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IN THE NEW YEAR | VOLUME 118,
Editor-in-Chief
Sierra Blaser editor@dailywildcat.com
News Editors
Sophia Hammer
Kanishka Chinnaraj Emma LaPointe news@dailywildcat.com
Opinions Editor Luke Lawson opinion@dailywildcat.com
Sports Editors
Melisa Guzeloglu Reed Lofstedt sports@dailywildcat.com
Editing Staff
Arts & Life Editors
Sabina Hernandez arts@dailywildcat.com
Photo/Multimedia Editors Jay Corella Mason Kumet photo@dailywildcat.com
Copy Chiefs Ari Keating Olivia Volland copy@dailywildcat.com
Comics Editor Sela Margalit smargalit@dailywildcat.com
Social Media Coordinators
Nandini Manepalli Kiara Adams socials@dailywildcat.com
Designers
Sam Parker Sierra Blaser Sela Margalit Jay Corella
Editor-in-chief introduction
SIERRA BLASER
The Daily Wildcat
How’s it going, Wildcats?
Let me start off by welcoming you all back for another semester. Whether you’re a seasoned Tucsonan by this point in your college career, or a new student this spring, we’re happy to have you pick up a copy of the Daily Wildcat’s print edition.
My name is Sierra Blaser, and I am the new editor-in-chief this semester. I’ve contributed to the Daily Wildcat for almost 2 years now and have loved every second of it. I’m thrilled to take on this new opportunity as I learn from my colleagues what responsibilities go into running a successful newsroom and navigate what kind of impact we want to create.
About a year ago, I had no idea that this would be where I ended up. I didn’t
have a clue on what I wanted to do with my life - I only knew I loved to write. To be completely honest with you, my main interest in journalism was sparked by an effort to be more extroverted. I entered college as a fairly reserved girl who didn’t know how to put herself out there. I joined our Arts and Life Desk to force myself to get out more, and it was the best decision I’ve ever made.
Not only did I get more comfortable with talking to new people, but I fell in love with it. I fell in love with talking to business owners who made their dreams come true and students who wanted to make a positive impact in their community. I fell in love with the artists who strive to be recognized for their commitment to creating a bright, beautiful city and the volunteers at nonprofits who hope they can make a difference. I fell in love with the Tucson communities that uplift the Tucson community. Now that I’m in the driver’s seat of our student newspaper, it’s my turn to try to give back.
The Daily Wildcat is a student-run and
editorially independent news outlet serving the University of Arizona and greater Tucson area. We’re here to keep you up to date with what’s happening in our Old Pueblo, and we’re here to make you feel heard. We write stories and take photos of topics that directly affect each and every one of us — sometimes
lighthearted and sometimes somber—but all important. I hope you tune in with us from time to time, as you are the reason we do this.
Here’s to a successful semester, Wildcats. Bear Down!
PAID ADVERTISEMENT
TUITION
UA releases tuition, fees and housing rates plan for the 20252026 academic year
at $12,168. For fiscal year 2025, 48% of undergraduates at the UA are Arizona residents.
The University of Arizona has announced that tuition and mandatory fees for resident undergraduate students will not increase for the 20252026 academic year. The decision is part of the university’s tuition, fees and housing rates plan.
“By maintaining our current resident undergraduate tuition and fees, we are working to prevent financial barriers to academic opportunity. Our goal is to ensure our students graduate ready to shape a brighter future for their families, for Arizona and beyond,” UA President Suresh Garimella said in a press release.
Resident undergraduate tuition sits
Non-resident undergraduate tuition will increase by 2% (from $40,520 to $41,330), while tuition for graduate and medical students will rise by 3%.
Meal plan costs will all see a 2% increase across all plans and residence hall rates will go up between 2-5.3%, depending on the housing option. Firstyear students living in the residence halls are required to purchase a Swipe Meal Plan. Additionally, all residents of the Honors Village, regardless of their year in school, must also purchase a Swipe Meal Plan.
Chief Financial Officer John Arnold noted that Garimella wanted to prioritize affordability from the beginning of his tenure.
“We want the students that come to
the university to be successful and to reap the rewards of their investments
both in terms of time and money and ensuring they can make it through to that four-year degree is critical to that [...] I think by keeping our cost [of] tuition flat should help with that. We want to be an attractive product for our students. We know the inflationary pressures that are on them,” Arnold said.
This announcement comes as the university continues to find ways to implement various measures to address its financial deficit, including reduced financial aid for out-of-state students, reduced merit aid, department centralization and mandatory monthly expenditure plans.
“We also made some changes to our merit aid structure last year and he [Garimella] was cognizant of that and did not want to have that dual impact of reductions of merit aid and also increases in tuition,” Arnold said.
SOPHIA HAMMER
The Daily Wildcat
CARMEN VALENCIA | THE DAILY WILDCAT THE UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA Bursar’s Office, located in the University Services Building, is responsible for student payments and billing, among other aspects of college finances.
NOLAN SLAUGH | THE DAILY WILDCAT
VIEW OF OLD MAIN from the University of Arizona Mall Memorial on Sept 9. According to the National Register of Historic Places, Old Main is one of the oldest standing educational structures in the Western United States.
ASUA president speaks
to evolving relationships with campus safety officials: ‘That communication wasn’t there before’
BY BAILEY EKSTROM
The Daily Wildcat
Campus safety has been a pressing issue for many University of Arizona students, faculty and community members since the shooting of Dr. Thomas Meixner in 2022. The oncampus shooting spurred significant reform and restructuring of the university’s crisis response and management, including the creation of the Office of Public Safety and increased engagement between campus safety officials and the community.
Adriana Grijalva, president of the Associated Students of the University of Arizona, has observed many changes during her tenure.
“Since Professor Meixner’s shooting, we got the chief of the Office of
Public Safety [Steve Patterson] and the change of Chief Olsen [the new chief of the University of Arizona Police Department] — it’s a growing team. Since that shooting happened, there has been a change within ASUA. I don’t think we were as collaborative with the safety department and teams before,” Grijalva said.
One of the significant developments made in the past two years has been the formation of the Student Safety Advisory Group in March 2024. This group, composed of representatives from the OPS and student groups across campus, meets monthly to discuss current safety topics and concerns.
“Sometimes students don’t know they can come to us; we do sit on safety committees now that we never sat in on before […] I know it may be hard to see that change when so much is going on,
but inside of these meetings, there are people in the room that are really advocating for student safety on campus,” Grijalva said.
Grijalva shared her experience from last semester, when a Pima Community College student was shot and killed on the volleyball courts near Arizona-Sonora Hall. Grijalva was on a ride-along with UAPD the prior evening.
“When the shooting happened, there was immediate communication between Steve Patterson, who oversees OPS, Chief Olsen and UA Administration,” Grijalva said. “We were all connected and communicating throughout the day as UAlerts came out. That communication wasn’t there before.”
Following the incident, Grijalva spoke with students in the surrounding dorms
who expressed concerns about the UAlert system.
“I submitted a report of what students recommended to me, and Chief Olsen and everybody heard me out and took them,” Grijalva said.
These concerns were further acknowledged in an ASUA Senate meeting days after the shooting by the Threat Assessment and Management Team, who collaborate with UAPD, OPS and administration.
According to TAMT Director Jessie Semmann, this cross-organizational collaboration is a priority.
“I will tell you I am in regular communication with people saying
SOPHIA HAMMER | THE DAILY WILDCAT VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF Safety Officer Steve Patterson gathers students and staff outside of the Modern Languages building to demonstrate emergency procedures using the Blue Light Emergency Phone. The demonstration occurred during an event called “Safety Stroll with Steve” on Oct. 25.
MASON KUMET | THE DAILY WILDCAT POLICE BLOCK OFF MULTIPLE intersections near Arizona-Sonora Residence Hall after a campus shooting on Sept. 22. The shooting occurred late Sunday night.
CAMPUS SAFETY
FROM PAGE 6
[UA safety officials are] very, very aware about the negative feedback about the UAlert and is very, very intent on fixing some of the issues with UAlerts,” Semmann said.
Grijalva recognized that although communication during crises has improved, “we still have some work to do in those moments,” and emphasized that one of ASUA and UAPD’s goals is to build trust and improve communication with the student body surrounding these events.
Grijalva also discussed the unrest surrounding May’s Palestine encampments near North Main Gate Square, where UAPD, SWAT and the Tucson Police Department used force against demonstrators, media and bystanders after declaring the encampments unlawful.
“I will tell them how students feel about those moments, for example, with barricading things,” Grijalva said, referencing the UA Mall being barricaded after an on-campus encampment that same month. “Students aren’t going to feel safe.”
The events in May also led to a broader dialogue about free speech and student demonstrations on campus.
“We created a committee after May’s encampment with the Dean of Students, Office of Public Safety and many others […] we worked on a graphic that we distributed to UAPD and to many departments across campus for students to better understand uni-
versity policies,” such as the 10:30 p.m. curfew that was enforced at the Main Gate encampment, according to Grijalva.
Grijalva said that ASUA has worked closely with the Dean of Students in regards to free speech.
“We encourage [free speech], and that
is something that we have worked very closely with the Dean of Students on […]. They are there for support, but it sometimes doesn’t feel that way for students,” Grijalva said.
Looking forward, Grijalva said that ASUA and UAPD hope to collaborate on future initiatives to bridge this gap with students, highlighting the importance of building relationships.
“For students, there’s sometimes this pushback with administrative leadership and UAPD, and that’s something that I have told [UAPD] […] It’s never easy to talk to somebody in a crisis. Especially with police officers — a lot of students have had past trauma, and that’s something students have brought up with me,” Grijalva said.
Grijalva also emphasized the importance of student awareness of resources, providing the example of the Emergency Blue Light Phones placed around campus that connect students with UAPD in the case of emergencies.
“We are working on a guidebook to put on our page with all of [these] resources to guide more students,” Grijalva said. “A lot of people probably don’t know who Steve Patterson or Chief Olsen are, and that’s
something [ASUA and UAPD] want to work on.”
The evolving collaboration between ASUA and university administration has also been influenced by the resignation of former President Dr. Robert C. Robbins, who received immense backlash from students and UA faculty over his response to the shooting of Dr. Meixner in 2022, and current President Suresh Garimella taking his place.
“There’s been a drastic change to our administration, I would say. [President Garimella] came a little bit after the [September] shooting and into the anniversary of the shooting of Dr. Meixner. [President Garimella’s] priorities look a little bit different than President Robbins. Right now, it is a lot more focused on getting the university back on pace with everything it is going through right now,” Grijalva said.
In the coming semester, Grijalva hopes to continue developing camaraderie between the student body and campus safety leadership, mentioning that ASUA is “working on a safety round-table and more town hall style meetings that we hope to open up to students.”
MASON KUMET | THE DAILY WILDCAT
POLICE CONFRONT PROTESTORS ON Park Avenue early in the morning on May 1. While this happened, sheriffs moved in and destroyed the encampment.
COURTESY UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA
FORMER UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA President Dr. Robert C. Robbins (left) and Chief Safety Officer Steve Patterson (right) speak at a Welcome Back briefing in McKale Center on Friday, Aug. 25, 2023.
UA String Project director and founder steps down after 10 years
The University of Arizona String Project holds a special place in many people’s hearts, providing an avenue for young musicians to learn from future string teachers who are developing their own teaching skills.
For Theodore Buchholz, the project has been a huge part of his life for the past 10 years. An assistant professor within the UA School of Music, a cello teacher, string chamber music coordinator and the director of the String Project, Buchholz founded the program in 2015. After years of dedication to the program and its students and teachers, Buchholz stepped down as the director following the String Project’s final events on Saturday, Dec. 14 and Sunday, Dec. 15. Many university students under his guidance have used the program to develop their teaching careers and find their own footing in the professional world.
Buchholz’s role has been one that involves one-on-one mentoring; he meets with each student teacher to design the curriculum for the students and oversees the progress of their teaching. This has been a huge task; every teacher has six to 10 students and because every student is different, the teachers have to shape their instruction based on who the group of students are or who the individual student is, Buchholz said.
Regardless of any challenges brought on by the large-scale position, the experience has been deeply worthwhile for him.
“I love my official role at the university and it has been a great joy watching those university cellists go out into the world as a performer or as teachers to earn their jobs or be involved in the community
through their profession,” Buchholz said. “Working in the String Project really has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life and I’m quite proud of what we’ve all built together.”
Buchholz founded the program at the UA after noticing a lack of string education in public schools. According to Buchholz, the project began with just six teachers who were UA students paid to teach group classes to around 50 kindergarten students at the time.
“My goal at that point was that I wanted younger students to get
experience learning an instrument,” Buchholz said. “I wanted to reach out to schools, areas and neighborhoods that might not have exposure to string music education and a lot of that was trying to target students who it would not be financially possible for them to take lessons.”
Thanks to Buchholz, the String Project has grown significantly since its founding, with now almost 100 K-12 students who receive a 30 minute private lesson each week. The core of the program remains, where students still have group classes as they are “an incredibly important part of the social
education,” Buchholz said. Buchholz emphasized the importance of one-one-contact and said it makes a world of difference when learning a string instrument.
Other members of the Tucson community have helped make the String Project’s success possible alongside Buchholz.
“Part of what makes the private lessons possible is there’s an incredible donor in the community named Julie Gibson, who created-
CONTINUED ON PAGE 10
JOSIE SHIVERS | THE DAILY WILDCAT
ISABEL BURGOS-DESTEPHANIS TEACHES primo-level students at the University of Arizona School of Music on Dec. 7. The school was holding rehearsals for the String Project, which is a teacher training program to teach kids from ages five through 14 where they can learn violin, viola and cello.
DYLANN SWEENEY
The Daily Wildcat
MUSIC
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9
-an endowment and we’ve been using that endowment to fund or subsidize the private lessons,” Buchholz said. “It’s costly but it’s worth it.”
Kelsey Nussbaum, assistant professor of music education at the UA and String Project teacher and co-director, will take over Buchholz’s role after his departure. The two had known each other through professional networks prior to Nussbaum’s move to Arizona. Buchholz was aware of her lifetime of experience working with String Projects across the country so he “immediately got me involved in helping with the String Project,” Nussbaum said.
According to Nussbaum, the pair balance each other out in a beneficial way that has set her up for success once she takes over the role.
“He’s very organized and disciplined with the administrative side of things and that’s always my least favorite part to do,” Nussbaum said. “It’s helpful to see all of the logistical and organizational and administrative elements that he’s laid the groundwork for.”
Nussbaum has been affiliated with a String Project since her freshman year of college and her dedication to the national program is just one of the many valuable aspects she will bring to the UA String Project as its future director, she said.
“I think one thing people hear about String Projects and don’t realize is how tied in it is to this bigger network and this bigger mission,” Nussbaum said. “It’s really part of a rich tradition of this very direct opportunity for mentorship and training of future music teachers. It’s important to me to instill that value into it going forward.”
Nussbaum plans to keep the core of the program the same but envisions creating an outreach program where the UA String Project could partner with other schools or school districts for off-campus programming to help with issues of accessibility for students trying to come to campus.
“Something where we’re able to go into public schools and do additional after school programming for kids in public schools who are really wanting to grow their string playing skills but don’t have the money or the transportation to do either our program or more expensive youth orchestra programs,” Nussbaum said.
Buchholz does not have any worry when it comes to Nussbaum’s takeover and says it has been very enjoyable working with her on the String Project since inviting her to the program.
“It has been a joy watching her grow and helping her so that she can take the reins of the program starting in January,” Buchholz said.
Buchholz has been an integral part of the String Project and his dedication has not gone unnoticed by other faculty members within the School of Music, even those who did not work directly alongside him in the String Project.
“It is a big investment of time and energy to run a program like String Project, and I thank Ted for taking on this important work,” said Philip Alejo, associate professor of music at the UA.
While the String Project has thrived under Buchholz’s direction, the program is one that has equally benefited him.
“It’s one of my greatest joys coming in on Saturday mornings and seeing these young kids in the music building,” Buchholz said. “They have such a sense of life and energy and I just love it. I don’t have children myself but to me the interactions with these
young children feels very special.”
Children under Buchholz’s mentorship have gone on to teach in public schools in Arizona, as well as across the country. In addition to this, some of his best accomplishments include the success of students who have grown up alongside the UA String Project. A cellist in the program who joined back in 2015 when she was 7 years old has stayed with the project and is now a 17-year-old high school senior. She has taken on a role in the program where she is not only a student but also a mentor to the younger classes.
“My hope is that she will hopefully come to the university as a music education student when she graduates because I think she’d make a fantastic teacher,” Buchholz said.
Buchholz’s departure from the String Project is bittersweet for him but he is anticipating even more success to come.
More information can be found on the String Project website or on the School of Music page.
JOSIE SHIVERS | THE DAILY WILDCAT
THE STRING PROJECT HAS grown to have almost 100 K-12 students who receive a 30 minute private lesson each week.
CAMPUS LEADERSHIP
New leadership in the New Year
University of Arizona President Suresh Garimella appoints several new leaders to university administration in his first months at Arizona
BY SOPHIA HAMMER
Since taking office as president of the University of Arizona on Oct. 1, 2024, Suresh Garimella has focused on assembling a new leadership team, appointing several people into new leadership roles in hopes of strengthening the university’s administration. Here are three new appointments we can expect to see in 2025.
Dr. Francisco Garcia, chief of staff to the president
Dr. Francisco Garcia, a two-time University of Arizona graduate and Distinguished Outreach Professor of Public Health, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Mexican American Studies and Clinical Pharmacy, has been appointed as the chief of staff to President Garimella. He officially began his role at the beginning of this month.
Prior to this appointment, Garcia served as Pima County’s chief medical officer and deputy county administrator. However, Garcia believes his previous experience as serving as faculty at the UA is more relevant to how he can contribute to the UA community.
“Yes, I have had some really high profile kinds of jobs like [Pima] health department director and deputy to the county administrator, but I think in many ways the other background is really almost more important than my more recent background,” Garcia said.
According to a UA press release, in his new role, Garcia is responsible for, “supervising the staff of the university president’s office, serving as the primary liaison with the Arizona Board of Regents and coordinating work among members of Garimella’s senior
team.” Garcia will be paid $300,000 a year in this position.
“I will depend on Dr. Garcia’s abilities and partnership as the university community begins an effort to shape, communicate and implement a shared vision for our service to the state of Arizona,” Garimella said in a press release.
Garcia has a long history with the university, earning his undergraduate degree in psychology and his medical degree at the UA. His first job was as a work-study student at the campus health center, an experience he said inspired his career in medicine.
“I have deep ties to this land. I have deep ties to this community. I am not here for the next, you know, couple of days and [then] gone. That’s just not me. Those are not the kinds of commitments I make,” Garcia said.
According to Garcia, his main focus in this position is to be a facilitator for President Garimella and also to help the president deliver his vision to the UA community.
Tomás Díaz de la Rubia, senior vice president for research and innovation
Tomás Díaz de la Rubia, was appointed as the senior vice president for research and innovation on Nov. 11, 2024. Díaz de la Rubia is a materials scientist and has had previous experience in research leadership. He will now oversee the university’s $1 billion research enterprise.
Díaz de la Rubia was among four finalists in the UA’s selection process for this position and will make an annual salary of $460,000.
“My vision for the Office of Research, Innovation and Impact is that we support the continued excellence of University of Arizona faculty and students through an effective and efficient research administration,” Díaz de la Rubia said. “To achieve our goals and deliver transformative impact for Arizona and the world, it will take transdisciplinary collaboration, transformative industry and government partnerships, and a
culture of inclusivity and creativity to address the pressing issues of our time.”
The Daily Wildcat
COURTESY UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA
DR. FRANCISCO GARCIA WAS announced as University of Arizona President Suresh Garimella’s chief of staff on Jan. 6. Garcia’s most recent role was deputy county administrator and chief medical officer for Pima County.
CAMPUS LEADERSHIP
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11
Díaz de la Rubia comes to the UA from the University of Oklahoma, where he served as vice president for research and partnerships for five years. He has also held leadership positions at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Deloitte and Purdue University.
Elliott Cheu Named Interim Chief Information Officer
Elliott Cheu, a Distinguished Professor of Physics at UA, has been appointed interim chief information officer, which will follow the retirement of CIO Barry Brummund on Jan. 17.
Cheu has held five interim leadership positions at the university, including interim senior vice president for research and innovation, a position which Díaz de la Rubia recently took over.
“I feel like that’s my goal in life — is to step in when there’s a need for somebody,” Cheu said.
In this position Cheu will focus on centralizing IT systems and ensuring consistent technology infrastructure across campus. Cheu will be making $420,000 a year.
“We are going to try and make sure we can communicate well to students and staff and tell everyone what’s coming up,” Cheu said. “Sometimes, especially on the tech side, we get a little bit into a lot of acronyms and things that are a little hard to understand. So I think we are going to try to be pretty clear-spoken and let people know what’s coming down the pike.”
According to a UA press release, some of Cheu’s responsibilities include, “advancing high-performance computing, modernizing financial and HR systems, and addressing remaining centralization and coordination needs.”
One of the projects Cheu said he is looking forward to is digital Cat Cards. According to Cheu, these cards are being piloted right now and will soon be accessible on mobile devices, enabling easier payment and identification.
COURTESY UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA
UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA PRESIDENT Suresh Garimella announced Oct. 29 that Dr. Tomás Díaz de la Rubia would be the university’s senior vice president of research and innovation. Díaz de la Rubia began his tenure Nov. 11.
COURTESY UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA
ELLIOT CHEU WAS APPOINTED interim chief information officer by University of Arizona President Suresh Garimella on Jan. 3, effective Jan. 6. Cheu most recently served as interim senior vice president for Research and Innovation.
SCHOOL WILDCATSPIRITRECRUITS
Bryce James, son of LeBron James, commits to Arizon a
BY MELISA GUZELOGLU
Daily Wildcat
Bryce James, the youngest son of NBA legend LeBron James, has officially committed to the University of Arizona, joining this year’s Wildcats’ class.
Arizona opened the New Year picking up the Sierra Canyon High School player. Bryce James had multiple offers, including from programs like Ohio State University and Duquesne University. While his first offer came from the Dukes in the summer of 2022, Bryce James made unofficial visits to Ohio State in the fall of 2023 and his most recent visit was to Arizona in late November 2024.
Bryce James, the 17-year-old and 6-foot-6 wing, announced his commitment to the UA on social media in early January. The post, captioned “100% committed,” captured Bryce James and head coach Tommy Lloyd in McKale Center in a photo edited by Kyle Doiron Design on Instagram.
ESPN-ranked as a four-star prospect, Bryce James has played in 14 games over the summer with the Strive For Greatness Amateur Athletic Union team on the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League circuit. In those games, Bryce James averaged 6.9 points while shooting 39% from the field, 2.2 rebounds and 0.9 assists in 22 minutes of play. Additionally, he shot 36.8% from 3-point range and made multiple shots from deep in seven games. His standout performance was highlighted by a 21-point game, where he went 5-for9 from the 3-point line and added six rebounds against Nightrydas Elite.
Bryce James also played with Strive For Greatness at the Nike Peach Jam, where he put up a 12-point performance in 23 minutes of play against Nightrydas Elite. Despite averaging 5.6 points, Bryce James shows poten -
tial to develop and grow as a shooter as he becomes more comfortable on the court.
Bryce James possesses the size and skill to enhance his pull-up game and shots from beyond the arc. With his knowledge and understanding of the game, he can be a valuable addition to Arizona’s roster.
Bryce James’ older brother, Bronny James, played at USC in 2023-2024 before going pro. He suffered cardiac arrest due to a congenital heart defect during a team workout before the season, limiting him to six starts with
the Trojans. Bronny James was drafted in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft and was selected by the Los Angeles Lakers. This historic opportunity allowed him and LeBron James to become the league’s first father-son duo in a game when both played against the Minnesota Timberwolves in October.
Bryce James is now the second player in Arizona’s recruiting class, joining top-25 prospect Dwayne Aristode, a 6-foot-8, four-star ranked player by 247Sports who committed to the Wildcats back in October 2024.
Arizona still has prospects on its
radar, continuing to pursue three top-15 players: Arizona native Koa Peat (No. 8 in ESPN 100), Brayden Burries (No. 10) and Alijah Arenas (No. 15).
Bryce James’ father and Lakers superstar LeBron James supported his announcement by putting up two posts, the first reading “(Bear emoji)DOWN[…] CONGRATULATIONS MAXIMUS!! SO PROUD OF YOU!!!”
The most recent post captured Bryce James in official Wildcat gear along with the caption “Official threads[...]!!!!”
NOOR HAGHIGHI | THE DAILY WILDCAT MCKALE CENTER LIGHTS UP as Arizona men’s basketball players are introduced on Feb. 4, 2024. The Wildcats won against Stanford University 82-71.
The
ARIZONA ATHLETES
Walk-on to Wildcat: Trey Townsend’s road to Arizona
Trey Townsend is not your average University of Arizona basketball player. There was a point in his life where college basketball felt like a distant dream. However, Townsend transformed himself into one of the Wildcats’ most crucial players on the court, both offensively and defensively.
Years at Oakland
Townsend’s career started long before his arrival to Arizona, in a town of less than 5,000 people: Oxford, Michigan. Townsend attended Oxford High School where he played for the boys varsity basketball team and competed in high jump for the school’s track and field team.
During his high school years, Townsend broke Oxford High School’s single-season scoring record with 456 points his senior year, finishing second on the school’s career points list. Additionally, he achieved honorable mention AllState both his junior and senior years of high school. Despite these notable statistics, Townsend didn’t know if his efforts in high school would be enough to propel him into a collegiate career.
“I wasn’t really sure if I was ever going to be a college basketball player. I was not really recruited or anything like that. My school was a small basketball school in Michigan,” Townsend said.
Little did Townsend know that his journey was only getting started.
Townsend attended Oakland University and joined the men’s basketball team as a walk-on. Despite an unsuccessful recruiting process, he excelled as a walk-on; his success
skyrocketed during his years at Oakland.
In the Oakland record book, Townsend’s achievements include ranking second in career starts; fourth in minutes; sixth in rebounds, steals, and blocks; eighth in both points and field goals made and tenth in free throw attempts. Notably, Townsend reached 21 double-doubles during his tenure at Oakland, tying for sixth in Oakland’s history.
Despite his many achievements, Townsend claimed to have built these successes relatively quietly.
“I was more conservative; more of a lead by example kind of guy,” Townsend said.
Townsend also recognized how the different teammates he played alongside shaped his attitude and behavior on the court; his experiences at Oakland transferred to the player he now hopes to be at Arizona.
“At Oakland, I was fortunate enough to play with a great leader. His name was Blake Lampman. He is what you would think a leader is,” Townsend said. “He was very vocal, motivating, not afraid to speak up and wasn’t shy or anything like that. Being able to see how he was able to lead our team the four years I played with him there I think is giving me some traits that I can bring here to Arizona.”
Family ties
Townsend’s interest in Oakland started long before his basketball career, dating back to his parents’ years at the university, where they were both athletes as well.
“I always wanted to play because both of my parents played. They both played at Oakland, so growing up I always wanted to play there and kind of be like them,” Townsend said.
Athleticism seems to run in the Townsend family. Trey’s brother, Zach, is a redshirt junior defender for Oakland’s men’s soccer team. According to Townsend, his other siblings have always
been involved in sports as well.
Townsend’s parents, Skip and Nicole, have always served as motivators and
supporters in Trey’s life. Townsend considers them his most influential
MIKE CHRISTY | ARIZONA ATHLETICS
UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA FIFTH-YEAR forward Trey Townsend navigates around a defender from Baylor University in McKale Center on Jan. 14. The Wildcats defeated Baylor 81-70.
ELLIE CONOVER
The Daily Wildcat
ARIZONA ATHLETES
mentors.
“Like I said, I always wanted to be like them growing up, and they had the ultimate belief in me. They always told my siblings and I that we could do whatever we wanted to as long as we put our minds to it and gave 100% effort. So, I definitely wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for them,” Townsend said. The transition to Arizona
“The whole portal process was a whirlwind,” Townsend said. “Obviously there were a lot of schools talking to me, but coach [Jack] Murphy and coach [Tommy] Lloyd were one of the first schools to reach out and keep a good relationship the whole time.”
Lloyd is the head coach for the Wildcats alongside associate head coach Jack Murphy.
“They were the first school to come
visit me at my house in Michigan and ever since then I just felt like their relationship with me was super strong and true. I felt they had the best vision for me and planned for me to get to the ultimate goal which is the highest level professionally,” Townsend said.
Townsend expressed his aspirations of playing in the NBA and his trust in coaches Lloyd and Murphy to help him get there. In addition to the guidance of his coaches, he also values the support and motivation of his Wildcat teammates.
“I’m still learning and trying to fit in since this is my first year here but my teammates have been great with that,” Townsend said.
Basketball heavily relies on teamwork on and off the court, and Wildcat players spend crucial moments together outside of their time playing basketball. As a new member of the team, Townsend extended these efforts in hopes they will translate on the court as well.
Townsend’s game is what drives his career and current lifestyle. Something Townsend has been focusing on this season is his 3-point shooting following his role as a forward down low at Oakland.
“I always felt like I was a capable shooter. So, when I got here in June, that was the main focus: to get back that confidence and polish off or knock the rust off of that skill and get back to being comfortable outside of the three point line,” Townsend said. Townsend is in his fifth year as a college basketball player. While the constant demands of travelling, games and practice took a lot of time away from his studies, Townsend said the best way to stay on top of the workload was to be completely transparent with his professors and advisors.
“Explain to them before the semester starts who you are and why you will be missing stuff, and try to get on top of things. More often than not, they’re a fan of basketball or whatever sport it may be and they want you to succeed. They are not out
to get you as long as you’re transparent with them,” Townsend said. Did you know?
There may be a typical stereotype surrounding college basketball players, but Townsend does not always fit this conventional mold.
Due to Townsend’s extreme superstitions, his game-time rituals are rigid.
“I got a Jimmy John’s sandwich one time before a game, like at the beginning of last year, and I had never been a fan of Jimmy John’s and I never ate it,” Townsend said. “But then I played really well, so I was like, well, I have to keep doing that.”
Regardless of where the team travels or plays, Townsend ensures he gets his Jimmy John’s sandwich.
“No matter what, I will get a giant sub from Jimmy John’s,” Townsend said.
While many people associate athletes solely with their sport, they often overlook their academic pursuits. Townsend initially started his studies in health science, but after realizing the challenges of balancing college sports and academics, he decided to switch his focus.
“I would have majored in digital media production, but [Oakland] didn’t have it as a major, so I majored in communications and specialized in digital media,” Townsend said.
According to Townsend, basketball has helped him improve in public speaking settings and expand his way of communicating, which will be very valuable in his life after basketball.
“If basketball stops, I’d want to do something of videography, but I also wouldn’t be opposed to sports broadcasting or things like that,” Townsend said. “I think that [basketball] has also prepared me for that[...]. I’m comfortable speaking now and knowing how to articulate things.”
Growing up, Townsend surrounded himself with basketball in various forms, particularly on television. While he never had a player he tried to mimic, there was one who caught his attention.
“My favorite NBA player is Giannis [Antetokounmpo]. I just like everything about him,” Townsend said.
When Townsend isn’t busy with Wildcat basketball, he likes to relax by playing video games.
“More often than not, when I’m not here, I’ll be on my couch playing video games or something,” Townsend said.
With Townsend’s passion for basketball and eye in digital media, there’s no doubt he will excel, no matter where his journey takes him.
MIKE CHRISTY | ARIZONA ATHLETICS
How Daily Wildcat staff WILDCATS ON BREAK
I SPENT MY BREAK on the Hawaiian island, O‘ahu. I was staying on the west side of O‘ahu in the town of Makaha. Winter is surfing season so I was able to watch a lot of surfing competitions. I also went fishing on a boat off the coast and we were able to catch a yellowfin tuna which we then made into poke!
SOPHIA HAMMER | THE DAILY WILDCAT
NOOR HAGHIGHI | THE DAILY WILDCAT
DAILY WILDCAT MANAGING EDITOR Sam Parker (left) and social media coordinator Kiara Adams (right) enjoy a winter day on Mount Lemmon in Tucson with Noor Haghighi (not pictured). The group hiked around the famous Tucson peak and stopped at Cookie Cabin to enjoy warm drinks and warm cookies in the chilly mountain environment.
NOOR HAGHIGHI THE DAILY WILDCAT
SABINO CANYON SITS DRY on Dec. 31, 2024. Noor Haghighi, along with other Tucson community members and hikers, enjoyed the mountains on the last day of the year. The canyon is located in the Santa Catalina Mountains and the Coronado National Forest north of Tucson, Arizona.
spent their Winter Break
EMMA LAPOINTE | THE DAILY WILDCAT
THIS WINTER BREAK I was accepted to attend an inaguration seminar held by the Washington Center. As part of the School of Government and Public Policy, I attended to learn more about politics and got to meet a lot of important people! I attended former President Jimmy Carter’s lying in state, met journalists who cover Congress and spoke with the DNC party chair among others. It was a blast.
WILLIAMS | THE DAILY
FOR WINTER BREAK I traveled all over the states, but one of my most memorable experiences was snowmobiling in Brian Head, Utah. It was my first time snowmobiling, so I was a little nervous (that I had to drive my own vehicle more so), however, any fear I had melted away once I got adjusted to the speed, cold air and the gorgeous views. This photo is one of my favorites from the many scenic stops our guide showed us. Although the snowy weather is top tier in my opinion, I’m glad to be back in Tucson, especially as it starts to cool down. Hope everyone had a safe return and has an awesome semester!
a
time hanging out with friends and family, and my mom and brothers came
MELISA GUZELOGLU| THE DAILY WILDCAT I HAD A WONDERFUL time over break! I got to visit Pennsylvania and wear all my favorite winter outfits. I also did some self-care, getting to relax in the snow, do face masks and drink tea all while working on new articles for the Sports Desk.
SIERRA BLASER | THE DAILY WILDCAT
THIS WINTER BREAK, I decided to stay in Tucson. I had
great
out here to spend time with me. One of my New Year’s resolutions is to use my camera more, so I thought what better way than to start on the first. I spent my New Years playing pool and hanging out with some friends.
AMARA
WILDCAT
From Los Angeles to New York City: Careers of UA School of Dance alumni
GWENDOLYN BUETTNER
Arizona Sonoran News
The hustle and bustle of Broadway street looks different now for Alejandro MullerDahlberg as he steps into New York City’s famous entertainment district as a performer. As a dancer in a show running eight times a week, he now takes his bows in front of thousands of cheering audience members.
After graduating in 2020 from the University of Arizona’s School of Dance, MullerDahlberg spent a few years taking classes, auditioning and performing in cities like Los Angeles to further his skills in musical theater. This fall, he made his Broadway debut as a swing dancer in the musical “& Juliet” in New York City.
He’s one of dozens of graduates of the UA School of Dance to launch successful careers as dancers and
performers. The school was established almost 40 years ago and in 2020 ranked second among public universities by OnStage. The program, accepting only around 40 to 45 dancers each year, trains aspiring professionals who go on to take a wide variety of career paths.
For MullerDahlberg, the UA dance program gave him a glimpse into what a career in musical theater could look like through a jazz class taught by one of the school’s associate professors, Tamara Dyke-Compton.
“I didn’t really think I could sing until she made us sing at the mock audition,” MullerDahlberg said.“That was kind of the first time where I was like, ‘Well, maybe I could shoot for Broadway.’”
Dyke-Compton’s instruction has stuck with him. She, like many of the other faculty members, has a respect for and dedication to the art of dance that he learned from, according to MullerDahlberg.
“You’re not always going to be lucky
enough to find mentors to push you forward,” MullerDahlberg said. “If you want to have longevity in your career — she’s a stickler about a warm up, so in terms of professional, on-the-job skills, I got a lot from Tammy.”
The journey was far from easy for MullerDahlberg. As a student during the COVID-19 pandemic, his passion for dance wavered, he said. But faculty did not allow him to give up.
“I switched to a dance minor, computer engineering major because I wanted to quit dance,” MullerDahlberg said.
“But (associate professor) Liz George wouldn’t let me quit. So she dropped me to a minor, and she was like, ‘I have a feeling you’ll be back.’”
She was right.
MullerDahlberg rejoined dance and graduated in 2020 with a Bachelors of Fine Arts.
After graduating, MullerDahlberg moved to Los Angeles to continue
studying dance styles including hip hop and musical theater, which had piqued his interest in UA classes. He started securing roles in regional productions such as “Damn Yankees.”
Later, MullerDahlberg performed in a six-month contract with Tuacahn Center for the Arts, a Broadway bootcamp in Utah. He formed a foundation for his vocal technique and gained confidence to take a chance on New York City toward the end of 2023.
“From there, I kind of never looked back — they say you get bit by the bug,” MullerDahlberg said. “I came to New York on $1,000 at the beginning of this year. New York chewed me up and spit me back out.”
By then, MullerDahlberg knew a thing or two about perseverance. After overcoming a fractured ankle and several audition rejections, he
CONTINUED ON PAGE 19
GWENDOLYN BUETTNER | ARIZONA SONORAN NEWS DANCE MAJORS IN AN advanced ballet class at the School of Dance in Tucson, Arizona on Nov. 22, 2024. Students take several technique classes during the school week.
GWENDOLYN BUETTNER | ARIZONA SONORAN NEWS
THE SCHOOL OF DANCE is located in the Ina E. Gittings building at the University of Arizona in Tucson, Arizona. This is where students take class and have rehearsals for upcoming performances.
WILDCATS AT WORK
FROM PAGE 18
started dancing again. MullerDahlberg attended auditions in Los Angeles, including one with Jennifer Weber, the choreographer of “& Juliet.” Then he got a call from his agent that changed the trajectory of his dance career.
“I was driving to the gym and he gave me a call and he was like, ‘Is there anybody with you right now? Well, tell them to start recording,’” MullerDahlberg said, describing the moment his agent told him he had gotten the job in “& Juliet.”
“I was like, ‘Oh my God!’” he said. “Cause let me tell you, a regional theater does not pay very much money. Broadway pays well enough that you can live comfortably in New York.”
Dyke-Compton said moments like these make her proud as an educator. The school offers a diverse curricu -
lum where dancers can explore different dance styles and career paths to discover their passions. Alumni have built careers on cruise ships, Broadway, in Los Angeles or in ballet or modern companies, like alumna and former student Jada Pearman.
“[Pearman] dances with Paul Taylor, and they’re having their season at the State Theatre in Lincoln Center,” DykeCompton said. “There’s a humongous billboard of just Jada on the whole side of the building, and I’m just so proud of her.”
Ending up on a New York City billboard might not be everyone’s journey, and there are other ways to find success as a dancer.
Anastasia Miller, who graduated from the UA in 2023, is currently freelancing in Los Angeles as a choreographer, dancer and teacher. She said the School of Dance gave her tools to be successful and open to jobs.
“My favorite thing that really stuck with me from the school is the variety and options,” Miller said, “As a freelance dancer now, that’s kind of what my daily looks like — I’m constantly hopping into different facets of the dance industry every day.”
As a choreographer, Miller said she had opportunities to present work on stage at the Stevie Eller Dance Theater in showcases such as “Student Spotlight.” Guidance from her mentors taught her not only about choreography, but how to set a piece on stage with proper spacing and lighting.
When she graduated, she already had a strong choreography reel. “So my choreography looks relatively professional,” Miller said.
During her senior year, Miller also experienced audition rejection from dance companies. According to Miller, in those moments, she learned to trust the process and that her life did not begin or
end after graduation.
“Just doing things you have any inkling to do and not letting fear stand in your way,” Miller said. “Don’t worry about judgment by others, because at the end of the day, they’re not the ones living your life–you are.”
According to Duane Cyrus, director of the School of Dance, the curriculum prepares students for sustainable careers, and his primary vision for them is career longevity.
“We have professional companies come into town and do private auditions with our students that have led to employment. For example, one of our alums, Kyle Anders, is now apprenticing with Hubbard Street,” Cyrus said, referring to the contemporary dance company based in Chicago.
According to Cyrus, a successful career doesn’t happen overnight, and it requires community involvement.
“It comes from a series of actions over time,” Cyrus said. “Immerse in the community, learn about the Dance Collective, engage with all the faculty. All of the faculty have value.”
Dyke-Compton added that dancers also need to come into the program with a willingness to learn, loving and experiencing new things to become as well rounded as possible. Improving skills in all forms of foundational dance is key to knowing what you are drawn to as an artist.
“I always say, coming in with an open mindset is the best thing and seeing the good in everything that’s being offered to you in the moment,” Dyke-Compton said.
For MullerDahlberg, being honest and genuine have been the keys to success.
“Whether you can dance this style or another style, whether you can do tricks, whether you can do turns or whether you’re a jumper or a freestyler, none of that matters as much as the way you live,” MullerDahlberg said.
Now, he spends his time settling into life on Broadway, learning multiple roles as a swing, from ensemble tracks to solo singing roles. And he walks into the rehearsal space — one he used to audition in — as a performer, enjoying every moment.
GWENDOLYN BUETTNER | ARIZONA SONORAN NEWS
DANCERS REST AFTER CLASS at the School of Dance in Tucson, Arizona on Nov. 22, 2024. Dancers have the opportunity to take ballet, jazz, modern and other technique classes at the school.
Top study spots at Arizona
JAIDYN MARTINEZ
The Daily Wildcat
With a new semester just beginning, it is never too early to think about where to study and get homework done for your next round of classes.
When picking a place to study, it can be hard to imagine where to start. The University of Arizona Main Library may be the first and most obvious choice, but while it provides many resources, study rooms fill quickly and common areas become crowded. Here are a few other places to look to lock in. Cafes and outdoor seating areas
Around the UA, there are places like Snakes and Lattes, Panera and Scented
Leaf along University Boulevard and Park Avenue.
Cafes can provide an aesthetic environment with lighting and decorations that encourage and inspire students to be productive while also fueling them.
These locations also provide space for group work with an environment conducive to socialization; conversations are easy.
While not necessarily cafes, there are spots around campus like the small and almost hidden corner by the vending machines by the UA Campus Store where some students go to study.
“It’s shady here and the breeze comes in, so it’s much cooler in this area than a lot of other places on campus and usually the library is already full and if you don’t get a study room it gets a little complicated,” said Abril Garcia,
a UA junior.
As Garcia described, the environment that a student is surrounded by plays a large factor in where they choose to study.
Libraries
The UA has many different libraries and buildings that provide students with more study rooms and less commotion.
A few of these include Bear Down Gymnasium, the Science-Engineering Library, the Arizona Health Sciences Library and the new Grand Challenges Research Building right by the Cherry Avenue Parking Garage.
These buildings provide resources that students tend to need, especially during finals: study rooms and quiet to focus.
The Arizona Health Sciences Library is a newer building with amenities students enjoy.
“It’s a relatively new building and they also
have a cafe in there and a lot of study rooms are always available so I don’t have to go looking for one,” Carrington Little, a UA sophomore, said.
From the name, Bear Down Gym may not be the first place one starts looking for study locations; however, the location provides good corners and rooms to study.
“I go to the the Bear Down building in the tucked-away spots. I like the sense that I’m safe and I know that it gives me confidence to do good and also gives me motivation to keep going,” UA sophomore Zavion Stringer said.
Department buildings and on-campus desk jobs
More niche locations students utilize are their department buildings and on-campus desk jobs.
“I really like coming to Panera or Scented [Leaf] but those places get kind of populated during the day. So, I really like going to my department building. We have research labs and study spaces available so I go there. I know there’s not a lot of majors that have those kinds of spaces available but then I also go to the Honors College that has good study spaces,” said Ashley Mentor, a UA senior.
Bonus study tips
Everyone has techniques that they continue to return to when it’s time to study. If you are looking to add some new tools to your toolbox, here are a few techniques recommended by students across campus:
“I use the Pomodoro Technique so I do 60-minute focus, five-minute break and then I like listening to instrumental music, so Lo-Fi and right now Christmas jazz,” Mentor said.
“I usually listen to Lana Del Rey and then just sit by myself for a few hours,” Connor Carney, a UA junior, said.
“I like to listen to EDM and stuff because it’s repetitive and it helps a lot to really focus,” said sophomore Sarah Holligan.
“I just go over my notes and go back through slideshows and talk myself through it and see what makes sense and what doesn’t and then talk to my roommates and ask if it makes sense. Sometimes I even call my mom and ask ‘Hey can I explain this to you,’” Stringer said.
Whether you listen to EDM or classical instrumental music, record yourself or turn to a specific method of studying, finding what works best for you is what is most important. If you haven’t found your groove yet, try out these tips to learn what does and doesn’t work for you.
JONATHAN BONILLA LEON | THE DAILY WILDCAT
WITH THE SPRING SEMESTER starting up, class loads are sure to increase. With more work comes the need for a productive space to do it, and writer Jaidyn Martinez is setting a guide for the best places to study on and near the University of Arizona campus.
POP CULTURE
OPINION: Movie musicals are seeing a comeback
VALERIA NALANI
The Daily Wildcat
After the disaster of “Cats,” the world seemed to lose its faith in movie musicals.
The silver screen has long been captivated by the allure of the musical. Few genres can immerse audiences in such a complete experience. However, in recent decades, the relationship between musicals and mainstream cinema has been less than harmonious.
For every critically acclaimed hit like “La La Land,” there’s been a misfire
like “Cats,” which left many wondering if Hollywood had lost its way in adapting Broadway to film.
Released in 2019, “Cats” was meant to be an ambitious translation of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s beloved stage production. Instead, it became a cautionary tale of what happens when spectacle overshadows substance. Critics and audiences alike derided its unsettling visual effects, confusing creative choices and disjointed execution.
The film’s reliance on computer-generated imagery to transform its A-list cast into feline hybrids resulted in what many described as a bizarre and unsettling
visual experience. The “Cats” adaptation also suffered from a lack of clear narrative coherence, leaving viewers unsure of its tone and purpose. While the stage production had long been celebrated for its whimsical charm and iconic music, the film’s technical missteps overshadowed its artistic potential.
The released adaptation of “Wicked” — already a Broadway phenomenon — reignited not just interest in the genre, but a broader cultural appreciation for movie musicals.
“Wicked,” based on Gregory Maguire’s reimagining of “The Wizard of Oz,” has already cemented its place in the cultural
zeitgeist since its 2003 Broadway debut. The story’s themes of misunderstood villains, the consequences of power and enduring female friendships continue to resonate today.
The decision to split the adaptation into two films, a choice usually reserved for epic sagas, demonstrates the filmmakers’ commitment to giving this complex story — and its iconic score by Stephen Schwartz — the space it deserves.
With a powerhouse cast that includes Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, the film combined Broadway’s emotional depth with Hollywood’s star power.
Director Jon M. Chu, known for his stunning visuals in “Crazy Rich Asians” and “In the Heights,” ensures that this adaptation will be more than just a faithful rendition; it’s a film designed for the big screen, with its own cinematic style.
At its core, “Wicked” is a story about connection — between friends, ideologies and worlds. Its film adaptation is a reminder that musicals can still connect audiences in ways other genres can. It’s also a sign that Hollywood may have learned from past missteps, striving to honor the essence of beloved stage productions while embracing the unique possibilities of cinema.
“Wicked” has ushered in a new era for movie musicals, proving that despite past missteps, the genre still holds power in the modern film landscape.
*DW opinion articles represent the views and opinions of the writer and do not represent an editorial position*
Valeria Nalani is a student at the University of Arizona studying Business Management.
PHOTO COURTESY FREE MALAYSIA TODAY
WITH THE RELEASE AND immense popularity of “Wicked,” moviegoers across the world are regaining faith in the power of the movie musical. Opinions writer Valeria Nalani believes the success of this film will usher in a new era of musical cinema.
TUCSON COMMUNITY
Farmers markets fuel Tucson’s economy and community
BY LIZZY SORENSEN Arizona Sonoran News
Under the warm Tucson sun, the Rillito Park Heirloom Farmers Market comes alive with vibrant colors and rich scents. Rows of canopies shelter piles of rich tomatoes and jars of thick honey arranged by loving hands. The air hums with guitar music, children’s laughter and the scent of fresh bread and herbs. Shoppers browse carrying baskets brimming with organic produce, sampling tangy cheeses and spicy salsas, while vendors share stories of their carefully curated product.
In Tucson, farmers markets like this one have become a cornerstone of the local economy, offering opportunities for small businesses, promoting sustainability and creating a sense of community. These markets are vital economic hubs that support local vendors and contribute to the city’s overall cultural and financial landscape.
From small-scale entrepreneurs to larger community initiatives, farmers markets are actively reshaping the way Tucson operates.
Stephanie Spencer, business advocacy specialist at the Tucson Metro Chamber, said farmers markets are important in supporting a free-market economy.
“We are very much in support of giving folks the opportunity to make a business for themselves,” Spencer said.
Many local restaurants source their ingredients from small vendors, who often get their start at farmers markets.
“We see a lot of cottage food items circulated within restaurants, and a lot of times you don’t realize it, but they are on their menus and they are locally sourced from folks that are probably engaging in local farmers markets,” Spencer said.
Farmers markets in Tucson are also central to creating a circular economy, where local spending directly benefits the community.
“We like to keep money in Arizona and bring money back to the local community,” Spencer said.
This is a significant advantage of farmers markets, said Lena Melnick, director of operations at Heirloom Farmers Markets, a non-profit organization that operates five farmers markets in Southern Arizona.
“For every dollar spent at a farmers market, 60 to 80 cents is reinvested locally. This is much higher than chain stores, where only 15 to 30 cents remains in the local economy,” Melnick said. The directto-consumer model offered by farmers
markets eliminates intermediaries, ensuring that vendors retain all of their revenue. This model has allowed several small businesses to grow and eventually establish permanent locations in Tucson.
“We have several vendors who started out at the market and now have successful brickand-mortar locations throughout Tucson,”
Melnick said. “Tumerico, Selena’s Salvadorian, Del Cielo Tamales, Café Francais, Bubbe’s Bagels and Fiamme Pizza are some that have really taken off.”
The higher profit margins vendors enjoy at farmers markets have played a significant role in these success stories.
“Studies show that vendors at farmers markets report 10 to 20% higher profit margins compared to wholesale or distributor sales,” Melnick said.
The economic boost of farmers markets extends beyond the vendors to others in the community.
“Markets draw foot traffic, with 60 to 70% of attendees visiting nearby stores or cafes. Retailers near farmers markets report increased sales of 10 to 15% on market days,” Melnick said.
This points to the broader community impact of shopping locally.
“When you are supporting local businesses and local enterprises, you’re supporting those that are right here at home and those dollars stay in your community,” said Barbra Coffee, director of the Office of Economic Initiatives for the City of Tucson.
Tucson Village Farm is a product of the Pima County Cooperative Extension and the University of Arizona. This seed-to-table program designed to connect young people to a healthy food system hosts a Midweek Market every Wednesday from 4-6 p.m.
Ann Wilds, who works with AmeriCorp at the farm, said that the profits of their market go entirely towards fueling their goal of positive youth development in Tucson. The revenue supports their community programs, exemplifying a circular economy at work.
“I know that the community loves having farmers markets because it’s local, fresh and provides a sense of community. It feels personal, instead of the grocery store,” Wilds said. The personal interactions that occur at farmers markets are a unique aspect of the shopping experience.
“The cool thing about a farmers market is that you are person-to-person, one-on-one with someone. You’re not pointing and clicking and purchasing a product, you’re actually hearing about their story and the ingredients that are in those products,” Coffee said.
This connection is particularly appealing to
a population that is increasingly interested in the origins of their food and environmental sustainability.
“I think more and more, especially younger generations, are in tune with the environment and where their food is coming from,” Coffee said.
Jonathan Mabry, director of Tucson City of Gastronomy, said the success of farmers markets boosts tourism.
“Farmers markets contribute to Tucson’s reputation as a food destination,” Mabry said. “They help showcase the region’s unique agricultural heritage and culinary innovations, attracting tourists and visiting food enthusiasts.”
Mabry said crowds at farmers markets reflect a broader trend toward localized food systems and community-based economic development.
“Farmers markets in Pima County serve as important economic engines, supporting local agriculture, creating jobs, improving food access and contributing to the region’s cultural identity and tourism appeal,” Mabry said.
The Santa Cruz River Farmers Market, operated by the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona, is one example of how farmers markets prioritize accessibility for vendors. Amrita Khalsa, the farmers market network and advocacy coordinator for the food bank, explained their approach.
“The Santa Cruz River Farmers Market has a 10% vendor fee, which helps to make the market accessible to small businesses. Many markets have high vendor fees, which can be a barrier,” Khalsa said.
Khalsa also emphasized the importance of educating the community about the value of supporting local agriculture.
“We are helping to support the growth of
our local economy, while also teaching our community members the importance of supporting smaller businesses and the reasons local produce might cost more than what is found at grocery stores from large industrial farms,” Khalsa said.
With 20 weekly farmers markets operating in the Tucson area, they have become vital outlets for local producers. Mabry estimated that the top 10 markets are attended by almost half a million customers annually, evidence of their widespread appeal.
“During the busy season from November to April, we have over 10,000 weekly customers at our five markets combined,” Melnick said, speaking on the five markets operated by Heirloom Farmers Markets.
The market hosted by the Tucson Village Farm is also thriving.
“When we come back in the winter, it will be bananas. We make about $2,000 a market during those busy months,” Wilds said.
From providing a launching pad for small businesses to promoting sustainability and strengthening community bonds, farmers markets are a vital part of Tucson’s identity.
“Their growth and popularity here reflect a broader trend towards localized food systems and community-based economic development,” Mabry said.
In Tucson, these markets are ensuring that local businesses thrive, dollars stay within the community and residents enjoy a vibrant and connected way of life.
Arizona Sonoran News is a news service of the University of Arizona School of Journalism.
LIZZY SORENSEN | ARIZONA SONORAN NEWS
COMMUNITY MEMBERS STROLL THROUGH Rillito Park Heirloom Farmers Market on Nov. 24, 2024. The market is filled with local Tucson vendors selling a variety of goods.
Fall in Tucson
ATOMIC AGE ADVENTURES
OLIVE BRANCH
BY AMARA WILLIAMS
BY SELA MARGALIT
