the Quadrangle THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF MANHATTAN COLLEGE | SINCE 1924
Volume XCVI, Issue 6
OCTOBER 3, 2017
www.mcquad.org
columbus day bill tabled by mc senate after tense debate OPPONENTS QUESTION GERACI’S RIGHT TO MAKE PROPOSAL Jeremy Loffredo Staff Writer
Scholars’ Showcase
Senior Summer Research Scholar Daniel Dixon discussed the findings of his research last Friday on Research Scholars Presentation Day in Kelly Commons. FULL STORY ON PAGE 6. PHOTO BY PATRICK FACCAS/ COURTESY
Kornutik, Owens Claim Freshman Student Government Spots RikkiLynn Shields Editor
The class of 2021 has voted, and Jack Kornutik and Grace Owens have been elected this year’s Freshman Vice Presidents. Though they come from two drastically different states, Jack Kornutik from Fairfield, Conn., and Grace Owens from Tampa, Fla., the two students share a love for Manhattan College like no other. Kornutik is an undecided business major and also a member of the men’s lacrosse team here at Manhattan. “Since the first day I stepped foot on campus, I wanted to attend Manhattan College; it had everything I was looking for. The academic criteria met all
IN NEWS:
Patterson Scholars announced on p. 3
my needs and the location of thecampus was second to none. Also, I was fortunate enough to be recruited by Coach [Drew] Kelleher and his staff to play on the Men’s Lacrosse team here. He guided me through my admissions process and helped make sure that I would be able to maintain a healthy balance between academics and athletics while still having a social life,” Kornutik said. Owens, a biology major, has a very similar story to Kornutik. While Manhattan had everything she wanted, lacrosse brought her to the college as well. “I chose Manhattan College because of its close proximity to New York City. I feel like the connections I will make here will help me in the future when
applying for internships and jobs. Another factor that influenced my decision to attend Manhattan was the fact that I was re-cruited to play lacrosse here,” Owens said. While the two students only have a month of college behind them, both of their experi-ences so far have been exactly what they imagined. “I love Manhattan College. I am really looking forward to the four years that I will spend here. I am really connecting with a lot of the people here and I enjoy the fact that I have met people from so many different places and so many walks of life. I have felt a strong sense of community at this school which I hope to help keep for my class the next four years,” Owens said.
Robert M. Geraci, Ph.D., chair of the religious studies department, recently brought a motion before the Manhattan College Senate proposing that the college no longer recognize Columbus Day as a campuswide holiday, replacing it with Election Day. The proposal, which was brought before the Senate at its first meeting of the semester on Sept. 19, was met with a fervent opposition that tested the boundaries of the Senate’s decorum. After concluding its routine business, including the approval of the previous session’s minutes and an address by College President Brennan P. O’Donnell, Ph.D., on the state of the college, the Senate’s agenda turned its attention to Geraci’s proposal. Michael McEneney ’53, the sole alumni representative on the Senate, motioned for the delay of the topic’s debate to the October meeting. Student Senator Chris Cacciavillani, who attended the senate meeting, said that “[Senator McEneney] was basically trying to kibosh [Geraci’s proposal], before the conversation had even taken place.” Regarding the issue, Geraci revealed his personal belief that the motion countering his proposal was an attempt to postpone debate of the subject indefinitely. It was at this moment that the meeting’s overall mood, as described by Caccaivillani, became “tense.” McEneney was overruled by Senate Speaker Nuwan Jayawickreme, Ph.D., of the psychology department, who had brought Geraci’s proposal to the floor.
According to a later interview with Jayawickreme, he shot back at McKiernan, saying, “You can’t do that,” in response to McEneney’s motion. Geraci then read from his proposal. According to a later email from Geraci, his motives for this proposal include simplifying the academic calendar, and alleviating the controversy surrounding the imperial and genocidal legacy of Christopher Columbus. “Any historically accurate understanding of Columbus knows he didn’t just maybe do some bad things; he was actively engaged in slavery, as well as rapine and genocidal behavior,” Geraci wrote. “Defending him as having done good things (whatever those may be remain conveniently unsaid!) is a lot like saying there are ‘very fine people’ among the Neo-Nazi community.” His remarks were met with unexpected retorts by some members of the Senate. According to three sources at the meeting, including Geraci, Caccaivillani and senior student senator Ryan Quattromani, Senator Margaret McKiernan said she felt blindsided by the proposal and did not know a vote on such a proposal was happening. McKiernan is a staff representative and library assistant. McKiernan went on to challenge Geraci’s ability to propose such a concept. McKiernan asserted that Geraci’s twelve years serving on the faculty disqualify him, because she and other members of the Senate have been members of the college community for much longer - in McKiernan’s case, some thirtyfive years. “[McKiernan’s comment was] presented in a disrespect-
__________________________
__________________________
Continued on Page 3
Continued on Page 4
IN A&E:
Meet the new faces of Scatterbomb on p. 8
IN FEATURES: MC celebrates Latino Heritage Month on p. 5
IN SPORTS:
Two athletes do Jaspers Talk on p. 11
Opinion & Editorials
2
the Quadrangle Volume XCVI, Issue 6 OCTOBER 3, 2017
LET T ER TO
The Editor
The Editorial Board
Stephen Zubrycky Editor in Chief Jack Melanson News Editor
Haley Burnside Joseph Liggio Asst. News Editors
Ally Hutzler Features Editor Managing Editor
Megan Dreher Asst. Features Editor
Taylor Brethauer Arts & Entertainment Editor Managing Editor
Rose Brennan Asst. Arts & Entertainment Editor
RikkiLynn Shields Sports Editor
Charles Lippolis Asst. Sports Editor
Tara Marin Social Media Editor
Catherine Goodyear Asst. Social Media Editor
Aaron Mayorga Photography Editor
Anja Pollozi Asst. Photography Editor
Alyssa Velazquez Production Editor
Abbi Kirollos Asst. Production Editor
Victoria Hernandez Morales Multimedia Editor August Kissel Daniel Molina Web Editors Thomas Callahan Faculty Advisor About The Quadrangle A tradition since 1924, The Quadrangle is a news or ganization 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. Connect with The Quadrangle
mcquad.org @mcquad @the_quadrangle mcquad
THE QUADRANGLE
LOIS HARR writes: To the Editor, Thank you for the story about the work of our Muslim Chaplain, Sheikh Samer Alraey(September 26, 2017).We are fortunate to have him as a part of our campus community working with our Muslim students. I learned more about him and his early life as a result of your story. Your readers also need to know that while Sheikh Samer began as a volunteer, he does receive modest compensation from the College. Thank you again for highlighting this interesting aspect of the spiritual offerings CMSA strives to provide our students. Sincerely, Lois Harr LOIS HARR is the director of campus ministry and social action and an adjunct professor of religious studies at Manhattan College. PHOTO COURT ESY MANHAT TAN COLLEGE
SUBMIT YOUR OWN LET T ER Letters to the Editor may be submitted to thequad@manhattan.edu by Saturday at noon to be considered for publication. Profanity, vulgarity and hate will not be published. The Quadrangle reserves the right not to publish a letter.
News
OCTOBER 3, 2017
Jack Kornutik & Grace Owens Elected Freshman Student Government Vice Presidents __________________________
While Kornutik regretted not joining more clubs in high school, he also regretted not getting involved in student government. When the opportunity arose at Manhattan, he knew he had to set out to make change. “I’ve always viewed myself as a leader and capable of influencing large groups of people in a positive manner; because of this, student government is something that has always interested me. It’s something that I always regret not being a part of it in high school, so when the opportunity arose here at Manhattan College, I immediately jumped on it and haven’t looked back since,” Kornutik said. Owens was inspired to run as freshman class vice president because she wanted to make a lasting mark during her time here. “I wanted to [...] give back to the school that will be giving me so much the next four years. I also would love to meet a lot of people in my class and help unify all of us as one,” Owens said. To both Kornutik and Owens, Student Government is an organization that gives a voice to the students who normally are perceived to be voiceless on a college campus. The organization has the power to bring students together, to make everyone’s experience the best it can be, and Kornutik and Owens are ready to begin improving life here at Manhattan. “I want to bring our class together united as one. I plan on organizing events with my fellow VP, Jack Kornutik, that will help facilitate the interaction between students in our class. In college, it is very important
Jack Kornutik and Grace Owens will represent the Class of 2021 in Student Government. Photo is of Jack Kornutik. Jack kornutik / courtesy
Abby Crowell Staff Writer
Continued FROM Page 1 Kornutik was just as eager as Owens to meet new people when stepping foot on campus, and it’s very clear that both of them are already on the right path. “So far, my experience here at Manhattan College has been great. Getting the opportunity to meet new people and live in a different state has been a blessing. The students at this school are truly exceptional and all have a certain way of carrying themselves that I have never witnessed before. Everybody is so kind and genuine here that it is hard to find any flaws about attending this college. My teachers have been great and although we are only a month into classes, I have learned a ton,” Kornutik said. In a month, these two students have already made a mark. Not only are these two students now the Vice Presidents of their class, they also partake in a variety of different clubs and activities. Next to lacrosse, Owens is a part of the Relay for Life Club, as well as the Biology Club on campus. Kornutik admits that he didn’t take advantage of clubs in high school, though he wishes he did, so he set out to be as involved as possible. “One thing that I never took advantage of in high school were the extracurricular activities or ‘clubs.’ I made it my goal to join some when I got to campus and I did just that. I am currently a member the Investment Club where I am an analyst for the Energy and Utilities sector. I’m also a member of the Economics and Finance Society, the Management Club and the Neighborhood Relations Committee,” Kornutik said.
James Patterson ‘69 Scholarship Recipients Announced
3
to make relationships with people from many different backgrounds in order to build a network of people who can help you in the future. I want to give students the opportunity to do that,” Owens said. As Freshman Vice President, Kornutik and Owens are not only focused on improving interactions between students, and improving their overall experience, they’re also focused on expanding opportunities to bring everyone on campus together. “I want to make schoolwide events more attractive and bring in bigger and better vendors. Many students here look past the opportunity to meet new people, especially at their own school. Maintaining a social life and having the ability to network is something that is very important to me. I’d like each and every student here to have the ability to do so and do it while having a good time,” Kornutik said The support system that Kornutik and Owens want to build for all students at Manhattan, whether they live near or far, is outstanding, and the first thing they plan to do is not only hear the student body out, but also plan events to bring them together. “The goal is to be a bridge between the students and the higher powers that have the power to make changes to the way we live on campus,” said Owens. “I will always be open to hearing ideas from students in my class that I can pass up to be considered. I want to help make everyone happy so if there is anything that anyone wants to be seen done on campus, I would love for them to contact me and we can figure out how to make those things happen. I want to be the most approachable that I can [be] so that anyone who has an idea will feel like it will be valued.” Kornutik and Owens are beginning to plan a variety of events for their freshman class, as well as working towards the goal of making the class of 2021 the best one yet. Creating more of a community amongst their class is a common goal, and Kornutik and Owens have already began working towards it.
T HE QUAD IS ONLINE.
www.mcquad.org
ALL T HE STORIES. AT YOUR FINGERT IPS.
Renowned author James Patterson has continuously funded a scholarship program in his name at Manhattan College and this year’s recipients of the award have recently been announced. Patterson graduated from MC in 1969 with a degree in English. It has been many years since Patterson was a student at MC, but that does not stop him from being an involved alumnus. Years after his graduation from MC, Patterson has donated $2 million to bookstores and libraries in 2015, yet his altruism does not stop there. Patterson displays his generosity annually through the award of the James Patterson Scholarship. This academic year is the 6th year that Patterson has allocated this award to outstanding upperclassmen, 10 juniors and 10 seniors. The demographic of the recipients varies greatly. The winners included students from the Engineering, Science, Liberal Arts, Business, and Education and Health schools. Patterson created this scholarship in order to honor Jaspers that portray strong academics as well as leadership roles. The junior recipients of this year’s scholarship include: Rinor Ahmetaj, Karla Ortiz, Jaycie Cooper, Kaiyun Chen, Alessandra Palmisano, Muhammad Buttar, Meghan Polhemus, Melissa Gallardo, Claudia Ramirez, and Diana Balaj. The seniors who received the scholarship are Shane Duggan, Mia Bertolli, Lorraine Bishop, Lisa Maria Nilaj, Maria Mazo, Alessandra Eraifez, Kathia Coronado, Shimul Miah, Yulemmy Mendez, and Carly Corbett-Frank. Each of the recipients will receive $5,000. This scholarship is an exceptional example of how MC alumni work hard to give back to the school that helped make them who they are today. Two of the scholarship winners, senior Shimul Miah and junior Diana Balaj expressed their gratitude for winning this beneficial scholarship. “I’m really grateful for Manhattan’s opportunities. The scholarship and school is a great asset to me. I wouldn’t be here without the help of the college, and this scholarship shows this school truly cares about a kid from the Bronx,” said Miah. Miah’s submission essay consisted of anecdotes about
his early life in the Bronx, his international adventures and LOVE trips, and his struggles. When asked why he believes his essay stood out to James Patterson, he stated, “I was being myself. I told my story and he recognized me for who I am and where I come from.” Miah’s career goals consist of humanitarian aid work, diplomacy, or working with the United Nations. After the experience of winning this award twice, Miah says he will continue to apply to other scholarships. As for Balaj, the scholarship
__________________________
“I wouldn’t be here without the help of the college, and this scholarship shows this school truly cares about a kid from the Bronx,” recipient Shimul Miah said. has also been very beneficial. The Dobbs Ferry, NY native discovered the James Patterson scholarship after receiving an email that included an invitation to apply. This scholarship stood out to her due to her fondness of Patterson’s novels. “With this financial break I can now put into affect my other goals and even give back to the world,” said Balaj. Balaj acknowledges that Ms. Elen Mons was very helpful in her scholarship process. The guidance from Ms. Elon Mons, as well as her writing experience contributed to why the committee chose her submission to be a winner. After winning this scholarship, Balaj is very excited for her future. “I want to pursue a International Law degree after my undergrad at MC. So we’ll see where that takes me!” Balaj is also intending to go on a LOVE trip through the school or International Studies HQ.
News
4
THE QUADRANGLE
Revamping The Jasper Menu Catherine Goodyear Asst. Editor
Locke’s Loft, Kelly Commons Marketplace, and Cafe 1853 are all key parts of a student’s diet at Manhattan College. This year, Gourmet Dining has added a few changes that students will start seeing on campus. Brian Weinstein, the resident district manager of Gourmet Dining has been with Manhattan College for almost a year now and has already made some big changes. “Since the success of the Red Mango we are actually adding a second machine so we will have four flavors and that’s coming in October. Cafe 1853’s menu was revamped and we redesigned the whole menu adding some cool new things and took away some slow-moving things but kept the popular things that our students and faculty love here,” said Weinstein. Kevan Oryani, junior psychology major, commented on her on-campus dining experience. “I usually eat in Café 1853 because I am a commuter. I like the fact that my friends who really are mostly commuters can all hang out here together. It’s a nice feeling to have a place to meet up when everyone’s not in class,” said Oryani. “The staff here is really friendly and I just really like Café 1853 I don’t have any complaints. I like Diana, who usually serves coffee.She is really sweet and social and there’s a familiarity to the people here. Everybody is really approachable. Even though they work for gourmet dining they will stop and have a conversation with you and you can talk to them.” Sophomore Kyle Hollen-
Locke’s Loft now has Hershey’s hard ice cream and a retail area that sells snacks and beverages. ROSE BRENNAN / THE QUADRANGLE baugh, an economics and finance major, said, “Cafe 1853 is the break I need when I’ve gotten sick of Locke’s and it’s a good way to spend dining dollars. Kelly is good, last year I took advantage of the free meal swipe and the food is always good and the pizza is always good the food is cheap and they always have a lot of good things to offer.” Gourmet Dining and Weinstein also brought One Sushi and Tong’s Asian Cuisine to Kelly Commons last year. Weinstein has continued making changes in the Commons this semester. The deli menu now features Boar’s Head products and the grill station now houses a burrito bowl and taco bar. The pizza station also has a daily pasta option, offering vegan- and vegetarian-friendly sauces. Along with the advancements in Kelly Commons and Café 1853, Weinstein has strived to improve Locke’s Loft. “Locke’s is basically the heart of the dining program,” said Weinstein. “Mondays we like to focus on our super food
and Tuesdays we like to do Hibachi and Wednesdays we love to do a steak night, Thursdays we love to do a seaport night with fresh seafood and Fridays are fair trade Fridays especially since we are coming into the month of October which is fair trade month, so we like to focus on it and promote to the students, faculty and the whole community on campus that we are a fair trade campus and promote the fair trade products.” Locke’s serves about 3,500 to 4,000 meals to students and faculty on a daily basis. To meet the demand, Gourmet Dining has added a few new items, including more coffee urns, new flameless induction burners for cooking in the Home Kitchen and menu enhancements. Fruits and vegetables are the biggest quantity order for Locke’s, so the staff tries to keep their orders stocked with local fresh produce. “They make good food sometimes,” said Peter Halliday, a sophomore accounting major, “but I’d like to see consistency in Locke’s so I think they should do a rating at least
after every dinner.” Student satisfaction is one of the goals Gourmet Dining strives for. This semester, Weinsteinhelped incorporate a Hershey’s hard ice cream cart with six flavors, as well as a retail wall in the front entrance with beverages and snacks for students and faculty on the go. Allison Berejka, a sophomore marketing major said, “I like that in Locke’s you can serve it yourself because at some other colleges you can’t really do that [...] I also think that we could have higher quality foods, like the grilled chicken sometimes can be a little raw.” Many student-athletes on campus get their daily nutrition from Locke’s, including sophomore lacrosse player, Caileigh Lampersberger. “Locke’s has a good cereal selection and there’s usually grilled chicken which I love, and they have a good amount of fruits, and the salad bar is usually stocked, and I like the DIY station,” said Lampersberger. “I don’t like that they don’t restock the food that often, and
because there’s only a couple of meals, if you come in at like 2:00pm or something there’s not a lot of food left. They can be kind of slow to refill things up like if the milk or something is out it will usually be out for a while. I feel like they could have more hot meals or at least grilled chicken throughout the day because people have weird class schedules and times,” Lamersberger said. Gourmet Dining has been and will continue to be hosting new events throughout the semester, including Monday Night Football at the Exhibition Station, hand rolled sushi on Oct. 11, National Pasta Day on Oct. 17, a costume contest with cash prizes, a pumpkin decorating contest and a themed menu with treats for Halloween. “I hope everyone here at Manhattan College is happy with the food and my goal is to strive on good food with great customer service. I am very proud of my team at Manhattan College, my employees and I am proud to be here,” said Weinstein.
MC Senate Sidesteps Columbus Day Proposal After Testy Exchange __________________________ Continued FROM Page 1 ful manner,” said Cacciavillani. McKiernan then changed focus in her argument and asserted to Geraci that in a religious context Columbus Day exemplifies the college’s Lasallian values. McKiernan declined to comment. “Frankly the way he was treated by some members of the Senate was abhorrent. I can’t believe these are the elders in charge of our school,” one student senator commented.
The meeting then devolved into a disorganized dialogue, with senators shouting over each other and ignoring Jayawickreme’s calls for order. Another member of the Senate reiterated McKiernan’s original questioning of whether it was appropriate or not for Geraci to raise his proposal, simply because his twelve years as a member of the college community were less than their own durations. Sources at the meeting could not identify this member. No vote was held on Geraci’s proposal.
“I’ll be honest, I didn’t expect the incredible pushback experienced at the Senate,” Geraci wrote. In an email, Geraci drew a comparison between his opposition on the floor of the Senate and the opposition faced by the college’s patron saint, St. Jean Baptiste De la Salle, during his ministry. “I hope that people will recognize that when our patron started teaching the poor, there were certainly people scared of that change,” Geraci wrote. “But De La Salle’s work was part of the long arc of histori-
cal progress, one in which we offer more opportunity, more care, and more protection to our brothers and sisters across the human family.” The backlash that met Geraci’s proposal pushed the boundaries of the Senate’s constitution, the preamble of which references the body’s “common goal of strengthening our institution by participating in its governance.” Quattromani is working with other student government representatives to conduct a campus-wide survey to gauge where exactly the student body
stands on this issue. Quattromani is personally against the proposal. The results of the survey will be taken into consideration by the Senate at its next meeting on Oct. 17. “I don’t care if you’ve been here for a month or 35 years, you have a voice on this campus,” Quattromani said.
The full text of the proposal can be found linked on The Quadrangle’s website, mcquad.org.
Features
OCTOBER 3, 2017
5
Growing Up Latino:
MC Celebrates Latino Heritage Month Alexa Schmidt & Samantha Walla Staff Writers
Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 is a month dedicated to celebrating Latino heritage in the United States, commemorating the culture and contributions of American Latinos. The Manhattan College community has many outlets and extracurricular activities in place to honor the heritage, including Fuerza Latina. This club, which embraces Hispanic culture through interactive activities, aims to provide students from all backgrounds a place they can be themselves and expand their views. Anna Rosario, a sophomore international studies major with a double minor in peace studies and Spanish, is the president of Fuerza Latino. “I wanted to re-establish Fuerza Latina on campus because I wanted it to be known that Hispanics are a strong presence on campus and that [there are] a lot of us,” Rosario said. “I wanted there to be a club where we could just be ourselves and learn about other Hispanic cultures as well as teach others about our cultures.” The importance of Fuerza Latina and Latino Heritage Month extend far beyond celebration of culture. “I believe it is very important to have Latino Heritage
Month because people need to be educated on the many contributions Latinx have made in the U.S. It also helps those Latinxs born in the United States. Latino Americans face many challenges and cause them to have insecurities and doubts about their heritage and ethnicity,” says Rosario. “I know I felt this growing up. I was always a “gringa” [which means “white girl”] to my cousins because I was too Americanized, or I was too Hispanic in school. I didn’t know who I was or where I fit in.” Rosario also calls for the reform of Hispanic history teaching in American schools, as Hispanic students should be exposed to historical figures such as Sonia Sotomayor, Roberto Clemente and César Chávez all of whom build pride in their heritage in the same way that they are exposed historical figures like George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Despite this, Rosario can easily point to her favorite aspects of her heritage. “Growing up DominicanAmerican was so much fun and there was never a dull moment in my childhood,” she said. “My parents made it their mission to make sure that all of their children knew where our family came from. Family is everything in any Hispanic household, my parents always wanted a big family, this I am the oldest of nine children [six
Gabby Montes’ heritage inspired her love of dancing at a young age. Gabby Montes / courtesy
girls and three boys] Though my parents are both bilingual, Spanish was the main language spoken at home.” Tradition is an important part of growing up Latina. Rosario favored the feast of Los Tres Reyes Magos and putting on an annual nativity play in her parish. “At my house Santa Claus doesn’t exist, we instead get gifts from the three kings,” she said. “I remember that every year after all the children of my parish put on the nativity play we all had to sing really loud to get the kings to hear us so they could come collect our gift letters. They always came and I just remember the incredible amount of joy that I felt then, and the joy that I feel now when I help the kids put on the show.” In addition to specific holidays, dancing is a large part of the Hispanic culture. “It is essential to surviving family parties,” Rosario said. “My parents taught me how to dance bachata and merengue and now I teach my younger siblings.” The importance and love of dance is found in many different Latin American countries. Gabby Montes, an exercise science major at MC, also cites dancing as one of her favorite aspects of her culture. “When it comes to the Nicaragüense side of my family, that culture, history and identity have play a huge role in my life,” Montes said. “Something I find really cool is that even though Nicaragua isn’t an island or part of the Caribbean it has a lot of those influences and dancing and music are huge part of the culture. So growing up exposed me to that plus me naturally being a really active kid, it sparked an interest in dance and I’ve been dancing ever since.” Montes describes her mother’s migration to New York to keep herself safe during times
Anna Rosario aims to re-establish Fuerza Latina and a Hispanic presence on campus during Latino Heritage Month. Anna Rosario / courtesy of war as a key influence in her upbringing. “My mom moved to New York when she was just a little older than I am now. She had $200 in her pocket, a small piece of paper with a name and address on it and nothing more. My mom wanted me to have a connection with my family and Nicaragua so we would always travel back and forth between the two places. She wanted me to get to know all the wonderful things Nicaragua had to offer and all the traditions and customs. So growing up I was really immersed with Nicaragua’s culture and it has impacted who I am today,” Montes said. When asked about her favorite tradition growing up, Montes spoke of “La Gigantona.” “It was like a huge carnivallike festival. Filled with music, food, dancing and of course ‘La Gigantona,’ which is essentially this giant wooden doll dressed up in super colorful dresses. Dancing Gigantona drums are played and popular folk verses and dances happen. It was first created by Nicaraguan mestizos to make fun of the Spanish and the conquistadors. But today it’s part of the culture and tradition and everyone in Nicaragua looks forward to it,” she said. Montes is also involved with
Fuerza Latina as head of public relations. During this Latino Heritage Month, the club supports the various Multicultural Center events and also focuses on their own fundraising efforts for natural disaster relief in Puerto Rico and Mexico. The Multicultural Center, located in Kelly Commons, has organized multiple events in honor of Latino Heritage, including a poetry night that took place on Sept. 28. This event was an informal gathering that allowed students to come in and share original or favorite works of poetry, or just listen and support their friends. Leicy Ortiz-Jupiter, a sophomore, is one of the many students that attended this event. Although Ortiz-Jupiter is a civil engineer, she is no stranger to writing poetry. “I like poetry and I’ve been trying to get my stuff out there. I like writing and enjoy it so. I’ve been doing this since I was about six, but I never really told anyone how I feel. And now I’m feeling all type of feelings,” Ortix-Jupiter said. Throughout the rest of Latino Heritage Month, both the Multicultural Center and Fuerza Latina will continue to host events and celebrate the colorful Hispanic culture.
Patricia Egan People of Manhattan “It bothers me how much emphasis we all put on how we appear to other people and how we all live in fear of being judged by other people. We’re constantly having to worry about our image and how other people view us rather than worrying about who we are as people and individuals. We work more on how we appear rather than who we are, and I think that needs to change.” Interview and photo by Megan Dreher.
6
Features
THE QUADRANGLE
Summer Research Inspires Stud
Research Scholars Present T
Michevi Dufflart & Alyssa Velazquez Staff Writer & Editor
This past Thursday and Friday, a diffusion of knowledge occurred in the Kelly Commons as the works and findings from over 75 student research projects conducted over the summer and past year were showcased. Their research covered a wide range of topics such as the transhumanist elements displayed in anime artwork, studies of worker cooperatives and even a study of cacti in the desert. Through the college’s Summer Research Program, undergraduate students are granted a stipend for their studies and many had the opportunity to conduct research on- and offcampus. However, now that the projects have come to an end for many, these students show off their findings in two presentation days at the end of September. The first day of presentations consisted of an address from keynote speaker Martha Brown, Ph.D., daughter of the late physics professor Edward Brown, followed by a dinner and a student research poster session. During the poster session people had to the opportunity to speak to the students to find out more information about their research and ask any questions they may have had. The second day of presentations focused on each student individually, giving them the opportunity to showcase their work in a ten minute presentation, followed by a short ques-
Kevin Donald’s research consisted of the studies of the trans-humanist elements found in anime. PATRICK FACCAS / Courtesy tion and answer session. One of the students who was first to present for the day was Kevin Donald. Donald’s topic of research was titled “Androids and Anime Fans: Soft-Transhumanism in the Consumption and Creation of Postmodern Anime.” When presenting his research at the poster session, Donald stated that he initially wasn’t a fan of anime and was unfamiliar with this form of animation. With this, Donald also had to study the post-modern culture of Japan in order to fully understand the different elements and fea-
tures that are displayed in the animes he chose to analyze. One element of anime that Donald studied was the role of the Otaku, otherwise known as the fans of anime. One fan of anime was Tsutomu Miyazaki Now regarded as the Otaku Killer, Miyazaki was known for the killing of four young girls in Japan between 1988 and 1989. Although Miyazaki was a consumer of Anime, Donald makes it a point that Miyazaki was also a producer because his room was eventually redesigned in a film scene to be the room of one of the characters.
Emily Center plans to continue her research throughout the course of the fall semester. PATRICK FACCAS / Courtesy
Another element that Donald decided to research more on was the role that technology serves in anime. The combination of technology and the human body is often portrayed in animes. This typically results in the human body’s inability to sustain itself which leads to the technology’s growth and eventual control of the human body. Through the soft-transhumanism elements in anime, people are able to see how this style of film reflects back to everyday aspects of society. During the Education and Health presentations, two seniors, Josh Miesner and John Amato both exercise science majors, presented their research called “The Combined Effects of Blood Flow Restriction Training and Cross Education on Untrained Arm Girth and Maximal Strength.” Miesner and Amato both became interested in doing research on these topics after realizing that no one had ever studied the effects of both types of training at the same time. As described by Miesner, in blood flow restriction training, a cuff is placed on the arm which restricts blood flow to veins, but in the process, increases production of lactic acid. In cross education, the body works to send signals to both sides when only one side is working. As an example, Amato mentioned throwing darts with your dominant arm, but still receiving the same training effects in the less dominant arm.
Their research, which was conducted at the end of last semester, required students to exercise using both blood flow restriction training and cross education. Thus students only exercised one arm for five weeks and then Miesner and Amato measured the strength in the other arm to see how it was affected. After the five weeks, Miesner and Amato found that the arm muscle in the unexercised arm had a growth of 1 centimeter. Both noted that this is unusual because it usually takes about 8-12 weeks for arm muscles to grow 1 centimeter when it is exercised. The two agree that the experience was very rewarding and hope their research can have more practical uses in rehabilitation or stroke patients. Another student who hopes their research can make an impact in the future lives of others is junior mechanical engineer Alessandra Palmisano. Palmisano’s research, titled “Study of Concussions on Female Soccer Players,” involved designing equipment and code that did not hinder the player during active play and worked well in measuring the acceleration after the soccer player made contact with the ball. After creating this code, Palmisano found that when she plugged in idealistic velocity values such as the average velocity of the soccer ball, she obtained results that indicated a concussion, which is a very
Features
OCTOBER 3, 2017
dents to Follow Their Passions:
7
Their Findings to the College
The Poster Session allowed students to showcase their work on the fifth floor of Kelly Commons. PATRICK FACCAS / Courtesy serious and even life threatening injury. Through her research, Palmisano hopes she can help prevent others from sustaining these injuries and raise awareness about minimizing concussions in the future. While many students did research on campus, others, such as juniors Marissa Locastro and Cole Johnson, both biology majors, conducted re-
tion that one of the best parts of their research was rarely ever feeling like they were doing work and applying what they learned in class, out in a real setting. Another student who was able to connect their research to a real world setting is Emily Center. Center’s research, titled “Challenging the Social Order: Worker Cooperatives Live out the Vision of Dorothy
____________________________
“I was able to learn so much that I became more and more invested in my topic of worker cooperatives, and this allowed me to build great relationships with those I interviewed and met for my research,” said Emily Center. search off campus, in Arizona. Their research titled, “Bark Formation and Death Progression in Saguaro Cacti,” is part of the continuing research of a professor. Both Locastro and Johnson found the research an interesting opportunity and decided to embark on the journey. While in Tucson, Arizona Locastro and Johnson spent five weeks in the desert collecting data on hundreds of cacti. The cacti tested had bark growing on them preventing gas exchange and therefore increasing the rate of death of the cacti. The data they collected thus allowed them to predict when a cactus was going to die. What they discovered is that while cacti used to live for 300 or more years, they are now living for less than 200. Locastro and Johnson men-
Day,” allowed her to travel to different locations to hear from people first hand about her topic and develop relationships with them. One location Center visited was the Peter Maurin Farm, named after Peter Maurin who helped found the Catholic Worker Movement with Dorothy Day in the early 1900s. When visiting the farm, Center had the opportunity to interview some of the workers and representatives. Center emphasizes the importance of interviewing these workers and building relations with them when stating, “I was able to learn so much that I became more and more invested in my topic of worker cooperatives, and this allowed me to build great relationships with those I interviewed and met for my research.”
Her passion, being ignited from the research she has done this past summer, has encouraged her to continue studying worker cooperatives throughout this fall semester. As shown by many of the research scholars, students have been able to take topics they were interested in and turn them into topics they were passionate about. Center recounts on her research by referring to some key advice from the keynote speaker, Martha Brown, when stating, “the most rewarding part of my research this summer was building a real love for my topic and a foundation for future research on that topic.” The last bit of advice that Brown concluded her address with, not only for the research scholars but any student interested in research, was to “take the time to build your own foundation, whatever that means for you, one that’s going to support you through all of the excited times that I know are ahead of you.”
Constantine Theodosiou [top], Dean of the School of Science, introduces Martha Brown, Ph.D., [below], the keynote speaker for the presentation event. PATRICK FACCAS / Courtesy
Josh Miesner and John Amato conducted their research over the course of five weeks at the end of the past semester. PATRICK FACCAS / Courtesy
8
Arts & Entertainment
Meet the New Scatterbombers
THE QUADRANGLE
VOICES ON THE QUAD
The Scatterbomb show on Sept. 29, entitled “Nothing to See Here,” welcomed two new members to the improvisational comedy troupe on campus. It was a show full of milk jug chugging, honey nut cheerio eating and white t-shirts. Two other new members had their first show back on Sept. 8 at “Scatterbomb Accidentally Kisses Mom on the Mouth at Move-In.” Scatterbomb holds auditions at the end of the spring semester and beginning of the fall semester every year.
Jennifer Bueti Freshman Major: English Education How did you like your first Scatterbomb show? “It was fun, I actually really liked it a lot. I was nervous at first, but now it’s good.” Why did you decide to audition for Scatterbomb in the first place? “One of my friends actually brought it up to me. I didn’t know who Scatterbomb were at first, but then we went to the auditions together and they seemed like a really cool group.” How have you liked your Scatterbomb experience so far? “I love it. They make me feel like a part of them, like we’re one big family and it’s really nice.”
Kat Prevo Junior Major: Secondary Education Why did you join Scatterbomb? “I’m an athlete, I play on the softball team, and it was just a way to have a different interest and a different outlet when you’re wrapped up in the academics and sports and everything going on in college. This was a very nice outlet and I felt very comfortable. The team was very welcoming and it’s kind of just like a new family here at Manhattan College.” Have you ever done anything like Scatterbomb in high school? “I was in drama class in high school, but honestly no. This is my first experience and I kind of just winged it and I’ve learned a lot. Improv is not something you can just make up, or not prepare for, so I feel really grateful that I’m actually learning things every week through this club.”
Aedan Roney Freshman Major: Communication How did you like your fist Scatterbomb show? “It was an excellent debut, I had a lot of fun and everybody’s great to work with and I had an awesome time.” Why did you decide to audition for Scatterbomb in the first place? “I did some improv back in high school and I really enjoyed myself and I wasn’t sure if I was going to join or no when I came on campus, but then I saw somebody walking around with a t-shirt and thought it was really cool. Thought I would [audition] and A, join the group, and B, get a t-shirt.” How have you liked your Scatterbomb experience so far? “It’s been perfect, it’s been more than amazing. Everybody immediately accepted me and immediately brought me and Jenn (Bueti) into that community. I’ve had a lot of fun with the improv, and a lot of fun getting to know everyone.”
Erin McWilliams Sophomore Major: Chemical Engineering How have you liked your Scatterbomb experience so far? “Honestly, it’s one of the most positive, fun, and energetic environments that I’ve ever been in. It’s just really relaxing and it’s great being able to be goofy and making jokes all the time.” Why did you audition for Scatterbomb in the first place? “I like comedy a lot, and everyone loves a good laugh. I love constantly making jokes.” Have you had previous experiences like this in high school? “No, this was something I’ve tried out only because it just something that made me happy doing in day-to-day life.”
Interviews and photos by Alexa Schmidt
Arts & Entertainment
OCTOBER 3, 2017
9
Gourmet Dining Offers Cooking Class Christopher Nuzzo Contributor
If you are a student living on campus, you may have strolled past the home kitchen in Locke’s Loft a few times on the way to get your morning coffee. But how many students could actually pick up a pot or pan, and actually make themselves a meal? The sad truth is that many college students lack the culinary skill to even boil an egg. Brian Weinstein, manager of Gourmet Dining, is ready to put a stop to the epidemic that is culinary illiteracy. On Sept. 20, Gourmet Dining held one of its biannual cooking classes. An announcement was made on Student Engagement’s Instagram with the caption, “Cook like a PRO! Sign up now”, along with fliers around Locke’s Loft. Aspiring chefs were taught how to make garlic sautéed shrimp, doing everything from the cleaning and prep, to the cooking itself. The student-chefs also baked banana bread from scratch. “We incorporated Fair Trade ingredients for Fair Trade awareness/education to kick off Fair Trade Month in October,” said Weinstein “Gourmet Dining purchased chef coats for all participants to use and keep after the event.” Chemical engineering senior Stephanie Butron reflect-
Students were given the opportunity to learn how to cook from the Gourmet Dining staff, using fair trade ingredients. TAYLOR BRETHAUER / THE QUADRANGLE ed on her experience, saying, “I think learning to cook is more than just learning to make good food. When you’re in the kitchen, everything relies on what ingredients you choose to put in, and what method you choose to cook with. That kind of experience teaches you to be more mindful of your choices, both in and out of the kitchen.” When asked about whether he would recommend the class
to others, Riazur Rahaman, a freshman computer science major, said, “[after] having a wonderful experience in that cooking class, I would highly recommend students to take part and learn some new cooking skills, because food is the best language to express… It’s free food. Need I say more?” Weinstein stressed that having cooking skills is necessary: “It’s a very important part
of life. As college is the last step for most before entering the work world, we find it best that the community learns some culinary education as well. It will be a lifetime memory that you will always look back on.” These classes had an impact on students who chose to attend, as some were able to pick up specific skills in the kitchen from sautéing to working with seafood. As Butron
said, “I definitely think the skills I learned will stick with me for a long time.” The cooking classes are put on once a semester, and to be a part of the experience, all you need to do is sign up. Cooking is an art form, and an integral part of becoming an adult. In the wise words of Brian Weinstein, “Cook with passion, love, happiness, and most importantly, have fun.”
The Play That Goes Wrong THEATER & THE CITY Theater and the City is a column of student-written reviews in the ENGL 400 class taught by Deirdre O’Leary Cunningham. This week’s entry is by Caridad Price. In a world that seems to be crumbling with every step we take, the Olivier-winning group Mischief Theater’s “The Play That Goes Wrong” gives us the welcome comic relief of being able to laugh at a complete and utter fiasco, a catastrophic mess that it is contained and gratefully fictitious. The Olivier Award winning play, “The Play That Goes Wrong,” is a brilliantly cheesy, cheap version of an Agatha Christie novel and is hilarious as a Will Ferrell movie. The play was originally performed in the Duchess Theater in London and now falls apart 8 times a week at the Lyceum Theater on Broadway with its original casts and creative team. The audience is quickly informed that the overambitious Cornley University Drama Society has staged a whodunit production and is welcomed by
Chris Bean to watch a low budget production of the Murder at Haversham Manor. Prior to his introduction, the audience has already witnessed cast members fixing the unfinished set moments before the play is expected to begin and are asked if they have seen the production’s missing full-grown cocker spaniel. In order to enjoy this play one must let go of the trepidation that often greets with theater superstitions. Because once the play begins, every failure in theater production ever feared or performed is reenacted within the play. The dead body refusing to stay dead, at a standstill, the main character mistakenly revealing the big finale multiple times, and the lead actress replaced by the stage hand in a crooked wig and dress thrown over jean overalls. The progressively dismantling stage has only begun to suffer after a smokey elevator breaks down, a snapped wooden beam slowly fails to carry a ledge (filled with actors), broken floor boards smack people unconscious, and
the grand curtain collapses. Throughout the cataclysm of a play, the casts is able to successfully uphold the “show must go on” concept. Everything was timed and convoluted so perfectly well for each mistake to occur, that in a play that was expected to be so predictable, the audience still gasped after every thud, bump, and brutal fall. Audience members shouted out from the balcony and orchestra seats as bodies were literally flung left to right, up and down, and even dropped from scenes here and there, no one knew what to expect. I can recall a moment when I played the lead role in a murder mystery, the moment I forgot my line and the dead body whispered the line to me. An event that was quite embarrassing and frustrating at the moment is hilarious today. “The Play That Goes Wrong” highlights everything that possibly could go wrong and has gone wrong in any production ever created. Mischief Theater recreates moments in plays where improvisation is used to hilarious effect, such as when
“The Play That Goes Wrong” is a hilarious comedy of mishaps and missed lines from start to finish. TAYLOR BRETHAUER/ THE QUADRANGLE Inspector Carter (Mark Evans) was forced to use a vase filled with flowers as a notepad or the moment the stage director, Annie Twilloil (Ashley Bryant) and Sandra Wilkinson (Amelia
McClain) have a literal knockout battle for the spotlight. Arguably, comedic relief provided by a dramatized murder mystery gone hilariously wrong is exactly what we need today.
Arts & Entertainment
10
THE QUADRANGLE
Coffeehouse Begins Semester with Show on the Quad Megan Haugh Contributor
Before juniors Erin Plitt and Alex Constantine took the positions of hosting Coffeehouse, the two both participated on the open platform, not as students but as individual artists. On the evening of Sept. 29, Plitt and Constantine opened that platform to both new and returning Manhattan College students, so that they too could create a definition of their own artistry. The steps in front of Smith Auditorium transitioned from a break between classes during the day to a stage where students could express themselves through their talents and imaginations during the night. From covers of “Viva La Vida” and “Space Oddity,” to magic tricks and standup comedy, each artist presented to the audience their own personal flare and identity. Some performers were veterans on the stage and some were rookies just testing out the waters, but all of them had in common the desire to be a part of Manhattan’s ever-growing community of the performing arts. The duo of Plitt and Constantine came to be at the beginning of last year when previous hosts, RJ Liberto and George Schlinck selected the duo. Constantine recalled, “RJ and George were the hosts before us and they put a ton of effort into it, and they hosted it for three years together.” For Plitt, this position was crucial because the previous hosts wanted to make sure that there was a female host in the loop since there hadn’t been in a while. Plitt and Constantine were both able to provide the right amount of muscle to keep Coffeehouse as a welcoming environment that wouldn’t deter any newcomers from performing, or audience members from shying away at the chance to take over the mic. When expressing what they wanted from the events, the hosts both discussed the need for a very roomy collective. “We don’t want to deter people from coming, because everyone thinks that they have
to be talented or that they have to perform a song. Like they can perform anything and do whatever they want; they can get up here and just scream into the mic for all we care. So we just want it to be like a very fun program for people to just come whenever and sign up,” Constantine explained with enthusiasm, emphasizing that performers don’t need to carry a perfect tune or write a clean stanza - they just need to perform. The duo works together to give people a platform where artists can express themselves without any kind of pressure while cultivating energy and fluidity to the show. Plitt reflected on one night last year when the show’s placement during the week didn’t allow for most regulars to perform. The duo expected not to have a great show, but they were greeted by an immense number of newcomers who were eager to perform. The amazing turnout was stacked with back-to-back sets, the show even ran later than planned because there were so many people who wanted to participate. “That high after a good show is what makes it for me,” Plitt said. While Plitt loves to host, it became clear that she more deeply loves to provide other students with an open and easy-going atmosphere to construct their own forms of expression. During the event, there was also a table open to collect donations for natural disaster relief. The hosts both decided that through Coffeehouse, they would work together with other organizations on campus and raise money to aid in relief efforts as well as sell fair trade chocolate. Coffeehouse will reoccur at the end of every month during the school year, most likely on either Tuesdays or Thursdays, typically located in Jasper Hall first floor lounge or out on the steps of Smith. Wherever you find Coffeehouse, you’ll find Plitt and Constantine.
Students gathered on the Quad for the first Coffeehouse of the semester. AARON MAYORGA / THE QUADRANGLE
Coffeehouse featured several performers, including Rocio Romallo (pictured). AARON MAYORGA / THE QUADRANGLE
Join The Quadrangle
WE’RE LOOKING FOR WRIT ERS / GRAPHIC DESIGNERS / PHOTOGRAPHERS / VIDEOGRAPHERS
Weekly Open Meetings TUESDAYS @ 4 P.M. IN Kelly 412
Sports
OCTOBER 3, 2017
Soccer Rookie of the Week:
11
Brandon Joseph-Buadi JASPERS TALK
Kobe Borden Contributor
Freshman Brandon JosephBuadi is playing in his rookie season at Manhattan College on the soccer team. He is a forward from Shoreham-by-Sea in England, looking to make a difference on the team. Coming off his highlight week, number 11 is looking to extend his experience and become an asset throughout his experience at Manhattan College. The Quadrangle: What drew you to playing to playing soccer at a young age? Brandon Joseph-Buadi: I started playing when I was young because of my mom.
She encouraged me to play the game and I fell in love with it. TQ: How was life growing up in England? BJB: Life was great growing up, the weather was nice and rainy all the time. My favorite place in South City, it’s close to my home area and that’s what makes it good. TQ: What are some places to have traveled to playing soccer? BJB: I have been to Italy, Belgium, France, and Ireland playing for Portsmouth FC. I played in travel tournament in Ireland and that was by far the best experience. TQ: How do you view American Culture and soccer vs. the way it is viewed at home?
BJB: I came to Florida in June 2016, and played in the hot weather and competition to get ready for Manhattan College. In American culture, the game is played with physicality and energy and everyone is an athlete. Back at home there is more emphasis on technical skills. TQ: How are you enjoying Manhattan College so far? BJB: So far it has been good. I feel that we had a good preseason because of the team building activities. We went paintballing and it was a lot of fun, but it also does hurt. TQ: Is Rookie of the Year a goal for you? BJB: I am completive but at the same time it is all about
Brandon Joseph Baudi, a freshman from England, kicks off his first season at MC. GO JASPERS / COURTESY what the team needs. I haven’t thought about it much, but it would be nice. TQ: How has family influenced you?
BJB: My mother raised me and my two brothers as a single parent. I and my other brother (18) grew up playing sports and my brother just watched us play, since he is not interested.
Soccer Player Victoria Reis Reflects on Being a Student Athlete JASPERS TALK
Shannon Gleba Staff Writer
For the past three years, Victoria Reis has been able to make an impact on Manhattan College Women’s Soccer team. The junior from Rockville Centre, NY is a very strong defensive player, and loves working with her teammates to achieve success. As Manhattan starts conference play, she has confidence that the team will be able to be a competitive opponent in the MAAC. The Quadrangle: At what age did you start playing soccer? What made you want to start playing? Victoria Reis: I started playing soccer at the age of 4. My family has always been a huge soccer family, my grandparents were always involved in coaching my mom and her sisters growing up. My siblings all played and so it was something we always did together. My mom played at UConn, along with two of her sisters who played at William&Mary; my dad is from Brazil and grew up playing there so I have been immersed and surrounded by soccer since before I can remember. TQ: How is Division 1 soc-
cer different from the teams you have played on previously? VR: Division 1 soccer is different from my other teams because there is a much bigger commitment. It is also much more rewarding and I have a very close relationship with my teammates. It provides a support system and a family while we’re away at school. TQ: What are your favorite parts about being on Manhattan’s team? VR: My favorite part about being on the Manhattan College Women’s Soccer team is the camaraderie between my teammates. It is a great feeling to be a part of something and be with teammates on a campus that supports and aids you on and off the field. TQ: How do you manage the stress of being a student athlete? VR: While it is stressful to be a student athlete I find daily practice actually an escape from schoolwork and other responsibilities. While it is a big-time commitment, it aids in structuring my day and I feel as though it pushes me to do my work in a timely manner because I know I don’t have time to put it off. TQ: How has your season been so far? Does the team have any goals for improve-
ment going forward? VR: So far, our season has been great, we are just starting conference play and our team and coaching staff have all been working together to ensure that we do the best we can and that we are fulfilling all of the different roles each of us plays in order to be successful together. We have an extremely deep and talented team, it is now just up to how we use, and what we do with that talent. Our whole team is very dedicated and hardworking, we are all on the same page with our goals and attitude so it’s just a matter of how we translate those goals into actions on the field when it counts. TQ: How do you spend your time when you’re not studying or playing soccer? VR: When I’m not playing soccer, or studying, I really enjoy spending time with family and friends, any free time that I have I usually spend hanging out and being with those closest to me. TQ: What advice do you have to young athletes hoping to go D1? VR: For anyone aspiring to be a D1 athlete I would advise them to know themselves as a player and to be confident in themselves and their abili-
Victoria Reis has been a part of the women’s soccer team since her Freshman year. GO JASPERS / COURTESY ties. When a player begins to believe in their own abilities it makes it a lot easier for coaches and teammates around them to believe in them as well. I would also advise people to pick not
just athletic program that fits them but also a school that they love. I love my soccer team and program, but I also really enjoy the academics and the community at Manhattan College.
Sports
12
THE QUADRANGLE
Men’s Basketball Team Welcomes Five New Freshmen Charles Lippolis Asst. Editor
With Manhattan’s Men’s Basketball season just around the corner, the team is preparing to showcase some of the new faces that joined the squad in the offseason. Warren Williams (Kingston, Jamaica), Patrick Strzala (Bay-
Aaron Walker is the only freshman to make a return to the team. GOJASPERS / COURTESY
onne, N.J.), Nehemiah (Bud) Mack (Harrisburg, Pa.), Ebube Ebube (San Juan, Puerto Rico), and Pauly Paulicap (Elmont, N.Y.) are the five new faces joining the Jaspers for the 201718 season. Of the five; Williams, Ebube, and Paulicap will be occupying the front court while Mack and Strzala will be manning the back court. Four of the five newcomers are freshman in the program with Pauly Paulicap (Sophomore) transferring from Harcum College. This was a revamp that Head Coach Steve Masiello needed for his team after losing six players from the 201617 roster season. However, the team’s expectations remain high as they were able to maintain the core of upperclassmen that produced for them last year, while also bringing Rich Williams back from a knee injury that sidelined him for the entirety of last season. Although the five newcomers account for just over a third of Manhattan’s roster, Masiello feels that the team’s position hasn’t changed all that much. “I think there is a lot of turn-
over, you have almost 800 transfers in college basketball…even though we have some new face, five in total, we have a lot of our core returning,” Masiello said. One of the newest but most important aspects of that core is sophomore guard Aaron Walker Jr. The only freshman from 2016 returning to the team, Walker Jr. is prepared to assume a big role this year after breaking out at the end of last season. As both a productive player and team leader, Walker is excited to go to battle with new teammates that share his vision. “To be honest, I love all of my new guys… It’s just a great feeling when you have a group of guys that come in and they just want to listen and learn, and they just want to do what’s best for the team” Walker said. For Masiello, Walker assuming this role is something he values from both a production and player development aspect. Walker’s woes at the beginning of the 2016 season were a product of immature and sloppy play, but signs of leadership and maturity are invaluable in the eyes of Masiello as he aims
to develop young men both onand-off the court. “You constantly tell guys, a year older doesn’t make you a year better, but I think Aaron has shown a lot of growth from a consistency stand point,” Masiello said. As far as projections, Masiello is certain that this team has what it takes to win a MAAC Championship and beyond. There may be some young and new faces, but Masiello took time to assess how his roster fits together so that regardless of age or ability, the 14-man roster can share the drive, determination, and sacrifice that it takes to accomplish team oriented goals. “I think that’s something we’ve tried to reassess. What’s the fit? And making sure guys fit ‘your vision’; understand Rich’s vision, ‘Z’’s vision, Zane’s vision,” Masiello said. The team’s opening game is still roughly two months away, but the blueprint to the season is not only precise but understood. Manhattan has only won one MAAC tournament game since there MAAC tournament win in 2015, but with senior
Rich Williams comes back after experiencing a knee injury that sidelined him during the last season. GOJASPERS / COURTESY leadership and committed underclassmen the team is poised to be a contender in the 2018 campaign.
Tyler Wilson graduated last spring, completing a successful career at Manhattan College. GO JASPERS / COURTESY