Issue 5, Fall 2021- The Quadrangle

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Volume CIV Issue 5

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NEW YORK, SEPTEMBER 28, 2021

Manhattan Continues to Navigate the ‘New Normal’

As the first month of in-person classes at Manhattan comes to a close, the college continues to promote safety measures and precautions to maintain the potential spread of COVID-19 on campus.

In an email to the Manhattan College community, One Manhattan reported that within the last 14 days, Health Services has processed 599 COVID-19 tests from on-campus and off-campus testing sites, with 13 positive results.

With these results, the college has a positive test rate of 2.2 percent, in comparison to the 2.5 percent seven day positive test rate in New York City as a whole on Sept. 21. These results contrast greatly from the 7.6 percent positive test rate nationwide from Sept. 19.

The email also states that those who are getting tested most regularly are those who are unvaccinated with approved exemptions from the college. The college encourages all students, if necessary, to get tested.

“We are also asking those who have been close contacts with individuals who have tested positive, or who have experienced symptoms, to also be tested,” the email wrote.

The previous week of Sept.

16 showed promising results as the semester first kicked off with well facilitated in person activities and classes and a positive test average of only 1.5 percent during the 14 day period.

“Although it is not a complete return to pre-pandemic classrooms and activities, we think it has been a great start to the semester. Each day on campus is special, seeing students and colleagues and making us grateful for what has been absent for so long. Thank you to everyone for your part in mak-

ing the start to our new semester academic year safe and successful,” the email from Sept.

16 wrote.

To speed up the process of testing, Health Services and One Manhattan teams offered rapid testing during the afternoon of Thursday, Sept. 23.

Like the previous week’s popup testing, this was available in the Smith Auditorium lobby for all students, faculty, administrators or staff members in compliance with COVID-19 vaccine requirements or with an approved exemption.

Limited testing availability made the process first come first serve, but especially encouraged for those who were experiencing symptoms.

The rapid testing was not a substitute, however, for weekly PCR surveillance testing for individuals with approved exemptions.

Despite the relatively low positive test rate on campus, the email reminded the community about the mask mandate and that they are to be worn at all times when indoors to prevent any spreading of the virus on campus.

In an email sent out on Sept. 16, One Manhattan also reminded the community about the Serenity Hour hosted by the Multicultural Center on Fridays at 8:30 a.m. This is an opportunity for students to take a moment and pause while reflecting on the week during a discussion as a means of self care during these challenging times.

The ‘new normal’ for everyone has taken some time to get adjusted to, but with COVID-19 still continuing to exist within our city and our community, the college will continue to provide updates to keep everyone safe.

“Because the health and safety of our community is our first priority, we want to continue to provide updated information to you,” the email wrote.

IN A&E:

IN SPORTS:

Nicole Fitzsimmons News Editor

Autumn Sun Falls Over The Quad The beginning of the fall season kicked off with warm and sunny weather.

BRIAN ASARE / THE QUADRANGLE

MC Senate Reveals New Administrative Revenue and Budget Plan Kyla Guilfoil

Asst. News Editor The Manhattan College Senate reconvened on Sept.

21, with President O’Donnell outlining a new strategy for rebuilding the college’s budget and revenue. The plan aroused concern from many faculty members present, especially on the basis of representation and of restoring salary and retirement benefits cuts.

Before the meeting, O’Donnell had addressed the community by sending the senate members a document on Sept. 17, outlining the updates and plan established by the president’s office. O’Donnell told the senate that this was part of an attempt to make the meetings more conversational, rather than a focus on presenting information for the majority

of the meeting.

The strategy outlined by O’Donnell is essentially a motion to redirect the college’s budget from cuts to investments.

“I want to emphasize what I think sort of is the main message of this in regard to where we are financially at the college, and that is that we’re at a point now that we recognize that we really can’t cut anymore from this budget,” O’Donnell said at the meeting. “And in fact, we need to start pivoting towards a view of our budget and finances which emphasizes an investment in where we need to invest in order to get back on a pattern of growth and increased revenue. So we’re moving towards that.”

In turn, the president’s office listed a specific eight working groups in the Sept. 17

IN FEATURES: Manhattan Senate “Undeniable” with Russell Craig Meeting on p. 5 on p. 3

IN NEWS:

address that O’Donnell intends will quickly and effectively address issues around campus. These groups included those titled, “Building external partnerships and improving structures to strengthen and diversify student recruitment, including transfer students” and “Enhancing the on-campus student experience for residents and commuters.”

Sarah Wacker, Ph.D, senate member and professor of chemistry, believes that these groups are necessary for the college’s regrowth.

“The last year and a half have been particularly challenging for the college and I believe there is a lot of work that needs to be done,” Wacker told The Quadrangle. “Some of this work, such as the work of the __________________________ CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

WRCM is Back on p. 8

Manhattan Men’s Soccer vs. LIU on p. 9

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the Quadrangle Volume CIV, Issue 5

September 28, 2021

The Editorial Board Anna Woods Editor-in-Chief

Maria Thomas Managing Editor

Jilleen Barrett Managing Editor

Nicole Fitzsimmons News Editor

Kyla Guilfoil Asst. News Editor

Jilleen Barrett Arts & Entertainment Editor

Kelly Cwik Asst. Arts & Entertainment Editor

Christine Nappi Features Editor

Caroline McCarthy Asst. Features Editor

Pete Janny Sports Editor

Josh Sawyer Asst. Sports Editor

Lauren Raziano Social Media Editor

Kelly Kennedy Asst. Social Media Editor

Brian Asare Photography Editor

Nicole Rodriguez Production Editor

Adrianne Hutto Jocelyn Visnov Asst. Production Editors

Madalyn Johnson Katherine Heneghan Web Editors

Nicholas Gilewicz 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.

THE QUADRANGLE

LETTER from The Editor Dear Readers, Happy Fall! While I am thrilled that air is crisp, I am trying hard not to focus on the fact that the sun is setting earlier than 8 p.m.

This week’s issue is packed full of great stories. Our Assistant News Editor Kyla wrote an impactful piece summarizing the first and most recent senate meeting of the year. In Features, Christine Nappi and Jilleen Barrett covered Tiffany French’s lecture from the ‘Slow Burn’ series.

This week’s Jasper Jams by Emily Rumsey highlights some great music heard at the Firefly Music Festival this past weekend.

Finally, in Sports Kelly Kennedy and Niamh Delargy profiled the first male Jasper dancer.

I hope you enjoy this issue as much as we do.

Until next time.

Sincerely,

Anna Woods

Editor-in-Chief

Join the Quadrangle Looking for writers, photographers and graphic designers.

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SEPTEMBER 28, 2021

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MC Senate Reveals New Administrative Revenue and Budget Plan __________________________ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Diversity Council and Shared Governance is overdue, and other jobs, like rebuilding financial capacity are a direct response to the past year and a half.”

O’Donnell asserts that the working groups will achieve this work as described by Wacker.

“These are problem solving groups meant to be small and agile, and able to take a look at the specific ways that we can make this pivot to be more efficient, more effective and more able to invest in growth in the institution and to move forward by diversifying revenue, by being smarter in the alignment of our programs for undergraduates, by being stronger in retention, and for a financial aid model that is just as effective and powerful as possible,” O’Donnell added at the meeting.

The president also explained that while some of these groups are already in the process of researching and discussing issues, the actual census for this year has not yet been released. Until the census is released, there is no way for administrators to finalize a budget for this academic year.

“At this time of year we’re still in an uncertain position with the budget revenue,” O’Donnell said. “Until we get the census, until we get the official lists of students who are actually attending classes, and we get the census of who’s in our residence halls, it’s really hard for us to have any specificity with regards to the actual number that we’re dealing with for the year.

As of Sept. 20, however, O’Donnell reported that there were 753 new students attending classes and 106 transfer students. This means that as of last week, the enrollment is right around the June budget

goal of 750 new students and slightly below its goal of 125 transfer students.

In terms of on-campus housing occupancy projections, the college reports a rise from 1,200 students in June to 1,319 students in September. While housing is a major revenue source for the college, O’Donnell also addressed a retention rate of returning students to be about 69 students below its goal.

In terms of finance regarding the recent damages caused

by Tropical Storm Henri and Hurricane Ida, the president seems optimistic.

“We made claims in a timely manner and those funds seem to be flowing back right into the institution,” O’Donnell said in regards to the damages caused

by Tropical Storm Henri.

While the college has not yet reported receiving funds for damages caused by Hurricane Ida, O’Donnell told the senate that claims had been made and the administration is awaiting a similar response.

The working groups remained an essential topic for the meeting, with specific attention from faculty on the “Shared Governance” group.

Maeve Adams, Ph.D, senate member and professor of English, raised questions about the forming of this group and why she and other senate members hadn’t heard of the groups having begun work.

“Some of [the working groups] are already up and running and producing results and producing changes, some of [the working groups] are still being populated and staffed and charged,” O’Donnell said in response. “But definitely those teams will be a matter of public knowledge to all, and we’ll be inviting people to be engaged in the process.”

Provost Steven Schreiner, who is also a member of the senate, added that the groups had already been in formation

so that there could be some kind of foundation built and message crafted for the community, so the community would hear a clearer version of the groups’ purpose and mission.

“There will be a broad discussion about that among all constituents, that’s coming so stay tuned,” Schreiner said at the meeting.

Richard Gustavson, Ph.D, senate member and professor of mathematics, expressed concern about the way groups had begun work.

“My concern is the lack of transparency in the creation and inner workings of these groups,” Gustavson wrote to The Quadrangle. “While faculty were consulted in the creation of the Shared Governance working group, it was not clear if any other campus constituencies, including faculty, staff, and students, were involved in the creation and staffing of any of the others. In order for these groups to be successful, they need voices from the entire campus community, and that does not seem to be what is actually happening at this point.”

Wacker adds to this sentiment, and told The Quadrangle, “I believe the success of these working groups will very much depend on who is on them and hope to see that the membership reflects the diversity of the college and all committees have representation from key stakeholders (including faculty, students, and staff).”

O’Donnell emphasized that he intends for these groups to be fluid, so that there are constantly groups ending and beginning. He explained that the groups should address specific issues, create plans and find solutions in an efficient and effective way.

“I was concerned that those committees were formed with fairly limited input from faculty but am hopeful that, given what he said about those focus

groups being “fluid” that more robust principles of co-governance will be allowed to inform the recomposition of those groups going forward,” Adams wrote via email.

O’Donnell told The Quadrangle that these initial groups, such as Shared Governance, were formed by having conversations with vice presidents, directors, deans and “those who work on the ground.”

At the meeting, O’Donnell reported that Amy Handfield, senate speaker for faculty and assistant director for the library, and Margaret Groarke, Ph.D, chair of the Council of Faculty Affairs and political science professor, were brought in to establish the Shared Governance group.

O’Donnell cited Handfield and Groarke as “people with a big vision of the college and people to help us understand the shared vision of governance.”

O’Donnell emphasized again the importance of these working groups to help invest in ways that would grow revenue for the college, and also for there to be an effort to further diversify the alumni activity at the college.

Groarke agreed, saying at the meeting that the alumni pool should extend beyond older generations and those that attended the engineering school.

Faculty at the meeting expressed concern in regards to the actual budgeting of proposed revenue, specifically in regards to restoring salary and benefits that had been cut in the last year.

“There’s been no decisions made on whether the money would be applied to benefits, or towards salary,” O’Donnell told the senate. “I think everybody that is in the conversation is looking for guidance from the community so that we make these decisions in a way that we’re as attentive as possible

to the various needs of individuals. That’s very much under consideration and no decisions have been made. And hearing opinions on that is very important.”

O’Donnell and Schreiner expressed that there was no set timeline for the restorations to be announced or decided, and that the restorations would happen over time, rather than complete restoration at once.

“There should be careful consideration of how to distribute limited funds,” Wacker wrote via email. “The Faculty Welfare Committee, which has already given their guidance to the president on this topic, has done an excellent job of representing the best interests of faculty throughout the entire process of budget constraints and I appreciate their hard work and advocacy for faculty.

At the senate meeting, the president indicated he wanted more groups, including the senate, to weigh in on this matter and thus I am happy to reach out to my constituents, gather their feedback, and represent their interests.”

The census is reported to be discussed at the Oct. 21 Board of Trustees meeting, and a conversation with the community will then come to discuss a revised budget.

At the senate meeting, O’Donnell did agree to have the administration create a document that outlines possible options and tradeoffs that the senate members can bring to their constituents and provide feedback.

“It’s really crucial that we ensure that our voices are being heard, something that has been challenging during a pandemic that made it difficult to connect meaningfully with one another,” Adams told The Quadrangle. “It’s an opportunity to reaffirm and clarify what we mean by co-governance and how we can genuinely pursue it.”

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Features

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Tiffany French Talks Being Out at Work for LWGRC’s “Slow Burn” Series Christine Nappi & Jilleen Barrett Features Editor & A&E Editor

Honoring yourself and your boundaries is something that Tiffany French, assistant dean of the school of engineering, finds crucial when it comes to life, work, relationships and identity. Identifying as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, French is passionate about staying true to who you are, especially in the workplace. On Sept. 22, French gave a talk titled “Bringing Your Authentic Self: Being Out at Work,” as a part of the Slow Burn series.

Her talk shed light on how those in the LGBTQ+ community can feel comfortable, and how allies can help them in doing so.

The Slow Burn series is a program that creates conversations around community, careers, relationships, selfcare, stress and exhaustion.

Run by the Lasallian Women and Gender Resource Center, Slow Burn features the stories of faculty, students and administrators on how they find balance and overcome burnout.

This edition of Slow Burn was co-hosted by Women in Business and the Society of Women Engineers, and covered the topic of coming out in the workplace.

“I think Slow Burn is a really nice addition to the Lasallian Women and Gender Center programming, because I think during COVID especially folx are experiencing burnout at higher rates,” French said. “It’s just much more common and I think we all felt it in different ways … I think the more we raise awareness around the two is important because I think it’s one of those, we have such a strong culture and I think America in general, where we value work so much more than we value work life balance.”

French began the event by talking about her personal experiences and eventually discussed important lessons she’s learned throughout life in the hopes of helping others in the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. One method that French discussed to help others, especially LGBTQ+ folx as she describes, is the Recognize, Allow, Investigate, and Nurture (RAIN) method by psychologist Tara Brach. In a situation where one may feel rejected for your identity, French encourages that one should recognize what they are feeling, allow that emotion in, investigate where they feel it, and then nurture it.

To nurture the feeling, French recommends that one acts as their own best friend.

“Nurturing is essentially treating yourself as your own best friend,” French said.

“Rather than getting that cycle of like, ‘well, you know, I’m not worthy’ because this is the way the world feels about me or what have you. It’s talking to yourself like your best friend would. Because you wouldn’t let your best friend say that about themselves….so once you start to kind of feel that way about how you’re feeling, it does make a difference. So, the big takeaway is kind of befriend yourself as much as you can… [and] just try to remember that when times get a little tough, try to love yourself because it helps you love other people.”

Another topic that French discussed is seeing oneself as being worthy. As she describes, it can be easy for LGBTQ+ folx and others to feel not worthy or feel the need to overcompensate and be productive, however, she recommends for one to rest and practice self-care.

“You are worthy as you are and I think that’s important to note for LGBTQ folx, and everybody, frankly, is that you are worthy as you are,” French said. “And I will say this to people so my friends in the audience will know this, there’s no suffering. So as much as you can sit there and say well I need to do this or oh I need to do that and I need to add that– just say no, you do not get a gold medal in suffering at the end of it, so you need to say no, say no because if you’re feeling burned out, you cannot pour from an empty cup” Despite French’s encouraging words, she notes how the LGBTQ+ community is still facing discrimination, particularly in the field of STEM, and that there is still work that needs to be done to accomplish genuine inclusivity and acceptance in all aspects of life. To do so, French encourages the community to take action and outlines the many ways allies can help accomplish this goal.

She recommends allies show support, ask for pronouns, educate themselves, be mindful, update their language and phrases when referencing the LGBTQ community and hang a pride flag. As French describes, small acts like these can make a big difference.

“A lot of LGBTQ folx, look for those little signs to know, ‘is this space okay for me?’,” French said. “So I think having those things up and having it be visible, you know, making sure that those folx can see that on the way in, then they get the

Tiffany French spoke about coming out at work during the Lasallain Women and Gender Resource Center’s Slow Burn talk on Sept. 22.

CHRISTINE NAPPI / THE QUADRANGLE signal [saying], you know, ‘this is fine with us you know you can be who you are here.’”

As for folx in the LGBTQ community who are looking to come out at work or adapt their comfort levels, French recommends prioritizing your safety, knowing your employer well, knowing your rights, and asking about your company’s resources, values and non-discrimination policies.

Creating a comfortable and inclusive environment at work is important, as French describes because it can help improve your performance.

“Support folx who might be at different places and their coming out journeys,” French said. “It does improve retention, it improves belonging, so it makes folks happier at work, it actually makes you more likely to get promoted at work because you feel included and you’re probably performing a little bit better.”

To help implement feelings of comfort among the college community, French and other faculty members are starting an employee resource group on campus specifically for those in the LGBTQ+ community, in addition to the Rainbow Jaspers group, which is specifically for students. Her hope with this group is that staff, faculty and administrators will not only have a place to go where they can be their authentic selves but will also have a support system. French personally found her co-workers to be accepting and welcoming of her authentic self, and she hopes to make others feel the same. “There are people out there for you if you want them and need them, and I’m happy to be that person if somebody needs that,” French said. “There’s a place for you here, and there are people here

who want to be there for you if you need it. I was lucky to experience that on my own, and if I can do that for somebody else, I’m happy to do it.”

French concluded her talk by giving some final pointers on being authentic, to help those who are looking to stay true to themselves and avoid burnout. To check in on your feelings, she recommends asking yourself when you last felt energized, when you last felt confident, and what you would do on a day with no responsibilities. She encourages you to list the things that make you feel like you and incorporate that into your day-to-day life to foster your true authentic self, and be comfortable with who you are.

Event attendee Megan Amore, a sophomore communication major, particularly resonated with French’s advice.

She appreciated the safe space French created to discuss a topic such as this and learned the importance of feeling confident and comfortable in any given situation.

“When [French] showed the slide that was like, ask yourself what the last thing you did that make yourself feel confident and what were you doing, where’s your happy place and things like that, [it] definitely put it into my mind you need to think about those things,” Amore said. “You need to really focus on making sure that you feel comfortable with yourself in that way and to know that if you don’t, that you should adjust some things for yourself. So I think that was really eye-opening for me.”

Amore also described how the talk fostered a sense of community, new perspectives, and learnings for students who are about to enter the work-

force. “[The talk] definitely creates a sense of community, because you feel like there are other people who maybe are going through similar things to you, or you get to hear different perspectives of things that you might not have thought about before,” Amore said. “And especially when you’re going into a workforce after college like none of us really know what to expect in that sense, so, to know that you know there are people in the workforce that are looking out for you or they can like help you figure out how to navigate through that especially in something like coming out at work, it’s comforting.”

Ashley Hickey, the president of the Society of Women Engineers, spoke about the turnout for the event and how French put extra thought into how she took questions from her audience.

“One of the advisors asked a question, but [French] also gave the option to email her questions if it was a more personal issue,” Hickey said. “So she set up a QR code to scan and email her so that it was more anonymous so that if someone wanted to talk to her, they didn’t have to do it in front of everyone, which I thought was really cool and really thoughtful for her to think of.”

Finally, French also addressed the changes that needed to be made culturally as well as within Manhattan College.

“True belonging doesn’t require you to change who you are to be who you are,” French said. “It’s important to know that the culture is changing, we will get there, but it doesn’t get there by you adapting to the culture, the culture has to adapt.”

Features

SEPTEMBER 28, 2021

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“Undeniable” Russell Craig Featured in Student Lecture Series Megan LaCreta Staff Writer

On Tuesday, Sept. 21, the Black Student Union and Student Engagement co-sponsored a talk with Brooklyn-based artist Russell Craig, to kick off the 10th Annual Student Engagement Lecture Series.

Senior international studies major and BSU co-president Mamady Ballo interviewed Craig, whose art puts the social and political front and center as having been inspired by his experiences in foster care and the prison system.

“Throughout my childhood, I was a foster kid, so my interest in art started a long time ago because I would be in my own world, and art was like a focus to get my mind off of the things that I was going through,” Craig said. “And eventually as I got older, I ended up in the prison system. So then I was like reconnected with art and… the same way as when I was in the foster care system, it was like a distraction from my situation, so I used that same mindset inside of prison, and then started to think that I could be an artist once I leave.”

After Craig left prison, he got a job working as an artist with an organization called Mural Arts Philadelphia. Since then, his work has been featured in the Philadelphia African American Museum, at the 2016 Democratic National Convention and one of his pieces was even recently acquired by the Brooklyn Museum as a part of their permanent collection, to be displayed alongside the

likes of Picasso and Basquiat, an achievement Craig is particularly proud of.

“Don’t ever let the light tell y’all to give up on your dreams,” Craig said. “We keep talking about manifestation and all of that, it’s not a game, it’s so real. I came to New York two years ago and I sat in front of the Brooklyn Museum and I just watched. They had a Trinidadian parade going on. And I would just sit there watching and now I’m in the permanent collection.”

In light of Craig’s success, Ballo asked him for his own definition of Black excellence.

“I mean it’s like big success,” Craig said. “And then once you get that success, to try to help people and things like that, and that might go beyond yourself. What do you do for others, that’s an example of Black excellence.”

Ballo had good reason to ask the artist about Black excellence, since the BSU has been working to install a Black excellence mural on campus for the past year, in light of the Black Lives Matter protests of the summer of 2020. “[The BSU] created a list of demands, and the things that we wanted, and we have indicated that we want a Black excellence, like a physical representation on campus that represents us, so when we come on campus we feel like we belong,” Ballo said.

Craig was interested to hear about Ballo’s ideas for the mural and even offered to assist with supplies and in finding an artist to take on the task.

Senior psychology major Johanna Dalo was in attendance at

This piece created by Russell Craig, was created as a part of his ‘Art for Justice Fund,’ meant to help under-resourced communities.

ART FOR JUSTICE FUND/ COURTESY the event and expressed what it meant to her for Craig to be a part of the mural process.

“It’s very encouraging, especially regarding his history and life story,” wrote Dalo in an email to The Quadrangle.

“I think him playing a role is meaningful because he is an

example of Black Excellence.”

Craig has certainly achieved excellence both in his field and in his personal life. Not only is Craig’s art displayed among the greats, but he taught himself how to read and write, and earned his GED. He is currently working on his next project,

which is a series on the idea of conflict. Craig described how he keeps himself motivated, to continue to reach new levels of success.

“One of my mottos is ‘become jim undeniable,’” said Craig. “So that’s what I did.”

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Arts & Entertainment

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Jasper Jams: Firefly Festival Edition JASPER JAMS Emily Rumsey Staff Writer

With the popular Firefly festival happening this weekend, I thought it only right to make it this week’s theme for Jasper Jams. This year, the festival lasts four days spanning one weekend starting Thursday, September 23rd. The lineup includes a diverse range of artists, the headliners being Billie Eilish, Lizzo, Tame Impala and — your mom’s favorite band — The Killers.

I Didn’t Change My Number - Billie Eilish Billie Eilish was the Thursday night headliner. She was originally supposed to headline the 2020 Firefly Music Festival, but it got cancelled due to the pandemic, which makes this the first time she has ever played the festival. Her appearance at Firefly comes after the release of her second studio album Happier Than Ever. “I Didn’t Change My Number” is the second song on the album.

The song seems to have heavy R&B influence, which in my opinion matches the tone of Eilish’s voice quite well.

Jenny Was A Friend of Mine - The Killers

Headlining the second night of Firefly will be The Killers. The Killers are a Firefly favorite, performing at the first Firefly Music Festival back in 2012, and then returning three more times after that in 2015, 2018 and then this year, 2021.

I chose “Jenny Was A Friend of Mine” because not only is it one of the lesser known hits from The Killers, it also is a great song to blast in the car and it’s super easy to get lost in the vibe. I highly recommend it as a karaoke choice also, because once you know the words it’s a super satisfying song to scream to with your friends. la

Borderline - Tame Impa-

Tame Impala was the Saturday night headliner, and is making his second appearance at Firefly. He performed at the festival once before in 2016. I chose this song because every time I hear it I always think of my roommate, since she used to play it all the time during our freshman year, and now wakes up to it as her alarm tone. Despite this, I can’t seem to get tired of it! Tame Impala always strikes me with strong bass lines that really add to the distinct sound that he is known for. This song features a groovy bass, with a satisfying drop and a funky pop vibe the whole way through.

Rumors - Lizzo (feat.

Cardi B) Lizzo is the final headliner for the weekend, taking over Sunday. This is also Lizzo’s second time performing at Firefly, her first time being in 2015.

“Rumors” is her most recent release, dropping just over a month ago on August 13th, and is her first release in over two years. The song features Cardi B, and is a wonderful combination of humble brags, shut downs, and jabs towards past rumors and scandals experienced by both singers. “Rumors” is Lizzo’s clapback after running the online gauntlet during the release of her album “Cuz I Love You”.

Blackbear is performing at Firefly for the very first time this year. He is not a new artist, however, as he just released his sixth studio album last year. I had heard of blackbear around 2017 when his sophomore album digital druglord started gaining popularity. I chose a more recent song from him, the lead single on his album everything means nothing, released August 2020. “Hot Girl Bummer” is a song that was released a little before the pandemic, which is when I found the song, so the hot girl summer/bummer word play was hitting home. It was definitely on my walking playlist in those early pandemic months.

Ain’t No Rest For The Wicked - Cage the Elephant Cage the Elephant is one of the many performances happening over the four day festival. They are also Firefly veterans, performing at the festival in 2014 and 2015. I chose their most popular song for this playlist because it is a classic. The guitar is gritty and the lyrics have a great rhythm that keeps you engaged throughout the length of the song. I personally love this song because it was one of the 15 songs on the iPod Nano I had as a kid.

I Think I’m OKAY Machine Gun Kelly (feat.

YUNGBLUD, Travis Barker)

Machine Gun Kelly is appearing at Firefly for the first time this year. I am honestly surprised he hasn’t performed at the festival before. But he is performing at the festival about a year after releasing his album Tickets to my Downfall, the first of his albums to be fully rock based. He will be performing at Firefly along with longtime friend blackbear, and his upcoming tour opener carolesdaughter. This song was recommended to me by my roommate, who puts it on every single time we get ready to go out because she thinks it is one of the best hype songs.

Put Your Records On Ritt Momney Ritt Momney is a young singer-songwriter who recently broke out on the musical scene

after his cover of Corrine Bailey Rae’s 2006 hit “Put Your Records On” went super viral on TikTok. He is performing at Firefly for the first time this year. His spoonerism name is what caught my eye first, but after listening to some of his other songs I actually ended up liking his style. The cover is a great representation of his style, and he did a very good job making it his own. He did receive Twitter backlash after the song went viral, as it was written by a Black woman about loving her hair, and makes a lot of references to Black culture.

Ritt released a statement on Twitter agreeing with the criticisms, apologizing and promising to do better in the future, which I think is a good look for him.

I Don’t Want It At All Kim Petras Kim Petras is performing at Firefly Music Festival for the first time this year. I chose her debut single for this playlist because it is the perfect introduction to Kim Petras’s electro-bubblegum pop sound.

The song went viral in 2017 and the music video featured a cameo from Paris Hilton. Petras then went on to feature on a track with Charli XCX shortly after the single was released. “I Don’t Want It At All” is a boppy, upbeat track that is sure to get you hype.

Liz - Remi Wolf Remi Wolf is another Firefly first timer. She has only recently broken out on the scene, with her song “Photo ID” going viral on Tik Tok. I chose her song “Liz” however, because it shows a different side of Remi Wolf. One of my co-workers showed me this song over the summer, because the cool bartender that worked with us was called Liz. The song has a more slow jam vibe, and is a story about an on and off again relationship with a girl who is bad for Wolf, but she can’t seem to get over her. If you’re just finding out about Remi Wolf, or maybe just haven’t heard this song by her before, I definitely recommend you check it out.

Hot Girl Bummer - blackbear

Scan here to listen to The Quadrangle’s playlist!

Arts & Entertainment

7

Caroline King is a Queen of Style

SEPTEMBER 28, 2021

FASHION FINDS Lauren Raziano Social Media Editor

Caroline King is the queen of fashion sense. A junior double major in history and international studies with a minor in women and gender studies, she takes her fashion inspiration from 90’s celebrities and local Instagram influencers.

Her style has definitely changed from her Lily Pulitzer school days in Scranton, PA to a platform shoe, jewelry wearing college student in New York City.

The Quadrangle: How would you describe your fashion sense?

Caroline King: I try and find inspiration for a lot of what I wear from the 90’s like, off duty models or 90’s actresses and also alternative music culture, a lot of it comes from mu-

sic I would say.

TQ: Who recently have you been looking to for fashion inspiration?

CK: I feel like everybody right now is obsessed with, not even so much Emma Chamberlain’s like clothes as much as her vibe right like what she’s doing right now. I think she’s so cool and so relatable. Also I love Emma Chamberlain, I love Bella Hadid, I really love Drew Barrymore style from the 90s and Winona Ryder. Also Ruby @Rubylyn_ on Instagram.

She’s just like an influencer that lives in the city. She recently got a following on Instagram but I take a lot of inspiration from her clothes, I think she’s so cool.

TQ: Do you think your style has changed since attending Manhattan College?

CK: A lot. In high school, I definitely didn’t really know what I wanted to wear and in

Converse are a staple in King’s wardrobe. “Any sort of platform, Converse and Doc Martens. I feel like if you’re wearing platform shoes, your outfits automatically are 10 times better.”

CAROLINE KING / COURTESY

middle school I had my preppy stage, like Lilly Pulitzer, but I feel like everybody kind of went through that around 2015.

When I came to school in New York and during quarantine, I feel like I’ve finally found out what I wanted to wear. I get a lot of inspiration for what I want to wear from my friends to seeing people in the city street style. I changed a lot of music I listened to and that definitely changed how I dress a lot.

It was definitely a long road to finding how I want to dress now, but now that I feel like I am there. I was telling my sisters this when we were going on vacation over the summer — every trip I packed for, it was so easy because all the pants I have now match all my shirts, so it’s an interchangeable wardrobe and I feel like everything fits who I want to be.

TQ: What is a staple clothing item in your wardrobe?

CK: A black miniskirt. I wear it four times a week. I think everybody needs a pair of Levi’s that fit perfectly, that’s my favorite thing in the entire world. A good baby tee that fits you really well. I like graphic tees, they just go with everything, go with jeans or they could go with a miniskirt and platforms. Any sort of platform, Converse and Doc Martens. I feel like if you’re wearing platform shoes, your outfits automatically are 10 times better.

TQ: What is your go-to accessor y?

CK: My jewelry, for sure. I always wear a bunch of different necklaces and my rings.

I wear a lot of rings, and my lock-and-key earrings. I’m not a big purse person or really into belts. I would say my rings, and my necklaces mostly. I always like to layer them.

TQ: What are your favorite places to get items?

Where do you like to shop?

CK: So most of my things come from thrift stores. I actually kind of hate thrifting in New York, because it’s so expensive. I’ll go to the Salvation Army or Goodwill in Scranton and Levi’s are $4 and then I come here and go to Brooklyn and they’re $150 … But, I love shopping at my Salvation Army at home, I found my black miniskirt, my Levi’s, everything there. But I also like depop sometimes if I’m looking for a designer, higher end item. It’s bad but I love Brandy Melville T-shirts. They just fit so well, and I know they’re terrible but once in a while I just have to give in and buy a t-shirt or a skirt from there because they just fit so well.

TQ: What is your advice to people who want to ex-

King poses with her pink platform shoes paired with skull tights and black and white garments.

CAROLINE KING / COURTESY plore with their style?

CK: It could be nerve-wracking to wear what you want, or wear something that you think not a lot of people will think is really cute or that some people might think is ugly, but if you like it, why not wear it? I’ve definitely worn some questionable outfits, but if I like it, I’m happy going out, and it’s me then I’m gonna wear it. When I get dressed I feel like my clothes say more about the person I am. They speak before I do so when I walk into a room, my clothes introduce the person I am before, like I say my name.

I feel like it can really communicate who you are. So that’s why I feel finding how you want to dress, taking pride in it is so important because it’s the first thing people see when you walk into a room ... Don’t buy into trends, because you’ll regret it, at least in my personal experience. I would say go for more timeless pieces like

plain pieces to start out. Then start to buy accent pieces so I’d start with plain basics jeans, plain mini skirts, more simple t-shirts, and simple silhouettes black dresses. And then you could start branching out and finding pieces that fit what you feel as though it fits your personal style.

TQ: Anything you would like to add about your style influences?

CK: My friends inspire me a lot. My friend Trey now works at a couple thrift stores in Brooklyn and he’s having popup shops and he is always fitted up, always looking so fresh.

Same with my friend Chris, and my friend Jackson, it inspires me so much. when I’m going to hang out with them, I’m like, ‘Oh, I gotta put on a good outfit’ because I know they’re gonna be looking really good so they always are inspiring me to keep elevating my style and keep trying new things.

Arts & Entertainment

8

THE QUADRANGLE

WRCM Back on the Airwaves Nicole Fitzsimmons & Jocelyn Visnov News Editor & Asst. Production Editor

Following a challenging hybrid spring semester, Manhattan College’s own radio station, WRCM, shut down their airwaves for safety. Yet, as the college continues to reopen for in-person activities, WRCM has announced that radio shows will resume during this fall semester with increased precautions.

During the spring 2021 semester, rising COVID-19 cases and quarantine procedures amongst DJs led to the decision to cancel all radio shows for the time-being. What began as a suspension of shows for a week, led to the cancellation of the semester. This was a difficult decision not only considering the passion from the hosts, but also that the radio station had only been running since the spring of 2019 following its closure for a decade.

“When WRCM closed for the spring semester I was saddened, but understood. Having so many members be quarantined, not enough members were left to be able to cover and

WRCM gives MC students a platform to showcase their musical interists and tastes, “I just think everyone should just listen to WRCM. We have a lot of talented creators, and a lot of motivated people.” @WRCM.ROCKS / COURTESY

Students interested in working with WRCM are encouraged to reach out. You can either check out the radio booth at the front of the LRC building or by checking out either the instagram or the website. @WRCM.ROCKS / COURTESY

we were not able to provide the same level of programming that we had during the fall semester,” Kate Uffer, webmaster of WRCM, wrote in an email to the Quadrangle. “By the time it would have been safe to reopen, finals would be approaching, and it would be difficult for DJs to run shows that hadn’t been aired in 3-4 weeks.”

The determination of DJs, faculty and students has led to the decision for the radio station to reopen at full force during this fall semester while following the advanced safety and precautionary measures of the college. Uffer is hopeful that these precautions will lead to a smooth transition of having people back in the booth.

“By following all protocols laid out thus by Manhattan College, I believe that WRCM can have a safe and healthy semester: following the green pass system, mandating masks at all times within the booths and wiping down between shows minimizes any chances of disease spread,” Uffer wrote.

Despite the closure of WRCM for an entire semester, followed by the summer break, radio hosts are still determined to air their shows as they once did during the earlier semes-

ters. Emily Daly, junior electrical engineering major and music minor, works as the tech director of WRCM and also co-hosts a rock themed radio show with Emily Lavelle. Daly emphasized in an email to the Quadrangle that following the radio station’s closure, she is excited to see WRCM grow and to continue hosting her show as usual.

“Even after this break, we are planning to run the show as usual. Of course, after half a semester and a summer break, there are new releases and more fun facts to broadcast, but nothing else will really be changing in terms of content,” Daly wrote.

Chris Bagdonas, a junior communication major, had joined the WRCM staff just before the closure last semester.

Even with the rocky start, Bagdonas found a lot of joy in his radio show at WRCM. “WRCM is so accommodating of so many different types of radio shows like me with sports and talk radio shows,” he said.

“It’s a good stress reliever. You could just go in there for an hour, and just play your favorite music. And just like, you know, it’s content for people to listen to, but it’s also a way for you to

just escape after class.”

Bagdonas encourages anyone interested in checking out the booth to do so and to be part, either as a listener or a host, to the growing and passionate community.

“I just think everyone should just listen to WRCM. We have a lot of talented creators, and a lot of motivated people,” Bagdonas said.

WRCM back on campus is a way for students to continue to voice their opinions, their interests all while meeting new people. Following a long and chaotic break, students need this more than ever.

“WRCM has added so much to the Manhattan College community in the two-ish years that I have been on campus. I am so happy to be able to see it’s growth, and I hope that it continues to expand this year,” Daly wrote.

Whether you’re interested in sports, entertainment, or just sharing your taste in music, all students are welcome to check out the WRCM booth. You can tune in to WRCM by searching www.wrcm.rocks or keep up to date with WRCM by following them on Instagram, @wrcm. rocks.

Sports

SEPTEMBER 28, 2021

9

Jose Perez Returns Home to Finish College Career Kelly Cwick

Asst. A&E Editor Manhattan point guard Jose Perez is glad to be back in the Bronx after transferring from Marquette University. The Jaspers are the third team Perez will play for after spending his first two seasons at Gardner-Webb University.

Prior to MC, Perez made national headlines with his performance. He is one of only two freshmen who had a triple double during the 2018-2019 season with the other being current Knicks star R.J. Barrett.

In that same season, he broke Gardner-Webb’s freshmen single season scoring record with 526 points which was only behind Hall of Famer and former NBA All-Star John Drew.

The Quad caught up with Perez to discuss his decision to transfer to Manhattan and his expectations for the season.

The Quadrangle: Why did you decide to transfer to Manhattan College?

Jose Perez: I had a great relationship with Coach Stores and Coach Masiello. They re-

cruited me at a very young age.

It was my first scholarship offer and I felt like I was ready to come home for my last year.

TQ: What has the student-athlete experience been like at MC so far?

JP: It’s been regular. I have class on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and then practice and lift, so that’s my schedule throughout the day.

TQ: What’s the most special memor y you have from playing basketball throughout the years?

JP: My freshman year we [Gardner-Webb] went to the NCAA tournament, almost beat the defending champs [Virginia], had a pretty good game that game as far as being my most memorable.

TQ: What is the culture and dynamic around the program like?

JP: It’s very good just adjusting to it, adjusting to new things, people on campus, everything just adjusting. I was down south then I went to the midwest and now I’m back home so I know a little bit about everything.

TQ: What are you looking forward to most for the upcoming season?

JP: Getting back to the NCAA tournament. I know Coach [Masiello] hasn’t been back there as a team and I know it’s been a couple of rough seasons. I feel like we have a high major roster here.

TQ: Do you have any personal goals for the season?

JP: I just want to win. Personal goals come with winning.

I noticed that my freshman year the more you win the more everybody eats.

TQ: What are your career ambitions for after college?

JP: Pro. Coming out of my freshman and sophomore year I had some buzz. I just want to get back to that.

TQ: Do you have a favorite professional athlete you look up to?

JP: Carmelo is probably one of them. Eric Paschall, I’m very close with him. I’m very close with a couple NBA players.

TQ: What’s your favorite part about New York City, now that you’re back?

JP: I’m from here, so it’s probably the atmosphere. I heard that the Iona-Manhattan game’s atmosphere is ridiculous. I heard the Fordham-Manhattan game is as well.

Jose Perez is settling into his new school after previous stops at Gardner-Webb and Marquette JOSE PEREZ / COURTESY

Manhattan Suffers Setback to LIU Pete Janny Sports Editor

The Manhattan men’s soccer team had a setback against the LIU Sharks by suffering a 4-0 loss at Gaelic Park last Tuesday. With the result, the Jaspers closed out non-conference play on a bad note and now sit with a record of 2-3-1.

The Jaspers looked uneven early on and could never quite recover after falling behind 2-0 in the first half.

The Sharks played off each other with ease and were able to break down the Manhattan defense with their passing in the final third.

The game got out of reach in the 59th minute when Emil Jaaskelainen converted on a volley attempt off an assist from Ben Fall. The Sharks then put the finishing touches on their win with a fourth goal in the 86th minute. The four-goal margin of defeat was the largest for Manhattan since losing 5-0 to Monmouth on March 18.

Manhattan was outpaced 15-8 in shots, including 6-1 for

shots on goal. The shot total surprisingly surpassed their six attempts against Fordham despite beating the Rams 1-0.

Simon Busch and Brandon Joseph-Buadi were active throughout and each got one shot off to lead the Jaspers attack.

Manhattan was not able to unleash the speedy Joseph-Buadi as much as they would have liked during the non-conference. Credited for the assist on the game-winning goal against Fordham, Joseph-Buadi had a couple nice runs with the ball in the first half but nothing came of them. He was at the center of Manhattan’s best chance in the first half but his shot from the left side went wide of the goal.

Joseph-Buadi has 15 goals in his career for the Jaspers but will now have to wait until the MAAC season to get on the board this Fall. But Joseph-Buadi believes in the potential of the offense and is expected to be a key cog for the Jaspers as they embark on their MAAC campaign.

“Personally I think our biggest strength is the attacking threat,” Joseph-Buadi told the

Quad before the LIU game.

“We have multiple players who all offer something different.

Whether it’s pace going forward, skill or a goal scoring threat.”

That’s essentially a vote of confidence in the likes of Johan Velez and Oswald Annang who have combined to score five goals this season. Especially in light of some defensive struggles, the need for offensive contributions becomes more important.

“I think our team’s biggest strength is our mindset to not give up until the final whistle,” Annang said. “If you look back to some of the past games, you can tell we fought hard to get results.”

The lopsided result against LIU was not anticipated after the Sharks tied both Columbia and Fordham; two teams that Manhattan tied and won against respectively. According to Annang, the team takes nothing for granted against their opponents and is instead focused on their own preparation.

“We prepare to go against any team by trying to know their strengths in order to stop

Freshman Ronan O’Brien dribbles the ball in the midfield during the LIU game which the Jaspers lost 4-0.

GO JASPERS / COURTESY them,” Annang said. “And find their weaknesses and use that to help us.”

Manhattan will next be in

action when they host Iona (2-3-1) on Sept. 29. Kick off is scheduled for 3 p.m. at Gaelic Park.

10

Sports

THE QUADRANGLE

MC Dance Team Welcomes First Male Jasper Dancer Kelly Kennedy & Niamh Delargy

Asst. Social Media Editor & Contributor Having wrapped up their 2021-2022 auditions, the new Jasper Dancers may look a little different than in years past as they welcome their first ever male dancer. John O’Connor is a junior management major who has made history with his accomplishment of being able the first male Jasper Dancer. The Quad sat down with O’Connor to learn more about his experiences as a dancer as well as what the opportunity to join the Jasper Dancers means to him.

The Quadrangle: What made you want to audition for the Jaspers Dancers?

John O’Connor: So growing up, I was very much into theater. I’ve been used to performing. And then as I got into high school, I became more invested in dancing. And then when I came to college, I was finally ready to leave it all behind. But after COVID happened, I realized that I missed it a lot. So after I found out about

auditions I decided to just give it a shot because I knew if I didn’t try now I probably never would. So I tried out, and now here we are.

TQ:What was the audition process like?

JO: So this year the team got two new coaches, Liz Henrick and Taylor Post. They hosted two clinics, just to kind of get the current dancers on the team used to their teaching style and work with them, and then also to kind of get people to come out and see what it was like. The day started off with just warming up, and then we transitioned to do different exercises across the floor such as pirouettes and leaps, a bunch of exercises like that. We then learned a hip hop routine and a jazz routine from two guest judges who were really amazing.

TQ: What are some of your previous experiences with dance?

JO: Originally, for me, dance was just part of theater.

I never really looked at it as something I was super strong in. Then I did a production of “Chorus Line” in high school which is a very dance heavy show. And I kind of just fell in

Manhattan College Jasper Dancers welcomes their first male member, John O’Connor as a welcomed addition to the team.

JOHN O’CONNOR / COURTESY love with it and realized that it was something I actually was good at. I just kept working hard and I began loving

O’Connor with the rest of his new teammmates, the Jasper Dancers.

JOHN O’CONNOR / COURTESY

it and eventually I joined the Broadway Dance Center Junior training program. It was a very intensive program for high school students, and it was amazing getting to train with dance teachers from across the world.

TQ: What are your favorite dance styles and why?

JO: So one of my all time favorite dance styles has always been tap. I’ve always loved tap dance, it’s something you don’t see as often but it’s just so satisfying when you get the right sounds going. There’s also so much room for emotion. And I also really like jazz because jazz is so broad, it can be super fast, high energy or super hard hitting. Jazz also leaves a lot of room for you to show emotion while you perform. I’m really into showing emotion while dancing because I feel like that really makes the performance.

TQ: Are there any dancers who inspire you?

JO: There are so many, but in particular I really look up to Ben Tyler Cook and Tommy Bracco. They’re both amazing dancers who have performed on Broadway. I’ve been following them since I was little.

TQ: What are you most excited for this upcoming season?

JO: I think I’m just excited to grow as a team. Being the only boy, so far it has actually

been a really good learning experience on and off the floor.

I’ve learned so much already just from watching the girls dance. They work as such a unit and that’s something I really want to push to do. It’s.

First of all, I’m the only guy on the team and second of all, I’m six feet tall. So I obviously like much different from the rest of the people on the team but I think something I really want to work on is blending. I’m also super excited for Manhattan Madness since we didn’t have one in person last year.

TQ: How do you feel about being the first male Jasper Dancer?

JO: I think it’s great. One of the main things I think pushed me away from trying out was kind of the fear of being the only boy. I feel like this happens for a lot of guys in dance.

This factor kind of deters you from pushing and trying. But now that I’m actually here, it’s first of all a great learning experience but also I hope that just being a part of the team can help inspire other boys to try out as well. There could be many other male dancers who have wanted to try out but were too intimidated, so maybe soon we could become a full co-ed team that can bring more to the table. I may be the only guy on the team for now, but hopefully we can start a chain reaction.