The Republican-dominated Indiana Senate voted 19-31on Thursday against redrawing the state's congressional districts - spurning months of demands from President Donald Trump.

The final outcome remained uncertain until21Republicans joined all 10 Democratic senators in rejecting the redistricting plan.

With that tally, Indiana became the first Republican-led state Legislature to vote down Trump's wish tosqueeze out more GOP-friendly congressional seatsin hopes of improving the party's chances of keeping its slim U.S. House majority after the 2026 midterm elections.

The Indiana House last week approved the new maps crafted by theNational Republican Redistricting Trusttoproduce a 9-0 Republican delegation. It did so by carving up the two districts currently held by Democratic Reps. André Carson in Indianapolis and Frank Mrvan in the area along Lake Michigan near Chicago.

But the Senate's Republican leader, President Pro Tem Rodric Bray, has said repeatedly thattoo few GOP senators supported the mid-decade redistrictingfor it to pass.

Thursday's Senate outcome came even with Trump,Gov. Mike Braun and other redistricting supporterscontinuing to cajole - and politically threaten - Bray and other senators who opposed the move.

Trump was calling individual senators this week seeking support and took to social media Wednesday night to seethe over Bray and other Indiana Republicans who weren't following his demands.

"Unfortunately, Indiana Senate 'Leader' Rod Bray enjoys being the only person in the United States of America who is against Republicans picking up extra seats, in Indiana's case, two of them,"Trump's post said. "He is putting every ounce of his limited strength into asking his soon to be very vulnerable friends to vote with him."

Indiana House Republicans pushed the proposed maps through that chamber last week by a 57-41 margin, with 12 GOP members joining Democrats in voting "no."

Several Republican senators against the redistricting plan cited what they described as overwhelming public opposition. Others said they didn't believe it was proper to overhaul the Republican-drawn maps approved in 2021 for such blatant political purposes, with some objecting to the overt gerrymandering of Indianapolis among four districts spanning as far away as the Ohio River.

Trump started the national redistricting fight by pushingTexas Republicans to redrawits congressional map this summer, followed by Republican redistricting moves inMissouri,OhioandNorth Carolina. An attempt byKansas Republicansfor a special session on redistricting stalled this fall.

Democrats responded with their own redistricting inCaliforniaand possible moves inIllinoisandVirginia.

Trump's Wednesday night post appeared to foreshadow the outcome of the Indiana Senate vote.

"Rod Bray and his friends won't be in Politics for long, and I will do everything within my power to make sure that they will not hurt the Republican Party, and our Country, again," the post said. "One of my favorite States, Indiana, will be the only State in the Union to turn the Republican Party down!"

Bray isn't up for election until 2028.

The outages will take place daily from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will leave both buildings with minimal lighting, limited heating, no domestic water and no access to restrooms. Students, faculty and staff will not be able to use the buildings during those hours.

According to the email, the outages are part of construction work to supply "primary power" to the new Performing Arts Center and the Center for Innovation.

Anyone with questions is asked to contact Director of Construction Robert Ramey at 765-285-2835 or reramey2@bsu.edu.

This year, the team has the same goal, but with an abundance of new faces. Ball State had 10 players leave the team after last season, resulting in almost an entirely different squad despite some returners: Grace Kingery, Zuri Ransom, Tessa Towers and Ashlynn Brooke. They went from a team with only two freshmen on the roster to six, most of whom are from overseas.

While many of the new faces are freshmen, junior guard Karsyn Norman, freshman guard Violeta Rojas and senior forward Bree Salenbien transfer into the program as upperclassmen with some experience under their belts.

Norman spent the past two seasons as a guard for the Butler Bulldogs, where she scored 251 total points and garnered 110 rebounds. Violeta Rojas comes in after a year at Trinidad State, where she averaged 20.1 points with a 47 percent shooting percentage. Salenbien spent four seasons with the Gonzaga Bulldogs and recorded a total of 75 points and 40 rebounds before suffering an injury at the end of her sophomore year, which sidelined her for her sophomore campaign. Last season, she played in 21 games while averaging 6.4 points per game.

Although Salenbien is a fifth-year and one of the leaders on this team, she says she still has a lot to learn after being set back by multiple injuries over her career.

"Everyone thinks I have a lot of experience, but I've been hurt a lot. I'm kind of learning as we go, it's a group effort for sure," Salenbien said, "I'm trying to be the best I can, and I think it's a learning effort for all of us."

As the Cardinals added on three upper classmen to their roster, they also brought in six freshmen, most of whom are international, in Zhen Verburgt (Belgium), Alba Caballero (Spain), Georgia Gorini (Italy), Laura Martinez (Spain), Aniss Tagayi (France) and Brooke Winchester, the only player from the freshman class who is from the United States.

This freshman class could be seen as the future faces of the Cardinals, as most of them already have experience playing at a high level, including Tagayi, who was part of the 2023-24 U18 Women's French Cup Finalist team and the 2024 U18 Women's European Championship team.

Tagayi credits her time with her different teams in France as helping her adapt to new playing environments.

"When you're going to the National team, you're playing with people you never play with during the year, so just trying to adapt yourself to your teammates and all," Tagayi said.

While a majority of the freshmen are international, such as Tagayi, that is not something Coach Sallee is necessarily looking at. For him, it is all about talent.

"For us, it's just one big pot of potential players, and we go find the ones that fit the way we play and what we're looking for," Sallee said. "From a character standpoint, a toughness standpoint, a skill set standpoint, they checked the boxes and it ended up the way it ended up."

With the team loaded with underclassmen, Sallee is focusing on their growth and on building this new squad to reach their full potential.

"It's got to be the process that we fall in love with [and] it's off to a good start. We played through some adversity, we've shown some real toughness, got two big wins on the road, but we've got plenty to learn from and get better with, and that's the exciting part," Sallee said.

As the new additions have played in four games so far with the Cardinals, they've also had time to settle in on campus and make themselves at home.

"It's a college town for sure, and everyone's all in at Ball State, so it's been pretty cool," Salenbien said.

In addition to making the most of the campus, students can use the amenities to not only become better athletes but also better students.

"I think [it's great] because of all the things you have for your students and for your athletes," Tagayi said. "When you're studying [and need help], there's a lot of stuff to help you. I love the fact that teachers can help you, and they're really open if you have a question. I think that's what I like the most so far."

The new faces have fit in well so far at Ball State, not only in the classroom but also on the court, as the Cardinals women's basketball team is currently 8-3 in their 2025-26 campaign. They look to keep their momentum in full force as they get ready to face off against South Dakota State University Dec. 14.

Contact Rylan Crum at rylan.crum@bsu.edu or on X @RylanCrum.

The advisory issued at 8:30 p.m. on Dec. 10 was a "yellow" status, the lowest of the county's travel advisory levels. These different declarations signal that hazardous conditions may impact routine travel and urges drivers to use caution.

As of 9 p.m. on Wednesday, the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) was reporting that 19 of 92 counties had declared a travel advisory. These were primarily in the north and northeast parts of the state, stretching down into East Central Indiana.

INDOT keeps an updated map of travel advisories here. Travel status information is provided by each county's emergency management agency. As counties initiate official travel advisories and notify the state, the map updates with that information.

As for the snow, the National Weather Service (NWS) in Indianapolis issued a Special Weather Statement for Delaware, Randolph and Henry Counties at 9 p.m. on Wednesday. Forecasters estimated up to half an inch of accumulation in the heaviest pockets, enough to create icy spots as the snow briefly melted on road surfaces before refreezing.

Officials cautioned drivers to slow down and anticipate rapidly deteriorating conditions.

"Snow or ice-covered roads can develop quickly in situations like this," the NWS said in the advisory.

Wednesday night's burst is just the beginning of a prolonged stretch of winter weather. NWS also had a hazardous weather outlook issued, warning of accumulating snow likely from Thursday evening into Friday morning, with another chance of snow on Saturday.

Temperatures are expected to plunge over the weekend, according to forecasts, potentially delivering the coldest air of the season this far. Lows could fall to zero or below, with wind chills dropping as low as 20 degrees below zero.

Hosted by: Chris Dawson, Ian Fraser, Ian Case

Graphic by: Ian case

Edited by: Ian Fraser

Tickets for the 8 p.m. concert will go on sale at Emens Box Office 10 a.m. Friday, Dec. 12.

The show will be the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer's most recent performance at Emens since November 2019.

Contact the Daily News via email at editor@bsu.dailynews.com.

"Fill all blanks, please."

Such was Grace DeHority's "favorite saying," according to the 1923 edition of the Ball State Orient, the official university yearbook, which is no longer in production. This line reads less as a pleasant instruction at an appointment you'd rather skip, but rather as a challenge raised to every student.

Grace was a testament to the fact that one's legacy can never truly be measured by the power of their name alone.

An editorial published in the Muncie Evening Press after her death declared, "Here was a woman of staunch character, a living example of the ideals that were always her guiding stars, a good woman. She set a high standard for herself and continually urged others, particularly the women who came under her, to live full lives."

Grace's legacy is more than just the dormitory complex where students occupied their freshman year; her legacy lies within the thousands of women who were under Grace's tutelage during her 24 years as Dean of Women.

On Aug. 2, 1879, Grace DeHority became one of fewer than 800 in the quaint town of Elwood, Indiana. Born to James and Louisa DeHority, she lived in a house of eight. Grace was the eldest of her siblings. Throughout her early years, Grace matriculated through the Elwood public school system, graduating at age 19 in the summer of 1899.

Right after graduation, she began teaching at Elwood schools, earning a $360 annual salary to start. Grace taught at Elwood Elementary for ten years until 1910, when she moved to the junior high. It was here that she taught science and geography, improving her earnings to a $1,100 annual salary. However, in 1907, at the age of 28, Grace DeHority's life as a teacher became far more complicated.

Her father, a small grain and implement dealer, passed away just one year after her mother. This left her to raise her youngest sibling, twelve-year-old Anna, on her own.

Her sisters, Ethel and Alice, were married off, and her brothers Glen and Chester went off to find their own wives soon after.

It was only after Anna's coming of age, six years following their father's death, that Grace found the time to attend the Indiana State Normal School in Terre Haute, earning a bachelor's degree in philosophy in 1920, at age 41.

After graduation, Grace found herself as the principal of her alma mater, the junior high school in Elwood. She only occupied this position for two years, as in 1922, she took the vacant position formerly filled by May Klipple: Dean of Women at Ball Teachers College. The position had only existed for four years, beginning in 1918, with Viletta Baker operating as the first Dean of Women until 1921, when May took over for a year.

Viletta and May, who went on to become professors of foreign languages and English, respectively, each had a hall named after them; these halls would complete what would become the Noyer Complex, a dormitory that still stands today.

In 1946, when Grace retired after 24 years at Ball Teachers College, the position retired with her. No longer would there be a Dean of Women and a Dean of Men.

After World War II, when soldiers came back from war and resumed their education, students would be under one dean, regardless of gender. In the years following her retirement, the Ball Teachers College community made Grace's name a hallowed one. Fourteen years after her retirement, in 1960, Grace's work at the university was honored with a brand new dormitory in her name: the Grace DeHority Residence Hall.

In interviews published in the Muncie Evening Press, students spoke of the impact Grace had on their lives. A former student said of Grace,

"When I think of all I got from her in college, I don't know how any woman could give so much. She expected good conduct and even insisted on it; yet, she was kind but firm when people did not live up to [her] high standards."

Grace's colleagues in the student personnel department at Ball Teachers College praised her dedication deeply, detailing in a statement in the Muncie Evening Press: "Through her desire to understand and help the young men and women of the college, Miss DeHority became their friend - one whose company was enjoyable and whose counsel was often solicited. She influenced conduct and aims by example as well as by precept and program."

Between fulfilling her duties as dean, she found the time to earn her master's degree at Columbia University, which she completed in 1928.

As Dean of Women, Grace held the advancement of women's rights as top priority. In her time, Grace was one of the most active members of the local feminist community, supporting young women in embracing their independence and their power all throughout her time in Muncie.

At Ball State, she sponsored several sororities, while also taking on the Girls' Club, founded by her predecessor, Viletta Baker. By her final year at Ball State in 1946, she had grown the Girls' Club to be the largest organization on campus, with over 500 girls being members of the club.

In the spring of 1945, as most young men in the country were still overseas, there were only 550 students at Ball State. Nearly every single student at Ball State was female at the time, and nearly every single Ball State student belonged to Grace DeHority's Girls' Club.

The president of Ball State from 1945-1968, John Emens, once said, "Ball State is what it is today because of a loyal, hard-working and dedicated faculty who had faith in a young institution. Miss DeHority was one of the leading members of this rather small, but stellar group."

Grace didn't stop there; she also had a deep involvement with the Central Indiana chapter of the Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA), heading a leadership committee of 18 girls, serving as president of the organization and later as the president of the board of directors. She was also the head sponsor of a Ball State chapter of the YWCA, heading a leadership committee of 18 girls, with a president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, and a cabinet consisting of 14 female students.

The Ball State YWCA would host a variety of events, including its Morning Prayer with and its World Student Service Fund. What gained Grace the most notoriety within the Muncie community, however, was her involvement in the Altrusa Club. Now, Altrusa International of Muncie, Indiana, the Muncie division was founded on Oct. 17, 1923, with Grace present as a founding member.

From 1923 until she died in 1964, she was an extremely active member of the club, often using the home she shared with Ms. Barcus Tichenor, Ball State librarian from 1921 to 1945, as a home base for Altrusa Club meetings.

On the morning of June 19, 1964, Grace was seen picking flowers from her garden hours before that night's annual meeting. That afternoon, she fell ill and was rushed to Ball Memorial Hospital, where she died shortly after. The Altrusa Club annual meeting on June 19 occurred without a single flower from the DeHority garden.

The people of Muncie refused to see another Altrusa Club meeting without the presence of Grace's flowers. In 1965, her YWCA colleagues used funds raised from the YW Thrift Shop, which she had personally supervised, to build the Grace DeHority Memorial Garden, located on the east side of the Muncie YWCA.

"Miss DeHority served graciously and with dignity and a deep appreciation of all with whom she came in contact. She leaves us a rich legacy for which we are all grateful," John said of Grace in a statement published after her death in the Muncie Evening Press.

In an article published in the Muncie Evening Press by Marjorie Parsons, she was described as a "campus oracle."

In Grace's eyes, when asked what she believed her job was, she believed it was "just as much of a teacher of the classroom with the added advantage or disadvantage that I don't have a definite subject to cover."

For decades, Ball State women would come to Grace asking what dress to wear to a party and how to make friends.. Through it all, Grace DeHority was a teacher and she taught everything she knew to the women of Ball State University.

In an unaddressed letter signed by Grace, she stated her opinion on the characteristics of what makes a good teacher.

"A good teacher should have: Vigorous mind and body, much knowledge, great wisdom, tact, sense of humor, pleasant voice, ability to get on with people, ability to inspire effort, ability to make people make themselves A Mother Carey, as it were. Grace DeHority."

This article is a part of Ball Bearings Fall 2025 magazine: The Archival Edition. Read more stories online at ballbearingsmag.com and pick up the print edition of the magazine across Ball State's campus now.

In the same study, 43 percent of adults said the stress of the holidays interferes with their ability to enjoy them altogether.

To avoid financial stress this winter, here are five Christmas or holiday gift ideas for anyone on your list while on a budget:

Anything handmade

Research conducted by academics Christoph Fuchs, Stijn van Osselaer, and Martin Schreier, published in March 2015 on behalf of the American Marketing Association, suggests that despite the popularity and high quality of machine-made products, handmade products are more sought after because they are thought to "symbolically contain love."

Get out some markers, construction paper or your sewing kit and show your loved ones how much you care at little to no extra cost!

Gift cards

A gift card to a friend or loved one's favorite place is a thoughtful gift that lets you, as the gifter, decide exactly how much you want to spend, typically $5-$250.

Plus, most gift cards come in a cardstock envelope and do not require additional wrapping, saving you both money and time.

Experiences rather than items

Amber Tucker, an editor of mindful.org, wrote in a Dec. 2022 webpost for the organization, "By gifting experiences instead of things, we can focus on the real goals of exchanging gifts: to express love and generosity to the people we care about, create opportunities to connect with them and contribute to their greater well-being and happiness."

Experiences can ultimately generate memories - rather than a one-time sense of gratification from materialistic goods.

Various places in Muncie are perfect for family-friendly activities and experiences this holiday season, like Minnetrista Museums and Gardens or Made in Muncie Pottery.

Cozy comfort for the season

As temperatures continue to drop, a comfy blanket, a pair of fuzzy socks, or a festive mug to sip a hot beverage from is just the thing for watching the snow fall from the comfort of one's home.

Pieces of practicality

Small items are still thoughtful items, especially when intended for everyday use, like a lotion or lip balm in someone's favorite scent, or a notebook and pen for on-the-go use.

Contact Katherine Hill via email at katherine.hill@bsu.edu.

College is an exciting, messy and unpredictable stretch of life, one that everyone figures out a little differently. But even though every experience is unique, there are a few pieces of advice that almost everyone can benefit from. From what I have experienced, three of the biggest are learning how to balance your life, actually showing up to class and keeping your focus on what matters most.

Let's start with balance, because college will constantly test it. Suddenly, you have the freedom to stay up as late as you want, join any club, take any class or spend hours hanging out with friends. On top of that, you are expected to manage your own schedule, keep up with assignments, work a job and still find time to rest. With so much happening at once, it can be easy to tip too far in one direction - whether that be stressing nonstop about school or getting swept up in the social side of things.

The truth is, neither extreme works for long. A healthier approach to college is to recognize your needs in the moment and adjust accordingly. Some days, you will need to buckle down and study; others, you will need to take a break, call home or grab dinner with friends. Balance is not about perfection - it is about paying attention to yourself and making choices that keep you steady.

Another simple but powerful piece of advice is to show up to class. It sounds almost too basic, but going to class regularly makes a bigger difference than most people expect. When you are there in person, you catch the examples, the quick explanations, the professor's hints and the discussions that do not always make it into the notes or slides.

It also helps create a routine: when you are physically present, it is harder to fall behind and easier to stay connected to what is going on. Plus, professors really do notice who shows up. Building that small habit can lead to better grades and better relationships, which can be incredibly helpful later on when you need advice, support or recommendations.

The last major key is focus. College is full of distractions - friends knocking on your door, group chats blowing up, assignments from every direction and, of course, the endless pull of your phone. Staying focused does not mean you have to throw away your social life completely; it just means you should be intentional with your time.

Set aside blocks to get your work done, figure out where you can concentrate best and give yourself breaks without letting them stretch into entire afternoons. But focus means more than giving yourself the needed space to do assignments - it also means knowing what you want out of college.

You do not need to have your whole life planned, but having some sense of direction - like exploring a major you care about or building skills for a future job - makes it easier to stay motivated.

In the end, college is about learning, growing and figuring out who you are. If you can maintain some balance, commit to showing up and hold your focus when it matters, you will set yourself up for a college experience that is not just successful, but genuinely meaningful.

Contact Zion Bricker via email at zion.bricker@bsu.edu.

Warning: This review contains spoilers for Five Nights at Freddy's 2

The film franchise based on the video game series Five Nights at Freddy's has released its second film. After getting the opportunity to see the film on opening night as a group, here is Byte's review of the film.

Ian Case

While a fun time, Five Nights at Freddy's 2 falls short as an actual horror movie. Scares are somewhat improved over the first installment, with the Puppet giving a more paranormal flair to the horror of the film. However, the story feels noticeably messier, taking detours from the core narrative to deliver quirky moments and fan-service references. Outside of Josh Hutcherson and what little we get of Matthew Lillard, other performances are painfully weak, making the actual believability of this story feel flimsy at best. Many may say that this movie is really made for the fans, but I think the fans deserve better.

Favorite Moment: Vanessa's (Elizabeth Lail) dream sequence.

Acting: 5

Story: 3

Scariness: 6

Ian Fraser

Like a lot of video game movies, the highlights were moments that felt like the actual game. Those moments were really strong, especially in the second act. The plot felt very cliché and lacked a lot of depth, but I don't think it's detrimental to the movie. It's exactly as stupid and campy as you would expect a movie based on Five Nights at Freddy's to be, and I think that makes it a good watch.

Favorite moment: Any time Wayne Knight was on screen.

Acting: 7

Story: 6

Scariness: 3

Ivory Queen

As a long-time Five Nights at Freddy's fan, I can't say the movie isn't made with a level of passion and effort from the team. The references to the community's memes and even the franchise's own history and easter eggs show that they did care to make it a movie for the fans, but that leaves it in a state where it's not good for really anyone else. Horror fans would come out of it disappointed in lackluster scares-with some albeit solid tension-and film fans would come out of it disappointed at its disjointed plot that requires the secondary cast to act as horrible people that do things for no real reason just to drive the plot or create victims you don't feel bad for.

In spite of the movie's flaws, I can't say I was left bored. Just like its predecessor, the movie has amazing visuals with the practical effects and real animatronics made by the Jim Henson Creature Shop. I felt a rush of excitement whenever I saw something I recognized from the games or their community, Shadow Bonnie and the famous beatboxing meme being two standout examples. If I were to ask anything of Blumhouse and Scott Cawthon for the third movie, I hope it's that they put a bit more focus on developing the horror and making a story that feels natural.

Favorite moment: Mike (Josh Hutcherson) emulating the gameplay of the second game. It's a direct response to the first movie not having much representation of the first game, other than the animatronics, which I think was done incredibly well.

Acting: 6

Story: 7

Scariness: 2

Jaxx Lomax

As someone who is only a casual fan of the franchise, vaguely familiar with the lore, and who didn't get the chance to watch the first movie, I enjoyed this film way more than I expected. It's not a great movie, but I really liked it. I think it should be made for an older audience because the fans who grew up with it deserve that too. For what it is now, it's not too bad. My only issue with this film is the characterization. Mike was the worst part. Not because of his acting, but because of his character. His dialogue felt fake, and he seemed to blow simple problems out of proportion. Besides that, the characterization felt very forced.

Favorite Moment: I liked how the three ghost hunters died. I also like how Mike is in the office, and it's just like the game.

Acting: 6

Story: 8

Scariness: 6

Lex Allen

As someone who doesn't play the games, I still really enjoyed watching the movie. I liked the jump scares and the lore, but it felt like a part one waiting on a part two, and it ended awkwardly with a cliffhanger that felt a bit weird.

Favorite Moment: the original Five Nights at Freddy's animatronics reveal

Acting: 5

Story: 6

Scariness: 6

Mason Mundy

I found Five Nights at Freddy's 2 to be more entertaining than the first movie while also having significantly more issues. The pacing, especially when we get to the original Freddy's location, is a lot better than the first. The film felt more focused, and the plot was a bit stronger than the first. The tension and suspense in the horror moments were also very effective.

However, unlike the first movie, this movie had so many weird moments of writing and acting. Most actors did a fine to bad job, many of them overacting. The first act of the film was rough and had no real purpose, other than getting our characters to the new location. The ending of the film was also terrible. Deus ex machina so our characters live, inconsistent rulings, and weird character turns that completely 180s character development. While I enjoyed my time with this movie, it's hard for me to say I really liked it since it has so many issues that I can't ignore.

Favorite Moment: Hor hor hor hor hor plush

Acting: 3

Story: 6

Scariness: 6

Sam Jasionowski

Being a massive fan of the second game, the art of this film felt like a love letter to it. It's no surprise that the animatronics look amazing, but the set design deserves the praise as well. Any time a character sets foot into the pizzeria, it feels like they're stepping into the actual game, making it an incredible experience for the audience. The film was at its best anytime an animatronic was on screen. They look identical to the game, feel creepy, and each version has its own personality that differentiates them. It was perfect. While the horror aspect could have been better, the bar was pretty low for a PG-13-rated film.

Unfortunately, the acting stuck out like a sore thumb in the film. Josh Hutcherson and Matthew Lillard acted laps around most of the actors, feeling as though they were in separate films altogether. In the first act of the film, it felt like all of the actors were told to speak every word with a long pause in between, feeling highly unnatural as a viewer. Most of the main characters seem slightly underdeveloped, and the side characters just didn't feel like real humans at all. It felt like the writers could only come up with the story of the animatronics, and couldn't be bothered to create an interesting side plot.

Favorite Moment: Mike sitting down in the security room for the first time, and the film switching to the first-person point of view, revealing an exact replica of the Five Nights at Freddy's 2 security room.

Acting: 4

Story: 7

Scariness: 6

Viveka Flora

Don't listen to the critics, because if you liked the first movie, you will enjoy this one just as much. Five Nights at Freddy's 2 accomplishes what many film franchises fail to, which is keeping the same spark of the first movie. As a major fan of the games myself, I was delighted by all of the easter eggs and new character appearances. Not to mention, the design of the animatronics-the toys and the withereds-knocked it out of the park once again. They definitely upped the horror aspect as well. The tension and the few deaths we got were well executed, much more than the first movie. While I could talk about the good aspects of the film forever, it's important to mention that there are a lot of things that weren't great.

Five Nights at Freddy's is a big franchise, and because of this, some parts of the movie that were integral to the story weren't able to be built upon properly because of time constraints. It was kind of just one thing onto the next, with no time to process any character development or subplots that weren't the main focus. A lot of moments had me laughing out loud just because of how bad it was. This isn't necessarily a bad thing for me, as it was delightful to just giggle at these moments, but some may feel they ruin the movie. Another thing that I wasn't happy with was the line distribution and character appearances. Some characters didn't get the screen time or lines that they deserved, like Toy Freddy (Kellen Goff) and the Cupcake. All grievances aside, the experience was incredibly enjoyable, and I can't wait for the next movie.

Favorite moment: When Vanessa shouted at Michael Afton (Freddy Carter), saying, "This isn't a game, Michael!" Absolute cinema line right here.

Acting: 6

Story: 8

Scariness: 7

Willow Emig

Five Nights at Freddy's 2 was an enjoyable viewing experience if you already have a concept of the Five Nights at Freddy's games and the lore that is behind them. Without this background knowledge, the movie doesn't hold up on its own. The side plots are pretty underdeveloped, and the narrative cliches in characterization are not tasteful. The movie appeals to fans of the games and clearly does not make much of an effort to go beyond that. It's a fun movie that can get genuinely creepy at times, but I personally would not watch it a second time.

Favorite Moment: This isn't necessarily a specific moment, but I thought that the animatronics, as well as the creepiness of the puppet in its various forms, were really well done.

Acting: 5

Story: 6

Scariness: 6

Sources: Steam, IMDb, IMDb, IMDb, IMDb, IMDb,JimHensonCreatureShop, Blumhouse, IMDb, Steam, IMDb, IMDb

Image: Blumhouse

As a fourth-year and a first-generation college student, looking back on my experience at Ball State feels like seeing a map of growth. While I am ready to start a new chapter, I cannot help but feel so grateful for this campus, the great people I have met and the even greater experiences I have had here.

Admittedly, Ball State was not my first choice among my college acceptances. However, the challenge of being an out-of-state student and knowing no one in Muncie pushed me to be open in a way I never would have been otherwise.

It forced me to actively craft the college experience I wanted. I became an RA, joined an a cappella group, served on two executive boards, completed a valuable internship, studied abroad and, most importantly, made amazing, lifelong friendships and professional connections.

This is my advice to pass on to you, whether you are just starting the journey or approaching the finish line.

Do not be afraid to pivot. The earlier you realize your current path is not sustainable or exciting, the better. If your major is not something you love, find something else that is right for you. Time is your most precious resource.

Do not let the fear of changing a schedule or disappointing your family - or even worse, yourself - keep you on a track that dulls your passion. Going from news journalism to legal studies was the best thing for me. Realizing that a shift was necessary was the first step toward building the professional skillset I truly needed.

Try to talk to everyone. Professors, guest speakers, dining hall workers, people outside of your industry or even that person you sit next to every day in your 10 a.m. class. The cliché is that "it is not about what you know, it is about who you know," but the truth is, it is about who knows you and can vouch for your work ethic.

If you want that internship, set up a Zoom call with the director or grab coffee with the person you know who completed it last summer. Want a letter of recommendation for the future? Start going to your professor's office hours and actively participating in class. This was a massive one for me as a legal studies major.

Your professors are the ones who can speak to your academic rigor, attest to your character and connect you with jobs, attorneys, companies or whatever it is you are seeking. Networking is going to be your best friend, without a doubt.

Not to mention, side quests are the main event. Yes, you are here to get an education, and that is your top priority. But utilize your free will. College offers a buffet of low-stakes opportunities, like clubs, trips and volunteer roles that will not be as easily accessible later. The "side quests" keep life fun and teach you soft skills in ways a lecture never can.

Ball State did not just give me knowledge; it gave me the confidence to trust my gut and figure things out when my original plan fell apart. That ability to adapt is what truly prepared me for life after graduation.

After graduation, I plan to complete my final law school applications and start my law school journey in fall 2026. I am very interested in all things policy, social justice and business, and I know law school will be the perfect place to expand my knowledge and advocacy skills.

It was not my original plan to graduate early, so I am open to all opportunities that come my way during my "gap" semester, and I trust in God's plan for my life. Whether that be an internship, traveling or just going back home to Cincinnati, I know that the critical thinking, ethical framework and community-building skills I gained at Ball State will be the foundation of my career. I have become a more critical thinker and a more compassionate person, ready to contribute positively to society.

Put yourself out there. Try everything. Be fully present. College is truly the most unique experience. You will never get this time again, be this age again or have all your people and these resources in such close proximity again.

It does go by so fast, and the memories you make and the connections you forge outside the classroom are what will ultimately define your time here. Go for it. Your future self will thank you.

Contact Paris Enninful via email at paris.enninful@bsu.edu.

My decision to accept the offer to attend Ball State University was somewhat unexpected. At the time, I was not entirely sure why I chose this school. It was only after four years of being here that I truly realized the remarkable qualities that make Ball State so special. Each year, the campus shines a little brighter and the sense of community grows stronger.

With that in mind, I would like to offer a few pieces of advice to incoming students. For starters, do not be afraid to engage with new people when you arrive on campus. At first glance, everyone may seem indifferent or appear uninterested in conversation, but in reality, most students are just as eager as you are to make friends and build meaningful connections.

You may need to step out of your comfort zone, but the reward is well worth the initial nerves. When I first arrived at Ball State, I felt so isolated that I tucked myself away in my dorm room and read the entire "Harry Potter" series from start to finish. But once I made the intentional effort to seek out friendships, I quickly found myself busier and happier than ever.

For those striving for academic success, especially in rigorous majors, make attending class a priority. In my experience, particularly within the science department, all the professors are exceptional educators with lively personalities.

Truly, it can be that simple: go to class, be present and put your phone away for that one hour. Consistent attendance and engaging with professors have been the most important factors contributing to my success at Ball State.

I encourage you to set goals that feel slightly unrealistic. Throughout your time here, you will discover that many goals that once felt out of reach are far more attainable than you imagined. Growth is limited when you only pursue what feels safe.

When I first started at Ball State, I had no clear direction. It was not until I committed to a larger, more ambitious goal that I found my way. I changed my major to biology/pre-med, and after four years, medical school no longer feels impossible - it feels achievable.

After graduation, I plan to apply to the Indiana University School of Medicine. This aspiration would not have been possible without the support of the incredible friends I have met, the guidance of dedicated professors and the decision to chase what once felt like an unrealistic goal.

If you hope to succeed here at Ball State, surround yourself with supportive people, make use of the faculty who want to see you grow and do not shy away from aiming high.

Contact Micah Hess via email at emm7334@gmail.com.

The announcement came in a statementvia Facebook.

"We've been blessed to meet so many incredible people and to share countless memories across generations of families," wrote The Rodriguez Family, owners of Casa Mexican Grill. "Thank you for welcoming us, supporting us and becoming a part of our story. Our time here has meant more to us than words can express. We wish nothing but the very best for this community and everyone in it," they wrote.

At this time, it is unclear why the establishment is closing, and no exact last day has been released.

This brief will be updated with more information as it becomes available.

Contact the Daily News via email at editor@bsudailynews.com.

However, it wasn't always that way.

According to a 2018 Pew Research Center article, print media dominated the news world up until the 21st century. Stories travelled by word of mouth or by ink, and although printing newspapers was slower than word of mouth, the information was preserved by doing so.

From the invention of movable clay type printing in China in 1041 to the invention of the World Wide Web in 1991, media and modes of communication have changed drastically throughout human history.

This time period has been coined as "The Digital Revolution," and followed the shift from print news to digital news as a primary form of communication.

Since the 1990s Digital Revolution, not many people still read physical newspapers or magazines. U.S. newspaper circulation reached its lowest level of production since 1940 in 2018, continuing to decrease steadily through 2022, according to Pew Research Center.

Print media is still relevant, though it now serves a different purpose, acting as an archive of information.

Dr. Martin Smith-Rodden, an associate teaching professor in the School of Journalism and Strategic Communication at Ball State University, has worked in the field of media since 1980. He has worked in many different locations throughout his career, including 29 years at The Virginian-Pilot newspaper.

Martin worked at The Pilot until 2015 as a photographer, including the last decade there as a photo editor. Martin explained that those last 10 years were also the time when the organization was moving from a "traditional print newspaper paradigm to a digital-first paradigm."

Martin said the organization was geared predominantly toward online news, stating that they put out the physical newspaper "almost as an afterthought."

The switch from print media to digital was very gradual, he recounted. There was no big "lightbulb moment" when he realized that times were changing, but he did notice the differences.

"When these changes happen, it tends not to be instantaneous. It might feel instantaneous when we look back on it, and we give it really cute names like 'The Digital Revolution,'" Martin said.

Martin stated that his organization "certainly talked about the pace of change." He added that within an organization, those sorts of changes spark lots of internal conversations, both formal and informal.

Other issues came with a switching paradigm, as well. Martin explained that his particular news organization had two different subdivisions, one exclusively concentrated on the print product and the other exclusively concentrated on the online product.

"Being a business and being a bureaucracy, those two silos did not talk to each other very well," he said. "They were almost in competition, which sometimes happens, and that was an area of dysfunction that was sustained for several years."

Martin noted that he was open to the evolving modes of media, while some others around him weren't quite as keen.

"I've never been someone to be hung up on change, but there's a lot to like about print, with the elements and opportunities for design and presentation," Martin said. "It is natural for humans to be nostalgic for the technology and workflows that they learned during their formative years."

The switch from print media to digital caused strong feelings across the media landscape, but evidently, not all were negative.

Keith Roysdon, a journalist of almost 50 years, published his first article as a high school student in 1977 and began work for the Muncie Star Press fresh out of high school. He then later went on to work for the Knoxville Sentinel newspaper. Keith said that throughout his time working in media, the transition from print journalism to online publishing was "probably the biggest change in any of our lifetimes" when it came to modes of communication.

Even though Keith's beginnings were founded in print, he prefers the practicality of digital publishing.

"There are people who think we should have never gone online and miss the days of print so much. I understand that, but you can't look back; you need to move forward," Keith said. "You need to give people what they want, and there has never been a greater demand for news and information than there is now."

As both Martin and Keith said, print media isn't necessarily used in day-to-day life anymore, now finding its place and purpose in history.

Lindsey Vesperry, digital and physical records archivist in the Bracken Library Archives and Special Collections department, said digital pieces aren't always easy to recover.

"I think people always kind of have the assumption that digital will last longer, and that is actually not true," Lindsey said. "The web and born-digital media are a lot more ephemeral than we realize."

On paper, as explained by Lindsey, it may seem like, since the internet is so all-encompassing, it would be easy to find just about anything. However, finding the content isn't the issue.

"We could, for example, get a donation from someone who might have made a Microsoft Word document in the 1980s," she said. "There might be a chance we can't even open that document anymore because new versions of Microsoft Word can't recognize it."

Lindsey said media that is only published online with no physical content is harder to archive. Print media offers a unique preservability that something intangible does not. She added that preservation has become more difficult as manuscripts are made with less care, as technological developments like the printing press increased production rates.

She explained that up until the industrial era, literacy rates were very low. People who could read were the clergy or aristocracy, so books at the time were also very expensive. The work was considered difficult, as all the pages had to be done by hand, by scribes.

Lindsey explained that the mold was broken with the Industrial Revolution and the creation of paper. Paper was a lot cheaper than the materials previously used, but the automation of paper creation also helped. This was not without drawbacks, though.

"The automation made things that were not really meant to last," said Lindsey. "With newspapers, you read it for a day and you toss it out."

As explained by Lindsey, the short lifespan of newspapers is very characteristic of an ever-changing world, as there are always new stories to be told. There is charm to creating a newspaper in a rush, and it's something adored by many journalists.

Keith explained that he understands the appeal of a newsroom rush. He recounted a pre-digital age plane crash in Muncie, and used his experience of covering that event as an example for a news race.

"We had to get there fast. But we also had to be fast in doing a couple of quick interviews," he said. "At the time, we had to get on the phone back to somebody in the newsroom, and they would start adding to the story."

Keith explained that this process was necessary in order to get an article done by the end of the day. He also added that a side effect of the changed times is that deadlines are earlier now than they were "back then" because papers are printed further away.

There are pros and cons to printed media and digital media alike, and as times evolve, a common concern is that print news will cease to exist entirely. However, Lindsey said, humans are more adaptable than we're credited for.

Lindsey explained that news, just like everything else, evolves with the times, and she is optimistic for the future.

"I understand cutting print news, practically speaking. I think it might be a bit harder [in a sense of archiving]," said Lindsey. "But I will say I have a lot of faith in how students and young people can evolve to understand the new concepts around them."

This article is a part of Ball Bearings Fall 2025 magazine: The Archival Edition. Read more stories online at ballbearingsmag.com and pick up the print edition of the magazine across Ball State's campus now.

Tea, Sones, and Not Your Grandmother's Needlepoint

Begin your afternoon on the 3rd floor, discovering fascinating insights into the art of needlepoint. Then, make your way down to the first floor to savor a delightful afternoon tea in the elegant Ball Family manson. Along the way, guests can explore all three floors adorned in festive holiday décor and admire the stunning collection of needlepoint pieces showcased in the living room.

• Price: Free
• Location: E.B. and Bertha C. Ball Center
• Date and Time: Tuesday, December 9 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Threads of Home: The Voices Behind the Art

What makes a place feel like home? For many immigrant families in East Central Indiana, it's the textiles they carried, created, and passed down through generations - woven, embroidered, or stitched with stories. Local metalsmith Jessica Calderwood has transformed those stories into striking enameled copper plates for her new exhibition, Threads of Home. Pre-registration is preferred.

• Price: $25 | Member Discounts Apply
• Location: Minnetrista Museum & Gardens
• Date and Time: Wednesday, December 10 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

IPR Radio Drama: It's a Wonderful Life

This Lux Radio Theatre adaption of It's a Wonderful Life is a heartwarming radio drama based on Frank Capra's classic story. Condensed into an hour, the production features rich narration, live sound effects, and expressive performances to tell the story of George Bailey - a man who, feeling overwhelmed by life's burdens, is shown by his guardian angel how profoundly he has touched the lives of others.

• Price: $15 General | $5 Student
• Location: Sursa Performance Hall
• Date and Time: Wednesday, December 11 from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

BFA Studio Art Senior Capstone Exhibition

Graduating seniors earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art will showcase their work in a range of media, including ceramics, drawing, glass, metals and jewelry, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, and video.

• Price: Free
• Location: Ned and Gloria Grinder Art Gallery
• Date and Time: Thursday, December 12 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Gingerbread House Workshop

Spend a delightful afternoon creating memories - and gingerbread houses - with your family! Everything you need will be provided. Enjoy cocoa and cookies as you work, and keep an eye out for a special visit grom Gingy the Gingerbread Man. Pre-registration is strongly preferred.

• Price: $38/ House | Member Discounts Apply
• Location: Minnetrista Museum & gardens
• Date and Time: Friday, December 13 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Thinking back on my college experience shows me how these past three and a half years have been the most eventful of my life. College has not only given me so many new experiences, but it has also taught me so many lessons that have helped shape me into who I am today.

To me, going to college was scary. I had felt completely unprepared and felt as if I was walking into this new world that I had only heard about through movies and word of mouth. I wish I had a cheat sheet to help me be more prepared for not only going into college, but also navigating each year that followed.

I think the main thing that I would advise to anyone going into college or those currently enrolled would be to get involved, whether that be a club, study sessions or just making friends. My college experience would be completely different if I had not met the friends that I have found at Ball State.

While I did not come to college to improve my social life, that area of my life has excelled so much during my time here. Dorm life was a world-changing time for me. It was through living in the dorms that I met my best friends. Not only that, but I met so many new people by exploring different activities that were offered around campus.

However, one of my biggest regrets was not getting more involved on campus. I only just recently got involved with the Ball State Bridge Club - mostly for my love of thought-provoking conversations - but I still wish I had gotten involved sooner.

This campus offers so many different clubs and activities that can help students get involved and build connections. If you were to listen to any advice I would give you, it would be to take advantage of those opportunities.

Something that I did get involved in, however briefly, was sorority life. During my first year on campus, I learned that one of the friends I met on my dorm floor was a part of a sorority. With the support of my brother - who was in a fraternity during college - I ended up joining a sorority through COB, which happens near the end of the year rather than formal recruitment at the start of the semester.

In the end, I found out that sorority life was not for me, but I am still so grateful that I tried it. One thing I would recommend is to try things out, even if you are unsure at first. While I did not stay in the sorority, I would have regretted it if I had not at least tried it. And through that sorority, I still made lasting friendships and experiences.

Overall, college has been the most positive experience of my life. I not only love Ball State, but I love the people who are a part of it. Looking at the psychology department alone, the staff are some amazing, extremely talented and helpful people. If you are a part of the psychology department, I encourage you to talk and get to know your professors.

Dr. Johnathan Forbey, Dr. Lauren Mathieu-Frasier and Dr. Vicente Diaz have been some of my favorite professors. They have not only shown me their true passion and understanding of psychological science, but they have also inspired me to stay passionate about the field.

I hope you find this helpful and inspiring. Because if I had to offer a final word of advice, it would be to enjoy your life in college. It will fly by you before you even know it.

Contact Brynn Peifer via email at brynn.peifer@bsu.edu.

Visitors who embarked on the free, community light walk event could enjoy the crisp temperatures by sipping cocoa, hot cider or stepping inside The Orchard Shop and Minnetrista Museum space to meet with an array of local business vendors who were eager to sell their unique crafts or homemade goods to those looking for the perfect stocking stuffer or holiday gift.

Erica Markley of Markley Farm Glassworks said 2025 marks her fourth year as a vendor at the Enchanted Luminaria Walk, and she keeps returning because of the event's "liveliness."

"It brings everybody together. It provides a sense of joy and excitement, it's free-and I think that that matters," Markley said.

Other returning vendors, like Madelyn Heskett of Made by Madelyn, agreed that the event's no-cost policy was beneficial for foot traffic.

"This, specifically, benefits the community, because it's a free event-and a lot of our things that happen around Delaware County have a cost-and so I think that makes this more accessible to everyone, and lets kids and families experience lots of different things that they may not experience regularly," she said.

The Luminaria Walk is something Heskett said she looks forward to year-round.

"This is one of my favorite events of the year, because I see the whole community come out, there are activities for everyone, and I think it's a nice spot to highlight all of our different artwork in one place," she said.

Heskett's fused glass business grew out of a generational appreciation for the craft that she shared with her grandmother, a fused glass artist in Arizona.

"Over time, I learned from her, and then in 2021 I started my own business and started actually making things here in Indiana," she said.

The event also welcomed a slew of families, friends, and Ball State students. Some were honoring generational tradition by attending the event, but others, like Ball State students Ava Pavich and Seth Blossom, were first-timers.

"Some of my roommates saw it on Facebook, so we decided to come," Pavich, a third-year nursing major, said. "It's nice because it gives everyone something to do-especially in Muncie-there's not a whole bunch."

The pair said the event met their expectations and was full of surprises-like hot chocolate.

"Christmas time is a time of giving, so it's kind of nice to have Muncie give back to the community a little bit and organize this," Blossom, a third-year construction management major, said.

The Enchanted Luminaria Walk was a two-night-only event, running through Dec. 6. However, Minnetrista Museums and Gardens has many more events planned for the holiday season. Those interested in learning more can visit Minnetrista's calendar of upcoming events.

Contact Katherine Hill via email at katherine.hill@bsu.edu.

Hosted by: Chris Dawson, Jaxx Lomax, Ian Fraser, Ash Weir

Edited by: Ian Fraser

Graphic by: Chris Dawson

After a game, there is still stuff to do, but when they are dismissed for the final time, it gets real, quick.

Uremovich said seeing the empty row in the back of the room will be a physical realization for the program that a group of guys is now simply gone.

The Cardinals were 4-8 in their first season under Uremovich, going 3-5 in the Mid-American Conference (MAC) and finishing the 2025 season 0-7 on the road. He said he learned that it is possible to win and recruit at Ball State based on the results of 2025.

Uremovich said it is always hard at the end of a season because there is so much work that goes into playing a full season. Uremovich said it is frankly disappointing.

"We didn't get to accomplish some of the things that I hoped we could do for them, things that I know we're going to do as a program, but I wanted that to happen now. I didn't want to wait," Uremovich said.

The head coach was welcomed into Ball State athletics just over a year ago to the day, and he said he has the same excitement he does for the future of the program as he did a year ago.

Uremovich said the Cardinals will address every single aspect of the program in the offseason, from coaching, recruiting, conditioning and more.

Bottom line, Uremovich wants improvement all around for 2026.

With the transfer portal open, Uremovich said Ball State is currently hyper-focused on recruitment in building the 2026 roster.

"Recruiting never stops, but at the end of the season, it kind of speeds up," Uremovich said.

The incoming class will be the first true recruiting cycle for the Cardinals. Uremovich said he is very encouraged about the incoming class.

Ball State just signed 15 high school athletes a few days ago on National Signing Day.

Although the Cardinals have signed 15 incoming freshmen, Ball State has already lost numerous players to the transfer portal. Starters who have decided to transfer include defensive end Darin Conley, wide receiver Eric Weatherly, running back Qua Ashley and linebacker Ashton Whitner, just to name a few.

Before the transfer portal, Uremovich said he always talked to players about what their role could look like within any program. He said that still goes on, but with the transfer portal, they can now leave at any time.

He said you cannot do anything about it but work in the environment you are provided.

And the transfer portal is the environment all collegiate athletic programs are currently in.

"I will not talk anybody into staying here; they've got to want to play football here," Uremovich said.

Uremovich said there is a real excitement around Ball State currently for recruits. He said they have shown that underclassmen can get on the field early, and they have also shown that transfers can come into the program and shine. The head coach specifically pointed to recently graduated defensive end Nathan Voorhis as someone who transferred in and raised his draft stock.

"There are very few places in America to have a better opportunity," Uremovich said.

Uremovich said he is optimistic about the younger classmen stepping into bigger roles in 2026. He said just because they were not on the field, it does not mean they were not working. He cited weight room improvements and practice development as strong suits heading into next season.

The Cardinals' job is to improve at every single position in 2026, Uremovich said.

"Our job as coaches is to get the best players we can possibly get at Ball State," Uremovich said. "The message, and they've heard it from me before, is that their goal is to develop and get as good as they can be, and my goal is to go out and try to find somebody that can take their job, because it's my job to get the best product on the field.

"We'll go into the spring, like we will every spring, and try to find our best 22 players to play."

Uremovich said he is not going to rush into the X's and O's of the Cardinals but will make those adjustments in February when the staff goes through every single play of the season.

He made an emphasis to pinpoint Ball State's road-game issues heading into 2026 as well.

The head coach said there are a million reasons for not playing well on the road, but it is the Ball State staff's job to figure that out ASAP.

Uremovich said there are a lot of things, too long to name, that have already changed within the program. He said it is obvious to see change on the field, but it has been the off-the-field changes that really matter within a program in only its first season under a new regime.

Above all, Uremovich brims with confidence.

He said he has seen the administration and athletic director Jeff Mitchell buy into what Ball State football is doing. He said he has seen the community and students show support for the Cardinals. And all that matters to Uremovich.

"It doesn't happen overnight, and we all want it right now, but there are no shortcuts," Uremovich said. "Sometimes you've got to go through some really hard things to accomplish what you want. We did some of that this year, and we'll be better for it."

Contact Elijah Poe via email at elijah.poe@bsu.edu or on X @ElijahPoe4

As she sits down beside her most precious paintbrushes, drawing tools and digital tablet, Annie Wright decides what artistic mindset she wants to escape to, sometimes animals, landscape or family. Comic art, however, rarely fails to draw her in.

From picking up her first comic book in elementary school to winning a Ringo Award, Wright, a fourth-year Ball State student, will graduate with the university's 2026 spring graduation class.

Wright, an illustration major, said she has been interested in art since she was a toddler, and that she was always inspired by her mother's paintings growing up.

"At my [elementary] school library, I was drawn to the comics section. Although I knew how beneficial they are, I never picked up any books without pictures or art," Wright said via email.

From that point on, she said she knew illustration and comics were things she wanted to pursue professionally.

"I first read the 'Bone' series by Jeff Smith when I was in the fourth grade, and it opened my mind to a kind of art form I was interested in," Wright said. "I always want my art to tell some kind of story, even now, and reading comics not only taught me how they work, but why they're so important."

She said she became much more involved in drawing when she got to high school. Both art classes and clubs became part of her routine, where she got to meet other art students and served as the art club's vice president for some time.

Having lived not too far from Ball State's campus when she was in grade school, Wright said she would come to weekend classes at the campus's Art and Journalism Building when she was just a child, which became part of the reason why Ball State had always been her top choice.

"Ball State was always the plan for me. I've lived a few minutes away off campus my entire life, and knew the art program was one to be proud of. I was already familiar with the environment. It was a perfect fit for me!" Wright said.

When Wright first enrolled in Ball State's art program, she initially wanted to focus on comic art, and only comic art. She said it was not until after she continued taking more classes that she expanded into other art media.

Not only did the art classes at Ball State help Wright tap into other art forms, but her peers and professors also guided her through her journey, providing inspiration, motivation and skill.

"So many professors and fellow students have guided me through so many struggles and challenges. I truly couldn't have done what I do without them," Wright said. "I feel like I've really been pushed into the right direction by these talented artists."

One professor who really helped Wright, specifically with motivation and inspiration, was Audrey Barcio, an assistant professor in Ball State's art program.

"Annie has passion, grit and determination, all markers for a successful artistic path ahead. The markers of a great artist are the same markers for a successful college experience," Barcio said via email. "Annie also brings lots of helpful advice and support to their classmates during critiques and day-to-day interactions and understands the importance of community in addition to hard work."

When it comes to seeking inspiration and overcoming artist's block, Wright said she turns to artifacts such as animated films and television shows, her favorite manga artists and more.

Sometimes, however, it is just about getting past the block.

"When art block hits, push through. It's what gets me through it. Even when I hate that I'm drawing or I wish I could just get something right, I just make sure the general idea is down," Wright said.

Just less than two months before graduation, Wright received an award at the Ringo Comic Book Awards for "Best New Talent," along with one of her artworks, a comic titled "Jane American" written by Jason Douglas, winning "Best Original Graphic Novel."

"I was certainly very pleased with the outcome. I truly didn't expect it because there were so many wonderful and talented artists who were nominated and present. I'm very appreciative of the moment and am excited to see what I do next," Wright said.

As of now, Wright's favorite piece of her artwork is a portrait of her favorite celebrity, Ryan Gosling. She chose to illustrate him for the portrait after being inspired by his performance and energy in the 2023 film, "Barbie."

Wright said she plans to continue her pathway in illustration and comics after graduation, while also exploring other forms of art she has taken an interest in, such as picture books and concept art.

Wright said assistant art professor John Ludwick was also somebody at the university who significantly supported her and helped her explore other art mediums.

"Going to college to learn art represents multiples of money, time, attention, plus your soul," Ludwick said. "You pour your feelings into moving characters, a painting, a story, a sculpture, and that can be uncomfortable, but being honest and revealing truths is what attracts audiences to what we do. Annie fulfills those monumental checkboxes. Annie always brings it."

Contact Gracie Parkhurst via email at gracie.parkhurst@bsu.edu.