High-five!
Campus administrators provide guidance on Trump’s immigration orders
By Sophia Harris Editor-in-Chief
President Donald Trump has signed a slew of executive orders related to the border, immigration, and citizenship since his inauguration on January 20. Incoming “border czar” Tom Homan has already authorized largescale raids targeting undocumented immigrants.
Homan, who is a former acting head of ICE, stated immigration agents will first focus on the “worst first, public safety threats first, but no one is off the table. If they’re in the country illegally, they got a problem,” according to NPR.
Ann McDonald, FSU’s chief of staff and general counsel, said many of the University policies that were in place
By Francisco Omar Fernandez Rodriguez Arts & Features Editor
Ndaba Mandela shared his life experiences and dreams at the Martin Luther King Jr. commemoration in the Dwight Performing Arts Center Auditorium, Jan. 23.
Mandela said he grew up in the apartheid regime in South Africa with his grandmother.
In apartheid there was a system where a person’s race determined their social status, which went from top to bottom “white, Indian, colored, and Black,” he said.
He didn’t know his grandfather until he had to visit him in jail, Mandela said. But instead of the prison cell he was ex-
before the executive orders will still protect students now.
For example, student records will remain protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
“That gives students a significant level of privacy for the data and records that the University holds,” she said.
McDonald said only a few circumstances override FERPA policies. “If a student was in crisis and somebody needed to know an address, we’re able to give out those kinds of pieces of information.”
Unless the University is issued a subpoena for a student’s private information, the University is not required to divulge any information if it is requested, she added.
pecting, Nelson was locked in a house, with a swimming pool.
They were trying to break him, and to convince Nelson to denounce his movement in exchange for the house for him and his family, Ndaba Mandela said.
“That was the day I had an idea of what I wanted to do when I grew up. Most kids want to be doctors and lawyers and astronauts. I told myself that day ‘When I grow up, I want to go to jail,’” Mandela said, followed by laughter from the audience.
Nelson was eventually freed. “But let me tell you the people that were truly behind the freedom of Nelson Mandela,” he said.
“It was actually young kids, young
In a statement by McDonald sent to faculty and staff, the recent rescinding of the protected areas policies that safeguarded people in places of worship, schools, and healthcare facilities opens the boundaries of campus that might otherwise have limited or restricted access to FSU community members while they are on campus.
Recent guidance from the Commonwealth’s Office of the Attorney General details the difference between public and private campus access.
Spaces such as the library and campus walkways are public, and people external to FSU have access to them.
students, same age as you, who put their bodies on the line, who went to … Washington, D.C. to get arrested, to say ‘We shall not move until Mandela is removed from prison.’ It was kids your age,” Mandela said.
“It was the power of the purse, ladies and gentlemen, that got them to turn the tide against apartheid,” he said. Companies such as Coca-Cola and Kodak did business with South Africa, Mandela said.
Students and other activists “made a statement and made a stand,” he said.
Things started to change after that, he said. “The public purse is very important.”
FRIENDS pg. 7 POLITICS pg. 8
Nelson Mandela’s grandson, Ndaba Mandela, speaks at MLK Commemoration
Adrien Gobin / THE GATEPOST
Women’s basketball celebrate a 88-46 win against Fitchburg State Jan. 29.
E ditorial Board
Editor-in-Chief
Sophia Harris
Associate Editors
Maddison Behringer
Ryan O’Connell
Copy Editor
Emma Lyons
Interim Asst. Copy Editor
Allie Mosher
News Editor
Dylan Pichnarcik
Interim Asst. News Editor
Bella Grimaldi
Opinions Editor
Izayah Morgan
Sports Editor
Sophia Oppedisano
Interim Sports Editor
Izabela Gage
Interim Asst. Sports Editors
Taylor Kimmell
Kyra Tolley
Arts & Features Editors
Francisco Omar Fernandez Rodriguez
Interim Arts & Features Editor
Owen Glancy
Asst. Arts & Features Editors
Bella Omar
Interim Asst. Arts & Features
Editors
Sarah Daponde
Liv Dunleavy
Photos & Design Editors
Adrien Gobin
Alexis Schlesinger
Asst. Photos & Design Editor
Meghan Spargo
Illustrations Editor
Ben Hurney
Asst. Illustrations Editors
David Abe
Emily Monaco
Staff Writers
Jesse Burchill
Raena Hunter Doty
Paul Harrington
Dan Lima
Antonio Machado
Kate Norrish
Erina Operach
Anthony Pintado
Alexandria Rose
Emma Schor
Anthony Sims
Michael Trueswell
Celia Williams
Staff Photographers
Eliana Buono
Meg Dame
Oné Green
Staff Illustrators
Ronnie Chiu-Lin
Charlotte Fabrizi
Marcus Falcão
Advisor
Desmond McCarthy
Asst. Advisor
Elizabeth Banks
Gatepost Interview
Emmanouil (Manos) Apostolidis
Professor of Food Science
By Dylan Pichnarcik News Editor
What is your academic and professional background?
My bachelor’s is in food science. My master’s in food microbiology, and my Ph.D. is in nutritional biochemistry and food biotechnology. More specifically, my Ph.D. was trying to study food products and understand how they can have health benefits. My professional background, after I graduated with my Ph.D., I worked at UMass Amherst. That’s where I did my bachelor’s, master’s and Ph.D. I worked as a postdoctoral research associate at the University of Rhode Island. I have been advising a few food companies and natural ingredient companies. I have been a professor here at Framingham State University since 2011. I teach the general education food science class, and two upper-level classes: Food Analysis and Food Microbiology. I’m also an adjunct professor at Harvard University in the nutrition department at the T.H. Chan School of Public Health, and my role there is to teach the graduate students of the nutrition department about food production processes and sustainable practices that can increase and improve food production.
What brought you to FSU?
FSU was a school that I was introduced to early in my life. I was born and raised in Greece, and in 1999, I came to America in order to see different schools and decide where I could go and study food science. And I went to three schools. I went to the University of Rhode Island, I went to Framingham State University, and then I went to UMass Amherst. And back then, I met the food science professor at Framingham State University, Dr. Bob Beck, and we had a very interesting discussion and I respected him. He was an excellent professor, but I was looking for something bigger, a bigger university, and that’s why I went to UMass Amherst. … After I experienced for many years large institutions, and certain things that happen at large institutions, I made a conscious decision that I don’t want to work in such institutions. … I want to be a professor in a smaller university like
Framingham State University. The position was announced in order to replace Dr. Beck. And I didn’t hesitate for a second because I knew where I was coming and I made a great choice, because it was exactly as I remembered it when I first met Dr. Beck in 1999.
Why should students take a food science course?
What are the two things we need for life? Food and oxygen. The food industry has worked so hard over the years to make food [accessible]. So for example, we never have to try very hard to get food. We can go to a supermarket and we easily get food products that we need. … Many times, we don’t critically think when we make food choices, and the food choices affect our lives dramatically. All food products are meant to be consumed. And when I talk with my students, I never tell them, “Don’t eat this food product.” “Don’t eat that food product.” I just tell them, “What are the food products?” And then, as long as we make conscious choices and we know what we’re eating, it’s OK. The problem is when people don’t know what they are eating, and unconsciously, they’re harming themselves, because if you eat too much of a food product, you can cause adverse health effects to your body. So it is extremely important for any student to take a food and nutrition class. It could be my food science undergraduate course, our food science class at the 100 level. It could be the nutrition department’s general education class. But it’s extremely important for all students to take at least one food science class so they can critically analyze the food products and the food choices that they make on a daily basis. … We choose many times within a day. We have food to eat, and it’s good to know what we’re eating.
What are your hobbies?
I play tennis. It’s been a thing, actually, with another professor of our department, Dr. Steven Cok. We have played tennis every Wednesday since 2013. We haven’t missed it unless, of course, we have a trip or we’re injured, like we’re sick. … And then with my son, I go skiing when it’s winter.
Police Logs
Monday, Jan. 27 3:12 Alarm, Fire State St Report Taken
Tuesday, Jan. 28 9:32 K9 Grooming Cedar St Call/Assignment Complete
Tuesday, Jan. 28 3:12 Alarm, Fire Larned Hall Report Taken
What advice would you give to students?
The most important advice is to always do what you want to do. … Don’t study something just because someone told you to study or someone pushed you to study. Believe in it and give your 100% on what you’re studying. Don’t be scared to make changes. Don’t be scared if you are in one major and then you realize that “maybe this major is not good for me.” Don’t be scared to make a change because what you study is going to be your future life. And think, an extra year maybe to finish a major that makes you more happy is worth it in the long term. … And the last advice is to use the faculty. We are here for the students. We are here in order to answer questions. We are here to guide you through processes, to advise you for professional development, and we want to do it so never hesitate to reach out to professors. Don’t be scared. Just knock on the door or send an email and talk to us.
CONNECT WITH DYLAN PICHNARCIK dpichnarcik@student.framingham.edu
Wednesday, Jan. 29 5:34
Medical Emergency Campus Way Transport to Hospital
Courtesy of Framingham State
SGA approves changes to SATF allocation
By Bella Grimaldi Interim Asst. News Editor
Student Government Association voted to approve changes to the proposed Student Activities Trust Fund (SATF) budget for Fiscal Year 26 at their meeting Jan. 28.
SGA met to approve the budget request for the next fiscal year and the allocation groupings for the different clubs on campus.
The meeting began with voting on changing the allocation for Group Two and Group Four for FY26. The allocation for Group Two changed from $15,000 to $13,500. Group Four’s allocation changed from $2,000 to $1,700, according to Vice President Cesar Matos.
According to Matos, the starting balance for the FY26 SATF budget will be the same starting balance as the FY25 starting balance of $419,480. The unallocated funds changed to a $17,000 increase for FY26.
A motion to approve the changes to the SATF budget passed unanimously.
Matos said, “This change is a reflection to the groups … they do not use the whole sum of their budget, so we’re looking to reduce the amount in order to more efficiently use the money that exists within those allocations.”
Allocation groupings are determined by how much money a club requires, how much of the allocated
The Ski and Snowboard Club and Brother 2 Brother moved from Group Two to Group Three. Matos said, “Brother 2 Brother failed to show up
had $13,000 in their budget when it came to us having our meeting last semester.”
A motion to approve the changes to
“When it comes to the way that we look at groupings like it was discussed earlier, Group Twos should be having events regularly, and they should be having two large-scale events every semester.”
- Cesar Matos
SGA Vice President
funds they have used, and how much engagement the club has, according to Matos.
Eleven clubs were affected by the allocation grouping change. Two of the 11 clubs were moved to a grouping with a lower allocation. The other nine groups were moved to a group with a higher allocation, according to Matos.
for two of the meetings. They came for the last club rep. meeting. When it comes to Ski and Snowboard, they failed to attend any of the club rep. meetings as well as attend any of the events that were hosted by the school.
“When it comes to Brother 2 Brother … they had reduced engagement when it came to those events, but it was also due to the fact that they still
Sunday night Feb. 2
Rain likely, possibly mixed with snow, becoming all rain after 4 a.m. Cloudy, with a low around 25.
Monday Feb. 3
A chance of rain before 10 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 50. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.
Monday night Feb. 3
Mostly cloudy, with a low around 25. West wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.
Tuesday Feb. 4
Mostly sunny, with a high near 35. West wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 10 mph.
the SATF budget passed unanimously.
Comic Book Club moved from Group Three to Two. Matos said, “When it comes to the way that we look at groupings like it was discussed earlier, Group Twos should be having events regularly, and they should be having two large-scale events every semester.”
Art Club moved from Group Six to
Group Four. This change will give the club $1,700 in allocated funds in FY26. The club had no promised allocations in FY25, according to Matos.
A motion to approve the changes to the SATF budget passed unanimously.
According to Matos, Growing in Faith, Hospitality Club, Little Loopers, Psychology Club, Ecology Club, Latinos Unidos N’ Accion, and Dungeons and Dragons Club all moved from Group Six to Group Five. These clubs had no allocated funds in FY25 and will receive $400 in allocations in FY26.
A motion to approve the changes to the SATF budget passed unanimously.
Treasurer Khoa Bùi presented SGA’s proposed budget for FY26. Senators and members of the executive board were given the opportunity to propose changes to SGA’s budget in preparation for Big Budget Feb. 10.
No changes were made to the proposed budget by the senators or executive board members. This budget was not voted on at the Jan. 28 meeting but will be voted on at Big Budget, according to Advisor Meghan Larkin.
According to Larkin, senators will receive training before the Big Budget meeting.
CONNECT WITH BELLA GRIMALDI igrimaldi@student.framingham.edu
Forecast provided by the National Weather Service www.weather.gov
Tuesday night Feb. 4
Partly cloudy, with a low around 20. Northwest wind up to 5 mph.
Wednesday Feb. 5
A chance of rain and snow. Partly sunny, with a high near 40.
Wednesday night Feb. 5
Rain and snow likely. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 30. South wind up to 5 mph.
Thursday Feb. 6
Rain and snow likely. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 45. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.
Dylan Pichnarcik / THE GATEPOST
(Left) Jaelynn Moon, Alix Ayoub, Ana-Julia Ribeiro, Khoa Bùi, Jazmany Reyes, and Meghan Larkin at the Jan. 28 SGA meeting.
Trump’s executive orders discussed at Board of Trustees
By Dylan Pichnarcik News Editor
University administrators addressed concerns about recent executive orders enacted by the Trump administration at a meeting of the Board of Trustees Jan. 29.
President Nancy Niemi discussed President Donald Trump’s recent executive orders regarding immigration and federal grants and how they might affect Framingham State.
Niemi informed the board the federal order that paused federal grants across the country had been rescinded by the Trump administration earlier in the day.
She said, “We have our fingers on the pulse to the extent that we can of all the federal decisions that certainly are currently in play, and of course, we can’t know the things that are yet to come.
“We are paying very close attention, and I will follow up with our team. It really has been an incredible team effort to get you the information - to get our community the information that they need.”
Jeffery Coleman, vice president of Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement, addressed the University’s “evolving strategy as it relates to diversity, equity, and inclusion, on how we are managing our vulnerabilities, and how we’re navigating these attacks that we’re seeing happen to many institutions across the country.
“One of the things I will say is that our response strategy in talking to colleagues in similar positions across the state and across the country is really that we’re finding there’s a lot of confusion … about what people are hearing and what laws actually say and what they don’t say.”
He added, “We’re also continuing to take a pulse of our campus and educate everyone about what’s happening right now nationally, also across the state. We want to help our campus community pretty much parse through lan-
the Commonwealth of Massachusetts website. Hubbard asked the board to support a proposal for an increase in Niemi’s salary to be brought to the Massachusetts Commissioner for Higher Education.
A motion was made by Trustee Giombetti to authorize Hubbard to seek a pay increase for Niemi on behalf of the board. The motion passed unanimously.
In response to the motion, Trustee
year of service pending an assessment by a board subcommittee that will be formed within the next year, according to Ann McDonald, secretary to the board of trustees and the University’s general counsel.
Niemi announced FSU will receive a $3.315 million student success funding grant from the Commonwealth.
She said the funding “is a new initiative at the state university level. … The success funding has been opera-
“We want to make sure that our University community is not intimidated, and we should not be intimidated by what’s going on.”
- Jeffery Coleman
Vice President of Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement
guage that we’re seeing coming from the White House.
“We want to make sure that our University community is not intimidated, and we should not be intimidated by what’s going on,” Coleman said.
During Chairperson Anthony Hubbard’s report, he notified the board that Niemi is the lowest compensated president in the nine Massachusetts state universities.
Currently, Niemi earns an annual salary of $273,520, according to
Claire Ramsbottom said, “It sends a perception of the University when you see that the president of your institution is the lowest paid. … I think that’s not the position we want to be in as an institution when we want a perception of excellence. That’s what we’re striving for.”
In addition to a pay increase granted by the Commissioner of Higher Education, Niemi will also be eligible for a merit-based increase after her fifth
tional at community colleges for about two years and has proved effective for students persisting and retaining their educational endeavors.
“Now, each state university is going to receive a portion of this funding within this fiscal year, with the expectation, we believe - the confirmation that the funding is going to come through for the next two years after that.”
Niemi said the money from the grant will be used to support student retention and persistence.
Kristen Daly, Class of ’92, was introduced as the new alumni trustee, having been selected by the Alumni Association and Foundation Board of Directors.
Daly said joining the board was “such an honor and a full-circle moment.”
She said she has spent the last 30 years working in communications and journalism. Daly now owns a speech-writing company.
In addition to serving on FSU’s Board of Trustees, Daly is the chairperson for “Dress for Success Boston,” which helps “unemployed and underemployed women achieve economic independence by providing no-fee programs, development tools, and professional attire to thrive in work and in life,” according to its website.
Daly said her goal in serving on the Board of Trustees is to “elevate this University so everybody knows how special it is.”
The student in the spotlight was graduate student Felpe Arías.
Arías came to FSU from Columbia with an undergraduate degree in systems engineering.
He said he was looking to develop his English to further his professional and academic goals. Arías completed the Bridge to University and Professional Success Program and is now a graduate student in the Master’s of Business Administration program.
Arías also serves on the Graduate Education Council.
Dylan Pichnarcik / THE GATEPOST
(Right) Jeffery Coleman, vice president of diversity, inclusion, and community engagement speaking at the Board of Trustees Jan. 29.
Immigration orders
Continued from Page 1
However, spaces such as an occupied classroom, a residence hall, or a private office have restricted access and that will continue despite these changes to federal immigration procedures.
McDonald stated that the only police authorities permitted on campus without invitation are the University Police and the Commonwealth’s State Police Force.
Under Commonwealth case law, officers may not hold an individual “solely on the basis of a Federal civil immigration detainer,” according to McDonald’s statement.
In a statement from University Police, Chief Joseph Cecchi said, “Should you observe other law enforcement or immigration personnel or immigration officers on campus, a call to our University Police (508-626-4911) to report the activity and/or confirm their knowledge of the presence of these individuals would be the most advisable course of action.”
McDonald said if an officer or someone who is “wearing a uniform, has a badge and presenting papers” is asking to speak with a student or for a student’s location, faculty and staff members are not required by the University to provide that information and should point them to University Police and the General Counsel.
“That’s our procedure pre-executive order, and that’s also a procedure post-executive order,” she said.
Dean of Students Meg Nowak Borrego said, “We are working with Residence Life to assure that our student security desk attendants are familiar with how to respond should someone come into that space because those are private residential spaces.”
Jeffrey Coleman, vice president for diversity, inclusion, and community engagement, said he and Jerome Burke, director of the Center for Inclusive Excellence, are developing more programming to help students better understand constitutional law.
Thomas Severo said regarding the extent to which the President’s executive orders and actions on immigration hold up in court, “I wouldn’t jump to saying there’s no chance any of it ever holds up in court, but I will say that as a practical matter, it could prove exceptionally difficult to even track down many of the people he’s propos-
of Trump’s executive orders, her cousin was deported from Boston to Barbados while she was at work.
“She did not have a criminal background. She’s just a normal person, and they caught her at work,” the student said.
She said that Framingham State has been very supportive of her and her
status. Her parents and sister came from Guatemala, seeking asylum from gang attacks. She said her grandfather was shot and killed by gang members and her father was shot eight times by gang members, but survived. That is when her family decided to come to the United States.
“We are working with Residence Life to assure that our student security desk attendants are familiar with how to respond should someone come into that space because those are private residential spaces.”
- Meg Nowak Borrego Dean of Students
ing be deported. I think logistical and financial hurdles will be the bigger barriers here.”
State Representative Priscila Sousa D-Sixth Middlesex said Trump’s specific executive orders are very personal to her because she “knows how it feels to be hunted down” because she was “outside of status” for nine years.
She said she wants students to know they have more allies than they think who are committed to the immigrant community.
Sousa said this situation affects all immigrants. “Even if you are documented,” you will be affected, she said.
She commended college presidents in Massachusetts for being “extremely proactive in making campus safer spaces” for all students.
She said the Trump administration uses fear as a weapon.
“They are keeping us scared and if we are scared, we do not think rationally,” Sousa said. She urged students
“They are our students - everybody is. Nobody is lesser than others. Nobody is somehow less desirable as a student. They are all ours.”
- Nancy Niemi Framingham State President
Nowak Borrego said at FSU, “We value the population that is impacted by this executive order, and want them to be active members of our community who feel safe, respected, and cared for.”
President Nancy Niemi said, “They are our students - everybody is. Nobody is lesser than others. Nobody is somehow less desirable as a student. They are all ours.”
Professor and Pre-Law Advisor
to try not to panic.
She added her office is always open if students want to know more about the resources available to them. Her office phone number is (617) 722-2460.
[ Editor’s Note: The Gatepost has decided to keep the names of students in this article anonymous to protect their safety. ]
A junior student said that because
family’s situation.
A sophomore student said she is lucky her parents gained citizenship in 2014 but understands that that is not the case for a lot of people.
“People are losing their family, their friends,” she said.
“I don’t even have the right words to say,” she added.
A sophomore student said the recent passage of the executive orders makes her “really upset” because she comes from a Mexican background.
“I do not support this at all,” she added.
A sophomore student said Trump’s crackdown on immigration has been “very disheartening to see but not surprising.”
He said, “It’s very concerning to see that it’s not necessarily about your documentation or status.”
He added a large number of undocumented immigrants “are working jobs, paying taxes, and they are a big portion of the workforce for jobs that not a lot of Americans want to do.
“Humanity needs to be applied. You shouldn’t be taking these people away from their families because their children could have been born here,” he said.
A senior student said regarding the change of what constitutes a public or private space, “I think those are places that people hold sacred, and if they’re not able to go to school, or places of worship, people will be scared and isolated.”
She added, “I believe that especially in America, we’re such a big melting pot and if we take away the right of immigration, then we take away the history of America. We should make it easier and not harder for immigrants.”
Another student said she and her family were “devastated” by the executive orders regarding immigration.
She said she believes Trump’s second term will be more impactful on the Hispanic and immigrant communities.
She added, “Some people might see this on the news and not really think too much about it, but for me, this is my life. Like, this is what I deal with.”
She said her older sister and both of her parents have mixed immigration
Her father was the only source of income for her family but due to fear of deportation, he has not been able to go to work, meaning she has been going to school full-time while also working to provide for her family.
“This has been very difficult for my family and other family members to still provide for our families. The fear of even simply going down the street, getting a little something that we might need - it is not possible.”
She said her family members are law-abiding citizens and if an undocumented immigrant comes to the United States and commits a crime, she understands why they would be deported, but her family should not be subject to this mass deportation.
“Most of the immigrants who come here just work just to send money back to their families,” she said.
“My parents have never gone on a trip. They’ve never seen some parts of Boston, and they’ve lived here my whole life,” she said. She said that her father had been detained before by ICE.
“I witnessed that when I was 5 years old. Thankfully, we’re able to find a good lawyer, and he’s in the process of fixing citizenship, but even still, we don’t know what will happen. It is very difficult.
“It has just become very hard to be human here and just live peacefully knowing so many people don’t want us here.”
Resources provided by Framingham State for students and faculty are Mass.gov Finding Legal Help, Student Immigrant Movement, United We Dream, Educational Resources for Immigrants, Refugees, Asylees and other New Americans U.S. Department of Education, Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition, National Immigration Law Center, and the Greater Boston Legal Services.
OP/ED
THE GATEPOST EDITORIAL
Apathy is not an option
The actions taken by President Donald Trump during his first 10 days back in office have made the future of the United States appear bleak.
As of presstime, Trump has signed 24 executive orders, and we are sure you have heard about most if not all of them.
His executive orders - freezing federal spending, deporting immigrants, halting critical race theory from being taught in school, to name a few - have been overwhelming, to say the least.
However, while this has been scary, staying hopeful and standing up for what you believe in has never been more important. The “shock and awe” normalized by this administration is designed to overwhelm you, but you can’t let it control your life.
There is an oversaturation of information concerning current politics being posted from all sides on all social media platforms.
Rather than doom scrolling on social media, turning to trusted news sources and fact checking information is crucial to limiting unneeded stress.
Your news should come from mainstream news sources and newspapers. Professional journalists dedicate themselves to unbiased ethical reporting, and the newspapers they write for hold them accountable to ensure the news being put out is truthful.
For example, The Associated Press, National Public Radio, and The Boston Globe are all reputable news sources you can turn to.
The quality of information that you are consuming is far more important than the quantity. Stick to reading a few articles from trusted sources instead of reading every article that is written about topics that are concerning.
Informing yourself and consuming information from reputable news sources is the first step in dealing with Trump’s presidency and its ramifications.
Keep engaging in conversations about tough topics and ensure misinformation is not being spread through word of mouth.
With so much information being exchanged and new orders and bills released each day, the best way to feel more in control of what is happening around you is to engage in your communities.
If you feel overwhelmed about where to even begin to help out around you, there are small things you can do to start to advocate for change. Sign the numerous petitions going around. Research and participate in current boycotts. Spread helpful information about the effects of Trump’s executive orders.
For example, you can print out “red cards” and put them out in public spaces for those who need them. “Red cards” are cards containing an English script of what non-English speakers should say if approached by ICE.
Once you familiarize yourself with these basic outlets for community involvement, you should engage in more meaningful ways if you are able. Soup kitchens are always in need of volunteers and donations. Look into local groups organizing and promoting protests.
You can also make calls to your representatives to inform them of the changes Massachusetts residents want to see.
Many people say that just because we live in a blue state, our political involvement is less meaningful because residents of our state generally oppose many of Trump’s policies. However, that doesn’t mean we should turn a blind eye to these issues and allow those in red states to do all the political work.
Your political engagement has more power here, as our lawmakers are more likely to agree and work to promote change. We cannot become complacent in the face of these “shock and awe” tactics.
If you want to find ways to be involved on campus, the Civic Engagement Center offers resources for involvement and organization.
As stressful as they are, not everyone can afford to ignore current political events. Try to help out those directly affected who don’t have that luxury. If you are directly affected, avoid isolating yourself. Turn to friends and loved ones for support. Community is key.
We have received multiple emails from President Nancy Niemi emphasizing that Framingham State will continue to uphold our community standards of antiracism and inclusion. Our learning community is dedicated to our safety and has numerous offices offering support in these unprecedented times.
We should take advantage of this support and continue to lift each other up.
Stay informed, stay involved, and stay hopeful.
Alumni
completed two semesters at FSU achieved a minimum 2.8 GPA demonstrated leadership at FSU or in your community for undergraduates HAVE YOU?
Questions? ask Jennifer DeFronzo: alumni@framingham.edu
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The Gatepost Editorial reflects the opinions of the newspaper’s Editorial Board. Signed Op/Eds reflect the opinions of individual writers.
Now is the time for action
By Izayah Morgan Opinions Editor
The 47th President Donald Trump has been making waves for his decisions since his presidency was certified and he took office on Jan. 20.
His executive orders have been controversial to say the least. This includes stopping refugee arrivals, redefining birthright citizenship, and repealing some of the actions President Joe Biden took for climate change.
A lot of these executive orders have created fear in some of these affected groups, such as the worry of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deporting undocumented citizens.
It is so bad in fact that I have seen multiple posts on social media guiding people on how to handle dealing with ICE if they approach you. Even my hometown of Springfield - which is home to many immigrants - has ICE patrolling around.
Even I, as a student who comes from a lower socioeconomic class, saw Trump’s executive order to freeze federal funding as a personal attack.
For me and many other students it was scary, as many of us need grants or loans to attend university. Even at Framingham State University - which is a much more affordable university than most - each semester is still about
$17,000 after aid for an in-state resident student.
Education is expensive, especially for the Americans who were not born into a family where one or both of their
ness to stop,” it won’t stop without action on everyone’s part. During this previous election between Vice President Kamala Harris and Trump, I found myself disappointed with the results.
parents went to college. Part of me was scared for members of my family who rely on government-funded programs to make ends meet every month.
As much as I want to shout at the top of my lungs, “I long for this mad-
Can we be friends?
By Liv Dunleavy Editorial Staff
As this semester brings me one step closer to graduation, I prepare for my life outside of a school setting and find myself mulling over choices I’ve made in my five years of being in college that have made life significantly easier.
I like to think I make friends easily and I can connect with someone on a deeper level. I am able to sympathize with others in a way that allows me to have large groups of diverse friendships.
Although, making and maintaining friendships can be especially hard when going to college. Being a freshman, a transfer student, or even just progressing in your degree can make sustaining a friendship difficult.
Losing friends who graduate, move to schools far away or out of state after high school, or transfer away to another school mid semester - all of these come with pain and the uncertainty of if the friendship will last.
A lot of freshmen may struggle to keep in touch with their hometown friends, especially those who live on campus, who had to leave their life behind in search of a new start here at FSU.
Transfer students may join a new school with the fear of being an outcast, an outsider to the community, someone who joined a party too late.
Here’s what I think about friendships in college.
Having someone who supports you - someone who will lift you up when you have the roughest week - is what makes college and life worth it. Whether that is your par ent, your pet, your partner, or your best friend - it is important to surround yourself with people who lift you up.
Having a support system, people you can rely on through thick and thin, will make your college experience and life in general so much smoother. You will want to keep these strong bonds foreverisn’t that the goal?
But there are lines that have to be drawn, especially when it comes to your men tal health.
And those around me, especially women, felt even more so defeated.
Of course my first reaction was to isolate and deal with my emotions and
It can sometimes be hard to decipher when someone is supporting you versus when someone is draining you.
realize what I needed to do to support myself when it came to making decisions on who to keep in my life and who to let go.
process what had just happened on my own. That worked for a little but eventually I went out of my own little bubble and listened to those around me.
And I found myself surprised in others’ resilience to what is going on. Not because they don’t care but because in fact they care too much. They still post information that helps others, show up to spaces they are not welcomed in, and protest against the things the Trump administration is doing.
The Trump administration is likely doing a common political strategy to overwhelm the public by trying to pass laws that would seem extreme even to some leaning on one side politicallyright or left - then proceeding to try to pass laws that seem more “moderate” compared to those they tried before. It is an attempt to drain what little fire we had burning still in our hearts. We have time to lick our wounds. However, life doesn’t wait for you to get comfortable and time is not on our side.
The time for sorrow is over, and the time for action is now. And it all starts in the home. Your close friends and family - protect them and educate them. Then spend your time in the community, whether it be at a soup kitchen, or spending your time as a mentor to a person younger than you.
Everyone remembers the impact you left on them.
Ronnie Chiu-Lin / THE GATEPOST
I’ve been through a lot of toxic friendships, and it took a long time to
After high school, with all the drama and back and forths, I realized that what matters most when it comes to friendships is how I treat myself and who I surround my-
When I make friends now, I make sure the people I hang out with are people who I feel recharged with. People who don’t make me feel tired after spending the day with them. People I can rely on.
As for the people I was hanging out
with in the past who made me feel like I was putting so much into the friendship, giving my all to them with no love back, I just don’t give them the time of day anymore.
It’s hard to know people’s true intentions. When I realize I am not being supported by people in my life, I let them go. And when I know I want these people in my life, I work hard to mend those friendships.
I feel recently a lot of people have been struck with uncertainty in their relationships, whether it be familial, friendly, or romantic.
And right now, more than ever, we need support. Reach out to those people who you want to keep in your life. And don’t keep stressing over those people that make each day harder for yourself.
Communication is so important. It’s beaten to death by counselors and everyone always says talking it out will fix everything. It seems so over exaggerated, but the way you communicate is what makes the difference.
If you are looking for a sign to cut out someone toxic in your life, this is your sign! Don’t let that weight drag you down. You can find someone who will lift you up instead.
If you are looking to make friends on campus, there are people for you. There are so many lovely folks with so many unique and similar interests. You will find someone who will connect with you.
Bella Omar / THE GATEPOST
The most dangerous thing to American poli tics
By Anthony Sims Staff Writer
Spite is a powerful motivator, and in today’s political landscape, it carries a serious danger to both greater democracy and one’s mental health.
When Donald Trump won the election in November, many on social media declared, “If you voted for him, I want you off my social media.” Others quoted James Baldwin, “We can disagree and still love each other unless your disagreement is rooted in my oppression.”
I want to stress that I agree with Baldwin - one shouldn’t tolerate oppression on any grounds - however, I am personally concerned with the rhetoric on social media, as exclusionary behavior once pushed me to extreme political takes.
From 2016 to 2020, I was an avid Trump supporter. Because of my own spite, I found it hard to listen to opposing political beliefs. However, with time and some patient friends - having a wide variety of opinions - I found my political views evolved to become a far cry from what they used to be.
It is my hope that by sharing how my beliefs have evolved, I can encourage you, dear reader, to consider your behavior with those you politically
disagree with, regardless of your political affiliation.
Before the 2016 election, I knew nearly nothing about politics. I was more concerned with affording the newest Call of Duty, passing my high school chemistry class, and regularly overthinking how to ask out my crush at the time.
During election season that year, conversations around it seemed inescapable. One of the only things that I truly knew at the time was that I loved my grandfather, who was dying of brain cancer.
I both wanted to understand politics better, and to get closer with him while I could. I thought I could achieve both by joining him while he watched Fox News, which took up a majority of his time.
As I “learned” more, I tried to debate with family members on Facebook. Instead of constructive and nuanced feedback I faced pushback, belittlement, and often, holier-than-thou demeanors.
Relatives would fist-bump after making single points against me at the dinner table - I specifically remember one quip, “You must be this tall to participate in the discussion, sweetheart.”
More upsetting still, some relatives were very critical of my grandpa. I’ll
never forget my uncle - his own soncalling him a “racist S.O.B.” to my face not long after he died. I started to resent them and their opinions, and took that with me to school debates.
One day, I asked to debate with a friend named “Kyle.” The other person at the table, “Peter,” encouraged me to drop it, but I didn’t want to hear it, I just wanted the spar.
Kyle argued better, but was also getting increasingly frustrated. The discussion ended abruptly when he slammed his fist down on my hand, got up, and walked away.
The blow wasn’t painful, but the action solidified my animosity. Because of this action, I believed not only were the left wrong, but also ignorant, and that convincing them was pointless. I stopped speaking with Kyle and became reluctant to connect with relatives and classmates of different opinions and backgrounds.
Thinking about it now, Kyle and I were really similar. We both wanted to be heard and understood, and were upset that the other was not listening. The ironic part is that because of his actions, I stopped listening altogether.
I stayed in this headspace for a few years, only voicing my opinion with those I knew would agree. I operated under the pretense that if I was open
with my political beliefs, I would be belittled or worse than before.
Thankfully, over time I found myself making new friends, all with a wide variety of opinions. It was these connections, more than anything else, that allowed my prejudices to fade. I got to a point with my friends that I felt comfortable speaking politically. While they vehemently disagreed with a lot of my takes, I still felt accepted.
Because of that, I took their opinions more seriously, and while I couldn’t relate to certain issues they faced, my empathy was growing to where I would make an effort to consider their points.
My political beliefs shifted left over several years, all from patience and compassion that was shown to me.
Today, a lot of behavior on the internet reminds me of my emotional state back then: angry and unheard. While I can’t speak accurately to everyone on social media, I can personally attest that I was only willing to change when I felt heard.
While it’s true that one should not tolerate oppression, still, one should treat others with respect, especially if not done so for you. Those are the moments where one’s character truly shines, and only light can drive out darkness.
The dark side of the ‘autistic historical figure’
By Kate Norrish Staff Writer
Hey, here are some historical figures who YOU didn’t know were autistic. According to The BBC, Isaac Newton struggled to be social, had few facial expressions, and had such an intense interest in his work that it may have been a hyperfixation! He also once tried to jam a needle into his eyeball, which, according to the website Applied Behavioral Analysis, was a sign that self harm can lead to great discoveries.
Maximilien Robespierre also had few facial expressions, moved his hands in a rhythmic way, and may have attempted suicide, like many autistic people! He was even framed for terrorism and killed, with that behavior cited as a reason, according to “Robespierre: A Revolutionary Life” by Peter McPhee.
And, of course, Emily Dickinson had such severe social anxiety starting out of nowhere in her mid-20s that she struggled even to answer the doorbell, according to The Emily Dickinson Museum. But that just gave her more time to focus on her work!
I tell you this not because I think we shouldn’t speculate on historical figures’ neurotypes. In fact, I believe that by not acknowledging signs of autism when there is evidence leads to the assumption that autism did not exist before 1945. I tell you this because we do not talk about these figures’ autistic traits beyond a form of inspiration, ignoring the more difficult parts of their
lives.
The autistic savant stereotype has been used to justify many harmful behaviors toward autistic people. “What’s your special talent?” has become such a common response to “I’m autistic,” that it’s become an in-joke in the neurodiverse community, and the idea of the savant has been used to perpetuate the low versus high functioning labels - something conceived by Nazi scientist Hans Asperger as a method of who to kill, and is used to deny autistic people agency to this day, according to Time Magazine. In my experience, savant jokes are a form of gallows humor. I have often felt that I needed to do something
great with my life to deserve to act autistic, and the romanticization of the autistic savant rarely bleeds into public impressions in a meaningful way. Despite being able to read at an adult level in the first grade, and growing up alongside autistic classmates with similar talents in physics and pencil sketching, it was never seen as more than a nuisance. I had teachers visibly annoyed with me for including analysis of symbols in a book report, and I distinctly remember my classmate having to erase a realistic sketch of his bare chest for a school assignment. When groups with a history of eugenics, such as ABA websites, make
these lists, I also have to think - you celebrate the claim that we discovered gravity, led revolutions, and wrote canonized poetry, but you thank us through abuse and “correcting” autistic behavior?
And, to these lists, if these low support needs, well off, white people struggled so much to live without abuse and self harm, then what chance did the rest of us have? I often feel a responsibility to care for the legacy of “autistic” historical figures, because it often seems like only other neurodiverse people are willing to acknowledge when we’re in pain. Otherwise, the responses are typically, “sometimes autistic people just do that,” or, “at least we have their work.”
I think we need to use how figures such as Newton, Robespierre, and Dickinson behaved and were treated to study what biases people in history may have had against autistic traits when there was little to no knowledge that different neurotypes exist, regardless whether or not we choose to view them as neurodiverse.
We should acknowledge that no one was ever born for the purpose of doing something historical. Isaac Newton played a prank on his neighbors as a kid, according to World History Encyclopedia, Robespierre often read to his family members before bed, according to “Robespierre, A Revolutionary Life,” and Dickinson won several bread making prizes at local cattle fairs, according to The Emily Dickinson Museum. These too are worth celebrating.
Campus Conversations
By Raena Hunter Doty, Staff Writer
“What are you looking forward to this semester?”
“Meeting new people. Seeing how campus is, because I’m still settling in.”
- Elesi Fiakofi, freshman
“Having good grades this semester and being involved in the community.”
- Mathias Fowler, junior
“Graduating!” - Azucena Thibault-Munoz, senior
“Getting good grades and spending time with my friends.”
- Aidan Lee, freshman
“Playing baseball.”
- Colin Johnson, junior
“My chemistry lab! … I did the first one last semester, and I had a lot of fun in it, so I can’t wait for the second semester.”
- Phoenix Trezise, freshman
“Finishing off strong. Prioritizing whatever I need to accomplish for my career.”
- James Omorotionmwan, senior
“Making sure the Art Club is thriving in the community! I’m really trying to bring creative outlets to our campus and make them more accessible.”
- Paige Rainville, junior
“I am looking forward to learning new art skills and my classes.”
- Autumn Ray, junior
“Making new friends and getting a great education.”
- Benjamin Gustafson, freshman
“Putting myself more out there, being a part of clubs more, and showing my individuality.”
- Tatiana Melo, freshman
“I’m looking forward to my nutrition class because we’re going on some field trips.”
- Sabrina Stadelman, freshman
SPORTS
Women’s basketball defeats Fitchburg St. in team effort
By Kyra Tolley Interim Asst. Sports Editor
Women’s basketball defeated the Fitchburg State University Falcons 8846 in a conference matchup Jan. 29. This win brought their overall record to 11-7 and their conference record to 4-2.
Senior Chloe Rayko started the game with a three-point shot in the first 5 seconds to give an immediate momentum boost to the Rams.
Sophomore Ava Mckeon and junior Abigail Martin followed Rayko’s first shot by making one layup each.
Captain Katie Haselton, a senior, also made a successful drive to the hoop for a layup and later contributed an additional three points with a jump shot from outside the arc.
Freshman Faith Greene proved to be a force under the hoop when she grabbed four defensive rebounds in the first quarter and capitalized off an offensive rebound to score a layup.
Rayko and freshman Bridget Trainor scored back-to-back three pointers to bring Framingham to an early 20-0 lead.
Fitchburg was able to make a free throw for their first point of the game, but junior Kiara Cerruti responded by sinking a three-point shot. She then closed out the first quarter with a layup to bring the score to 27-3.
The first action of the second quarter came as Haselton made a layup de-
spite getting tripped up on her way to the hoop. She then made both of her free throws to extend the Rams’ lead.
The teams traded layups, with Fitchburg making two, while Greene and Haselton cumulatively made three to increase Framingham’s lead to 35-7.
Sophomore Bridget Capone showed her versatility when she capitalized on a steal to gain 2 points for Framingham and an additional 3 in their next possession.
Cerruti made her mark in the second quarter by making two jumpshots in 30 seconds after coming off the bench earlier in the game. At halftime, the score was 50-16.
Fitchburg started the third quarter on the front foot after a steal and a subsequent three-pointer sank in the first 30 seconds, but the Rams did not relent.
Haselton dribbled from one end of the court to the other and gained another 2 points for Framingham.
A long pass from Haselton gave Martin an opportunity to score in the paint, but her layup bounced off the rim. Greene took advantage of the rebound and successfully went up for a layup that gave the Rams a 58-21 lead.
In the last 2 minutes of the quarter, Fitchburg began to press, but they were unable to stop the Rams’ offense. After breaking the press, Cerruti made a three-point shot to end the third quarter 44 points ahead.
Cerruti continued to score throughout the fourth quarter and tallied 18
points in total for the game.
Despite Fitchburg outscoring Framingham 18 to 16 in the final quarter, the Falcons were unable to overcome the deficit the Rams established early in the game.
Framingham showed dominance in the rebounding game, racking up 26 offensive and 39 defensive rebounds.
The Rams collectively amassed more points against the Falcons than any other opponent they’ve played this season. This included 42 points from players coming off the bench.
Greene, who won MASCAC Rookie of the Week five times this season, had a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds in just 17 minutes of playing time.
Greene noted her dedication, passion, and resilience and said that understanding that she needs to keep going when days are tough has helped her succeed in her rookie season.
Head Coach Walter Paschal reached 400 wins in his coaching career at Framingham State.
Paschal said he attributes this milestone to the players he has coached. He said, “I’ve got three great [assistant coaches] who all played for me and they came back to coach, so that’s what it’s all about.”
Haselton described conference games as “big” and said making a statement early on is important. “I think we did that well tonight. So just to continue that with every conference game going forward.”
Men’s basketball bested by Fitchburg St.
By Taylor Kimmell
Interim Asst. Sports Editor
The Framingham State Rams faced off against the Falcons of Fitchburg State in a heavily defensive conference matchup Jan. 29.
Starting for the Rams were seniors Kyle Philistin, JD Okafor, and Adonis Vashon, and sophomores Joshua Saint Jean and Makyle Hayes.
Fitchburg tallied the first points of the game, scoring on a jumpshot 40 seconds into the first half.
Okafor responded with a perfectly executed layup.
The Falcons scored twice more, on a layup at 16:29 and a jump shot at 15:55.
Saint Jean battled back for the Rams, scoring on a layup with an assist from Okafor.
Framingham matched Fitchburg’s next jump shot with three of their own - two from Philistin and one from freshman Marshall Kerley.
Just as the lead seemed to be within reach for the Rams, Fitchburg battled back with a three-point shot.
Both teams continued to fight for the win, Framingham scoring 12 points and Fitchburg scoring six during the next 5 minutes.
With just 4 minutes remaining in the half, Framingham focused on closing the gap.
Philistin passed the ball to Vashon, who scored on a three-pointer.
Sophomore Dyree Rogers followed the play with two successful free throws, and the half ended with a score of 36-29.
The Rams came into the second half of the game with what seemed like a renewed determination.
Just two minutes in, Fitchburg fouled Saint Jean, allowing the forward to make both penalty shots.
In the shadow of the successful free throws, Philistin weaved his way through the swarm of defenders, executing a perfect layup.
The Falcons sensed the threat of an impending lead change, and following a brief 30-second timeout, took to the
court and began to fight back.
The ensuing 8 minutes resulted in an added 22 points for Fitchburg.
In the face of this significant point deficit, Framingham put some of their own points on the board - two foul shots from Philistin, two from Saint Jean, and an additional two from Okafor, as well as a three-pointer from sophomore Nathaniel Taylor and three successful free throws from Rogers.
The Rams continued to reap the benefits of their field goal attempts, with more shots from Taylor, Philistin, and sophomore Javoun Calhoun.
As the clock ran down, it became clear to Framingham that recovering so many points in the concluding minutes of the game would be near impossible.
Instead, the team worked as diligently as possible to reduce Fitchburg’s lead, the game ending with a layup from Philistin.
It remained a tough battle until the final buzzer, and the match ended with a score of 67-54 - a disappointing but hard-fought loss for Framingham.
This loss set the Rams’ conference record at 3-3, and dropped their overall record to 9-10.
Senior Chance Wells said, “Fitchburg just played harder than us. We knew that coming into the game, they were going to play hard for the full 40 minutes. We just didn’t bring the juice
Paschal said, “All of them played well in the last three MASCAC games. They came out and threw the first punch in all three games, and they got three [wins].”
Currently, the Rams are on a fourgame win streak. Their next matchup is a conference game against Westfield State University at home Feb. 1.
Stats sourced from fsurams.com and MASCAC.com
CONNECT WITH KYRA TOLLEY ktolley@student.framingham.edu
from the jump.”
Wells said, “We turned it [the ball] over way too much for us to succeed.”
Sophomore Korbin Gann said, “Fitchburg was just applying good ball pressure and had players making shots when they needed to.
“We need to handle the ball better, have better attitudes, and play a full 40 minutes every game,” he said.
With just five games remaining in their 2024-25 season, the team is determined to improve their record and rewrite their reputation.
“What drives us is the pursuit of doing something that this school hasn’t done for a long time, which would be having a winning season and a chance to play in the MASCAC playoffs - fighting to win a championship,” Gann said.
The guard noted that making it to the NCAA tournament would be a dream come true for the team.
“We know we have the pieces and we know we can do it. That’s what we’ve been working toward since preseason,” Gann concluded.
The team hosts Westfield State for a conference game this Saturday, Feb. 1.
Stats sourced from fsurams.com and MASCAC.com
CONNECT WITH TAYLOR KIMMELL tkimmell@student.framingham.edu
Izabela Gage / THE GATEPOST Kyle Philistin dribbling to the net in loss again Fitchburg State Jan. 29.
Adrien Gobin / THE GATEPOST Ava Mckeon dribbling in win against Fitchburg State Jan. 29.
No ‘limits’ on Coach Morris’ success
By Sophia Oppedisano Sports Editor
It’s a routine evening in the Framingham State gymnasium Jan. 29. The stage is set for a conference matchup between the Rams’ men’s basketball program and the Fitchburg State Falcons.
The warm-up clock winds down, the shoot-around wraps up, and the Rams huddle up on the court as Head Coach Donald Morris Jr. takes his place by the home bench, the picture of composure as he shakes hands with the Falcons’ head coach.
Morris is leading the program to its most successful season in 15 years and has boasted marked improvements over the past four seasons since he became coach in 2021.
His lengthy career is brimming with accomplishments that make him fit for the job - one of which is his Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) program, Basketball 2 the Limit (B2L).
Morris is the only head coach in the country who is coaching at the collegiate level and owns an AAU program.
Morris said the program is built on the principle of teaching kids “the right way to play” and, when the time comes, helping those players select a college that is “the right place for them.”
The AAU program was established in 2009 and boasts sponsorship from Puma and a robust coaching squad. B2L emphasizes bringing up its players to be prepared for college and life beyond the academic setting.
Basketball was a focal point of Morris’ childhood, beginning around the fifth grade. He played up to the high school level, where he started for four years. A coach took Morris under his wing, aiding him through prep school and up to the college level.
Morris spent time at Notre Dame Preparatory School before heading to Dean College for his associate’s degree. He then went to play for Southern New Hampshire University’s Division II program before the passing of his father.
“I came home to finish my degree at Lesley [University] because I wanted to be close to my mom. It was a tough decision … but I knew that my family had
to come first at that time,” Morris said.
In the process of completing his last few classes, Morris was asked to coach at Lesley after completing his degree and subsequently became “one of the youngest minority coaches in New England at that time,” he said.
Since then, he has done coaching stints at Emerson College, Daniel Webster College, Newbury College, and MassBay Community College before coming to Framingham State.
Throughout his career, B2L has been a constant, driving force.
Morris said the program started with 10 girls who wanted to start their own team while he was also coaching at the college level.
“Ten [girls] turned into 20, and then my assistant coach and I would go to recruit at AAU tournaments,” said Morris.
He added that when he went out to recruit, he often found that young players were not being taught correctly. Morris and his assistant coaches hoped to expand the program to give players the proper tutelage to play the game at the college level and even up to the professional level.
With these ideas in mind, 20 players eventually grew to 300, all of whom receive rigorous instruction that not only prepares them for basketball but for life beyond.
Morris’ coaching philosophy revolves around how basketball, and the
lessons players learn on the court, correlate to real life.
He noted how easy it is to think of basketball in wins and losses, but helping his players grow means more to him than the tally in the win column.
“My big thing is, how can we teach life lessons through the game? … Lessons you learn on the court are ones you take every day with you. I’ve had kids that came to me that were first-generation college students, and they came for single-parent homes, and they would say ‘Coach Morris, we may have not won the championship, but you showed me how to be a good man,’” Morris said.
A big part of his job as a coach at the University is to help his players become better adults by building connections with players that are not dependent on game analytics.
Morris said he has attended former players’ weddings and baptisms for their children, something he noted with pride.
“In that sense, that’s winning,” he said.
Morris said his goals here at Framingham include improving on a team culture that has suffered under previous head coaches.
Morris is using his experience starting B2L from the ground up to inform the rebuilding of the men’s basketball team.
He noted the time it took to grow
those first 10 girls into a 300-player program.
“I built [B2L] pretty much myself, with some great coaches around me. I tell people you can start at one place, and you may not have everyone else see the destination, or everyone else believe in where you’re trying to get to, but as long as you believe and you’re determined to get there, you’ll find a way to do that,” Morris said. s
The same is true for this Framingham team where the goal is to get the players to share in a collective vision of the important effect their team will have on the program in the long term.
“This is not a quick fix - you have to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I tell some kids, ‘Okay, when you come here, you may not reap the benefits of us winning the championship, but you may be the person that comes and helps turn the stone that helps get us in the right direction,” he said.
The focus for Morris is to get his players focused on “small wins” as they work on rebuilding.
Since Morris arrived in 2021, the team has steadily added more wins to their record which has improved from 3-22 that 2021-2022 season to 9-10 so far this 2024-2025 season with six games remaining before the playoffs.
He credits much of the teams’ recent successes to the support of the University and the resources that aid student-athletes in thriving on campus.
“The more we can show support, not just to men’s basketball but to all the athletes, and really try to show them what we’re trying to do is try to show you the correlation between hard work and success,” he said.
To top off his recent success, Morris was named an AAU Coach of the Year by the AAU Northeastern Conference (NEAAU).
Morris said this was a great honor and he is grateful to NEAAU for supporting his mission for players to use basketball as a tool for life.
“It’s been great to have them support student athletes and myself,” he added.
Adrien Gobin / THE GATEPOST
Coach Morris coaching on the sidelines in loss against Fitchburg State Jan. 29.
Adrien Gobin / THE GATEPOST
Coach Morris (right) watching the game from the sidelines in loss against Fitchburg State Jan. 29.
McGinty, Hogan shine despite women’s ice hockey loss
By Sophia Oppedisano Sports Editor
The Framingham State women’s ice hockey team took home ice at Loring Arena Jan. 30 in conference play against the Plymouth State Panthers.
With only a month left to play in their inaugural season, the Rams entered the game still in search of their first win.
Freshman Anna McGinty notched her sixth start in goal and freshmen teammates Ceira Garrity, Finley Hogan, Lily Wilson, Sarah Lewis, and Alyssa Tansk made up the starting five on the ice.
McGinty was under early pressure from the Panthers who took command of the puck from the faceoff.
The Panthers pulled everything in their arsenal in the opening minutes of play and shots ricocheted off McGinty as the Rams fought for zone time.
The Rams got the puck into Panthers territory but struggled with puck movement and crucial passes were dropped, leading to Plymouth breakaways that McGinty and her teammates fought to stop.
Even with the early pressure, the Rams looked strong on their skates, keeping up with the Panthers and putting themselves in the path of shots to aid McGinty.
Plymouth sounded the buzzer first on a misread puck that snuck past McGinty’s pads giving the Panthers a 1-0 advantage.
The first period brought the begin-
nings of penalty trouble for the Rams as freshman Kalina Cochran went to the box for cross-checking as the clock wound past the halfway point in the period.
The Rams successfully killed the penalty keeping a good read on the puck and sticking with the Panthers’ passes.
Hogan came up the ice with a strong shot opportunity but couldn’t find the back of the net as the shot slid by the post.
With continued pressure from the Panthers, McGinty stood strong, blocking five more shots before the Rams tied it on a goal from freshman Petra Cernicek who flicked a shot in heavy traffic to even the score 1-1.
Plymouth ended the period with a 2-1 advantage on a backhanded goal with 1:31 left to play.
The first period concluded with a tripping penalty committed by freshman Ruby Boucher that carried into the beginning of the second period.
Framingham began the second period with a penalty for tripping committed by Tansk, giving the Panthers a 5-on-3 advantage on the ice.
With two Rams in the box, Plymouth took full advantage, scoring two goals in 30 seconds and bringing their advantage to 4-1.
Hogan continued to show brilliance in her stick handling and flew past Plymouth’s line for a shot attempt that the Panthers goalie stopped with her glove.
The momentum shifted in favor of
Framingham as they found their first power-play opportunity on a Plymouth penalty for cross-checking which quickly became a 5-3 advantage when another Panther went to the box for interference.
The Rams were unable to capitalize on the advantage.
As Framingham struggled for time in their offensive zone, the Panthers kept up their momentum, using the slot to throw off McGinty, but the defense prevailed through the end of the second period.
The Rams rounded out the period with a successful penalty kill and McGinty managed a heart-stopping save with the toe of her pad.
The third period put McGinty to the test but she saved all 17 shots that came her way, showing her adeptness with both her stick and pads in the face of Plymouth’s relentless pressure.
Framingham was unable to capitalize on a power-play opportunity but Hogan capped off the Rams’ effort with her first goal of the season.
Hogan’s goal encapsulated her efforts throughout the game and her teammates’ excitement was palpable as the last 5 minutes wound down.
The game concluded with a score of 4-2 and McGinty finished the game with 55 saves and a .932 save percentage for a glowing performance despite the loss.
Coming down the stretch, the Rams have one month of regular season play left with their next matchup at home at the New England Sports Center in
Marlboro against conference opponent Anna Maria College Feb. 1.
Stats sourced from fsurams.com and MASCAC.com
CONNECT WITH SOPHIA OPPEDISANO soppedisano@student.framingham.edu
Men’s ice hockey remains hopeful despite loss
By Izabela Gage Interim Sports Editor
Men’s ice hockey suffered a devastating 9-3 loss against the Plymouth State University Panthers Jan. 25. This loss brings their conference record to 0-8-1 and their overall record to 1-132. The Panthers started off the game aggressively with a shot on goal only 12 seconds in, which was saved by goaltender Liam Kilgallen.
The Rams responded with shots on goal from sophomore Brent Scott, graduate student Kaleb Kinskey, and freshman Devin Shepherd, respectively, in less than 20 seconds.
Kilgallen stopped four more of Plymouth’s assertive goal attempts with ease.
Junior Jake Barcelou took control
of the puck and skated down the ice, dodging Plymouth’s Brady Morrison’s efforts to steal possession back. He reached the offensive zone and tried to find the back of the net, but could not get it past Plymouth’s goaltender Brandon Shantz’s pads.
After two more saves from each goaltender, Framingham was back on a penalty kill when freshman Zach Pappas had to serve 2 minutes for roughing.
Plymouth could only tally one shot on goal before one of their players was put in the box, with each team playing with only four players.
The Panthers netted their first goal of the game, and made two back-toback shots on goal 2 minutes later, both saved by Kilgallen.
Starting the second period in the lead, the Panthers found a hole in Kilgallen’s defense and deepened the deficit to 2-0.
With 3 more saves by Kilgallen, sophomore Luke Yubeta responded with a shot on goal for Framingham, but could not get past the goal line.
The Panthers found another opening on net, bringing the score to 3-0.
The Rams tallied seven shots on goal on the power play, but Shantz’s defense could not be broken.
With 3 minutes remaining in the second period, Plymouth brought the score to 4-0 with an even-strength goal.
The first minute-and-a-half of the third period was quiet, with no shots on goal from either team.
One second after a huge save by Kilgallen, his efforts fell short of the
Panthers’ relentless rebounds as they netted their fifth goal of the game on the power play.
With the teams back at even strength, sophomore Scott Bugarin tried to find the back of the net to get the Rams on the scoreboard, but came up empty-handed.
Right after Shantz’s save, two of Plymouth’s defensemen and Framingham’s freshman forward Michael Kennedy were put in the penalty box for roughing.
Playing 4-on-3, sophomore Cameron Craig attempted to score twice, with Shantz saving both shots without stopping the play. Captain Ashton Collazo, a senior, matched Craig’s determination with a slap shot only 5 seconds later and netted the puck just out of Shantz’s reach.
A minute later, all penalties were served and the teams were back to even strength. The Panthers found the back of the net once again, despite the Rams’ defense.
With a direct pass from sophomore Brady Rossbach, Collazo sent the puck to the top shelf of the net and brought the score to 6-2.
After two more attempts to make another goal, Craig shot the puck toward the net and Rossbach came in for the rebound and tallied the Rams’ third and final goal of the game.
Shepherd served a 5-minute penalty for direct contact to the head, and the Panthers found two opportunities on goal, bringing the score to 8-3.
In the last minute of the game, Plymouth got through Kilgallen’s defense for the last time to bring the final
score to 9-3.
Kilgallen tallied 42 saves, earning a save percentage of .823.
Collazo’s two third-period goals earned him a spot on the MASCAC Weekly Honor Roll Jan. 27.
Collazo said, “I think a lot of the team know my work ethic and drive to improve comes from my competitive spirit and not accolades.
“It is nice to be mentioned for having a productive game but ultimately, if we don’t win, it doesn’t mean anything to me,” he added.
Barcelou said, “I think our power play started to click in the third period of the last game. It is something that we have been working on all year and it is something that we can continue to work on.”
Rossbach said, “Although this score wasn’t what we hoped for, I don’t think it shows the whole story.”
Barcelou said, “Obviously, it has been a frustrating season for the team, but we know there is still a lot of hockey left to play in February. We are confident that we can turn the season around one win at a time.”
As of press time, the Rams traveled to UMass Dartmouth and lost to the Corsairs 6-4 Jan. 30.
The Rams look forward to another action-packed game on home ice against the Anna Maria College Amcats Feb. 1.
Stats sourced from fsurams.com and MASCAC.com
CONNECT WITH IZABELA GAGE igage@student.framingham.edu
Adrien Gobin / THE GATEPOST Lily Wilson handling the puck in loss against MCLA Jan. 21.
Izabela Gage / THE GATEPOST
Liam Kilgallen stopping the puck in loss against Plymouth State Jan. 25.
ARTS & FEATURES
MLK commemoration
Continued from Page 1
About eight months before Nelson became President, Ndaba Mandela was visited by a man in a suit, who came to his home in a BMW, he said. When the man said he was sent by his grandfather to get him, Mandela refused.
“In the back of my mind I’m saying ‘stranger danger,’” he said. Eventually, the man left. But when he told his father, he said that if the man returns, he should go with him.
The man did return, and Mandela was taken to a house in Northern Johannesburg, guarded by cops and “guys in suits with earpieces,” he said.
While there he met a chef “the size of the house,” Mandela said. “It’s a good thing … As you know, you must never trust a skinny chef.”
Nelson told Ndaba he was sending Ndaba’s father to university and would take care of Ndaba.
His father went to university for the first time at 45 years old, graduated at 50, and died at 55 from HIV/ AIDS, Mandela said. His mother also died of HIV/AIDS.
The disease ravaged the nation and created “child headed households,” he said. This meant teenagers taking care of their younger siblings and running the house.
The family discussed how they would say their loved ones died, he said.
There was the argument to say pneumonia or tuberculosis because HIV/AIDS technically just weakens the immune system, Mandela said. But Nelson refused that idea.
“We shall simply say that the life of my son was taken by HIV/AIDS,” Ndaba Mandela said his grandfather said. This led to HIV/AIDS being treated more like any other disease, he said.
Because of the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS “people would die in silence, people would die in isolation,” Mandela said.
When the first antiretroviral medicine was available, their president at the time refused it, he said. “He could have saved many lives had he allowed the antiretrovirals to come in.”
By treating HIV/AIDS as any other disease, they helped other families tackle the stigma, he added.
Nelson once told his grandson that because he’s related to him, people will look to him as a leader, Ndaba Mandela said. Because of that, he was expected to get the best grades.
“The pressure, ladies and gentleman, the pressure!” Mandela said.
Having pressure from parents is actually a good thing, he added. “Your parents want you to shine brighter than you think you can shine.
“Even the parents get pressure at work. They know by a certain date that presentation better be ready. Otherwise, it’s your butts on the line,”
Mandela said.
He discussed how to decide what cause to fight for. “Let me tell you which cause to take up. You know which one? The one that you’re passionate about, the one that talks to your heart,” he said.
When someone sees something that doesn’t sit well with them in their community, that’s a good place to start, he added.
“Because along the way, you will come across speed bumps and hurdles and people will say, ‘Ah, you’re just a dreamer.’ But guess what, ladies and gentlemen? It starts with a dream,” Mandela said.
Love for their job makes the best doctors, lawyers, and presidents, he said. They stop seeing their job as work, and start seeing it as “an extension of who they are.”
Being a leader starts in one’s community, he said.
“To be a leader is to serve your community. It’s about standing up for those who can’t stand for themselves, and being a voice for those who are marginalized in our community,” Mandela said.
When someone serves their community, the first thing they do is talk to those who need help and listen, he added.
He said he’s at this event to encourage young people to dream big.
“If your dreams don’t scare you, you are not dreaming big enough,” Mandela said.
He agreed with MLK that the most important question to ask oneself is “What are we doing for others?”
On Martin Luther King Jr. Day people give service to their community, and that is similar to Mandela Day, which is on July 18, Mandela said.
Because Nelson dedicated 67 years of his life to community service and social justice, Ndaba said everyone should dedicate 67 minutes of their day to community service every Mandela Day.
“The beautiful thing is that when you choose that 67 minutes, you get to engage with someone that you wouldn’t usually engage with, you get to hear different stories that you wouldn’t actually care about,” Mandela said.
That 67 minutes grows to half a day, which grows to a full day, he added. “And we say, ‘Make every day a Mandela Day.’”
It is not always about money, he said. Some prefer to give money, but time is just as important as money, if not more so.
Consider being a mentor for one hour a week, he said. That adds to four hours a month, which can help someone who needs help feel heard.
With the way everything seems to be going, “We have to stand up taller than we’ve ever stood up before. Now we have to make our voices be heard
and shout louder than we’ve ever shouted before,” Mandela said.
Most people attending the event had social media, and each of those people had different feeds, he said. Each person is in the same room, yet has experienced a different reality.
With large media companies buying up small family run ones, where does the news come from, he asked. Who is reporting on the issues big companies don’t report on?
Despite this, people must not be afraid, Mandela said. “Let us understand that we also have the power, but our power comes when we work together.”
While he wants to encourage young people to dream big, he also wants them to consider smaller ways to contribute, he said.
Dream about becoming a president, but don’t forget about being a mayor, or being on the mayor’s council, Mandela said.
“Because guess what? They control budgets. I’m talking about the education budgets. I’m talking about the housing budgets, right? I’m talking about the homeless budgets. Who are we feeding today?” Mandela said.
Within one’s community is where they provide their best service, he added.
Mandela wrote a book titled “Going to the Mountain: Life Lessons from My Grandfather, Nelson Mandela.” He shared a lesson from the book with the audience.
The tallest tree has more responsibility than the other trees, because it makes sure the other trees get enough sunlight, water, and room for roots, he
said. The tall tree is privileged, and it has responsibility to help those who are not privileged.
Everyone attending the event has privilege, because someone having privilege means that the person doesn’t have to worry about where their next meal is coming from, and where they’re going to sleep, he said. Everyone there has a responsibility to help others.
He agreed with Coretta Scott King that freedom is never really won, but instead has to be continuously won again and again.
“She also said, great Coretta Scott King, that struggle is a never ending process. Freedom is never really won. You have to earn it and win it in every generation,” Mandela said.
MLK and Nelson fought against the same struggle in different countries and different continents, Ndaba Mandela said.
MLK said the only thing that matters is “What are you doing for others?” according to Mandela.
Nelson said, “It does not matter how many millions you have made. The real question is, how many millionaires have you created?” Ndaba Mandela said.
“I’m giving you another task. Whenever the ugly head of bigotry, racism returns, just give it a karate chop, please. Karate chop in the neck,” Mandela said.
WITH FRANCISCO OMAR FERNANDEZ RODRIGUEZ ffernandezrodriguez@ student.framingham.edu
Courtesy of Jerome Burke Ndaba Mandela speaking at the MLK Commemoration.
‘I wish more could’ve been in’ Mazmanian Gallery’s juried show celebrates opening night
By Ryan O’Connell Associate Editor
The Mazmanian Gallery held a reception for their annual juried show, featuring painting, sculpture, and graphic design work from 25 different student artists, on Jan. 28.
This year’s exhibition was curated by guest juror David Roane, a Princeton alumni and an art teacher, coach, and member of the diversity team at Noble & Greenough School in Dedham.
Roane was responsible for selecting work that spoke well together, as well as the first, second, third, and Art & Ideas theme award winners, said Ellie Krakow, director of the Mazmanian Gallery.
Prior to announcing the award recipients, Roane gave thanks to Krakow, Mazmanian Gallery intern Marcus Falcão, the Art Department, the artists who submitted to the juried show, and the students of Framingham State in attendance.
First place was awarded to Maddison Behringer for her typography book of the letter B. Roane described the piece as a “model of craftsmanship,” “vested with intent,” and “masterfully placed.”
Second place was awarded to Eli Gottschalk for her comic depicting a queer young adult relationship and mental health awareness. Roane added the work showed “excellent craftsmanship,” that the topic was deserving of awareness, and Gottschalk’s piece set a “hopeful tone into the future.”
Third place was awarded to Eliza Gaston for her photograph pairingsone of overalls and a shirt laid over a tree branch, and a second of a woman removing her top from behind - both mounted on fragments of denim. Roane said he enjoyed the playfulness of the piece, its inviting nature, and how it piques the viewer’s curiosity.
The Arts & Ideas theme award was awarded to Ziyuan Zhang for her painting of an ocean from the seafloor, and its connection to the Arts & Ideas theme “Vision & Vitality.” Roane pointed out the aerial perspective - the vision - and the swirling water - the vitality - in Zhang’s piece, and said both contributed to a “sense of wonder” and “full immersion” into the work.
Behringer, a senior communication arts major with a minor in graphic design, said it felt “really cool” to be in the juried show. “This was my first year ever submitting to it, and I was honored to be chosen as one of the students who were going to be presented,” she added.
She said her typography bookwhich she completed last fall as the final for her typography class - consists of nine spreads, each of which pair a letter form and text.
Behringer said it was fascinating to watch people she’d never met flip through the typography book.
“It was an interesting experience to see how they were perceiving it without any of the context,” she added.
Behringer said she really liked Zhang’s piece. “I just think it was very visually pleasing,” she said.
Mary Zouharis, a freshman studio art major with a concentration in illustration, had a cardboard sculpture of her bust - glued with hundreds of snippets of photographs taken of her - accepted into the juried show.
Zouharis said it was “really fun” to be included in the juried show, and she’s never had any of her work shown in a gallery before.
“It feels kind of like a thing that I would never be able to do, so it’s just nice to be a part of it,” she said.
Zouharis said the bust is an exact
tesque,” she said.
Ray said this was the first time she has submitted to the juried show, and seeing her artwork in the show is “cool, but also kind of embarrassing.
“I don’t usually have my art on display like this, so it’s very shocking,” she said.
She added her favorite piece was Falcão’s, a sculpture of a golden eagle made of reclaimed fabric.
Andreas Chaniotakis, a senior studio art major with a concentration in art education and a minor in 5-12 visual art education, had a still life painting accepted into the juried show, titled “Artery of Red.”
The painting, which depicts a green watering can resting on a red cloth, “focuses on the fabric rather than the objects, and objects trying to frame the fabric instead of the other way around,” Chaniotakis said.
and a minor in marketing, had a self portrait included in the show, depicting her holding a joint among her houseplants and a butterfly.
Crosby said this is actually her third year having a piece included in the juried show.
“I’m delighted that I have the honor to put my work in a show surrounded by other talented artists,” she said. Her self portrait, titled “Natural Habitat,” was made for her painting methods class in the fall, she said.
Crosby added the assignment was simply to create a self portrait, but she likes to “experiment with a lot of abstract and surreal placement of myself in my art.
“I like to imagine the worlds that could be lived in, and I imagine myself living amongst my plants, high as a kite,” she said.
Crosby added she’d like readers to visit @zencrosbyart on Instagram.
“This was my first year ever submitting to it, and I was honored to be chosen as one of the students who were going to be presented.”
- Maddison Behringer
Senior Communications Arts Major
replica - complete with measurements of her head and facial features - and was built as an assignment for her form and structure class.
The base is made of cardboard, she said, and its “skin” is a collage of cutouts sourced from 125 different photos of her head and shoulders, taken from 360 degrees around her.
Zouharis said the photos were difficult, as she began with thin, complicated cutouts on one side of the face that took a long time to cut and glue.
She added she also put things where they didn’t belong.
“In the hair there’s a few curl strands that have a photo of my eye on it, because I was like, ‘Why not?’
“And also I was running out of hair photos,” she said.
Autumn Ray, a junior majoring in studio art with a concentration in illustration and business and a minor in art history, had her painting “Pretty Landscape” included in the juried show.
Ray said the painting, which depicts a person laid against a tree and consumed by vines and flowers, was done as an assignment for her landscape painting class.
“I wanted to make it very beautiful but also have the human be gro-
He added he chose the red fabric because he thought it would be the most interesting hue to work with both with shadow and “trying to get all of the different reds out of the red.
“Red isn’t just red, it’s all these other colors mixed together - so I was experimenting with that,” he said.
Chaniotakis said while this isn’t the first show he’s had artwork featured in, this was his first inclusion in an exhibit at Framingham State.
“I’m really happy that I got into one of the student shows. … It feels great, especially with all my friends here and seeing their art,” he said.
“In my senior seminar class there’s probably four or five of us who have art up in there,” he added. “It’s really fitting because we’re all in the senior seminar, you know, closing out our time here at school, and we’re starting to make art that’s getting noticed. I think that’s really important.”
Chaniotakis said he really enjoyed the sequential drawing projects displayed in the gallery. “I think that class produced some amazing stuff, especially the one where it shows the before and after … really interesting to see the process.”
Zen Crosby, a junior studio art major with a concentration in ceramics
Marcus Falcão, a junior majoring in art history and studio art with a concentration in illustration, had a sculpture of a golden eagle made of upcycled fabric scraps included in the juried show.
Falcão said the eagle is specifically made of discarded Gucci products, and was made as part of the Reimagine Fashion project, led by Fashion Design & Retailing Professor Ruirui Zhang.
“It was a big focus on sustainability,” he added.
Falcão said the sculpture was finished in two weeks, and the initial frame of the bird was the most challenging step.
“I’m not too familiar with sculpture, and you need to make a base to put the fabric on top,” he said. “It was a lot of experimenting with materials.
“It’s kind of a mess underneath … a lot of duct tape, a lot of foam, a lot of wire, a lot of everything that could be glued,” he added.
Falcão said he was glad to be included in the show, and finds the curation process interesting. “You don’t know what’s going to be chosen, and I love that - what do they want to see?”
Falcão said he wants to encourage everyone to submit to the Mazmanian Gallery’s juried shows.
“Everyone should submit to it,” he said. “Even if you’re not an art student, even if it’s something you didsome silly project for a class or whatever, submit anything.
“They love variety, they love photography, things that aren’t the usual.”
[ Editor’s Note: Maddison Behringer is an Associate Editor for The Gatepost and Marcus Falcão is a Staff Illustrator for The Gatepost. ]
CONNECT WITH RYAN O’CONNELL roconnell1@student.framingham.edu
Mazmanian Gallery
Spread by Photos & Design Editor Adrien Gobin
Photos by Photos & Design Editors Adrien Gobin and Alexis Schlesinger
A guest taking a photo of the artwork at the Mazmanian Gallery the 2025 juried show Jan. 28.
Guest admiring artwork at the 2025 juried show Jan. 28.
Zen Crosby with their artwork at the 2025 juried show Jan. 28.
Ziyuan Zhang’s artwork at the 2025 juried show Jan. 28.
Marcus Falcão’s artwork at the 2025 juried show Jan. 28.
[ Editor’s Note: Marcus Falcão is a Staff Illustrator ]
Jasmine Owusu’s artwork at the 2025 juried show Jan. 28.
By Liv Dunleavy
Interim Asst. Arts & Features Editor
Throughout “Bob’s Burgers’” 14year run, fans have laughed, cried, laughed until they cried, and ran to the theaters, in search of that same hit of dopamine from day one. I have been one of those fans.
Season 15, episode 8 “They Slug Horses, Don’t They?” is one like many others following the release of the “Bob’s Burgers Movie” - an episode filled with a nuanced aura, one of new beginnings, evolving character development, and mending the unspoken troubles of major and minor characters.
The story of this one stands out among a plethora of other meaningful episodes though, because I find myself relating to it heavily.
With the plot revolving around a quarrel between Louise and Tina, the sisters escalate their squabble through “I’m Sorry” cards drawing a sequence of comics in their own anger to represent their side of the argument.
I see a lot of myself in this episode, as my sister and I would fight over small disagreements and it felt a lot like watching this.
It feels scary, being young, afraid, and angry, thinking, “Are we always going to be this way?”
The argument’s resolution was honestly what broke the dam. As an overly emotional person, I cry easily, but I cannot express the waterworks that streamed down my face as the sisters came to a compromise, because sisterhood is more important than a petty fight.
It came from their aunt Gayle, and her own story of dealing with sisterhood.
“We’re sisters. It’s like the person you love the most, who you also want to kill, but you don’t ’cause you love ’em so much.”
The cherry on top of the whole episode is the end credit song “We’ll Never Drift Too Far,” it pulls directly on my heart strings and makes me uncontrollably sob.
This episode is a must watch for any “Bob’s Burgers” fans.
Best of
By Ryan O’Connell Associate Editor
The directorial debut of actress Zoë Kravitz, “Blink Twice” checks all the boxes for a great psychological-thriller.
The film follows working women Frida (Naomi Ackie) and Jess (Alia Shawkat) who, after blending in at a cocktail party, meet billionaire Slater King (Channing Tatum) and are invited to spend “a few days” at his private island with several of his closest friends.
Things are perfect for the women, whose days are spent drinking, smoking, and competing against each other for Slater’s attentionuntil Jess is bit by a viper. She wants to leave. Frida wants to stay in paradise.
“Blink Twice” reminds me a lot of another actor’s directorial debutJordan Peele’s “Get Out.”
Because like “Get Out,” “Blink Twice” uses sci-fi and horror to spotlight abuse - abuse that is unfortunately far from fictional - against women, especially women in the entertainment industry.
Both stories follow characters that are depicted as outsiders in high society. They both suffer extreme injustices and violations of the mind and body. They are both abandoned by authorities who, under no conditions, will believe them.
And in both movies, the abusers get what’s coming to them.
“Blink Twice” is not a carbon copy of “Get Out.” It has its own merits. It has an interesting lineup of characters. It has a stronger emphasis on mystery. Its ending is definitely more hopeful.
In short, Kravitz’ first film is excellent on both a surface level and as a piece of contemporary art, and I have a feeling we won’t be forgetting this one.
CONNECT WITH RYAN O’CONNELL roconnell1@student.framingham.edu
‘Dandadan’
By Owen Glancy Interim Arts & Features Editor
Last year was excellent for anime and saw an impressive list of both returning classics and hype new shows. Of all the anime released last year though, “Dandadan” stands head and shoulders above the rest as the craziest.
The show takes all of the tropes and mannerisms that have come to define the shonen genre and filters them through the frankly insane lens of the mangaka, Yukinobu Tatsu. Tatsu’s time as an assistant under Tatsuki Fujimoto, the mangaka behind “Chainsaw Man,” is evident as “Dandadan” has all the same chaotic insanity that Fujimoto’s works have. However, rather than completely giving into the chaos, the show knows exactly when to reel it back in and play it safe.
In one episode, the main duo Momo and Okarun will be fighting a mantis shrimp alien inside a flooded school and in the next episode, they’ll be running around their campus trying to find one another to talk about ghosts.
This blend of chaotic fight scenes and comedic slice-of-life relaxation makes for a show that both excites and engages the audience at every turn. The music and animation really add to this as well. From the banger opening theme song performed by Japanese artist Creepy Nuts, to stand out scenes like Acrobatic Silky’s past, the production values on display are shockingly high.
Despite all its tropey scenes, sudden ending that feels like an abrupt stop more than an actual conclusion, and some cringey fan service, “Dandadan” is proof that when the positives are this noticeable, the negatives are little more than nitpicks.
CONNECT WITH OWEN GLANCY oglancy@student.framingham.edu ‘We
By Emma Lyons Editorial Staff
“We Live in Time,” released Oct. 18, is one of the most beautiful movies I’ve seen in a long time.
The movie tells the love story of Almut and Tobias, drawn together when Almut hits the newly divorced Tobias with her car. Tossed together by fate - and the Fiat Almut drivesthe pair navigates through the highs and lows of their life together - everything from celebrations of career success to Almut’s arduous cancer battle.
Florence Pugh shines on the screen as she plays Almut. Despite having a large reputation and recognition, Pugh disappears as she depicts Almut, making viewers forget they are even watching anyone act.
Andrew Garfield similarly disappears as Tobias. Garfield’s emotional acting throughout the film makes you feel as if you are going through the events of the movie alongside him, not just watching the story through the screen.
Though dealing with heavy topics and events, this movie is surprisingly comedic. Along with all of the emotional and heartfelt scenes are poignantly placed moments of natural comedy, with each character finding their own ways to bring joy into their hardships.
But, don’t let me mislead you - you may finish the movie with tear stains down your face. I definitely did. The emotions in this film run very high, and at the end you feel like you’ve lived a whole life in the one hour and 47 minutes Tobias and Almut did.
“We Live in Time” is raw, funny, heartfelt, and a masterpiece. You would be wasting your time if you watch any other romance movie but this one.
CONNECT WITH EMMA LYONS elyons3@student.framingham.edu
2024
By Emily Monaco Editorial Staff
A resurrection of artistry in music from the indie pop subculture took rise in early 2024. Caroline Polachek brings us back into her masterful work and auditory excellence with a special edition release.
Well known for her experimental music, Polachek released this album on Feb. 14. The album “Desire I Want to Turn Into You: Everasking Edition” features some of her original songs from the album “Desire I Want to Turn Into You.” Previous songs featured include “Sunset,” “Bunny is a Rider,” “Blood and Butter,” and “Billions” - just to name a few.
However, special editions of previous songs have been released on this new album in addition to some newer songs. Some of these songs include “Butterfly Net” featuring Weyes Blood, “Gambler’s Prayer,” “Crude Drawing of an Angel,” and my personal favorite, “I BelieveAcoustic Version.”
This edition of the album takes more artistic liberties and a more poetic approach. Emulating similar vocals as to Enya or Imogen Heap, Polachek’s voice offers an almost paradisiacal listening experience. From the eclectic beat of “Pretty In Possible” to the longing of “I Believe” this album covers every base - a versatile soundtrack to life.
“I Believe - Acoustic Version” was featured on her NPR Tiny Desk Concert and Polachek described the process of transferring her pop song into an acoustic version as most difficult. I highly recommend listening to her Tiny Desk Concert as well.
The perfect Valentine’s Day gift of 2025 would be this special edition album by Caroline Polachek.
By Michael Trueswell Staff Writer
Aardman Animations’ most recent movie “Wallace and Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl” lives up to the expectations and legacy of the “Wallace and Gromit” franchise.
This followup to the short film “The Wrong Trousers” from over 30 years ago, has made noticeable improvements on the claymation, with the return of expressive voice acting making it one of the best films of 2024.
This British claymation comedy delivers timeless entertainment with its iconic visual gags, wordplay, tone-setting music, and sound effects.
“Vengeance Most Fowl” turns up the stakes with the return of the ruthless Feathers McGraw - and this time it’s personal. McGraw spends his confinement plotting to escape from captivity to steal the blue diamond and finally take his revenge on Wallace and Gromit for foiling his past theft attempt.
With a runtime of one hour 22 minutes, the film follows Wallace’s new robot invention, “Norbot” to help with household tasks and make ends meet. McGraw, having not forgotten the pair, sticks his beak back in Wallace and Gromit’s lives by framing Wallace for multiple thefts, wrecking his good name and ultimately leading to quite the kerfuffle.
Gromit loyally goes to great lengths to investigate the thefts to clear Wallace’s name and stop McGraw with the local constables hot on his tail conducting their own investigation.
Eventually exposing a surprise twist near the climax of the picture that baffles the viewers and recontextualizes Wallace and Gromit’s past scuffle with McGraw, adding to the rewatchability of the film.
By Raena Hunter Doty Staff Writer
If I love one thing, it is earnest but hilarious comedy series that neither drag on for too long nor wrap up before they truly feel complete.
If it sounds like I’m talking about “The Good Place,” you’ve perfectly understood my vibe.
For fans of “The Good Place” or anyone interested in what I described above, I can’t recommend “A Man on the Inside” enough.
I won’t lie that Ted Danson’s role as the main character is what piqued my interest, and he did not disappoint. In the show, he excels in his role as Charles, an old man who’s slightly goofy and slightly sad but entirely loveable.
The story follows Charles as he’s recruited by a private investigator to infiltrate a nursing home in pursuit of some lost jewelry. He gets to live out many people’s childhood dreams as a spy, and he takes advantage of it - much to the chagrin of his employer.
Along the way, though, he gets to know the residents, who are goofy, sweet, and chaotic as they live out their best years.
Hilarious as it is, it’s also an earnest story about what it means to hold onto your life and sense of self as you grow older. A population so often cut off from society has so much to provide the world, and “A Man on the Inside” showcases all of this.
It’s short - just eight episodesbut it never needed to be longer. Too often these days, a single-season, eight-episode series on Netflix just screams “my ending will be slightly unsatisfying.” But “A Man on the Inside” is a perfect package of comedy and kindness. If you have eight hours, you have a good day waiting for you with “A Man on the Inside.”
‘Alligator Bites Never Heal’
By Antonio Machado Staff Writer
Last year was a great year for music, with an incredible assortment of album releases by a variety of artists spanning a wide range of genres. Among all of these superb releases, “Alligator Bites Never Heal” by Doechii managed to leave quite the large bite mark on the music industry, earning the musician her first three GRAMMY award nominations.
The musician’s third mixtape, “Alligator Bites Never Heal,” demonstrates an artist who has begun to refine her craft, with expertly selected beats and creatively placed ad-libs. Despite being a mixtape, the project provides a cohesive look into Doechii’s insecurities, relationship struggles, and how she’s addressed the pressures of success - and it all sounds amazing.
A Floridian first and foremost, Doechii’s beats and lyrics all drip with southern references, providing a well-rounded view of the artist as a person. Through her animated chaos, Doechii takes some influence from the works of Kendrick Lamar, Nicki Minaj, Busta Rhymes, and countless other iconic figures in hip-hop, and their influences amalgamate into Doechii’s very own charismatic growl.
However, the record doesn’t only stay within the realm of hip-hop. Scattered throughout the 19-track mixtape are R&B- and pop-flavored songs, reminiscent of something found on a Doja Cat record. Following the success of her Recording Industry Association of American platinum-certified R&B single “What It Is? (Block Boy),” Doechii is unafraid to “sang a lil’ bit,” and she is all the better for it.
“Alligator Bites Never Heal,” but nobody wants Doechii’s bite marks to leave them. This mixtape provides a look into an incredibly appealing up-and-coming artist and is undoubtedly one of the best records to have come out of 2024. CONNECT WITH RAENA HUNTER DOTY rdoty@student.framingham.edu CONNECT WITH EMILY MONACO emonaco@student.framingham.edu
mtrueswell@student.framingham.edu
amachado4@student.framingham.edu
Diversity - a business proposal
By Sarah Daponde Interim Asst. Arts & Features Editor
The Center for Inclusive Excellence hosted “Diversity as a Driver of Success,” a panel of speakers who discussed different ways diversity impacts the business industry on Jan. 25.
The event is one of several in January and February to honor Martin Luther King Jr. and educate students on his ideals of equality.
Jorge Riveras, professor of business, began the discussion with an introduction of the rest of the panel which included Laura Lamontagne, professor of economics, John Palabiyik, professor of hospitality, and Erastus Ndinguri, professor of management.
Ndinguri first discussed how many organizations either have barriers to stop inclusion of certain people or policies that are ineffective in creating diversity.
He said many policies about equality are made without the input of the groups who are affected by the policies, are not implemented well, or are never improved or updated.
Ndinguri added that there is a disconnect between “what leaders think
is diversifying the organization and what the employees think is diversifying the organization.”
Palabiyik then discussed how he views diversity in the hospitality industry, saying he could not think of any other industry that aligned so much with King’s dream of equality.
He gave the example of a cruise ship. “1,700 employees from 60 different countries - if this is not diversity, what is?” he asked.
He added there are different levels of affordability on a cruise ship, different options to include more customers.
Palabiyik connected tourism to King’s view of diversity, saying “Dr. King says it’s like connecting to each other, including everybody, using all these languages, using all these cultures.”
Diverse customers bring access to more markets, he added, which allows the industry to grow.
Lamontagne then shifted the discussion to an economic perspective, saying, “Any firm that is choosing to partake in discrimination is going to essentially run itself out of business.”
She said any company that only chooses their employees out of a cer-
tain kind of people limits their options and will be beaten out by other companies who are willing to hire the best overall candidates.
This is why many firms have made commitments to strengthen their diversity and inclusivity, she added.
Lamotagne gave the example of inclusivity in sports and the evidence of diversity being an advantage to teams.
“Teams that integrated first were the most successful - besides the Yankees, and they incurred the extra cost,” Lamontagne said. “Acceptance correlates to a better outcome.”
The conversation turned to Riveras, who discussed his past career in business with a company with offices in 50 different countries.
“What that brought to our company was a multitude of perspectives and ideas,” said Riveras, discussing how companies like this have the advantage of more innovation and creativity because of the different cultures of the employees.
He noted Elon Musk’s impact on American companies, saying, “Many in the industry, they were actually foreigners … and they have really impacted our industry in our nation.”
Without immigrant workers, there
would be less supply. Therefore, demand would increase and so would product prices, said Palabiyik.
He said immigrants are helping the economy in America by working here, not taking jobs from others.
“Einstein - whose job did he steal?” Ndinguri added.
The panel concluded the conversation by telling the audience how to promote King’s visions of diversity and acceptance.
Instead of making an argument on the importance of diversity through a social viewpoint, make the argument through a business perspective, they said.
Instead of being political, Riveras said to use facts and have sources to back up arguments. He then held up a sheet of paper with references for the information he discussed at the event.
He said making diversity in the business industry important to everyone is all about how to advertise it.
“Everybody wants more money and diversity has a case for it,” said Ndinguri.
CONNECT WITH SARAH DAPONDE sdaponde@student.framingham.edu
ARMYs run wild for Jin’s EP ‘Happy’
By Liv Dunleavy Interim Asst. Arts & Features Editor
It’s official, Worldwide Handsome man Kim Seokjin (Jin of BTS) has finally returned home from his mandatory military service and released his first solo EP. After waiting for what felt like an eternity, Jin was released from his duty and started cracking down on his BTS to-do list.
In this shockingly short amount of time, Jin has been booked and busy, with so many brand ambassador deals, hugging 1,000 ARMYs, the Olympic torch lighting ceremony, and apparently, promoting his first solo EP, “Happy.”
Consisting of six tracks, including the main track “Running Wild,” Jin’s “Happy” released Nov. 15, followed the pre-release track “I’ll Be There” which came out on Oct. 25.
With the title track came a cinematic masterpiece of a music video simulating an “end of days” setting, where Jin and his dog companion spend their last days on earth together sharing precious memories and joyful moments of love and companionship.
The video was widely well regarded by fans and the media. The song is also an all English release, making it more accessible to the western audience as well. As always, Jin has gone above and beyond the BTS standard and delivered a memorable, catchy, and heartwarming song that gets us all in our feels.
As for the rest of the tracks, “I’ll Be There,” the pre-release single, was
just a punch in the gut.
Regardless of how fun and upbeat it is, and no matter how much fun I have dancing in my car, walking around, in my home alone blasting it on a speaker - this song has made so many ARMYs feel so reassured by the lyrics and the message he sends through his song.
“I will be there forever / I’ll stay the same, I’ll be there for you / There for you Oh-oh-oh (Oh-oh-oh) / With this song I say to you / I swear that I will always sing for you”
This section of the chorus is just one example from the lyrics that solidifies Jin’s dedication to BTS and ARMY and it’s something that means so much to us as fans.
My favorite track on the EP has to be “Falling” though, with the backing vocals of Jin’s angelic voice, the emorock instrumental elements that just make me feel like I’m going to explode, and his intense and powerful vocals that make the whole song just
feel like yearning - this song is a 10/10 in my book.
The collab of the century occurred this very EP when WENDY of girl group Red Velvet got on a track and she and Jin collectively changed the world with “Heart on the Window.”
Their voices are like the feeling of warmth on a bright sunny day, the song’s upbeat tempo combined with the lyrics comparing drawing a heart on a foggy window being drawn more and more permanently so every day they can show that their love is promised.
Track three, “Another Level,” gives me really big TXT (Tomorrow by Together) vibes, so if you’re a fan of them,
definitely give it a listen. The message of progressing in a tough task or journey even when you feel like you have no fight left in you makes the track so much more electrifying, sending chills down my spine.
The song is motivational and climactic, it builds and builds until he breaks into belting the chorus. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions that I can’t stop getting back in line for.
The last track on the EP, “I will come to you,” is in classic Jin fashion. A soft ballad, making your heart weak and tears roll from your eyes as you consume his passion and celestial voice.
This song is just immediate heart-clenching softness. He has always managed to take a ballad and carve a hole in my heart where his love is supposed to go. I felt like he was singing straight to my soul.
Overall this EP is a masterpiece made of varying sensations and a wonderful display of Seokjin’s talents. I look forward to as many more releases from our Jinnie as possible.
Rating: A+
I swear that I will always stream for you~
Ronnie Chiu-Lin / THE GATEPOST
Puzzles
41. Hot guy
42. Fudd who hunts a “wascally wabbit”
43. Chip in?
44. Relinquish
45. “D” of LED
46. Like some rec leagues
47. Flowery necklace
49. Crooked
51. Tripoli resident
54. Alaskan ___ Kai (husky’s smaller relative)
55. Made a meal for
58. Self-image
59. It’s thinnest on your eyelids
61. Part of a reindeer
63. Mom stretched to her limits?
66. Wrap on the Indian subcontinent
67. Central muscle group
68. Like ATMs that don’t charge extra
69. Similar
70. Have guests over
71. Not look forward to
72. Apt rhyme of “squeak” DOWN
1. Jump scare in horror movies, e.g.
2. Sign of fall
3. Tribute group (In this answer, note letters 1-4)
4. Reciprocated (... letters 4-7)
5. Cynthia ___ Stephanie Lauper
6. Hidden supply
7. Opera solo
8. “Your secret’s safe with me!” (... letters 10-12)
9. Apt rhyme of “tap”
10. “Llama Llama Loose Tooth ___” (rhyming children’s book)
11. Interior design
12. Used, as money
14. Sn, to a chemist
19. Hog food
21. College, to an Aussie
26. Pungent mayo
28. Royal home
30. Probable
32. Baking ingredient that’ll get you baked?: Abbr.
33. Lilac or lavender
35. Bioengineered crop letters
36. Gold or silver, e.g.
38. Sign of winter (... letters 6-9)
39. Gobbled up
40. Danson of “The Good Place”
48. Right, on a map
50. Boy toy?
51. Bloodsucker
52. Packed house?
53. Wild hogs
54. Slicer or dicer
56. Spooky
57. Take a swig, say
60. Composer Stravinsky
62. Org.concerned with liquids
64. Firm up, as Jell-O
65. Mens ___ (criminal intent)
Puzzle solutions are now exclusively online.
Students collaging their 2025 aspirations at FSU Art Club’s 2025 Dream Board event.
Spread by Photos & Design Editor Alexis Schlesinger
Photos by Photos & Design Editor Alexis Schlesinger and Staff
Photographer Eliana Buono