The Maroon March 22, 2024 Issue

SHOWER SHIVERS

Outdated plumbing causes water supply issues in Francis Hall

By Frankie Esteves fmesteves@my.loyno.edu

When Loyola sophomore Meghan Hall woke up for her morning shower in early March, the water was ice cold in Francis Hall. is came after months of plumbing issues in the building, including a hot water disruption which lasted over 24 hours.

“ e water wouldn’t get hot even in the hottest setting. It’s frustrating because we can’t do anything to x it,” Hall said.

Francis Hall, the upper-classmen residence hall of the main campus, has been dealing with plumbing issues since the beginning of the 2023-24 school year. From hot water shortages to uctuating water pressure, residents have been expressing concern.

According to director of facilities Kyle Gregore, these issues stem from Francis Hall’s vertical layout. e

100 Years of

building relies on special equipment known as booster pumps to push the hot water up the pipes. e regular lifespan for this equipment is around 20 years; however, the ones in Francis Hall are 27-years-old, causing frequent disruptions in hot water and pressure throughout the school year.

e facilities department secured a replacement for the booster pumps which would resolve these issues for the residents of the building. ey were scheduled to nally be replaced by mid-March.

But on March 10, hot water disruptions were reported in several buildings on the main campus, which led to most of the main campus not having hot water for two days.

e facilities department identi ed the problem when they found a series of ruptured pipes around campus, caused by a buildup of pressure. ese pipes deliver both hot and cold water

from the central plant to the buildings on campus.

e New Orleans Sewage and Water Board, the provider of water for the city, identi es its water as “hard water,” due to the high amount of dissolved minerals in the water. e pressure buildup that ruptured the pipes was due to calcium buildup in the boiler lines.

e facilities department treats all the water on campus with additives to prevent calci cation but some pipes still ruptured and had to be taken o line to be xed.

Gregore said that the university currently has a water maintenance contract in place to help prevent any more hot water disruptions in the future. e department of facilities is also in the process of replacing the damaged pipes and the ones that show signs of calci cation.

Photo by Tanesha Taylor / e Maroon

BSU

week aims

By Jordan Higgins jrhiggin@my.loyno.edu

One of Loyola’s longest standing organizations, the Black Student Union aims to unify students of color on campus through various initiatives, including their annual "BSU Week.”

This year’s theme was “Everybody Loves the Sunshine,” and each event was planned to produce positive engagement between BSU members and students of color on campus.

The week began March 10 at Household of Faith Church, and each event was planned to incorporate all members of BSU, such as a yoga night led by past Miss BSU Areina Walker.

Other events included a snack box fundraiser, a movie night, and an open mic night. The week of events ended on March 16 with a beautification initiative at Audubon Park.

BSU President Makayla Williams said the main goal of BSU this year was to

to unify students of color

provide a safe space and unify black organizations with other students of color on campus.

She said, “We wanted to do different events that could grasp the attention of people with different personalities and backgrounds. I feel that these events meet the goal of unifying students of color on campus.”

within the students of color on campus.

“We want to promote that BSU is a place where we can find harmony and be together and exist without retribution from the outside,” Every said.

"We deserve a place to feel recognized and heard, and to feel comfortable bringing parts of ourselves to the table"

“We hope that we gain more members, who eventually will turn into leaders on this campus,” Williams said.

— Pharrell Every BSU programming board member

Pharrell Every, BSU programming board member, was most excited about BSU Week’s service day, believing these events highlight the idea that BSU can create community and opportunities

Every believes that BSU is a safe space for Black students to feel welcome and supported on campus.

“We deserve a place to feel recognized and heard, and to feel comfortable bringing parts of ourselves to the table, where other spaces that may be a little more complicated,” Every said. “We want to show people who we are, what kind of organization we are, and that the space we cultivate is important, and it matters.”

SLM offers vans to students organizations

By Lonniesha Carroll llcarrol@my.loyno.edu

Loyola has van transportation services and they want students to know about it.

Student Life and Ministry Office Manager Elliot Raphel said although this service has been offered, there has been little publicity about it.

Raphael said, in the past, organizations have used the vans for church, service work, conferences, and even to run errands for events.

To rent the vans, students must follow some protocols, which includes paying a $50 daily fee, providing the address, and explaining what their organization is doing beforehand, he said.

Students should fill out the reservation form on HowIConnect. If students email Raphel directly, he will direct them to fill out the form.

According to Raphel, the reservation form has to be filled out no less than a week before the departure date, and if the dates are available, students will receive an email.

Students struggle with getting accommodations on and off campus

By Christopher Nesbit cwnesbit@my.loyno.edu

Mass communication freshman

Sophia Renzi relies on the Office of Accessible Education for testing accommodations. However, because her class ends after 5 p.m., she has been unable to receive these accommodations.

With the demolition of Mercy Hall and classes extending later than previous years, many students' class schedules now extend beyond the operating hours of the OAE, leaving those with classes after 5 p.m. needing to work closely and far in advance with OAE for testing accommodations for those classes.

Renzi said, "When I tried filling out the form to take a test for my class, I couldn't select a time during my class. When I asked the OAE, they said they were closed and told me to ask my professor to meet my accommodations."

Femi Adegoke, political science junior, faced difficulties securing proper accommodations for an off-campus trip through Student Life and Ministry during winter break because she was unable to contact the OAE.

“It's critical to know that the vans are on a first come first serve basis and are currently getting lots of traction,” Raphel said.

Raphel recognizes that the application process may be overwhelming for students, but said ensuring a student is an authorized driver is the most complex part.

Once the application is completed and approved, he said students have to set up a meeting with him, as he goes over rules and expectations that everyone must know, which includes not traveling 150 miles outside of New Orleans.

“Above all, it is within our safety for students here at Loyola on campus to go through these initial steps, and it is very crucial to their well-being,” he said.

After these initial steps are completed, Raphael said he hands over the keys.

Raphael said the student organizations that use the vans regularly have a sense of freedom to make their events successful.

“As a reservation manager, I hope that the students use the resources available,” he said. “Here at Loyola, all students are a priority.”

sha said.

DeRusha added if a student specifies their accommodations to SLM, they will make sure everything is clear with the student and run it by OAE for their input.

Adegoke said she didn’t inform the OAE of the issue afterwards because she didn’t want anyone to get in trouble, but said she wishes she’d advocated for herself more.

Amy King, the director of the OAE, acknowledged the issues raised by students. She explained the current limitations in meeting students' needs after 5 p.m. and how students can secure the proper accommodations they need. The OAE Americans with Disabilities Handbook, page 11, states that if students require proctoring services beyond regular office hours, they must make arrangements a minimum of two weeks prior to the scheduled exam with their faculty and OAE.

“It was difficult having the accommodations be met outside of having me sleep in a closet or laundry room.”

— Femi Adegoke, Political science senior

"It was difficult having the accommodations be met outside of having me sleep in a closet or laundry room," Adegoke said. "I don’t think it was malicious at all, but Student Life and Ministry weren't really able to meet the need I have outlined by OAE.”

Jacob DeRusha, the university minister for social justice and immersions, clarified the process students undertake to specify their accommodations to SLM.

“For overnight housing, we have a Google form that [students] fill out,” he said. “It asks several questions, such as what gender do you identify as, what genders are you comfortable sharing a room with, and then finally, do you have any general accommodations?” DeRu-

"What I've found in my years of experience is that students sometimes approach a faculty member who, in some way, indicates they cannot meet the students' needs," King said. "If the issue isn’t articulated to our office, we cannot fix the problem."

King noted that the Testing Coordinator position, who’s responsible for proctoring exams for the OAE, is vacant. The office is actively seeking a replacement.

"The Testing Coordinator position was changed to an hourly position and is currently open and being advertised," King said. "We hope to have the flexibility to make some adjustments."

The OAE aims to improve communication with students and support them in any way possible, she said.

"If you have any questions or concerns about your accommodations, you've got to let us know because we need to work together," King said.

Professor has plans for a greener Loyola

By Violet Bucaro vabucaro@my.loyno.edu

Loyola is making efforts to make the campus more green, according to biology professor Mark Tobler.

The community gardens, which are funded by Student Government Association to grow food for Iggy's Cupboard, are maintained by Tobler, volunteers, and the Environmental Action committee.

There are plans to move the community gardens. Currently, they are now located outside of the library by the bike racks but will be moved outside of the chapel when it is fully constructed. This move will also include planting wildflowers and plants with sitting areas along each side of the building.

“It would be a great place to come and relax after class,” Tobler said.

Tobler also wants to create pollination gardens in the sculpture garden between Bobet and Marquette Halls. He said it’s a feasible space since not much is being done with the space now.

The Azby Greenhouse, which is on the roof of Monroe Hall, is home to native and non-native plants used for research and experimentation.

Tobler said there are many ideas for developing the greenhouse, along with expanding outreach by giving out plants, and one day developing an app to track the progress of plants.

“Sometimes people’s ideas of plants are just green patches of grass, but the campus has potential to become something more,” Tobler said.

2023 Miss BSU Areina Walker leads Madison Gardner and Braylon Polk in yoga during BSU week on March 13, 2024. Courtesy of Areina Walker

Student Life and Ministry van sits parked behind Stallings Hall. SLM offers the vans to student organizations for a $50 daily fee. Maleigh Crespo/The Maroon

Students call for support as they celebrate Ramadan

By Elinor Upham esupham@my.loyno.edu

Computer science senior Zaynab Zeini’s favorite part of Ramadan is breaking her fast with her friends. “It feels more like ‘Oh my god,’ we're all celebrating together or choosing to come here and do this together,”Zeini said.

The month of Ramadan celebrates when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. Muslims around the world, and here at Loyola, observe Ramadan by fasting, focusing on community, and bettering themselves through things like prayer.

Gabrielle Smith, political science sophomore, observes Ramadan by fasting, praying, memorizing the Quran, and avoiding “idle wastes of time,” like movies and music.

For Smith, Ramadan is about remembering God and her place in the world.

Loyola provides some accommodations and resources for students during Ramadan primarily through Student Affairs and Student Life and Ministry.

Ken Weber said there is one interfaith prayer room on each campus, halal food in Iggy’s Cupboard and Broadway Activities Center, and take-out meals from the Orleans Room available on request. Students can also get accommodations from professors for religious absences.

Zeini said, “I feel pretty supported and I have pretty supportive teachers.” She continued to say that she thinks the OR take-out meals are a good resource for on-campus students.

According to Zeini, she wants to see professors be more accommodating to Muslim students during Ramadan.

She said, “I know there's going to be some days where it's going to be pretty exhausting and feel really bad physically bad,” in reference to attending classes during Ramadan.

Smith said that she is worried about Eid, the culmination of Ramadan, because she feels unsure if her professors will excuse her absence from classes in order for her to take part in the celebration.

Executive Assistant to the Provost Kurt Bindewald said, “All accommodations, including those for religious observances, must be discussed and agreed to sufficiently in advance between a student and individual professors.”

He continued to say that students who feel that a religious absence that is covered by Loyola policies is not allowed by a professor should reach out to their advisor and the dean of their college.

Bindewald said, “The key to this and all special accommodations is timely communication between a student and a professor.”

Smith said that while she appreciates the support that Loyola gives to students during Ramadan, she thinks that the university needs to do more and not just during Ramadan.

Smith feels that “it is very clear that the administration and faculty and students have some very harmful attitudes towards Muslims in the rest of the year.”

Vice President of Marketing and Communications Rachel Hoormann said in response to statements regarding the university’s perceived lack of support for Muslim students that “all students should be confident that the university supports their basic needs through our campus services.”

SGA celebrates first all women cabinet

By Kloe Witt kgwitt@my.loyno.edu

It’s a woman's world this year in the Student Government Association with the first recorded all women cabinet in the organization's history.

When choosing her cabinet for her year as Loyola’s SGA president, Makayla Hawkins didn’t intend to make history.

This wasn’t an intentional milestone to reach. According to Hawkins, when picking out this year's cabinet, she and vice president Sydney Randall selected the positions purely based on resumé.

But it just so happened they selected the first all women cabinet since 2012, as far back as SGA records go.

“We never had the intention of picking an all female cabinet. It was who

could do the job the best, who had the most qualifications. And it just so happened to be an all women's cabinet,” Randall said.

Randall said there are stereotypes that form around cabinets with different types of members and what they will accomplish. There were stereotypes of an all women’s cabinet being petty, drama-filled, and a mess, but Randall said that wasn’t much of a problem for them.

Rather, Randall said they found something special.

“I like that we can confide in each other. And it might not just be because it's a female cabinet. But it also really helps to know that you have people that relate to you and that are like you,” Randall said.

But that something special doesn’t end there. Equity and inclusion officer

University spokesperson departs

By Myles McWilliams mcmcwill@my.loyno.edu

Rachel Hoormann, the vice president of marketing and communications, is leaving Loyola to work as the president of the marketing and strategic initiatives at Delgado Community College.

Hoormann came to Loyola about five years ago under the leadership of Tania Tetlow. Since then, she has played a major part in the representation of Loyola to society.

Before she came to Loyola, she worked at Tulane University as the president of mass communications.

Hoormann, as an alum of Loyola, wanted to help the school in any way possible, so she took the open position doing public relations for the university.

Hoorman said, “I am interested in building upon my experience in higher education communications but also having new challenges.”

The university is currently looking for a temporary replacement for Hoorman’s position.

Hoormann and the university are trying to make the transition smooth as Hoorman leaves Loyola.

Hoormann said her last day was March 15, and she does not know when a replacement will be announced.

Faculty and staff will be notified when a new contact has been identified, she said.

Stephanie Oblena said it was an empowering experience for her to be a part of this cabinet.

“It's such a special thing to be able to share your work and collaborate with women, especially in a patriarchal society, where we don't really get to take up the big positions. Even if this is on the smaller front and smaller scale, this is something that means something to us,” Oblena said.

Although the milestone is a special one to reach, Hawkins said the university still has a lot of work to do.

“Although I think it's cool that we're the first all-women cabinet, I also think it's sad that we're the first one so far,” Hawkins said.

Chief of staff Mia Vitello said Loyola’s upper administration and board of trust-

ees aren’t very diverse. She said SGA having diversity not only in gender, but in race and culture as well, shows how well they reflect the student body and the university should take a note.

“If the representatives for the student body are able to do this,” Vitello said. “There's no reason why that can't be reflected in the upper administration of our university.”

Randall said the university can continue to increase this diversity and reach milestones through faculty and upper administration positions without looking to check a diversity box if they stick to their Jesuit values.

As this cabinet's year term comes to an end, Randall said she hopes they and future cabinets have one common goal: to leave Loyola better than you found it.

Search for vice president of enrollment continues

By Matthew Richards mlricha2@my.loyno.edu

Loyola is currently interviewing candidates to fill their vice president of enrollment management position.

The search is being led by Interim Provost Justin Daffron, S.J. and Chief Operating Officer Carol Markowitz. The university enlisted the services of Chicago-based search firm WittKieffer to aid them in the selection process.

“We have assembled a search committee to work with WittKieffer to identify candidates that meet the qualifications and qualities that we’re looking for and will embrace Loyola’s mission and strengths as a Catholic, Jesuit institution,” Rachel Hoormann, the outgoing vice president of marketing and communications for the school, said.

missions,” Daffron said. “That includes setting strategies for financial aid policies, working closely with the director of financial aid, and making recommendations to faculty shared governance committees on admissions criteria.”

Appointing someone to fill the role permanently will provide more stability for Loyola as they seek to maintain maximum appeal in recruiting potential students and faculty members, along with the roughly 4,500 students currently enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs.

Hoorman said she does not play a role in finding the replacement, but she believes that Loyola’s leadership will find someone suited for the role.

Hoormann said, “The incredibly talented and dedicated marketing and communication team will continue to produce excellent work as they have throughout the time that I worked with them.”

The role is an important one at the university, as the VPEM works in tandem with the Office of Academic Affairs and the Office of Financial Aid to develop admissions standards and guidelines that aim to help Loyola better recruit students, retain them, and ensure their success all the way through graduation.

University Senate chair and College of Law professor M. Isabel Medina said, “As universities throughout the country respond to the predicted drop in college aged applicants, having a VP for enrollment management who brings expertise, creativity and experience to our recruitment, financial aid and admissions practices will enhance and strengthen our competitiveness and attractiveness to students.”

An announcement and appointment of a candidate is expected to come around late March at the earliest. See RAMADAN, page 12

“The VP helps to set strategy for ad-

Left to right from top: Stephanie Oblena, Sydney Randall, Melody Perez, Dani Padilla, Makayla Hawkins, Diamond Dixon, Lauren Kohlman, Mia Vitello, and Jai Shy. Courtesy of Asia Riddle

Rachel Hoormann. Hoormann left Loyola on March 15.

'The Sweet East': An esoteric odyssey for the chronically online

By Mia Oliva mfoliva@my.loyno.edu

If a split screen sensory Tik Tok was adapted into a film, the result would be Sean Price Williams’ directorial debut, “The Sweet East."

The film follows Lillian (Talia Ryder), a highschooler on a class trip to Washington, D.C., who is swiftly transported to an alternate dimension in which the world is her oyster. Having no desire to return, she embarks on an East coast escapade where she encounters offbeat, idiosyncratic individuals like filmmaker

Molly (Ayo Edebiri) and dodgy scholar Lawrence (Simon Rex).

“The Sweet East” is unparalleled to anything of recent release by virtue of its phantasmal genre-bending and jocular political commentary. I can see why some audiences were displeased with its contents, considering that in all its whimsical glory, it lacks a fair amount of conviction. However, this seems to have been Williams’ intent;

“The film's essence is ultimately unattainable, which, in my opinion, makes it more worthwhile”

some things aren’t meant to be taken to heart, particularly in art. Ryder’s Lillian is subtle yet captivating, posing as a quirked-up damsel far from distress. For someone with few film credits, “The Sweet East” assures a promising path for Ryder. Getting her start on Broadway, Ryder sings an original piece, “Evening Mirror," in the film’s title sequence. It’s evident that she’s

a natural bound to be booked and busy in the near future.

The film’s essence is ultimately unattainable, which in my opinion, makes it more worthwhile. It’s hard to believe that this is the work of sober individuals, in the sense that its premise gives the impression of a personified psychedelic reverie. Where it’s deficient in narrative depth, it’s abundant in technicality.

The color grade and 70s-esque grain call for nostalgic yearning. I particularly enjoyed the uncertainty the film provided by means of coalescing epochal references. I found myself questioning the era

in which the film is set. Is it the 2000s? No, they have smartphones. Wait, now we’re in a parallel universe. Is it a modernized interpretation of the 70s? Edebiri’s Molly hits a juul, guess not.

All things considered, “The Sweet East” is an acquired taste. Nonetheless, I’d encourage everyone to give it a watch and decide for themselves.

“The Sweet East” is playing in select theaters.

"eternal sunshine": Ariana Grande turns heartbreak into gold with her most personal album yet

By Frankie Esteves

fmesteves@my.loyno.edu

Ariana Grande is no stranger to the spotlight, but over time, she’s gotten good at playing it. Unlike the average person, Grande has experienced her fair share of personal traumas under the scrutiny of the public eye. From the tragic terrorist attack during her 2017 Manchester concert to the heartbreaking loss of her ex-boyfriend, rapper Mac Miller, along with navigating through a failed engagement and marriage, Grande has continuously faced public scrutiny throughout her career.

Whether concerning her appearance, relationships, or career, Grande has consistently been the subject of intense scrutiny on social media. Recently, following her divorce from realtor Dalton Gomez and the revelation of her new relationship with Wicked co-star Ethan Slater, Grande found herself labeled as a “homewrecker” by the press.

The brilliance of Ariana Grande’s fifth studio album, 2019’s “thank u, next,” lies in her honest response to the public discourse surrounding her at the time. The titular song and tracks like, “ghostin,” showcased Grande’s willingness to delve into personal experiences, even mentioning four of her ex-boyfriends by name. This raw honesty, combined with the album’s relatable charm, resonated deeply with fans, solidifying Grande’s status as a leading figure in pop music.

In a social media video capturing a meeting with her record label, Grande mentioned using the “thank u, next formula” for her latest record “eternal sunshine.” What sets both of these albums as her best records is their remarkable emotional depth and unfiltered honesty.

The album opens with a question: “How can I tell if I’m in the right relationship?” This serves as the

overarching theme of the record with Grande navigating her journey toward finding the answer. On tracks like “bye” and “don’t wanna break up again,” she delves into the universal struggle of being torn between wanting to stay in a toxic relationship or breaking free.

In the titular track, paying homage to the 2004 Jim Carrey movie, Grande expresses wanting to wipe her mind to erase the painful memories of her divorce.

In the haunting track “supernatural,” Grande delves into the overwhelming nature of new love, likening it to a form of possession.

In “true story” and “the boy is mine,” Grande showcases one of her many strengths, crafting seductive and captivating R&B melodies. Following the viral leak of the track “fantasize” last summer, Grande responded by releasing a reworked version for her fans. The new rendition undoubtedly surpasses the original, delivering an even more addictive listening experience.

In “imperfect for you” and “ordinary things,” Grande reaches a sense of resolution. She emphasizes the beauty of imperfection in all relationships. In the final seconds of “ordinary things,” her Nonna teaches her a valuable lesson by advising her to never end the day without sharing a goodnight kiss with her partner. This simple gesture solidifies Grande’s understanding of the true essence of love.

Overall, “eternal sunshine” stands out as one of Ariana Grande’s finest albums to date. Through raw honesty, emotional depth, and profound relatability, Grande delivered a compelling narrative that authentically portrays her story. This album is undeniably a masterpiece, deserving a perfect rating.

Courtesy of Utopia

Puzzle Answers on the Loyola Maroon App! Apple

ACROSS

1. It’s out longer due to Daylight Savings

4. To steal

7. “________ Queen” by ABBA

14. One in Spanish

15. Words before marriage

16. Solid water

17. Signing this prevents you from talking about it

18. “__ Bamba” by Sheck Wes

19. Meghan would call her brothers this in “Drake & Josh”

20. Cat noise

22. Polka-___

23. Youtubers always used to brag about their _-Wagons

24. Yes in Japanese

26. Light Yagami is the main character in Death

29. Rich person

31. April, May, June, etc.

33. Question word

35. “Self Care” by ___ Miller

36. Text font now popularized through recent meme formats

38. Anyone who does the crossword are in their “Hot & smart ___”

39. Original gangster, abbr.

40. First person to get one billion loops on Vine was ____ Pons

41. In my humble opinion, abbr.

43. __- Address: code to express any location of the world

44. Jewelry brand known for rings

46. Chicago gangster __ Capone

47. Opposite of you

48. Restaurant ___ Friday’s

49. “It __ what it __”

50. Flat footed people do not have this

52. Video game ___-craft

54. California Congressman __ Khanna

55. “Old Town Road” by Lil ___ X

57. Be ominously close

59. Second in shorthand

60. Group Key Management Control, abbr.

62. Pointed part of a fork

63. Spanish painter known for “Saturn Devouring His Son”

64. Keen and spirited Messenian prince

66. Create yourself a ___ on the Wii

67. Mr. and ___

69. The kissing disease

71. Gambling, drinking, adultery, etc.

73. Largest international organization

75. Familial adenomatous polyposis, abbr.

78. ___ Appetit!

79. Crêpes _ __ cart

80. 2015 trend of putting your face in your inner elbow

81. Happens 14 days before your menstrual cycle

83. “Ready or ___” by Bridgit Mendler

84. Hank Schrader is apart of this organization

DOWN

1. Dim ___

2. Card game involving four colors and draw fours

3. Opposite of yes

4. Developer of League of Legends ____ Games

5. French pope during the First Crusade

6. Comedian known for his USO tours in Vietnam

7. Ice bear voice actor in We Bare Bears

8. Highest card

9. “___ Lights” by Demi Lovato

10. Carbon on the periodic table

11. Opposite of out

12. State above South Dakota

13. About to puke

19. Hairstyle worn by Karens

21. ___ cafe: a Tulane dupe of Bird n Brine

23. Alternative loyola people wear ___ Martins

25. I wouldn’t have it ___ other way

27. “___ end is near!!!”

28. High in caffeine tea flavor

29. Loyola has a strict “No _______” policy

30. Japanese city that was bombed in WWII

31. Paul Blart’s occupation

32. The only bird that can fly backwards is the _____bird

34. Often in boba teas

36. “Holy mother of _____!”

37. Comedian ____ Wang

42. Similar shape to zero

45. A, E, I, O, U, and sometimes _

51. Teenagers act up due to these increasing

52. Growing families often purchase this type of automobile

53. _! News

56. Surface-mount device, abbr.

58. Me in French

59. Sza album

61. Jim’s love interest in The Office

63. Greek, abbr.

65. Japanese noodle

67. Medical College Admission Test, abbr.

68. Aliens come from these

70. “I’m ___ Okay (I Promise)” by My Chemical Romance

72. International Labor Organization, abbr.

73. Dubai is in this country

74. Stephen Curry works for this organization

76. Film majors are knowledgeable about __ technology

77. __ pu platters is a tray of American Chinese food

80. US bra size __ is equivalent to UK bra size E

82. Lesbian tv show “The _ Word”

Crosswords and Maroon Libs by: Max Schweikarth & Kira Phillips

Grace Knight/The Maroon

Challenges persist in mobilizing young voters

By Ecoi Lewis gaknight@my.loyno.edu

College students and people in their late teens to early 20s are a major demographic in the U.S., but they have the lowest voting turnout.

“The process of mobilizing young voters is a real challenge because historically they turn out to vote in lower numbers than older voters,” Sean Cain, associate professor of political science at Loyola, said.

The 2020 presidential election saw 50% of young people voting. That is an 11% increase from the 2016 election. For the 2022 midterm election, only 27% of people ages 18-29 voted. The highest percentage was for the

Loyola to host second Labor Spring

By Chiara Faircloth clfaircl@my.loyno.edu

The department of sociology will host its second annual Labor Spring event, which aims to give attendees a general introduction to the foundations and objectives of labor unions.

The national event was founded in 2009 by the Kalmanovitz Initiative for Labor and the Working Poor at Georgetown University.

Cody Melcher, professor of sociology, said “Georgetown reached out to me personally and asked if I wanted to do this for New Orleans.”

Loyola’s Labor Spring event is sponsored by the university and several other organizations, including the University of New Orleans Justice Studies and the Jesuit Social Research Institute.

Melcher arranged the first Labor Spring at Loyola in 2023 and is now continuing to organize and manage the La-

bor Spring for 2024.

At last year’s event, Melcher explained how misconceptions and lack of information about labor unions are common in the south.

“I think one of the other major misconceptions in the south is that labor unions are illegal somehow – very much so not true,” he said.

The goal of the Labor Spring was and is to address these issues, inform the public, and raise awareness.

There will be a number of representatives present from local labor unions who will share both their struggles and their goals and discuss how Loyola students and faculty can support them. Additionally, the achievements of unions that have taken place within the year will be acknowledged and celebrated.

Sahara Jama, sociology senior and Melcher’s research assistant, has helped to promote the event across campus and arrange for certain guest speakers from

unions to attend.

“What most people know about it is either not true…or they just don’t know anything at all,” she said.

Jama said the event is mainly for students to hear from actual union members in many different work fields to learn about what it’s like to be in a union.

After having learned about labor unions from Melcher, Jama said it's completely changed her perspective and the way she interacts within her own jobs.

“[The Labor Spring] is really important to me, and also, it's kind of like a symbol of a change in culture around unions and getting back power as a worker and not just being like a tool to the capitalist society,” Jama said. “It’s kind of empowering to know that you have power in your workplace, even if you don’t realize it.”

Eloise Pickering contributed to this story.

Resistance erupts at Tulane University protest for Palestine

By Eloise Pickering ewpicker@my.loyno.edu

2008 election at 66%, according to Our World in Data organization.

“State legislators are becoming more active in trying to make policy decisions that are consequential for their communities, distinct from what the national government does. So we've seen a lot of policymaking at the state and local levels in many cities, counties, or Louisiana parishes that are quite consequential for young people, particularly concerning education policy. These types of policies that affect younger voters, are a consequence of elections in which younger voters are even less likely to participate,” Cain said.

Following a dispute between a student and professor at Tulane University and the subsequent arrest of an advocate supporting the student last week, members of Tulane’s chapter of Students for a Democratic Society alongside local activist organizations are joining together to challenge sanctions against protesting.

On March 13, Rory Macdonald, Tulane student and member of the Tulane chapter of SDS, was in an altercation with Tulane professor Walter Isaacson at a New Orleans Entrepreneur Week Panel.

Macdonald was one of 17 individuals asked by New Orleans Stop Helping Israel’s Ports to speak out at the panel with the intent of peacefully interrupting the various oil companies presenting.

Before the incident, Macdonald had seen Isaacson around campus and recognized him before standing up to speak, according to Macdonald.

“I began to say something that I had thought about a lot, specifically talking to the representative of Louisiana State

University. LSU and Tulane are both involved in the US-Israel Energy Center, which is providing research and taking grant money for these universities from the government to provide research to help Israel steal fossil fuel resources from Palestine,” they said. “As soon as I began speaking, he stood up and came over to me very aggressively.”

Macdonald expressed confusion over their treatment from the Tulane professor, as they said the demonstrators prior had been asked to leave politely or left on their own after saying their piece, according to Macdonald. They were the eighth person to speak during the panel.

“It was like being latched on to and so I wasn't really sure how to respond. I started backing out of the room as much as I could while being sort of grabbed and also trying to keep speaking. He started screaming at me and cursing like, ‘Get the f--- out of here,’ things like that.” Macdonald said, describing their experience. “I was just shocked because no one had been handled that way.”

Despite The Maroon reaching out to Isaacson repeatedly over the past week, he has not responded.

Micheal Strecker, assistant vice president for news and media relations at Tulane, in a statement regarding the altercation said, “We were notified of an incident that occurred off campus [Wednesday] involving a professor and a student at New Orleans Entrepreneur Week. Our practice is to review all concern reports that are brought to our attention by students, assign a case manager to students as needed and provide them with appropriate resources and support. Federal law prohibits us from commenting on the particulars of a student’s concern report and it is not our policy to comment on personnel matters.”

Tensions within the Tulane community continued to heighten as the week progressed to a protest that occurred on Saturday, March 16 during the New Orleans Book Festival, which is held on Tulane’s campus.

Tulane’s SDS, as well as New Orleans for Community Oversight of Police organized a demonstration to protest Isaacson and Tulane’s support of him, as well as Tulane’s support of Israel, according to Macdonald.

Dave Cash from the United Teachers New Orleans speaks to attendees at first annual Labor Spring event on April 21, 2023. Loyola’s sociology department is preparing for its second Labor Spring on March 21, 2024. Maleigh Crespo/The Maroon

“Will you accept this rose?”

"The Bachelor" season 28 captivates college students

By Sophia Maxim svmaxim@my.loyno.edu

Students cheered and gasped in reaction to reality TV drama at The Boot on Monday. The ongoing season of “The Bachelor” has captured the interest of Loyola and Tulane students with its unique connection to New Orleans and heightened social media engagement. The show has been a popular topic on campus, according to Loyola music industry senior Maddy Kelly. The cast of women competing for love have gained the admiration of viewers, they said.

“I think that each of the women has such a distinct personality this season,” Kelly said. “The emphasis is really on how awesome these women are and how they’ve grown into personas of their own."

In particular, Kelsey Anderson, a resident of New Orleans and one of the two finalists, has emerged as a local favorite among college students, Loyola nursing sophomore Emma Dycus said. Filming came to the city when Bachelor Joey Graziadei visited Kelsey and toured the French Quarter and City Park – where they enjoyed beignets and a brass band.

“She’s been my favorite since the beginning,” Kelly said. “It definitely was really cool to see during hometowns that she made it this far and seeing the two of them in New Orleans, at City Park, all these places that us down here know really well.”

Kelsey made an appearance on Feb. 19 at one of the weekly “Bachelor” view-

ing events at The Boot, an Uptown college bar.

“I’m actually so upset I wasn’t there,” Kelly said. “I think about it every day. When I found out, I was devastated but happy for the people that did get to meet her.”

The Boot has been a hub for excitement surrounding the show, Kelly said.

“I think that [The Boot] has definitely drawn a more social aspect to it,” they said. “I've heard people talking in class like, ‘Oh, are you going to The Boot tonight for Bachelor Monday?’”

The finalist was also spotted at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 16 and gave what some fans interpreted as nonverbal hints to the outcome of the season, Kelly said.

“Somebody I know met her at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade,” they said. “Everyone said that she’s really nice. Some girls were saying,‘Oh my God, like you totally won,’ and everyone’s saying she was laughing and smiling really big. I mean, she didn’t say anything, but…”

Kelly said a sense of community and personal connection has formed from the show.

“It feels like we’re almost a part of something bigger,” they said. “It’s cool to think that if she does win, like does that mean that they’re gonna live here? We’re almost a part of their little community and know something that people don’t, even though we totally know nothing.”

Dycus is hopeful that Kelsey will be revealed as Joey’s fiancée, bringing the

possibility of more New Orleans appearances as a couple.

“It would be really cool to just see them,” she said.

The Bachelor phenomenon has spread beyond live television with social media discussion. Dycus and Kelly said they started watching the show after seeing viral TikTok videos, like many other viewers this season.

“I definitely feel like, more than any other season, I've noticed it has been on social media a ton,” Kelly said.

This season has caught the attention of viewers outside of the regular audience, according to Kelly.

gained the praise of college-aged fans for her bold personality and relatability, Kelly said. Maria had never brought home a boyfriend to meet her family until Joey.

“It feels like we’re almost a part of something bigger. We’re almost a part of their little community and know something that people don’t, even though we totally know nothing.”

“It was all new to her, and I feel like that's something that we haven't really seen before – someone who's serious but is still new to dating,” they said “That's definitely relatable for our age, where it feels like the dating scene, especially in New Orleans, is kind of just desolate and really feels strange, so I think seeing that side of Maria has really resonated with me and a lot of other people.”

— Maddy Kelly Music industry senior

“Even my friends who don't watch it, they will be telling me like ‘Oh my God. What happened to Maria like, what's going on?’” Kelly said.

The show aired its second-to-last episode on Monday. Now, viewers are waiting for the final episode to reveal the Bachelor’s fiancée.

Between finalists Daisy Kent and Kelsey Anderson, Dycus said she has “no clue” who’s going to win the show.

“Maria was my favorite, but she’s gone,” Dycus said. “I’ll watch [another season] if she’s the Bachelorette.”

Contestant Maria Georgas has

Despite these aspects of relatability, some fans question the unconventional premise of the show.

“It’s a weird concept, but if people wanna go on it, I guess that’s them,” Dycus said.

Kelly believes the absurdity of the reality TV show is part of the charm.

“I love reality T.V., and I think it's ridiculous, but that's why people love it,” they said. “The premise is crazy, and I could never do that, like ever. I'm too jealous for that. There's a strange part of it where it's like you can look away, and that's why it's so successful, I'd say.”

A crowd of Tulane and Loyola students at The Boot react with enthusiasm to Kelsey receiving the last rose and becoming a Bachelor finalist. Sophia Maxim/The Maroon

By Sophia Maxim svmaxim@my.loyno.edu

“Crawfish in the Quad” draws crowd despite weather alert

Seniors Augie Lodholz (left) and Stephanie Oblena (far right) eat crawfish on the residential lawn on March 15, 2024. Sophia Maxim/The Maroon

Freshman Isa Zabaleta eats crawfish with friends on March 15, 2024.

Sophia Maxim/The Maroon

Freshman Sasha Grant smiles with her crawfish tray and crawfish plushie on March 15, 2024. Sophia Maxim/The Maroon

Kalif Cooper grills burgers on Calhoun St. next to Francis Hall on March 15, 2024.

Sophia Maxim/The Maroon

Despite a severe thunderstorm warning earlier in the day, Loyola's annual "Crawfish in the Quad" drew students to the residential quad for southern food, music, and bouncy castles.

Greer Jines/The Maroon

Senior Spotlight: Stephen Still sets records

By Matthew Richards mlricha2@my.loyno.edu

Stephen Still has left his name all over Loyola baseball’s record books. e senior ace of Loyola’s pitching rotation and Baton Rouge native is one win away from breaking the all-time wins record and already has the all-time strikeout record and the best career ERA in program history (2.80). He also stands rst and second on the list for best single-season strikeouts.

Still’s path to joining the Wolf Pack was one that almost didn’t happen.

“I knew that I wanted to stay in-state for college, but Loyola wasn’t really on my radar at rst,” he said. “Coach [Jeremy] Kennedy and the old assistant Coach [Steven] Bruce recruited me out of a local showcase and they got me to come take a campus visit, and I fell in love with it. When I sat down to make my decision, I ultimately felt like this was the place I was being called to go, so I committed.”

the line and Coach Kennedy put the ball in my hand, so that was a big moment for me,” Still said. “I think they had runners on base in pretty much every inning, but Coach Kennedy kept telling me to just take every inning one pitch at a time and focus on the task at hand, and it was really the rst time I felt like I wasn’t in my own head and that’s really when it all started to click for me.”

And his strong performance in that game was not lost on his teammates.

SSAC First Team All-Conference nod.

“He has been a huge piece to the elevation of the program as a whole,” Kennedy said. “He took on a big leadership role on the pitching sta , and has continued to grow by leaps and bounds year over year.”

Still would punctuate the season by breaking the Loyola career strikeout record in the SSAC semi nal game against William Carey University, pushing it to 254.

Final Scores

Men's Baseball vs. Dillard University, March 19 W 7-0

vs. Talladega College

L 4-5

vs. Georgia Gwinnett

L 1-18, W 10-8

Women's Basketball vs. Southeastern Fire, March 15 W 84-78

vs. Georgetown College W 79-74

Men's Tennis vs. SCAD Savannah, March 19 W 4-0

Upcoming Games

Baseball

March 22 @ Stillman College @ 12 p.m.

Women's Basketball

March 21 @ Sioux City, Iowa NAIA National Championship @ 8 p.m.

Men and Women's Track and Field

March 23 @ Belhaven Invitational

Beach Volleyball

March 22 @ Weber Invitational@ 9 a.m.

Men and Women's Tennis

March 22 @ SSAC Tennis

Round up vs. Blue Mountain @ 10 a.m.

Still grew up around baseball and credits his family as his inspiration for playing the game.

Still played well during his freshman season, despite having early doubts about how he would perform at the

“My mom, dad, and my brother are all big baseball fans,” Still said. “And my dad was a coach for a while too. We played football too, but baseball was always the main sport in our family.” pretty

“I came in my freshman year super nervous about competing at this level,” said Still. “But I got lucky and was able to earn my rst start pretty early in the season. My freshman season was a little bit of a rollercoaster with COVID-19 and everything, and I wasn’t really taking my game as seriously as I should have and reach the level

game as seriously been to try I wanted to be at rst.”

He closed his freshman year with some highlight performances, including a one-hit, 10-strikeout performance over seven innings against Stillman College and a nine-strikeout, 123-pitch performance in the nal game of Loyola’s season against Oklahoma City University at the NAIA regionals.

“We had the chance to host the regional for the rst time in program history, and had lost the rst game, so our season was on

“ is was when I realized Stephen was just di erent,” said out elder Tucker Ganley. “He competed toe to toe with one of the best teams in the NAIA. He gave it everything and held the OCU team to no runs through 7 innings. We ended up losing the game in extra innings, but his outing will always stick out to me. Not just how good he was that day, but about how badly he wanted us to win.”

Still would follow up that gritty performance with a stellar sophomore season, earning rst-team All-Southern States Athletic Conference honors, posting a 7-2 win-loss record, and setting a new single-season record with 95 strikeouts, with a career-high 12 of them coming in one game, a 14-5 win against the University of Mobile in the SSAC Tournament.

“He has had several big moments,” Kennedy said. “He pitched extremely well in the regional tournament that we hosted in '21, and again in '22 at the regional against LSU Shreveport. He has given us a stable, true #1 for our rotation.”

His junior season saw even more consistency and improvement from Still, as he posted an 8-3 record, tossed a record 97 strikeouts, and earned another

“It was a bit of a relief, honestly, to break that record,” Still said. “I’m glad I was able to do it, and you know that it's something I’ll be able to look back on, but I broke it in like the rst inning of that game, so I had to move on pretty quickly.”

And as the Wolf Pack started well this season, winning their rst ten games of the year, so did Still, with a 4-0 record, with an ERA of 3.51 and 32 strikeouts in his rst ve starts.

“Having a guy like Stephen as a teammate for the past four years is something every baseball player dreams of,” out elder Kason Cullins said. “When he gets on the mound, you know you have a chance to win. Being able to experience that over the past four years has been a blessing.”

But the records aren’t really on Still’s mind, even as he approaches arguably the biggest one yet.

“As I got closer to the strikeout record, it was on my mind a little more than I wanted it to be sometimes,” Still said. “So I just kind of want to help to give my team the best chance to win games this year. e records are nice, but they’re not my focus.”

Men's Basketball season ends in first round

By B. Welch bawelch@my.loyno.edu

After seven straight wins, the Loyola Men’s basketball team's season came to an end in the rst round of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics National Championship tournament. e team made quite the comeback going into the Southern States Athletic Conference Championship with a 1417 record and winning before going into nationals. e Wolf Pack won the SSAC championship in four games within four days, making history. e Wolf Pack played Freed-Hardmen in the NAIA rst round National Championship tournament game and lost 56-79.

Stephen Still displays sportsmanship with his teammates after a game. Courtesy of Loyola New Orleans Athletics

Stephen Still pitches a baseball during a Wolf Pack game. Courtesy of Loyola New Orleans Athletics

Women's basketball team advances to "Sweet Sixteen"

By Matthew Richards mlricha2@my.loyno.edu

College

Beach volleyball duo kickstarts conference

By Leonard Jackson III ljackson@my.loyno.edu

e Wolf Pack’s beach volleyball team is o to a great start with a stellar performance from returner Kiarelis Martinez and newcomer Isabella Rodrigue.

e duo took down the top 10 ranked Mobile Rams in a double-header at Coconut Beach in Kenner, Louisiana, nishing their conference record at 2-0. In their match against the Mobile Rams, sophomore Martinez, and freshman Rodrigue obtained a three-set victory over the Rams, scoring 21-17, 20-22, and 15-11. e duo was ecstatic about the win and are looking to continue to turn heads.

“It’s not usual for two defenders to play together, but we both have great ball control and we wanted to win,” Martinez said. “Our coach Robert Pitre and our team believed in us every second, which helped us a lot too. It was an interesting match with a lot of hustle and trust in our hard work during practices and preseason.”

“I believe Kia and I both knew we had to do whatever it took to get a win under our belt for that game,” Rodrigue said. “Both of us had great ball control and defense that day and I believe that really helped us to win the game.”

e Loyola women’s basketball team defeated the Georgetown College Tigers 79-74 to advance to their rst National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Sweet Sixteen since 2014.

kids fought really hard and we

“It’s really exciting to be able to cut your own nets down,” said head coach Kellie Kennedy. “You really don’t want to see somebody else do that in your own gym. Our kids fought really hard and we can’t wait to get to Iowa.”

e Wolf Pack (26-4) were led by a strong performance from freshman guard Caitlin Travis,

who led all scores with a career high 25 points and three rebounds.

“I just thank God really, for putting me in this position,” said Travis. “I’m just really thankful that we were able to win these games and get the chance to go to Iowa.

My teammates just found me in great spots and I just went o of that. I just trusted in them, trusted in our gameplan, trusted in our coaching sta , and we built o each other.”

After being down at the end of the rst quarter, and trading baskets for much of the second, the Wolf Pack took a 43-41 lead just under halfway through the third quarter with a jumper from graduate senior guard Taylor omas, and never trailed again for the rest of

Martinez and Rodrigue displayed skill and determination against the Mobile Rams. e duo's success serves as a testament to their hard work and commitment to excellence under the guidance of Pitre.

Loyola Fútbol Club

President: Hector N. Garcia

• Contact: hngarcia@my.loyno.edu

• Meeting times: Tuesdays in Res Quad/Fridays at Tulane Brown Field @ 5:30 p.m.

e Loyola Fútbol Club competes in the Southeastern Louisiana Adult Soccer Association league where they are currently undefeated. e club hopes to become an o cial National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics team. It was started by Hector Garcia and his twin brother Alejandro Garcia. e club continues to grow alongside of new coaches Hunter Darrouzet and Jacob DeRusha.

“ is victory means everything to me,” omas said. “ at’s all I can really say about it. It means everything to me and my teammates, this is my last go-round at this, and we’re just really excited that we’re not done yet!”

omas nished second on the team in scoring with 17 points and grabbed seven rebounds as well.

A strong second quarter performance from Loyola made all the di erence in this game as they outscored the Tigers 17-9 and held them to 3-14 shooting in the quarter

Travis. built o each other.” quarter, a 43-41 lead just under halfway through graduate the game. team moment, so we just stuck to the work won

“We’ve been preparing for this moment, so we just stuck to the work we’ve been putting in, and went out and won the game.” Travis said.

e Wolf Pack will play again ursday and now await the winner of

Loyola Sailing Club

President: Phillip Lopez

• Contact: pdlopez@my.loyno.edu

• Meeting times: Sunday @ 2:30 p.m. at the New Orleans Yacht Club

e Sailing Club is a recreational and competitive club sport at Loyola. ey provide the opportunity to learn the basics of sailing skills for regattas. Both students new to sailing and those with prior experience are welcome to join. e club meets at the New Orleans Yacht Club. e address is 403 N Roadway St. New Orleans, LA 70124.

Loyola Chess Club

President: Khue Huynh

• Contact: kahuynh@my.loyno.edu

• Meeting Times: Fridays @ 4 p.m. at Monroe Hall 313

e chess club consists of students getting together to enjoy the game of chess. Everyone is welcome to play, learn, watch matches, or maybe just hang out. Anyone can enter in their tournaments, follow them on HowlConnect for more information on upcoming tournaments.

second seeded Carroll College (Montana), who knocked them out of the tournament in 2021, and seventh seeded Oregon

And with more basketball on the way, the team is excited to see where the rest of the

seventh seeded Oregon Tech. season goes!

“Let’s go Pack!” omas said. “See you in Iowa,

Loyola o ers five club sports teams

Flawless Golden Wolves

President: Reagan Rogers

• Contacts: rdrogers@my.loyno. edu, ncalixte@my.loyno.edu

• Meeting times: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday @ 7-9 p.m., Saturdays @ 6 p.m. in the University Sports Complex

e Flawless Golden Wolves is an organization where students can express themselves through majorette dance. ey've performed at Loyola at many campus events. e team will host a dance workshop led by Southern University dancing dolls’ member Airielle Brooks on March 23 in the sports complex.

Kpop Dance Club

President: Tarica Paige

• Contact: tlpaige@my.loyno.edu

• Meeting time: Tuesdays @ 6:30 p.m. in CMM 106

Do you like Kpop and/or dance? You should join the Loyola Kpop Dance Club in their dance classes. ey meet every week to teach and learn dances performed by Kpop groups, and they alternate weekly between girl and boy groups. ey also do performances, but not everyone has to participate.

Caitlin Travis shoots a 3-pointer at the rst round game of the NAIA National Championship tournament against the Southeastern Fire on Friday, March 15, 2024. Sophia Renzi/

The Maroon

Rosemary Vanney, sophmore beach volleyball player serves up a ball. Courtesy of Brittany Cooper

Photos by Sophia Renzi/ The Maroon

RALLY AFTERMATH: Student shares Tulane frustrations

Continued from page 6

“I've felt immense support from the Palestinian community in New Orleans since I was attacked on Wednesday because they feel really strongly that what happened to me is not just about me being attacked as a student by a professor. It's also about the consistent repression of protesters by Tulane for standing in solidarity with the Palestinian community,” Macdonald said.

The rally, which began as peaceful, quickly escalated when chief organizer of New Orleans for Community Oversight of Police, Toni Jones, was arrested by a Tulane police officer.

In her role as chief organizer, Jones was tasked to be a guide during the demonstration, wearing a yellow vest and ensuring that protesters were obeying the rules and laws.

“We had a police liaison. The police had talked to us beforehand. We had our own section on public property where we were allowed to demonstrate,” Jones said. “There was no animosity between the police and demonstrators, and no one was addressing the Tulane police at all.”

According to Jones, this cordial dynamic between police and demonstrators remained until Macdonald came to the rally partway through. Then, Tulane police began to “target” Macdonald, Jones said.

“They basically weren't providing any reasoning but were just more and more aggressively targeting me specifically and trying to separate me from the other protesters,” Macdonald said.

Although the rally was taking place off Tulane campus, according to Jones, an officer approached Macdonald to detain them; this was after Macdonald was given a citation stating that they could not be on campus.

While questioning Tulane police regarding the heightened attention and desire to separate Macdonald, Jones was arrested.

She spent the following nine hours detained at the Orleans Parish jail before posting bail. Her arraignment took place Monday morning where she received charges of battery on an officer and obstruction of a lawful investigation.

Jones did not speak to the battery charge.

Strecker made the following statement: “TUPD officers and other law enforcement agencies were present at Saturday’s demonstration in order to protect protestors, university community members, and campus visitors. The arrest at Saturday’s protest was made on a public sidewalk after the subject interfered in a police investigation and assaulted a police officer. The arrested individual is not a Tulane student.”

According to Macdonald, police officers backed off immediately following

Jones’ arrest and the rally continued.

“What I understand the interaction to be was pure political repression,” Jones said. “Tulane Police Department has a reputation for repressing Black student activists.”

The Maroon reached out to Tulane Police repeatedly over the past week, but they did not respond.

Jones and Macdonald have formed a defense committee, which became official the morning of Jones’ arraignment.

The committee demands first and foremost that all charges against Jones are dropped. They also call for Isaacson to be charged and removed from all his positions, as well as for Tulane to cut all their ties with Israel.

“Isaacson is not just a Tulane professor. He also sits on the board for Halliburton Lab,” Macdonald said. “He profits directly from things like the Israeli occupation of Palestine, which is what these fossil fuel companies do.”

Halliburton Lab is a sustainable energy company that was present at the New Orleans Entrepreneurship Week panel.

Macdonald further said that Tulane has been open about their financial support for Israel, and that they feel as though Tulane has been dishonest to their community by labeling themselves as an institution that encourages diversity, equity, and inclusion.

“Part of the action on Saturday was to basically disrupt Bookfest because

it's very important to Tulane, and because they refuse to hear the Palestinian community about the way that they're continuing to support the ongoing genocide,” Macdonald said. “I would really like for the Tulanian community to open their eyes to the Palestinian perspective.”

Strecker disputed the claim that Tulane is dishonest about its diversity, equity, and inclusion.

“Tulanians of all backgrounds – Muslim, Arab, Jewish, Christian and more – are supported in their cultural and religious identities. Bias, prejudice and discrimination are completely counter to our values. We hope to serve as a model in confronting the current national and global climate of intolerance and hate. Among many other efforts, we will host Anti-Islamophobia Week April 15-19, which will include expert panels on defining and stopping Islamophobia, films that explore Islamophobia and other activities focused on raising awareness of and combating Islamophobia,” Strecker said on behalf of Tulane University.

Both Jones and Macdonald call on the community to continue to show up. Macdonald especially encourages students, Loyola and Tulane alike, to join SDS.

“I want them to get involved in the fight,” Macdonald said.

GETTING INVOLVED: Student urges local participation

Continued from page 6

There is a level of disconnect between how legislation at the federal level affects citizens, but city and state politics affect day-to-day lives more, despite lower participation.

In his hometown of St. Louis, Missouri, political science junior, Sam Pickering, has begun attending his local city council meetings, and expressed the impor-

tance of participating in local politics.

“You're going to get a lot more out of it because your local government has a lot more say in your life than the federal government,” Pickering said. “Getting immersed in local politics by actually going to those meetings and having your voice heard is critical.”

College aged voters often feel discouraged in regards to participating in

national elections, as voting can feel futile at such a large level.

“The general election itself in November will be motivating. But it always starts in our political system, the United States with the presidential election, that gets the most media coverage, the most interest from voters, because they're most aware of that one,” Cain said.

The buzz surrounding presidential

elections tends to encourage voters, even in the younger demographics, but the effects of federal election excitement quickly wears away.

Cain attributes, to a certain extent, a lack of college-aged voter involvement to a lack of representation, as the vast majority of those in office are much older than them.

RAMADAN: Students reflect on Palestine crisis

Continued from page 3

Both Smith and Zeini expressed how Ramadan is different for them this year because of what Palestinian people are going through in Palestine.

Smith said, “I'm just grateful for literally like a bite of food that I have, because [people in Palestine] are fasting, and then they have nothing to break their fast with. They have no clean water. They have the most littlest bits of food, and it's horrifying.”

Zeini said, “I don't go a day without thinking about [Palestine] or actively engaging with it. Seeing everything that's coming out of there and what they're going through, they're kind of at the forefront of my mind.”

“We feel like we're screaming into an abyss when faculty and administration straight up denies it,” Smith said.

STAFF

Assistant Editors: Patrick Hamilton, Rodrigo Delgado Jr., Falyn Hardouin, Mabel RegaladoHernandez, Ruby Nieder, Chiara Faircloth, Sam Guillotte, Chris Maldonado, Janssen Van De Yacht

Comics Editors: Greer Jines, Grace Knight

Authors Abroad: Callie Honeycutt, Athena

Marks

Maroon Broadcast Producers: Francisco Esteves, Hannah Darcey, James Hufnagel, Christopher Nesbit, Matthew Richards, Leonard Jackson III, Mabel Regalado-Hernandez, Maria DiFelice, Grace Agostino, Sadie Meade, Ashlyn Bobb Collins, Cecilia Calderin

Digital Team: Addison Laird, Rin Andrews, Daniel Wong, Kennedy James, Lydia Hilt, Natalia

Silva

The Wolf: Dajah Saul, Taylor Falgout, Sophia Renzi

Staff Writers & Photographers: Ava Acharya, Shelby Perkins, Angel Martinez, Micaela Hood, Jacob L’Hommedieu, Guelan Zaour, Alana Thompson, Jordan Higgins, Myles McWilliams, Leonard Jackson III, Nadir Benslimane, Brice Gutter, Gabbee Bonura, Hector N. Garcia, Eve McFarland, Sydney Piglia, Aaron Covin, Liz Snow, Heidi Herrera, Ryan Talley

Adviser: Michael Giusti

CONTACT US

Main Office 504) 865-3535

Business Office (504) 865-3536

Adviser’s Office (504) 865-3295

Correspondence maroon@loyno.edu

Letters to the editor letter@loyno.edu

Advertising ads@loyno.edu

Website www.loyolamaroon.com

Twitter @loyola_maroon

Facebook The Maroon

Instagram @loyola_maroon

Our office is in the Communications/Music Complex, Room 328.

Send mail to: The Maroon, Loyola University, Campus Box 64, 6363 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans, LA 70118

The Maroon is published every Friday. Unless otherwise noted, all content is copyrighted by The Maroon. All rights reserved. First copy free to students, faculty and staff. Every additional copy is $1.00.

The Maroon is printed on 30 percent post-consumer recycled content.

Artifical intelligence is a bad friend

Dr. Sarah Allison Director of Composition sallison@loyno.edu

As Director of Composition, I get asked a lot about the possibility that students will use AI instead of doing course writing themselves–sometimes by faculty and, today, by an intrepid student editor at the Maroon.

My answer starts by pointing out that this is not a new problem: For a long time, students who chose not to do their own coursework mostly got out of doing papers by getting other people to write them.

What's different about AI?

AI is like a smart friend that specializes in telling you whatever you want to hear.

If the chatbot wants anything, it wants to help you, but–as anyone who has ever tried to explain to a chatbot why they want to return a weird shirt can attest–AI is only able to give you certain kinds of help.

And what you need "help" with at college, when you are learning something new, is developing your understanding of the material and connecting new skills or knowledge with what you knew before.

Think about the difference between having a friend write a paper for you and

having a friend help you write your own paper. By listening to what you say, your friend–especially if they are an English major–will ask you questions that can help you get to your ideas, making your paper much better–and also more your own.

In another sense, AI is like having a teacher that marks up all the grammatical errors in your paper without responding to your ideas–it wants to fix your commas, your citation style. Arizona State University is experimenting with AI as a tutoring tool.

From where I sit, the problem with that is that the chatbot does not care about the substance of what you say. Faculty do.

When I respond to student work, I am responding as an expert in the subject as well as someone with a history of teaching. I am interested in the evidence, and I'm even more interested in the way the student uses it. No two students read the text the same way. Writing a paper isn't only about "expressing" your ideas, but developing them. So reading student work lets me learn something new about the course material and what a student is getting out of it.

Most college papers ask you to draw evidence from coursework. In my class, that means not only the things we have read together but the discussions we have had: student papers should reflect what you learned from listening to your peers as well as from doing the reading on your own. Most important, it should build on what you--and only you--knew before you started the class. Integrating new perspectives from coursework

across disciplines is the part of your degree that you will take with you.

So, Maroon readers, my argument is that using AI to respond to readings or write papers cheats you out of the most transformative part of a Loyola degree: the hours that you spend engaging with

assigned material both in and out of class. This work not only lets you get more out of your courses, but empowers you to apply ideas from your classes to different contexts and to make funny jokes with your friends.

The time you put in on your coursework is your education. And that education will change what you are able to know and do long after you graduate. It will change you.

It's time for Taylor to take Swift action for the environment

Eloise Pickering Jornalism freshman ewpicker@my.loyno.edu

Taylor Swift's rise to fame has been mind-blowing, to say the least. I grew up listening to her music, so watching as she transforms from a small town country artist to a global superstar is astounding. While it’s a stretch to put the two of us in the same realm, I sometimes like to think that we’ve grown together.

From dancing in the kitchen to “Picture to Burn” as a toddler to crying to “Cardigan” after my first real heartbreak,

she was pivotal to not just my own growth but millions of others.

In my eyes, she is an icon. A symbol of unabashed femininity, power, and honesty. One of the biggest public figures of modern day, as her fanbase is extensive with hundreds of thousands of people looking up to her as a role model.

Modern day, however, is riddled with turmoil and societal issues. One of the most prominent matters, in my eyes, being climate change.

Swift has taken a stance on a variety of global and national affairs with the climate crisis being one of them. Despite her stance, she lacks a lot of vital practices to alter her immense carbon footprint.

The first leg of the “The Eras Tour” was extensive with 152 shows across five continents. Swift sang her heart out night after night, traveling from city to city to

an estimated total crowd of nearly 4.5 million people, according to USA Today.

Swift traveled via private jet, one of the worst modes of transportation. It is understandable that she must travel large distances in a very timely manner; however, I think we can all agree that her 28 mile flight was unnecessary.

In 2022, Swift was reported to have the highest private jet carbon emissions at 8,293.54 tons, according to The Yard, a UK based marketing agency.

To put this number into perspective, one ton of carbon dioxide is about equivalent to the weight of 161,290 liter bottles of soda, according to EMS mastery.

This statistic has proven to be wildly controversial following a 2023 report conducted by MyClimate, which found that the pop star didn’t even rank in the top 30 celebrities with the highest carbon emissions related directly to private jet travel.

In refute, it is vital to note the nature of the stats. The Yard collected their data through ADS-B Exchange, the world leading source in openly accessible flight data. MyClimate, on the other hand, collected their data strictly through the celebrities' social media.

"We only use data that celebrities themselves publish,” myclimate’s Head of Marketing Kai Landwehr said. Swift doesn’t have a terribly large/frequent social media presence, so this naturally skews the rankings.

Her carbon footprint doesn’t end with air travel. According to Forbes, Swift brought in a whopping $200 million in merchandise sales alone throughout her tour – none of her items for sale are eco-friendly. In fact, her infamous cardi-

gans are made of 55% polyester material and 45% acrylic fabric, some of the worst clothing fabrics for the environment as they are plastic based and non-biodegradable.

It’s important to acknowledge that Swift does do great things for society, as well as the environment. According to her publicist, Swift donated double the amount of money that it would take to offset her carbon emissions from “The Eras Tour” to various organizations that plant trees or reduce their emissions to balance out the total output.

Furthermore, Swift has used eco-friendly confetti at some of her shows, according to Rainbow Confetti, the company who supplied the materials for a couple of concerts.

This is a step in the right direction, but is it enough?

When comparing her to other artists, such as Billie Eilish, it isn’t. Eilish has released lines of merchandise that are sustainable and doesn’t fly private. The musician also set up eco-villages, which are spaces where fans could fill their water bottles for free, register to vote, and learn about environmental nonprofits, with an emphasis on BIPOCand women-led organizations throughout her “Happier Than Ever” world tour in 2022.

Finances and money are a large, if not the largest, obstacle to touring in a more eco-friendly nature.

Comparatively, however, Swift’s net worth is over 15 times greater than Eilish, who has about $50 million in financial assets.

In October of 2023, Swift was officially given billionaire status after the release

of the re-recording of her nine-year-old album "1989," according to Bloomberg News, and her net worth is now about $1.1 billion.

Swift has accomplished great things. On top of being a wildly successful musician, she has donated millions of dollars to various charities and is outspoken about her political beliefs.

But with the world watching her, it’s time she makes a concrete stance against climate change and follows through.

Her actions will speak louder than her words and implementing more environmentally conscious practices, like Eilish does, could have a profound impact on her ever-expanding fanbase.

Swift is a great public figure, one that I, myself, have looked to for a proper example of how to be a woman in today’s convoluted society.

But as I have grown, the natural world and its rapidly declining health has become such a significant issue that we can see the effects every day.

When I look to public figures and celebrities, both in guidance and to support, it is discouraging to see the ones who are valued the most, disregard such a vital issue in modern society.

Whether or not you consider yourself a “Swiftie,” or if you just hold admiration for her like I do, it is important to call on Swift and air public opinions about her lack of sustainability.

With all eyes on her, Swift needs to set the example of environmental conservation, so little girls dancing in their own kitchens, right now, know what to fight for.

Taylor Falgout / The Maroon

Ruth Brown /The Maroon

Students need to embrace diversity and interfaith knowledge

With Lent and Ramadan upon us, it is our duty as students to be culturally aware and supportive of everyone.

Engaging with other cultures and respecting other religions is essential within our Jesuit institution and as people to broaden our experience.

Data from the 2021-2022 academic year recorded 14% of Loyola students as non-Christian, 24% unknown, and 8% other, which shows the varying religious backgrounds of our student body, further exemplifying the importance of o ering inclusive and safe spaces for all students.

Given the diverse demographics, it's clear that fostering interfaith understanding is essential for creating a truly inclusive community. As students at a culturally diverse institution in the heart of New Orleans, we have a unique opportunity to engage with peers from diverse religious and cultural backgrounds and learn from their perspectives. Doing so enriches our educational experience and contributes to a more inclusive campus environment.

As a Jesuit institution, Loyola University is rooted in principles of social justice, compassion, and solidarity. Embracing the diversity of religious

beliefs within our community aligns with these core values and strengthens our collective commitment to building a more just and equitable society.

Loyola requires students to take two religion courses. Students need to embrace these courses as an opportunity to learn more about other religions.

Loyola has extensive interfaith resources that we need to use to not only support our peers but also educate ourselves.

is sentiment is also extended to faculty. Loyola needs to urge our professors to continue fostering an environment of support and understanding by accommodating students' religious practices and ensuring that no student feels marginalized due to their beliefs.

Students need to hold Loyola accountable to its commitment to inclusivity by advocating for continued support for students with di ering religions and by actively participating in initiatives that promote a campus culture where everyone feels valued and respected.

Loyola also has various worship spaces across campus, including the Manresa Den located on the rst oor of Bobet Hall and Magis Lounge,

located in the Danna Center basement available for small prayer gatherings and religious services. But, it doesn’t stop there. Student-led religious clubs and organizations, such as BCM Christian Community, Jewish Student Community, and Muslim Student Association, enhance the student experience both on and o campus.

Online students can nd a multi-faith calendar and cultural videos on di erent religious holidays.

Furthermore, Loyola’s interfaith resources extend beyond campus boundaries.

With access to these resources, students should strive to foster an inclusive community. Regardless of your religion or cultural background, we must accept and support all students and educate ourselves to broaden our educational experience.

As members of the Loyola community, it's not enough to merely acknowledge our diverse religious landscape; we must actively embrace and celebrate it. Let us utilize the new chapel as a symbol of our commitment to interfaith understanding where students of all backgrounds can nd solace and connection.

Quote of the week

"It feels more like 'oh my god,' we're all celebrating together or choosing to come here and do this together."

- Zaynab Zeini, computer science senior on Ramadan

HOWL

to the new Topo Chico seltzers at the Market

GROWL to cold water in

Hall

HOWL to NOLA pot rats

GROWL to slow walkers

HOWL to all female

GROWL to busy weekends

HOWL to

GROWL to

sta and/or faculty members of Loyola.

Letters are subject to editing for length, grammar and style. Please limit submissions to 400 words. Submissions are due no later than 4 p.m. the Sunday before publication. Please send all submissions —

The Maroon, 6363 St. Charles Ave., Box 64, New Orleans, LA 70118. Email us your letters — letter@ loyno.edu.

Submissions may also be made online at www.loyolamaroon.com.

Ruth Brown / The Maroon