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Show For pictures of the birds of prey showcased at the Dixie forum on Tuesday, check out the Dixie Suns Facebook page. BY LAUREN DAVISON Staff Writer j possible to keep the flu virus from spreading around campus. The flu may not be a major concern of many Dixie State University students, but after three deaths during this flu season in southern Utah, perhaps it should be. According to the Southwest Utah Public Health Department, there have been deaths and three 33 hospitalizations in southern Utah. The victims were all under tire age of 64. Dr. David BJodgett, from the Southwest Utah Public Health, told KSL.com, "They're younger than we traditionally see in flu deaths. All of them are younger than 64. Usually, that age range is not where we see any of the deaths. It's also true that they were fairly healthy." DSU's custodial staff is taking precautions to ensure a clean and healthy campus during the flu season. Custodial Supervisor Paul Whit-latc- h said he puts students' safety and well being first. In fact, it's his motto. "The safety of the students is the biggest priority," Whit-latc- h said. "My own daughter is a student here, so I really flu-relat- ed do care." Whitlatch said the custodial staff is doing everything "We're being more diligent," Whitlatch said. "We are using hospital-grad- e disinfectant. We are cleaning door handles, door windows, desks and chairs every single night." Whitlatch said because of the lack of serious cases at DSU, he believes the flu virus has been well controlled. "We are letting the disinfectant sit longer to make sure it kills all germs," Whitlatch said. "We disinfect every day, but make sure to wash your hands after every class. Our soap has moisturizers in it so it won't dry out your skin." The Health and Wellness Center has had just two or three students come in to seek treatment for the flu this season, said Shauna Zundel, a registered nurse at the Health and Wellness Center. However, Zundel warns that students are more susceptible to the flu because of the close quarters of the university. "The flu hits different people differently," Zundel said. "If you have a fever or pain, nausea, vomiting, or feel like you're getting worse, you should see a doctor. Dehydration can be serious, and a high fever can make Multiple deaths in Utah and the surrounding area have caused the custodial staff to be on high alert for the flu this season. Students should consult the Health and Wellness Center with any inquiries they may have about the flu virus. dehydration more likely." DSU students can utilize the Health and Wellness Center with or without insurance. Each visit is $10. Students to can call make an appointment. Students like Ricardo Robles, a freshman business major from Mesquite, Nev., are lethargic about the ex- treme flu cases and don't fear catching it. "I don't think students are afraid of getting the flu," Robles said. "I don't really pay attention to that kind of stuff, but maybe I should be more concerned." Adam Witt, a junior com munication major from St. George, is not worried about coming down with the flu, either. "I haven't had the flu since childhood," Witt said. "So it just doesn't hit my priority list." Zundel recommends everyone get a flu shot, keep up with immunizations, and be aware of the condition of his or her health. "Remember when you're sick you can get others ill,'' Zundel said. "Be conscious of your neighbor. I know tough to be sick to first wei of school, but come in and we'll help." it's I Dixie forum: live birds of prey showcased to patrons at BY EMILY BILLS News Editor The Dixie Forum: A Window on the World continued Tuesday in the Dunford Auditorium with a presentation of birds of prey, showcased by HawkWatch International. HawkWatch International, a liit censed, organization based out of Salt Lake City, preserves different types of raptors that have been injured to the point where they cannot hunt, fly or sustain themselves in the wild. HawkWatch International was founded in 1986 to study migration routes in Utah. The first bird showcased was a male d hawk. Winston Brundige, an experienced volunteer, opened up the cage, held the raptor, and explained his unique features. Brundige said he helps care for five birds, but he non-prof- red-taile- EVALUATION continued from page 1 differ from acknowledgthe value of diversity ing to discipline-specifi- c ones DSU, in its second year of the process after the 2012 evaluation, has assigned staff members various roles that deal with accreditation. Academic assessment director Assunta Hardy said she helps different departments track their efforts through evaluations. In order to analyze the effectiveness of set objectives in courses, staff must make documentation a priority, she said. In addition to meeting goals, Bryant said those stepping-stone- s often change. DSU expects to gain two more soon. Staff member Janet Hutchenson said' her love for wildlife and birds stems from her grandparents and the time she spent outdoors as a child. I love what Im doing, Hutchenson said. Hutchenson pulled out the female hawk and explained the differences between the two birds. She stepped closer to the front row so the patrons could get a better look at her feathers, eyes and talons. HawkWatch International strives to understand whats happening with the birds by studying patterns rather than quickly coming up with answers, Hutchenson said. Hutchenson and Brundige will showcase the two birds once again at the St. George Winter Bird Festival Jan. 23 in the Tonaquint Nature Center. Objectives created in the first year or two of accreditation may not lead to the progression wanted. Bryant said departments sometimes make objectives more challenging during the process to expect the most out of students and staff. The concept is continuous improvement, she said. Were not just going to stay here where we are; were going to get better. Accreditation efforts assure students the education acquired at DSU means they can transfer to other universities or apply for jobs and entities will acknowledge their completed coursework. But students can also find crucial, basic information through accreditation: what they can expect to learn while at DSU. Hardy said by keeping track of course objectives often listed on class syllabuses students will gain knowledge about what they should learn and how that can assist them. If students keep track of the process, staff should take accreditation more seriously too, she said The NWCCU met this month, and members discussed whether to reaffirm DSU for the next seven years. As the Sun went to press, Bryant said she hadnt received the official word but hopes to soon. You can find more information about accreditation effort at DSUs website undd General Information. |