SPECIAL ISSUE + REGULAR ISSUE 12 THE QUADRANGLE SPRING 2024

the Quadrangle

Volume CIX, Issue 12

APRIL 30, 2024

The Editorial Board

Grace Cardinal Editor-in-Chief

Angelina Persaud Managing Editor

Brooke DellaRocco News Editor

Mack Olmsted Features Editor

Angelina Perez Arts & Entertainment Editor

Isaiah Rosario Sports Editor

Maizy Swift Ivy Jaep Production Editors

Mary Haley Social Media Editor

Elizabeth Kalaj Web Editor

Angelina Perez Engagment Editor

Angelina Persaud Asst. News Editor

Mary Haley Asst. Features Editor

Maizy Swift

Jill Tuthill Asst. Arts & Entertainment Editors

Andrew Mannion Emmanouel Sofillas Asst. Sports Editors

Barbara Vasquez Asst. Production Editor

Nicholas Gilewicz Faculty Advisor

About The Quadrangle

A tradition since 1924, The Quadrangle is a news organization run by the students of Manhattan College. We strive to cover news around campus and the greater community, publishing weekly in print and daily online. Our goal is always accuracy, relevancy and professionalism.

The opinions expressed in The Quadrangle are those of the individual writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editorial Board, the College or the student body.

Join The Quadrangle

The Quadrangle’s staff holds weekly open meetings on Tuesdays at 4 p.m. in Kelly Commons Room 412. All are welcome to come and join the club.

with The Quadrangle

LETTER from the EDITOR

Dear Readers,

Hello, and welcome to the Alumni Issue! We’re so happy you’re here. As I mentioned last week, we had a little surprise for you all, and this is it! Not only is this a very special special issue (excuse the pun) because we got to speak to so many of the people who have left legacies at Manhattan College, The Quadrangle and beyond, but it also marks the first time in the spring semester that we’re in print! Thanks to your generous donations, we were able to make sure our seniors and the rest of our staff got one last issue in hand to commemorate their time here, and the many accomplishments we’ve made. I thank you, and I know they do too, for helping us make this happen.

This issue absolutely would not have come together without the support of so many. While we’re used to tracking down students and faculty who are on campus for interviews, it is a completely different beast to manage that with sources who live all over the world. I appreciate every single one of you who we reached out to for your quick and willing responses, and for taking the time out of your hectic schedules to be a part of our last issue. We are so grateful you did.

This special issue has to be one of our most fascinating yet. Not only does it mark our lovely seniors’ transition into becoming alumni of The Quadrangle and of MC themselves, but we were able to connect with so many people who left such a major footprint on this campus. In news, we talk about an alumnus working for NASA trying to make it to places literally out of this world. In features, we talked with alumni of The Quad about some of their coolest experiences since graduating (and they are all VERY cool). In A&E, we put together a JasperJams using alumni responses from an Instagram poll that we took earlier in the week- stream it on our Spotify! Lastly, we caught up with alumni who both work in the sports industry as staff and who exist in the industry as professional athletes. Be sure to check it all out, and make sure to read the rest of our content from our regular issue 12 this week.

Until next time,

Grace Cardinal

Editor-in-Chief

Alex Cohen Announced as the Graduate Commencement Keynote Speaker

Adrianne Hutto Senior Writer

Alex Cohen is set to deliver the keynote address during the Manhattan College Graduate Commencement ceremony on May 17, 2024. At this time she will also receive a Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa. Cohen was a commuter student during her time at Manhattan College studying communication.

Presently, Cohen is the president of the Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation which she co-founded with her husband, Steven Cohen. Cohen is a born and raised New Yorker, coming from Harlem, just a train ride away from the MC campus. Their foundation is extremely prominent in the New York area, focusing on healthcare, education and the arts. Cohen’s philanthropic work has earned her recognition as one of the 50 Most Powerful Women in U.S. Philanthropy by

Inside Philanthropy. In 2020, Cohen and her husband purchased the New York Mets and in tandem created the Amazin’ Mets Foundation according to Inside Philanthropy.

“As the philanthropic arm of the New York Mets, the Amazin’ Mets Foundation aims to serve our community and inspire others to make a lasting impact, on and off the field,” according to the Amazin’ Mets Foundation’s website. Since being founded, the foundation has funded over 160 organizations with over $10.2 million in grants within its community.

The Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation has supported Manhattan College with grants funding initiatives including the Manhattan College Baseball Big Brother Program, Summer Literacy Institute, and the Veterans Success Program. The Cohen Scholars Program grants five commuter students coming from under-resourced areas who are majoring in science, technology, engineering, or math with a nearly full schol-

arship.

Ethan Perez became a recipient of the scholarship in 2022, making him one of the first students to be awarded this grant. “I extend my heartfelt appreciation to each of you [Ms. Cohen] for enabling me to pursue my passion for computer science,” Perez said. “This generous support not only aids my personal aspirations but also signifies a significant milestone, particularly as a member of the Hispanic community.”

“I’m so excited to return to Manhattan College to speak to the graduating class of 2024,” Cohen said in an article posted on manhattan.edu. “I’m also humbled and grateful to receive this honorary degree. My time at Manhattan College was transformative for me, and I will never forget the people there who made a difference in my life.”

On April 18, Milo Riverso, president of Manhattan College announced the news to the school. “It is a distinct honor and privilege to confer this

honorary degree upon Alex,” Riverso said in the online article. “Her tremendous support for the College, particularly for our students coming from under-resourced communities, is typical of her spirit of generosity and her recognition of the importance of the solid educational experience that Manhattan College offers all

its graduate and undergraduate students.”

As an embodiment of the Lasallian spirit, Cohen serves as an inspiration to the 2024 graduate class. Her keynote address is a testament to the achievements of Manhattan College students and reflects a bright future for graduates.

COURTESY

Matthew Dunne, ‘12 & ‘13: From Manhattan To NASA, Spreading a Legacy to the Stars

Matthew Schule Staff Writer

“You know, I feel like a lot of my success, almost all of it, has been built on the great time I had at Manhattan,” Matthew Dunne ‘12,’13, a lead flight testing engineer at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, said.

From Houston, Dunne explained the journey of his career. He told The Quadrangle that he needed to wake up early the next morning in order to talk to some individuals who are astronauts working aboard the International Space Station, floating somewhere above England.

Dunne has been working at NASA for nearly 10 years now, but before he set his eyes on those satellites in the sky, his first inspiration came from the silver screen. As a kid, Dunne remembered seeing the 1995

movie Apollo 13.

“The movie really stuck out to me, not just because it was a true story, but because it also really digs into what the engineers and the team are doing on the ground,” Dunne said. “It showed that when things don’t go to plan, you need all hands on deck.”

The value of teamwork is something Dunne began to admire early in his career, and his time at Manhattan College helped him work towards making what he cared about a part of his everyday life.

“Teamwork is something that I really value, and the close-knit community at Manhattan [College] really fostered the values I have today,” Dunne said.

Dunne explained that after getting his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, it was a “seamless transition” into getting his master’s degree in science thanks to a five-year

graduate program Manhattan College offered him towards the end of his undergrad.

In an email from alumnus Thomas Wigand, a friend of Dunne, he talked about Dunne’s success at such an infamous company.

“Most people cannot say they know someone that works for NASA,” Wigand wrote. “Luckily I can. I met Matt sophomore year through mutual friends, which led to us being roommates junior year.”

In his junior year at MC, Dunne took an internship at Skanska Construction Company, and helped do interface maintenance on a tunnel-boring machine nearly 100 feet underneath the city streets and skyscrapers of New York City. At the time, the machine was digging away a massive hole, which is known today as the Second Avenue subway line.

After this, Dunne would get his next internship at NASA as part of the Undergraduate Student Research Program. He was selected as a member of the NASA Student Ambassador Virtual Community Program due to his effective communication, leadership and teamwork skills. It was this internship that would lead to Dunne working full-time at NASA following the completion of his master’s degree.

Wigand also said that he would get to see Dunne while he was working at NASA.

“I was able to go down to Houston and visit him at work in the control center which was awesome,” Wigand said.

Dunne started at NASA in the Flight Dynamics Division

doing attitude analysis, determining the correct orientation for spacecraft headed to the ISS. He’s now moved on to a position in Program Integration for the Artemis Campaign, NASA’s plan for, “Exploring the Moon for scientific discovery, technology advancement, and to learn how to live and work on another world as we prepare for human missions to Mars,” according to nasa.gov.

Dunne told The Quadrangle he still works on the operational side of things, taking on the “Capcom role of talking to the astronauts for when they’re on the space station.”

He’s managed to secure these roles through hard work and dedication, offering

a unique perspective to them thanks to his efforts in attending and recently graduating from the United States Air Force Test Pilot School. There, he learned the ins and outs of testing aircraft and ensuring their safety for the humans who will be traveling in them. Dunne has taken this knowledge back to NASA and is now using it to help them one day send humanity beyond the moon, and all the way to Mars. Although he’s moved on to helping humanity step into the stars, he has not forgotten where he made his first step. Dunne said that he’s still a big fan of Manhattan, and even named one of his dogs Jasper.

Apart from working at NASA, Dunne is also a recreational Mountain Climber. Here is standing on top of the Aconcagua mountain range in Argentina MATHEW DUNNE/ COURTESY

Alex Cohen is set to deliver the keynote address for the 2024 Manhattan College Graduate Commencement ceremony. STEVEN&ALEXANDRACOHENFOUNDATION/

Matthew Dunne receiving an award for his work as a part of the Crew-1 SpaceX mission. MATHEW DUNNE/ COURTESY

From Marvel Comics to ‘Good Morning America’, Quad Alumni Are Making Their Mark

Kyla Guilfoil Senior Writer

The Quadrangle has been home to hundreds of Manhattan College students interested in the campus community, journalism, photography, art and storytelling. The newspaper has drawn some of the college’s best and brightest to contribute to its pages over the last 100 years, with its alumni having gone on to prove their talents beyond campus.

From published work at Marvel Comics, to managing press campaigns for books at Simon & Schuster and production on one of the country’s most beloved morning shows, The Quadrangle’s alum have taken the skills and passion they harbored while on our staff and dispersed them out into the world.

Chris Cirillo ‘15 is a producer for Good Morning America, working on documentary style projects and short segments for the show.

COURTESY / CHRIS CIRILLO COURTESY

Chris Cirillo, Class of ‘15

Chris Cirillo’s work can be seen on the award-winning morning show, “Good Morning America” at ABC News. A 2015 graduate from Manhattan College, Cirillo also served as sports editor for The Quadrangle while he was an undergrad.

Cirillo said that The Quadrangle gave him a place to develop his aspirations to be a journalist after college, giving him opportunities to chase important stories and experience what it takes to put a story together. When Cirillo was a junior at Manhattan in 2014, the Jaspers’ basketball team won the MAAC Conference Championships, allowing him to travel to Orlando, FL. and cover the Jaspers’ epic showdown with top seed Louisville in the NCAA tournament.

“I think The Quad is where I really realized that this is something that I enjoy and would want to do with 40 hours of my week,” Cirillo said. “I just always loved it, and so I knew that, it confirmed my belief that this is what I wanted to do.”

Since graduating from Manhattan, Cirillo has earned a master’s degree in journalism from Columbia University, covered the 2016 Olympics at NBC and been a video jour-

nalist at the New York Times. Since 2018, Cirillo has worked at Good Morning America, producing video features, writing scripts and pitching stories for the platform.

In his role at Good Morning America, Cirillo worked on a 25-minute documentary which was featured on Hulu, covering the victims of the Club Q nightclub shooting in 2022. Cirillo said that it was an impactful project for him to work on because it considered the victims of the tragic shooting beyond the night of the crime. He explained that it helped show the impacts of the shooting in a more realistic and true way.

“It was one of those moments where I felt like it was nice to shine a light on [the victims], because I think we tend to forget that when these mass shootings happen, it doesn’t just go away,” Cirillo said.

Lauren Carr ‘16 leads national campaigns for bestselling novels.

COURTESY / LAUREN CARR

Lauren Carr, Class of ‘16

Lauren Carr spearheaded entertainment coverage during her undergrad years, serving as assistant arts & entertainment editor for a year, and then head arts & entertainment editor for another two. Now, after graduating from Manhattan in 2016, she takes the lead on publicity campaigns for bestselling books at Simon & Schuster, collaborating with producers and journalists to showcase important and compelling stories.

Carr said she was always very drawn towards entertainment news, always the first to cover plays, festivals and other entertainment events around MC’s campus. She added that her favorite thing about The Quadrangle was the camaraderie and teamwork she experienced with her fellow editors, all working together to bring the best stories of campus life to students.

Originally, Carr wanted to be a producer but found herself taking a publicity position at Scholastic books after graduating. Now, having gone on to be Senior Publicity Manager at Simon & Schuster, Carr said being a publicist is actually quite like being a producer.

“To be a producer, you have to get all the people to come together; the interviews, the writing, the videos,” Carr

said. “Being a publicist is very much being a producer.. I still am doing that type of work where I am handed a project and have to pull it together.”

Carr explained that she leads publicity campaigns for Gallery Books, an imprint of Simon & Schuster which largely focuses on entertainment books. One of the campaigns Carr recently led was for actress Megan Fox’s book, “Pretty Boys are Poisonous.”

Carr works with these authors to help get them on radio, broadcast and digital platforms to promote their books. She also organizes book tours, helping to connect authors with bookstores, venues and media for the cities that they will visit to share their stories.

Mike Fichera ‘91, ‘93 has had his artwork and writing published in several Marvel books.

COURTESY / MIKE FICHERA

Mike Fichera, Class of ‘91, ‘93

Mike Fichera, who graduated from Manhattan College with a bachelor’s and master’s degree in environmental engineering in 1991 and 1993, respectively, was drawn to The Quadrangle by his love for drawing comics. While he had decided to pursue a career in engineering, Fichera still held onto his passion for artwork when he got to MC, telling The Quadrangle that he was, “drawing all over campus.”

After doing artwork for Campus Ministry, groups in the dorms and drawing for posters and tee shirts, The Quadrangle approached Fichera about starting a column. By the end of his freshman year, Fichera had established a regular comic strip in the paper, called “Points to Ponder.”

“I just enjoyed having the creative freedom to express myself and take a risk and see what’s funny, see what’s not and see if I get a laugh each week, so it was great,” Fichera said.

Fichera graduated from MC after drawing for the newspaper for all five years he attended the school, helping to keep his passion for art close. After he had gone forward with a successful engineering career, Fichera also kept drawing. In fact, for the last 20 years Fichera has been a freelance writer and artist at Marvel

Comics. Both his artwork and his writing have been featured in several Marvel books, including the Official Handbooks of the Marvel Universe and the Guidebook of the Cinematic Universe. Fichera said that the opportunity to draw and be published at The Quadrangle helped keep him inspired and have a creative outlet, which he has carried on with him through his professional life.

Joe Liggio, Class of ‘19

Joe Liggio ‘19 has put his journalism skills to use in a unique position: a public affairs specialist for the Army National Guard.

Liggio came to MC with an aspiration to pursue storytelling, but was hesitant at first to put himself out there at The Quadrangle. However, a couple months into his freshman year, Liggio found a worm in his salad at Locke’s, leading a Quadrangle editor to interview him for a story. From there, Liggio became a part of the staff, serving as assistant news editor for the entirety of his undergraduate career.

After he graduated from Manhattan, Liggio was working in communications at a nonprofit healthcare organization, VNS Health. After about three and half years there, he went to do something he had always wanted to do: enlist in the military.

But, when Liggio went to enlist, he learned that he could actually take his communications work with him. After joining the Army National Guard, Liggio received further journalism training and became a public affairs specialist. On top of his everyday duties as a soldier, Liggio takes photos, videos and writes stories for the National Guard.

“I went down one day to the recruiting office and I talked to somebody about getting a job doing army journalism,” Liggio said. “And after a few months, I secured that job and enlisted and now I’m here.”

His work has brought him around the world, including taking photos of the Brazilian army in the Amazon jungle.

“It’s a crazy job, it’s an amazing job,” Liggio said. “It really depends on the mission. It’s a lot of work with a lot of different kinds of people.”

Gabriella

DePinho, Class of ‘21

Gabriella DePinho traded in her Jasper green for Columbia blue, achieving a master’s degree in journalism in 2023 from Columbia after graduating from Manhattan College in 2021. DePinho currently works as an updates writer at Wirecutter, the product review website affiliated with the New York Times.

Before she took on her full-time reporting role, DePinho was just an underclassman at MC who didn’t quite know what she wanted to do yet. She was originally a psychology major, having entered college with no intention of becoming a full-time journalist. However, DePinho found herself at The Quadrangle and fell in love with the paper and the work that she was doing for it.

She spoke about a meeting she attended with administrators when she was just a freshman, where she felt completely out of place but stayed to make sure the story was covered. After that, DePinho said she felt like she could do anything. She ended up changing her major to communication and was eventually elected editor-in-chief of The Quadrangle in her junior year.

“I just kept taking assignments that I felt were hard and it just got exciting and it became fun and it stopped being scary,” DePinho said. “Then I realized you can legitimately make a career out of talking to people and showing up places and asking questions.”

After she went to Columbia to start her master’s degree, DePinho started working at NBC as an intern for the Select team, which covered deals, tips and product reviews for the platform. She was hired as a product coordinator for the team later that year, and worked there until scoring her full-time role at Wirecutter in Dec. 2022.

DePinho said that her reporting role allows her to learn so much and to have fun with her writing.

“I think I’m surprised by how much fun I’m having with it,” DePinho said. “And I’m just appreciating how much I’m learning.”

Joe Liggio ‘19 traveled to the jungle in the Amazon to photograph the Brazilian army.

COURTESY / JOE LIGGIO

Gabriella DePinho ‘21 works as a reporter at Wirecutter. COURTESY / GABRIELLA DEPINHO

MC Alums Talk Careers in Public Service Without a Law Degree

Jocelyn Visnov Senior Writer

Four MC alums returned to campus last week to discuss their chosen careers in government and public service without pursuing a law degree.

Each of these alumni, all of whom studied either political science or international relations among other majors and minors at MC, spoke with current students and faculty about their career paths since graduating from the former School of Liberal Arts, now known as the Kakos School of Arts and Sciences.

The event was led by Margaret Groarke, Ph.D., professor of political science in the alumni room of the O’Malley Library. Each alum on the panel was asked to speak on their college and career experiences, followed by an open forum for questions from current students in attendance.

Amongst the alumni in attendance was Marshall Strawbridge ‘21. Strawbridge, who was a dual major in political science and philosophy, spoke on his experience continuing his career in the Bronx after graduating from MC.

“I think that the government is really like the Bronx, in terms of the possibility for broad impact,” Strawbridge said. “We’re the fastest-growing borough in the city. And that really, to me, makes it an incredibly opportune time and place to be building a career in public service. And I don’t take that lightly.”

Strawbridge currently works as the director of Small Business and Community Outreach for the Bronx Economic Development Corporation.

“A degree in political science and philosophy I think is really aimed at teaching students how to think and how to work through big problems,” Strawbridge said. “I think that translates well to a career in

public service. I would also say as someone whose public service career so far has been within the Bronx, the connections and networking opportunities with folks who have led careers and made an impact here in the Bronx are really valuable.”

Panelists discussed opportunities in both the private and public sectors.

Carley Brownell ‘20 was a double major in peace and justice studies and international studies. While at MC, she was a member of Women Inspiring Successful Enterprise (WISE) where she interned with the Fresh Air Fund. During the discussion, Brownell spoke about her current role working as a fundraising officer for 350. org, a nonprofit organization centered around climate justice.

“I thought I wanted to be

a social worker, but I wanted to do a lot of different things,” Brownell said. “And then I learned more about how many jobs there are in nonprofits. And what I really like about my job is that I love working to defend climate change, it’s something I’ve been passionate about for as long as I can remember and it’s something really urgent. I love working for an international nonprofit. It’s really fun.”

Panelist Nicole Matias ‘17 graduated with a major in political science and dual minors in international and women and gender studies. After graduating from MC, Matias went on to receive a master of arts in international crime and justice from John Jay College (CUNY) and currently works as the director of policy for the NYC Business Integrity Commission.

Matias mentioned how she felt her education at MC prepared her for continuing on to receive her master’s degree.

“I think just getting a strong foundation in basic reading and communication skills that honestly a lot of people in ‘the real world’ do not have,” Matias said. “And I think liberal arts education prepares you for that.”

Also on the panel was Chris Shemanski ‘11, who was a double major in political science and economics at MC. Shemanski currently works as a higher education administrator at Stevens Institute of Technology while working towards a Ph.D. in Higher Education Management, Policy and Leadership.

“I think my ability to write, my ability to communicate and my understanding of self all came through here [at the

college],” Shemansky said. “The classes of political science taught me qualitative skills, my classes for economics taught me quantitative skills and then everything outside the classroom complimented that with people skills.

Shemansky also noted the feelings of nostalgia that came with revisiting campus for that evening’s event.

“To me, college gave me the space to be curious, try new things, have an absolutely amazing time and really make some of my fondest memories,” Shemansky said. “I came here about an hour earlier just to walk around campus and just being on the quadrangle felt so nostalgic. It’s changed, but it hasn’t, so there’s a lot of good feelings in coming back to campus.”

The four panelists stand close out the event with a photo with Margaret Groarke. JOCELYN VISNOV/ THE QUADRANGLE

Alumni Spotlight: Kelly Burns, ‘17, Ignites Media Production World Ablaze

Grace Cardinal Editor-in-Chief

Kelly Burns, ‘17, graduated from Manhattan College with a communication degree with a concentration in broadcasting and a minor in digital media art. Now, seven years after graduation, Burns works as an associate producer for CNN International while maintaining her MC roots as a mentor in the Center for Career Development’s (CCD) Mentorship Program.

In her time at the college, Burns was involved on campus. She served as The Quadrangle’s production editor, a student worker in the office of Residence Life, the eucharistic minister for Sunday Mass and was a participant in intramural sports.

“I really enjoyed my time with The Quadrangle,” Burns said. “I thought it really set me up for working in news one day especially. I did a lot of on campus interviews with people from student activities and leadership and sports and I think that was really valuable experience even when I didn’t realize it at the time. Having those conversational skills has definitely come in handy.”

Burns’ days vary with what projects she gets to work

on. While oftentimes she’s producing sit-down interviews for some of CNN International’s top talent or producing content in the field, she can also be found in the newsroom helping out where needed. Burns has had the opportunity to interview talent from famous chefs to popular athletes and everything in between.

“I think my favorite part about my job is that I get to wear many hats,” Burns said.

“I mentioned earlier I get to field produce for Christiane Amanpour when she’s at the United Nations doing the General Assembly coverage. Some days, I’m field producing an interview with Paris Hilton or Bobby Flay, or the Brooklyn Nets dance team for our New Year’s Eve show. Other days, I’m in the office, providing guest notes for our anchors… it’s a wide range of different talent and opportunities.”

Currently, Burns’ biggest project includes producing footage at former President Trump’s hush money trial in lower Manhattan.

“It’s a long day,” Burns said about being in the field. “You plan to be out there for at least eight hours. We sort of have a different scope of it because we’re explaining this to an international audience that really aren’t following along minute by minute…It’s

very interesting because you’re standing outside on the street, closed off in a press pen with multiple networks, some that speak English, some that don’t. Behind us are Trump fans but also protesters…It’s been an adjustment and a learning curve…It’s unlike anything I’ve ever been a part of in terms of field producing.”

As a student at MC, Burns was always a standout amongst faculty members.

“Her work ethic was, what does it take to, across the board with virtually every faculty member you encounter, agree that you do superior work,” Thom Gencarelli, Ph.D., founder and professor of the communication department said. “You have to have a work ethic and be able to apply yourself to do that and to do it in a way where everyone agrees because we don’t look up what someone else or other people gave you when we assign grades. We’re looking at the work that you do, and she was doing it for everybody.”

In addition to her professional career, Burns started her stint in the CCD mentorship program in the fall of 2022, where she was paired with class of 2025 mentee Molly Callahan.

“Kelly is my mentor and it’s

clear she’s very hardworking,” Callahan said. “She cares a lot about her job and works very hard at it. She’s just such a great example for me, as someone who’s interested in the media and news industry. She really did a great job of being so welcoming and taking me under her wing and showing me the ropes. She’s helped me prepare for interviews and helped me look for roles and anything I need, she’s there to listen and help with.”

Despite their official mentoring relationship concluding with the school’s program in the spring of 2023, Burns remains an individual that Callahan can lean on for anything she may need.

“We still keep in touch, she still will email and check in on me,” Callahan said. “Whenever I have something going on, I’ll be sure to let her know. It’s this great relationship that I have now. Not only is it a great connection, but it’s that great mentor/mentee dynamic where I always have someone to turn to, to ask for advice. She’s almost like my professional big sister.”

Burns credits her time at Manhattan College with providing her the opportunity to make new connections and gain lifelong skills.

“Manhattan [College] provided me a lot of opportunities to meet new people and gain new skills,” Burns said. “I think the size of the school really helps you make friends in effortless ways…I don’t think other schools are like that. The size of the school and classes just helps you make friends and also get to know your professors in organic and natural ways that give you more [of a] sense of confidence and contacts and networks for when you eventually are done with school and you have these everlasting relationships.”

While Burns is grateful for her time at CNN, in the future she hopes to move away from the world of breaking and international news and explore other sides of the industry.

“In the future, I see myself shifting away from hard news and moving into entertainment,” Burns said. “Learning how to navigate breaking news and highprofile talent early in my career has set me up for my next chapter of media and television production.”

Editor’s Note* Mack Olmsted contributed to reporting.

Kelly Burns has worked with the CNN team since her internship there in 2017. KELLY BURNS/COURTESY

Kelly Burns has worked with the CNN team since her internship there in 2017.

What Are Manhattan College Performing Art Alumni Up To?

Catherine

Diakou

Staff Writer

Manhattan College’s popular performing arts program has left an impact on alum over the years, influencing job opportunities and life decisions of past students.

MC graduate Katelyn Connor, ‘14, majored in both English and psychology while making time to heavily involve herself in the performing arts program.

“I first became involved because I had gotten a scholarship for it, to be in as many different areas as I could be,” Connor said.

The performing arts program is extremely studentdriven, allowing members to contribute as much as they’d like in creating new clubs and opportunities.

“We didn’t have an a cappella group and I went to Andy [MC’s current Director for Performing Arts] and asked if I could start creating this group [The Manhattones],” Connor said. “A lot of people were really interested and it

kind of got the ball rolling from there.”

Andrew Bauer began his time at Manhattan College as a temporary choir director, later being asked to stay full-time beginning in the fall of 2012.

“I teach a lot of music classes including the album class,” Bauer said, “I also teach composition in orchestration, audio mixing and production, a bunch of vocal classes, as well as tutorial for pipe organ and different instruments. I direct the singers and the music ministry, and I am the interim director of the orchestra. I am also heavily involved with players as the music director.”

Many students felt they had gained skills from working with Bauer that they still use today.

Allison Powers ‘21 graduated MC as a history major with a music minor. She credits her inspiration to begin her performing journey to Andrew Bauer.

“I always had this secret interest in music,” Powers said. “I didn’t really find the courage to actually sing out and show my talents until I was in college and I feel like Andy Bauer really helped me with

my confidence. I was not even able to publicly speak, I had a little bit of a stutter but without Andy I don’t think I would’ve been able to overcome that.”

Bauer shared that in music there is a more open space for students to work with the teacher.

“In music we’re actually working with the kids, I play music with them, we make music together,” Bauer said. “The relationship is more personal.”

Alum shared the lasting effects that getting involved in performing arts had on them. Siobhan Connor ‘17 majored in business management with a minor in performing arts. She shared how much her time in singers meant to her, mentioning the lifelong friends she had made there.

“My friends [from the program] go to karaoke every three months,” Connor said.

Students from every major participate in the clubs and apply the skills from performing arts to their lives after college.

“The students that are in performing arts here now have decided that they want to be

engineers or they want to be teachers or work in healthcare, or whatever discipline that they have chosen, but that doesn’t make them love music any less,” Bauer said. “As far as their academic pursuits, it

gives them a sort of mental contrast, it exercises another part of their brains, and that leads to great satisfaction and joy for them.”

Jasper Jams: Alumni’s Picks

Jill Tuthill

Asst. A&E Editor

The Quadrangle asked Manhattan College alums for their favorite music anthems that defined their time at MC. The responses varied from current pop superstars such as Ariana Grande to classics such as Natalie Cole. From the classes of 1982 to this year’s graduates, we compiled a list of their responses.

Class of 1982: My Sherona by The Knack. A classic rock anthem to bring back memories, excitement and air guitar techniques. This is The Knack’s debut single, released in 1979 when it jumped quickly to number one

in ratings and in the hearts of classic rock fans everywhere.

Lyrics: Ooh, my little pretty one, pretty one/When you gonna give me some time, Sharona?/Ooh, you make my motor run, my motor run/ Gun it coming off of the line, Sharona

Class of 2023: Midnight Rain by Taylor Swift.

“Reminds me to keep working hard!”said Jilleen Barrett, Quad alum in the class of 2023. A modern song submission that touches the hearts of both current and former MC students.

Lyrics: Lady hear me tonight ‘cause my feeling is just so right/As we dance by the moonlight can’t you see you’re

my delight?/Lady I just feel like I won’t get you out of my mind/I feel loved for the first time and I know that it’s true/I can tell by the look in your eyes

Class of 2024: Eternal Sunshine by Ariana Grande. “Pop perfection and Ariana is an amazing vocalist,” wrote Chris Osorio, a member of the class of 2024. Another pop anthem that most current students would recognize if it were playing on the quad on one of these sunny April days.

Lyrics: So I try to wipe my mind/Just so I feel less insane/ Rather feel painless/I’d rather forget than know, know for sure/What we could’ve fought through behind this door, mm/ So I close it and move, yeah, yeah

Class of 2017: This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) by Natalie Cole. Kelly Burns ‘17 says that she remembers, “falling in love with this song the first time I watched The Parent Trap. The instrumentals, lyrics and tempo always put a smile on my face,” Burns said. “And it’s fun to dance to!” This was Cole’s debut single that was released in 1975 but still found its way onto social media platforms in such an influential way that almost anyone would say that they know and love this song.

Lyrics: So I try to wipe my mind/Just so I feel less insane/ Rather feel painless/I’d rather forget than know, know for sure/What we could’ve fought

through behind this door, mm/So I close it and move, yeah, yeah

As the responses poured in from MC alums, it became evident that music truly has a timeless quality that bridges generations. From the energetic riffs of The Knack’s “My Sharona,” cherished by the Class of 1982, to the modern beats of Ariana Grande’s “Eternal Sunshine,” resonating with the Class of 2024, each song carries with it memories, emotions, and a sense of nostalgia for Jaspers from all around.

MC Alum Siobhan Connor as Elle Woods in Manhattan College’s 2017 production of Legally Blonde. SIOBHAN CONNOR / COURTESY

sports Manhattan College Alumni Knock it Out of the Park in the Sports Industry

Grace Cardinal Editor-in-Chief

From photographing players and teams to account management, Manhattan College alum are part of the behind-the-scenes backbone that keeps the sports industry standing. The Quadrangle spoke with three recent MC alumni about their experience working in their various positions and their best advice to current students interested in the industry.

Cal Lepkowski, ‘23: Freelance Highlight Production Assistant at NBC Sports

In his time at the college, Lepkowski studied communication with a concentration in sports media production, and holds a double minor in Italian and digital arts and humanities. His current position as a freelance highlight production assistant at NBC Sports varies each day.

“Usually I get my schedule at the beginning of every month,” Lepkowski said. “On those days that they need me, I go into our NBC Sports office in Stamford, Connecticut, I work in a tape room, and I get assigned games to watch. While I’m watching those games, I have a little notepad to take down certain plays, replays, shots of players, coaches. Then I work with a replay operator right next to me. With those clips, we compile playlists, and then those playlists get to our on air talent, which then get aired to NBC Sports, Peacock and NBC broadcast for the public to watch.”

Originally, Lepkowski planned on entering college

with a concentration in broadcasting.

“When I first started my freshman year, I wanted to get into broadcasting,” Lepkowski said. “COVID happened and then my sophomore year I started taking the production classes at Manhattan and producing the men’s and women’s basketball games with Joe Ruggiero. From there, something just clicked. I thought, ‘I’m enjoying this. It’s fun.’ It’s just this concept of not necessarily me having the spotlight, but more of giving that spotlight to others that really stood out to me.”

Lepkowski’s advice to current Manhattan College students in their undergraduate years is to get involved with everything they can, regardless of the industry they hope to end up in.

“Get involved with whatever clubs [and] reach out to professors to see if they know any opportunities to expand your career field and knowledge in that environment,” Lepkowski said. “I’d say just the concept of exposure therapy can be really beneficial for Manhattan students. Experience things that you’re not necessarily familiar with, dipping your toes in those waters.”

Joshua Sawyer ‘22: Coordinator of Photography at the Brooklyn Nets

Sawyer received his undergraduate degree in communication with a concentration in sports media production. He was one of the first to graduate with the degree, as the concentration at the college has only been offered since 2018.

“Sports media production

was a new major when I started there, and I started to notice more social media content, teams and athletes putting out photos and videos, and I was like, ‘seems like it’d be kind of cool to do that’,” Sawyer said. “I always knew I wanted to be around sports, but I just didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do around sports.”

Needless to say, Sawyer found his niche in producing sports content and photography with teams. While Sawyer’s day-to-day projects vary, they all allow him to consistently interact with players and coaches along with other workers associated with the Nets and Barclays Center.

“In season is primarily team focused so we run on the team schedule, as far as practices games, shoot-arounds, and then outside of that, any community event that a player is going to,” Sawyer said. “Covering all of that, photography wise for use on the website, social media platforms for the Nets, and for the players on their own personal platforms.”

When out of season, Sawyer told The Quadrangle that his duties include photography for events at Barclays Center and all departments associated with the Nets, including sponsorships, marketing and sales. Throughout the year his duties include covering other important events, such as summer league and the draft.

Sawyer credits MC with providing him with many connections that influenced his career.

“During my time at Manhattan College, I got to meet a lot of people and network with them and build connections in the sports industry which helped me be able to connect with people in the NBA and with the Nets that got me this position,” Sawyer said. “Being able to study sports at Manhattan College gave me the assurance of ‘okay, this is what I want to do and this is the industry I want to work in after I graduate’, so that was definitely a big help for me.”

Sawyer’s advice to current students echoed Lepkowski. He encouraged students to get involved in all activities, regardless if they are associated with their major.

“I did a bunch of different stuff in school that wasn’t even sports-related,” Sawyer said. “I took journalism classes, I did one semester with The Quad. I knew that being exposed to all this stuff and learning it

Mulkigan holds up a custom jersey made for one of her promotions.

MADDIE MULKIGAN/COURTESY

and building connections with people was always gonna help me down the road…Just do as much as you can at school because it’s a great time to experiment and get as much exposure and experience as you can.”

Maddie Mulkigan ‘23: Account Executive - Group Sales Representative with the New York Mets

Mulkigan, an athlete herself, graduated from Manhattan College with a degree in communication, a concentration in public relations and a minor in English. While in season, Mulkigan’s job is more fan-base than athlete-base, but she gets to work closely with the Mets organization each day regardless.

“I basically spend my nine to five on the phone making cold calls,” Mulkigan said. “Right now I’ve done a lot of focusing on self-prospecting, so reaching out to nonprofits and police departments and just trying to get them to do a group. There’s definitely a lot of different people I’m talking to, and you kind of have to change the way that you’re relating to them and speaking with them and recommending what they should do.”

In her day-to-day life, Mulkigan helps these groups plan their fan experience on and off the field. Whether it’s an education day or a bachelorette party, Mulkigan ensures their experiences run smoothly and are enjoyable.

“My favorite part is just being able to make some of my clients days or months… I’m getting to see them enjoy

something that can be so much more than a baseball game,” Mulkigan said. “I can turn tickets into a real experience that people are going to remember.”

Mulkigan said that knowing she wanted to go into sports, she made sure to get involved with many areas surrounding the industry while still in her undergraduate years.

“I knew I always want to work in sports, that’s why I covered the sports side of The Quad and that’s why I was managing the lacrosse team,” Mulkigan said. “I was ready to take on any position that was offered to me in sports…I never really thought of ticketing or even group sales. I was realizing once I got into this position that I had done multiple group outings and didn’t realize it was what I’m selling now.”

Mulkigan’s advice for students is to push themselves out of their comfort zones and network with as many people as possible.

“It’s really putting yourself out of your comfort zones, you’re not going to improve and find your best self if you’re not doing things that make you uncomfortable,” Mulkigan said. “I was going to tons of networking events and introducing myself to people and putting myself out there. It really didn’t boil down to what paper you’re writing or what classes you’re taking, it’s the skills you learn in those classes, in those group projects, in the meetings with your professors, it’s those intangibles that are going to take you to the next level.”

Lepkowski had a credit aired after the NFC Divisional Round game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers against the Detroit Lions in January. CAL LEPKOWSKI / COURTESY

What’s Up With Baseball Alum?

Isaiah Rosario Sports Editor

Last year, two of Manhattan College’s own baseball alumni got the call-up to Major League Baseball. Tom Cosgrove and Joe Jacques were drafted out of college to join major league programs.

In the 2018 MLB Draft, the Pittsburgh Pirates selected Jacques at pick 984 in the thirtythird round. In the twelfth round at number 348 in the 2017 MLB draft, the San Diego Padres selected Cosgrove.

Tom Cosgrove ‘17: San Diego Padres

On April 29, 2023, Cosgrove made his major league debut against the San Francisco Giants. He was able to get the win despite only pitching a third of an inning.

In the 2023 season, he had a record of 1-2 pitching to a stellar 1.75 earned run average in 54 games and 51.1 innings pitched. He allowed 31 hits

and 12 runs with 10 of them earned and allowed three home runs.

2024 looks quite different for the second-year relief pitcher. In 13 games, he has a 10.13 earned run average in 13 games. In 10.2 innings pitched he allowed 15 hits and 12 earned runs. Additionally, he allowed three home runs and four walks. He has also rung up 13 batters.

This season does not look too great for Cosgrove, but he has the stuff to pick it back up and be the elite reliever he was last year. Cosgrove spoke to the Riverdale Press about being able to pitch in the major leagues.

“Honestly, I was waiting for that moment my whole life,” Cosgrove said in the RP article. “After the first pitch, I got my breathing under control and was just focused on getting the out.”

Joe Jacques ‘18: Arizona Diamondbacks

On June 12, 2023, Jacques made his major league debut with the Boston Red Sox. 2023 would be the year when

Jacques would have the most appearances in his career. In his debut, he threw five pitches with three of those being strikes against the Colorado Rockies.

In 2023, he was 2-1, with an earned run average of 5.06 in 23 appearances, and started in one game. In his appearances, he pitched 26.2 innings, allowing 32 hits and 17 runs with 15 of those runs being earned. Hitters unfortunately saw him well at the plate, as he allowed batters to have a .308 average.

One of his best appearances came in a game against the Oakland Athletics on July 7 where he pitched two scoreless innings and allowed two hits. Another great outing from Jacques was on August 4 where he pitched one and twothirds innings of relief against the Toronto Blue Jays where he struck out one on 18 pitches and 14 were strikes.

2024 is a bit of a different story for Jacques, as he only appeared in one game on April 18. In one and two-thirds innings, he allowed three hits, one earned run and two strikeouts. On April 23, Jacques

was designated for assignment and claimed off waivers by the Arizona Diamondbacks. The left-handed pitcher is currently in the Diamondbacks system in Triple-A.

James WashingtonIII

The Manhattan College Mondel UN Team were awarded the Distinguished Delegation Award at the 2024 Conference.

GerrardP.BushelltoReceive theHonoraryDoctorofScience degreeat2024Undergraduate Commencement

Angelina Perez Arts & Entertainment Editor/ Engagement Editor

Manhattan College students were informed via the official Manhattan College Instagram account that Gerrard P. Bushell, Ph.D., chairman of CAG Holdings, will receive an honorary doctor of science degree at the undergraduate commencement on May 18.

“From August 2019 to April 2024, Dr. Bushell also served as the lead executive for the $9.5 billion New Terminal One, the nation’s largest publicprivate infrastructure project,” the caption on the post said.

“Dr. Bushell served as the Executive Chair and Chairman & CEO of the New Terminal One when The Carlyle Group led the consortium, and President & CEO upon Ferrovial becoming the lead shareholder in 2022. With an impressive background spanning [across] finance, public service, and academia, Dr. Bushell has dedicated his career to driving transformative change and creating lasting impact in communities across New York.”

Seniors Liam Donahue and Julianna Iovine, the president and chief strategic officer for MC’s economic and finance society, spoke to The Quadrangle about what

Bushell’s honorary degree means to seniors who are interested in his experience and ready to walk the stage in the next few weeks.

“I think the appointment of Gerrard P. Bushell as a commencement speaker was a strong choice given his experience in the fields of engineering, finance, government and academia,” Donahue said. “Mr. Bushell is accomplished in all three areas, and I think he will deliver a commencement speech that will resonate with many graduates.”

Bushell graduated from Columbia University, receiving

Grace Cardinal Editor-in-Chief

James Washington III, an exercise science major and army veteran, has been selected as the valedictorian of the undergraduate class of 2024. Washington will give a speech at the undergraduate commencement ceremony, scheduled for May 18 in Draddy Gymnasium.

Washington came to Manhattan College after an eight-year stint in the army. When he left the service, he returned to New York City where he got in touch with the Bronx Veterans Association to help him find a college to pursue a bachelor’s degree. While his original intention was to pursue physical therapy, Washington ended up an exercise science major on a pre-nursing track. Ultimately, Washington credits the Veteran Success Center at MC for being the reason he committed to the college - and says it will be what he misses the most.

“The first thing that I’m going to miss is the community from the Veterans Success Center,” Washington said. “It was so nice having somewhere to belong, somewhere to go right away. I didn’t have to find it, it was already there waiting for me. So I had something to integrate me and help me integrate into college life as an

older student.”

Washington credits the professors and students in the kinesiology department for his success after taking a decade away from the classroom.

“I’m also going to miss the kinesiology department,” Washington said. “Honestly, there are extraordinary people there that genuinely care about the students. They want your success. They will make things happen for you…they are those people that if you ask them, they will move a mountain…Everyone’s looking after everybody to ensure their success, and that’s something I don’t think I would have gotten anywhere else if I didn’t come to this school.”

Washington is described by his friends and professors as a humble individual with a drive to accomplish all he can while bringing up those around him.

“He’s just an overall good guy,” senior exercise science major Carina Ashman said. “He’s a very hard worker. He’s so busy, but he really takes the time to make everyone feel like they’re important.”

One of Washington’s close friends, Dylan Lyons, a fellow veteran, shared an anecdote with The Quadrangle that he believes showcases Washington’s true character.

“I remember one day, we were at the Veterans Center, and I was having the worst

CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

Volume CIX, Issue 12

APRIL 30, 2024

The Editorial Board

Grace Cardinal Editor-in-Chief

Angelina Persaud Managing Editor

Brooke DellaRocco News Editor

Angelina Perez Engagment Editor

Angelina Persaud Asst. News Editor

Mack Olmsted Features Editor Mary Haley Asst. Features Editor

Angelina Perez Arts & Entertainment Editor

Isaiah Rosario Sports Editor

Maizy Swift Ivy Jaep Production Editors

Mary Haley Social Media Editor

Elizabeth Kalaj Web Editor

Maizy Swift Jill Tuthill Asst. Arts & Entertainment Editors

Andrew Mannion Emmanouel Sofillas Asst. Sports Editors

Barbara Vasquez Asst. Production Editor

Nicholas Gilewicz Faculty Advisor

About The Quadrangle

A tradition since 1924, The Quadrangle is a news organization run by the students of Manhattan College. We strive to cover news around campus and the greater community, publishing weekly in print and daily online. Our goal is always accuracy, relevancy and professionalism.

The opinions expressed in The Quadrangle are those of the individual writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editorial Board, the College or the student body.

Join The Quadrangle

The Quadrangle’s staff holds weekly open meetings on Tuesdays at 4 p.m. in Kelly Commons Room 412. All are welcome to come and join the club.

LETTER from the EDITOR

Dear Readers,

The time has finally come for me to bid you all farewell for the summer. It feels absurd and unreal that I am already halfway through my time serving as Editor-in-Chief of this amazing, important publication. This semester has been one of the hardest challenges of my life, but also one of the biggest learning experiences. Through the college’s ups and downs and our own personal ones, you stuck with us through the thick and thin and we are forever appreciative. I can promise that we will be back in the fall with as much energy and gusto as we’ve had these last 100 years, and will be ready to report on anything and everything we can.

One of the things I have dreaded the most since coming into this position is knowing that I am the one who needs to bid farewell to the senior class of 2024. This class of amazing women has done more for this publication than I could even begin to describe. They were the ones who have mentored me since day 1 on this paper, and who were my first friends and support system on campus. It deserves a shoutout that two of our seven seniors graduating include Kyla Guilfoil and Jocelyn Visnov, EICs of 2022 and 2023 respectively. They maintained the paper through their own respective years of turmoil, and the fact that I am the one who gets to follow in their footsteps fills me with immense pride and a sense of duty that I will never let go. While I’d love to say more, they say it best themselves in their senior farewells. Be sure to check them out.

In this issue, we also highlight our Quad 10. The Quad 10 is MC’s version of the Time 100, honoring the best and brightest the class of 2024 has to offer, as voted on by our staff members, and includes three of our very own writers. These students have contributed so much to our campus, and deserve to be recognized. Check those out as well.

While I will miss writing my weekly letters to you all (I think we’ve become quite accustomed to each other by now, don’t you?) know that I will not be far away. If any of you wish to get in touch with The Quadrangle over the summer, know that I will be regularly monitoring our social medias, website, and email. I already cannot wait to return in the fall, and am excited to see what adventures the end of 2024 has in store for us.

Until next time,

Grace Cardinal

Editor-in-Chief

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

day,” Lyons said. “I was not doing well with my class. And he forced me to walk with him to go get coffee. It’s something so small, but it shows he knows the person pretty well. I got up and I got going, it made me feel better. He’s persistent. And him doing that really changed my day.”

During his four years at MC, Washington was involved in various organizations and honor societies, including serving as the Veteran Liaison between Student Government and the Veteran Success Center and as president of Phi Epsilon Kappa (PEK). Washington is also a student member of the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AHPERD).

Christie González-Toro, Ph.D., associate professor of kinesiology at MC, has interacted with Washington both as a student in her classroom and as a leader of PEK.

“He has qualities of being a kind, honest, and caring person,” González-Toro said. “As the president of PEK,

James has brought that inclusive leadership into the society. He created a welcoming environment within the honor society…It was amazing how he was working interactively with the board members. He listens to their ideas and they make the decisions together.”

Washington said that his experience transitioning from the army to higher education wasn’t as difficult as many assume.

“I’m not gonna say it was difficult, and if it was difficult, it’s because I made it difficult,” Washington said. “What I mean by that is, I had a perception of what I would come to being an older student and being around younger kids… are we going to be able to have normal conversations that didn’t feel like big brother/little brother/ little sister, can we be equals and just have casual conversation and pick each other’s brains? And we can.”

David Bollert, Ph.D., the director of veteran services and a philosophy professor at the college, said that Washington is one of the most loving students he has ever come across in his 19 years at MC.

“I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen, when I’m in the center, just talking to another student vet, them come in and come up to James and say,

I need a hug,” Bollert said. “And James will of course, and he gives the best hugs in the world. But there’s a seriousness to it as well that for James, he takes caring for others very seriously. He’s just another regarding [and] caring human being who goes out of his way to make those that he interacts with, those that he’s around, feel better about themselves.”

Washington says that while he never planned to be valedictorian, he’s honored to have been selected. Washington also acknowledged his fellow candidates as extraordinary individuals.

“How I got this status is all because of me wanting to challenge myself, because I wanted to know what I could truly do,” Washington said. “Can I be the guy that sticks it out from day one all the way through? Can I keep myself accountable for that long? Can I continue to show up the way I need to show up? And that was my mission for college, to prove to myself that I can be a student that excels the whole way through.”

Bollert said that outside of what his religious beliefs may be, Washington is the perfect embodiment of what it means to be a Lasallian.

“He’s thoroughly Lasallian,” Bollert said. “Part of what it

means to be a Lasallian is to care for others, in terms of their complete personhood, their mind, their heart, and perhaps given their beliefs, their soul as well, it’s James. Part of being a Lasallian is respect for the dignity of the human person…He lives it in terms of his words and his deeds and

that’s why I think he’s perfect for addressing the graduating class of 2024.”

After graduation, Washington plans to move on to the Pace Nursing Program in the spring of 2025. Ultimately, his goal is to receive his doctorate of nursing practice with a focus on cardiology.

GerrardP.BushelltoReceivetheHonorary DoctorofSciencedegreeat2024Undergraduate Commencement

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

a B.A., M.A. and Ph.D. in political sciences.

“Dr. Bushell came to DASNY (Dormitory Authority of the State of New York) as an accomplished investment advisor where he counseled leading institutional investors and raised private and public investment capital,” Columbia University’s political science faculty page wrote about Bushell. “He was a senior sales and client officer selling investment solutions for Alcentra and Insight at BY Mellon, director in the client partner group at KK, managing director at Arden Asset Management, and the head of institutional sales at the Legg Mason Company, ClearBridge

Advisors, formerly Citi Asset management,”

Iovine told The Quadrangle about the impact of Bushell’s credibility as a Columbia alumnus on MC students.

“His esteemed success and commitment to the community align with the academic excellence and service values MC offers,” Iovine said. “It is nice to see such an impactful person being honored and speaking at our graduation, and I’m looking forward to it.”

As the seniors of MC look forward to the future, Donahue reassures them that going to honors convocation and listening to what Bushell has to say can help the paths of soonto-be graduates.

“Given the college’s reputation in engineering and business, I believe Bushell’s

experience is relevant to many graduates,” Donahue said. “As many of us prepare for careers, I think we can aspire to forge a path similar to Mr. Bushell as he successfully obtained a Ph.D. from an Ivy League institution and has been CEO of multiple enterprises.”

The spring honors convocation will be held on Friday, May 17, at 11 a.m. in Draddy Gymnasium, where, alongside Bushell, senior students of MC will be honored for their academic achievements with medals and other awards.

Gerrard P. Bushell will receive an honorary doctor of science degree

James Washington III will give the Valedictorian speech at the undergraduate commencement ceremony.

JAMES WASHINGTON/COURTESY

ManhattanCollegeAnnounces TheirNew5-YearB.A/M.A andM.SPsychologyPrograms

Leyla J. Mercado and Anna Segota Staff Writers

Manhattan College has announced its new 5 and 5 ½ year accelerated programs for psychology through the Department of Social and Behavioral Services under the Kakos School of Arts and Science. The accelerated programs vary and serve the purpose of expanding future opportunities available to students in a new, reduced timeframe.

Graduate director of school counseling programs and associate professor, Ian Levy, spoke further about the intent of the program at the Noberini Psychology Colloquium.

“One of the things that we’ve been working on since, I

feel like a year now or so, has been these five-year program offerings” Levy said. “We thought it’d be pretty cool for this to happen quicker and in a more formal way for students. You save money, you save time and you get a degree out of it”.

The 5-Year B.A/M.A in psychology and school counseling presents undergraduate students in psychology with a route toward certification as a school counselor in New York State. Any students interested can embark on this pursuit by applying to the program during their junior year and beginning to take graduate counseling classes during their senior year. Students who are a part of the program graduate from Manhattan College with a B.A in psychology and an M.A in school counseling at the end of

their fifth year.

Followed by the option of two 5 ½ year programs, an accelerated B.A/M.S in psychology and mental health counseling ignites the start of students’ master’s degrees in mental health counseling. Like the 5-Year program, undergraduate students are expected to apply in their junior year and will be able to take 12 credits of graduate counseling classes their senior year. Students will then graduate with both a B.A in psychology and an M.S in mental health counseling at the conclusion of the 5 ½ years.

Marjan Persuh, associate professor and director of mental health counseling graduate programs, spoke to what the future entails for students after they complete the 5 ½ year program and spoke about how

supportive it is.

“This institution covers additional courses and you get a lot of clinical exposure … A lot of our students lately apply to private group practices and eventually work as private counselors,” Persuh said. “We also place them in the hospitals, non-profits, and community centers. So there’s a wide variety of places where you can work … We provide you with a lot of guidance in terms of preparing you for clinical practice.”

The final offering, which is also a 5 ½ year program, is an accelerated B.A/M.S. in psychology and marriage and family therapy. Both 5 ½ year programs entail the same requirements and criteria, with the only difference being the program under which you receive your B.A/M.S.

Michelle Bell, assistant professor and graduate director of marriage family therapy, further elaborated on the programs offered.

“Besides children and parents, you also work with individuals, in hospitals, schools and community-based organizations,” Bell said. “You can work in a wide variety of settings … MFTs learn about psychopathology, diagnosis, evaluation, assessment and how to be a therapist. You’re learning how to help people thrive and not just survive in their environments.”

The wide range of educational opportunities offered within the field of psychology at Manhattan College is ever-growing and will allow incoming classes of MC students to complete their degrees like never before.

Adrianne Hutto

Asst. Production Editor, Production Editor, Senior Writer

I remember in my first COMM class ever in college with Dr. Gencarelli, he told us to hold on to the next four years because you’ll blink and be graduating. At the time, being a freshman, everything feels so slow and I never would’ve imagined writing my senior farewell. I have been with The Quad since my first week of college in 2020 and I have read numerous farewell letters and even still I struggle with what to say.

I have been so blessed to be a part of such a wonderful paper. The members of The Quadrangle past and present have helped to shape the writer and person I am today. I am grateful to Christine Nappi for encouraging me to join Her Campus, Jilleen Barrett for introducing me to Lotus Magazine and Anna Woods for being the reason I became a part of the production team, and was qualified for Lotus in the first place. I am grateful to Nick for being the best advisor for The Quadrangle for my four years. I am grateful to my other seniors Lauren Raziano, Kyla Guilfoil, Angelica Niedermeyer and Jocelyn Visnov for being some of my best and oldest friends at this college. And lastly, I am grateful to The Quadrangle for being the reason I met all those amazing people and was able to put my journalism skills to use while in college.

Clubs are the backbone of Manhattan College, giving every student their opportunity to shine and grow. Every skill on my resume can be traced back to my work with a campus organization. I truly hope that everyone has the opportunity to have the experiences on campus that I have after four years and that anyone who thinks about joining The Quadrangle or any other club does so. Thank you to Grace Cardinal, Angelina Perez, Mack Olmstead, Isaiah Rosario, Brooke DellaRocco and Angelina Persaud, I trust The Quadrangle will be as good to you as it was to all of us seniors and will be safe in your hands.

Jocelyn Visnov

Staff Writer, Asst. Production Editor, Web Editor, Production Editor, Editor-in-Chief, Senior Writer

Before officially deciding to attend MC, I visited campus and sat in on a COMM class taught by Thom Gencarelli. Afterwards, we stuck around to discuss different clubs and opportunities MC had to offer, including The Quadrangle and The Quad Scholarship. It was later that day that I decided I would attend MC to study COMM and write for The Quadrangle.

Through all the changes of the last four years, The Quad is the one thing thats remained the same. Regardless of what else was going on, I had a community of friendly faces and a place to be every Tuesday at 4pm, whether in-person or online during COVID. As a freshman I remember feeling so intimidated by the seniors, in awe of their talent and dedication, hoping one day I could be as good as they were. Interviewing sources and writing stories introduced me to so many people and parts of campus life I would never have known otherwise, and I’m so grateful to have been trusted to tell their stories.

The Quad brought me to some of the most wonderful people I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. Adrianne and I spent nearly every Sunday morning together for two years doing production, yapping as we became InDesign pros. Kyla and I met via Zoom as freshman Quad scholars, then nearly two and a half years later, she showed me the ropes as I followed in her footsteps as EIC. Lauren became my go-to gal for all things web and social and always had my back. Jilleen Barrett ‘23 was randomly assigned my Quad mentor, and has since become a close friend and one of my favorite people to talk to. And finally, Thank you to Thom and Nick for always supporting The Quad and reminding us all that student journalism plays an essential role on college campuses.

Serving as Editor-in-Chief of The Quad is one of my proudest accomplishments. This role challenged and pushed me to grow as a leader and as a person in a way no classroom ever could. Being trusted with the responsibility to lead a group that meant so much to me was truly an honor and I’m incredibly grateful.

Thank you to this wonderful publication and the people in it for shaping my college experience. Keep doing journalism.

Kyla Guilfoil

senior Farewells

Staff Writer, Asst. News Editor, Editor-in-Chief, Sports Editor, Managing Editor, Senior Writer I came to Manhattan College with a dream I had held close for over a decade: I was going to move to New York City and be a writer. In an adolescence filled with selfdoubt, confusion and uncertainty of what would come next, that dream was the one thing that always stood firm. Manhattan College proved to be the place where I would make real strides in turning that dream into reality. But it wouldn’t have been possible without this newspaper.

I was named a Quad Scholar the summer I entered MC as a freshman--the first real moment I had where I said to myself, “I can do this.” I began writing for the paper the first week of school, and just never stopped. My mentor and incredible friend Anna Woods took a chance on me halfway through my freshman year, naming me assistant news editor. A year later, I would somehow find myself elected as The Quadrangle’s editor-in-chief. Being recognized as EIC sophomore year was the proudest moment of my life yet. I couldn’t believe that this staff believed in me to carry them through the year as their leader. I again was able to tell myself that perhaps my dream could really come true.

After four years with this paper, I’ve served as assistant news editor, editor-in-chief, sports editor, managing editor and, now, senior writer. The work I did at this paper enabled me to chase my dreams in this city I love so much. I will graduate having had opportunities to work and write at NBC News, CBS News, ABC News and POLITICO. None of those experiences could ever have been possible without this paper.

Thank you to Anna; to the incredible Cari McCarthy and Jilleen Barrett who pushed me, supported me and made me a better reporter ten times over; to Adrianne Hutto, a lifelong friend I wouldn’t have connected with without this paper; and to all of my fellow editors over the last four years. I am who I am today because of all of you. I leave this paper in the hands of Grace Cardinal, a spirited, determined and talented journalist who I am confident will navigate this newspaper into even more success in the months to come.

Thank you for giving me a place to blossom and to make my dreams come true. This newspaper will always be home.

Angelica Niedermeyer

Asst. Sports Editor, Features Editor, Senior Writer Dear Quad,

Wow, I can’t believe the time has come to write this farewell. I remember seeing the last seniors’ and feeling like it was so far away. Now, the time has come and I keep putting it off. Why must I say goodbye? You have taught me so much in the last four years, sorry to the communication department, but it will never measure up to any journalism class. I always remember being interviewed for The Quad my freshman year and immediately becoming intrigued. “I can do that,” I thought and I have been hooked ever since. The rush of having an idea, finding sources, and starting to see a story come together is like no other. Especially, when I fell in love with features: food, fun, profiles, what else could you want?

There’s nothing like having a fully running newsroom that publishes every week. Learning the ability to figure out trends around campus and how to conduct interviews and form all that into a cohesive story will be an immeasurable life skill. How I will miss the hot gossip sessions, jaw dropping spills, and even the long hours of forever bonding moments with assistants and editors. I want to thank you for giving me the opportunity and the confidence to walk into a new Riverdale restaurant, interview the staff, try the food, and sit down and write a 500 word review, all in a week. I dream of the days someone will pay me to try their food and write about it.

But for now, I want everyone to make sure The Quadrangle gets all the money they deserve. I hate that printing has become a thing of the past. I want the future newspaper enthusiasts to know the joy of smelling, reading, and holding a physical copy of your powerful words and sharing them with the school community, or mailing a physical copy to your extended family. For that reason, I will 100% be an alumni donor for The Quad and I look forward to reading a copy every now and then to see what the squad is up to. Will miss you the most. up down the road, I’m so glad I got to do journalism here first, with all of you.

Becca Kranich

Asst.

Social Media Editor, Social Media Editor

As a freshman, I had no idea about journalism at MC or The Quadrangle. When I joined during the Fall of my sophomore year, I was nervous and didn’t know how to get involved. Thanks to the guidance of writers from the Class of 2023, I found my second home in Kelly Commons 4.12. Standing here as a graduating senior, I would have never thought The Quadrangle would significantly impact my life. All of the students on The Quad are incredibly hard-working, and it has been a privilege to work alongside these amazing underclassmen. I am so proud to have served as your Social Media Editor, and I know you are in excellent hands with Mary Haley and those who follow. As a student body, we’ve weathered so many storms. From COVID-19 to budget cuts and layoffs, we have shown how strong we are. My time with The Quadrangle has shown me how vital student journalism is. In a time when student free speech is greatly limited, both in the U.S. and worldwide, writing and supporting local newspapers are crucial to understanding the truth. Thank you for the fantastic memories.

Lauren Marie Raziano

senior Farewells

Social Media Editor, Asst. Sports Editor, Multimedia Editor,

Copy Editor, Senior Writer

As a biology major, why would I want to write for my college’s newspaper?

It is because we cover important topics, about student’s perspectives on the COVID pandemic, academic struggles and wins, the lore of the Manhattan College library rifle range (yes, that used to exist), the new beer pong team (Triangle), and even students’ fashion finds.

My favorite article I have written was with my best friend, Adrianne Hutto, “An Beal Bocht: The Poor Mouth Bar Rich in Arts and Spirits.” Writing about a future version of ourselves, “Two locals sit at the corner of the bar, sharing laughs and hugs. When The Quadrangle asked them how they knew each other, they explained they had known each other for years.”

Writing over fifty articles during my time at The Quadrangle, I am proud of my digital footprint. Every article is representative of the relationships and friendships I have made in my life. From Gabriella DePinho matching me up with Anna Woods and taking on the role as assistant social media, to Anna Woods trusting me with the social media profiles, to Kyla Guilfoil and Jocelyn Visnov granting me many leadership roles of sports, copy editing, and business duties, I have learned to have a new love for journalism. To my fellow seniors, I am honored to have written alongside y’all these past four years.

In my future, I hope to combine my passion for science and pursue medical journalism. My interest in medical journalism is not only motivated by my personal curiosity but also a public need to establish trust in medicine.

I am most thankful for my family, my mom, dad, brother, sister, my grandparents and my too many to count cousins, aunts and uncles. I feel very fortunate for my education at Manhattan College and I am thankful for everything, every skill, and every friendship I have gained.

Zoe DeFazio

Staff Writer, Asst. Arts and

Entertainment

Editor, Web Editor, Senior Writer

My journey of being a journalist all stemmed from a broken bracelet. My grandfather always wore an evil eye pendant and when he passed away, I never saw that pendant again. During a family trip to Greece in August 2019 I was in awe of the number of evil eye jewelry and merchandise there was. I bought a bracelet in remembrance of my grandfather and I wore it everyday.

A few months later, the bracelet broke and the beads fell to the floor. I truly believed that I had lost the only thing I had left to remember my grandfather, but after the bell had rang I went to the art room and I saw my quirky pottery teacher who I adored. She took all the beads and re-bound my bracelet as tears streamed down my face. She asked me where I was going to college to distract me. At that point I genuinely had no idea. She looked at me and she told me that a woman of nature has to dream big and go big. She told me that I am an eloquent speaker and an amazing writer. She advised me to be a communication major and lean into journalism. In that moment, I always thought that was my grandfather telling me to write.

I applied to Manhattan College that very night and in a few short weeks I was accepted. The following week I received an email inviting me to apply for The Quadrangle scholarship. I kept my bracelet on the entire time I was writing a piece to demonstrate for my application. And sure enough, I became a scholarship recipient. Working for The Quadrangle has been one of the highlights of my time here at Manhattan College. I’m incredibly grateful to be surrounded by hardworking and driven people who have the same goals as me. I’m incredibly appreciative for every bit of knowledge I’ve learned throughout my four years here. I’m especially grateful to have been surrounded by those who have taught me more than what meets the eye with journalism. I’d like to give a special thank you to my freshman mentor, Nicole Fitzsimmons. In the face of grief, Nicole never lost sight of who she is and who she can be. I still hold all her advice very close to my heart and incorporate all the things I’ve learned from her in my own writing. She is who I aspire to be. A woman who never backs down and writes freely.

It is with a heavy heart that I must say goodbye to The Quadrangle. It has been a true honor. Congratulations to my fellow senior writers of The Quadrangle; I’m so happy to have had the chance to work with you all. I can’t wait to read what’s next.

Quad 10

THE QUAD TEN Q10

Kyla Guilfoil will leave Manhattan College behind with an unfillable footprint. In her time at the college, she has not only made record-breaking strides in D1 athletics, but in her academics and extracurricular activities as well.

A double major in political science and communication with a concentration in journalism, Guilfoil has made sure to get herself involved in every area possible on campus.

Past editor-in-chief of The Quadrangle, current editor-in-chief of Lotus, and senior captain of the women’s swim team are just a few of the titles she’s held in her four years at MC.

Jocelyn Visnov has definitely made her mark at Manhattan College in more ways than one by bringing her most authentic self into everything she does.

Coming to MC from a small suburban neighborhood in her hometown of Philadelphia, PA, she chose the college as a change of pace.

Visnov previously served as editor-in-chief of The Quadrangle during the 2022-2023 academic year where she was able to revitalize the connection with alumni by reinstating the JasperJist newsletter. She was also

James Washington III is a bubbly and personable senior exercise science major graduating as the undergraduate valedictorian of the class of 2024. Washington is an Army veteran and has been highly involved on campus in his time at the college.

Throughout his time at MC, Washington was involved in various organizations and honor societies, including serving as the veteran liaison between Student Government and the Veteran Success Center, and as president of Phi Epsilon Kappa

Pamela Moleri will graduate with the Manhattan College class of 2024 with an honors degree in biochemistry. Moleri, a first generation graduate, comes from Bergamo, a town outside of Milan, Italy. Moleri chose Manhattan College for its proximity to the city and small class sizes, but has been grateful for all the friends she has made during her four years here.

Using her language skills, she has worked as an Italian Lab Instructor

“The first two things, I think, in my Manhattan College identity that have stayed strong were being on The Quadrangle and being a swimmer,” Guilfoil said. “And I think those two are probably the most impactful in terms of shaping the type of people that I met at Manhattan and who I hung out with for a lot of my years here.”

One of the first of many projects Guilfoil would work on during her time at MC was with the WGRC on their women’s handbook project. The project focused on including an eating disorders and body image handbook, the first of its kind to become available as a resource to Man-

active in production for the paper and consistently had creative, entertaining ways of curating content for the publication.

“The Quad really shaped my college experience,” Visnov said. “It was just such an honor to be able to lead something that meant so much to me. Being trusted to lead was just really such an honor and just something that I enjoyed so much.”

Visnov has shown both her prowess for journalism as well as her expertise in advertising through her senior seminar presentation at the Eastern Communication Associa-

(PEK). Washington is also a student member of the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AHPERD). Among other things, Washington has also participated in planning campus retreats and has participated on multiple panels relating to identity and other topics.

A Yonkers native, Washington came to MC after serving in the military for eight years. At that time, he approached the Bronx VA about find-

since her freshman year. In her sophomore year, Moleri was a founding member of Alpha Pi Phi Mu Chapter and has since held the role of Treasurer and External Programing Officer and spearheaded the annual International Women’s Day event.

For the past three years, she has been a research fellow for the college studying chromatin and working to develop a new technique to better study it. She was a part of the Jasper Summer Re-

hattan College students.

“It was such an eye-opening thing for me and was something really cool that I was able to do that hopefully helped other people,” Guilfoil said.

On campus, Guilfoil is also a part of multiple honor societies. She was inducted to the 94th class of Pen & Sword, Epsilon Sigma Pi, Chi Alpha Sigma, Phi Beta Kappa, and Pi Sigma Alpha. She also currently holds the three school records for backstroke and is named in all five of the college’s relay records. At graduation, Guilfoil will be a recipient of the Ryan Medal for Government, the Medal for Excellence in Liber-

tion Conference. Specifically, she researched the impact of programmatic advertising and how it will be used in the future.

“I just felt like I worked really hard on my senior thesis and it was just something that was really interesting to me,” Visnov said. “So I love talking about it and exposing it to other people.”

Outside of her studies, she is also actively involved in Her Campus and LOTUS magazine where she was campus coordinator and assisted in layout, respectively. She was also inducted into the Pen & Sword honor society as

ing an undergraduate institution, at which point he toured and committed to Manhattan College’s exercise science program.

Being an older student, Washington had fears about coming back to school after taking a decade away. He said that despite his fears, Manhattan College has been a wonderful experience and the Veteran Success Center has helped him through it all.

“I wouldn’t say that it was a hard transition, because even if it was, there was something in place that would help me

search program in 2022 and the Kakos School of Science Summer Research Program in 2023.

In addition, Moleri is the vice-president of the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, attending their conferences in San Antonio and Seattle; Epsilon Sigma Pi; Sigma Psi, the research honors society, and Gamma Sigma Epsilon.

Moleri is most proud of having her research paper, “Unnatural Amino

al Arts and the Harold E. Hazelton Humanities Medal.

In her future, Guilfoil plans to find a full–time reporting role in the city.

“It’s my dream to keep telling stories truthfully, as cheesy as that sounds,” Guilfoil said. “I love this profession because of the stories that I get to tell and the impact that those stories may have. You get to see [that] real-life people are affected by these things happening all over the country. I hope I look back and I feel like I’ve done something that helps raise awareness and give voice to those people.”

well as Epsilon Sigma Pi and Lambda Pi Eta. Visnov shared a sentiment that can resonate with both current students and alumni: the Jasper community is unique and tight-knit in its own way.

“I feel like with all the changes The Quad has been the one consistent thing throughout all my years of college,” Visnov said. “The comm department has just done so much for me. I’ll miss the sense of community at Manhattan College. I feel like the community that we have here on campus isn’t like anywhere else.”

through that and it was the Veteran Success Center,” Washington said. “So as long as I had my community to go back to refresh, restock my thoughts give me feedback, I can always come out onto the main campus and I can be embraced a lot of the younger students and the faculty and anyone else.”

In his future, Washington plans to attend nursing school, with the ultimate goal of earning his doctorate. He encourages all students to participate and take advantage of the opportunities provided by Manhattan College.

Acid Crosslinking for Increased Spatiotemporal Resolution of Chromatin Dynamics,” published in 2023. In the Fall, Moleri is trading the East Coast for the West as she will attend University of California San Diego to pursue a Ph.D. in biochemistry and molecular biophysics. For Moleri, Manhattan College was the first step on track to becoming a professor and the first stop in an academic journey that will take her all over the world.

Kyla Guilfoil

Pamela Moleri

James Washington III

Jocelyn Visnov

Throughout her four years here, Brylee Watkins has managed to dip her toe into nearly every aspect of Manhattan College.

In May, Watkins will be graduating from MC with a degree in communication dually concentrated in public relations and media production, as well as a minor degree in film studies. Maybe most known for her academics, she has been admitted into Epsilon Sigma Pi, Phi Beta Kappa and Lambda Pi Eta, where she served as chapter president this past year. Additionally, she is an active member of Pen & Sword, the secret honor society at MC. Another one of her in-

Patrick Black, a civil engineering student at Manhattan College, has touched the hearts of everyone who has gotten to know him during his past four years at MC.

Black has been a part of many groups at MC and has held many different positions for the organizations he was a part of. He worked as a student ambassador for admissions, president of the American Society of Civil Engineering, vice president of the Structural Engineers of New York with the Structural Engineering Association of New York, and treasurer of Chi Epsilon, the civil engineering honor society on campus.

Along with it all, Black

Christopher Belden is graduating with a triple major in history, economics, and peace studies.

Over his four years at Manhattan College, he has held many essential campus roles including senator in the Manhattan College Senate, student representative on the Educational Affairs Committee (EAC), Jasper Summer Research Scholar and a leader on the Kairos retreat along with several L.O.V.E trips held by Campus Ministry and Social Action (CMSA).

Belden reflects on how his leadership roles throughout campus formed his views around his experience at Manhattan College. Belden’s most significant experi-

terests resides in MC’s PRSSA, where she served as recruitment coordinator and chapter president, which set her up for great opportunities in her future field of work. Additional clubs she is involved in include MC Players and MCTV.

When she’s not impressing in the classroom, you can probably find Watkins performing. Shining on the Manhattan College Dance Team for four consecutive years has brought her some of the most memorable moments of her college experience. While serving as the social media coordinator as well as the team coordinator in her time, Watkins along

kept up with his heavy workload as a civil engineer, and also maintained many lifelong friendships. His bubbly and welcoming personality made him the prime example of a light in the MC community. One of the things Black will miss most is the community he’s built as well as the traditions he loves.

“I have a tradition every Sunday, [my friends] will come over to my apartment will cook a big meal and we’ll just watch some sort of movie/television show, and then usually afterward, it ends with going to Jasper Deli and getting something,” Black said. “Being here through COVID, it definitely ties

ence that formulated this was his position as the assistant to the director of the Holocaust, Genocide, and Interfaith Education Center (HGI).

“People always think that the larger named colleges down the street are going to have a monopoly over opportunities in New York City,” Belden said. “However, through my work at HGI I quickly saw that it was not the case. I have had several fellowships and internships that have derived directly from my involvement on campus which has helped tremendously with networking from New York City to Washington, DC.”

Belden expressed that his time at Manhattan College, specifically while

with her teammates, were able to place 3rd overall in hip hop at this year’s NDA College Nationals in Daytona, FL.

Despite her neverending schedule, Watkins still finds time to work two jobs; one as an office assistant for the Office of Planned Giving, which deals with donor gifts and student scholarships, and the other as an RA in Horan Hall, where she is responsible for 68 residents.

“I’ve met some of the very best people in everything that I’ve been involved in, so I don’t regret being busy 24/7,” Watkins said. “I’ll sleep when I’m dead.”

With her future

you down more to campus so it feels like it’s a second home to me.”

After taking a break this summer, Black will continue his studies here in the fall for a master’s degree in structural engineering while he works at Turner Construction fulltime as an engineering assistant.

Black reflected on MC and the ways in which it prepared him for his future.

“The resources that I’ve had academically have definitely prepared me to think critically about any sort of task that I’m given in the field, but also just the connections professionally,” Black

working with Dr. Mehnaz Afridi, has expanded his passion for social justice initiatives and advocacy. One of his greatest accomplishments was his work with refugee and migrant rights. Not only did he start up Refugee Migrant Advocacy Week at Manhattan College, but he had also helped resettle a local Afghan refugee family and continued this work at his current internship with Catholic Charities. Christopher shared a quote that has inspired his commitment to service.

“I often think of a quote by historian Howard Zinn...that states ‘small acts when multiplied by billions of people can transform the world’,”

shining bright, she recently accepted an internship with Bryant Park on their digital media team, and mentioned her hopes at some point to work in PR events for film. Watkins emphasized how grateful she is for the opportunity and her support system that crafted much of her memories of her time at MC.

“So much bad was thrown our way, but the people that were at this school, my teammates, my friends, they always made it worth it at the end of the day,” Watkins said. “I wouldn’t change anything no matter how rough a year this has been, because it’s all been so wonderful.”

said. “It’s really helped me network in the area that I know a lot of people that I don’t think I would have if I didn’t come to Manhattan.”

MC also allowed Black to grow into the person he is today.

“I was very quiet when I came into college, but Manhattan definitely helped me kind of find a voice that I never knew I had,” he said.

Overall, Black has made quite an impact on the Manhattan College community. Every class, club, or job he has had, he has worked hard and proven to be an exceptional leader and representative of MC.

Belden said. “There is this idea that sometimes we think we are helpless in these huge international crises. However, we need to recognize international crises have local impacts and doing our small part on a local scale can go a long way.”

After commencement, Belden is planning on relocating to Washington D.C. to complete his MA in the School for International Service at American University (AU). This two-year program run by AU is considered a top 10 school for International Affairs. During his graduate period, Belden is hoping to find full-time work at a non-profit or law firm.

Patrick Black

Brylee Watkins

Christopher Belden

Quad 10

THE QUAD TEN Q10

Laurah Perrin will graduate Manhattan College leaving a lasting impact both on the school and students and friends she’s leaving behind.

Perrin has committed herself to being an extremely active part of campus, with her being a part of the track and field team, a co-president of Black Student Union (BSU), diversity chair for the student athlete advisory committee (SAAC), and president of Pen & Sword. She has undeniably made a name for herself around campus, and credits her extracurriculars for helping her grow as a student.

“My involvement [in extracurriculars] has al-

Emily Gianni is graduating with a double major in childhood special education and English with an upward extension.

Over her four years at Manhattan College, she has held many essential campus roles including being a resident’s assistant (RA) in Lee Hall, VP of academic development in Sigma Delta Tau (SDT), secretary of Kappa Delta Pi, VP of residential affairs and Cheer team captain.

In addition, Gianni has had various campus employment opportunities with Student Engagement and Residence Life.

Gianni’s time within SDT acted as a special beacon within her

Lauren Marie Raziano’s impact on Manhattan College has not gone unnoticed by her peers. Since freshman year, Raziano has been a part of The Quadrangle taking on many positions such as social media editor, assistant sports editor, copy editor and multimedia editor. She also has been a part of the Lotus Magazine as the art director. For the last three years Raziano has been a part of the Student Government Association (SGA). In the past, she was the vice president of her sophomore class and held a position on the SGA’s executive board for the

lowed me to not only help and showcase to others the importance of directing and bringing awareness of certain issues across campus as well as helping spearhead initiatives to help resolve them, but it has also allowed me to gain a diverse perspective on the experiences of others and learn from them as well,” Perrin said. “This has shaped me as a better student by allowing me to appreciate the hard work of others and share the camaraderie of development, leadership, growth and community with my peers as well.”

With being such a well-rounded student comes great academic

four years at Manhattan College which she is extremely proud of.

“My leadership positions and opportunities in SDT were the most significant part of my college experience,” Gianni said. “It [SDT] gave me so much confidence and truly allowed me to grow into the person I wanted to be while supporting becoming who I am today.”

Gianni expressed how the education department has fostered her success along with preparing her for the future. She felt constant support from the faculty she was placed with and feels extremely grateful to be placed at amazing schools for her student teaching experi-

2022-2023 academic year. In this role, she served as vice president of club administration where she had a budget of over $400,000 to disperse among the college clubs. While working on The Quadrangle, Raziano won a Catholic Media Award for 2022, along with her co-writer, Jilleen Barrett.

As of this past year she was the vice president of the senior class. This academic year, Raziano worked at the Center for Academic Success, and became president of Alpha Epsilon Delta, which is the pre health honor society at MC. As pres-

achievement. Proving this is Perrin’s induction to Epsilon Sigma Pi this past fall semester.

“As a student and athlete, being able to balance and commit to the tasking obligations of both over these four years has been rewarding and difficult,” Perrin said. “Being in tune with the discipline of having a conscientious outlook on how I devote myself to my academics as well as my responsibilities with athletics, I think speaks in of itself to having the privilege of being honored as an inductee.”

Perrin has dealt with her fair share of setbacks during her four years at the college, including an

ences.

Gianni felt as if she had left her mark on Manhattan College most through the freshmen that lived on her floor within Lee Hall.

“I just loved being an RA to the freshman in the Arches Program,” Gianni said. “I feel as if I have been able to shape their year through supporting and listening to them and having that system is very important, especially throughout their first year.”

After commencement, Gianni will be attending graduate school at Manhattan College, studying special education under some of her favorite professors in the community that she has loved for the

ident she oversees seven different board members, as well as 26 active members.

Raziano loves getting involved on campus, whether it’s planning events like the senior formal or being an active member of the Sigma Delta Tau sorority, she is glad to bring enjoyment to the campus. Additionally, Raziano conducts genetic research in the biology department working with mitochondrial and chloroplast DNA.

Raziano reflects on her last four years at the college and is thankful for attending the institution.

injury that led to a halt in her athletic career and which required two surgeries to recover from. Despite this, Perrin remained strong in her recovery, and was able to return to the track for her senior year. At the 2024 Jaspy’s, Perrin was awarded the “Comeback Player of the Year,” award, a true testament to her perseverance during these tough times.

Throughout her time at Manhattan College, Perrin has been a star both on the track and off it, and has been a great figure to look up to for students all over campus.

past four years. Additionally, she hopes to gain a graduate assistant position. In the future, she hopes to have a classroom of her own.

Gianni shared some advice with current Manhattan College students.

“Put yourself out there and do everything you possibly can,” Gianni said. “I just tried on my cap and gown and realized that I will never be in college again with the same group of students I came in with four years ago. So, use this time to create your best friends, find out who you are, do as much as you can and have fun while doing it.”

“I’m really grateful for my education here at Manhattan College,” Raziano said. “I really think the value is worth it. I am really grateful for my education in Manhattan College and all the relationships I’ve made. I really feel that I’ve been able to be myself, and grow to be a better person here. I think it’s really a nice place. It’s not always easy, but if you know how to utilize the resources available, you’re able to succeed. I truly believe that and I do a lot of things and I love it all. I’m very grateful that a place like this allows me to be myself and do what I want.

Laurah Perrin

Lauren Marie Raziano

Emily Gianni

“Autism Dreams” Fundraiser by Delta Kappa Epsilon Raises Funds for Autism Awareness

Emmanouel Sofillas

Asst. Sports Editor

In a demonstration of solidarity and compassion, the brothers of Delta Kappa Epsilon (DKE) at Manhattan College organized a fundraiser dedicated to raising awareness and funds for Autism Dreams. The inspiration behind this event stemmed from a personal connection, as one of the fraternity members has a sibling with autism.

The event, held on Jaspers Wellness Day, went beyond just raising money. It turned into a lively celebration of including everyone and understanding each other. With a table full of sweets and an exciting atmosphere all around, the event became a symbol of hope for people and families dealing with autism.

Anthony Behpour, whose brother has autism, served as the catalyst for the fundraiser and spoke about the importance of raising awareness.

“The fundraising was for Autism Dreams, which is a charity that was started about four years ago by my mom,” Behpour said. “We used to raise a lot of money for Autism Speaks because my brother has autism, and then we were raising so much money we decided to start our own [charity]. We raise money for children with autism that aren’t able to afford extracurricular activities like camp, horseback riding, swimming, things like that, because that’s what would help my brother.”

The fundraiser was able to raise a total of $280 to contribute towards autism awareness. The fundraising event left an impact on the fraternity, allowing for memorable moments.

“The most memorable

moment has got to be when my brother showed up,” Behpour said. “He’s 17 now and he’s just one of the most talkative people you’ll ever meet. He loves schools and buildings, so he was just walking around saying hi to everyone.”

Brendan Byrne, a member of DKE who helped at the fundraiser, also shared his most memorable moment of the event.

“Just getting people in and being able to tell them that it’s for a good cause,” Byrne said. “For example, there were two people that came up to us and were like, ‘what is this for?’ and being able to explain that we’re not just a table sitting here, and

that it’s going to a very good foundation.”

Sean Mannion, another member of DKE who helped at the fundraiser, shared why philanthropy was important to him and the fraternity.

“I feel like as a group, we love giving back,” Mannion said. “Especially because it just feels good to give back to people. So whenever we’re able to give back to people that are a little less fortunate than us, being able to help them out always brings a smile to me and a lot of people, and that’s why we constantly always do it.”

Jake Steinweiss, the president of DKE, shared the fraternity’s goals for the event

and described how everything fell into place.

“Whenever we’re presented with any sort of philanthropy event, we tend to just want to raise money for it,” Steinweiss said. “So just like any other event, we wanted to raise money, and we did so. Our goal was a bake sale for this event with cookies, and donuts and sold them on the quad and all proceeds went to autism awareness.”

The fraternity also discussed future philanthropic events that they plan to host for various causes next semester.

“We have the breast cancer walk in October, the buddy walk for down syndrome,”

Steinweiss said. “We’re going to do a lifting competition at the Manhattan Fitness Center for men’s mental health, so there’s a lot planned for the upcoming semester and those are a lot of fun events for a good cause.”

The success of “Autism Dreams” shows how even small fundraisers can make a big difference by raising awareness and promoting inclusion. As they keep working to help others and speak up for important causes, the brothers of DKE show how kindness and community involvement can make a change.

DKE at the quad autism fundraiser. EMMANOUEL SOFILLAS/COURTESY

Features

MC Students Share Plans for Summer and Beyond

Maizy Swift and Mary Haley

Production Editor/Asst. A&E Editor and Social Media Editor/ Asst. Features Editor

This summer, Manhattan College students have plans for their futures with many seniors soon to start their upcoming careers.

Ava Cruz, a senior biology major, has a job lined up for after graduation.

“I actually just received a job offer from Massachusetts General Hospital in their psychiatric outpatient unit,” Cruz said. “I’m going to be a clinical research coordinator for a minimum of two years, but while I’m there, there’s a joint program between the MGH Institute and Harvard Medical School. I’m going to be going there in the fall to take classes to become a psychiatric nurse practitioner.”

At her job, Cruz will be studying the genetic components of autism. She has aspirations for her career to help neurodivergent people and better understand autism.

“I just want to make sure that people who might have different neurodevelopmental conditions get the best quality of life, because in the past you see a lot of limitations that are set on these individuals,” Cruz said. “They’re human beings and they deserve just as much and they have a lot of cool capabilities that a lot of us don’t have, so that’s always been my dream.”

As Cruz begins working, she will have her younger brother and inspiration by her side.

“My younger brother, he’s on the autism spectrum so he’s been my biggest inspiration, he is very minimally verbal, but he’s been going there for a long time so it’s really cool that sometimes he’ll get to be there,” Cruz said.

Billy Connors, another senior graduating this spring, told The Quadrangle how he is continuing his internship with Andersen Tax, where he will be working in Midtown Manhattan this summer to lead into his full-time position starting in 2025.

Connors will be working in their private accounting solutions group, where he does

accounting functions for highnet-worth clients and provides advisory services for clients based on their information. Connors started his relationship with Andersen in January of 2023 when he started interning for their group. He credited his education in accounting at Manhattan College and clubs like the accounting society and Beta Alpha Psi for getting his connection to Andersen.

“Through Beta Alpha Psi, I was able to network with a partner at Andersen who heavily recruits from Manhattan College,” Connors said. “I really do owe it all to Manhattan College, and I feel well prepared through my education here. I am sad to leave [the college] but I am also excited for where I am going.”

Although graduating soon from his undergraduate career feels bittersweet for Connors, he is working to get his masters degree at Manhattan College to further his knowledge in the accounting field.

While many seniors are getting ready to pursue their Manhattan College educations professionally, underclassmen are getting started as well. Sophomore finance and

at ICICI Bank in Toronto this summer.

CARA LOGANADHAN/COURTESY

global business major, Cara Loganadhan, has a packed schedule this summer as she is preparing for her internship at ICICI Bank Canada, where she will be organizing data and market research at their offices in Toronto.

“It is an Indian multinational bank in Toronto, and the premise of the job is two different things,” Loganadhan said. “I help with data entry and data analysis. They [deal with] a lot of loans, so I organize all the data for that. I also do market research for getting new customers for buying bonds and banking.”

As a sophomore, Loganadhan explained how she realized many of the recruiters for business internships were looking mainly for juniors and seniors to take on these roles, yet she still wanted to get her foot in the door of experience in professional and international business.

“A lot of finance jobs want juniors and seniors, so it was really hard to find this job,”

Loganhadan said. “Through applying, I had to reach out to family members and ask them, ‘do you know anyone that works in banking, and could you help with an internship?’ And my uncle actually knew someone that worked at the bank. I also worked with [human resources] to get the job, so I was also pretty lucky because my uncle was helping me out in that sense.”

Loganadhan is excited to learn more about her field this summer, outside of the academic world.

“I feel like finance is easier to learn hands-on than from a book,” Loganadhan said. “I am excited to learn in that sense. In terms of global business, in the future I want to do something somewhat international. The bank I am working with is headquartered in India, but they have a subsidiary in Canada, so it is cool because it has a global aspect because I will also get to hear from their Indian headquarters.”

Cara Loganadhan, sophomore global business and finance major, is interning

Ava Cruz ‘24 plans to take classes at Harvard Medical School while also working at Massachusetts General Hospital to pursue her career to be a psychiatric nurse practitioner.

Matthew Schule Staff Writer

The Manhattan College Players delivered a moving production of Dogfight this past weekend for their annual spring musical that tells a coming-of-age story set in the early 1960s, on the eve of soldiers being shipped off to fight in the Vietnam War.

The plot revolves around the story of a young marine named Eddie Birdlace, played by sophomore Aaron Schoepf, and his fellow marines having a dogfight. In this competition, each man tries to find and bring the ugliest date to a party with the incentive of winning a large cash prize.

Eddie finds a waitress and aspiring musician named Rose as his date for the dogfight. Rose was played by junior Jill Tuthill. Her performance of the character provided emotional moments in the musical, especially with her song at the end of the first act, “Pretty Funny.”

Eddie begins to feel conflicted about his treatment of Rose and for using her as his date for the dogfight as

he learns more about her as their evening progresses. The dynamic of their relationship is altered even further in light of Eddie’s soon departure from San Francisco to Vietnam, and Eddie has to choose between loyalty to his fellow marines and country and the compassion and love he feels for Rose.

Schoepf and Tuthill displayed great chemistry on stage together as a duo and gave an incredible performance for their audience during their duet during “First Date/Last Night.”

One of Eddie’s friends and fellow marines named Bernstein, played by junior education major Landen Scofield, shared that he had a lot of fun doing the show and playing a complex character.

He told The Quadrangle that he worked hard to bring that character from script to stage.

“I had a lot of fun doing the show,” Scofield said. “I got to play a very complex character and try to get the idea behind him.”

Scofield also showed his incredible singing skills alongside Schoepf and freshman Malcolm Naughton,

who played Boland in their song “Hometown Hero’s Ticker Tape Parade.”

President of Players and assistant director of the musical Tess Nunan told The Quadrangle about the challenges the production faced with a limited budget compared to previous years. However, she believed that didn’t stop them from using every aspect of the theater to create a deeply moving show.

“I think the subject matter of Dogfight lends itself to a more intimate space,” Nunan said. “So things worked out for the best, and I’m just so proud of everyone.”

The set design and lighting were instrumental in creating the atmosphere for the show, and TJ Perez, stage manager and lighting designer, was responsible.

“This was my third or fourth show running lights,” Perez said. “It’s my last musical here as I’m graduating in the spring, and I had a great time doing it.”

The Players’ members include some of Manhattan College’s most talented performers, and they certainly showcased the group’s wide range of abilities through

Dogfight. These actors and actresses ‘ outstanding performances negated the seemingly small size of the Black Box theater.

Nunan put it best with her final remarks.

“I’ve seen the show about twelve times at this point, but I’m not tired of it,” Nunan said.

JasperJams:SoLong,Suckers!

Anna Segota Staff Writer

Well, it’s that time of year when dorms are packed up, and campus goes empty as students return to their faroff homes. Or, if you’re better than everyone else, you have a short subway ride back to your folk’s place as you spend your summer at home in the Big Apple itself. It’s true, born and raised New Yorkers are the best people on the planet. Transplants can try, but they’ll never quite get that certain “je ne sais quoi.” While the rest of you are rotting back in Ohio or whatever strange lands exist beyond the city limits, you can find me enjoying the beauty of a NY summer and basking in my narcissism. So long, suckers!

Brooklyn Baby by Lana Del Rey

Yes, Lana is better than you because she was born in New York. While the singer loses points for growing up in Lake Placid, Lana was born in Manhattan and lived there

for the first year of her life. After high school, she lived on Long Island with her aunt and uncle and started her music career singing in bars and clubs in Brooklyn. She also attended Fordham for a brief period, where she majored in philosophy. Regardless, you are automatically cooler than your boyfriend if he’s not from the metro area.

Rapp Snitch Knishes by MF Doom and Mr. Fantastik

The illest villain himself was raised on Long Island and presumably his mysterious ally, Mr. Fantastik. While little is known about Doom, and even less about Fantastik, on this track, they assure listeners that “true to ski mask, New York’s [their] origin.”

Hypnotize by The Notorious B.I.G.

It would be morally wrong to make this playlist and leave out Mr. Biggie Smalls himself. This song is what it feels like to step into a wonderfully airconditioned subway car after sweating your butt off while running in the park. You’re

supposed to be getting into shape, but surely some Ralph’s wouldn’t hurt, especially on a day as hot as today.

Uptown Girl by Billy Joel

Another New York icon, Billy Joel, always reminds me of summer, the beach, and the wonderful fact that we live on a series of islands, so the ocean is never far away. Listening to this track, I can feel the sun on my face and the water lapping at my feet. Apologies to all the poor souls who live in landlocked states. It could never be me.

Summer Wind by Frank Sinatra

Food festivals are a staple of a NY summer. While the Queens Night Market is popular, the best cuisine can be found in the parking lot of a church next to a hastily assembled Ferris wheel that definitely cannot be safe to ride. When I die, my happiest memories will be of fluffy zeppoles, sausage and pepper roles, and a band of old men playing Frank Sinatra.

Gasolina by Daddy

Yankee

Picture this: it’s early evening, the day was sweltering but a light breeze has finally picked up. You’re in flip-flops, and suddenly you find yourself running faster than your poor shoes can keep up with. You dodge tables covered in food and small children as you approach the DJ booth. Finally, you arrive, and locking eyes with your best friend, go nuts to the best block party song of all time.

Jenny from the Block by Jennifer Lopez

While JLo’s New Yorker card is in question, her iconic track will remain in summer playlist rotation for many years. Nothing is better for fighting off the heat than a nice cold beverage from the bodega or deli (still not sure what orange drink she was talking about).

Mrs. Robinson by Simon and Garfunkel

Ending on a calm note, you’ll hear this song at the end of summer. Your mother plays it while she cleans the kitchen, the first tendrils of

Autumn cold reaching out through the open window and making you shiver. All the tourists are leaving, but the transplants are coming back. Like the summer, New York always feels like it’s burning up. Nobody knows what it’s like to have a hometown that is constantly destroyed and built back up. You never want to leave, yet you’re unsure if this is your home anymore. The corner shop that’s been open since before you were born was bought out and the old sign has been replaced with pink neon and an Instagram-able grass wall at the back. Nothing stays the same, yet nothing changes. New York isn’t real, a place not bound by anything, constantly evolving into something new. It’s strange to be born and grow up here. To be so lucky, yet so unfortunate. To own everything, the place people dream of, and yet nothing, as the place you dream of can never be brought back. Like this song, it’s bitter-sweet, like the end of summer.

Enjoy your summer, and see you in the fall.

Aaron Schoepf, Landen Scofield, and Malcom Naughton. MATTHEW SCHULE / COURTESY

Time For StudentAthletes to Ride “The 1 Train Collective” Train

Isaiah Rosario Sports Editor

Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) has taken over the collegiate sports world since its approval in 2021. Now, Manhattan College athletes will be able to have the full experience of NIL with the introduction of The 1 Train Collective.

The name of the collective comes from desiring to pay homage to the infamous 1 train. While there are a couple of public transportation buses near campus, the majority of students use the 1 train as it allows them to travel into Manhattan without having to deal with any transfers.

According to the NSCA, NIL allows student-athletes to make an, “Arrangement between a student-athlete and a third party, such as a brand, company or individual, where the student-athlete receives compensation for the use of their name, image and likeness.”

In this specific circumstance, it refers to a collective. NSCA defines NIL collectives as, “Support networks for college athletes where donors pool together money to compensate athletes for their name, image and likeness. These independent organizations generate NIL deals for athletes at specific schools while operating separately from the schools themselves.”

“The 1 Train Collective” was started by MC alum Brendan O’Brien ‘97. O’Brien was a basketball studentathlete at the college and averaged 5.7 points per game on 41% shooting, 2.8 rebounds

per game, and 0.6 assists.

“We are proud to create Manhattan College’s first NIL collective to assist the college and its student-athletes,”

O’Brien said in an article on GoJaspers. “Our first step will be to initially focus upon men’s basketball with the intent that this provides a successful model for all of our athletic teams.”

This collective looks to jump-start recruiting for Jasper head coach John Gallagher as a couple of key names from the Jaspers have entered the transfer portal. Those included in the portal are Seydou Traore, Daniel Rouzan, Briggs McClain, Rokas Jocys and Bryce Stokes.

This collective could change the way the basketball players completely look at NIL. Additionally, this collective can put MC basketball on the map and the athletics department at MC believe it can do big things for the program.

“I think obviously it’s a positive for the program,” guard Brett Rumpel said. “With all the schools using NIL, it’s a big part of recruiting. Us having it definitely helps us bring in better players and it’s just overall great for the program.”

Along with O’Brien being the head of this collective, he has an advisory board containing fellow MC alum. The list includes Bob Bynes ‘68, Chris Hughes ‘74, Tom Lindgren ‘78 and Kevin Monaghan ‘77. Byrnes was a member of Jaspers’ club football team, Lindgren was a member of the men’s soccer team and Monaghan served as a sports information officer for MC.

In a press release from GoJaspers, they stated that the mission of The 1 Train

Collective was to enhance the Manhattan College studentbody experience and empower student-athletes to, “maximize their potential,” by offering NIL opportunities to the college’s community.

The initiative from alum was something that garnered praise within the basketball program. Andrew Wisniewski, director of player development for the men’s basketball program, spoke highly of the collective and spoke about how the men’s program needs support from the alumni to be able to be successful.

“I think it’s great,” Wisniewski said. “It’s the way the game is moving. I think it’s exciting for us that we got alumni and people that want to get behind it and kind of see where it’s going and that we need support. Without that support right now, you’re kind of fighting from a different

perspective than you were 10 years ago. When you’re recruiting against other schools that sometimes can offer something that you can’t, you start your battle a little more uphill than you really want to be battling up that hill … at the moment right now, I think what our alumni have done has been amazing. They’re trying to step up.”

The college’s president, Milo Riverso, was just as grateful for the initiative by alum. Riverso is an alumnus of the school who received his bachelor of engineering in 1981 from MC.

“Manhattan College has been blessed with passionate and generous alumni and this innovative ‘The 1 Train Collective’ is yet another proactive example of how they continue to support our mission and students,” Riverso said in an article posted on the

GoJapers website. “My thanks to everyone involved in this initiative.”

Manhattan College’s director of athletics who joined the college in the fall, is also appreciative of the new collective for Jasper athletes. She also hopes that this new collective at MC will be a top destination for future studentathletes interested in playing in New York City.

“Manhattan College is appreciative of our alumni who have engineered this pivotal The 1 Train Collective,” Irma Garcia said in the article. “College sports have dramatically changed in recent years, and this collective provides support for our student-athletes and underscores Manhattan College’s position as a top destination for student-athletes interested in studying and competing in New York City.”

Manhattan College Athletics Announces The 1 Train Collective NIL Collective, Backed by Jasper Alumni, Brendan O’Brien 97’. WVUA 23 / COURTESY

Basile Wins It for Manhattan in an All-Time Classic

Isaiah Rosario Sports Editor

The Jaspers’ quarterfinal game against Quinnipiac was a game that looked straight out of a movie in Saturday’s victory for the Manhattan College men’s lacrosse team.

In the last matchup between the two programs, it was a close, high-scoring game with the Jaspers coming on top 15-12, so fans knew they would be in store for quite a matchup.

From the start of the game, it looked like Manhattan would take full control as they took an early 3-0 lead but that would change quite quickly. After the scorching hot start for the Jaspers, they began to be ice cold as the Bobcats went on to score 7 unanswered goals to make the score 7-3.

The game would quickly seem out of reach for the Jaspers as the fans were silent and the team was staggered.

At times it felt like a Bobcats home game while their fans seemed to be cheering every single minute as they had something new to root for in addition to John DeLucia scoring his second goal. Hearts began to break with five minutes to go in the third as it looked like a comeback for the Jaspers may not be feasible, but contradictory to everyone’s beliefs, it most certainly was.

With two and a half minutes left, the defense and offense locked in as Liam Peabody scored for the Jaspers to make the score 6-11. Following him was a goal by Kelly DuPree to make the score 7-11. While looking up at the scoreboard, fans quickly realized it was only a four-goal game heading into the fourth quarter. The game was back in reach, and not over yet.

Soon it was a one-goal game after a goal from Scott O’Connor. Gaelic Park was rocking with fans on their feet and accepted students and their parents watching on their phones - all rooting for one cause, a Jasper comeback story.

The Jasper comeback was officially completed when DuPree tied the game at 11. There was a sense of relief in

the air as no one wanted senior and graduate players’ last game to be a blowout and have their last two MAAC tournament games be opening-round losses.

Hearts dropped at Gaelic when fans thought the comeback may be crushed when Evan Perry scored to put the Bobcats up one, but the Jaspers rallied back to score two goals in less than a minute to put them up one with 1:23 left to go in the game.

The Bobcats were not going to give up easily - Ryan Donnery scored the equalizer with less than a minute to go.

With the possibility of overtime looming, James Basile took the game into his hands and made sure overtime would not happen. Basile scored with six seconds to go with an assist from Drew Hiner to win the game 14-13.

Gaelic erupted in thunder with Jasper fans knowing they were moving on to play their next game against the Long Island University Sharks.

James Basile spoke with

The Quadrangle following his game-winning goal.

“I didn’t have my best shooting day by any means but our defense came up with clutch stops,” Basile said. “James Hogan was unbelievable all day giving us the ball which just kept on leading to more and more opportunities and my buddy Drew Hinder found me inside. I turned, shot, and I scored so it was a great feeling.”

From the time the game was 5-11, the Jaspers went on a 9-2 run to solidify the win. The offensive and defense were able to pick up the slack from the first couple of quarters. In the first couple of quarters, the defense looked sloppy giving Quinnipiac anything they wanted but locked in to secure the win.

“It’s no quit,” goalkeeper Connor Hapward said. “We say it all the time and just gotta be up by one at the end of the game. We never faltered. 55 James Hogan was crushing it at the faceoff. The best defense is not playing defense.

That guy got us the ball every possession. Our defense just never wavered. We just like to keep going hard. Keep getting hands on, keep pressuring them and we knew our offense would get it done and they did.”

This win for the Jaspers showed their heart, resilience and determination to not to give up in challenging games like this. No matter how big their deficit may have been, they believed that they were still in it.

“[Quinnipiac] came out after we went up three zip. They came out in a zone, kind of shut us down for a little bit,” Quinn Bower said. “This team’s got no quit and we got a lot of adversity. We faced it all year, and we bounced back and got the W. I think it shows a lot about what this team is about, a lot about what our culture is about. We’re ready to get the next one.”

A couple of weeks back, the Jaspers lost a difficult game to Siena. Head coach Doug Sage and his squad made sure to take lessons from that game and

use them in this quarterfinal matchup.

“This is who we are as a program and as a school,” Sage said. “It’s a little grittier here in the Bronx, that’s who we are. Two weeks ago, we lost a tough one to Siena and we let up four goals in 47 seconds … I think that was a tough life lesson that we learned as a program. For us, we just keep working and keep grinding. We know good things will come if you just keep working and staying together. For us, we just have to keep the faith, keep believing and we’ll be alright, win or lose. We have a great group of guys that support each other and do everything together.”

With this win, Gaelic Park will now host the semifinals and finals of the MAAC Championships. Despite Sacred Heart joining the MAAC in 2024-25, they, along with LIU, are unable to host the semi-finals and finals due to those programs not being full member institutions in the MAAC. The semifinal matchup with LIU is set for Thursday.

James Basile celebrating after his game-winning goal against Quinnipiac. GOJASPERS.COM / COURTESY