The Revival of The Alvernia Campus Show
Braden Livingston Contributing Writer
Alvernia University’s Campus Show has returned for the first time in nearly a decade. On February 22, the first episode of The Alvernia Campus Show was released on YouTube and on BCTV. The Campus Show is for the whole Alvernia community and is a fun and helpful way to learn about upcoming school and sport events happening at Alvernia. The show also provides local and national news in a more comedic and relaxed style compared to your average news station.
How to Join the Show
The Alvernia Campus Show is produced by the students of COM 333, “The Campus Show: Television Production.” The class and show are run and directed by Chris Shipley. The main purpose of this class is to produce programming for the university to help students learn more around the Alvernia community. Producing the show helps students learn all the
different steps and jobs required to make and manage a show. The course also helps students learn how to work as a team, generate creative ideas, and cooperate on a complex project.
Chris Shipley, assistant professor of communication, said the class is very helpful for students who want to get production experience.
“Other than taking a class that isn’t just sitting in a classroom,” he said, “You get experience in working on a television show. You aren’t just showing up to a class, you are showing up to a job.”
Every episode follows a 4-segment structure. The show opens with the two main anchors giving a rundown on recent local and national news. Once that segment finishes, they switch over to the sports segment, starting with the Golden Wolf Rundown. Once the Alvernia sports update is complete, the next segment is Off the Bench which is a threeperson roundtable discussing the latest news and drama with one of the major sports in America.
Once the sports section is over, the third segment is A Moment With… where they interview either a student, staff, club, or sport’s team to introduce them to the Alvernia community and talk about their current activities. The final segment wraps up the show, with the two main anchors returning to give a run-down of upcoming events for the following week.
The Alvernia Campus Show is uploaded to the Alvernia Campus Show YouTube Channel. The episodes are uploaded every Friday around 12 p.m. You can also check out the Alvernia Campus Show Instagram, which is where you can see sneak peeks and behind the scenes photos of the show.
The Oscars 2025: Are They Still Relevant?
Amelia Fortunato Contributing Writer
The 97th Academy Awards, better known as The Oscars, took place on March 2, 2025.
The Oscars are a night to celebrate achievements in film, with a wide array of celebrities attending. This year, some of the winners included Mikey Madison for best actress for “Anora,” Adrien Brody for best actor for “The Brutalist,” and Sean Baker for best director for “Anora.” Ultimately, “Anora” seemed to be the big winner of the night. “Anora” tells the story of a young sex worker who marries the son of a Russian oligarch until the parents of said oligarch find out and work to annul the marriage.
Some have wondered if the Oscars are still relevant.
According to Statista, the last time the awards ceremony had a U.S. audience of more than 40 million was back in 2014. However, according to MSN, the 2025 Oscars had a
five-year high for viewership with over 19 million viewers.
Dr. Kris Lowrey, assistant professor of communication, teaches a Film Appreciation class at Alvernia. Dr. Lowrey is familiar with the patterns of students regarding the Oscars. “I think [the students] might be tuned in more to the results than they are to actually sitting down and watching the event,” Lowrey said.
The fall in student viewership could be due to the rise of social media over the past few years, making it so students can learn the winners and see recordings of speeches without watching the event live. In contrast, Hector Malave, a junior double majoring in communication and theatre, believes that people still watch the Oscars.
“There’s going to be plenty of people watching it,” Malave said.
While the Oscars may be getting fewer viewers, they are still a measure of what
the film industry thinks is important to recognize. “Overall, I think it can be a nice opportunity to just kind of reflect on the state of the industry,” Dr. Lowrey said.
While the Oscars themselves may have declining live viewership, many find that the awards show is still meaningful. “I think the Oscars are still relevant,” Malave said, who went on to passionately discuss the nominated films. Still, the best days of award shows may be behind us. “I think [Oscar viewers] are generally aging [and not being replaced by younger viewers],” Dr. Lowrey said, but noted that people remain interested in the results.
Do you watch the Oscars? Let us know on our instagram! @thealvernian
Photo by Braden Livingston. Showcasing Trevor Spollen (Left), and Kyle Rudart (Right) preparing to anchor for the second episode of The Alvernia Campus Show. Photo by Braden Livingston. Showcasing Trevor Spollen (Left), and Kyle Rudart (Right) preparing to anchor for the second episode of The Alvernia Campus Show.
Hector Malave, a jounior double majoring in communications and theater, sits on a stool in the Francis Hall Theatre as he discusses the Oscars animatedly.
Photo Courtesy of Amelia Fortunato
Movie Review
March/April 2025
the alvernian
Managing Editor/Layout
Grace Wanner
Section Editors
Cole Windsor
Alyssa Fiorelli
Jamie Pierce
Elizabeth Jones
Garrett Hunter
Aldriany Payano
Guilherme Tavares
Contributing Writers
Kenneth Miller
Joshua Dipini
Amelia Fortunato
Kayleigh Kehler
Lindsay Kerchner
Elayna Palm
Matthew Marchese
Faculty Advisor
Dr. Ryan Lange
The Alvernian is the official student newspaper of Alvernia University.
Articles submitted for consideration into The Alvernian should be written in some semblance of AP style. Letters to the editor, requests for advertisements, and general comments and questions may be submitted to ryan.lange@alvernia.edu.
The editors reserve the right to edit submissions for clarity, accuracy, and length.
The views expressed in The Alvernian are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the student body, faculty, staff, administration, or sponsors.
Captain America: Brave New World Review
Cole Windsor Contributing Editor
“Captain America: Brave New World” follows Sam Wilson as he investigates a terroristic mind controller trying to ruin the new US president, Thaddeus Ross. It’s an action-packed film utilizing many previous MCU films, trying to create a cohesive story, but falls a little flat.
“I wasn’t looking for an Oscar-winning film, just a fun superhero movie that entertained for 2 hours,” Mike Windsor, Berks County resident said. “Captain America delivered fun, action a few twists, and a good overall experience.”
The main issue with this film is its attempt to connect with the overarching story of the MCU. The film begins with Thaddeus Ross being elected President of the United States. Thaddeus Ross first appeared in 2008 in “The Incredible Hulk,” played by William Hurt, but is now
played by Harrison Ford. Along with Thaddeus, the main antagonist of “Captain America: Brave New World” is also from “The Incredible Hulk.” The two decades between these films make it difficult for a casual audience to make those connections.
“My biggest gripe is that I feel that the main villain could have been incorporated into the story better,” Bryan Evans, @heroes.refuge on tiktok, said. “It is definitely noticeable that the film was reshot because it feels as if there are missing scenes of
the main villain. The villain is shown so little to the point he feels like a side character.”
Another main conflict is around Celestial Island, a dead Celestial from “Eternals” (2021). The Celestial is full of adamantium, a powerful metal every country wants. The area around Celestial Island is full of different countries’ militaries, trying to get a piece of the pie. “Eternals” is widely considered a flop among fans with significantly fewer viewers than other MCU films.
Because “Captain America: Brave New World” involves multiple lesser-known MCU films, it correctly assumes that much of the audience has not seen the related films. To make up for this, the film is packed with exposition. It begins with news anchors explaining the plot of previous films and continues the exposition when required later in the film.
“There are great concepts that aren’t really focused enough, which sucks,” TikTok creator @kenbones_comics said. “There’s moments that
really shine but immediately get shrugged over to spoonfeed the audience exposition.”
Another big issue is the Red Hulk reveal. Red Hulk’s appearance is the climax of the film, which would be a huge spoiler for me to say if it was not in every single trailer and the posters. While I understand that Red Hulk is great for marketing, I felt it would’ve been an amazing reveal, if it hadn’t
been spoiled before the film’s release.
After understanding the extensive background information, the story is compelling enough to take me on this investigative adventure with Captain America. Once the exposition is trudged through, it leads to a typical action-packed MCU film.
In typical MCU fashion, the action scenes are the
highlight of the film. The CGI on the wings for both Captain America and the new Falcon is very well done. The wings functioned realistically but were still crazy enough for a superhero film. The best scene in the film was the fight between Red Hulk and Captain America. Harrison Ford does a great job leading to the Red Hulk reveal, which makes for an awesome emotional battle between the
two of them.
“Captain America: A Brave New World” was an overall enjoyable experience. While the exposition did bog down the story, the plot and action were good enough to outweigh it. While this film did not blow my comic book fan mind, it was worth a watch. I would rate it 6/10.
Red Hulk raging in the final battle, Credits: Marvel/Disney
Captain America entering enemy lair. Credits: Marvel/Disney
Captain America: Brave New World Logo, Credits: Marvel/Disney
MaRch Madness
March/April 2025
Who Will Be Cutting Down The Net In San Antonio?
Garrett Hunter
Contributing Editor
As we head into spring, one of the most followed sporting events in the country begins. March Madness, the NCAA men’s and women’s basketball tournament will begin March 16. Prior to the start of this event, millions of Americans will be filling out their tournament brackets and making their picks on who will win it all.
The newly expanded 68 team tournament will feature the best basketball teams from each Division 1 conference in America. With powerhouse programs and underdogs, every year the tournament features a David vs. Goliath match or a Cinderella story run.
These groups of young men from across the country will be looking to cement their name in history and be the ones to cut down the net at the final dance April 5 through April 7 in San Antonio.
When filling out your
Jamie Pierce
Contributing Editor
The 2025 NCAA women’s basketball tournament begins on Wednesday, March 19. In recent years, the tournament has grown in popularity due to increased media coverage, more investment, and star players.
College players such as Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, Juju Watkins, and Angel Reese have captured the hearts of fans. The performance of these players has spread excitement for their upcoming games.
Alvernia women’s basketball coach Rayne deMarteleire enjoys watching these players and how they
brackets this year, there are some things to consider. A popular method used to pick the winner for your bracket is the KenPom Test.
The KenPom test is used to measure a team’s offensive and defensive efficiency based on the strength of their opponents. These rankings usually align with the national standings throughout the season.
The KenPom has been proven to be a useful tool to predict winners of the NCAA Tournament. Since 2001, 95% of the men’s tournament champions have been in the top 22 in offensive efficiency and 91% in the top 32 in Defensive efficiency.
As it stands right now, there are 10 teams that fit in the top 10 with both defensive and offensive efficiency Coincidentally enough, Las Vegas bookmakers have the top three teams on the KenPom Rankings as the favorites to win the National Championship, Duke, Auburn, and Houston.
Tim Hitchcock, a sophomore men’s baseball player for Alvernia University and an avid sports fan from Georgetown, Delaware. Tim gave his input on how information from the KenPom test can be a strategic method for those looking to fill out the perfect bracket He also helped answer an age-old question in the sports world
What matters more in winning a championship, defense or offense?
“When looking at basketball specifically, defense is what stands out the most,” Hitchcock said. “Offense is constant in this game and can come from contested or open opportunities. A good, organized defense can disrupt the flow of even the best shooting teams in the country. I definitely think the KenPom test is something those should look at before filling out their brackets.”
Defense is not usually looked at from a statistical standpoint in basketball. Most fans focus on the offense produced or attempted, such as field goal percentage, turnovers, points in the paint, and so on.
However, the KenPom test allows you to measure defensive efficiency gauged of the strength of the opponent, which can be a valuable resource for the “Cinderella” teams that will make a run
Madness in the Making: The Rise of Women’s NCAA Basketball
handle themselves on the court.
“I love Juju Watkins from USC. She plays with such a calm demeanor and never looks rattled even when teams constantly throw double teams and different defensive looks at her to try and stop her. Her skill level is extremely high making it impossible not to be impressed by her,” deMarteleire said.
Viewership continued to soar as the players’ names and team rivalries grew. Caitlin Clark went viral on social media for her longrange shots and buzzer beater moments. The world tuned in when Clark broke and surpassed the all-time scoring record for both men and women. Clark’s outstanding performance increased investment, attention, and views for the women’s March Madness tournament.
In an interview before the 2024 Final Four game, Clark discussed how she wants her legacy to live on beyond her breaking records.
“I don’t want my legacy to be, ‘Oh, Caitlin won X amount of games’ or ‘Caitlin scored X amount of points,’” Clark said. “I hope it’s what I was able to do for the game of women’s basketball. I hope it is the young boys and young
at the top dogs through their strong defense.
In a survey of 30 Alvernia students, 25 selected a team inside the Top 10 in National Rankings to take the tournament. Most of the 25 favored Duke, which has the best ranked team in efficiency based off the KenPom test. Sports fans looking to make wagers would be advised to keep defense in mind.
It is important to remember that the rankings are not used to pick an actual winner, it was developed as a tool to apply statistics and history to gauge teams based off the strength of their opponents throughout the year. It has been used as a tool by millions of Americans to help fill out their brackets, hoping to correctly choose the last one standing.
However, as we know March Madness is always full of upsets and there will be plenty of teams that will have their shot to be this year’s Cinderella story.
girls that are inspired to play this sport or dream to do whatever they want to do in their lives”.
In 2024, the women’s championship game had 18.7 million viewers, making it the most watched women’s basketball matchup in history, as well as surpassing viewership for the men’s championship game for the first time.
The increased visibility of the women’s basketball tournament has made the disparities in support between men’s and women’s sport more apparent. In 2021, the women’s weight room for the NCAA March Madness
Tournament went viral on TikTok for a stack of hand weights and a few yoga mats. Meanwhile, the men’s teams have always had a wide array of equipment.
Another positive outcome of increased visibility for women’s sports is challenging the stereotype that female athletes are less athletic than male athletes. While entrenched stereotypes are hard to break, the simple act of seeing hard-hitting, highly technical play from female athletes can force people to reconsider their preconceived notions.
“Televising women’s basketball more often showed that people are invested in our sport and want to watch it,” deMarteleire said.
“I think the Division 1 Championship last year proved that - it was the first time the women’s title game drew more viewers than the men’s championship game. We had 18.7 million viewers. People want to watch women’s basketball.”
March Madness branded basketball picture by Todd Greene from Unsplash
Alvernia senior, Kayleigh Kehler invested in the Tennessee Tech vs. South Carolina women’s basketball game. Photo taken by Jamie Pierce
The start of the Tennessee Tech vs. South Carolina game. The final score came out to Tennessee Tech (48) to South Carolina (108). Photo taken by Jamie Pierce
March/April 2025
Game Day: Inside the Arena
Guilherme Tavares
Contributing Editor
There’s something unique about the energy in an NBA arena that can’t be captured through a screen. The intensity of the crowd, the sound of sneakers on the court, and the nonstop action make physically attending an NBA game an unforgettable experience.
On February 22 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, the atmosphere was electric as the 76ers squared off against the Brooklyn Nets.
From the moment the game began, it was clear that the 76ers had a challenging road ahead. They fell behind early, with the Nets establishing a solid 30-19 lead in the first eight minutes of the first quarter, and by halftime, the 76ers were trailing by almost 20 points.
But the game wasn’t over. Tyrese Maxey, Sixers Point Guard, took control in the second half, putting on an impressive display that reignited the crowd. With
each shot, Maxey pulled the 76ers closer, and the arena buzzed with renewed energy.
Fans, despite the earlier deficit, began to believe in a comeback. As the game neared its final moments, the 76ers had managed to close the gap. The crowd was on the edge of their seats, eagerly hoping for a dramatic finish.
But in a heartbreaking turn of events, the Nets secured an offensive rebound in the final seconds, leading to a game-winning shot that left the 76ers with no time to respond.
Despite the loss, the fans’ energy remained high, recognizing the team’s fierce effort to make a comeback.
Mylina Castillo, senior and athlete of Alvernia Women’s Track & Field team said: “I liked the surreal experience of watching a high-level sports competition. People you see on the news and social media playing in front of you. I think they should’ve put the same amount of effort the entire game as they did in
the 4th quarter. It was more engaging by the end of the game, and I was at the edge of my seat.”
The experience inside the Wells Fargo Center wasn’t just about the game. It was about the atmosphere, the anticipation, and the various ways fans could enjoy the night. Between breaks in the action, fans could visit lounges, grab a bite to eat, or try their hand at the free throw simulator, all adding to the entertainment value.
The workers at the food spots inside the arena added another layer to the experience. Their excitement and energy made the entire environment feel even more lively. They smiled, greeted fans with enthusiasm, and contributed to the positive vibes that filled the arena, making the event feel more like a celebration.
Raymundo Gutarra, a junior mechanical engineering student, shared his thoughts on the atmosphere: “The NBA experience is great. The
energy from the crowd, the shows, and the halftime entertainment make it something special.”
Gutarra agreed that there is nothing like in-person experience. “I think everybody should live this,” he said. “It doesn’t matter if your team is not playing. The vibes are so powerful there.”
Security and entry at the venue were well-managed, making it easy for fans to focus on the excitement inside. Early arrival was encouraged to avoid the usual rush, but once inside, the flow was seamless, allowing everyone to soak in the
excitement without delay.
Even as a regular season game, the energy inside the Wells Fargo Center was palpable. It wasn’t just about watching basketball; it was about being a part of something bigger. The connection between the crowd and the team was evident, with every good possession met with cheers and every tough moment supported by the fans.
Introducing A Pro Volleyball League
Kayleigh Kehler
Contributing Writer
January 2024 marked a historical moment in the volleyball franchise, the first American Pro Volleyball Federation held its first official season. Before January, the only way of pursuing volleyball for many talented collegiate players was to earn a place on the Olympic USA team. With the rise of the PVF, dozens of college players and others worldwide can continue their passion for volleyball.
Traditional NCAA volleyball takes place between the months of August through December, so the PVF places its season
from January through May.
Avid volleyball enthusiasts can now watch volleyball almost year-round,
“It is cool to see some of my favorite college players getting to continue their careers when they may not have had the opportunity otherwise,” Lindsay Ferguson, Alvernia women’s volleyball junior athlete, said. “They can also get paid. Although it is not as much as other professional sports, it is still something.”
“Because the only pro leagues were based in Europe, this would be a great opportunity for the U.S. and younger players to be able to view higher levels of play
besides collegiate,” Jordon Thompson, Alvernia women’s volleyball junior athlete, said.
Marketing of the PVF is primarily through social platforms such as Instagram and Tiktok. It may surprise people to learn that many of the current teams are owned by known celebrities such as Jason Derulo and Joe Burrow.
“I found out about the league because Jason Derulo had posted about funding a team,” Thompson said.
Little to no celebrities use their platform to spread the word about PVF.
“If they utilized their platforms to grow attention to their teams, then there
would be a bigger following,” Ferguson said.
PVF opened its first year with eight teams with a planned addition of two teams in 2026. Traditional rules of volleyball still apply with some technological advances. No line judges are required as multiple cameras and software have taken their place.
However, news that the league would no longer utilize what is known as a down referee has been controversial in the volleyball community.
Traditionally, there is a referee that stands on the floor on the side of the team’s
benches while another referee is on a ladder on the other side of the net. Both sets of eyes are used to track the action on the court.
Fans are appalled at the change stating that the down referee is essential for calls such as when the ball touches an antenna which may not be seen closely by the ‘up’ referee across the court.
“Match points can come down to these small errors that the technology may not be able to pick up. I am interested in seeing how some of these situations are handled as they pan out,” Ferguson said.
All PVF matches can be watched via livestream on the Pro Volleyball Federation YouTube channel for free. The top four teams from conference play will fight for the championship title in May.
The Orlando Valkyries take on San Diego Mojo Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at 10:05 p.m. EDT. Two games will be played on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at 7 p.m. EDT. The Columbus Fury will face the Indy Ignite while the Vegas Thrill will challenge Grand Rapids Rise.
Electric atmosphere during starting lineup introductions, center court view inside Wells Fargo Center (Feb.2025) -
Photo taken by Guilherme Tavares
Lindsay Ferguson goes up for a block. Photo taken by Beckie Thompson.
Jordan Thompson going for a pass off of a serve. Photo taken by Beckie Thompson
March/April 2025
senioR info
Job Search Information, Tips, and Resources
Alyssa Fiorelli
Contributing Editor
Seniors, graduation is around the corner!
For most of you, that means entering the workforce with your bachelor’s and beginning your career. But how should you go about finding your first position? Fear not! You aren’t alone! Today, we’ll discuss tips, tricks, and stories from fellow seniors regarding their job search journey.
One senior, Jacob Kramer, is a nursing major interested in critical care. Kramer participated in an externship, which is essentially an internship for nurses.
Through his externship, Kramer was offered a position after he graduates and passes his boards. Nursing is a career that will always be in demand, but many of Kramer’s peers have concerns about finding positions.
“Lots of people are stressing looking for jobs right now,” he said. “The issue is not finding a job (since nursing is so high in demand) but finding a job in the exact area you want, which is harder.”
“If I had to advise my fellow seniors,” Kramer said, “it would be to focus on the present and not to stress if you have not found a job yet. I understand it is easy for me to say, but I see people comparing themselves to others, and I do not think that is a great mindset.”
Senior nursing major Ana Elder is interested in becoming a hospital bedside nurse. Due to academic focus and clinical obligations,
Elder could not obtain an externship; however, Elder has had 5 semesters of clinical experience with Alvernia at various hospitals like Tower Health and Penn State St. Joseph, which gave her valuable hands-on experience.
“The biggest obstacle I am facing in my job search is finding a new grad position in an area I would like to work in,” Elder said. “So far, I have sent six applications for nurse residency programs in various areas. I have heard back from two of these hospitals and have begun the interviewing process.”
New nurses should remember that a stable position may not appear overnight. “Some advice I have received from peers is to be patient and persistent with the interview process,” Elder said, “and pursue different... settings you have interests in.”
The good thing about the medical field is there will never be enough medical professionals, and an opportunity is always open for fresh graduates. Unlike the medical field, however, other majors may be feeling the pressure. Business and communication majors, for example, face a more complex journey when searching for job opportunities.
Hailey Rohrer is a senior marketing major and digital media marketing minor. Rohrer is interested in social media management, public relations, and marketing management. Rohrer has worked closely with Alvernia’s marketing and
communication departments since 2022, starting as a work-study and currently as an intern.
“Working with Alvernia University’s marketing department, I have developed skills in social media management, video production, conducting research, and working in an office. I have gained valuable hands-on experience in marketing, communications, and content creation, making me a strong candidate for employers. I believe the demand for marketing and content management continues to grow,” Rohrer said.
Even with her experience, education, and dedication, the job search process has not been easy for Rohrer, “... getting responses after submitting my resume has been challenging, as competition is high, and standing out among other applicants is tough to navigate. I have sent my resume and application to 15+ employers and heard back from about eight.”
A common obstacle among seniors lies within the experience gap. Many positions claiming to be entry level require applicants to have 3+ years under their belt in that specific industry or field. Even with the education and experiences obtained through university, it is nearly impossible for fresh graduates to meet this ridiculous “entry level” requirement.
opportunity will come with persistence and confidence. We’ve got this!”
It can be easy to compare with your peers or feel like you aren’t succeeding like your friends. It is important to remember that everybody’s journey is different, so don’t compare yourself to your peers!
Alvernia has excellent resources for students, including:
Career Development, located in Bernardine Hall, room 103. Hours are MondayFriday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Information provided by Career Development includes, but are not limited to:
Internship guidelines
Employee services
Career fair
Academic Advisors
Rohrer, and others, have expressed this concern.
“Some of the best advice I have received is to be confident in my skills and to make connections everywhere you go. Networking isn’t just about career fairs; it’s about building relationships in everyday interactions that could lead to unexpected opportunities.” Rohrer said.
“Seniors, I know the future feels uncertain, but we have all worked so hard to get here! Trust in your abilities, put yourself out there, and remember that the right
Handshake is a private personalized job search platform open to students for free through the university. The site gives students access to jobs, events, people, and employers. This adds an additional layer of career options to students that may not be posted through other sites, like Indeed.
The Washington Center Internship Program is a program where students find an internship in Washington, D.C., where they live and work for a semester and take one class. Their internship and class count as academic credits.
Headshot of Jacob Kramer, senior nursing major: photo provided by Mr. Kramer, provided on 2/20/2025
Headshot of Anna Elder, senior nursing major: photo provided by Miss Elder, provided on 2/20/2025
Golden Guide headshot of Hailey Rohrer. Photo provided by Miss Rohrer, taken 9/3/24 by Susan L. Angstadt.
coMMunity
March/April 2025
Side by Side at Alvernia
Elizabeth Jones
Contributing Editor
Alvernia students can get active on campus by standing “side by side” with people with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
Alvernia’s “Side by Side” is a student-led club that pairs students with adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities. The club aims to encourage student activity participation and build the community.
Side by Side meets once every month to run activities and hang out with the members. The club is currently only made up of Berks County residents, but anyone who has an interest in taking part is welcome.
Sophia Ruocco is the president of the Side by Side Club. She is an Early Childhood major with a concentration in Special Education.
“I became involved with Side by Side last year as a member. I am currently an
early childhood and special education major, my passion lays within the community of side by side. Being able to welcome our community members onto campus for fun events has been incredible. I now serve as the president of side by side and get to plan all of these fun events!” Ruocco said.
Their fall and winter flyers included a “minute to win it” night, a Jazzercise night, an outing to an Alvernia
football game, and a paint night. Side by Side hosted the members for a Minute to Win It game night on October 16, where they enjoyed various games and got stickers for completion, ending in a bigger prize.
Jazzercise night on November 13 consisted of one of the student members, Lexi Boettcher, a Jazzercise teacher, running one of her classes for the members to participate in.
“I like teaching the class so much! It is one of my favorite things to do. As a fitness instructor I like to help all individuals achieve their goals no matter what modifications we have to do to get there. As long as they are all moving that’s a win for me.” Lexi Boettcher said. This was Boettcher’s second year running a class for Side by Side which gets a big turnout from members and students.
On November 16, all the members and students were invited to attend the Alvernia Football game to hang out and watch Alvernia’s last home game of the season. Their last event of fall semester was on December 4, which was a paint night where the members were given canvas and paint and could paint anything they wanted with guidance from the students.
In the Spring, Side by Side hosts four more events. They hosted group dancing lessons for the members to prepare them for Night to
Shine, where they learned a few different dance styles, and showcased their moves. On February 17, there was Fitness Night, where they paired up with the Pre PT club and All Abilities to have a fun adaptive fitness class for the members.
“I loved it! Night to Shine was the first event like this that opened me up to a new community of people and every event I’ve been to since with Side by Side has been so fun! You can tell all the students, and the community members really enjoy themselves and the experience they’re getting.” President of the Pre PT Club, Katie Nedimyer said.
Side by Side will also host the members for a Women’s Lacrosse game to watch them take on Ursinus on March 19 since the football game got a pretty good turnout. Their last event of the semester will be on April 14, which will be an Egg Hunt and Bingo event for members to join.
Alvernia’s Team FTK Hosts Dance-A-Thon
Lindsay Kercher
Contributing Writer
Team FTK, sponsored by Alvernia Pre-Physical Therapy Organization, is a student-led fundraising initiative and dance-a-thon that raises money towards children and families battling a cancer diagnosis.
Starting on March 22 at 7 p.m. through March 23 at 11 a.m., Alvernia students will stand and dance for 16 hours straight, all in support of a brighter future for children battling cancer.
The 16-hour event will raise funds for Four Diamonds, a nonprofit organization dedicated to
supporting families and children battling pediatric cancer. The event promises an exciting night of dancing, entertainment, and community support.
The Dance-A-Thon is a new tradition at Alvernia, organized by Team FTK as part of its larger fundraising efforts for Four Diamonds.
Team FTK was started by students of the Pre-Physical Therapy Organization at Alvernia. Leaders of the club include students Hailey Keperling, Claire Campbell, Madison Matthews, Katelynn Nedimyer, and Owen Weiss.
The organization assists families with pediatric cancer
by covering medical expenses and offering emotional and financial support. The event is an important way for students, faculty, and staff to unite for a cause that impacts thousands of children and families every year.
“Team FTK is an amazing event profiting children with pediatric cancer. Being able to stay on our feet for 16 hours and fundraising throughout the year is our way of showing these kids and their families that they have our support. Our hope is to someday be dancing in celebration of a cure! Until then, every dollar we raise will continue to make a difference in these families’ lives.” junior leader Katie Nedimyer said.
Throughout the 16-hour event, participants will engage in nonstop dancing, with music, games, and activities designed to keep the energy high and spirits even higher. The goal is to raise awareness and, most importantly, funds to aid Four Diamonds in its mission to alleviate the financial burden faced by families undergoing cancer treatments.
“Team FTK is an awesome opportunity to come together as a community to make a
difference! Showing support to the most vulnerable families is a way to use our resources for good. We dance today so one day we can all dance together!” junior leader Madison Matthews said.
The event’s theme for this year is “Dancing for Tomorrow,” aiming to inspire participants to keep moving and dancing in unity with those fighting for their lives.
Team FTK is encouraging everyone at Alvernia to get involved, either by signing up to participate, donating, or volunteering to help organize the event. The more support the event receives, the larger the impact it can have on families facing the hardship of pediatric cancer.
“Team FTK stands for For The Kids. So, everything we
are doing is for them and fundraising to help conquer childhood cancer! Four Diamonds, the organization we are partnered with, is constantly researching and saving children’s lives each day. Standing 16 hours is nothing compared to what families and children impacted by pediatric cancer has to go through each day. We are dancing for a better tomorrow!” junior leader Claire Campbell said.
Alvernia’s Dance-A-Thon is not just an event. It’s a movement that reflects the university’s commitment to making a positive impact.
To learn more or to register for the Dance-A-Thon, visit Alvernia’s Team FTK page.
Side by Side member Adam holds up the painting he created on Painting Night on December 4. Picture credits to Sophia Ruocco.
Team FTK members design posters for their first fundraising sports event. (Photo by Claire Campbell)
Team FTK members sit together during their pickleball fundraising event. (Photo by Claire Campbell)
March/April 2025
coMMunity
From Vision to Reality: The Story Behind OCOA BEAUTY
Aldriany Payano
Contributing Editor
OCOA BEAUTY is a brand, founded in Berks County to make sustainable and clean haircare products, Cory Varona and Nicol Varona, two local business owners, co-founded the company to provide sustainable haircare products that not only help the community but also help the planet without sacrificing efficacy or quality.
“We believe beauty should be high performance and good for the planet,” Cory Varona said.
It was hard to create a company from scratch, especially in the competitive beauty sector. From the beginning, the founders knew they wanted to create something that helps the community and the planet, that is why they faced a lot of struggles like quality
Josh Dipini Contributing Writer
The journey of Theron Cook is blended with the mix of passion and perseverance which fuels his work making him a local gem here in Berks County. His story emphasizes community engagement and his goal to achieving artistic success and sharing it to others to grow.
A pivotal moment in Theron’s life was when he received recognition from his father, which lead to him to receive a paint set after he recognized his passion to paint. Theron went through early challenges and expanded his expertise through education in college and Internships. His ability to overcome personal and professional obstacles, guided by his “don’t quit” motto, led to the creation of the Theron Cook Art Foundation, focusing on suicidal prevention and mental health support for creatives.
In the future, Theron aims to utilize technology and visual communication to empower the youth within the community, demonstrating the power of art as an outlet for healing and positive social impact. This article displays Theron’s
ingredients and securing funds.
“Everything we tried was either too heavy, too greasy or filled with ingredients we didn’t trust,” Cory Varona said. “We took matters into our own hands and spent years researching, testing and perfecting formulations that provide hydration, shine and definition,”
OCOA BEAUTY’s influence is now achieving success in the beauty sector. In December 2023, Ocoa was one of the top 12 clean beauty brands on Forbes’ Clean Brands list. Being part of this prestigious list helped the brand gain position in the eco-friendly environment.
The company not only helps the environment and the planet, but the brand is also devoted to social responsibility,
OCOA BEAUTY created “Helping Hermanas,” a campaign that tries to encourage and empower women. This initiative is a
big part of the company’s commitment to the community.
OCOA Beauty’s Helping Hermanas campaign originated from the founders’ challenges as Latinas transitioning to a new life in the United States and entering a new life where they did not see their hair and culture represented in the beauty sector.
This campaign was founded in Reading, PA, and has made a big impact in the community by donating over 300 full-size hair care products that are not only about hair but also about self-love and self-acceptance.
OCOA Beauty goes beyond just a haircare brand. It’s all about helping the community from the inside out. The brand gives a powerful message: Beauty is different, and everybody deserves to feel confident.
One of the biggest lessons the founders learned was persistence. “For example, we
Through The Lens of Art
evolution, going over his path from his initial spark of interest in art in high school to present day and his role as an artist.
Theron Cook’s passion for art began in 10th-grade art class, where he first discovered a creative outlet in art class. He explains that when his father, recognized his hobby and talent, and gifted him an Easter paint set, it enhanced his passion for art, and he never looked back. To Theron the gift wasn’t just about painting; it was a validation to him that his casual interest soon transformed into constant dedication.
Theron’s earliest experiments were murals he painted directly on his bedroom walls. His first
challenges came along with the struggles of being young and inexperienced, and the added tribulations of surgeries and familial difficulties. However, Theron’s determination pushed him forward. He branched out into digital art in Hussian College in Philadelphia, receiving a 4-year degree as he pursued a formal education in advertising and design. His experiences beyond academics, helped him gain experience through internships at magazines in New York City and even creating his own publication, honing in on his skills in visual communication and branding, which is a crucial asset in his career.
Theron Cook faced many obstacles, including the
applied for the Ultra Muse Celebrator three times before we got in,” Cory Varona said. “Every ‘no’ was just a motivation to push harder. This is something we always remind ourselves: never take ‘no’ as a final answer.”
OCOA BEAUTY is more than a haircare brand; it’s also a cause committed to sustainability, inclusion, and empowerment. Cory and Nicol Varona founded a company that not only helps people feel comfortable with who they are. It also improves the community through its dedication to sustainable beauty and community benefits.
Their journey demonstrates that with persistence and passion, barriers can transform into opportunities and dreams can become a reality. As the brand grows its goals remain to help the community, promote diversity, and help women feel powerful.
difficulty of launching a business for the first time and the emotional challenge of losing a business partner. Yet, he approached these setbacks with acceptance, expressing that “it is life and things happen,” His personal philosophy/motto “Don’t quit,” is a guiding principle for him to navigate with strength and purpose.
Theron established the Theron Cook Art Foundation, an organization dedicated to promoting mental health awareness and suicide prevention among artists and entrepreneurs, this initiative stems from his own understanding of the struggles faced by creative individuals, based upon his experiences to offer support and guidance. His goal with the Theron Cook Art Foundation is to have an
environment/setting where artists can freely express themselves through art, providing them with the tools and resources necessary based on painting.
Theron expresses how he embraces the healing power of art, understanding that it brings a sense of connection and shared experience among individuals which is important in community.
Theron Cook envisions a future where he can empower the youth and community through art and visual communication, helping them build skill and confidence to pursue their creative desire, utilizing his knowledge and expertise in branding and digital art to inspire other entrepreneurs.
Theron can be reached on Instagram for any inquiries: @theroncookart.
OCOA BEAUTY models had a good time together because OCOA is beyond simply haircare. It’s about being true to yourself and expressing joy with those you care about. (photo taken by OCOA team)
Theron in front of Lucky’s Lane 335 S 7th St. Mural. Picture by Josh Dipini
Another angle of the Lucky’s Lane Mural. Picture by Josh Dipini
tRavel
March/April 2025
Drinking Around the World
Matt Marchese
Contributing Writer
For some people, the happiest place on Earth can be made a little happier through adult beverages. The most determined alcohol enjoyers of appropriate legal age can attempt to “drink around the world” at the EPCOT World Showcase.
The World Showcase features 11 countries -- Mexico, Norway, China, Germany, Italy, the United States, Japan, Morocco, France, the United Kingdom, and Canada – with both food and drink offerings, as well as other kinds of shopping. To “drink around the world,” a participant needs to drink at least one alcoholic beverage at each country.
TJ Sinchak, an Alvernia senior, thinks there is “nothing better than drinking around the world.”
Adventurous drinkers beware: It is not advised to drink and do challenging rides. Ending your day in the World Showcase is probably a wise course of action.
You can go in either direction when starting your world journey. You can either start in Mexico or in Canada, but it’s easier to go in order in one direction. Choosing which way to go is personal preference, but on super-hot days Mexico may be a better
fit to start. Mexico offers frozen margaritas, which are super refreshing on those hot days, and feature multiple flavors.
Next up will be Norway. Not only does Norway have delicious drinks, the pastries they sell are magnificent. Norway has very good beer such as the Farmhouse Ale, but if you don’t feel like having a beer you can instead get a Viking Coffee. A Viking Coffee is a normal coffee spiked with Aquavit, a liquor from Scandinavia. A Viking Coffee can truly get you in the
Viking spirit.
“Drinking around the world is a lot of fun,” Dr. Ryan Lange, full professor of communication, said, “but the best deal in the World Showcase is getting School Bread in Norway. The amount of donut you get for your money is the best deal in the park.”
China’s pavilion does not have many drinks, but the shop in China is certainly a fun visit with all cool trinkets. For the drink I do recommend the Canto Loopy, which is cantaloupe juice and vodka. (Those wanting a more familiar experience can also order a Golden Monkey, brewed by Victory Brewing, in the China pavilion.)
The Germany pavilion is for beer lovers. The pavilion is home to an amazing restaurant called Biergarten, which has some great German food as well as some icecold beer. However, if you don’t want to sit down at a restaurant you can instead buy a delicious bratwurst and a delicious Schofferhofer Grapefruit Hefeweizen. The Schofferhofer is delicious on a hot day and is overall the must get beer.
Italy is the next world pavilion. While the Italian pavilion is small, it punches above its weight with a variety of wines or a Prosecco to continue your drinking adventure.
The United States tends to be a rest stop during most people’s drinking around the world journey. The patriotic can of course get a red, white and blue frozen cocktail, but for many people the United States pavilion is stop six out
pavilion may want to have a sake slushie instead.
Morrocco is next, featuring both delicious cookies and a Moroccan mule, a twist on the Moscow Mule.
After Morocco is France. France, like Italy, is home to delicious wines and some solid beers. France’s pavilion is exceptionally beautiful, making it a great place to sit down and enjoy your wine.
The last two pavilions on this route are the United Kingdom and Canada. The United Kingdom has that pub feel, so be sure to get some fish and chips and a Guinness. Those who prefer not to chew their beers can find lighter fare on tap.
of 11.
“It’s good to take a rest at America and clean up a little bit,” Dr. Lange said. “By the time my wife and I got to the America pavilion, the patriotic songs the choir were singing made us both cry like children. It was time for some water.”
Japan’s pavilion is highly acclaimed by visitors for its shopping. If you have a glass of sake here, be warned that sake is quite strong. Those struggling after the American
Canada offers a delicious Moosehead beer, or if you feel up to it, an Ottawa Apple, a whiskey-based cocktail. It may be best to end more gently depending on your tolerance level, as well as how long you’ve been on the journey.
Know your limits. While drinking around the world can be fun to do with your friends, you should take your time and be sure to drink plenty of water, especially if it’s a hot day at the park.
French Pavillion at the Epcot World Showcase in August, 2024.
Photo taken by Matt Marchese
Disney World guests walking around the Epcot Ball in August, 2024. Photo taken by Matt Marchese.
Disney Epcot’s world flower showcase, with monorail and Epcot ball in the back. Picture taken by Matthew Marchese, August 2024.
lifestyle
March/April
2025
The Benefits of Mindfulness
Kenneth Miller
Contributing Writer
As college students, we are constantly experiencing and managing multiple things at once such as jobs, classes, deadlines, homework, exams, papers, all while navigating independence, friendships, and relationships at the same time. For many, this can be an overwhelming time in their lives, and they may find themselves losing their connection to the present moment. At Alvernia, some professors have included a section on mindfulness in their curriculum. Students become introduced to what mindfulness is, the benefits of mindfulness, and how and where it can be used in their lives. The goal is to be more connected with oneself and others.
What is Mindfulness?
Mindfulness is the practice of purposely focusing yourself and your attention on the present moment, without judgement and accepting it for what it is. It requires that you be open, purposeful, and aware of your internal feelings and your surroundings. Mindfulness can be practiced every day or as often as needed. Mindfulness can be done with others or by yourself. You can use apps, videos, or see professionals who specialize in mindfulness classes. Whether you have 5 minutes or 45 minutes, there is a mindfulness practice that you can learn about that may help you to reduce stress and enjoy the moment. Monica Miller, and Alvernia student mom and case management supervisor at Human Services Inc. in Chester County, says she utilizes mindfulness practices several times a week.
“Mindfulness techniques are my personal medicine,” Miller said. “It is something I do, not something I take, to help myself feel better. It is something that I can do now that doesn’t require a lot of planning. I like to practice mindfulness walking on lunch breaks or weekends.”
What are the Benefits of Mindfulness?
There are many benefits to practicing mindfulness. Mindfulness has been shown to help regulate emotions, increase focus and concentration, improve physical health (heart health, blood pressure), improve mental health (depression,
stress, anxiety), improve self-awareness, improve relationships, and improve sleep. Mindfulness helps you to focus on the present and find enjoyment in the things you are doing or have access to now. If you focus on the here and the now, then you can reduce, or delay worry about future things or become less preoccupied about things that have happened in the past.
Alvernia University alumni, Stephanie Cooper (‘15) is an outpatient therapist at Human Services Inc. in Chester County. One of the tools she uses during sessions is mindfulness techniques.
“Society puts such an emphasis on multitasking as being productive,” Cooper said. “Mindfulness is a great way for us to slow down, observe, and describe our experiences and participate in one thing, in the moment, from a nonjudgemental stance.”
How Do Mindfulness Techniques Work?
All mindfulness techniques are a form of meditation. There are several quick and easy techniques that you can practice right here at Alvernia University or anywhere you go.
Mindful Breathing: the practice of intentionally focusing your attention on your breath, inhaling, exhaling, being aware of the present moment to reduce stress and anxiety.
Body Scan/Sensations: noticing the physical feelings you have when you focus on each part of the body, such as tension, warmth, coolness, aches, pains, sensations and doing it without judgement.
Sensory: the practice of using the 5 senses (sight, sound, touch, taste and smell) to focus on the present moment and bring more awareness to where you are.
Mindfulness Eating: practice of paying attention to the experience of eating and not judging it. Using the 5 senses to engage with food. Eat slowly and pay attention to texture, hunger cues and stop eating when satisfied. Avoid phones, electronics, and other distractions. It should just be you enjoying the eating experience.
What is your current emotion: The practice of sitting with yourself and paying attention to the feelings you may have such as sadness, anxiety, happiness,
worry and allowing yourself to experience that without judging. Once you can identify what it is you are truly feeling, you can address it.
Mindfulness Walking: paying attention to the sensations and your surroundings while you are walking, being present in the moment, and focusing on your body, breath and environment. Use your five senses. Walk slowly and pay attention to each step.
Where Can I do Mindfulness practices around Alvernia?
The library
The Quad and other areas such as the patio outside the student center and the campus commons living room.
Reflection
After being exposed to Mindfulness practice by Professor Warchal-King, this practice helped me immensely to regulate my emotions, focus on my work, decrease anxiety and take in my college experience.
As with anything, the more you do it, the more benefits you will experience. Some days you may have time limitations, so it is beneficial to build up your mindfulness practices so that you have options.
Alvernia University, Quiet Study Floor, Picture by Kenny Miller
Fireplace area to relax on campus for students at Alvernia University. Picture by Kenny Miller.
Patio outside Dining Hall.
Picture by Kenny Miller
March/April 2025
Is the Process Over? news
Richard Wynne Contributing Writer
Expectations for the Sixers coming into this season were very high for reasons that should speak for themselves when you take a look at the roster coming into this season.
Unfortunately that was not the case. We are past the mid-way point of the season and are coming down to the stretch of the playoffs, and the Sixers are sitting 12th in the Eastern Conference standings.
The 76ers spent a lot of money in the offseason to not only acquire superstar Paul George in free agency for 3 years, but they also spent a lot of money to pick up key role players who were on other teams in Caleb Martin and Andre Drummond.
The Sixers on paper looked to have one of the most complete rosters they had since the process started back when they drafted Joel Embiid in 2017. With three
superstars and a bunch of very solid role players, you would think the Sixers would for sure be a playoff team with championship aspirations. With three superstars the big question is what went wrong for Philly?
When the season first started injuries built up quickly as both Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey suffered some injuries that held them out for a lengthy amount of time, as this was going on the Sixers were struggling to find a groove with Paul George and the rest of the role players.
Despite Jared McCain, who was the Sixers first round draft pick, nobody could seem to find the groove. The Sixers seemed to have found themselves in a hole within the first two weeks of the season.
As the season started to kick into gear the season did not get much better for Philly as injuries kept derailing the team. Even when the three
superstars in Maxey, Embiid and George were playing, the team was still not looking well. They looked out of sorts offensively, which is expected for a new team with three ball dominant stars.
As the all-star break was quickly approaching, a lot of news about Joel Embiid was coming out that surgery was going to be needed after the season. Embiid’s injuries seem like the common reason why this team can never get over the hump of the playoffs and make it into the NBA finals.
Hearing this news is making Philadelphia fans and fans of the NBA wonder if the Sixers should shut Joel Embiid down for the season and look forward to building for next year.
The playoffs are starting to look a little out of reach for the Sixers at this point of the season. Questions and concerns are rising over all the faces of Sixers fans as now there is no clear direction of
this organization. The main question seems to be “where does the blame go? There are many different causes and reasons for the Sixers struggles that it is hard to point out just one. It could be the front office who struggles to make moves to keep this team looking forward to the goal as well as it could be the players who
Penny for your Thoughts
can’t seem to stay healthy or perform when they are healthy. Or the blame could be on Coach Nick Nurse who has not seemed to have figured out the puzzle that is the Philadelphia 76ers. With under 25 games left to play, it will be interesting to see the position the 76ers will be in at the end of the season.
Grace Wanner Managing Editor
President Donald Trump has been busy signing an array of executive orders that intend to fundamentally change the relationship between the federal government and the American people, many of which have been controversial. While many of the President’s executive decisions have been condemned by Democrats, one of his actions is gaining bipartisan support: The abolition of the penny.
On February 9, 2025, Trump announced via social media that he had plans to abolish the penny. The President made the announcement on TruthSocial: “For far too long, the United States has minted pennies which literally cost us more than 2 cents. This is so wasteful! I have instructed my Secretary of the US Treasury to stop producing new pennies. Let’s rip the waste out of our great nations budget, even if it’s a penny at a time.”
While many people don’t think very much about the penny at all, there are rational reasons for the U.S. Treasury to halt the
production of the coppercolored cent.
The first penny was minted in 1793 and was originally a pure copper coin. When the penny was first created and put into circulation, the cost of production was roughly equal to its value. Since 1793, the penny has undergone many changes. Pennies are much smaller than they once were and are now made of mostly zinc.
While the value of the penny has remained the same, the cost of production has nearly tripled despite shrinking the penny and changing its material composition.
Currently, a penny’s production price is roughly 3.7 cents per coin. This leaves the U.S. treasury losing about
2.7 cents on the penny.
While a few cents may not sound like a lot, it adds up fast. In 2024, there were millions of pennies minted, according to the U.S. Mint annual reports, bringing the total loss to roughly 85 million dollars in penny production.
So, what happens to the pennies in circulation?
With an estimated 114 billion pennies currently in circulation, people are concerned about the uncertain future of the value of their pocket change. It is likely that the penny would still be accepted as legal tender. In fact, the value of pennies may see an increase due to supply shrinking as demand stays constant.
Dr. Victoria Williams,
professor of political science at Alvernia University, gave some insight on what the future of the penny may hold.
“While the President may have the ability to order the Treasury to stop minting a coil, only Congress has the ability to decide what currency America uses. So, while the Mint may stop making pennies, Congress would have to determine whether to stop accepting them as legal currency,” Dr. Williams said.
The penny is not the only expensive coin in American
circulation. The nickel is also valued lower than its production price. The U.S. Mint reported 202 million nickels minted last year, resulting in a loss of 18 million dollars.
Some say the penny is a prime example of government inefficiency and wish the coin a good riddance. Others are pinching their pennies for dear life as they believe the coin is an iconic symbol of our country.
One thing is for sure: the nickel better watch its tail...
Image of a basketball leaving the net after a basket. Image by Markus Spiske from Unsplash
Picture of a penny slot at Hollywood Casino. The future of penny slots is uncertain with the President’s efforts to get rid of the one cent coin. Picture by Grace Wanner.
Handful of Pennies.
Picture by Annie Spratt from Unsplash.