THE SOUTHERNThe Student Voice of Florida Southern College since 1918

73 F

Lakeland

Saturday, May 24, 2025

News
- Athletics Campus Campus Safety Coronavirus Coronavirus
  
  Students receive Sheriff’s Commendation for saving Lakeland man’s life
  
  April 28, 2025
  
  On April 8, 2024, junior Alex McManus and sophomore Brian von Suskil planned on driving to Starbucks early in the morning to grab breakfast while they applied for classes. Thinking the coffee house would be crowded, they decided to go to McDonalds instead. This change would alter 71-year-old Terry Dennis’ life forever. “Two older guys that came in, which ended up being Terry and then his friend Fred,” McManus said. “They had sat behind us and I didn’t think anything of it. And then I just, like, my back faced them and I heard something smack the ground. I turned around and then Terry had fallen out like, coffee everywhere, he just fell out of his chair. He was lying on the ground.”
  
  Senior named National DSP Collegian of the Year
  
  April 28, 2025
  
  Gracianna Campbell, a senior accounting major from Tampa, didn’t set out to win awards when she joined Delta Sigma Pi (DSP) — she just wanted to find a community. Now, as she prepares to graduate, she’s leaving with not just that, but also the highest honor a collegiate member of DSP can receive: National Collegian of the Year (COY).
  
  How will Trump’s tariffs impact the economy?
  
  April 28, 2025
  
  On Wednesday, April 2, newly named as ‘Liberation Day,’ President Trump made a historic executive order calling for a minimum 10% tariff on all goods imported to the United States, in response to what he claimed as a national economic emergency. Along with this, other countries that have large trade deficits with the U.S. will receive even higher tariffs.
  
  SGA transitions leadership with 2025–26 executive board
  
  April 21, 2025
  
  FSC’s Student Government Association (SGA) has announced its executive board for the 2025-26 academic year. Lexi Lapore-Paternostro has been elected student body president; Ben Ruby executive vice president; Michael Desrosiers administrative vice president. Garrett Hultman vice president of finance; and Katrina Machado vice president of communications.
  
  Dr. Martin reflects on his first year at FSC
  
  April 21, 2025
  
  Dr. Jeremy Martin is coming to the conclusion of his first academic year of presidency at FSC. When Dr. Martin first became president at FSC, he made no immediate goals of change. Rather, Martin proactively made it his first step to know and understand the FSC community more deeply and profoundly. With a two major hurricanes hitting Central Florida within just a few weeks of his start, Martin faced a challenge.
Features
- Alumni Alumnus Faculty Lakeland MSC
  
  Prof. Mike Nabors’ guide to pivoting in life & career
  
  April 28, 2025
  
  Professor Mike Nabors teaches at FSC about the world of sports media, an industry he’s been a part of for more than 30 years. Recently, he’s released his second book, entitled “Don’t Quit Pivot,” which aims to drive others to chase their dreams and pursue their passions. In the book, Nabors writes, “The goal [of this book] is to pass on the idea that the ability to move from one career to something better for you is attainable for everyone.”
  
  New Real Estate Society opens a gateway to industry networking
  
  April 28, 2025
  
  Interested in the real estate world? Students now have the perfect opportunity, thanks to a brand new student organization: the Real Estate Society, founded by sophomore Claudia Kaczmarczyk. Kaczmarczyk, a finance major from Chicago, started the society just a few weeks ago with the goal of giving students more exposure to the real estate industry, something she’s been involved in for the past two years.
  
  Students receive Sheriff’s Commendation for saving Lakeland man’s life
  
  April 28, 2025
  
  On April 8, 2024, junior Alex McManus and sophomore Brian von Suskil planned on driving to Starbucks early in the morning to grab breakfast while they applied for classes. Thinking the coffee house would be crowded, they decided to go to McDonalds instead. This change would alter 71-year-old Terry Dennis’ life forever. “Two older guys that came in, which ended up being Terry and then his friend Fred,” McManus said. “They had sat behind us and I didn’t think anything of it. And then I just, like, my back faced them and I heard something smack the ground. I turned around and then Terry had fallen out like, coffee everywhere, he just fell out of his chair. He was lying on the ground.”
  
  Senior named National DSP Collegian of the Year
  
  April 28, 2025
  
  Gracianna Campbell, a senior accounting major from Tampa, didn’t set out to win awards when she joined Delta Sigma Pi (DSP) — she just wanted to find a community. Now, as she prepares to graduate, she’s leaving with not just that, but also the highest honor a collegiate member of DSP can receive: National Collegian of the Year (COY).
  
  Dance Marathon: Recap & future improvements
  
  April 2, 2025
  
  Dance Marathons have happened all across the country. At FSC, the event first came to campus spring of 2023 as an initiative to raise money for children with cancer, especially supporting the Children’s Miracle Network at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg. Executive Director of this initiative Chloe Lanham has helped bring Dance Marathon back to campus after a short hiatus last year.
Southern View
- Columns Editorial Letter to the Editor Politics Southern View
  
  Bye-bye Bryant: The editor-in-chief’s goodbye
  
  April 22, 2025
  
  A typical senior goodbye from an editor of The Southern usually involves them saying how they never expected to write until they stepped foot on campus, took a communications class, or read a copy of the paper. This is not that type of goodbye.
  
  ‘Miraculous’ change in animation represents a change in quality
  
  April 1, 2025
  
  Over the duration of the show “Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug and Cat Noir” ten years on air, it has remained consistent with its animation style for the first five seasons. When the show was initially conceptualized, it was intended to feature a 2D anime style. The creators opted for a 3D CGI animation, instead, which has contributed significantly to its broad appeal. I think this was the correct choice because if it had followed a more cutesy aesthetic, I’m not sure the show would have garnered as much attention or captivated audiences in the same way.
  
  Absurd luxury items that are worth a laugh, not your money
  
  April 1, 2025
  
  On March 11, Silver Cross announced a partnership with Lamborghini to create a “super” stroller, tagging it at a staggering price tag of $5,500. The four wheeled speed demon will include a high glass polycarbonate basket, a sprung magnetic harness, full suspension wheels and, of course, the Lamborghini logo. A lot of questions come to mind, yet one I think everyone shares is: Why? Who asked for this? Who is the target audience here? It seems that more and more often, new wacky gadgets with an unnecessarily high price tag are released to a consumer base that is nonexistent.
  
  Late start to 2025-26 academic year may impact student plans
  
  April 1, 2025
  
  As the academic landscape continuously evolves, I find myself grappling with a blend of anticipation and anxiety regarding the recent release of the Fall 2025 and Spring 2026 academic calendars. The decision to push back the start of classes by a week has left me questioning the motivations behind this change. While it may be an effort to synchronize Florida Southern with other colleges across the country, this shift feels like a mixed blessing for a family like mine that has multiple kids attending different college at the same time.
  
  Nepotism in Hollywood: The good, the bad & the privileged
  
  April 1, 2025
  
  Nepotism has long been a staple of the entertainment industry, with many celebrities having parents who paved the way for their success. For those unaware, nepotism is defined as the practice among those with the power or influence of favoring relatives, friends, or associates, especially by giving them jobs. While some “nepo babies” might use their privileged status to work hard and build a career based on their own merits, others will ride the coattails of their famous last names without putting in the effort anybody else would have to do. The difference between a “good” and “bad nepo baby” often comes down to their work ethic, humility and the values instilled by their parents.
Sports
- Baseball Basketball Cross Country eSports Golf
  
  Men’s golf captures first SSC title since 2010
  
  April 18, 2025
  
  On Tuesday, April 15, the No. 11 men’s golf team secured the Sunshine State Conference (SSC) Championship title, while the women’s golf team placed fifth. This is the men’s first SSC title in 15 years and 17th overall.
  
  Baseball obliterates school stolen base record, beats Tampa
  
  April 18, 2025
  
  The record books are poised to add this 2024-2025 team to school immortality as the Mocs have already broken the school record for stolen bases in 38 games with 171.
  
  Grand slam glory: McIlroy conquers Augusta
  
  April 18, 2025
  
  After 11 years of anticipation since his first major win at the 2011 U.S. Open, and a career marked by brilliance, determination, and strength across 17 Masters starts since his debut in 2009, Rory McIlroy finally joined that elite group and achieved his long-held dream at the 2025 Masters.
  
  Mocs compete in first-ever SSC Beach Volleyball Championship
  
  April 18, 2025
  
  The Sandy Mocs (20-10) competed in the inaugural Sunshine State Conference (SSC) Beach Volleyball Championship at Saint Leo University April 11-12.
  
  Men and women’s track on fire at SSC Championships
  
  April 18, 2025
  
  FSC’s track and field team is running full speed into one of its strongest seasons in years. With new school records, a positive team culture, and rising freshman talent, the team is determined to stand out.
Arts & Entertainment
- Art Comedy Comics Movies Music
  
  Backstage brilliance: Theatre tech students steal the spotlight
  
  April 22, 2025
  
  At Florida Southern College, the magic of theatre doesn’t just unfold under the spotlight; it’s forged behind the scenes, in the paint fumes of the scenic shop, the quiet hum of light boards, and the creative, sometimes frantic, energy that pulses through the costume shop. Here, a select group of students are mastering the unsung art of technical theatre and design through FSC’s Bachelor of Fine Arts in Technical Theatre and Design program, a hands-on, deeply immersive experience that transforms behind-the-scenes enthusiasts into creative powerhouses.
  
  Preview: Spring play ‘The Little Dog Laughed’
  
  April 1, 2025
  
  “The Little Dog Laughed” is a play written by Doug Carter Beane in 2006. It centers around two lovers navigating a world that challenges their ability to keep their passion alive for each other. Despite its intriguing title, the play itself unfortunately does not involve a dog. Its focus lies elsewhere, exploring human connections and societal pressures. The story revolves around Mitchell Green, a prominent movie star on the verge of landing his big breakthrough role. However, his sexuality poses a challenge to his career with social norms surrounding the Hollywood scene.
  
  ‘You a fan Alabama’: Opinion on Bhad Bhabie and Alabama Barker feud
  
  April 1, 2025
  
  When I sat in my Lake Hollingsworth Apartment last year and said “bring disstracks back,” rapper Danielle Bregoli (Bhad Bhabie) and social media star Alabama Barker’s feud is exactly what I meant. While the two started out as friends, their relationship turned sour when Bhabie and her boyfriend/baby daddy Le Vaughn broke up for the second time.
  
  Kinetic Connections: A showcase of dance, dedication & artistic excellence
  
  April 1, 2025
  
  FSC’s annual dance show, Kinetic Connections, is slated to take the stage from March 28 - 30. Directed by Associate Professor Dance Program Coordinator Erin LaSala Phillips, the show will be a part of the Festival of Fine Arts as it has been in the past, coming together with other programming to showcase the diverse artistic talents of students and faculty.
  
  Opinion: Charley Crockett’s ‘$10 Cowboy’ deserved a Grammy
  
  February 21, 2025
  
  Charley Crockett is the greatest country musician of our generation. People love to talk about how artists are snubbed at the Grammy Awards for their music. Crockett has made his way up to fame within the Americana genre, overpowering country artists who put a pop beat behind their music, like Morgan Wallen or Luke Bryan.
e-Edition
- Spring 2025
- Archived Editions

Celebrating 100 years in Lakeland

THE SOUTHERNThe Student Voice of Florida Southern College

73 F

Lakeland

Saturday, May 24, 2025

News
- All Athletics Campus Campus Safety Coronavirus
  
  Students receive Sheriff’s Commendation for saving Lakeland man’s life
  
  On April 8, 2024, junior Alex McManus and sophomore Brian von Suskil planned on driving to Starbucks early in the morning to grab breakfast while they applied for classes. Thinking the coffee house would be crowded, they decided to go to McDonalds instead. This change would alter 71-year-old Terry Dennis’ life forever. “Two older guys that came in, which ended up being Terry and then his friend Fred,” McManus said. “They had sat behind us and I didn’t think anything of it. And then I just, like, my back faced them and I heard something smack the ground. I turned around and then Terry had fallen out like, coffee everywhere, he just fell out of his chair. He was lying on the ground.”
  
  Senior named National DSP Collegian of the Year
  
  Gracianna Campbell, a senior accounting major from Tampa, didn’t set out to win awards when she joined Delta Sigma Pi (DSP) — she just wanted to find a community. Now, as she prepares to graduate, she’s leaving with not just that, but also the highest honor a collegiate member of DSP can receive: National Collegian of the Year (COY).
  
  How will Trump’s tariffs impact the economy?
  
  On Wednesday, April 2, newly named as ‘Liberation Day,’ President Trump made a historic executive order calling for a minimum 10% tariff on all goods imported to the United States, in response to what he claimed as a national economic emergency. Along with this, other countries that have large trade deficits with the U.S. will receive even higher tariffs.
  
  SGA transitions leadership with 2025–26 executive board
  
  FSC’s Student Government Association (SGA) has announced its executive board for the 2025-26 academic year. Lexi Lapore-Paternostro has been elected student body president; Ben Ruby executive vice president; Michael Desrosiers administrative vice president. Garrett Hultman vice president of finance; and Katrina Machado vice president of communications.
  
  Dr. Martin reflects on his first year at FSC
  
  Dr. Jeremy Martin is coming to the conclusion of his first academic year of presidency at FSC. When Dr. Martin first became president at FSC, he made no immediate goals of change. Rather, Martin proactively made it his first step to know and understand the FSC community more deeply and profoundly. With a two major hurricanes hitting Central Florida within just a few weeks of his start, Martin faced a challenge.
Features
- All Alumni Alumnus Faculty Lakeland
  
  Prof. Mike Nabors’ guide to pivoting in life & career
  
  Professor Mike Nabors teaches at FSC about the world of sports media, an industry he’s been a part of for more than 30 years. Recently, he’s released his second book, entitled “Don’t Quit Pivot,” which aims to drive others to chase their dreams and pursue their passions. In the book, Nabors writes, “The goal [of this book] is to pass on the idea that the ability to move from one career to something better for you is attainable for everyone.”
  
  New Real Estate Society opens a gateway to industry networking
  
  Interested in the real estate world? Students now have the perfect opportunity, thanks to a brand new student organization: the Real Estate Society, founded by sophomore Claudia Kaczmarczyk. Kaczmarczyk, a finance major from Chicago, started the society just a few weeks ago with the goal of giving students more exposure to the real estate industry, something she’s been involved in for the past two years.
  
  Students receive Sheriff’s Commendation for saving Lakeland man’s life
  
  On April 8, 2024, junior Alex McManus and sophomore Brian von Suskil planned on driving to Starbucks early in the morning to grab breakfast while they applied for classes. Thinking the coffee house would be crowded, they decided to go to McDonalds instead. This change would alter 71-year-old Terry Dennis’ life forever. “Two older guys that came in, which ended up being Terry and then his friend Fred,” McManus said. “They had sat behind us and I didn’t think anything of it. And then I just, like, my back faced them and I heard something smack the ground. I turned around and then Terry had fallen out like, coffee everywhere, he just fell out of his chair. He was lying on the ground.”
  
  Senior named National DSP Collegian of the Year
  
  Gracianna Campbell, a senior accounting major from Tampa, didn’t set out to win awards when she joined Delta Sigma Pi (DSP) — she just wanted to find a community. Now, as she prepares to graduate, she’s leaving with not just that, but also the highest honor a collegiate member of DSP can receive: National Collegian of the Year (COY).
  
  Dance Marathon: Recap & future improvements
  
  Dance Marathons have happened all across the country. At FSC, the event first came to campus spring of 2023 as an initiative to raise money for children with cancer, especially supporting the Children’s Miracle Network at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg. Executive Director of this initiative Chloe Lanham has helped bring Dance Marathon back to campus after a short hiatus last year.
Southern View
- All Columns Editorial Letter to the Editor Politics
  
  Bye-bye Bryant: The editor-in-chief’s goodbye
  
  A typical senior goodbye from an editor of The Southern usually involves them saying how they never expected to write until they stepped foot on campus, took a communications class, or read a copy of the paper. This is not that type of goodbye.
  
  ‘Miraculous’ change in animation represents a change in quality
  
  Over the duration of the show “Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug and Cat Noir” ten years on air, it has remained consistent with its animation style for the first five seasons. When the show was initially conceptualized, it was intended to feature a 2D anime style. The creators opted for a 3D CGI animation, instead, which has contributed significantly to its broad appeal. I think this was the correct choice because if it had followed a more cutesy aesthetic, I’m not sure the show would have garnered as much attention or captivated audiences in the same way.
  
  Absurd luxury items that are worth a laugh, not your money
  
  On March 11, Silver Cross announced a partnership with Lamborghini to create a “super” stroller, tagging it at a staggering price tag of $5,500. The four wheeled speed demon will include a high glass polycarbonate basket, a sprung magnetic harness, full suspension wheels and, of course, the Lamborghini logo. A lot of questions come to mind, yet one I think everyone shares is: Why? Who asked for this? Who is the target audience here? It seems that more and more often, new wacky gadgets with an unnecessarily high price tag are released to a consumer base that is nonexistent.
  
  Late start to 2025-26 academic year may impact student plans
  
  As the academic landscape continuously evolves, I find myself grappling with a blend of anticipation and anxiety regarding the recent release of the Fall 2025 and Spring 2026 academic calendars. The decision to push back the start of classes by a week has left me questioning the motivations behind this change. While it may be an effort to synchronize Florida Southern with other colleges across the country, this shift feels like a mixed blessing for a family like mine that has multiple kids attending different college at the same time.
  
  Nepotism in Hollywood: The good, the bad & the privileged
  
  Nepotism has long been a staple of the entertainment industry, with many celebrities having parents who paved the way for their success. For those unaware, nepotism is defined as the practice among those with the power or influence of favoring relatives, friends, or associates, especially by giving them jobs. While some “nepo babies” might use their privileged status to work hard and build a career based on their own merits, others will ride the coattails of their famous last names without putting in the effort anybody else would have to do. The difference between a “good” and “bad nepo baby” often comes down to their work ethic, humility and the values instilled by their parents.
Sports
- All Baseball Basketball Cross Country eSports
  
  Men’s golf captures first SSC title since 2010
  
  On Tuesday, April 15, the No. 11 men’s golf team secured the Sunshine State Conference (SSC) Championship title, while the women’s golf team placed fifth. This is the men’s first SSC title in 15 years and 17th overall.
  
  Baseball obliterates school stolen base record, beats Tampa
  
  The record books are poised to add this 2024-2025 team to school immortality as the Mocs have already broken the school record for stolen bases in 38 games with 171.
  
  Grand slam glory: McIlroy conquers Augusta
  
  After 11 years of anticipation since his first major win at the 2011 U.S. Open, and a career marked by brilliance, determination, and strength across 17 Masters starts since his debut in 2009, Rory McIlroy finally joined that elite group and achieved his long-held dream at the 2025 Masters.
  
  Mocs compete in first-ever SSC Beach Volleyball Championship
  
  The Sandy Mocs (20-10) competed in the inaugural Sunshine State Conference (SSC) Beach Volleyball Championship at Saint Leo University April 11-12.
  
  Men and women’s track on fire at SSC Championships
  
  FSC’s track and field team is running full speed into one of its strongest seasons in years. With new school records, a positive team culture, and rising freshman talent, the team is determined to stand out.
Arts & Entertainment
- All Art Comedy Comics Movies
  
  Backstage brilliance: Theatre tech students steal the spotlight
  
  At Florida Southern College, the magic of theatre doesn’t just unfold under the spotlight; it’s forged behind the scenes, in the paint fumes of the scenic shop, the quiet hum of light boards, and the creative, sometimes frantic, energy that pulses through the costume shop. Here, a select group of students are mastering the unsung art of technical theatre and design through FSC’s Bachelor of Fine Arts in Technical Theatre and Design program, a hands-on, deeply immersive experience that transforms behind-the-scenes enthusiasts into creative powerhouses.
  
  Preview: Spring play ‘The Little Dog Laughed’
  
  “The Little Dog Laughed” is a play written by Doug Carter Beane in 2006. It centers around two lovers navigating a world that challenges their ability to keep their passion alive for each other. Despite its intriguing title, the play itself unfortunately does not involve a dog. Its focus lies elsewhere, exploring human connections and societal pressures. The story revolves around Mitchell Green, a prominent movie star on the verge of landing his big breakthrough role. However, his sexuality poses a challenge to his career with social norms surrounding the Hollywood scene.
  
  ‘You a fan Alabama’: Opinion on Bhad Bhabie and Alabama Barker feud
  
  When I sat in my Lake Hollingsworth Apartment last year and said “bring disstracks back,” rapper Danielle Bregoli (Bhad Bhabie) and social media star Alabama Barker’s feud is exactly what I meant. While the two started out as friends, their relationship turned sour when Bhabie and her boyfriend/baby daddy Le Vaughn broke up for the second time.
  
  Kinetic Connections: A showcase of dance, dedication & artistic excellence
  
  FSC’s annual dance show, Kinetic Connections, is slated to take the stage from March 28 - 30. Directed by Associate Professor Dance Program Coordinator Erin LaSala Phillips, the show will be a part of the Festival of Fine Arts as it has been in the past, coming together with other programming to showcase the diverse artistic talents of students and faculty.
  
  Opinion: Charley Crockett’s ‘$10 Cowboy’ deserved a Grammy
  
  Charley Crockett is the greatest country musician of our generation. People love to talk about how artists are snubbed at the Grammy Awards for their music. Crockett has made his way up to fame within the Americana genre, overpowering country artists who put a pop beat behind their music, like Morgan Wallen or Luke Bryan.
e-Edition
- Spring 2025
- Archived Editions

Home News

News

Random

News

Faculty member leaves art department

February 18, 2021

News

Nair presents awareness of art’s impact on humility, inspirations and resilience

March 24, 2017

News

‘Satanic’ mural removed from South Florida Ave. after complaints

April 5, 2019

It’s Raining Cats and Dogs at Lake Mirror

Features April 19, 2016

Mariah Nichols, Staff Writer Two and four-legged friends proudly walked around Lake Mirror on Saturday, April 16 at 8 a.m. for the SPCA 2016 Walk for Animals here in Lakeland. The event provided plenty of fun activities...

Business-oriented horticulture major to start next fall

News February 20, 2024

A new horticulture major is coming to Florida Southern in the fall, which includes a few different courses and a curriculum that focuses on the business side of agriculture.

Buckner Theatre opens a real “play on words”

Campus February 19, 2016

The Florida Southern College Festival of Fine Arts opened their production of the hilarious musical “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” at the...

Break shortened to meet credit requirements

News September 29, 2021

Tim Keller Florida Southern College has announced that fall break would occur this year, beginning on Thursday, Oct. 21 and classes resuming on Tuesday, Oct....

First student-safety advisory meeting shows promise

News May 3, 2022

This council, made up of the leaders from various student-led organizations, met to discuss the state of the Safety Department on the campus of Florida Southern College.

A Juicy Way To Celebrate Strawberry Day

Features March 22, 2016

Ashley Augusty, Staff Writer What is the most delicious fruit in the world? Cantaloupes, watermelons or maybe even blueberries?  Well the folks of plant city would like to...

Students now charged to print

News October 10, 2013

Students will now be charged per page printed in select areas with the school’s new printing system. Bringing paper to computer labs will no...

Wynee’s Bistro updates decor, meal plan and prices

News September 19, 2023

In Wynee’s Bistro, also known as the cafeteria, recent renovations have transformed the Bistro into a brighter space with freshly painted white and red walls.

Opinion: Restoration of Felons Voting Rights

National October 4, 2019

Alex Zimmer American citizens all over the country celebrated National Voters Registration Day on Sept. 24, yet former Florida felons are still seeking the right...

Computer Science flies into future

News January 16, 2015

Florida Southern College’s computer science department is ‘flying’ toward the future in a new project in drone research and development. Jordan Finney, a senior computer...

12 3...62 Page 1 of 62