Fairfield Mirror 3/30/2022

THE MIRROR Independent student newspaper

Week of March 30, 2022

Vol. 48 Iss. 17

New Townhouse Construction Causes Traffic Changes and Parking Frustrations

Red Sea Madness to be Hosted Off-Campus

By Max Limric Assistant News Editor

On March 22, at the Fairfield men’s lacrosse game, Fairfield University Student Association President Tyler Heffern ‘22 and Vice President Cailyn Fiori ‘22 announced that after three years, Red Sea Madness would return with Flo Rida performing.

In the days leading up to the game, emails were sent out to the student body, which alluded to a “special announcement” that was going to be made at the game. At halftime, members of FUSA were introduced to raise anticipation for the big reveal.

Fiori could be heard over the loudspeaker saying, “It’s been a long few years without some of our favorite campus traditions,” and cued the audience to take a look over to the big screen.

The video started by showing Red Sea Madness performers from past years, and then cut to three years later with the big announcement that Flo Rida is coming to perform for Fairfield University, on April 22.

According to an article by The Mirror, Lil’ Dicky, T-Pain, DNCE and Fetty Wap were all performers for Fairfield’s Red Sea Madness years prior.

However, the spring concert this year will be different due to the fact that it will take place off campus. The concert will be hosted at Hartford Healthcare Amphitheater instead of Alumni Hall like years past, due to current construction preventing such occurrence.

Heffern states, “when we had our budget we initially planned for Alumni Hall, however in order to rent out an entire venue it would be an extraordinary amount of money.”

Despite the event coinciding with a public event, Heff ern relays that FUSA acquired the whole floor for Kyler Erezuma/The Mirror students only separate from others attending the event.

More so, Fiori and Heffern state that holdConstruction in the Townhouse area began in the fall semester. Students were notified on March 10 that progress with the construcing an event at a public venue allows for bigger names tion of two new Townhouse blocks would cause traffic changes for the rest of the spring semester. to headline. Heffern explains that during the process, Department of Public Safety, brings up post spring break you can see even less the Hartford Healthcare Amphitheater “asked for a list

By Madeline West where students affected by the loss of park- spots are available. I think the new town- of artists and we gave them five big names, and they Editor-in-Chief ing in the Townhouse Blocks should park. houses are a great addition but honestly this chose one accordingly for timing and budget wise.”

By Max Limric

Assistant News Editor

On March 10, an email was sent out from the Office of Residence Life to students living in the Townhouse area regarding the construction of the two new Townhouse blocks.

The progress of t he construction was referenced in the email as the reasoning for the closure of a road and creation of a two-way road.

The parking area behind Townhouse Blocks 8 and 9 are now closed and there is no longer an outlet from Lynch Road onto Leeber Road. Lynch Road, which is adjacent to Townhouse Blocks 5 and 6 is now a two-way road to account for the lack of outlet to Leeber.

Captain Frank Ficko, from the

He states, “As a result of losing some townhouse “Yellow Zone” parking spaces, the overflow parking area remains the Jogues and Regis parking lots (Orange Zone lot).

He continues with “Townhouse stud e nt s are a l s o p e r m itte d i n l ot H 2 l o c a t e d o n M o o n e y r o a d .”

With the implementation of these changes, new concerns have been voiced around the lack of parking as students returned to campus after spring break and have had to acclimate to the new parking and traffic guidelines.

These changes to parking and traffic flow are not new concerns for students, as parking was already a concern before these changes had even been put into effect.

Junior student Caroline McConville says, “parking has been an issue and

Photo Courtesy of @mohegansun Instagram

whole year, parking has been problematic.”

Although the new Townhouses mean more housing options for rising Juniors, they are coming at a price to the residents living there this year.

Ju n i or Ha d l e y Wat e r bu r y expresses her frustration stating, “I have been looking forward to the privileges that come with being an upperclassman at Fairfield since freshman year.”

Waterbur y continues, “ The constr uc tion that is taking place by the townhouses has made having a car on campus quite difficult.”

She relays personal experiences and states, “It is incredibly frustrating to have a car that you are afraid to move after four o’clock because there CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

Tickets for the Fairfield University Student Association Sponsored 50 Nights to Graduation celebration at Mohegan Sun Casino went on sale Tuesday, March 29 at 12 p.m. The event quickly sold out within minutes leading many Seniors to feel frustrated at the lack of ticket availability. Later that afternoon, FUSA sent out another email to seniors offering an opportunity to place themselves on a waiting list, “Should a student return their ticket for the event.” Before this email was sent out students who were able to reserve tickets had already begun to sell their tickets to students who wished to attend. The 50 Nights event is set to take place this Friday, April 1 from 6:30 p.m. to midnight.

INSIDE

Mohegan Sun Casino Located in Uncasville, Conn.

“

Just being able to have the concert is something fortunate to do given the circumstances.”

- Cailyn Fiori ‘22, FUSA Vice President

Given the events of COVID not allowing a spring concert to occur for the past two years, Fiori feels that “just being able to have the concert is something fortunate to do given the circumstances.”

Student reactions to the choice of performer varied following FUSA’s reveal.

First-year Jennifer Pena isn’t concerned with who is playing and says, “I’m just ready for a good concert. It honestly doesn’t matter who’s performing.”

Other students are equally as eager just to be attending the concert, since last year’s Red Sea Madness event was canceled.

“I’m super excited for Red Sea Madness to be back, especially because we didn’t get to experience it freshman year,” says sophomore Elizabeth Decrisanti.

Other students genuinely enjoy Flo Rida’s music and appreciate him as a performer.

First-year Sam Flores says, “I’ve never seen him perform live, so I’m very excited to see what he brings to the stage.”

“I’m also looking forward to hearing some great throwbacks like ‘Low’ and ‘Wild Ones’.

I think it’ll be a really fun time,” Flores added.

Junior Renee Levesque is another fan of Flo Rida.

“I’m really excited for Flo Rida,” she says.

“I think he has a lot of well-known songs that are fun to sing and dance to,” Levesque continues, “so I’m looking forward to a fun concert with a high-energy crowd.”

FUSA’s Facebook page posted that Fairfield students will get “exclusive access to the Flo Rida concert” and to “stay tuned for further details.”

Vine

Sports

Fairfield University Visual and Performing Arts Faculty write a Letter to the Editor.

Mark your calendar for these fun Spring events!

Cheerleader Jenna Schlatter makes massive impact to teammates.

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News

Opinion

Learn about the Center for Family Justice’s Advocacy for Art Exhibit.

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News

THE MIRROR | Week of March 30, 2022

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Humanitarian Action Club Leads Stags to Make Global Impacts

By Madeline West Editor-in-Chief

The Humanitarian Action club is a student club that raises awareness on campus about humanitarian issues and builds strategies for responding to humanitarian crises.

On March 23, Magdalena Dutkowska ‘22 and Julia Neal ‘23 spoke about what the club offers as well as what they are doing with regards to the current Ukrainian crisis in their projects this semester.

Dutkowska has been a member of the club since her first year at Fairfield and has held a leadership position as a fellow since her sophomore year.

“Our club is different because we don’t necessarily have a club president and vice president… we just have leadership positions of fellows” Dutowska states. She continues, “these fellows share all responsibilities but there’s not a hierarchical set up like other clubs.”

Neal has been a part of the club since her first year and has served as a fellow since her sophomore year.

When asked what drew them to join the club both members shared the paths that led them to their current position.

Neal says her high school experiences drew her to join as well as the club fair her first year.

Dutkowska explains that before she started at Fairfield “there was a summer program that led students with diverse backgrounds to get a college feel where I found out about the Humanitarian Action minor. ” Dutkowska also mentions Julie Mughal, Ph.D., associate director for humanitarian action, was of help and “encouraged [her] to participate in the club, which is more of the engagement/ student participation side of the minor.”

Dutkowska continues to express how she “loved all the work we were doing and kept up with it and eventually got where I am today.”

Both Neal and Dutowska relay that the Humanitarian Action Club focuses its approach based on student interest in particular issues.

On Feb. 24, Russia invaded Ukraine and the past several weeks have consisted of a bombardment of the country’s cities and towns leading to 800 civilian deaths, destroyed infrastructure, and more than 3.3 million people fleeing.

The struggles and devastation does not appear anywhere close to being resolved and global action is crucial in aiding those being impacted. The Humanitarian Action Club has been working to assist with the crisis and has been able to raise funds to help.

Specifically, when asked about the crisis in Ukraine, Dutkowska states “with the whole situation, a lot of our club members are personally affected by the war going on.”

Photo Courtesy of @winetowater Instagram

The @wintetowater posted on Instagram their logo, and captioned “stand with Ukraine” in light of Russia’s ongoing invasion.

Magdalena Dutkowska ‘22 (left) and Julia Neal ‘23 (right), both fellows for the club helped host the club’s “Fall Fest.”

The club raised over $900 for the two refugee resettlment organizations CIRI and IRIS, as well as Girl Up through the event that took place in November 2021.

She continues, “we are really proud of how diverse Dutkowska explains that “whatever one of our club our club members are, we have so many international students and local students whose parents have international members is going through, we’re kind of all going through it backgrounds… so we felt that… we have to do something in in the sense, the amount of support the club and the Center for Social Impact gives us.” terms of helping our own families and members.”

The Center for Social Impact is the faculty and The club members first reached out to members to see if any of their family were in Ukraine or attempting to mentors who Magdalena states “are always supporting and flee Ukraine and if they needed anything directly, however guiding the students, whether it’s educational or through the club, which is just a great support system to have.” they were assured the family members were safe.

Both Neal and Dutkowska expressed future plans Next the club wanted to ensure that any organization they paired with all the proceeds made went directly to and hopes for the club.

Neal says she plans for the club “to continue advothose being impacted in the crisis. They chose to work with Nova Ukraine in which Dutkowska explains works “directly cating for different organizations and continuing to listen to out of Ukraine, and have been established even before the the students, and just becoming more involved in different organizations that we might not have known about.”

Ukrainian war crisis.”

Moreover, she wants to get “students and inviting The club set up a Facebook fundraiser since it would be easier to share with family and peers. Even more, Facebook students by letting them know that they can come and join was chosen as to not take out a percentage of the profit like us and our group that is made up of people from different backgrounds, and we really do advocate for everyone.” other companies, such as GoFundMe do.

Dutkowska shares similar sentiment as Neal but Through this fundraiser the club raised over $1,400, states the main goal for this semester is the Wine to Water raising $1,000 in just the first 24 hours alone.

Dutkowska states, “it showed how many people fundraising, in which different efforts will continue for stujust want to get involved in the community. It was really dents and faculty to take part.

If students would like to contribute, they are encourincredible.”

Neal continued to explain the club’s continuing aged to visit the Humanitarian Action Clubs instagram @ efforts reflecting back on last year’s collaboration with Wine fairfieldhumanaction and click on the link tree to be directed to Water. Neal explains “it is an organization that sends water to various fundraisers.

Additionally, if anyone is interested in joining, stufilters to third world countries so people can get clean water dents are encouraged to email humanitarianactionclub@gmail. access.”

The club has worked with Wine to Water before, but com to be placed on the weekly mailing list. they are working with this organization once more, while the efforts will be additionally helping Ukraine.

Neal also mentions that in future events such as a sticker booth and their website there is a direct link to donate to Ukraine.

Those interested in donating can go to https:// humanitarian-action-club.square.site/ to order custom stickers. Once ordered then send the image you want printed to humanitarianactionclub@gmail.com. With regards to jerky for anyone interested in buying a bag will be sold for 13$ and can be bought by venoming @Magdalena-Dutowska.

Students interested in getting involved in the club directly can visit the Humanitarian Action Club page at my. fairfield.com. There, students can receive weekly emails and information on meetings on Thursdays at 8 p.m.

Neal explains that students should join because “it is a group that does have this foundational want and need to help others.”

Neal continues that “it creates this kind of vulnerability…but also it creates a really safe environment.”

Neal further says, “I was thinking about transferring from Fairfield and this club really helped me stay because of the great tight knit community [and] being able to advocate for different organizations that people might not have heard of.”

“It’s a club where we really value the opinions and personal experiences of the students,” Neal states.

News

THE MIRROR | Week of March 30, 2022

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Students Push for More Parking as New Residences are Built Compiled by Max Limric Information contributed by the Department of Public Safety.

3/23 2:30 p.m.

A student reported their wallet and phone stolen from Trader Joe’s.

3/25 7:53 p.m.

A baseball went through the window of a Jogues Hall dorm.

3/27 12:15 a.m.

Two male students were documented for trespassing in the Convocation Center construction site.

3/28 4:00 p.m.

Two Gonzaga Hall residents were found in posession of merijuana and drug paraphernalia.

THE MIRROR Incorporated 1977

Madeline West, Editor-in-Chief Madison Gallo, Executive Editor Thomas Coppola, Managing Editor Editors Peyton Perry, Head News Anne Tomosivitch, Assistant News Max Limric, Assistant News Madeline Hossler, Opinion Brooke Lathe, Head Vine Abigail White, Assistant Vine Thomas Coppola, Head Sports Ryan Marquardt, Assistant Sports William McGuire, Assistant Sports Tristan Cruz, Coffee Break Staff Photographer Kyler Erezuma Business Department Email: info@fairfieldmirror.com Tristan Cruz, Chief Financial Officer Advisor Tommy Xie Contact Information Fairfield University 1073 North Benson Road, BCC 104 Box AA, Fairfield, CT 06824 General email: info@fairfieldmirror.com The Mirror is the recognized student newspaper of Fairfield University. Opinions and ideas expressed herein are those of the individual student authors, and not those of Fairfield University or its Board of Trustees

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

parking is prevalent in students minds.

is a good chance that when you come back you will not be able to park anywhere you are assigned and therefore you will receive a parking ticket.”

Sophomore Lauren Basso expresses, “I am excited that new townhouses are being built, but I wish our school would accommodate and create more parking lots as well.”

Basso continues, “Parking is already a challenge, and I’m sure this will only make it difficult.”

Current townhouse resident, Theresa Morrissey ‘23 added, “while I think it is important to build more places to live to help students from having to live in triples, I often find myself looping around the townhouses to find parking for long periods of time with no luck and it’s honestly so frustrating.”

In addition to the new townhouse blocks being constructed, a February 22 article published by the Mirror, stated that a new first-year dormitory in the Quad is in the planning stage and set to be built to accommodate for the rising number of accepted students.

Fairfield University Student Association President Tyler Heffern’22 also spoke upon the rise of student enrollment in connection with the parking issue and states “the rise in student enrollment reflects the university’s strategic goal of growing our community. However, as we have seen over the past few years, our resources are being overwhelmed and stretched thin.”

He continues to mention other ways in which the influx of accepted students has posed issues for current ones stating that “Tully lines during rush periods are longer than ever, appointments can become difficult to make with Counseling, Accessibility, and career-oriented offices, converted triples have returned, and of course there are more cars in our community than places to park them.”

“

It is incredibly frustrating to have a car that you are afraid to move after four o’clock because there is a good chance that when you come back you will not be able to park anywhere you are assigned and therefore you will receive a parking ticket.”

- Hadley Waterbury ‘23

She lives right next to the construction in a Townhous e on 6 Blo ck, w hich has posed even larger inconveniences.

“The [new] two way street [has] barely any place to turn around,” Waterbury continues “so if you risk driving down to see if there is a spot, there is a good chance that you will be forced to back out or get stuck with many cars behind you,” Waterbury said.

Ficko offers a timeline for the construction of the new Townhouses.

“I anticipate the current traffic configuration to remain in place through the end of the semester,” and that “completion is scheduled for the start of the Fall 22 semester.”

Ficko says that he is not aware of any complaints that have arisen because of the new traffic changes, but students around campus have voiced their concern, just not formally to DPS. Ju n i o r Ja k e C a r t i s a n o expresses that, “It’s an ongoing battle to park your car at the townhouses with less and less spots everyday.”

Similar to Waterbury, he noted the challenge of finding a spot later in the day.

“But don’t park your car in the wrong lot when there are no spots [where you have] a pass — they are quick to ticket you,” he added.

The Mirror also reached out to David Fransinelli, associate director of facilities with regards to how the administration is working to combat parking issues with rising accepted students and expansive construction, but no response was received.

Ad d it i on a l l y, w it h t h e ever growing population of students at Fairfield, the issue of

“

I am excited that new townhouses are being built, but I wish our school would accommodate and create more parking lots as well.”

- Lauren Basso ‘24

Heffern says that many students have voiced this frustration to FUSA regarding parking, “especially among Barnyard, Village and North Townhouse residents.” “ The principal problem at hand is that as new residence

spaces are being built and more students are being enrolled, there has not been a related increase in parking spaces” Heffern relays.

He continues, “this has put a considerable strain on the spots that already exist, especially events hosted by Athletics and the Leslie C. Quick Center have returned to in-person formats.

Heffern offers three approaches to be made to potentially combat the parking issues.

The first suggestion is building more parking lots or garages on campus. However, he acknowledges “this would put a further strain on our usable land, potentially destroy protected wildlife or faculty research areas and further diminish the ‘beauty’ of our campus green spaces.”

“

“The principal problem at hand is that as new residence spaces are being built and more students are being enrolled, there has not been a related increase in parking spaces” - Tyler Heffern ‘22, FUSA President

Secondly, Heffern acknowledges potentially relocating certain populations of the community to off-campus lots or garages for permanent parking with transportation to and from campus.

T he t h i rd opt i on He f fern expressed is “decreasing the number of cars arriving on campus every day, which may involve incentives for students to not bring their cars, or identifying alternative forms of on and off-campus transportation like bikes, scooters and Zipcars.”

FUSA has created the parking committee, which “is exploring all of these options and FUSA in particular has helped strategize ways of encouraging students to refrain from bringing their cars to school, results that likely will not be tested until next academic year,” Heffern states.

There will be a survey sent out to students regarding campus transportation in the future, and FUSA will continue to engage with administration on how to resolve some of the stress that comes with it.

If t h e re a re a ny c on cer ns t hat students have w it h parking, FUSA encourages students to email fusa@fairfield.edu.

News

THE MIRROR | Week of March 30, 2022

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Art for Advocacy Exhibit Planned in Honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month

By Peyton Perry Head News Editor The Center for Family Justice has partnered with the National Association of VOCA Assistance Administrators (NAVAA) for Sexual Assault Awareness Month and National Crimes Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) to host the traveling exhibit, “Art for Advocacy.”

The event is planned to take place at Fairfield University, Sacred Heart University, Housatonic Community College and the University of Bridgeport this coming April.

“

This inspiring project helps us spread that message that we are there to offer victims and survivors our free, confidential services,

- Debra Greenwood, president & CEO for the Center for Family Justice

Fairfield students, faculty and staff are now able to submit artwork for the Center for Family Justice’s public exhibit, which will promote public awareness of the support and resources offered to victims of sexual assault and other forms of crime, both on and off-campus.

According to Salaha Kabir, Fairfield University’s sexual violence and campus advocate, the exhibit will be displayed in the Dogwood Room located in the Barone Campus Center on April 4 and 5.

Geanella Suarez, Fairfield University’s bilingual sexual violence and campus advocate, first sent an email out to Fairfield students on March 9, which contained information on two of the main displays, “What Were You Wearing?” and “Survivors + Art Gallery,” as well as instructions detailing how to submit artwork.

In accordance with Suarez’s

email, the display, “What Were You Wearing,” is centered around showcasing the varying types of clothing that victims were wearing when they were secxually assaulted, all based on real “survivor descriptions.”

The purpose of this exhibit, according to Suarez, is to eradicate the “victim-blaming myth” that clothing can somehow “invite” one’s sexual assault.

The second display, “Survivor + Allies Gallery,” welcomes survivors and allies to submit art that is inspired by the NCVRW theme of rights, access and equity for all victims. Artists have the choice to further incorporate the NCVRW theme colors of blue, green and orange into their artwork, according to Suarez’s email, or submit creative writing like poetry.

When reflecting on her and Suarez’s roles as campus advocates, Kabir stated, “We want them [students] to be active. We want them to be the leaders on campus while we're just a support for them.” She further shared that they are always contemplating how they can do just that.

The two were first inspired to create and apply for a grant to host the public exhibit, “Art for Advocacy,” after seeing the rewarding outcome that bringing the “My Red Lips” campaign to Fairfield had. Kabir shared that over 300 affirmations and red lip cut outs were placed on their mirror, which traveled with them to all four college campuses.

This event led to the answer of their previous question: how can the University get students more engaged?

The two realized that tabling on college campuses and putting up posters was not as beneficial in raising awareness and support as actual, physical events like this one.

“Art for Advocacy” was the best thing because everybody has some creative talent to them,” said Kabir. “Whether you think you're an artist or not, there's something you can do to put into our exhibit.”

Kabir continued to speak of the purpose and hopes of the public exhibit that will be traveling to

“

One of the portions of our exhibit is to take a stance against violence. You don’t have to have been going through any form of crime to be able to come here and feel welcome,”

- Salaha Kabir, sexual violence and campus advocate

the four college campuses this April.

“This space is for students and for any members of the community, to use as a blank canvas to express themselves, bring in the issues and the language and representation of identities, cultures and communities that are invisible, that need more awareness of conversations that we need to have but are not having,” said Kabir.

Beth Fitzpatrick, community relations coordinator at the Center for Family Justice, shared a statement made by Debra Greenwood, president and chief executive officer for the Center for Family Justice.

“As we know, one out of five women and one out of 14 men have experienced sexual abuse as children. Unfortunately, we know that means there are survivors on our college campuses,” said Greenwood, according to Fitzpatrick.

“Getting out the message that we are there to support them through our Campus Advocacy Team is so important. This inspiring project helps us spread that message that we are there to offer victims and survivors our free, confidential services,” said Greenwood according to Fitzpatrick.

In addition to the two art displays, Suarez stated that there will also be a panel and resource fair, highlighting SAAM and other forms of violence including but not limited to human

trafficking, police brutality and hate crimes.

“This is not an exhibit just for survivors and victims, this is for allies as well,” said Suarez.

“One of the portions of our exhibit is to take a stance against violence. You don't have to have been going through any form of crime to be able to come here and feel welcome,” she said.

Kabir acknowledged how participation for this exhibit may be triggering to some, especially victims. She continued to offer some advice for such individuals.

“Think of your submission as a point of healing, as a point of connection, as a point of building communities and allies through your artwork,” she said. “ R e m e m b e r, just think of the positives of the submission that you present for us.”

Kabir further shared that April 26th is the “biggest day” for the public to attend the exhibit at Housatonic Community College, as not only will all four universities be in attendance to rally support for victims, but three panelists will also join to give their remarks.

Students, f a c u l t y, peers and other members of the Fairfield community can still register for the exhibit through the registration form shared within Suarez’s email.

This project was supported by a National Crime Victims' Rights Week Community Awareness Project subgrant awarded by the National Association of VOCA Assistance Administrators under cooperative agreement with the Office for Victims of Crime, Office of Justice Programs, and U.S. Department of Justice.

Annual Relay for Life Event Held In-Person for the First Time Since the Pandemic

By Olivia Burke Contributing Writer

Kyler Erezuma/The Mirror

Annie Nerger ‘25 (left) and Kristen Londergan ‘25 (right) pose at the Relay for Life event on March 25th. The event raised money for the American Cancer Society.

Relay for Life, a move- ceremony and cancer walk, pizza, ment dedicated to fighting cancer, games, giveaways, a D.J. and more. hosted their annual relay event “We had a duck hunt, last Friday, March 25 to fundraise a knockout game and a perfor the American Cancer Society. formance by Fairfield’s Dance For the first time in three Fusion,” Rodrigues recounted. years, the club hosted an in-per“After the ceremony, son event in the Leslie C. Quick, the events continued throughJr. Recreation Complex at Fairfield out the night; this included more University. Relay for Life tradition- raffle giveaways and an epic ally had not held any in-person musical chair battle,” he said. fundraisers since 2019, due to the Rodrigues shared furpandemic, Gabriel Rodrigues ‘22, ther, “We blew through our attena student-member of the Relay dance expectations and that was for Life club on campus, said. incredibly heartwarming to see.”

He further stated that “It looked like a sea of the event included a luminaria

purple... [members] from every facet of the community came” he stated.

Many students, faculty, parents and staff came to show their support. David Axelrod, cancer survivor and founder of the Relay for Life club on campus and Colleges Against Cancer was also in attendance.

The event lasted from 6 p.m. to 12 a.m., with the luminaria ceremony and cancer walk taking place at 9 p.m.

The ceremony included bags, which could be purchased and decorated.

Attendees filled their bags with glow sticks, each labeled with the name of an individual in remembrance of those who passed away from or are currently struggling with cancer.

T h e lu m i n a r i a c e re m o n y “. . . w a s i n c r e d i bly moving,” said Rodrigues.

“Dom Pappalardo gave a heart wrenching account of his fight with cancer, filled with his humor and will to live. This was followed up by a video speech by Peyton Siegel, Charlie Capalbo’s girlfriend, on the incredible strength and resilience Charlie exhibits, despite numerous life threatening complications.”

He added, “These speeches are a reminder that despite how hopeless we may feel at times, we should never ever give up hope,” he said.

Capalbo is a

We blew through our attendance expectations and that was incredibly heartwarming to see.”

“

- Gabriel Rodrigues ‘22 Relay for Life Club President member of the Class of 2022 who has battled cancer since 2017.

T h i s c e re m ony w a s a way to remember those who have passed from cancer, and

also to generate hope for those who are still fighting or know someone who is still battling.

This fundraiser took place on behalf of the American Cancer Society, an organization who will be donating 78 cents of every dollar raised during the event towards helping cancer patients.

Rodrigues shared that they were able to raise $22,000 altogether, which will lay the groundwork for future relays held.

Relay for Life served as one way for students to support the millions of people who are diagnosed with, or know someone who has been diagnosed, with cancer.

Rodrigues ended by sharing the gratitude he feels for all those who contributed to the event.

Kyler Erezuma/The Mirror

A student decorates a poster to be held up at the Relay for Life event in the RecPlex. Posters were held in support of those who have faced or are currently facing cancer.

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THE MIRROR | Week of March 30, 2022

Opinion

Editor: Madeline Hossler madeline.hossler@student.fairfield.edu

Culture of Inclusion Should be Set at the Top

By Olivia Rose Contributing Writer

It is important for students to be aware of how diversity and inclusivity is being displayed and exercised on campus.

A few weeks ago, the University unveiled its new Diversity and Inclusion Narrative for students and faculty to reference. Fairfield University President, Mark Nemec, Ph.D., has made it very clear that Fairfield University’s administration is discussing the removal of the “Black Lives Matter” flag from the Counseling and Psychological Services office window and how that coincides with the University's mission of welcoming diversity and inclusivity, hence the newest release of the reconstructed narrative.

The release of the new Diversity and Inclusive Excellence Narrative follows President Nemec’s recent presentation at the “A Community in Action: Sharing Our Work in and Commitment to Diversity and Inclusive Excellence” event that was held on Feb. 28.

At this talk, over 100 students and faculty members joined in protest of the removal of the BLM flag.

Further controversy has spread throughout campus through vessels including social media, word of mouth, flyers, etc. in regards to Nemec's response on the matter. One video, in particular, posted on the social media app Tik Tok has gained traction and currently stands at 63.4k amount of views and 2.9k likes as of March 27.

The video includes Nemec saying, “As a Jesuit Catholic University, our discussion welcomes socialist capitalists, distributed libertarians, anti-racist and anti-anti-racist per-

spectives, and all points across the spectrum characterized by rigor and intellectual honesty.”

The inclusion of “anti-anti racist perspectives” is what ultimately fueled the flame for discussion.

This statement has the potential to put a large dent in Fairfield’s name and what we stand for as Stags.

President Nemec also shared a more recent email with the University community following up on his reflections of the discussion that took place at the Feb. 28 event that further stirred up controversy on campus.

In his email he notes, “I am deeply sorry people are upset and I regret that my remarks while intended to advance the conversation have caused pain.”

In response to his regrets, Nemec plans to enter the next phase of initiatives as outlined

in the Narrative along with a commitment to recruit 175 students of color with the plan to increase that number to 200 students by the year 2027.

To me, diversity and inclusivity is the kind of environment where you don't have to feel sexualized, discriminated against, or belittled for your orientation, skin color, beliefs, etc.

I came from what I would consider to be a very progressive hometown where I am sure the removal of a Black Lives Matter flag would spark a riot or protest. Therefore, it is interesting to come to a school where most of the student body didn’t get involved. I am not sure if this message didn’t get out in time for students to react, or if there isn’t a large BIPOC community at Fairfield for the message to make a large enough impact, however, this event should have sparked more of a conversation.

While this is a dedicative effort to be

Creative Commons/ Pixabay

Ideas about diversity, equity, and inclusion in campus influence all aspects of student relationship.

Positive ideas about acceptance need to come from the top.

"Best Four Years" Doesn't Mean Best First-Year

By Peyton Perry Head News Editor

Looking back to my first year at Fairfield, there is so much advice running through my mind as to what to share with current students now – so many things I wish I would have known or someone would have told me.

I suppose what comes first to mind is to not expect it to feel like “the best four years of your life” as soon as you step foot on the campus.

So many parents and family members look back and share only the fondest memories of college, and I think that a lot of first year students come into Fairfield with very high expectations.

I remember coming to campus, for instance, and being fully confident that I would meet a group of friends, similar to those I met in high school. I would socialize every weekend, excel in my classes and have a laidback schedule, which would allow me the time to partake in countless shenanigans with my friends.

I remember think-

ing that everyday would feel like a sleepover with my roommate and new friend, and the possibilities were endless as to all the fun we would have together.

No one likes to tell you that your first year at college may actually be the hardest year of your life. Which for me, it was.

I found out that meeting that great group of friends can take a long time and that reinventing yourself isn’t as easy as you may think.

I found out that your roommate may cause more heartache than laughter and that the career plans I laid out for myself could unravel within an instant. I learned that people will come and go and classes take up a lot of your time, and that if you don’t actually prioritize spending time with friends you may find yourself never doing so.

I learned that being at rock bottom is the hardest and scariest thing to ever experience as an eighteen year old. But I learned and can see now, looking back, the beauty which quickly follows in

building yourself back up.

I learned that college may not feel like “the best four years of your life” when you're a first year or sophomore, but it is a time of growth. Everything may not feel right from the very beginning, there will probably be struggle, and that’s okay.

Because with struggle and pain, comes strength. You find your own voice, you repeatedly put yourself out there until you find that group of friends you can rely on, you take the time to try out different classes and pursue a major you love, and you simply focus on one day at a time.

I wish someone had told me that it was normal to be struggling my first year. I wish someone had reminded me to just take it one step at a time and everything would work out — because it does, everything works out.

Part of this was my fault, as I was embarrassed and I didn’t let many people see that I was struggling.

Choosing to be a New Student Leader as a sophomore to help first year stu-

dents transition t a u g h t me a valuable lesson. So many students struggle their first year and it's completely normal.

I think it honestly is part of the college experience and leads to a whole new level of maturity and grace. Sometimes you have to get through the storm to see the rainbow.

And whether or not you are struggling as a first year student or you met that great group of friends on your second day, none of it reflects your character or worth.

Everyone’s situation is different and it's honestly kind of a whole game of luck.

I guess if I were to leave you with one big piece of advice, it's to not be hard on yourself if you’re still struggling and to know that you will come out the other end stronger and more capable than you went in.

Sometimes it just takes a little time for college to feel like “the best four years of your life.”

Creative Commons/Fairfield University

The First Year Quad located towards the center of campus. All first-years live in this area, and it serves as the location for many of their first social experiences in college.

visually more inclusive, I am not sure how I would feel as a person of color knowing that it is only in response to a presumably racist remark that called for immediate reconstruction.

Diversity should encompass a set of predisposed values that coincide with concepts of inclusivity. In that, they go hand and hand.

There is an action component that I believe many people miss out on when they contemplate diversity. I believe it is our duty to be mutually informed about what groups are being discriminated against and take careful action in terms of how we can distinguish said discrimination.

In terms of action, Fairfield should consider offering more classes revolving around the concepts of diversity and inclusion. A common misconception about diversity is that we should be blind to our differences. However, it is imperative that as a Jesuit community, we need to celebrate our differences and welcome perspectives besides that of our own. This could also mean inviting more guest speakers to lecture on the importance of the effects of a lack of diversity on a college. This in turn, will produce a stronger inclusive environment.

The saying “see something, say something” can be applied in various ways. This could mean that you stand up to a peer displaying a racist, sexist, homophobic etc. remark that could potentially change their outlook on privilege. Or, reporting comments to administration that have the power to make a serious change.

We cannot keep turning our cheeks to this issue. We live in an ever-changing world.

As a community of higher education it is our civil duty to practice diversity and inclusivity.

Dear Fairfield Community,

The faculty of the Department of Visual and Performing Arts vehemently disagrees with the stance of our University's executive leadership concerning the recent removal of the Black Lives Matter sign. Indeed, the VPA faculty lives the mission of our institution, knowing that our values and actions speak louder than words. As artists and scholars, we build empathy, celebrate diversity and human dignity, and seek to discover fundamental truths. We use our innovative curriculum and arts events to explore our common humanity.

Despite the recent words from Dr. Nemec, we will continue to use the arts to reconsider outmoded beliefs and practices. We employ our creativity and open-mindedness as we nurture empathy and global citizenship, protest injustice, and empower all humans. We stand in solidarity with all members of the University community who strive to make Fairfield a more welcoming, more dignified, more respectful institution.

Black Lives Matter.

Sincerely, Department of Visual and Performing Arts: Marice Rose, Chair Suzanne Chamlin-Richer Philip Eliasoph Rob Hardy Martha S. LoMonaco Julie Leavitt Learson Meryl O’Connor Lynne Porter Katherine Schwab Brian Torff Jo Yarrington

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THE MIRROR | Week of March 30, 2022

Opinion

College Mental Health Challenges Caused by Many Outlets

By Brooke Lathe Head Vine Editor

Anxiety has always been present inside the classroom. Only in today’s world, we’ve finally turned what is considered to be a personal battle, into a widely popularized and normalized topic of discussion; which makes it seem like these occurrences have increased tremendously in the past few years.

With these types of conversations, it’s no longer difficult to pinpoint what exactly is attributed to these overwhelming feelings of stress. And because I am a part of the large group that struggles with these emotions, I feel as though I can easily separate why it’s caused into five categories: social media, lack of interest, fear, career pressure and other outside factors.

We are unfortunately in the generation where social media consumes our everyday life, so much so that I’m sure most of our screen time documentation is an embarrassing number to admit out loud. One app in particular, however, is a source of endless content that has grown incredibly toxic: TikTok. When I first downloaded the app in the summer of 2019, it was for pure entertainment–something to pass the time. I scrolled for a few minutes, chuckled, saved a few baking recipes that I saw or songs that I liked and exited the app without a problem. Almost three years later, I find myself instinctively reaching for my phone after doing five minutes of homework just because my brain would rather mindlessly scroll than focus on a page for an extended period of time. It’s embarrassing.

This awful habit is not only prolonging the work I have to get done and causing intense stress due to my procrastination, but the videos themselves also cause extreme thoughts of self-doubt. A common trend on TikTok are short, one-minute videos called “A Day in my Life”

Editorial Board "Dear Future Ed Board" MADDY WEST Editor-in-Chief MADISON GALLO Executive Editor TOMMY COPPOLA Managing Editor

where people show how productive they are and what they get done within a span of 24 hours. You find yourself in immediate comparison to another person you don’t even know who is attending an Ivy League school or works as a certificated surgeon that makes you think “wow they are so much better than me.” Maybe one would think these clips may come off as inspiring or invoke some sort of motivation into having a busy day like these influencers, but it just makes you feel inferior, pushing you into a further state of wanting to do nothing.

But in reality, we must remind ourselves that these people are strangers and are posting content that they have chosen to reveal in order to make themselves look good. We have no idea what actual battles they are struggling with internally and externally or if it’s all just for show. Although, it is easier said than done.

If it’s not social media, another source that causes anxiety is definitely trying to find the motivation to work hard in the classes you have no interest in. I can’t express how many times I felt helpless trying to desperately understand my notes for a Biological Anthropology exam or write my Asian Re-

ligions final when I’m an English major and these courses don’t actually matter for what I want to do in the future.

While the usual college student balances five classes, justo imagine how much harder it is to juggle when the subject is something you’re unknowledgeable about and have to seek further research on. It’s ridiculous.

Additionally, when you feel behind in these courses, it takes so much courage to raise your hand and confess that you are confused. Not only do you risk looking like you aren’t paying attention or receiving a condescending response from the professor, but you fear the repercussions of what your classmates will think of you. One of my close friends admitted to me that she participates in her Nursing courses multiple times each class, but in her core classes, she never asks a single question due to the panic of being judged by the teacher and students.

By not having the opportunity to address the subjects you’re having trouble understanding, you tend to fall behind on the material and do poorly on assignments – obvious reasoning for added anxiety since courses that don’t apply to your major are now decreasing your overall GPA.

Creative Commons/ Pixabay

There are a variety of factors that can impact the mental health of college students. Mental health challenges are experienced differently by everyone, and it is essential to be kind to others.

Something that additionally haunts me every day is the possibility of not attaining a job in my preferred career path. This recurring pressure inflicts a constant voice in my head saying that I need to do more, be better and work harder because if not, everyone else going for the same job I will, is going to beat me. This is an awful mindset to push on yourself because it only makes you feel more overwhelmed with something you’re not in control of, yet so many people think this way.

First-years and sophomores are racing to land internships when in earlier years that type of work was reserved for junior and senior college students.

But because the working field competition is insane, we’re forced to start building our resumes at an even younger age. What if we don’t even know what we want to do full time yet? Time doesn’t seem to be on our side anymore.

Lastly, there are so many other outside factors that play a role in added anxiety in the academic world. You will always have family situations, friend drama, health problems or financial issues that make it hard to focus in the classroom or on your homework. And even though every single person suffers from these instances, there’s often no leeway or accommodations to make it easier to balance with school.

Overall, we’re all so incredibly overworked and fearful of how we are presented to others that our mental health is drastically plummeting. We live each week counting the days until the next weekend or school break, instead of enjoying the present day that life has to offer all because of the anxieties the classroom brings to us. It’s devastating.

Maybe one day we can reach an understanding as a community to lower the pressure on every one since these mentalities don’t seem to end after college.

I just want everyone to acknowledge that we’re all desperately trying our best to be our best selves, and that’s all that matters.

You, Maddy and Tommy will self to the highest standards A letter to future happen.

So I ask you future achieve such greatness lead- of student journalism as posEdBoard, When thinking about what to do for my first Editorial Board piece I wanted to not only make it special, but something to look back on as we embark on this journey-as our incredible staff leaves behind an amazing legacy and putting the Mirror at such a high standard. I can’t help but to be both nervous and excited for this next chapter for the paper. Thus, here are Ed Board’s letters to our future selves, in 2023 as we lead the direction of the Mirror for the next year.

Dear Maddy circa winter 2023, how are you?

Currently you are working on your first issue as EIC, and it honestly has not hit you yet as you are trying to make sure everything is perfect, triple checked and ready to go for Tuesday. Even more so you want to be the best leader and even more so a friend to the new staff. The Mirror has never looked better and I honestly hope we keep the momentum going. The seniors who just left have been more than their titles in the office — they have all become true friends. I hope The Mirror has continued to be an office where that can

self, what have you accomplished? What stories have you told? What voices on campus have been given the chance to be heard? What memories were made in that office in the corner of the BCC? As your time for the Mirror comes to a close, make sure to take it all in, and look to the future with excitement as you turn to this new page in your life.

Hi Future Madison, as I write this, it feels surreal.

You only joined The Mirror a year ago, and you definitely never thought that the first year would go so quick. The next time you read this, your tenure at The Mirror will be coming to an end and I’m sure that will feel even more surreal than this transitional period does now. In just a year you have written over 40 articles, who knows, by the time you read this Future Madison, maybe you will have hit 100.

The Mirror has been more than a place of work and has been where some of my favorite memories in college have been made.

Future Madison, I hope that as your time at The Mirror winds down you can look back at all the work you have done and feel so proud.

ing the incredibly talented new staff and I am so excited for what’s to come for you and the staff. All over campus, the buzz has been surrounding The Mirror and people are recognizing the great work the staff has been doing and I hope that when you read this, people are even more interested in The Mirror and The Mirror continues to grow and improve. I have no doubt that this staff will continue the legacy that the graduating seniors have left behind.

I can’t wait to see the greatness this staff achieves and help be part of that greatness. I am nothing but proud of you for all that you have done at The Mirror and all that your staff members have done. Keep making me proud, keep doing what you are doing and keep the momentum the seniors this year are leaving behind.

Hello future Tommy!

If you’re reading this back at the end of your 2022-23 year of The Mirror, congrats on making it this far. What have you accomplished? Have you continued to make The Mirror a more transparent and responsible voice of the students? Have you held your-

sible? I sure hope you have.

What does the sports section look like a year from now, just out of curiosity?

As I am writing this right now, at the very beginning of my stint as managing editor, I have one thing on my mind. How will I fill the shoes of those before me? On our last staff, the managing editor position was held by two people as opposed to one (me). The workload seems a bit daunting, since now every role of those two is upon me, but I’m so confident that as you are reading this, all of your goals will be accomplished and that you’ve done amazing work up to this point. Maybe it sounds like I’m giving myself somewhat of a pep talk for the next few weeks, but hey, it’s going to be an adjustment. Change is scary sometimes.

In my first Editorial Board, I just wanted to take the chance to outline a few goals and aspirations I want to accomplish alongside Madison, Maddy, and our amazing, now-massive staff for the 2022-23 year. I can’t wait to share this experience with everyone, and I hope that my future self is happy with our progress over a year!

Puzzlemaker / Discovery Education

THE MIRROR | Week of March 30, 2022

The Vine

By Christian Mannino Contributing Writer

With spring right around the corner and warmer temperatures to follow, Stags finally have a chance to enjoy the outdoors once more.

Fortunately, there are plenty of events on campus for students to come together and enjoy the turning weather.

One of the most beloved events among Fairfield students is Clam Jam, an annual celebration for upperclassmen to enjoy the sun, friends and their semester finally coming to a close.

Beginning in 1987 and returning to Penfield Beach once more in 2022, the long-standing event offers a lineup of

live music, food, drinks, as well as beer for 21+ students.

Clam Jam will be taking place this year on April 30, so be sure to secure your tickets once they’re available!

There are plenty of other ways to get out and enjoy the beautiful weather, including campus hosted events such as the upcoming Wiffle Ball Home Run Derby.

Hosted by The Healthy House, the event encourages “everyone to come out with their best swings and enjoy some time outside.”

The derby will take place on Saturday, April 2 from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. between Townhouses 11 and 12.

There will be prizes available for the top three finishers, so be sure to make your way out!

Pong for the People is a water pong tournament that will be held with the intent of fundraising money for a local soup kitchen and food pantry.

The ten dollar entrance fee for each player entered in the tournament will be put towards a soup kitchen which is to be announced, a potential option being Prospect House in Bridgeport.

Pong for the People will be taking place on Sunday, April 3 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on 11 Block of the Townhouses.

Page 8

Be sure to bring a partner, as the tournament winners will each receive a 15 dollar gift card of their choosing to any restaurant in town!

Join the Find-A-Cure house on April 9 to participate in an Easter egg hunt for a good cause.

The entry fee to join is only five dollars, and all proceeds will b e donated to the Testicular Cancer Foundation.

Throughout the afternoon, eggs—with prizes such as candy and cash—will be hidden around lawn blocks 12 and 13 by the Townhouses.

If you’re lucky enough to find it, there will be a grand prize egg with a gift card to any local business in Fairfield!

The Easter egg hunt will take place in the afternoon on April 9 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. by Townhouse 113.

Join WholeHeartedly Me in enjoying the spring weather with some outdoor volleyball on Monday, April 11

By Rebecca Quigley Contributing Writer

Who doesn’t love a good April Fool’s prank?

Whether you’re putting a whoopee cushion on someone’s chair or bubble wrap under the rug, the holiday can bring a smile to anyone’s face.

When thinking about how this day of pranks came to be, I discovered that there has been some confusion regarding the origins of the holiday and how it’s cemented its place as a beloved holiday for the young and the old.

Historians have argued that the origin of the event dates back to 1582 when France switched from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar. In the Julian calendar, the new year is marked to begin around April 1.

Due to this, grand amusement ensued when the Gregorian calendar had changed the official start of the new year to Jan 1, and those who were unaware continued to celebrate during the last week of March.

These unlucky individuals became known as “April fools,” and were the victim of pranks such as having a paper fish placed

on their backs and being referred to as an “April Fish,” which is meant to symbolize a gullible person.

The holiday has also been linked to a festival known as Hilaria, which was an act of worship to Cybele, the goddess of fertility near the end of March.

Followers of Cybele dressed up in disguises and mocked fellow citizens while also playing games and providing entertainment.

Historical accounts of the Holiday report that it spread vastly throughout Britain during the 18th century.

In Scotland, it was celebrated as a two-day event, which began with “hunting the gowk,” where people were tricked into going on foolish errands and were referred to as a gowk, which is a Scottish term to refer to a foolish person.

This was then followed by Tailie Day, where fake tails and “kick me” signs were placed on people’s backs.

No matter how this fun holiday came to be, it’s obvious that it’s had a large impact and continues to be celebrated around the world.

Many countries have different rules

and traditions when it comes to taking part in the festivities.

In Greece, it’s believed that if you trick someone, you will have

good luck all year long. In England and Ireland, pranks can only be played before noon. Also specifically in

from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Taking place in the backyard of Townhouse 126, event organiz-

ers are excited to host once again, explaining, “We did this a lot in spring 2021 and felt like it allowed us to socialize and take a break from our phones and schoolwork, while also being a good form of exercise.”

Coordinators of the event hope to gather even more community members this year, so be sure to stop by if you can!

Be sure to keep up to date with Life@Fairfield to be notified when events like these are taking place.

With beautiful weather on the horizon, there will be plenty of opportunities to enjoy the upcoming season with fellow Stags!

Ireland, a false statement was made that you can only drive on the right side of the road.

Learning about April Fool’s mysterious history was almost as fun as the day itself !

Whether you’re planning an elaborate prank or a clever joke, I hope your April Fool’s Day is full of fun and surprises!

Page 9

THE MIRROR | Week of March 30, 2022

The Vine

By Brooke Lathe Head Vine Editor

The harsh truth is that these types of anxieties we get when trampled with responsibilities don’t ever leave. However, as we get older, we learn which actions work best for ourselves to diminish these feelings. Here are a few recommendations that I take part in whenever I feel overwhelmed, and hopefully can help you too!

Setting boundaries

I think the biggest factor that can make college students way more stressed than usual is trying to accommodate hanging out with friends or a partner when slammed with homework. But an important thing to remember is that you can say no! Most of the time, we agree to go out with friends because we don’t want to miss out on anything fun going on, but we fail to remember that it’s hard to enjoy your time out when you have a paper or test hanging over your head.

Passing out on a party to study or turn in an upcoming assignment might be the thing you just have to get out of the way. Or even better, try to work on your assignments earlier in the night and join your friends a little later. There have been a few times where I had to apologize for not being able to go into town on a weekend, but I ultimately felt more relaxed knowing that I was able to complete a handful of assignments instead. However, also make sure you allow yourself some free time as well. The key is finding your own personal balance between academics and your social life, which can be different for everyone.

Meditation

If you find that you do in fact already have a good balance in your everyday life, but just have lingering anxieties, meditation or yoga can be one of the most effective ways to relax your mind and body. Due to this, I love starting off my

By Abigail White Assistant Vine Editor

“Don Carlos,” the five-act grand opera, composed by Giuseppe Verdi, has come to the stage of the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts. In collaboration with the Metropolitan Opera, Fairfield University has put on a series of live screenings, bringing the experience of the Met Opera House to campus.

Being my second time experiencing the Met Opera through Fairfield’s live screenings, I thought I knew exactly what to expect. I could not have been more wrong. “Don Carlos,” I found, is an Opera that cannot be compared to any other, whether it is viewed on a stage or on a screen.

There were, however, a few familiar aspects of this live screening that I thoroughly enjoyed. First was the ambiance created before the show even began. Scenery of the Met Opera House was displayed on the screen as I entered the theater. I saw images of audience members taking their seats.

I heard the chatter of those anticipating the show. I heard the orchestra tuning their instruments in preparation for the brilliant music to come. Providing these aspects in the live screening made me feel as though I was there myself.

Another aspect of Fairfield’s live screening that is so special, is the backstage interviews with cast members, directors, set designers and musicians. It is one thing to view the opera, but it is another to get exclusive

day with a five-minute meditation sit. When you first wake up, put on soothing music, stretch and completely empty your mind. It should hopefully reenergize your body and in return, jump start your day with a freeing feeling. If it’s a nice temperature outside, I would definitely recommend taking the extra few minutes to walk outside, set down a towel and just breathe in the fresh air.

Take a walk

Another option when the weather gets warmer is to walk around our beautiful campus or town. It will give you some time to be alone with your thoughts to breathe, take in your surroundings or even listen to music. I am a firm believer that nature is one of the strongest healers for our souls.

Exercise

Exercise is not only good for your physical health but a huge aid in your mental health as well. Through running or lifting weights, you reduce the built-up adrenaline that is causing you stress. Additionally, wearing yourself down at the gym will calm your body and help you get a night of better sleep, which is an important factor in feeling more motivated and calm.

Shower

Lastly, talking to someone is probably one of the more important steps to reducing your stress. When you push down your feelings of stress, they will ultimately resurface at another point in time. Confiding in your friends, family or Fairfield University counselors can be more beneficial than you think.

I highly suggest trying at least one session to get any anxieties off your chest. Even if you don’t find any of the approaches they offer to be helpful, just having a person to validate your feelings can often be the only thing you need to feel better. You can sign up for a counseling and psychological appointment at fairfield.edu.

After trying this list of activities, I hope you are able to find a way to ease your mind when times start to feel overwhelming. Just remember that you are not alone!

Are you seeking any advice? Email Brooke at brooke. lathe@student.fairfield.edu or direct message our Instagram @fairfieldmirror to be featured!

This may sound like a weird recommendation, but I always find that just standing under the warm shower head will give me some time to think by myself. Something that I also find helps are HydraAromatherapy shower bursts that you can hang in your bathroom. There are multiple scents that you can choose from, however in this case the “relax” burst would be the most helpful, and when it gets wet, the smell will put you at ease.

Talk to someone

insight into the actual production of the show.

Hearing truthful opinions and insights from the people who put this performance together is something that cannot be seen by audience members at a live show.

For those who are unfamiliar with the plot, “Don Carlos” is a tale of forbidden love among royalty set against the backdrop of

father due to a treaty arrangement. Through five powerful acts and beautifully composed music, audience members are taken on a journey of doomed love and a fight for peace.

It never fails to amaze me, the ways in which music can convey such strong emotions. Giuseppe Verdi’s composition for “Don Carlos” is no exception. Verdi master-

the Spanish Inquisition. It tells the story of Don Carlos, the Spanish King Philippe’s heir and his love for Élisabeth, the daughter of a French king. While both love each other, Élisabeth is bound to marry Carlos’

fully weaves together melodies to signify different emotions. The music was soft and melodic when Carlos and Élisabeth would express their love for one another. In contrast, the music would intensify at times to

match the chaos of the action on stage. I could truly feel the pain, heartbreak and agony that Carlos and Élisabeth felt in being apart as they sang harmonious melodies against the backdrop of a cheerful choir. While the rest of the world rejoiced, Verdi made sure we, as audience members, could feel the internal pain of these characters.

What was so special about this particular performance was that it was performed in its intended French as opposed to its typical Italian. Actors, Matthew Polenzani and Sonya Yoncheva, who play Carlos and Élisabeth confirm just how special it was to perform this work in the beautiful French language, the language that Verdi has originally wrote the opera in. Conductor Yannick Nézet-Sénguin claims in an interview during the intermission, that the melodies of this work are no less beautiful in Italian, but are more understandable in French. He claims that the lyrics “flow better” in French as well.

I cannot serve justice to this work in a mere review with its intricate melodies, its complex themes and its flawed characters.

“Don Carlos” is meant to be experienced on the stage. It is a work that one must experience for himself or herself. Though I thoroughly enjoyed my introduction to the “Don Carlos’” here at Fairfield, I would love to experience it live on the Met stage one day.

The Quick Center has once again done an outstanding job of bringing the experience of the Met to campus and I now have another opera to add to my list of must-sees in the future.

THE MIRROR | Week of March 30, 2022

The Vine

By Brooke Lathe Head Vine Editor

Since dropping the masterpiece “Pony” in 2019, fans have been anxiously awaiting any new Rex Orange County music. However, it wasn’t until Jan. 26 when Alex O’Connor (a.k.a Rex Orange County) announced on his Instagram that his new album, “WHO CARES,” would drop soon, driving the anticipation even further. Finally, on March 11, his fourth sensational record was released on all platforms–exceed-

ing everyone’s expectations as it is an absolute no skip album.

The record is composed of 11 songs, three of which were revealed prior to the album release (“KEEP IT UP,” “AMAZING” and “OPEN A WINDOW”). While I will forever suggest to anyone I converse with to listen to the entirety of this absolute gem, these are my top five favorite tracks that you just have to give a listen.

WORTH IT I’m going to go out on a limb and say that “WORTH IT” is my favorite

song so far. I just haven’t been able to get it out of my head for the past week!

The song opens up with a stunning introduction that’s 48 seconds long. At first, only solo strings play, then wind instruments are added and finally a groovy drum beat (which makes the song in my opinion). As for the lyrics, which Alex usually puts his entire heart into, I feel a special connection with this melody.

He sings, “You can choose to get upset or just get over it, it’s up to you; what do you wanna do,” and ends with “it’s not worth it anymore,” which almost puts all of my lingering anxieties at ease. Although it’s nothing too profound, it’s a beautiful reminder, and the gorgeous instrumentals make it all the better.

SHOOT ME DOWN If not on the same level as “WORTH IT,” “SHOOT ME DOWN” is a very close second to being my favorite track. It’s a different style we don’t normally hear from O’Connor, bringing out more of a soul vibe.

However, listeners still get the same raw voice and unique composition we all know and love. The jazzy piano lines and melodic riffs also add such a perfect touch to this type of tune. This will definitely be one of my night driving songs that I belt with the windows

seniors entered their last year with ideas or goals of where they would wish to travel to as one of their final hurrahs with friends, Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there and these two spots were at the top of the has not been a normal spring break in quite majority of the people’s minds. some time. Last year, seniors at Fairfield While spring break was a great time enUniversity took Easter Break to be their joyed by many, there were some good parts spring break, which posed many challeng- and bad parts. Traveling to Florida proved es for a final spring break experience. This to be much easier for seniors, as it was still year, however, the senior class of 2022 was in the United States and a negative COVable to finally have a bit of normalcy.

ID-19 test was not required to travel.

There were two main destinations for When going to Mexico, however, that the seniors of Fairfield this year: Fort Lau- was a much bigger ordeal-you needed to derdale, Florida and Cancun, Mexico. Many have a negative PCR test to be able to return to the country.

Gwyneth Gaynor, a senior at Fairfield, spent her spring break with close friends in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She spent the week with her friends, relaxing by the beach and pool, and going out at night.

“I think the best part of the trip was just enjoying the warm weather and making memories with my friends,” said Gaynor.

However, there were still some difficulties that came along with the travel. The week of spring break this year diPhoto Contributed by Gwyneth Gaynor rectly aligned with many other colleges, making Gwyneth's hotel view in Fort Lauderdale. the popular spring break

By Erica Salisbury Contributing Writer

down and I’m not ashamed to say it!

THE SHADE I think it’s safe to say that this is my new comfort song. If it were possible to physically wrap myself in any sound possible, it would be this. The warm tone, catchy guitar chords and soft melody make for a flawless track.

Even further, the chorus proves to be such a heart-felt ballad that truly tugs at the heartstrings.

It is assumed that O’Connor sings “I would love just to be stuck by your side; not with anybody else, not with anybody else; It’s enough just to keep us occupied; please don’t go,” about his recent ex-girlfriend of seven years, Thea Morgan-Murrell. I can’t help but tear up but also feel in awe of his unfiltered, open beliefs.

MAKING TIME Like most of his other tracks, “MAKING TIME” starts with a longer introduction composed of an orchestra, which leads into his vocals. Yet, the main instrument in this song is a solo guitar with only Alex’s voice. There are no words to describe it except that it is merely beautiful.

I wish it were a little bit longer because it’s just under two minutes, and I absolutely love the meaning behind it.

However, I can appreciate the simplicity of just the six lines: “making time, just

Page 10

to see you; we’re safe inside, you make things right; so don’t wait up, I’m ok, I’m ok.”

ONE IN A MILLION “ONE IN A MILLION” is another song that brings a “soul” touch with it, and maybe even a dash of R&B. The light piano paired with the drums underneath O’Connor’s slow vocal descent makes for an entirely too catchy song.

While the recipient of this tune is “one in a million,” he hopes to prove that he is enough, and that it is something he hopes they agree with–a scenario with which most people are familiar with!

My honorable mention has to be “7 AM” because the upbeat chords contrasted with the not-so-happy lyrics will always be a combo I’d die for. However, as I said before, every single song on this album is breathtaking, and ranking them was probably one of the harder things I’ve had to do.

I am super excited to say that I secured pit tickets for the “WHO CARES” tour in Queens this May, and there are no words to describe how insanely shocked I am that I get to watch Alex O’Connor live. Attending one of his concerts has been on my bucket list for years and I am incredibly thrilled to live it out and especially to such an amazing album. Rex Orange County, here I come!

destination of Fort Lauderdale even more popular.

“The worst part of the trip was the overpriced average meal,” Gaynor said, “along with the volume of people making going out to eat difficult, as well as with any other popular spots.”

The lines and pricing of food were a very big debate throughout spring break trips. Her and her friends also decided to either order food to their hotel some nights, or eat at the restaurant in their hotel Photo Contributed by Emma Wagner after waiting almost two hours to get dinner in Emma shares her view of Cancun. the downtown portion of what you consume, especially when it comes Fort Lauderdale. to water, which can make you very sick.

Emma Wagner, another senior at Fair- There are also not many options for food, field, spent her spring break at an all-inclu- and no other places really around to be able sive resort in Cancun, Mexico. She spent her to find other alternatives. time there also at the beach and pools, as “The worst part of the trip was definitewell as enjoying the all-inclusive experience ly the food,” said Wagner, “it was really bad without having to worry about paying for and not very edible, so it was hard to find other things. things to eat a lot of the time.”

“I would say the best part of spring All in all, spring break trips are meant break was being able to just be at the beach to make memories with your closest friends, all day and being in the sun,” said Wagner. which is exactly what both seniors did.

However, even when an all-inclusive There are trials and errors that come seems like a great time, there are some chal- with planning a trip, and while you can do lenges that go along with it. In a country like a lot of research beforehand, sometimes you Mexico, you have to be extremely careful of won’t know what you get until you’re there.

Page 11

THE MIRROR | Week of March 30, 2022

The Vine

It's Time To Forego Fast Fasion

By Erica Salisbury Contributing Writer

In today’s global climate setting, more and more people are trying to find better clothing options compared to the wasteful ways of fast fashion. While fast fashion and online retailers like Forever 21 and SHEIN are extremely popular, especially among college students, there are ways to be sustainable while still helping the environment.

While sustainable fashion may be a little bit more pricey in comparison to the typical fast fashion shopping category, these clothing styles are meant for everyday use and never go out of style. They are built to last; not just a “fad” for one season. With that being said, here are several clothing stores that help with the planet, and make you still fashionable.

Madewell Madewell is a great option for college students who need clothing for every possible event-class, work, holidays, pretty much anything! They are overall a great brand that makes quality clothing and offer a 20% off student discount which adds up a lot. Most of their clothing is made from recycled materials, and they even have a program with their jeans that helps.

If you bring in an old pair of jeans, no matter the brand, they take that pair of jeans and turn it into insulation for low income housing. In return, the customer is awarded a $20 coupon that can be used on a pair of new jeans to purchase. Madewell jeans are

By Tommy Coppola Managing Editor, Head Sports Editor

“The Batman,” directed by Matt Reeves, is the latest installment into the Batman franchise.

As a standalone film, the film exists as its own being, not being bound or dragged back by any specific universe (like Ben Affleck’s rendition of Batman suffered from, in my opinion).

In the last decade, we’ve seen many big-name actors don the cowl, from Christian Bale in “The Dark Knight” trilogy directed by Christopher Nolan to Ben Affleck bringing a new perspective in Zack Synder’s creative universe.

Robert Pattinson, however, is the latest to take on the mantle, and as you’ll probably figure out from reading this, the best.

At this point in the article, there will be spoilers; if you haven’t seen the film yet, go buy yourself a ticket and come back here when you’re done watching. I will say that the film expects that you’re going into the theater with some general knowledge of the Batman franchise, so brush up now before reading my take.

“The Batman” is a dark and gritty film that opens up on a dark and stormy Halloween night in the fictional Gotham City, where

my absolute favorite, and they are truly meant to last for years.

Known Supply Known Supply is another great option for fair-trade, sustainable clothing. They have both a men and women’s selection to choose from, and most of their items are reasonably priced. They have a lot of nice options with fabric locally sourced, as well as offer a collaborative approach for each item made.

Every piece of clothing is hand signed and the customer is given a little bit of in-

all Batman films take place. Our protagonist, the young, rich and antisocial billionaire Bruce Wayne narrates his thoughts and what the city needs from him. It is clear from the beginning that this is the most dangerous setting of Gotham we’ve ever seen; not only is crime running rampant, but the city is clearly skeptical of Bruce/ Batman from the very beginning. The only person who trusts Batman is Lieutenant Jim Gordan, an investigator for the Gotham City Police Department; their trust in each other is one of the most important ideas in the whole film, showing that Batman has at least one important figure in his corner with a mutual interest in cleaning up the streets.

This Gotham City feels different than past versions, since it doesn’t look like any city in the United States; Nolan’s “The Dark Knight” simply looked like New York or Chicago. Reeves makes sure to include every single small detail to make it feel as unique as possible.

Pattinson’s performance as both Bruce and Batman is incredible; he makes both alter-egos of the character come to life through making them look, sound and feel both antisocial and brooding. Although this movie doesn’t show his parents’ death like most flashbacks

formation about the person who made the piece, which brings back the human added value to making clothing compared to fast fashion factories that resort to using cheap labor, and in some cases, children. This brand is a great one to take a look at.

Tentree Tentree is another great option for someone looking to lighten their eco-footprint. They are a Certified B Corporation, which means that they hold one of the highest standards a company can have ecologically. With every item purchased, the com-

in other Batman movies (which is quite refreshing, honestly), the motive of the Wayne family legacy is still an extremely present motif throughout, and Pattinson’s acting shows both the sadness and anger that you would hope from the character.

Other worthy performances of note are those of Zoe Kravitz, who plays Selena Kyle/Catwoman, as well as Paul Dano who plays a modern and incredibly twisted version of The Riddler.

Catwoman is played perfectly

by Kravitz, who not only works well as the love interest to Batman, but also as the character of questionable morals who acts on her emotions over what is right. Dano, on the other hand, is the creepiest and most fitting person to take on the role of the Riddler, who leaves a trail of crumbs for Batman to follow the whole movie. The movie was refreshing in this way, since it felt almost like I was watching a true crime/detective movie as opposed to a superhero movie.

This section will have spoilers about the plot.

Breaking it down, the movie starts by showing the motives and intentions of the Riddler, and opposingly shows

pany plants 10 trees, which definitely helps the environment in the long run.

They also practice ethical manufacturing, which means that their products are created in a fair, safe working environment which also pays off for the employees making the clothing-they are not breathing in harsh dyes or fumes that can come from fast fashion. They also use the most sustainable materials and offer men’s, women’s and children’s clothing.

Boody Eco-wear Since COVID-19 began, there has been a huge skyrocket in sales of athleisure and loungewear sets for Boody Eco-wear. This company primarily makes both, as well as lines for men and children. Their fabrics are derived from bamboo and are free from pesticides, fertilizers or artificial irrigation, which definitely helps to put the earth in a better condition.

Their clothing is fairly priced, considering the ingredients that go into making their products and what they are free from.

The next time you go to order a new loungewear set, take a look!

More people have become conscious shoppers when it comes to ways that can help out the earth and protect its precious resources.

Fast fashion monsters like SHEIN have definitely not helped out, and while we all know that it can be hard to not automatically look there for a new round of going out tops, there are better options. You just might have to look a little bit harder!

Batman doing his thing cleaning up the streets of any crime.

The Riddler’s main goal is to take down Gotham City’s “underbelly,” meaning the corruption inside of the police force, the mayoral candidates and every other department of the local government you might imagine.

It is revealed that Gotham is being run by a crime ring headed

by Carmine Falcone, who made various deals with Burce Wayne’s late father. Batman must take on two fights at once: the first, putting an end to corruption in the city, and second, stopping the Riddler from taking innocent lives.

I sincerely hope that Reeves and company are aiming to start a sequel to this film, since I can’t get enough of it. I also very much hope that they put a new, dark

twist on villains that we have seen in the past, or ones that they have not experimented with as much.

As a suggestion, I would say to move past the now-overused Joker and give new enemies like Clayface or even Black Mask a chance on the big screen. There is an entire world of untapped potential and opportunities for DC, and I hope that with another movie or two, they are able to make this happen.

Photo Courtesy of @thebatman Instagram

Coffee Break

THE MIRROR | Week of March 30, 2022

Page 12

Coffee Break Satire, games, Puzzles and More Editor: Tristan Cruz tristan.cruz@student.fairfield.edu

The Batman Word Search Batman

James Gordon

Riddler

Thomas Wayne

Penguin

Bruce Wayne

Carmine Falcone

Martha Wayne

Gil Colson

Robert Pattinson

Alfred Pennyworth

Catwoman

Zoe Kravitz

Creative Commons / Flickr Discovery Education / Puzzlemaker

A Very Stag Spring Introduction Nick Silvia, Contributing Writer

Welcome back, Stags! After a nice, restful break where some of us traveled to Florida, others to the Bahamas, and still others woke up in a midsize sedan in Atlantic City, Spring Break has sadly ended. With campus back in full swing and class back in session, us educationloving students have something else to look forward to: Easter Break.

Now that it’s officially spring and warming up outside, there are plenty of fun Easter activities to participate in, including Easter egg hunting. For everyone who loved egging the Sacred Heart library on Halloween, you can put a spin on the perennial classic egg hunt while getting in your egg fix by hiding hard boiled eggs in the many nooks and crannies throughout the very same building.

On the other hand, for those who prefer a more traditional egg hunt (or first years, who don’t know how to hard boil an egg), the Tully will be hiding plastic eggs filled with mashed potatoes and vanilla soft serve throughout the hall - which can also be thrown at the Sacred Heart library.

FUSA was also planning on hiring an Easter Bunny to spread joy around campus, but much like the 2019 Fall Concert, did not have enough money for Post Malone. Deciding that few students would be on board to see Fetty Wap dressed as the Easter Bunny, they deferred to Lucas, who will now be the Easter Stag instead.

“Why is this bunny suit filled with hard boiled eggs?” said Lucas, unaware that I found the costume before him.

SPORTS Sports

THE MIRROR | Week of March 30, 2022

Sports Editors: Tommy Coppola >>thomas.coppola@student.fairfield.edu

Billy McGuire >>william.mcguire@student.fairfield.edu

Page 13

Ryan Marquardt >>ryan.marquardt@student.fairfield.edu

The Mirror's Athletes of the Week Photo Contributed by the Sports Information Desk

Photo Contributed by the Sports Information Desk

Jack McKenna The first-year standout has been on fire lately, netting seven goals in his last two games. The attackman is fearless and a very gritty player, especially when near the net. He takes careful shots and clearly, with only nine shots on goal in those two games, is shooting at an incredible high percentage. The Fairfield native has clearly found himself a home with the Stags not too far from his own place of residence.

Charli Warren This first year athlete is also having a standout rookie campaign. Batting .360 in her high school campaign according to her bio on fairfieldstags.com, she has clearly not let up since, collecting a great amount of hits in her first taste of collegiate softball. Against Stony Brook, she also brought in 2 RBIs and a single run of her own, proving herself as one of the most impressive athletes of this week.

In this week's issue...

- McKenna, Corasaniti Shine in Out-Of-Conference Play (Page 14) - Seniors Say Goodbye to Stags Hockey (Page 15) -

-

Softball Falters In First Two Contests (Page 15) Stag Spotlight: Jenna Schlatter (Page 16)

- Stags Stifle Pioneers Before Stepping Into MAAC (Page 16)

Sports

Page 14

THE MIRROR | Week of March 30, 2022

McKenna, Corasaniti Shine in Out-Of-Conference Play

By Billy McGuire Assistant Sports Editor

both the level of focus and a lack of how we can possibly be a half step In addition to looking for ways attention to details played a role in the faster on defense and just be ready for to improve on the field, the strong tough loss. what they’re going to throw at us so team chemistry that the team has will “I think they were a strong that we can minimize their offensive be vital to keeping the overall team team. I think we went into it probably ability,” Corasaniti explains. morale at a high level. The two playnot as focused as we could’ve been, “Yeah, like coach said, offeners have credited teammates such as and I think we just needed to kind sively we’re going to kind of get back senior midfielder Kyle Borda for his of dig in and focus on winning the to the basics, kind of harp on those at-times, suspect antics for their congame,” Corasaniti says. “I think we basics, and get better on those, and tributions to maintaining a family-like came out a little slow and they took that’ll help us build on our complicatatmosphere. advantage of that and I think we’re ed stuff,” McKenna says. “We need to “I think we’ve all been great. I able to learn from that for our next recommit to those basics and get betthink that things have been going well game against Hofstra which will be ter as well as everything else.” in terms of chemistry,” the senior goaltender says. “[Kyle] Borda has always big.”

“Speaking offensively, we talked got something to say and he’s been about it today as an offensive group hilarious and has helped make the and as a team we have got to hit our locker room a better place.” details, which the coaches preach “I think for me, especially being a freshman, those guys have really every day and just get back embraced us and helped us along, to what makes us Fairfield especially in the fall when gearing Lacrosse,” McKenna says.

“We just need to do a better up for practices and everything,” the job finishing, creating shots, finfreshman attackman and midfielder ishing shots, just doing all of those explains. “And just with our things. We learned a lot from that entire transition, the game and I’m hoping now we can upperclassmen go into the next game with a new have really helped mindset and use it as a reset.” all of us and it’s “Our takeaway from this been a great locker one is that we need to be focused room, a lot of fun. We’re and adhere to our details,” head all really good friends and coach Andrew Baxter says. “Every it’s been good so far.” opponent is going to be prepared and Both players acknowledge that has talented players, and we need as the team continues through their to put ourselves in a position to be season, they will have each other’s successful every time we step on support in both the high and low moments. They recognize that there is the field.”

Notwithstanding the brutal a lot of lacrosse to be played and that loss, the Stags are moving on to they want to keep finding ways to imHofstra, and have already begun prove. As they embark on the second preparing for their next oppohalf of the regular season, the Stags will look to continue the dominance nent.

“So seeing how Hofstra plays, shown from the first half. from a defensive standpoint, how First-year Jack McKenna looks to pass the ball. their offense plays, we’re working on

What is your favorite movie?

If you could have any animal as a pet what would it be?

sk Information De

Because we have witty things to say ...

by the Sports

Weekly 4x5

uted Photo Contrib

Before meeting the Red Storm of St. John’s, the Fairfield University men’s lacrosse team was on a roll, winning three consecutive contests against the likes of Quinnipiac University, Binghamton University, and Providence College.

During that stretch, key players such as senior goaltender James Corasaniti and promising first-year hybrid attackman and midfielder Jack McKenna played major roles in leading the Stags to victory. Corasaniti made a total of fifty-nine saves in those outings, including an impressive twenty-three against Providence.

When asked about his stellar performance, he said focusing on keeping things smooth and keeping a strong mentality enabled him to be successful.

“I think from a fundamental standpoint with the goalie position, you can kind of break it down into just trying to see the ball and saving the ball,” the goaltender says. “We always try to just break it down as simple as it can be. Over the past couple of months I’ve been working on saving the ball low, stepping through, and stabbing the stick low in order to smooth the ball up. I think when it comes down to it, just being mentally prepared and focusing on making the next play and save is important.”

Corasaniti, a senior out of Fordham Preparatory School in New York, recognizes the importance of winning and achieving something special. One of the goals he and his teammates

would like to achieve is winning the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) title.

“I think this season is really important. Just all of us are chasing, winning,” he says. “We really want to win the CAA. We want to make a statement so that we can really stick out and just give Fairfield that recognition in the CAA. It’s a difficult conference, but we always have a chance to win and I think this year with this team, we really have something special and something that we can do.”

McKenna, a first year, is a promising player with high potential that should be a force to be reckoned with. The hometown product has twenty-nine goals already this season, including thirteen in that three-game stretch. When pressed about the transition to the Division I level, McKenna didn’t blink any eyes.

“It’s essentially been different but it’s been a lot of fun. I’ve met a lot of friends so far and the older guys have really helped me along the way, such as [redshirt sophomore] Bryce Ford and Patrick Drake [‘22], they’ve been a great help to me,” the firstyear, do-it-all player says. “They have helped show me the ropes and have helped me realize that at the end of the day, you’re just playing lacrosse and you’ve played this your entire life, so you’re going to be just fine.”

Despite their success, the Stags faced off against the Red Storm of St. John’s on the evening of Tuesday, March 22, on Conway Field at Rafferty Stadium. Although they put up a good fight, they fell a little short in a 17-14 defeat.

Both players, along with head coach Andrew Baxter, agreed that

Your 2022-23 4x5 Columnists: Tommy Coppola, Maddy West, Madison Gallo, and Peyton Perry If you had a million dollars, what would you spend it on?

What is your favorite sport?

What is your favorite restaurant in Fairfield?

Tommy Coppola Managing Editor, Head Sports Editor

Interstellar. If you’ve never seen any of Christopher Nolan’s movies, you need to.

In all honesty, I think a Koala would make an amazing pet.

Begin to pay off some of my student debt.

Lacrosse, there's just nothing more exciting to watch or play.

Colony Grill. I know that might sound cliche but I grew up going there so it's a no brainer for me.

Maddy West Editor-In-Chief

The Goonies and Stand

by Me.

Anything but a bird.

Definitely give a lot of that back to my parents.

Miniature Golf.

The Tully.

Pretty Woman, How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, High School Musical 2, Gone Girl, Bring It On — I have range.

An elephant.

Pull a Mackenzie Scott and donate a lot of it to good causes. After that, travel the world.

My sister does Track and Field, so I’ll say that because I love watching her.

The Little Goose for brunch but Centro or Quattro Pazzi for any other meal.

Five Feet Apart - I’m a romantic.

Donkey from Shrek.

Make sure my parents are taken care of, plan a trip to Greece to reenact Mama Mia, and then put the rest in savings.

Soccer would have to be my favorite by far

Metro by far… their rigatoni alla vodka is the best!

Madison Gallo Executive Editor

Peyton Perry Head News Editor

Sports

Page 15

THE MIRROR | Week of March 30, 2022

Seniors Say Goodbye to Stags Hockey

Photo Courtesy of @fairfieldhockey Instagram

The seniors and fifth-year srudents on the Fairfield University club hockey played in their final game before graduating, which was a loss by a score of 5-4 against Binghamgton University.

By Zachary Stevens Contributing Writer While Fairfield University may not have an official Division I hockey team, the school’s club team was one of the best in the nation this year, ranking top five in the entire country on numerous occasions.

Along with their extremely high national rank, the Stags also finished third in one of the most competitive conferences in club-level hockey, The Empire, which earned them a spot in the National Club Hockey Tournament in Philadelphia, Pa. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there was no national tournament for club hockey last year, but two years prior, the Stags were yet again one of the top teams in the nation and traveled to Dallas, Texas, where they faced some of the best teams in the nation.

Fairfield hockey is a system that is clearly built to win and is a legitimate pro-

gram, but winning is not the only focus on this team. What they favor more is family, which is emphasized by forward captain Jack Stanton ‘22.

“Fairfield Hockey has been everything I have hoped for and more,” described Stanton. “It has given me countless memories, lifelong friendships, and the opportunity to continue playing the sport I love. To be able to represent this team as a captain was nothing short of a great privilege.”

Stanton, who joined the team as a first-year, captures what it means to be a member of the Fairfield University hockey team, a true leader on the ice. Now that his collegiate hockey career has come to an end, he was able to think of some of his favorite memories while playing for the team.

“The final game of pool play at Nationals in Dallas my freshman year,” said Stanton. “We were down 2-0 with five minutes left to the University of Kansas.

We managed to tie it up, and with 26 seconds left, I had the puck on my stick and was fortunate enough to score and send us to the semifinals. With so many family and friends watching back home, and to be able to do that for my teammates will always be one of the best memories during my time here at Fairfield.”

While nationals didn’t end the way the team hoped this year, losing in pool play to Niagara University and Binghamton University, the players were certainly proud of their efforts and success in the season.

Devin Kelley ‘22, who joined the team this year as a defender, was quickly accepted by the squad and was welcomed with open arms. He described the experience as more than smooth.

“I had an unreal time playing puck this year with the boys,” said Kelley. “We had a great group of guys in the locker room and even though it didn’t end the way we wanted, it was still a blast to be a part

of.”

Like Stanton, Kelley’s favorite moment of the season consisted of a game where his family and friends were there to show him support; he didn’t even mention whether they won the game or not.

“My favorite memory from this year has to be the playoff game against Farmingdale [State College] at our home rink,” said Kelley. “We had hundreds of fans at the game and it was so cool to look up into the crowd and see all my best friends there cheering us on.”

Clearly, this is a hockey team that holds values much greater than just the sport itself. Although the season is over, the relationship between these players will last a lifetime. Make sure to show your support next season and cheer on your Stags at The Rinks at Shelton in Shelton, Conn.

For updates on club sports schedules and other news, follow @fairfielduclubsports on Instagram.

Softball Falters In First Two Contests

By Tommy Coppola Managing Editor, Head Sports Editor

The Fairfield University softball team has struggled out of the gate this season, falling 3-5 against the University of Hartford and 5-13 against Stony Brook University.

Although the Stags were supposed to face off against the Stony Brook Seawolves twice that day, the second game got canceled a little less than halfway through due to heavy rain.

They began their season with multiple tournaments in various parts of the nation such as the Wolfpack Classic hosted by North Carolina State University, The USF

Tournament hosted by the University of South Florida, and the Thundering Herd Invite hosted by Marshall University.

To end their tournament slate, they met some familiar faces in the Rutgers University tournament, such as the College of the Holy Cross and Stony Brook University.

On Wednesday, March 23, however, their official regular season kicked off against the University of Hartford. Katie Kudlacik ‘22 pitched the first four frames of the game according to the official box score.

In the fifth inning, Hartford was able to break the a 3-3 tie with a two-run score, propelling them to a 5-3 lead that would ultimately

give them the victory over the visiting Stags.

Against Stony Brook, the Stags were able to show some solid offense. A home run by Allie Bridgman ‘24 solidified the Stags’ offense as they were able to take a 5-1 lead over the Seawolves.

According to the game’s official recap, the Seawolves equalized with five runs of their own. With a solo home run, yet another fiverun streak, and one more runner finding home base, the Seawolves finished the game with a final score of 13-5.

The team will next host Yale University on Wednesday, March 30, 2022 at 3 p.m. You can watch the game on Stags Sports Network or attend the game in person.

Photo Contributed by the Sports Information Desk

Graduate student Lauryn Rhinehart swings at a hit while her teammates watch.

@Fairfield Mirror Week of March 30, 2022

fairfieldmirror.com

SPORTS 16

Stag Spotlight: Jenna Schlatter

By Sheila McCombs Managing Editor Emeritus There is no shortage of big things happening for the Fairfield University Cheerleading Team.

Two weeks ago, they traveled to Austin with the Fairfield women’s basketball team to the first round

of the March Madness tournament.

In eight days, the cheerleaders will attend the College National Cheerleading Tournament in Daytona, Fla. for their first time as a nationally competitive team. But one of the biggest bright spots of the team has to be Jenna Schlatter.

Schlatter brings so many

Photo Courtesy of Taylor Lewis

Senior Cheerleader Taylor Lewis poses with teammate Schlatter in Alumni Hall.

things that make her a special part of her team. She has been cheering since the eighth grade, and cheered all four years of high school for Trumbull High. She has been cheering for Fairfield for the past three years. The other thing that makes Schlatter special is that she attends a Trumbull’s program for students with disabilities called ELITE. She is a member of the TOPS class at Fairfield University which stands for Transition Opportunities for Postsecondary Success. This program was started in the fall of 2018 for students 18 to 21 years old to allow students to not only continue their academic work, but also learn from work experiences to help them succeed socially as well.

One of Schlatter’s teammates, Taylor Lewis ‘22, talked about the effect that Schlatter’s presence adds to the team, and on her specifically.

“My favorite thing about having Jenna as a teammate is that she truly embodies what it means to be a cheerleader and a good teammate,” Lewis said. “Jenna is full of energy and is passionate about making others smile and cheering others on.”

Besides just being on the cheer team, Schlatter is a familiar face all over campus.

She works in both the RecPlex and the Stag Spirit Shop on campus. She has a wide range of responsibilities at her work, but when asked what she does the most she explains, “Smile!” Her positive energy brings something so special

Photo Courtesy of Taylor Lewis

Schlatter strikes a pose during the 2021 Family Weekend pep rally. to every room she walks into, inThese relationships are not cluding her places of work. only valued by Schlatter, but by all Despite everything she does, of her teammates. Lewis describes Schlatter loves being on the cheer this bond, “I am truly grateful to team the most. have Jenna as a teammate but even She is an integral part of the more importantly as a friend. Jenna cheer team. Outside of cheer, dance and I never fail to have fun. is her favorite hobby and she brings There is a great value that so much joy to what she does. She comes with having someone like has a love for cheerleading that is Schlatter, as a member of the team palpable when you see her on the and representing all ability levels. court cheering on both the men’s Lewis explains, “She has taught me and women’s teams. that we are all more alike than we Schlatter has also made inare different and that true friendcredibile impressions and relationship has no boundaries.” ships with her teammates during Schlatter brings a light with her time on the team. The best her everywhere she goes, and the thing about being on the team for cheerleading team allows that light her, “...is getting to be with all my to shine every time she steps out friends.” with the team.

Stags Stifle Pioneers Before Stepping Into MAAC

By Ryan Marquardt Assistant Sports Editor Fairfield’s women’s lacrosse team continues their undefeated streak against cross-town rival Sacred Heart University.

Fairfield hosted the Pioneers on Conway Field at Rafferty Stadium on March 19 in a game that would turn out to be a nailbiter. Although at times it appeared that the streak was in jeopardy, Fairfield prevailed with an 11-10 victory.

The game was close throughout, with neither team ever truly pulling away. There were four total lead changes in the game, which led to an exciting finish. Both teams competed hard throughout but in the end, the Stags stood tall.

The Stags were led by a great performance from Olivia Doody ‘23, who had two goals and two assists.

Other contributors to the win included Elizabeth Talluto ‘23, who also added two goals, and Graduate Student Kelly Horning, who had a great performance on offense and defense with two goals, three draw controls, two ground balls and a caused turnover on the final possession of the game.

Statistically speaking, the Stags dominated in most categories. Outshooting the Pioneers 33-24 meant more offensive opportunities for the Stags, which led to their narrow victory. Along with this, they had five more ground balls than the Pioneers and more forced turnovers.

The game started off with a close first quarter leaving the Stags up 4-3. However, a slow second quarter followed in which they were out scored 3-1, leaving them at a one goal deficit going into half.

They then bounced back with strong third and fourth quarters. Two Stag goals were scored right out of halftime, giving them all of the momentum and the lead.

Later came key goals from Horning and Doody plus four unanswered goals from the end of the third through the

middle of the fourth quarters. The Pioneers then scored three unanswered goals to make it an 11-10 game with Fairfield leading with just 1:20 left on the clock.

The Pioneers won the draw and had a possession to tie the game up, putting the pressure on the Stags defense.

However, the Stags had other plans. A shot wide of the net from the Pioneers led to a restart which was followed by a Pioneer’s turnover caused by Horning and a key ground ball from goalie Casey Collins ‘23, who had seven saves in the game. Once the Stags gained possession, they ran off the remaining clock securing their close victory against the Pioneers.

Overall, the Stags offense spread the ball around leading to their offensive success. They had eight different players managing to score. "Spreading the ball around makes us harder to scout and harder to stop,” head coach Laura Field said in the game's official recap. "We need to be a little more cohesive as a unit, but overall, we did have a lot of spread both offensively and defensively today."

Coach Field went on to say that the team “stood strong against a good Sacred Heart team,” continuing by stating, “[The Pioneers] have competed hard the last few times we’ve played including the fall, so we knew what to expect and I’m happy we were able to gut it out.” This game was the first one goal game for the Stags so far this season and their second win at home.

Looking forward, the Stags are beginning their Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference schedule on March 30 against Iona College (7-1) on Conway Field at Rafferty Stadium at 3 p.m.

Iona is currently on a seven-game win streak after losing their first game by one goal. Their offense has been on fire as they have been averaging about sixteen goals per game during their winning streak. The Stags will then continue

its conference schedule on April 2 at Marist College (2-6) at 1 p.m. Marist has been struggling so far this season, with only two wins. However, their game against Merrimack College on March 20 was a one-goal victory, and they are likely to be looking to build on that momentum.

The Stags have only played non conference teams so far and are currently at 5-3, with two of their losses being to top twenty-five teams. They are looking to put their best foot forward with their MAAC conference games coming up.

Photo Contributed by the Sports Information Desk

Sophomore Rylee Harrell scored once in a win over SHU.