Issue 3, Spring 2021 - The Quadrangle

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NEW YORK, FEBRUARY 16 2021

Students Meet with Legislators for a Cause: NYS Advocacy Day Nicole Fitzsimmons News Ediotr

Locke’s Loft to Reopen Locke’s Loft will reopen for indoor dining at a limited capacity in accordance with new COVID restrictions BRIAN ASARE/ THE QUADRANGLE

Locke’s Unlocks Indoor Dining Option for Students Lauren Raziano Social Media Editor

With the reopening of indoor dining across New York City on Friday, Feb. 12, Locke’s Loft is beginning to plan their reopening within the upcoming weeks to allow Manhattan College students a place to dine-in on campus.

“The dining services staff is excited to see our students again and provide them with the fuel to get them through their day,” dining services said.

On Feb. 8 Governor Cuomo announced that indoor dining could reopen in New York City at 25 percent capacity beginning Feb. 12. The reopening of indoor dining was previously scheduled for Valentine’s Day, but restaurants requested an earlier reopening date to allow staff to prepare and return prof-

IN NEWS:

On Campus Positive Test Average Increases to 2.4% p. 3

it.

At Manhattan College, Locke’s Loft is expected to reopen indoor dining at 25% capacity on Monday, Feb. 22. The Manhattan College administration and dining services team chose to delay indoor dining as a preventive measure for the safety of students and staff.

“The dining services team is working in conjunction with the administration at Manhattan College. Therefore, this date was determined as an extra precaution to ensure the safety of the Manhattan College community as a whole,” dining services said.

The dining hall will be following all of the COVID-19 guidelines directed by the state, such as sanitation, capacity and distancing guidelines.

“We will implement the seating capacity by assigning designated seating areas that adhere

IN FEATURES: Riverdale Rises: Highlighting Claudy’s Kitchen on p. 4

to social distancing guidelines implemented by state and local governments,” dining services said.

Ken Waldhof, director of business services, works closely with the college’s dining services team and is looking forward to students dining indoors and is aware of the expectations of COVID-19 restrictions.

“Students and all diners should be respectful of the Covid mandates of social distancing, hand washing and wearing a mask,” Waldorf said.

An issue with indoor dining assignments arose last semester as some students were moving chairs and tables closer in the dining area to sit near their friends. The dining hall staff __________________________ CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

Manhattan College students were given a chance to voice their opinions and concerns regarding the status of financial aid in New York State to legislators during Advocacy Day on February 8th and 9th.

An event that is usually held in-person, New York State Advocacy Day was held virtually this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Still, students from across New York State were given a chance to speak with local representatives about funding for tuition and opportunity programs.

“Each year NYSACAC members are encouraged to meet with their legislators in Albany to advocate for student aid, resources for college counseling, and legislation that will lower barriers to college access and success for students across the state,” stated the New York State Association for College Admission Counseling’s website.

During these discussions with legislators, students are able to tell stories about their own experiences, and share why aid is so important to them. No advocacy experience is needed, and it is usually a rally-like environment of students advocating for a cause. These issues are extremely important as state and local budgets are facing cuts.

On the event’s website, students this year were able to submit video or written testimonials to show support for student aid funding and higher education as well.

For Manhattan, it was important to students to voice their concern over the cutting of Bundy funding, which provides aid to private universities.

Other concerns included maintaining direct TAP and HEOP funding, along with aid from CSTEP AND HEOP. Opportunity programs are also greatly impacted by state funding. Director of Opportunity Programs, Andy Burns, addresses the importance of

IN A&E:

Athletics Meet the Arts for Black History Month on p. 8

maintaining funding for programs that can greatly promote inclusivity for all students at Manhattan.

“These programs are partnerships between the College and the New York State Education Department (NYSED) and the funds received allows us to enhance services to eligible students. Opportunity Programs complement our Lasallian values and heritage, and why there is such a commitment to these efforts from students and administrators alike,” Burns said.

Giving students a chance to speak directly to local legislators allows for these government officials to see who the funding really helps, and allows legislators to hear from their constituents themselves.

“I think this is important because as costs increase, aid is important. State aid is important, you know, we want students to advocate for themselves. TAP hasn’t changed in over ten years, so when students advocate for themselves, this goes into their accounts,” Director of Financial Aid, Denise Scalzo, said.

Scalzo and Burns also emphasize how the programs and assistance from funding helps promote an inclusive community where all students can begin to close the gap between cost of attendance and help all students.

Students’ advocacy for these programs illustrates the importance they feel in being a student and experiencing the college environment. Beyond this, students from all backgrounds are represented and able to speak for themselves about why aid is important.

“The students are vested in these programs, along with their ability to secure a high-level degree from a private institution like Manhattan College. As such, they see the value and the necessity to advocate for themselves, and why we always get a strong turnout from students travelling to Albany in years past,” Burns said.

IN SPORTS:

Jared Diamond to Join MC Faculty in Fall 2021 on p. 12

Opinions & Editorials

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the Quadrangle Volume CIII, Issue 2 February 2, 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

Colleen McNamara Asst. Sports Editor

Lauren Raziano Social Media Editor

Kelly Kennedy Asst. Social Media Editor

Brian Asare Photography Editor

Emily Hollar Production Editor Asst. 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.

Connect with The Quadrangle

mcquad.org @mcquad @mcquad mcquad

THE QUADRANGLE

Tom Brady Ends G.O.A.T Debate Michael Bottiglieri Contributor

On March 20, 2020, Tom Brady officially signed his contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, breaking both the internet and the hearts of lifelong Patriots fans.

Backtrack to the 2019 season, the Buccaneers were 7-9 being while led by former first overall pick Jameis Winston, who tallied up an all-time high 30 interceptions which led to 112 total points for opposing teams. Although he led the league in passing yards, to go along with 30 passing touchdowns, it was safe to say Tampa was in need of a quarterback change.

Enter Tom Brady, who was fresh on the free agency market after a disappointing loss to the Tennessee Titans in the 2019 AFC Wild Card playoff game.

After the game, Brady told the ESPN press, “I love the Patriots. I would say it’s pretty unlikely, hopefully unlikely.

I love playing football. I don’t know what it looks like moving forward.”

This statement demonstrated his love for the Patriots and the game of football itself; however, he was actually subtly indicating that his future with the team wasn’t up to him.

Fast forward to this crazy and extremely unorthodox NFL season we all witnessed.

Despite the fact that players had to study film and playbooks via Zoom meetings and had limited practice during the

week, the coaches and players made it work.

More impressively, Tom Brady made it work.

Tom Brady is the G.O.A.T of football, and there really is no more debating it.

This isn’t just a guy who has been to ten Super Bowls.

He isn’t just a guy who won seven out of those ten– two of the wins happening in his forties– which is more than any other franchise in the NFL. He is a 43-year-old man who signed with the historically worst franchise in the NFL in terms of winning percentage, and immediately made them a Super Bowl contender.

Keep in mind that this was a season in which the global pandemic had drastic effects on every team’s success and growth.

Football is a game in which preparation is more than half the battle. Tom Brady had to enter a completely new system under head coach Bruce Arians and at the same time couldn’t connect and build chemistry with his teammates, because of the COVID-19 restrictions enacted across the league.

It is without question that this season was the greatest Super Bowl run anyone has ever seen and that the debate for the G.O.A.T of football ended last weekend. There were always people who questioned Brady’s greatness because he always had Bill Belichick, who is regarded as one of the greatest coaches of all time, as his head coach. Well, Tom Brady left Belichick this season and went 11 to five and became a Super Bowl champion; while Bellicheck went seven to nine

and missed the playoffs for the first time in years.

Arguments have constantly been made that Aaron Rodgers has always been better, and that if he was in New England his whole career that he would’ve done the same thing.

While that is a valid argument, this isn’t about the most talented of all time. This is about the greatest of all time, and there’s a difference.

Does Aaron Rodgers have more arm talent than Tom Brady? Yes. Does Aaron Rodgers have anywhere near the amount of Super Bowls Tom Brady has?

We all know that answer.

What’s more, Tom Brady went to Lambeau Field for the NFC championship and beat this past season’s MVP Aaron Rodgers in one of the best years of his career. So even if we disregard Super Bowl statistics, he still went into Aaron Rodgers’s house and straight up beat him.

Debate is finished.

Every single argument against Tom Brady has been silenced. Brady did what he did best in Super Bowl LV, which is silencing the hate and proving everybody wrong. And the scariest or greatest part, depending how you look at it, is that he is not done yet.

My prediction? Tom Brady competes for his eighth Super Bowl ring next season at 44-years-old.

Editor’s Note: The opinions expressed in the Quadrangle are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editorial Board, the College or the student body.

SUBMIT YOUR OWN LETTER OR OP-ED Letters to the Editor or an op-ed 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.

CORRECTIONS Last week the news article “The Winning Play: Engineering Students Awarded for Cooling Data Centers Project in 2020 Virtual University Challenge” by Nicole Rodriguez and Kiersten Thompson was formatted incorrectly. Scan the QR Code to read the full article.

News

FEBRUARY 16, 2021

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Locke’s Unlocks Indoor Dining Option for Students __________________________ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 does not condone this behavior and is encouraging students to not move the furniture and follow all COVID-19 protocols.

“Designated seating areas and capacities should not be adjusted by pulling additional chairs to a table,” Waldorf said.

“We need to continue to respect all the posted and communicated protocols which will contribute to us getting through the pandemic impact sooner rather than later.”

On campus, students are also excited that Locke’s Loft will be reopening indoor dining, as it increases the hope that college campuses are returning to a somewhat normal state.

“It is pretty exciting that Locke’s is opening up,” Matthew Giantelli, freshman chemical engineering major, said. “It shows that the school is going

to slowly start integrating normal school activities back into the school environment.”

The college decided to remove the outdoor dining tents located in front of Draddy Gymnasium for the spring semester.

The tents were popular among students during the fall semester so they would not have to dine in their rooms alone, but it looks like they may not make a return in the spring semester.

When asked about if the tents will return with summer weather, Waldhof said,“That has yet to be decided. If indoor dining continues to open with greater capacities, we may not need the tents.”

To accommodate take-out dining, students have been given single-use paper bags to transport their meals due to COVID-19 restrictions. As a result, there have been piles of excess waste in dorm hall trash rooms.

As a fair trade certified col-

lege, Manhattan College has a responsibility to reduce waste and protect the environment.

This highlights the issue and encourages the dining hall to encourage students to bring in their own reusable bags, but the COVID-19 single-use options limit their ability to offer

this option to students.

“We are actively looking into more sustainable practices on reusable materials that follow COVID-19 safety protocols,” dining services said.

Despite the challenges of COVID-19 guidelines, the dining team is ready to see stu-

dents’ faces as they enjoy hot and healthy meals.

“We encourage our customers to continue to be mindful of others, wear a mask, adhere to social distancing guidelines, and bring your appetite,” dining services said.

At Manhattan College, Locke’s Loft is expected to reopen indoor dining at 25% capacity on Monday, Feb. 22.

BRIAN ASARE/THE QUADRANGLE

On campus, students are also excited that Locke’s Loft will be reopening indoor dining, as it increases the hope that college campuses are returning to a somewhat normal state.

LAUREN RAZIANO/THE QUADRANGLE

Cases Rise as MC Sees a 2.4% Positive Test Average Nicole Fitzsimmons News Editor

As COVID-19 remains a problem across the country, Manhattan College continues the fight against the virus on campus. The positive test average for the college was 2.4% during the past 14 days. The seven-day positive test average for New York City was 5.0% on Wednesday, February 10 in comparison.

In an email from Jaspers Return on February 11th to students and faculty, the college reported a slight increase in positive COVD-19 cases. Over the past 14 days, 874 tests were completed on campus with 13 positive results and 295 results pending. For off-campus tests,

6 positive test results were recorded for on-campus individuals out of 207 tests.

As these rates continue to change, Manhattan College is requiring all individuals on campus to participate in regular surveillance testing. The only exception to this is for those who have tested positive for COVID-19 during the previous 90 days.

“Students will take part in regular testing every two weeks and employees will participate in regular testing every three weeks. You will receive an email with advanced notice when it is your turn to be tested. We encourage you to complete your PCR surveillance test as soon as possible after you receive that notification

email,” stated the email.

Furthermore, the college encourages students and faculty to be vaccinated when given the chance. The email lists websites to find appointments and to see eligibility requirements.

This email also reminds all students and faculty that masks must be worn at all times in the classroom and on campus, even if there is additional protective equipment.

“You need to wear a mask at all times in public. You need to wash your hands, follow distancing signage on campus, avoid large indoor gatherings, and stay in well-ventilated areas.”

Despite the intensity of the environment we are living in,

the college is working towards making the college a healthy place for students and faculty.

They recognize that it is difficult, and even referenced a Washington Post article about hitting “the pandemic wall,” alluding to the mental ‘wall’ that marathon runners hit at mile 20.

“We have no idea how much longer our city and state will have certain restrictions in place because of the pandemic.

We know that case numbers around us are going down, hospitalizations are decreasing, and more and more people, including several of our own faculty, are fully vaccinated.

We know that many of you may be hitting ‘the pandemic wall.’

However, this is the time we

need to focus on the things that will get us to the finish line,” stated the email.

The Counseling Center has created a support group for students who are struggling with adjusting to life during this pandemic. This is just one way the community is attempting to help students during this time.

The college has also gathered results from the One Manhattan pulse survey in which students and faculty were asked how they feel about current procedures on campus.

These results can be found at the end of the email.

The campus will continue to work against the spread of the virus and the systems in place by the college are highlighting this fight.

Features

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THE QUADRANGLE

Claudy’s Kitchen: The Neighborhood Friend Committed to Serving the Community Amid COVID-19 RIVERDALE RISES Christine Nappi Features Editor

The Quadrangle spoke to Claudia Perroa, owner of Claudy’s Kitchen, as part of a new column, Riverdale Rises, highlighting local businesses defying the odds during the pandemic.

Peruvian food has been a prominent part of Claudia Berroa’s life, however, she wasn’t always a cook. After her first child was born, Claudia searched for a way to stay at home with her daughter and make living. To do so, she turned to the kitchen and embraced her Peruvian roots where she soon discovered a hidden talent for cooking Peruvian food. Eventually, her talent turned into a business: from selling to friends and family to catering and wholesaling at local stores and supermarkets, Claudia’s Peruvian style food was making its mark.

However, Claudia and her husband Richard dreamt of bringing Peruvian food to Riverdale, a neighborhood they’ve called home since 2007. In June of 2020, Claudia and Richard took their business one step further and Claudy’s Kitchen, located at 5981 Broadway, was born– yet the restaurant came to fruition in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. “[The business] grew into a dream of opening up our own place, a place where [Claudia] can showcase her food,” Richard Berroa said.

“Ultimately that’s what Claudy’s has become. It’s definitely been a labor of love… with the pandemic, while other places are shuttering our sales are increasing and I think it’s just a tribute to the food but also our hard work and a desire to pro-

vide the best possible food.”

Claudia and Richard were initially drawn to open Claudy’s Kitchen in the Riverdale area because they have been longtime members of the community and saw a need for local Peruvian cuisine. The mom and pop style restaurant provides quick-service Peruvian food from empanadas to flan and more, and mostly consists of takeout orders. According to Richard, Claudy’s Kitchen is equipped with a top-tier kitchen that creates a dining experience that can’t be replicated at home.

When opening during the pandemic, the Berroa’s didn’t know if their business would either fail or succeed.

“You’re seeing all these established places failing,” Richard said. “It’s our first restaurant and we basically didn’t have a choice, it’s either sink or swim. That’s the environment.

And, you know, we just, we continued doing what we’ve always been doing, which is trying to provide the best possible product and service, being friendly and welcoming and trying to educate people because a lot of people don’t really know Peruvian food.”

Although Claudy’s Kitchen is designed as a quick-style takeout restaurant, Richard describes that about 25 percent of their business comes from dine-in orders. The current indoor dining restrictions in New York City have stunted their business slightly, however, they’ve still managed to stay afloat.

“Psychologically,beingshut down keeps a lot of people away,” Richard said. “Even though we’re doing better than most businesses, in this situation, it’s still been a challenge because we’re still not at 100

percent capacity… even for [a] business that’s doing relatively well, you’re not at 100 percent.”

However, Richard finds that being ambassadors of quality Peruvian food, providing stellar service and showcasing a welcoming attitude are factors that have set their business apart from others and helped them succeed. Richard outlines their food philosophy for success in three words: bueno, bonito, and barato.

“We have a food philosophy, which is in Spanish it’s BBB, bueno, bonito, and barato which in English translates to good, aesthetically pleasing and a good value,” Richard said. “It’s basically what we look for in restaurants and that’s what we want for people finding restaurants.”

Similarly, Claudia credits the success of their business amid COVID-19 to the unique food Claudy’s serves. She describes Claudy’s serves food like no other in the area, which draws customers in, even during the pandemic.

“The pandemic has been scary,” Claudia said. “I’m glad we have a lot of customers, they love the food [and] there’s a lot of support from the neighborhood… people like eating something different [and] this is so different.”

Claudy’s Kitchen has been able to overcome the challenges brought on by the pandemic due to their food and service, however, Richard and Claudia also credit their success to the supportive Riverdale community.

When the restaurant first opened, members of the Riverdale community rallied around Claudy’s Kitchen in support of the business. Claudia and Richard are incredibly thankful for the support of the community

Claudy’s Kitchen is a quick-style Peruvian restaurant that provides unique and high-quality food to the Riverdale and Manhattan College communities. Their empanadas are a customer favorite.

RICHARD BERROA / COURTESY

Claudy’s Kitchen first opened in June 2020 amid COVID-19.

Despite the challenges of running a restaurant during the pandemic, Claudy’s Kitchen has been able to succeed with the utmost support of the Riverdale community.

RICHARD BERROA / COURTESY during this time and find that their supportive customer base has helped them hurdle the barriers brought on by the pandemic.

“I’m so grateful for all the support these customers have for us,” Claudia said. “ I remember when we just open[ed], I couldn’t believe… [there] was a big line outside [and] I fell on my hands and I was crying because we didn’t know we’re going to make it [and I’m] just happy and thank for everyone for the support they’ve given us.”

Claudy’s Kitchen has also reciprocated the tremendous support they’ve received by giving back to the community.

This past fall, they participated in the MC community clean-up effort and they have teamed up with Friendly Fridge and the Moms Feed the Bronx organization to allow people to donate meals from Claudy’s Kitchen to the fridge located at The Last Stop on Broadway.

Although a majority of the college community was not present when Claudy’s Kitchen first opened, some Manhattan College members have been supporting the business since day one. One of these members is Robert Walsh, the Senior Adviser to MC’s president Brennan O’Donnell. Walsh has supported Richard and Claudia since last year when he first met them as finalists in the 1010 WINS Small Business Challenge, a program he mod-

erates for the Radio Station.

“I was thrilled when I heard [the restaurant] was going to be a stone’s throw from Campus,” Walsh wrote in an email.

“Over the past year, I have watched Rich build [the restaurant] out and Claudia delivering great dishes. The pandemic has been a real stumbling block for them and I admire how they have fought on, pivoting to take [out] and delivery.”

Walsh encourages all members of the MC community to support Claudy’s Kitchen because of how committed they’ve been to helping the community and being a friend to others.

“They already have been great with Manhattan College on a community cleanup effort that we had in the Fall,” Walsh wrote. “Rich was very active and engaged– now it is our turn to be extra supportive. And you will not go wrong with this advice– try the empanadas!”

From serving the Riverdale and MC community and beyond, Claudy’s Kitchen has not only been committed to providing Riverdale with the best quality Peruvian food, but they’ve also been committed to being an above all a friend to the community at large.

“I want to get across that we’re neighbors, we’re not just business owners,” Richard said.

“This is our home and we’re honored and happy to have our neighbors supporting us.”

Features

FEBRUARY 16, 2021

5

Catching Up With Campus Ministry and Social Action Suite Kelly Cwik

Asst. A&E Editor The Campus Ministry and Social Action Suite continue to adapt their programming to COVID-19 safety precautions while still providing students with a plethora of opportunities.

Conor Reidy, Campus Minister and member of the Office of Campus Ministry and Social Action, administers programs on campus such as retreat programming, the blood drive on campus, Agape Latte and Peer Ministry. There are events planned for CMSA in the near future, such as the upcoming Agape Latte on March 11 at 7:30 p.m. with Dr. Stephanie Powell. However, as of right now, there are no retreats planned, though Reidy is hoping to organize one in the future.

“I’m kind of waiting to see how things continue to develop with further vaccinations, with the variants, with how our numbers are going down in New York, and kind of just see how February shakes out before putting anything on the calendar and then having to

cancel it,” Reidy said. “I definitely want to do something in person, or hybrid for the senior class.”

While retreats have taken a pause, Peer Ministry continues to meet virtually once a week. Peer Ministry used to be a primarily service-based program, but they have adapted to include more discussion.

As Reidy describes, topics of discussion include but are not limited to family, relationships, substance abuse and growing up, while keeping religion in mind.

“Where does God fit in your life, how do you make decisions morally, ethically through a faith-based lens,” Reidy said. “Saying all of this, Peer Ministry is open to people of all faiths. I know people aren’t just Catholic in the group, and it’s really a place for anybody of any faith, of any question to talk about how faith plays a role in their decision-making process, how it plays a role in their careers, how it plays a role in how they act with each other and with their families and how they make decisions, just how it shapes kind of all of your de-

cisions.”

Senior Meggie Osorio is one of two students who lead Peer Ministry meetings. Meetings begin with a reflection of the week and then they partake in an activity.

“Maybe we’ll read an article or listen to a snippet of a podcast or watch a video or something like that and then we’ll do maybe an activity after,” Osorio said. “It can be different, maybe you draw a picture...and then after that we get into more discussions.”

Campus Ministry has also adapted. Reidy, along with Reverend Thomas Franks, MC’s chaplain, are working together to create videos reflecting about Lent which will be posted on Instagram TV and Youtube every Sunday throughout Lent. Videos will be open for all to view.

Reidy explained the videos will consist of Gospel reflection and personal experiences, followed by prayer and music.

“So it’s really just an opportunity for people to like, sit back, relax, take a deep breath and reflect on the meaning of the season, through some safe programming that involves

our students and our faculty and our brothers,” Reidy said.

Mass continues to be held in-person in the Chapel of De La Salle and His Brothers with COVID-19 precautionary measures.

There are opportunities to volunteer at CMSA or to get a work-study position. Lois Harr, Director of the Department of Social Action, explains what current students are doing to stay involved.

“Students [are] working within all different organizations on food security or tutoring...different things that they’re doing at a homeless shelter, doing citizenship classes that stuff, art projects from the kids,” Harr said.

CMSA has also been working on Peace and Justice Week which has their first event on Feb. 22 at 3:30 p.m. via Google Meet titled “Making Sense of Historical Monuments.”

Throughout the week they will have guest speakers and on the last day the newly installed “Peace Pole” will have a formal dedication.

Harr emphasized the importance of having CMSA on campus to help shape MC stu-

dents. “[Students] learn great content in classrooms and then, the way you find out if you really understand it and can use it in the world, is putting it in physical activity,” Harr said. “Like do you know how to work with other people and can you really [solve] a problem and can you really figure out how to be of service to the world?… Those are the opportunities I think that we try to provide [to] people that help them think about what’s really important.”

Franks is glad to have so many students involved in CMSA and encourages students to contribute their own ideas to the program.

“I’m grateful that students have wanted to and looked for ways to connect and interact with our programming,” Franks said. “We’re here to be of service to the students, so if there’s a program or an element in action that students want, please reach out and we’re happy to, to build, who we are and what we are together.”

For more information, follow @mc_cmsa on Instagram or visit https://inside.manhattan. edu/student-life/cmsa/index.

OneManhattan Student Ambassadors Continues to Keep Campus Safe Jilleen Barrett A&E Editor

After a long winter break, many students are returning to campus to learn in-person.

While most are concerned with avoiding contact with those who have contracted the virus, the OneManhattan ambassadors will continue to assist everyone by encouraging the entire Manhattan College community to follow safety procedures.

Frenki-Samuel Lulgjuraj, a freshman, is one of the ambassadors for OneManhattan.

He feels the fall semester went smoothly because of the effort put in by the students on campus.

“I think the fall semester went pretty well regarding COVID-19 safety, as students became more aware of it,” Lulgjuraj said. “I feel like a big part of being safe was that no students would want to jeopardize their privilege of safe in-person classes. Thus, students were really understanding and made the ambassadors’ ‘job’ a lot easier.”

Pete McHugh, director of Media Relations and Strategic Communications at MC, has been working with Jaspers Return to make the school a safe environment during the remainder of the pandemic.

He strongly advises students to continue being as careful as possible.

“We trust our campus community to continue to look out

for one another,” McHugh said.

“We’re all in this together… the more we take proactive measures to stop the spread– wearing a mask, washing hands, participating in regular testing– the better chance we have of keeping our case count low and keeping our friends and family safe and healthy.”

Though Lulgjuraj’s first year of college does not look the way he thought it would, he feels he is still getting the opportunity to contribute to the school in the way he wanted to before the pandemic started.

“When I committed to MC last year, I was really looking forward to becoming an active member of the community and making the most out of my college experience,” Lulgjuraj said. “However, COVID-19 lim-

ited my possibilities for the semester, as most activities went virtual or were postponed…

I felt like this program would allow me to know more about the school and from a different perspective… I felt like One Manhattan would be a continuation of my various community service experiences.”

As for the future of the pandemic, vaccines are beginning to be administered but there is no specific time when students should expect to be eligible to receive it– however, Provost Schreiner said in an email to the student body that he believes there is reason to have hope.

“The vaccine is rolling out,” Schreiner wrote. “Those at most risk from the virus in our community are already in the

process of receiving their doses… brighter days are definitely on the horizon. Remember we are all in this together– Together, we are OneManhattan and will achieve a full return to campus soon.”

McHugh agrees and stated that Manhattan College will do whatever it takes to make sure the community gets vaccinated and can safely attend classes in-person.

“We encourage anyone to get vaccinated when they’re eligible...we don’t have a timeline and will follow the guidance of the city and state when it’s appropriate,” McHugh said.

“Right now, many students aren’t eligible yet to receive vaccines, but as soon as they are, we hope to be in a position to assist in the distribution effort.”

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Features

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THE QUADRANGLE

Pandemic or Not, The Multicultural Center Continues to Shine Whit Anderson Staff Writer

Despite this pandemic creating numerous obstacles for Manhattan College organizations, the Multicultural Center is still doing all they can to achieve its goals this semester.

Located on the third floor of Kelly Commons, the Multicultural Center was created as an area where students of all different backgrounds and identities can feel comfortable.

Hayden Greene, the Director of Multicultural Affairs, has made it his mission to provide the resources in this center for students to learn about others’ cultures while having the voice to spread their own.

Greene has many goals and plans for the center this spring.

“Every semester is different,” Greene said. “The fall semester is always about welcoming new people in, making sure they understand who we are and what we do. We also discuss with them what they’re bringing to campus to try and figure out who we have coming in. The spring semester is about celebrating different identities and celebrating who we are. But no matter the semester, our main theme is to always be brave.”

Greene emphasized celebration in the spring. This includes celebrating Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Irish Heritage Month and many other notable celebrations that commemorate accomplishments of various groups. But unlike previous spring semesters, this one can’t only be reserved for celebration. On top of the numerous

traumatic events of 2020, the historic storming of the United States Capitol in early January has left so many students confused and emotionally distressed. However, the Multicultural Center can provide the support needed during these trying times.

“We continue to have listening circles and healing circles,” Greene said. “We are also working on a workshop about how to discuss political issues with people who are diametrically opposed to you on different ends of the spectrum. We want people coming out of these being able to have constructive conversations with those they may not agree with. We are always here physically and virtually for people who want to talk.”

The Multicultural Center is living up to its promise of providing that space and comfort for students of all backgrounds to express themselves, along with going the extra mile to make sense of these trying times.

Thankfully, the students most closely involved with the Multicultural Center can confirm these expectations are being met, and they are also reciprocating that same energy.

Junior Isabel Vazquez and sophomore Chelsey Leveque are two of the most closely associated students with the Multicultural Center, and they both have unique stories of why they got involved with the organization.

“I lived in Queens, which is a very diverse area,” Vazquez said. “I’ve always been very connected to multiculturalism.

The center is a space where people from all different backgrounds can meet and have interesting conversations on a range of topics. I wanted to get involved because it felt like a space where I could really connect with everybody.”

Leveque’s journey to the Multicultural Center was similar, but it was also closely tied with her joining the Emerging Leaders Program.

“I first learned about the Multicultural Center during my freshman year orientation,” Leveque said. “I learned about the space and all it had to offer. We did other activities involving expressing our identity, and then Hayden Greene gave a speech about the ELP. I saw this as a perfect opportunity to break out of my comfort zone, and joining the program paved the way to my current involvement in the Multicultural Center. ELP taught me how to appreciate diversity and provided me with the tools necessary to become a leader.”

The Multicultural Center provides numerous leadership opportunities, whether they’re through the ELP, The All Of Us retreat or other various conferences. Under normal circumstances, the ELP is heavily involved in event planning. Due to the challenging roadblocks of the pandemic, the ELP had to be suspended this spring to go along with other modifications to ensure student safety.

“We’ve learned a lot of lessons from being in the pandemic,” Greene said. “The main lesson was that students aren’t on campus to attend

daytime events.”

Greene comments that the center has made itself accommodating to these students by making events later in the evening and utilizing technology.

Many events were hosted in a hybrid fashion, allowing students to attend both in person and online.

“It’s been a tough road, but we’re very thankful because as we are learning, our students are learning,” Greene said.

“The level of programming now compared to before the pandemic is similar.”

The limitations for the Multicultural Center have been trying, but each day the organization is learning from their mistakes to continue to provide for the students in the same manner they did before the pandemic. Part of this support is through the numerous events taking place this spring.

Leveque was asked to work alongside the Black History Month Planning Committee within the center. Leveque collaborated with Gregory Cowart to create an event entitled “Beyond the Green Gates.” This hybrid symposium is to be held on Feb. 27 and will feature panel discussions, engaging workshops and other events focused on preparing multicultural students for a successful future.

Even with this ELP suspension, students are finding other methods of involvement, planning events that live up to the aspirations of the Multicultural Center.

Greene mentioned other events that will be on the same scale as Beyond the Green Gates. These include an en-

trepreneur series, an art exhibition that will showcase the work of black artists, and various Tiny Talks with notable speakers.

The multitude of events is a testament to the success of the Multicultural Center. Not only does the organization give students of all backgrounds a space where they can be heard, but they also provide the tools to be the leaders of tomorrow. These tools encourage the bravery needed to take action, and students demonstrate what they’ve learned through giving back to the organization, creating a symbiotic relationship. The events are a byproduct of an unbreakable foundation that each side has contributed to.

“I met tons of people through the Multicultural Center,” Vazquez said. “It’s been so impactful because I’ve met a lot of my friends there and I’ve been comfortable enough to have conversations that I might not have had anywhere else.”

Leveque expresses the same sentiment.

“The Multicultural Center has given me the confidence to further embrace and appreciate my individuality,” she said.

“It has opened my eyes to the cultural mosaic that makes up our student body. By providing me with a safe space to connect and learn from other students of color, the Multicultural Center has easily become one of my go-to places to socialize and get work done at the same time.”

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FEBRUARY 16, 2021

7

Careers in the Time of COVID: Speakers from L’Oreal Discuss the Cosmetic Industry in Light of COVID-19 Nicole Rodriguez & Kiersten Thompson Production Editor & Contributor

The Center for Career Development and the Cosmetic Engineer and Chemist Society joined forces to host a lecture entitled Careers in the Time of COVID: Cosmetics, featuring Kimberly Jelich ’19 and Raven Stephens ’19, a Master Scheduler and Production Scheduler at L’Oreal. On Wednesday, Feb. 10, the session discussed how the cosmetic industry has been impacted by COVID-19 and the best steps to continue to move forward in your career path, regardless of the emerging challenges presented by our new normal.

Rachel Cirelli, Director of the Center for Career Development, opened up the event explaining the significance of acknowledging the effects of COVID-19 in the workplace and how companies operate in order to properly navigate your fields of interest.

“All this is important for you, because you still may not know exactly what you want to do when you graduate– you’re not supposed to, right,” Cirelli said. “So these events, even preCOVID, really helped us identify areas that might be a good fit… now that we’re in this crazy time, I think these events are really helpful so [students] can see what certain companies are doing, how they’re adjusting, how to stand out in a more competitive time, but also to give you hope, because I know it’s a different environment, but people are still working really hard and advancing professionally.”

During their time at the college, Jelich and Stephens had the opportunity to intern for L’Oreal. Their internship experiences and performances granted them full-time po-

sitions at the company upon graduation.

While they both work for L’Oreal, their roles differ. As Master Scheduler, Jelich primarily supports skincare, specifically CeraVe, whereas Stephens as the Production Scheduler primarily supports lipstick production for brands like NYX Cosmetics, IT Cosmetics and Maybelline.

“The only difference between my job and Raven’s job is that I have responsibilities for longer-term planning,” Jelich said. “I don’t work directly with the manufacturing lines, but I do make the decision of what runs on lines and what month they do run in.”

The unprecedented pandemic greatly shifted the operations and work environment of L’Oreal. Adjusting to a different way of working with mask-wearing, social distancing, and increased online communication became imperative.

“Where you used to really have that separation between your professional life going into the office and then going home afterward, it really kind of blurred the lines between the two of those,” Stephens said. “ Now you’re sitting at either your dining room table or you bought a desk, but it’s still at home, so you have to learn it’s five o’clock now, I need to log off, and discerning those different things. Also, we did a lot of in-person meetings and going to people’s desks to ask questions and now you can’t really go and interact with people so we started using Microsoft Teams.”

Despite the challenges workers faced, L’Oreal remained proactive in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Through their Project Clean Hands Initiative, the company produced alcohol-based hand sanitizer for the first time in facilities that were previously only used

for color cosmetics. Additionally, they used their equipment to fit the demand for PPE by utilizing 3-D printing technology to create face shields for front line workers. They also donated their own personal care products to local hospitals and essential workers.

“L’Oreal has always been a company that always is wanting to reach out to the community and make a positive impact on the community,” Jelich said.

“So it was really nice to see all these efforts being put out without any sort of monetary reward as for an exchange.

These were all things that our people and people that we work with, are really proud of to say that we did this in order to help others.”

Like for Jelich and Stephens, MC has opened doors for current students to explore their career interests within the cosmetic industry, especially through its one of a kind cosmetic engineering program and newly founded Cosmetic Engineer and Chemist Society.

The society, founded by junior chemical engineering major Ciara Coyle, strives to prepare students to work at companies like L’Oreal that perfectly integrate chemical engineering and cosmetics.

“I am lucky that the chemical engineering department at Manhattan College is so proactive with each of its students, and they supported my board and I, wholeheartedly, when we wanted to start the Cosmetic Engineer and Chemist Society,” Coyle said. “Dr. Amin has supported our newly founded Cosmetic Engineer and Chemist Society since day one, and now I’m doing research with Dr. Amin and Meghan Hartson in our new cosmetic lab in Leo.” Junior chemical engineering major Meghan Hartson expressed a similar appreciation for the college’s chemical

L’Oreal remained proactive in light of the COVID-19 pandemic through their Project Clean Hands Initiative, utilizing their 3-D printing technology to create face shields for front line workers and donating their own personal care products to local hospitals and essential workers.

NICOLE RODRIGUEZ/THE QUADRANGLE

engineering department and its unique cosmetic engineering program for allowing her to combine her two passions of cosmetics and creating a product from start to finish. She detailed the research project that she has teamed up with Coyle to work on that is centered around hair gel.

“I am helping to formulate a thermoresponsive hair gel made from sustainable and biodegradable polymers that will act as both a heat protectant and hair spray all in one so it is less damaging to your hair and will ultimately save you money on products,” Hartson said.

“The gel is heat activated so after it is applied to wet hair and dried, it can be styled in any way you want and the hair will stay for as long as you need it to without the feeling of crunchy hair spray on top-everyone’s worst nightmare.”

Associate professor in the chemical engineering department, Samiul Amin, Ph.D., serves as faculty advisor for the Cosmetic Engineer and Chemist Society, regularly meeting with its co-presidents Ciara Coyle and Gianna Villani, to discuss internship opportunities and connecting them with speakers. Prior to working at the college, he worked in research and development at various companies like Exxon Mobil, Unilever, and was an Associate Vice President at L’Oreal. He was able to utilize his chemical engineering degree to work at a variety of jobs in petroleum, foods, scientific instrumentations, biopharmaceuticals and cosmetics.

The pandemic greatly affected the sales of certain cosmetic products. In particular, color cosmetics have faced weak sales in favor of skincare products. Amin further explained how and why these sales shifted as a result of COVID-19 and the measures that are taken to slow the spread of the virus such as mask-wearing.

“Color cosmetics like lip makeup and things like that have seen a big downtrend in the industry, because no one’s wearing lipstick, everyone’s wearing masks,” Amin said.

“There’s been a kind of a major shift in the industry….you’ll see the whole color cosmetics area kind of taking a little bit of a nosedive this year of COVID, but there are certain other areas which are still doing well.

For example, eye makeup like mascara is still good because it’s above the mask and also, skincare is doing well because people are having certain skin issues with wearing masks for too long as well.”

L’Oreal particularly saw a growth in sales with the rising popularity of the CeraVe skincare products, thanks to Tik-

Kimberly Jelich ’19 and Raven Stephens ’19, a Master Scheduler and Production Scheduler at L’Oreal discussed how the cosmetic industry has been impacted by COVID-19 @MANHATTAN_CCS/ COURTESY Tok. “We saw a shift in our business needs,” Stephens said. “We went from mainly doing cosmetics and focusing on those things whereas, of course, if you’re on TikTok, if you’re on any type of social media, you’ve seen CeraVe’s everywhere, it’s the face wash, it’s the moisturizer, it’s everywhere. So we saw an increase in that sale and an increase of a need to make sure that we’re providing to the business those increases because people are looking for those things.”

As interns who moved up the ladder into full-time professionals at L’Oreal, Jelich and Stephens advised those in attendance who are looking to secure full-time positions at the end of their internships to treat every day of your internship like an exit interview and to always be the expert on your project.

“When you work, people are watching what you do,” Jelich said. “Every single day is part of your interview. Obviously, mistakes happen. You could have off days. You’re not perfect. Everyone’s human… It’s about how you react to those mistakes, how you correct them, how you carry yourself and how you just show I am someone who deserves to work here, I’m someone who can be direct and make decisions and get my job done.”

The cosmetic engineering program at MC has helped many students participate in internship programs and secure jobs at companies like Estée Lauder, Avon, and L’Oreal.

“Manhattan College to this cosmetic program has created a very industrially relevant program where basically, the students are coming out with the right sort of industrial knowledge and the mindset, and they’re pretty much ready to hit the ground running when they enter into these companies and that’s valued very highly by the cosmetic industry,” Amin said.

Arts & Entertainment

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THE QUADRANGLE

Alternative Narrative Art Show: Painting a Picture of What Black History Month is All About Pete Janny Sports Editor

Art oftentimes works as a narrative; it has a story to tell and can be an outlet for many to express their deepest desires.

Its beauty and meaning contain the power to bring others together. Come Feb. 23, Jaspers will have the chance to appreciate a special kind of artwork when Student Engagement reveals its Alternative Narrative Art Show featuring works from Black students on campus. The show is a chance to celebrate the importance of this month, a time in which the world reflects on the accomplishments of Blacks throughout history.

“The Alternative Narrative Art Show is a showcase of Black artists that illuminates the different ways that people of color represent themselves in the art world,” read a description of the event on the college’s website. “The selected artists will be featured on banners posted around campus, culminating in a walk-through gallery show on the 4th floor of the Student Commons. Each artist will display additional work from their collection. The event is co-sponsored by the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee.”

With the help of Student Engagement, two individuals, in

particular, have been working hard in the lead up to the big reveal. Although most known for their performance on the court, Manhattan basketball players Ebube Ebube and Courtney Warley have been working to help coordinate the lineup for the show.

What started out as a simple idea has come a long way after taking initiative themselves to recruit artists. From the early planning stages up until now, the purpose of the show hasn’t changed, providing Black students at the college the chance to share their artistic skills with the community and contribute to the festivities of Black History Month. For Warley and Ebube, their collaboration on this project comes on the heels of assisting Student Engagement and the Multicultural Center with other upcoming events, including a trivia night and sneaker expo, that honor Black History Month.

“From the first day I knew this could be a really powerful event,” Warley told The Quadrangle. “I’m glad that we decided to have the proceeds raised from donations and raffled pieces donated to the Harlem Educational Activities Fund which is an amazing nonprofit for underserved students and has a personal connection with someone on my team.”

The whole production of the show is a display of humanitarianism; a combination of raising money and empowering minority students. Ebube and Warley are counted among the population of Black students at the school who, now in their senior year, are working to improve the academic and social experience for people of color. Their status as student-athletes doesn’t just mean balancing basketball and school responsibilities; instead, their amplified platform can be used to address real-world concerns as well.

“I acknowledge that being an athlete gives me access to support and resources to use to help elevate my platform,” Ebube said of the opportunities student-athletes have to give back. “I cherish that I can use that access to be able to take action on initiatives that can bring value to the community.”

According to Ebube, it’s sometimes simply a matter of encouraging Black youth to chase their dreams, regardless of what they aspire to be. By having a hero or a mentor, it’s less likely for them to fall into the trap of certain stereotypes.

“I would say that my top hero would be Roger Ross Williams, who was the first Black director to win an Oscar ten years ago,” Ebube said.

“Although he is not the first Black filmmaker, who is Oscar Micheaux in the early 1900s, Williams was the first to win an Oscar which for someone my age gave me the belief that it was possible for someone who looked like me.”

The events of 2020 marked the latest chapter in the history of race relations in America.

The wealth gap widened and instances of police brutality triggered social unrest in cities across America, all the while the coronavirus pandemic disproportionately affected people of color. The past year has been busy both on and off campus for those trying to create awareness for these injustices.

As for Ebube and Warley, this isn’t their first rodeo with these types of grievances. As the Black Lives Matter Movement rose to the limelight over the summer, the MAAC announced a United for Justice campaign that has been ongoing throughout the current basketball season. Meanwhile, the Manhattan women’s basketball team went one step further during the Fall semester by holding a Black Lives Matter Vigil on the Quad that was open to all members of the college community and which will prove to be a lasting highlight of this academic year.

“I feel like the Alternative

Narrative Art Show will do something similar in bringing the campus together to witness Black students use their voice and celebrate Black culture,” Warley said when comparing the vigil and the upcoming art show. “Now more than ever, it is important for Black voices to be heard and understood.”

The turnout for the art show remains to be seen, but the success of the vigil was probably a good harbinger for what might come on Feb. 23.

This Black History Month has seen different groups and individuals on campus such as Ebube and Warley, Student Engagement and the Multicultural Center do their part in making it a special month on campus.

They realize, as do many others, the importance of celebrating Black history — even if at first, according to Warley, it means humbly admitting what you don’t know for the sake of learning.

“Regardless of what race you are, I feel like Black History Month can serve as a time period for knowledge and understanding. There is always more to learn about Black History, Black figures, and Black culture. During this time I really try to take in all the content out there and just keep learning.”

for their time slot, they have full artistic freedom to produce a show all their own. Sophomore Emily Daly spoke about how each individual radio show can be different from the others.

“So, you have like a show name show description, what you’re planning to do, like what you want to play or music show sports show,” she said. “Most people do music I would say like, probably about 80 percent of people who have a show do some kind of music, and then some people do like sports talk shows or a podcast.”

Before the pandemic, WRCM regularly hosted events to share their love of music and radio talk shows with their staff and listeners. They’re looking forward to the possibility of having some covid-safe outdoor events later this Spring, in hopes of giving their seniors a proper send-off.

“We’re hoping outdoor events can happen … ” Daly said. “But unfortunately, considering everyone’s safety, as much as we want to have indoor shows or club meetings, it’s just not really feasible right now, so we’re gonna stick to online.”

Patrick Skwiot, an electrical engineering major, explains

that no matter what your skill set may be, anyone can join their radio staff.

“No previous experience required,” he said. “We have training sessions for the new DJs where we bring them in, show them how the equipment works, how to adjust your microphone volume, the sound volume if you’re playing something through the computer, things like that. Just like getting comfortable with operating the soundboard things like that so they can just be comfortable with it, and we have like the number of our technical director and our training director in like our binder, so if they need to call someone they can if there’s an issue.”

Senior Anthony Bradley explained to us why he’s grateful to have joined and have had WRCM as part of his college experience.

“The reason why I joined and the reason why other people should join - is because of the sense of community, and togetherness,” he said. “It’s just a bunch of people who like music, like people go to concerts together, they talk about music together, they do shows together, they go to events together, we design t-shirts together.

Like it’s really just a very large friend group.”

You can tune in to this clever staff of DJ’s online at wrcm. rocks. You can also stay up to date with events and news by following their Instagram page

(@wrcm.rocks). If you’re interested in joining, email wrcm@ manhattan.edu or direct message their pages on social media.

Editor’s Note: Jonnie Abadir contributed to reporting.

Tuning in with WRCM : Student Radio Returns for the Spring Semester Jocelyn Visnov

Asst. Production Editor Manhattan College’s student-run campus radio station, WRCM, is returning to the airwaves once again. The Quadrangle caught up with some of the current members to see what they have been up to and what they have in store for us this semester.

WRCM’s career at MC originally began in the late ’70s.

After a long hiatus, the beloved radio station returned in 2018 and has been here to stay ever since. Even while remaining COVID conscious, WRCM has been able to make a safe return to the Jasper community for the Spring 2021 season.

WRCM allows members to explore their creative sides and provide content about things they’re passionate about.

They’re a collaborative community currently made up of about 60 staff members, including both radio hosts and executive board members. Their booth is located in the RLC building, in what was formerly a security desk. Their content ranges from music to sports to politics, depending on who is hosting.

Once staff members show up

WRCM allows members to explore their creative sides and provide content about things they’re passionate about.

PATRICK SKIOT/ THE QUADRANGLE

An inside look at students going live on their radio show.

PATRICK SKIOT/ THE QUADRANGLE

FEBRUARY 16, 2021

Arts & Entertainment

9

Jasper Jams: Post-Valentine’s Day JASPER JAMS Gabriella DePinho & Nicole Rodriguez Senior Writer & Production Editor

While Valentine’s Day is only one day, celebrating and experiencing love is a yearround thing. Though the candy hearts will now be on sale and the seasonal aisle in Rite Aid won’t look like pink and red threw up all over it, the lovey-dovey feeling doesn’t have to go away. However, if you’re like us, you know that Valentine’s Day is not just for romantic love, but for all kinds of love. We’ve got songs to help you celebrate your relationship (whether it’s new or you’ve been around the block for a bit), to celebrate your singleness and your friends, and even to celebrate (or cope with) the situationship you’ve been stuck in for weeks now. up

If you’re happily coupled

Honesty - Pink Sweat$ (Nicole’s Pick) I remember discovering this song by the underrated artist and immediately adding it to my playlist- leading me to keep the song on replay constantly.

The song follows the format of a conversation between two individuals interested in each other, but one of them expresses reluctance in giving love another shot. Like the title suggests, the song presents the honest doubts, fears, and regrets surrounding love that anyone in a relationship or situationship can relate to. While the effortless tune addresses issues regarding commitment and insecurities, Pink Sweat$ reassures his love interest that there is nothing to be afraid of and the importance of learning to trust again in order to experience love fully, regardless of any baggage you carry on your person.

Best Part - Daniel Caesar (feat. H.E.R.) (Nicole’s Pick) Any Daniel Caesar song is iconic in its own right, but “Best Part” featuring H.E.R. is next level. The two artists have equally angelic voices that complement each other perfectly.

Although the song sounds like the honeymoon stage of a relationship by comparing your lover to the best part of the movie that is your life, it also works if you find yourself particularly smitten for your special someone. The song exemplifies not only an appreciation for your partner, but also a need and desire for them as your other half.

If you’re on the hunt for a song to dedicate to your significant other, this is the one.

I Want You Around Snoh Aalegra (Nicole’s Pick) Aalegra cites Stevie Wonder as one of her major inspirations and within the song makes multiple references to his album Innervisions in addition to referring to her love interest as two titles of his songs “Higher Ground” and “Rocket Lover.” Beyond the mention of his discography, one can note her admiration for Wonder by the smooth, groovy, sultry, and hypnotic tone of the song. The song details the first butterfly experience of meeting someone exciting, wanting to spend every waking moment with them, and falling head-overheels for someone. Anyone who is an authentic sucker for love and not afraid of getting all lovey-dovey needs to give this song a listen.

Don’t Wanna Be Without Ya - Penny and Sparrow (Gabs’ Pick) Penny and Sparrow is a musical duo from Texas who have been making and releasing music together since 2011, making this year their tenth year together. Hailing from Texas, they’re classified as folk artists and even though the pandemic stopped them from touring their 2019 album “Finch,” they’re still making music with new releases expected soon.

This song is from “Finch” and tells the story of the couple that’s attached at the hip — or the couple that is so destined to be together they’d find each other in any life, even when one is stuck in the form of a hairpin.

The Bones - Maren Morris with Hozier (Gabs’ Pick) The version without Hozier is just as good, but I like the duet better because it’s fun to hear the American country singer’s and the Irish indie and blues singer’s voices come together in really beautiful harmonies. The collaboration actually resulted out of Maren Morris’ love for his work and Hozier’s love for the original version of this track. This song is for the couple who can make it through anything because, well, the bones are good.

Beginning Middle End - The Greeting Committee (Gabs’ Pick) This song is on the soundtrack for “To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before: Always and Forever” which was released on Netflix on Friday night. I’ve loved the franchise since sophomore year of high school when I read the first Jenny Han novel in the series.

I adored Lara Jean’s sincerity and how much of a hopeless romantic the character was and seeing the books get translated into movies has been so special to me. I won’t spoil where this song plays in the movie, but it’s

part of such a beautiful moment that I had to add it to this happy couple’s section. The Greeting Committee is an indie rock band formed in 2014, while the four members attended high school together. Their first gig was a school talent show and their first song hit local radio waves in 2015.

If you’re single and appreciating your friends Best Friend - Saweetie (feat. Doja Cat) (Nicole’s Pick) Forget about not having a valentine this year, Saweetie and Doja Cat have got you covered. There is no denying that artists Saweetie and Doja Cat have been killing it recently with multiple hit records.

Both artists joining forces on this track makes for the perfect 2021 best friend anthem. If you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day with your gals or “day ones,” this song is the ideal way to get the celebration started with it’s up-beat, catchy, energetic and contagious rhythm.

Roses - The Band Camino (Gabs’ Pick) This track came out in December and was The Band Camino’s first release since August of 2019, and the first release after a member of the group left during the spring.

The Band Camino’s discography is full of largely breakup or angsty songs about love, so this upbeat track — in both sound and lyrics — was a welcome change of pace for fans of the group. Though not explicitly about celebrating your friends, it’s a good reminder that even while you might be feeling down, there’s probably a lot of wonderful things happening all around you in your life and it’s important to take the time to notice it.

BFF ft. Wrabel - Kesha (Gabs’ Pick) Though Kesha may not have been a “good role model” when I was 10, I had always really loved her music. It’s fun music for the sake of being fun, and I love that. Her music has continued to evolve over time and watching her come into her power after facing abuse within the industry has been really wonderful to watch. I wanted to pick one of her dancy songs from 2010, but instead of picking a track that was created in the context of her working with her abuser, I decided to pick this sweet song, a true tribute to friendship, from her 2020 album “High Road.”

If it’s complicated Gravity - Brent Faiyaz & DJ Dahi (feat. Tyler, The Creator) (Nicole’s Pick) “Gravity” is Brent Faiyaz’s

first musical release of 2021.

The instant pop hit creates an ethereal experience for the listener by means of a groovy guitar and mesmerizing bass line. Faiyaz and Tyler reflect on your typical relationship feelings like desire and insecurity.

While the song’s main focus is fidelity, it also draws on its complications, especially with long-distance relationships.

Whether you’re reminiscing about an old hometown flame or having doubts about the longevity of your new college romance, this song relates to you, especially during this time where feeling displaced from our loved ones is inevitable. i love you - Billie Eilish (Nicole’s Pick) The truth is that behind every seemingly happy relationship, there is more than what meets the eye. Eilish’s soft acoustic ballad explores the struggles and feelings of being in a complicated relationship.

There are constant ups and downs, sleepless nights, fears, and doubts to the point where sometimes you can’t help but blame yourself. The song primarily focuses on loving too much and that love not being not being reciprocated. This one will instantly bring you to tears.

Passionfruit - Drake (Nicole’s Pick) I grew up listening to Drake since middle school and easily any one of his songs could have made this playlist. What sets “Passionfruit” apart from Drake’s previous heartbreak records is the intro to the song and its overall upbeat tempo.

Drake starts the song off with comforting banter teasing the listener with what it would be like to see him live. Within the song itself, he opens up a piece of his heart by detailing his side of his relationship. He not only acknowledges the issues in his relationship, but offers and encourages his lover to put the relationship on hold - the

classic “It’s not you, it’s me.”

Release Me - Miette Hope (Gabs’ Pick) Miette Hope is a Brooklyn-based independent artist who has been releasing music since 2017 and has been busy at work, with her most recent release being on Feb. 4 of this year. This song perfectly captures the back and forth that comes when someone cannot commit to you, but keeps you on the line, which then plays with the sincere feelings you have for them. I’m sure that situation sounds familiar to most people, whether you’ve experienced it yourself or had to listen to your best friend flip back and forth between gushing about someone and then angrily ranting about the same person.

Babe, Can I Call? - The Hunna (Gabs’ Pick) This song is from the perspective of someone who made the mistake of leaving someone for someone new and wants to try and get back in touch with the person they left behind. If this sounds like your situation, I’m not saying you should call or you should pick up the phone when they call, but I think you should listen to the song and this whole playlist at least five times before deciding.

Your Type - Carly Rae Jepsen (Gabs’ Pick) I love Carly Rae Jepsen and I think we did her dirty by not listening to her releases after “Call Me Maybe.” Jepsen’s album “Emotion” is “the best pop album of 2015” according to my best friend from high school, and honestly, my friend has a point. So when I had a painfully unrequited crush very shortly after this album’s release, “Your Type” became my song, the song I listened to over and over again. If you ever had it never work out or if it never even had a chance, Ms. Jepsen is here for you.

Scan here to listen to The Quadrangle’s playlist!

FEBRUARY 16, 2021

Arts & Entertainment

Misty Copeland and the American Ballet Theater: A Conversation with Major Allison Ecung Kyla Guilfoil & Caroline McCarthy

Asst. Sports Editor & Asst.

Features Editor Although Manhattan College may be considered small, its connections in the city are large. Recently, Quadrangle staffers became aware that Major Allison Ecung, an assistant professor of the department of air and space studies at the college, has served as a member of the American Ballet Theatre junior council since 2008. ABT is one of the most famous ballet companies in the world and employs well-known artists such as principal dancer Misty Copeland.

“I chose ABT in part because I was a huge fan of Misty’s,” Ecung said. “The junior council is specifically for ballet patrons aged 21 to 40 who love the ballet and want to become more involved with the organization.”

Ecung has served the organization through coordinating outreach programs for younger patrons and was selected to serve as the junior chair for the 2014 Fall Gala and 2020 Spring Gala, which was unfortunately canceled due to COVID-19.

As one might guess from her varying interests, Ecung has had an exceptionally impressive resume. Ecung was raised in Rome, NY where her interest in ballet was inspired by her mother, though Ecung did not pursue much formal training of her own.

“Ballet takes precedence over a lot of other things, so I think my mother kind of steered me away from ballet, but it’s something that I’ve always adored, and I thought was a really beautiful, artistic form,” said Ecung.

Ecung’s admiration for ballet persisted as she received her degree from the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO. Her career in the Air Force has brought her around the

world.

After graduating from the Air Force Academy, she was stationed near Oxford, England as a communications and cyberspace operations officer. After two years on this assignment, Ecung continued her career in Alabama before being deployed to Durst, Central Africa to serve as a counter-narcotics officer.

It wasn’t until 2008 that she was stationed in New York to teach in the ROTC program at Manhattan College. The American Ballet Theatre was the first charitable organization Ecung joined after her arrival in the city.

“I like to be involved in a lot of different things. So, one of the first things I wanted to do when I came to New York, is I wanted to be involved in several of my artistic interests, whether it was the museums that were around or some of the charitable organizations,” Ecung said.

“So, again, knowing Misty Copeland was at ABT, it was kind of what led me to choose to join the American Ballet Theater’s junior council, over other dance organizations.”

But she wasn’t here for long. After this assignment, Ecung left the Air Force full time to become a reservist stationed in New Jersey. During this time, Ecung also worked in Midtown, Manhattan. She then spent a year in Washington, D.C. writing speeches for a three-star general. Her most recent tour was spent in Stuttgart, Germany from 2017-2019 before she returned to New York to teach at Manhattan College during the 2019-2020 academic year.

As Ecung continues teaching here at MC, her love and engagement with ballet persist.

In conversation with The Quadrangle, Ecung shares her insider experiences with the ABT. When Ecung was chosen to be the chair of the 2014 Fall Gala, she was able to spend a lot of time with the dancers,

and also with the organizers who are in charge of running the charity.

“It moves me to think about the amount of work that it takes to organize something like [the ABT], to put an event on, to raise the kind of money that’s needed to fund a major company like [ABT],” said Ecung. “A lot of people don’t realize how much effort these individuals put into it, so I’ve always really appreciated that.”

Ecung shared that she looks forward to the Spring Gala above all else. According to Ecung, the dancers perform a preview of all of their planned performances for the following season during these galas. As a patron, Ecung also gets to speak with the dancers during events.

“I really enjoyed just getting to meet the dancers, and spend time outside of just performances [with them],” said Ecung. “I think, you know, your normal audience just gets to see them from afar, and admire them from afar, but when you’re a member of the junior council, we have a kind of fall event. So, the last time we had one was September 2019, and of course, you get to meet a lot of the dancers.”

Ecung remarked that these conversations are particularly special to her, as ballet dancers are so often idolized and not viewed as common human beings.

“I think in a way we kind of idolize ballet dancers because they are perfect, considered the ideal physical specimens, the ideal athleticism, and so it’s nice to be able to get to know the actual people one on one and see them outside of that perfection,” said Ecung.

Ballet dancers have been inspiring to Ecung since she was young. Especially as a serving member of the Air Force, Ecung must maintain a high level of physical strength and health. Even more so during the pandemic, Ecung shares

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that ballet dancers’ commitment to their athleticism is inspiring to her to maintain her own.

Specifically, Ecung has found inspiration from Misty Copeland, a principal dancer at the American Ballet Theater.

“People told her she didn’t have the right looks, she didn’t have the right body type, but she just worked so hard and she became this inspirational, amazing, world-wide phenomenon, that I think is recognizable everywhere,” said Ecung. “I think anybody can look at that and think, ‘Yeah, I started something late, yes, I’m not normally the type that’s expected to do something, but I can look at this woman that achieved this amazing goal, and now she’s a principal dancer at the premier company in our country’, I think we can all look to that as a form of inspiration in our own lives for anything that we want to achieve.”

Ecung has been particularly impressed with the ABT dancers since the outbreak of COVID-19 last March. Besides retaining their physical standards, the dancers have found ways to perform together, even when they are scattered all over the world.

“When everything got shut down in March, the dancers had been preparing for months and months in advance to prepare for the upcoming season,” said Ecung. “I think the ABT has been so creative in ensuring that they were able to still hold the Spring Gala, so they held the first-ever virtual gala in May 2020, which was really impressive. I know they were able to raise some funds that way. I really loved it, because it really was so unique, it was something that was entirely different. You had dancers that, at that time of May of last year, were all over the country and all over the world. And so, they took the time to film, on their own, parts of the dance, so that it could be incorporated and

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edited together, to create one amazing performance. They’ve done things outside the box since COVID started.”

In addition to a virtual gala, the American Ballet Theater was able to host a fundraising panel in fall 2020. The panel featured the four lead performers of the celebrated dance film, Center Stage. At the time of filming, the dancers were members of the American Ballet Theater, so there was a clear connection to the organization.

Ecung was able to send in questions to the four stars during a cocktail hour event hosted for the ABT patrons before the main panel, which can be found on YouTube. This event was also able to raise funds for the ABT while in-person performances were not possible.

Despite the challenges the ballet industry has faced this year, Ecung has no doubt that it will recover.

“I think that [reopening the ballet] is not something that [can] be rushed, but I think that there’s always going to be a need and a desire for ballet, so I don’t think the ABT is ever going to go anywhere,” said Ecung. “There are always going to be people who love ballet, and who want to be informed in the sport.”

Ecung encourages Manhattan College students to get involved with the ABT if they are interested. She feels that she has gained both incredible friends and experiences because of her involvement with the charity.

“Especially now during COVID, I think we’re especially focused on what we need, and in that, the arts sometimes get overlooked,” said Ecung. “I think there is still as great of a need for [the arts] because it lifts you out, when you’re sad, when you need to focus, when you’re upset, you can just look at this beautiful art form, and support the dancers as well. So, I think it’s a great opportunity”

Sports

FEBRUARY 16, 2021

11

Spring Sports Season is Drawing Near; Teams Schedules are Out Pete Janny Sports Editor

The groundhog may have hinted at six more weeks of winter, but that’s not going to stop student-athletes and coaches from preparing the spring sports season that opens on March 6. That’s because they’ve been through enough doom and gloom already.

Several of Manhattan’s 21 varsity teams felt a weight lifted off their shoulders after the MAAC announced plans for a spring season on Jan. 20. The sports that will be featured this spring in the MAAC are soccer, volleyball, water polo, cross country, track & field, baseball, softball and lacrosse — the first two of which are being carried over from the cancelled fall season. Meanwhile, the swimming and diving season is still being sorted out on the heels of a recent announcement about the MAAC Swimming and Diving Championships being cancelled.

While technically the saga started in March 2020, with the termination of the college basketball tournaments and the onset of lockdowns around the country, the road would soon become even more difficult for student-athletes in July when the fall season was officially scrapped.

The ensuing months saw many of those fall sports, like soccer and volleyball, feel a sense of neglect again as the NCAA’s focus turned to their money-making sports like football and soccer.

“It is the goal of the MAAC to ensure it recognizes a MAAC champion in each sport and it will review possible championship formats for the fall sports in accordance with evolving state and local regulations,” MAAC Commissioner Rich Ensor said after the conference opted out of playing the fall season.

Making the situation even more frustrating for Manhattan and other MAAC schools was that some conferences around the country actually managed to play those same forgotten sports — all the while the student-athletes in the MAAC were consigned to training.

At the time, the impetus for that unfortunate decision was probably made on the basis of reason and scientific data. After all, the MAAC resides in the northeast, which had been and still is one of the most affected regions by the COVID-19 pandemic, and so the risk of play-

ing was higher. Still, that’s not to say the conference undoubtedly made the right decision when looking back.

In the moment, it’s always easy to hedge bets, and in the case of the pandemic it’s virtually impossible to predict what happens next. But look no further than how the MAAC has prioritized the basketball season — there have still been COVID-related stoppages, but that hasn’t cancelled the season. On top of that were the concerns about the spread of the virus in the cold of the winter months, which, of course, coincides with the basketball season too.

Almost ironically, student-athletes will take the field this spring just as they could have done in the fall when COVID-19 numbers in the northeast were the lowest they had been since the start of the pandemic. For instance, on Sept. 19, the last starting date MAAC officials committed to before announcing cancellation, the seven-day moving average for confirmed cases in New York State stood at 451.

In comparison, the seven-day moving average for NYS as of Feb. 9 was 4,395 new cases, with the start of the spring season only a few weeks.

The discrepancy in data from the fall to the present is hard to ignore; at this point there’s nothing left to do but remain hopeful that the numbers take a steep dive before the start of the season.

When coaches and players speak, there’s not as somber a tone like there was back in the fall now that there’s finally light at the end of the tunnel. From the beginning, the logistics were always out of the control of coaches. Now, they’re just happy to have the chance to play in the spring, regardless of what could’ve been done differently in the past.

“We’re just so fortunate to be playing,” men’s soccer coach Jorden Scott told the Quad.

“The schedule’s a little whacky.

In the beginning we play one game a week and at the end it’s a little cramped but we’ll take anything we can get as long there’s something to play for.

It doesn’t matter the number of games it’s just the idea of winning the MAAC Championship in any format and that’s what our guys are motivated by.”

The last time Scott coached his team in an actual game was Fall 2019, which is by far the longest he’s been away from the grind of coaching. Since then, he’s also endured im-

The COVID-19 numbers in New York City were markedly lower early in the fall season even though the MAAC chose to scrap all fall sports.

NYC HEALTH / COURTESY mense turnover on his roster due to players graduating and others moving to the professional ranks — such as was the case for Francois D’ulysse, who departed the program earlier than expected after getting drafted 51st overall by the New England Revolution in the MLS SuperDraft.

Nowadays, Scott and other coaches are dealing with the challenge of developing team chemistry for the start of the season, despite limited practice time.

“The challenge for our program is, can we have that consistent turnover and be still able to compete at the top end of the MAAC? We think we have the latent, but we’re going into a huge unknown because we don’t know who we’re playing against, we have no video footage of anybody, so there’s just so much unknown.”

Men’s lacrosse head coach Drew Kelleher was in the midst of his team’s season last spring when the onset of the pandemic led to an abrupt ending to all of it. Suddenly there were no more lacrosse games to be played, and instead Kelleher’s focus turned to bidding farewell to his seniors far earlier

than expected.

Almost a year later, his program is retooled and features a combination of graduate students playing out their final season of eligibility and a freshman class that is nine players deep. Kelleher also got to witness one of his own players turn professional when Kelson Borisenko was drafted in the fourth round, 64th overall by the Saskatchewan Rush in the 2020 National Lacrosse League Draft.

All the recent activity around the program suggests that better days may be on the horizon after a year filled with constant uncertainty.

“Our goals this year are as high as they have ever been,” Kelleher said in reference to the ultimate goal of winning a MAAC Championship. “We think we have a strong core of leaders that not just want to win but are willing to do whatever it takes.”

In the northeast, the sight of no fans at games has become the norm during the pandemic. However, that looks to be coming to an end sooner rather than later, at least in professional sports, in light of Governor Cuomo’s announcement that

sporting venues will start to welcome fans back on Feb. 24 with strict limitations.

The MAAC, however, has yet to indicate when fans can return and have already extended that policy through the end of the MAAC Basketball Tournament, which will take place again in Atlantic City from March 9-13.

“Honestly I think all that stuff is the icing on the cake,” Scott said in regards to the possibility of there being no fans allowed at games. “I think the fact that we’re just able to throw on a uniform and go out and play is rewarding and motivating in and of itself.”

The wait has been long enough for these programs. In all likelihood, it will feel equally weird and refreshing once they’re officially back doing what they do best. But rest assured, once the first goal is scored or the first home run is hit, the fury of competition will return. Because as badly as the players and coach will want to stay safe, they just as badly will want to win.

Sports

12

THE QUADRANGLE

Jared Diamond Previews Upcoming Talk and Teaching Plans for Fall 2021 Pete Janny & Anna Woods

Sports Editor & Editor-in-Chief The Manhattan College communications department has found a diamond in the treasure chest of journalists; not the rough.

Since 2017, Jared Diamond has served as the national baseball writer for The Wall Street Journal working for the publication in different roles since 2011, including one season as the New York Yankees beat writer and three as the New York Mets beat writer. After graduating from Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Communications, Diamond, still only 32 years old, has enjoyed a fast track to stardom in the sports journalism industry. Diamond has seen it all in recent years from traveling to MLB ballparks to witnessing the biggest MLB interviews.

None of that will be changing for Diamond anytime soon.

However, Diamond does have a new endeavor to look forward to as an adjunct professor in the communications department.

Diamond, who currently resides in Jersey City, New Jersey with his wife, is scheduled to teach a sports writing and reporting class next semester at Manhattan. His addition to the department figures to have a huge impact on the expansion of the sports media concentration at the college, which in recent years has seen a lot of growth, thanks in large part to the arrival of the ESPN production truck.

“I’m very excited for us to work with a relatively young journalist who is familiar with the job market and the kinds of things students will need to learn,” said Michael Quinn, associate professor in the Communication Department. “It’s great when adjuncts can move directly from their work to the classroom, particularly when they are as skilled as Jared.”

In anticipation for Diamond’s arrival next Fall, the Communications Department has invited him to give a virtual talk on Feb. 23 that will be open to every member of the community. Plenty about Diamond’s career in the industry—including his insights into the Houston Astros sign-stealing scandal—will be discussed, and he will also try to delve into his expectations for the class next semester — although the

bulk of the curriculum is still being planned out. Anybody qualified enough to be in academia can teach the basics of a subject, but Diamond is looking to bring more than just that as someone who is well versed in the contemporary trends of the industry.

“The one thing I learned from being an industry is just how crucial story idea generation is and how to come up with ideas that are new and original and haven’t been written before,” Diamond said.

Diamond’s dream job from an early age was to cover baseball. Like many other sports journalists, Diamond had his own dreams of playing the game before settling on the next best thing: the chance to write about it. Technically, his experiences covering the Chicago Cubs’ historic World Series run in 2016 and the Astros scandal in 2019 were work responsibilities; even though it felt like the farthest thing from that for someone as passionate about journalism as Diamond is.

“I was sort of born to write about baseball, obviously, my name, people often will bring that up that it’s fitting that this is my job,” Diamond said jokingly. “So I guess I didn’t really choose baseball as much as it was chosen for me. But you know, I loved it. [Baseball] was always my favorite sport, really… it was sort of where I really wanted to be.”

Just because Diamond’s specialty is within sports does not make him feel more or less included in the greater community of journalists — that’s because the art of news reporting has parallels across the spectrum of the industry. Diamond actually sees himself as more of just a sports journalist given the wide range of topics that overlap with the sports world.

“Sportswriting forces you to flex every single part of your journalistic brand,” Diamond said. “ In the span of a week, you could be covering, you know, science or health, and then labor, and then economics, and then crime, whatever else is every sort of piece of the puzzle that makes the newspaper tick, all plays into sports somehow.. And I think that’s definitely been a good lesson during the pandemic, just how many hats you’d have to wear in this job.”

As cliche as it may sound, the suggestion that it’s never too early to start becoming a

journalist resonates with many professional writers like Diamond. He started doing journalistic work at age 15 before taking his talents to The Daily Orange, the student newspaper of Syracuse University, where he worked his way up to sports editor.

The memories and lessons connected back to his time at Syracuse are things he’ll never forget, because he was challenged in ways that helped mold him into a professional.

Like, for instance, the legendary six overtime game between Syracuse and UConn in the quarterfinals of the 2009 Big East Tournament at Madison Square Garden. Diamond and one other writer had the pleasure, and challenge, of covering that game, which is something he says he’ll never forget.

It’s stories like that which make being a journalist so rewarding.

“That was an incredibly,

incredibly memorable experience,” Diamond said of being at Madison Square Garden on Mar. 12, 2009. “Because one it was just an insanely historic game. But my memories of it was what it was like being a college journalist covering something like that.”

According to Diamond, the key to becoming great is to write, write, write and write some more. By practicing the mechanics, as well as unearthing unique ideas, any journalist puts themselves in a position to stand out.

“The best way to learn how to be a journalist is to do journalism,” Diamond said. “If you have a good idea, don’t just sit on it, go write it, go find someone that will publish it, you’ll be surprised someone will.

Diamond’s upcoming lecture looks like the perfect introduction to the college community, especially for the students

interested in journalism. Diamond’s hoping for a nice turnout, not only because of what he has to say, but since he too is excited to reciprocate the interest and respect that the community will likely show toward him. In choosing to join the Communication Department, Diamond has already signaled his commitment to investing in the potential of aspiring journalists at the college. “[Journalism] is not dead,” Diamond said. “The way I know that is because the demand for the work that journalists do has never been higher. There will be journalism, and there will be a way to make it work.”

And with that, off he went to covering Trevor Bauer’s introductory press conference with the Los Angeles Dodgers as if it was just another day in the life of a national baseball writer.

Jared Diamond will be joining Manhattan College this fall to teach the Sports Reporting and Writing class.

DAVID TEBBI/ COURTESY

The virtual talk about his work will be held Tuesday 2/23 at 7 p.m.

Sponsored by the Communication Department.

the Quadrangle