poetry, non-fiction, fiction, music, photography, and visual art,” said Review student co-editor Sydney Horton. “Students should put themselves out there by submitting to the Bluestone Review because they should receive recognition for the talent they have.” Submissions for the 2024 edition are being accepted now and can be submitted on the BU website at bluefield.edu/news-events/ publications . No more than five submissions will be accepted from one contributor. Prose submissions must be no more than 750 words. When submitting, please include your name, address, contact information, and one biographical sentence.

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by Nathan LePere | Graphic Communication • 2024 BU Theatre Presents The Sound of Music

Photos provided by Rampage student photographer Nathan LePere.

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Pai Creates Virtual Safe Space for Athletes by Jaxon Bast | Sports Communication • 2024

M ental health is an increasing worldwide. Suicide rates are climbing, and overall mental health issues are on the rise. But, a large group of people often overlooked in the mental health discussion are athletes, since there is a stigma associated with athletes who are supposed to be mentally strong. Ajay Pai, a Bluefield University freshman wrestler from Richmond, Virginia, is doing his part to address this issue. “Athletes always have something going for them. [Something] always drives them,” Pai explained. His project is known as the Piratic Crew, a project dedicated to creating a virtual safe space for both athletes and others generally struggling with their mental health or any issues. concern these days as more and more people are being affected

“My goal is to reach out to people that are struggling with similar issues, whether it’s depression, anxiety, suicide, or whatever negative outside forces they are dealing with to be able to show them that they’re wanted, they’re cared for, and they’re loved,” Pai said. “That hopefully will help them reach out and get the help they need.” Pai came up with the idea for the Piratic Crew as a result of his own suicide attempts. “I used to make a lot of mistakes in my life, and when I finally was self-aware of that I tried fixing it,” Pai said, “and when it didn’t go to plan, it got even worse. I’m finally getting the help I need.” Pai said most of the mental stress athletes face comes from an expectation to perform at a high level. “Athletes are so driven by it to the point of perfection,” Pai said, “and when they don’t perform to the best of their own capability or to the best that they thought they should have or could have, it gets to them.” Pai said it’s not healthy for athletes to define who they are based off a performance based mentality. Big Think is a multimedia web portal presenting interviews and round table discussions with experts from various fields who share the same view. They say a “performance-based identity” is when we define ourselves by how well we do something relative to others. Three factors define a performance-based identity: contingent self-worth, a looming fear of failure, and perfectionism. A performance-based model can work, but it’s not sustainable and can negatively impact well-being, relationships, and one’s own potential. The Piratic Crew strives to correct that mentality in student-athletes by posting weekly interviews of people sharing their opinions on the project and the experiences they struggle with in their mental health journey. “I think it’s a great project,” said Quantavis McKinney, a member of the men’s basketball team, “especially for people who may be quiet about it.” You can find all the interviews and related content at @Piratic_Crew on Instagram.

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Senior Isaiah Rife Making BU a Better Place

by Payton Smith | Communication • 2024

Bluefield University senior Isaiah Rife has had a big impact on the campus community throughout his four years at BU. Rife is a Tazewell, Virginia, native who graduated from Tazewell High School in 2020. He now lives in Bluefield and “loves the environment, people, and opportunities” here. He is majoring in nursing with a minor in biology, and he’s also a part of the Honors Program. In addition, he is a member of the Alpha Chi National Honor Society and will graduate from BU this May. Outside of the classroom, Rife participates in many clubs and has helped university campus life become what it is today. He serves as president of the Student Government Association, a member of BU Student Ministries, an assistant resident director for Cruise Hall, a leader of the Missions Club, a tutor, and a work-study in the Business Office. A former member of the Rams football, cross-country, and track and field teams, Rife said his participation in campus life has helped shaped him into who he is today. “Each one of these roles has had a tremendous (impact) on the shaping of my personality and leadership capabilities,” Rife said, “and they have prepared me to enter the workforce with a strong background in leadership.” Rife said that being this involved on campus has challenged him to improve his time management and to be mindful of making time for himself. “From time to time, I tended to overbook myself with multiple events at the same time,” he said. “I am an ecstatic person and I love to say yes to everything, but that does not always work. As a leader, I have had to learn how to build a schedule that allows me to be productive, have time for my family and friends, and time to rest.”

Rife has been recognized for his leadership and service with many awards, including the Ram EFFORT Award, several local scholarships, Student of the Week, and the Ram Presidential Cup Award on two occasions. However, he said the most important award he has received at BU is his devotion to Christ and the life God has given him. “A relationship with Christ is what has given me fulfillment and has awarded me a life with him,” Rife said. Campus Pastor Mason West, a long-time friend of Rife’s, said he has enjoyed watching Rife grow in a variety of ways. “I’ve watched Isaiah grow so much as not only a man, but a man of God,” West said. “He’s taken his spiritual journey more serious than anything in his time here at Bluefield, and he’s grown to be one of the most passionate and consistent that I know. I’ve watched him grow in his knowledge of the character of God and the truth of his word. I’ve watched him step out to share convicting and powerful messages while also leading guys in Bible study with authentic discipleship. He’s grown in many ways as a servant leader.” West added that Rife has been a big supporter of his ministry with students on campus. He said that when he became the BU campus pastor that Rife was one of the first people to show his support and to help advance campus ministries. “I’ve watched Isaiah love people — from peers in the classroom to ministry volunteers to people he encounters in completing his clinical hours,” West said. “It’s been amazing to watch that unfold and his character match that of Jesus.” After graduation, Rife plans to get married to his fiancé, Abigail McComas, who is also a BU student who serves in youth ministry and at local hospitals. He also hopes to begin working as a nurse. “As a nurse, I want to work in an intensive care unit,” Rife said, “gain as much knowledge as I can, and hopefully one day continue my education in graduate school.” West said he expects great things from Rife after college. He also said he plans on continuing to be one of his biggest supporters. “I expect to see Isaiah setting out to pursue and accomplish whatever God puts on his heart,” West said. “He is passionate about health and truth. I believe he will help people in more than one way — not just in his vocation, but his calling to serve the church and God’s children. I pray to be one of the biggest cheerleaders in his corner in every season of his life. His heart and pursuit of God has marked me in many ways. God only knows how much I love him and believe in him.”

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by Nathan LePere | Graphic Communication • 2024 Trent to Lead BU Worship Activities

B luefield University Student Ministries (BUSM) has a new worship leader. Sophomore Grace Trent has taken on the responsibility of planning and leading the Worship Team and all BU worship activities. Since coming to BU in the fall of 2022, Trent has been actively involved in BUSM, including serving as a singer for the BU Worship Team for chapel and Home services. Now, she said she’s excited about the opportunity to lead all BU worship activities. “I am grateful I am in a position to teach others about the love of God and what true, pure worship is,” Trent said. “I am thankful for the people, such as Mason West and Ana Barros, who saw potential in little old me and thought I would be a good fit for this role.” As part of her new role, Trent leads rehearsals, arranges worship sets, and organizes teams for weekly Home worship services. She’s also involved in BUSM meetings and the planning of all other worship services and activities. In addition, as worship leader, she oversees all prayer gatherings on campus. “I was able to set up and pray over two prayer rooms in (the Dan MacMillan Center) for students to utilize throughout the week,” Trent said. “There will also be weekly prayer gatherings where students can pray over campus, faculty, and other students.” While grateful for the opportunity to lead BU worship, Trent admits she was a bit overwhelmed by the responsibility. “When I first came into this new role, I was very nervous about doing enough or being the best at what I do,” Trent said. “I have come to learn that if I rely on my own strength, knowledge, or what I can do, I am not giving God the credit He is due. I must rely on the Lord to act in humility and humble myself each day, even outside of my role.” Trent added that she would not be able to oversee prayer on campus or lead any worship activity without the strength and peace of Christ. “I am forever blessed and thankful for the impact Student Ministries at Bluefield University has had on my life,” she said, “and I can only hope to be a good steward of Christ Jesus and the Gospel on this campus.”

Photos provided by Rampage student photographer Nathan LePere.

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Students

ACE Launches Awards Program to Recognize Student Leadership and Success B luefield University students are being recognized for leadership, character, academic excellence, and other quality characteristics, thanks to a new Ram Student of the Week awards program sponsored by the Academic and Career Excellence (ACE) Center. and Athletic Trainer Stephen Baldwin, who designed a Workout Warrior of the Week honor for student-athletes.

As part of the Ram Student of the Week initiative, each week during the school year, a BU student will be recognized based on his or her contributions to the campus community. Recipients will be students who demonstrate excellence in the classroom, leadership, citizenship, community involvement, and character, among other excellent characteristics. “Students that are deserving of this recognition (are) those that demonstrate kindness, compassion, determination, servant leadership, motivation, progress towards growth, overcoming adversity, and those who go above and beyond to be a helping hand,” Robinson said. Students will be nominated for the weekly award by members of the BU faculty and staff. Nominations are submitted online and reviewed by the Academic and Career Excellence (ACE) staff. Winners will receive a certificate and public acknowledgment of the good work they are doing. “I would suggest faculty, staff, and coaches save this link as a pin in their emails for easy access to nominate their students that they feel are deserving of this recognition for their exceptional work,” Robinson added.

According to Emily Cook, director of counseling, wellness and student success, and Harleigh Robinson, a graduate assistant for the BU Wellness program, the Ram Student of the Week initiative was designed to recognize students who demonstrate academic success, servant leadership, character, motivation, kindness, adversity, and growth. Robinson said the ACE team wanted a program that would acknowledge and honor students for all the good work they’re doing on and off campus. “(We) wanted to focus on lifting up and supporting our students,” Robinson said. “We have seen and heard so many amazing things that our students are doing and wanted to have a way to shine a light on their accomplishments both in and out of the classroom.” In addition to the desire to celebrate and honor the “amazing students at Bluefield University,” Robinson said the ACE team was inspired to create the Ram Student of the Week program by Professor Kevin Downer, who created a similar Student of the Week initiative for students in the Sports Management program,

Student of the Week for January 24 Andrew LaPan

Student of the Week for January 31 Isaiah Rife

“Andrew is always there for anyone to help. Whether a last-second tour to a prospective student, hosting a recruit for the weekend when no one else will do it, or moving furniture on campus for a professor or staff, he is always there to help. He has never said no when we need help. Andrew exemplifies true servant leadership; he lives it every day.”

“Isaiah is seemingly everywhere, taking care of everything as SGA president, student worker, volunteer with BU Student Ministries, member of the Missions Club, and more. Above all, he has a servant’s heart. He is so good at appreciating life, pushing forward to bigger and better things, and encouraging others to do the same.”

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Proud to sponsor The Rampage ’s print magazine.

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Student of the Week for February 7 Joslyn Evans

Student of the Week for February 14 Sam Bowman Sam is a BU online student and the school resource officer at Graham High School. His quick thinking, training, and professionalism helped save a student’s life during a recent crisis. We are very proud of him and his hard work.

“If there were a Bluefield University ‘Student Worker Hall of Fame,’ without a doubt, Joslyn Evans would be a recipient. Conscientious, dependable, hard working, pleasant – these are only four qualities that describe her work ethic.”

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Employee Features

The Rampage

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buRampage.com

Jaxon Bast: From BU Student to BU Employee by Payton Smith | Communication • 2024

J axon Bast is a December 2023 Bluefield University graduate who earned a bachelor’s degree in Sports Communication and who wasted no time landing his first job after college… at his alma mater, BU. Bast spoke about his journey from being a BU student to becoming a BU employee. He said he was hoping to find a job opportunity in the area, so before graduating he asked BU’s Karl Hatton, vice president for admissions and student development, if there were any job openings in the Admissions Office. “He told me that he would look into it and let me know,” Bast said. “I was actually at the cafeteria during the last week of school when I bumped into him, and he told me there was one (a job opening). I was running a little behind schedule on my last day here before I was going home, and they called me to set up an interview and within the hour, I had my interview.” And soon after the interview, Bast had his job offer. He said he wanted to stay in Bluefield because he fell in love with the community while here as a student. “I really love the community that (exists) in a small place like Bluefield,” Bast said. “As a starry-eyed big boy from Birmingham, Alabama, I felt very welcomed as soon as I stepped on campus.” Bast completed his Sports Communication studies early in just three and a half years. He said the Communication Arts program prepared him well for his professional life. A former member of the Rams wrestling team, he also spoke about how his advocating for that program will serve him well in Admissions. “The biggest thing that translated over (to his new work) was helping the wrestling program with recruiting over the years,” Bast said. “I had a passion to see that program succeed. I want to see the university flourish, and that is where a lot of my drive comes from.” Bast spoke about other influences, including Bailey Angle, former BU sports

broadcaster and assistant sports information director, who taught Bast during his freshman year how to do broadcast play-by-play. “Bailey Angle was a mentor who had finished his undergrad a few years prior and knew the landscape,” Bast said. “He taught me play-by-play for every sport and how to tell the story as to engage the viewer.” Bast said he was blessed during his sophomore year to watch a “master craftsman” at work in the field of videography by working under BU’s Rodney Kasey. “After I had shoulder surgery (from a wrestling injury), I was not in a good headspace, and a very ‘woe is me’ kind of person,” Bast said. “Rodney saw my potential and showed me some tough love. He was hard on my work and on me, but he did exactly what I needed him to do. He got me out of that funk and led me to see another avenue within the same passion in working in sports media.” Bast added wrestling coach Jason Waelti, sports information director Bob Redd, and professors Allen Roberts, Chris Shoemaker and Kevin Downer to the list of BU employees who helped prepare him for life after college. “All these men did a huge service in caring about me,” Bast said. “Bluefield University employees are some of the best people on the face of the earth. I tell everyone I come into contact with about Bluefield. I have yet to meet a soul on this campus who has their own self-interest above the people they serve.” Now, as an admissions counselor recruiting prospective students to BU, Bast wants to have that same kind of influence. He’s thankful for what Bluefield gave him, and he hopes to give back as a BU admissions counselor. “Bluefield gave me opportunities that I would not have gotten anywhere else,” Bast said. “God was at every turn.”

Photo provided by Rampage student photographer Abby Gasperson.

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Employee Features

by Payton Smith | Communication • 2024 Longtime BU Professor Mickey Pellillo Returns to the Classroom S tudents taking English courses at Bluefield University are enjoying the benefits of being taught by a seasoned veteran of the classroom, thanks to the return of longtime BU professor Mickey Pellillo, who has stepped out of retirement to teach again.

Bluefield. A breast cancer survivor, she has also served as a fitness and swim instructor and loves to run marathons. In addition, Pellillo volunteers at the Wade Center in Bluefield where she is a therapy dog handler for her therapy dog Gabi. She has also served as chair of the Bluefield Recreational Trails Committee and a volunteer for the Bluefield Beautification Committee. “(Professor) Pellillo was a big influence in my Communication/English Department classes,” said 2006 BU alumna Jaimie Hobbs Lomasney. “(She) had a very big impression on me, and I enjoyed what I got and learned from (her).” Pellillo returned to the BU classroom from 2015 to 2017 as an adjunct instructor of English. She’s back again this year bringing nearly three decades of teaching experience to BU students. “Honestly, I had never really thought about returning to teaching until Dr. (Tracey) Stout (dean of the College of Arts and Letters) sent me an email last semester,” Pellillo said. “He said they were looking for someone to teach a few classes and that Wendy Beavers had suggested he talk with me. I have known Wendy since she was a student at Bluefield College. When she began teaching, we worked directly together for several years and became friends. And I have known Tracey for several years, so I agreed to come to the school and talk with him about the opportunity to help out.” Pellillo said the thought of coming back made her excited about the opportunity to meet new people and to reconnect with others she had worked with in the past. “Also, I am not a fan of winter,” she said, “and I looked forward to having a regular project to do as it turned cold and grey.” Since Teams, Canvas and other new teaching tools were not in use the last time Pellillo taught, she said she’s had to spend some time getting used to new classroom technology. “Learning Canvas has been quite a challenge for me,” she said. “I feel I have a pretty good handle on most of its aspects now – with a lot of support from Professor (Crystal) Kieloch. And the struggles with it have actually helped me support a couple of students in my online class who have had problems with technology.” Pellillo is teaching two sections of Introduction to the Writing Process (ENG 1013) this spring — one in person and one online. Beyond that, she said she is just planning to do the best she can in the classroom and online for this semester, and she’s not sure what else the future holds.

Pellillo, a graduate of West Virginia University with a bachelor’s degree and Virginia Tech with a master’s degree, began teaching at Bluefield first in the fall of 1986. She served BU as an assistant professor of English and director of the Writing Center for 25 years before retiring in 2011. During her time at BU, Pellillo taught traditional English courses as well as a handful of unique English classes. In fact, an avid hiker who has hiked the entire 2,175 miles of the Appalachian Trail, Pellillo co-developed and taught a nationally recognized innovative online inter-disciplinary course in English, art, science and outdoor recreation related to the Appalachian Trail. “I couldn’t get any more innovative than an online hiking course,” Pellillo said in a 2004 interview with the Denver Post . Stories about the class were also published in the Washington Times , Mattoon (IL) Journal Gazette , and Wenatchee World . As part of her teaching, she also presented writing workshops at conferences and seminars across the region. Outside of the classroom, she was active in a variety of service projects, including a medical mission with a group of BU students in Belize in Central America in 2009. In 2013 after retiring from BU, she joined the Boy Scouts of America in a service project designed to improve the local trail system and city park facilities in

Photo provided by Rampage student photographer Nathan LePere.

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Student Management Team

Abby Gasperson Photographer, Marketing Manager

Nathan LePere Graphic Designer, Photographer, Editor

Jewels Gray Graphic Designer, Marketing Manager

Chloe Lester Writer, Photographer

J.G. Keene Social Media Manager, Marketing Manager

Payton Smith Writer, Web Manager, Editor