By James Brown, Winter Dube and Ansley DeCenzo, Spectator Staff Writers  The entire VSU community is being heavily impacted by federal and state directives related to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts at universities nationwide.  VSU President Richard Carvajal spoke at a recent Faculty Senate meeting regarding how the federal decisions have impacted the university, including many changes to the ...

Written by James Brown, Entertainment Editor. Grammy winning singer and songwriter the Weeknd released his long awaited sixth studio album “Hurry Up Tomorrow” On Jan. 31.  Many fans have been anticipating the album due to the Weeknd’s established skill as a performer, as well as his upcoming movie of the same name.  With all of the hype surrounding its release, I ...

Written by Madeline Higdon, Staff Reporter. A pair of glasses caused quite a splash outside of Oak Parking Deck on Wednesday.  A student was helped by a fellow classmate, who went into the creek to save them in an act of kindness.  Dr. Clell Wright’s concert choir rehearsal had just gotten out and many students exited the Fine Arts Building ...

Written by Jasmine Hightower, Copy Editor. VSU’s defending champions, the debate team, are striving in their tournaments and continue to refine their winning approach by showcasing their strategic argumentation skills and unwavering dedication.  As champions, the debate team are constantly debating different and somewhat difficult topics against other prestigious schools, such as Harvard University, Louisiana State University, Arizona State University and ...

Story By: Bailey Wilson, Ansley DeCenzo, Arizona Renfroe, Lloy Hudson, Winter Dube, Armoné Gates, James Brown, Jasmine Hightower, SeanTae-A Price  In a small blue house next to the Student Health Center, a student walks through the yellow front door of the ELI Annex. She stops just long enough to sign her name on the sheet on the table in front ...

Written by Jasmine Hightower, Copy Editor. Visiting artist Chico Sierra opened his exhibition, The Good Sun, on Feb.13 at the Dedo Maranville Gallery in the Fine Arts Building.  Originally from El Paso, Texas, Sierra’s artwork consists of the vibrancy of indigenous culture, pop art and his own cultural identity. Most of his artwork includes bright and vibrant colors and line ...

Written by Lloydrica Hudson, Staff Reporter. A hidden gem off Saint Augustine Road is a perfect way to describe Outback Steakhouse of Valdosta, Georgia.   A delightful greeting from the hostess Trish met with a smile and introduction to my table. She suggested the Blooming Onion, a must when dining in at any Outback.   The Blooming Onion is greasy, small, and ...

This editorial reflects the general opinion of The Spectator staff.  Faulty air conditioning. No hot water. No access to information on bus routes. Limited parking spots. Sound familiar? VSU has struggled for years with facilities on campus not working, or if they work, at a lower quality than advertised. Ask any senior who has spent their college career here– most ...

Written By Christopher Mercer, Sports Editor. Now that Valentine’s Day is here, there are many different places to go to celebrate the day of love. Although many national chains will be well-frequented, this list will include local Valdosta restaurants that can greatly impress your Valentine this year. With that in mind, here are the five of the best local restaurants ...

Written by Tianna Bennett, Staff Reporter. Say “Ni Hao” to the newest store in Valdosta Mall called Miniso.  Originally founded in China, this store is making its way across America and has finally arrived at the Valdosta Mall.  On a recent weekday, a group of young girls between the ages of 16 to 20 looked inside. One exclaimed, “This is ...