Student Spotlight: James O'Loughlin

Chris Richardson

Reporter

At 72 years young, James O’Loughlin has developed quite the resume. After spending decades in the military, O’Loughlin began his studies at The W in 2010. He was awarded Bachelor of Arts degrees in 2011 and 2013, but he decided to continue his education and pursue a Master of Fine Arts degree in Creative Writing. When he’s not in class, O’Loughlin can often be found in the school’s cafeteria or gym, and when he learned about The Spectator, he sent a request to be interviewed for our Student Spotlight series, so that he could share his story with students all across the campus. 

Q: Where are you originally from? 

Students get active with intramural sports championship

Dylan Scott

Reporter

The W’s intramural sports department held a flag football championship and tailgate on Oct. 15, giving students the chance to connect in an active environment.

The flag football season had been going on for roughly three weeks before the championship. The campus radio station, WMUW 88.5FM, was aired over a loudspeaker with music for the students. Social clubs sold food at the tailgate party.  

Students give vaccine presentation at Pohl

Chris Richardson

Reporter

A vaccine presentation was held in Room 206 of Pohl from 9-10 a.m. on Oct. 16.

The purpose of the presentation was to inform students about getting vaccinated and the purpose of certain vaccines. Matthew Reeves, a graduate assistant in health and kinesiology, and Cole Phillips, an undergraduate intern with the public health education department, gave the presentation.

Research project leaves lasting impact on students

Jessica Barnett

Online Editor

This is the second part of a story about integration at the W. The first part chronicled how a small group of students are working with Dr. Erin Kempker, an associate professor of history, to learn more about the six women who originally integrated MUW. The first part was published in The Spectator on Oct. 23, 2015, and can be read here. Additional photos can be found here.

Kempker and Arrington echoed the sentiments, calling it intense and admiring the influx of positive reactions from the audience. All four looked forward to the second run of the production, which is currently scheduled for next spring. Vaughn said that she expected it to be bigger, better and even more powerful.

Student Spotlight: Kelly Idella Benford

Frederick L. Brown

Reporter

Kelly Idella Benford, a sophomore communication major and theatre minor, is from Greenville, Miss. Benford is a 2014 graduate of Greenville Weston High School. Benford is a very talented dancer and serves as the vice-president of the Audacity Dance Team on campus. Benford is also dealing with a rare skin disorder called "ichythyosis."

Ichthyosis is a family of genetic skin disorders characterized by dry, scaling skin that may be thickened or very thin. Ichthyosis affects people of all ages, races and gender, and there is currently no cure for the disorder. While a cure is being sought, researchers and physicians have been working to develop effective ways to help manage the disorder. For more information, visit www.firstskinfoundation.org.