Issue 16 vol 81

QUChronicle.com February 8, 2012 Volume 81 Issue 16

Arts and life

A man with pride, page 12

news

Students work with mummies, page 5

sports

Senior class builds program, page 17

Student arrested during Super Bowl celebration Professor’s

son dies after Sleeping Giant fall

By matt eisenberg Sports Editor

One student was arrested after breaking a window in a sophomore residential building after the New York Giants beat the New England Patriots, 21-17, Sunday night in Super Bowl XLVI. Many other Giants fans ran across Mount Carmel campus, yelling, screaming and celebrating after the Patriots lost to the Giants in the Super Bowl for the second time in four years.

Campus security and residential assistants were patrolling the campus to make sure students celebrated under control. Chief of Security David Barger said there were extra staff members in residential life areas and additional Hamden police officers patrolling off-campus areas.

“We weren’t as bad as UMassAmherst, were we?” Barger said, referring to the 1,500 people rioting around campus and 14 arrests following the Super Bowl.

See arrest Page 6

By Kim Green News Editor

Tobias Engel was pronounced dead Sunday night after falling 200 feet from the chin area of Sleeping Giant, according to WTNH. The 18-year-old Hamden High School student was son of Len Engel, a professor of English at Quinnipiac, who returned to the classroom this week.

“The university community was saddened to learn of the death of Tobias Engel, the son of Professor Len Engel, following a fall Sunday at Sleeping Giant State Park,” said Lynn Bushnell, vice president for public affairs. “Our condolences go out to Professor Engel and his fammatt eisenberg/chronicle

A student was arrested Sunday after breaking a window in Village during a Super Bowl celebration.

See fall Page 6

Class of 2012 announces commencement speakers By staci canny Staff Writer

The keynote speakers for the 2012 Commencement ceremonies in May will be business executive Stephen A. Schwarzman and Susan G. Komen founder Nancy G. Brinker.

The announcement came in a joint statement made by Class of 2012 President Emily Sarnoff and Vice President Dan Scott last Friday.

“I think what these two people have done is incredible and so will the other students,” Sarnoff said. “It just might take a little bit of time to understand what these people do and who they are.

“But, when the time comes, I think our time will be well spent sitting and listening to hear what they have to say.”

Scott said Donald Weinbach, vice president for development & alumni affairs, was able to help find and secure these two For an explanation of speakers. the selection process, “ W e refer to “The ends do w o uldn’t not justify the means” be able to get as high of a caliber speaker as we’ve had in the past, so we were

VALENTINE’S DAY

INSIDE:

page 9

really looking for speakStephen Schwarzman ers that would be able to American billionaire focus on the schools that private equity financier they would be speaking to,” cofounder and CEO of Blackstone Scott said.

52nd wealthiest person in Schwarzman will speak America (2011) at the morning session for TIME Magazine's "100 Most the School of Business and Influential People" (2007) the College of Arts and Sci- photo courtesy of remy steinegger ences starting at 10. Brinker will speak at the afterNancy Brinker founder of Susan G. Komen noon ceremony at 3 for the For the Cure (1982) School of Health Sciences TIME Magazine’s “100 Most and School of CommunicaInfluential People” (2008) tions.

US Ambassador to Hungary Karla Natale, director (2001-2003) US Chief Protocol (2007of special events, said that 2009) there was an increased chal“Ladies Home Journal 100 lenge this year to find two Most Important Women of speakers of equal caliber or the 20th Century” someone who would stay “Biography Magazine’s 25 Most Powerful Women in the for both ceremonies.

World” Students have the opphoto courtesy of elaine kostia portunity to listen to both speakers if the ceremonies are held ences in May, feels the choice was outdoors on the Quad. If the ceremo- not targeted to her and her peers.

“It is not fair,” said Buttendorf, nies have to be held indoors due to severe weather, students will need a a psychology major. “Just because I am graduating with business stuticket to attend the other ceremony.

Kelsey Buttendorf, a student dents, doesn’t mean they should be expected to graduate with a degree from the College of Arts and SciSee commencement Page 6

Campus events for Valentine’s Day, page 3 Romantic comedies crossword, page 7 Valentine’s Day word search, page 7 Two editors offer their takes on the holiday, page 8 Campus Couture: Valentine Edition, page 13

matt eisenberg/Chronicle

Check out photos from Saturday’s acrobatics and tumbling meet, pages 16 & 20 See full gallery at www.quchronicle.com

2|News

Campus briefs

Have you heard any news that you think Quinnipiac students would care about?

Please, tell us: tips@quchronicle.com

Let the rushing begin Feb. 3 marked the beginning of the semester for fraternity members in Burt Kahn Court to welcome this semester’s rush class. During the session, pledges were able to walk around to the different areas where the fraternities were stationed and talk to brothers in order to get a sense of what each fraternity has to offer.

Continuing this week, each fraternity will put on a variety of events that pledges can attend to spend more time with the fraternities. These events will go on as scheduled all week until Wednesday, Feb. 15 when fraternities will begin to hand out bids and accept their next pledge class. – A.T.

‘Senior Week’ tickets on sale Seniors stood in line in the student center waiting to buy their Senior Week tickets the day they went on sale on Jan. 31. According to Stephen Pagios, 175 tickets were sold at $295 each during the first week of ticket sales. Tickets will be on sale until March 30.

This year’s Senior Week will begin on May 17 and last until May 19. The various activities will consist of trips to Terminal 110 in New Haven, Mohegan Sun and Holiday Hill to enjoy outdoor festivities. The seniors-only weekend with conclude with a banquet at the Oakdale Theater. – A.T.

Recycling system streamlined

The Quinnipiac Chronicle

SPORTS Program Added to Grad School Lineup By daniel grosso Contributing Writer

Quinnipiac’s graduate journalism program is about to step up its game.

The School of Communications will add two new journalism tracks next fall, one focusing on sports. However, while there will be new sports areas of study, the addition is not a new degree.

“It’s a track graduate students can select in our journalism program,” Director of the Graduate Program in Journalism Richard Hanley said. Hanley likened the new program to the print and broadcast tracks undergraduate students can currently choose from.

Graduate students in the new program will graduate after one year with a master’s degree in journalism with a focus in sports reporting, according to Hanley.

The move comes at a time when sports media is booming in the region, and it only makes sense for Quinnipiac to expand its program, Hanley said.

“We are, at Quinnipiac, uniquely located within a cluster,” Hanley said. “We have this extraordinary area of sports media venues, and we aim to prepare students to succeed in this area.”

From Boston to Philadelphia, the area surrounding Quinnipiac is home to many sports networks, including: ESPN, NESN, YES, NBC, MSG, SNY and the NHL, MLB and NBA networks. Quinnipiac has already established relationships with these networks as some presently employ QU graduate journalism students, while others have hired Quinnipiac alumni, Hanley said.

Dean of the School of Communications Lee Kamlet said the school has already spoken with NBC Sports and both are excited about new internship and job opportunities the new program will open.

“We are uniquely positioned here. No other university is better situated,” Kamlet said.

Quinnipiac has more than just a geographical advantage and is well equipped to start the new program. Professor Hanley assured adjuncts in the new sports program will be top level personnel in their field and can bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to Quinnipiac’s community.

The sports track’s format will be identical

The interest group Zeta Beta Tau, a traditionally Jewish fraternity, was recently given the green light to appear at the upcoming open house this spring for male students to consider as an option. In 2009 ZBT was a finalist in Quinnipiac’s expansion process, alongside fraternity Delta Tau Delta and Pi Kappa Phi, according to Assistant Director of the Student Center and Campus Life Courtney McKenna.

At the time, the university decided to only move ahead with the two fraternities, but left ZBT as a future option for the expansion committee made up of faculty, students and staff.

In the last year, there has been a steady number of students who have maintained interest in a potential ZBT chapter at Quinnipiac. – M.M.

Professor Rich Hanley is director of the graduate program in journalism. to the current graduate journalism program, offering courses across the disciplines of print, broadcast and multimedia journalism, according to Hanley. The new track allows students to focus on the world of sports within the field of journalism through hands-on classes.

Courses in the new program will be tightly focused and will demand the best of all students. One course will be a six-credit clinical workshop that simulates a real newsroom, Hanley said. Students will make decisions and create stories based on their own discretion and will need to work together to create the best product. The newsroom will be monitored, but not led, by an instructor.

Focus in the sports program will expand past the traditional four sports of baseball, basketball, football and hockey, and will prepare students to report on growing sports such as Mixed Martial Arts, the X Games, the Olympics and other action sports.

“We’re offering these special areas because we believe it will help students succeed,” Hanley said.

Graduate students will also learn to report on sports from more than just a game’s angle.

Hanley said he wants students to see beyond the game and “cover sports as a deeply human, deeply emotional activity, one that impacts those around the world.”

Quinnipiac is also bringing in new technologies and gives students access to some of the

lesly alvarez/chronicle

top gear in the industry. GoPro HD cameras will be available to give students new visual angles to work into their pieces. The cameras are small and ideal for focusing on athletes for crisp, first-person shots.

“Our goal is to be as innovative as possible with technology and ideas,” Hanley said.

“We’re like athletes ourselves in that way, looking at game film.”

Sports studies is already one of the most popular minors at Quinnipiac. Dean Kamlet estimated more than 100 communications students are currently enrolled as sports studies minors. The new program is geared toward these students and encouraging further education.

“My hope is students will want to stay for that fifth year,” Kamlet said.

The new one-year track will be offered beginning in this fall, but could become its own degree program in future years. The school will also add a long-form journalism track in the fall, focusing on documentaries, magazine writing and investigative reporting, Kamlet said.

“We hope that eventually there will be a master’s program,” Kamlet said. “Sports journalism could have its own degree path.”

Before the school can offer sports journalism as its degree it needs to be approved by the Faculty Senate, the Academic Affairs Department and the state of Connecticut.

St. Baldrick’s is back

Quinnipiac has officially transitioned to a single-stream recycling system. This means no longer having to separate recyclables into different bins. The blue baskets located around campus will be used to dispose of plastic products numbered one through seven, magazines, newspapers and catalogs. Examples of non-recyclable items that should stay out of these bins include garbage, plastic bags and food waste.

The former recycling logos on campus will be replaced with the generic recycling symbol to represent single-stream recycling. – R.H.

QU Greek life welcomes ZBT

Fe b r u a r y 8 , 2 0 1 2

katie o’brien/Chronicle

Students pre-register to shave their heads to raise awareness about childhood cancer at SPB’s St. Baldrick’s fundraising event on March 6.

By olivia grattan Contributing Writer

The Student Programming Board hosted the 2012 St. Baldrick’s Kick-Off Monday night, rallying students to shave their heads for childhood cancer.

The event gave students the opportunity to pre-register for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation fundraiser, which will be held on March 6 in Burt Kahn from 7-11 p.m. The St. Baldrick’s Foundation’s mission

is a commitment to funding the most promising research to find cures for childhood cancers and give survivors long and healthy lives.

“If you don’t want to shave your head, you are still encour-

aged to come,” said Kristen Cagney, SPB member. “Students can register to shave their heads to raise awareness, volunteer or fundraise. Last year there was a huge turn-out of over 400 people. It’s an awesome event.”

Got issues? So do we. Join us.

The Chronicle staff meets Tuesdays at 9:15 p.m. in TH106

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The Quinnipiac Chronicle

Chartwells channels Cupid on campus

By Mackenzie Malone Contributing Writer

The Quinnipiac Student Center and Chartwells have teamed up again for this year’s Valentine’s Day festivities.

On Feb. 14, the Quinnipiac community is invited to spend the evening at the Rocky Top Student Center on York Hill where Chef Mark Fugaro and his staff are holding a Valentine’s Day dinner from 6 to 9 p.m.

Stefano Fasulo, associate director of the student center and campus life, said an area on the second floor of Rocky Top will be transformed into a private restaurant.

“We are teaming up to think outside the box and utilize space as best we can,” Fasulo said.

The night will be complete with music, candles, wait staff and a three-course meal. The event will cost 20 dollars for anyone that wishes to participate.

Dinner includes a salad, choice of an entree and, of course, dessert.

Three different entree options are available, as well as alternatives for the vegetarian appetite.

“Chef Mark is creating a menu that, quite frankly, in terms of whats available off the campus I don’t think you could get a better deal,” Fasulo said.

Fasulo and Fugaro have worked on the event since last semester to make Valentine’s Day a success for people who don’t wish to leave campus in order to celebrate.

“For 20 dollars you get the whole entire experience without having to leave campus and worry about big lines, the hustle and bustle, the reservations,” Fasulo said.

The event is not limited to couples.

Fasulo encourages groups of up to six people to make reservations.

Last year marked the first time the event was held, with around 20 people attending. This year, Fasulo has his sights set on 50 guests.

“I think it has some solid ground to it since last year,” Fasulo said.

Fasulo recommends that people who wish to attend the event buy their tickets before, even though walk-ins are welcome. Reservations can be made with any Rocky Top Cafe Cashier.

News|3

New shuttle stop for York Hill

stephanie osmanski/chronicle

A new covered shuttle stop has been added to the Westview side of the Rocky Top Student Center.

Valenskate for valentines at the Bank

By Rebecca humphrey Contributing Writer

On Feb. 14, valentines and friends alike are encouraged to join the free skate in the TD Bank

Sports Center, home to the men’s and women’s basketball and hockey teams, from 7 to 10 p.m. Ice skates, hot cocoa and snacks will be provided at this event, which is being

senior portrait sessions

sponsored by the SGA’s Sophomore Class Cabinet.

To top off the night, there will be gift giveaways and roses for that special someone or that lucky friend.

-Feb. 14-17, 20-23 -9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

-in Rocky Top Student Center, room 310 www.quyearbook.com

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Mond ay, Fe b. 13th • Advertise upcoming events • Advertise7upcoming events pm • Broadcast the time and • Broadcast and Fathe culttime y Dini location of meetings location of meetings ng Ha Upsta ll irsyou • Let us interview you or staff members • Let us interview staff members Caor f e J oi n u s about your organization to tell listeners about your organization to tell listeners semes to kick of f the • Host your own radio show and • Host your ownte radio and r wishow th piz zayou, ! broadcast whatever interests you, broadcast whatever interests or share a time slot among members

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Africa to peace and prosperity.

The Quinnipiac Chronicle

4|News

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Education Music department’s new director transposes fresh ideas reform inspires new group on campus By katherine rojas Associate News Editor

By Bridgette fossel Contributing Writer

Inspired by “Waiting for Superman,” a 2010 documentary film showing the failures of the American public education system, Quinnipiac junior Jordan Nadler has made it his mission to ensure all children have the opportunity for an excellent education.

Students for Education Reform, a national organization whose goal is to mobilize the next generation to close the educational gap for children, formed a chapter at Quinnipiac last December.

“About a year ago I watched the movie, ‘Waiting For Superman’ and saw that there is this huge educational inequality in America,” said Nadler, Quinnipiac’s SFER chapter leader. “Nothing had struck me like that before, and I just felt like I should do something about it or get involved. So, I applied to start a chapter.”

Two Princeton University undergraduates who wanted to speed up the pace of educational change in America founded SFER in 2009, according to a TIME report. Their objective was to encourage college students to get involved in educational reform and have an impact on public policy. The organization now has 71 chapters nationwide with five located in Connecticut.

After spending a semester writing a constitution and searching for an advisor, the chapter received national recognition, Nadler said.

“We are trying to influence policy in Connecticut to help close the achievement gap,” said SFER vice president Ryan Jean-Joseph. JeanJoseph, a junior, plans to join the Teach for America program after graduation.

The five-member e-board plans to visit local schools and hold an off-campus rally to help support Connecticut education legislation, according to Nadler. At SFER meetings, there will be movie screenings that support education reform as well as discussions on achievement gaps, teachers unions, charter and public schools, lottery screenings and Teach for America.

“We are trying to spread awareness regarding the achievement gap and about educational inequality in America,” Nadler said. “A lot of the students here come from middle and upper class communities and went to relatively good public or private schools and don’t see the dysfunction in some of the schools in America.”

In addition to QU, the University of Connecticut, Yale University, Trinity College and Wesleyan University also have chapters in Connecticut. Nadler and Jean-Joseph hope to share ideas and host meetings with those schools in the future, Nadler said.

Quinnipiac welcomed George Sprengelmeyer as director of music this past fall, replacing Sam Costanzo who retired from the position after holding it for 52 years.

Quinnipiac notified Sprengelmeyer that it was looking for someone with administrative experience who was a well-established musician.

At the time, he had been giving guitar classes at Misericordia University for seven years and was the chair of the visual and performing arts department. He decided to apply for music director at Quinnipiac, not expecting to get the position, and was thrilled once he did.

As his first project, Sprengelmeyer plans to focus on improving the music groups.

“The ensembles here were pretty non-functional,” Sprengelmeyer admitted. “We had chorus that was a lot of pop music, and we had a jazz band that had one student in it.”

The first step was hiring new professionals to lead the groups.

“We’re hoping that [the choral ensemble] will become a little bit more professional and not focusing so much on popular music and a little more on art music and classical music and a number of different possibilities, making it a little bit more academic and simply a student group,” Sprengelmeyer said.

Sprengelmeyer sees the music department as a service to all the students.

“I really think that everyone should have an opportunity to play music on campus and experience the fun of playing an ensemble regardless of what their major is,” Sprengelmeyer said.

The opportunity to perform and play is going to increase dramatically in the short term, he said, as performances by two acapella groups and a glee club are expected this semester.

Sprengelmeyer also had 25 students that petitioned him to offer a symphony orchestra for the upcoming fall semester.

“The potential to grow here is amazing,” Sprengelmeyer said. “This could really be a great program and great service to this university and it’s all ready to happen.”

Sprengelmeyer said he plans to offer new classes in spring 2013, including a Latin American music class. He said students at Misericordia were not interested in learning diverse subject matters about music.

“My specialty is Latin American, South American/Brazilian music,” Sprengelmeyer said. “So I thought that perhaps what I do and what I enjoy doing would be better received on this campus.”

In the fall, the music department will begin giving private piano and voice lessons and shortly after, Sprengelmeyer hopes to open it up so students can study any musical instrument of their choice as a credit class.

Quinnipiac offers a music minor which requires students “to master the rudiments of musical theory and applied guitar, and to emerge with a comprehensive view of music history as well as the fundamentals of informed listening,” according to Quinnipiac’s website.

There are 10 music classes offered at Quin-

anna brundage/chronicle

Greg Sprengelmeyer, Quinnipiac’s new director of music, plans to focus on improving the music groups. nipiac and two courses offered on an “as needed” basis. There are nine part-time music professors; Sprengelmeyer is the only full-time faculty member for the music department. Quinnipiac let professor and choral director Fred Rossomando go last semester.

Sophomore Stephanie Griffin, a media studies major and music minor, disagrees with Sprengelmeyer’s goals and believes Rossomando’s exit was untimely.

“I was shocked to hear Rossomando was terminated after the fall semester when I couldn’t take QU Singers for the extra credit and had to wait until the spring to do so,” Griffin said. “Since Sprengelmeyer changed the requirements for QU Singers to be taken only for credit, the size of the chorus has also downgraded, and many people who want to sing can’t because they can’t fit it into their schedules.”

Griffin also had Costanzo as her Music Theory I professor. After he announced to her class that he would not be teaching Music Theory II in the spring, she created a Facebook page titled “Let Sam Costanzo teach in Spring 2012.” The page did not pick up steam, as it only accumulated nine likes. Costanzo will, however, continue teaching music theory classes in the fall, Sprengelmeyer said.

Sprengelmeyer took action to revise the music department by hiring new faculty, adding new positions, and improving the choral groups, including professor Kyle Saulnier as the new jazz director and professor Max Blum as the new choral director.

As the new director of the music department, Sprengelmeyer’s goal is to teach students a new way of seeing classical music and to let students realize it’s applicable.

Musician and sophomore Thomas Holmes plans to minor in music. Holmes plays the guitar and piano and has experience playing the saxophone. Holmes said he dreams of growing Quinnipiac’s music department.

“I wish there was a bigger program and a possibility to be a music major,” Holmes said. “It seems like Sprengelmeyer is trying to expand the music department which is what I want to see.”

But a music major is probably not going to be offered in the near future, Sprengelmeyer said. He would consider offering a music George Sprengelmeyer major, he said,

only if he was sure there was an opportunity or a better-than-average chance students would be able to get a full-time career in music.

Junior Andrew Belliveau said he would be a music major if it was offered. Instead, he is a double major in film, video and interactive media and interactive digital design. He thinks future students will be impressed with Sprengelmeyer’s plans.

“Dr. Sprengelmeyer is what the music department needs to begin transforming into something bigger,” Belliveau said. “His understanding of the needs of modern day students and modern day music is spot on, and will make the program develop based on the changing of times.”

New grief group helps students cope

By Robert grant Staff Writer

Denial, anger, bargaining (the what ifs), depression and acceptance make up the five stages of grief, and the newly-formed Healing from Grief group at Quinnipiac helps students through those stages.

The Healing from Grief group, started by Protestant Minister Susan Fowler, gives students who have experienced death in any way a chance to share their feelings. The group met for the first time Tuesday and will continue to meet for seven weeks in Tator Hall

106. After the second meeting, the group will close to newcomers to maintain intimacy, according to Fowler. Confidentiality is guaranteed for all who attend.

“In this context, it’s good to know that others are experiencing the same things,” said Fowler, who has a degree in pastoral counseling.

“To know that it’s okay is a comforting thing.”

Having recently experienced grief herself, Fowler knows how helpful it is to spend time with people who understand where you are coming from.

The meetings begin with discussion of questions like “how are you experiencing your loss?” according to Fowler. Students then have private time to reflect and share their thoughts with the group.

The group helps individuals be proactive by taking steps to regain hope and strength.

“You have to discover a new normal,” Fowler said. “That person will no longer be there for family and friend gatherings and the group helps get you through that by providing support, resources and the presence of people.”

As a member of the ministry, Fowler will make herself available after the group meetings have ended.

“As chaplain, I am here for people as an internal resource,” Fowler said.

Following the passing of junior Nick Lucaj in December, Fowler noticed that several students in her class had difficulty coping with their grief, so she offered a service of remembrance.

“It’s important for people who have experienced a trauma to have a ritual to reflect on that experience,” Fowler said.

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The Quinnipiac Chronicle

News|5

Quinnipiac wrapped in mummy project

photo courtesy of Quinnipiac University

Students will have the opportunity to work with professors and other scientists in the field on a mummy imaging project thanks to a $165,000 National Science Foundation grant.

By Marcus harun Web Developer

Quinnipiac does not have a mummy major, but students do have the chance to work on an international mummy imaging project after two professors received part of a National Science Foundation grant.

The grant will be used to create the world’s first international database of mummy scans. Professors and scientists can collaborate by sharing their X-rays, CT scans and other images of mummified remains with other researchers around the world.

“We’re an integral part of the grant because our Bioanthropology

Research Institute is probably one of the most active imaging research institutes in the world,” said Ronald Beckett, professor emeritus of pathophysiology. Beckett and professor of diagnostic imaging Jerry Conlogue are co-executive directors of the institute and have studied more than 1,000 mummies worldwide.

Quinnipiac will provide data and support for the researchers, as well as recruit contributors to the database. Students will have the chance to aid professors in digitizing data and categorizing archives of mummy images.

The $165,000 grant was awarded to a team of researchers based out

of the University of Western Ontario, whom Quinnipiac’s research institute has worked with for years.

Beckett, Conlogue and their students have traveled to Ireland, England, France, Italy, Mexico, Thailand, Ecuador, Chile and the Philippines to study and scan mummies.

“People don’t realize it but you can find mummies all over the world,” said Conlogue, who has been scanning unconventional remains for 45 years and mummies for 26. “There really isn’t any content – except possibly Antarctica – where you wouldn’t find mummified remains.

“I train people to do X-rays and

how to do CT scans. I’ve always been interested in trying to apply medical imaging techniques to nonmedical situations. So I’ve done things like wildlife applications like X-raying seal flippers and artifacts like pottery.”

Students learn advanced techniques in imaging while scanning mummies because there are no presets on the machines for mummified remains, Conlogue said. They learn problem solving skills while figuring out how to do these uncommon tests.

“We actually are opening a window into the past,” Conlogue said.

“We’re seeing what life was like.

Right now all we have is text, written word. They can sometimes be slanted. But here we have the actual individuals who were alive during a period of history. Their life history is really written in their bones, their skeletons, their teeth, their bodies.”

According to Conlogue, mummies are created either by burying a corpse in a very dry place like a desert or by removing organs then artificially drying the body. If all the water is removed from the body’s tissues, the corpse will dry out and stay preserved as a mummy.

“These mummies are actually testifying to what their life was like,” Conlogue said.

University forces students to change password

By LAUREN EPIFANIO Contributing Writer

Quinnipiac introduced a new policy Feb. 1, requiring students to change their MyQ password every 180 days to keep up with university audit requirements.

After three years of drafting, Information Security Officer Brian Kelly completed the “Password Policy.” The policy was passed by the Quinnipiac President’s Cabinet and Faculty Senate on July 1, 2009. Two and a half years later, the policy was implemented.

The network hosts 8,000 users and about 20,000 devices in total with approximately three computers, cell phones or tablets per person, according to Kelly. With the

student body continuing to grow, Kelly, who has been at the university since 2006, saw the necessity of instituting a way to protect campus accounts.

“I was new to QU and so was having a password policy,” Kelly said. “It took time to make sure the policy went through the proper approval process. We should’ve been changing passwords to begin with.”

In the first few weeks of the semester, groups of students were randomly chosen to have a time limit placed on their accounts to change their passwords, Kelly said. If the students did not update their password within 14 days, their account would be locked. To get back in, they must create a new one. Once

they change their passwords, they have a 180-day grace period before having to repeat the same steps.

“I think it’s just another thing for students to complain about,” freshman Aleczander Farquharson said.

“It’s not really a big deal, but it’s the combination of all the little things that really affects the students and gets on their nerves.”

One benefit of this change is a smaller time window in which a user’s account can get hacked, keeping in mind the user recently changed his or her password due to the new policy, Kelly said.

“I don’t see a huge problem with it,” sophomore Jordan Paolucci said.

“I mean, it’s annoying to change the password every six months, but

I’ll probably end up just switching between two passwords the whole time. At least we know our email security is on par.”

The “Password Policy” has been on Kelly’s “hot list” for over a year.

New passwords must contain upper and lower case letters as well as a numeral. Students also have the option of adding a special character.

Another safety feature is that the passwords will expire, ensuring that users will change and protect their account credentials every 180 days.

“It is honestly an annoying process, but I understand in the end the policy is in place for the students and faculty’s well-being,” junior Alexandra Kidman said.

Another benefit of this new poli-

cy will be less exposure to phishing, links from alias email addresses that take the form of popular ones, such as university emails and Amazon. com. These attacks prompt the email recipients to click the link in hopes of getting access to their private accounts.

Phishing is one of Kelly’s main concerns. Kelly said that when it comes to the Quinnipiac community, students are not apprehensive about clicking links. This “reinforces what I was worried about, folks aren’t reading,” Kelly said. “They’re just clicking that link and that’s what the bad guys rely on.”

Kelly expects all students will have to change their passwords by the end of the month.

The Quinnipiac Chronicle

6|News

Student arrested during Super Bowl celebration

Professor’s son dies after Sleeping Giant fall

matt eisenberg/chronicle

Students celebrate outside of Village after the Super Bowl.

Class of 2012 announces commencement speakers: Stephen Schwarzman, Nancy Brinker commencement from cover

arrest from cover “There was a lot of riddling and a lot of boo-hooing,” Barger said.

“There was no major incident aside from the window.”

Two students who live in the Village 430 building had their window broken and shattered.

"We heard a loud crash, we went running and the window was broken,” said one of the students, who wished to remain anonymous. “We went outside, saw a kid running away.”

The person who broke the window was arrested and charged with criminal mischief and breach of peace, Barger said. Security told the student that the window was going to be boarded up for the night and repaired Monday morning.

“I was pretty pissed off that my window just got broken,” the other student said. “It is what it is, can't do much about it.”

The Hamden Police Department was not available for comment at press time.

Fe b r u a r y 8 , 2 0 1 2

lesly alvarez/chronicle

Tobias Engel, son of Quinnipiac English professor Len Engel, was pronounced dead Sunday night after falling 200 feet from the chin area of Sleeping Giant, according to WTNH. fall from cover ily during this very difficult time.”

Engel had been hiking before sundown when he fell from the cliff. Chief David Bernardesca from the Hamden Fire Department said that he was conscious and waving to rescue workers when they reached him.

Engel was rushed to Yale-New Haven Hospital, but passed Sunday evening, the Department of Energy & Environmental Protection confirmed.

Robert Smart, chairperson of the English department, said he and his colleagues are grieving for Engel and his family.

“The loss of a child is a parent’s worst nightmare, something not in the natural order of things,” Smart said. “When something this tragic affects a beloved colleague and friend, it affects all of us.”

Emily Keene, former student of Professor Engel, said, “Professor Engel is truly one of the best professors I’ve ever had, and my prayers are with him and his family as they grieve the loss of Tobias.

Professor Engel is beloved by his students and colleagues, so the news is devastating to us all.”

Another former student of Engel, Jessica Poe, recalled Engel’s fondness of his family that he expressed in the classroom.

“It’s crushing to see someone who is so loved here on campus to suffer something so terrible,” Poe said. “He talked about his son on multiple occasions and his wife often comes to visit and sit in on his courses, so the idea of such a happy family man going through something like this is heartbreaking.

My thoughts and prayers go out to his whole family. There’s a special place for Tobias in Heaven.”

the main focus. It doesn’t make sense, why is there a speaker targeted toward their major rather than mine? I am in CAS where there is a huge variety of majors. My peers and I will hardy understand what he is speaking about.”

Brinker, who founded the organization in honor of her sister, has recently been mentioned in the media for the Komen Foundation’s involvement in a controversy over Planned Parenthood funding.

The Komen Foundation decided to discontinue funding for breast health programs at Planned Parenthood clinics on Jan. 31, the Los Angeles Times reported.

This decision came in response to the Komen Foundation’s policy, which said that organizations under official government investigation cannot receive funding.

After receiving backlash from the media and public, the foundation came forward on Feb. 3, with a statement that addressed concerns over the organization’s commitment to its mission to save women’s lives.

“We will amend the criteria to make clear that disqualifying investigations must be criminal and conclusive in nature and not political.

That is what is right and fair,” the foundation said.

Despite the Komen Foundation’s sudden policy change and return of support to Planned Parenthood, she continues to receive criticism.

Quinnipiac students expressed their opinions about this controversy on Facebook and Twitter.

“So while Quinnipiac insists they are trying to increase their minority population and create a more diverse student body, they select Nancy Brinker to speak at graduation, a woman who blatantly slapped this community across the face,” freshman Lexie Gruber said.

Others are glad to have Brinker as the speaker. Senior Briana Galeazzi tweeted, “QU school of health sciences commencement speaker is Nancy Brinker...so excited.”

puts out every day JOIN US: We meet in Tator Hall 106, Tuesdays at 9:15 p.m.

Fe b r u a r y 8 , 2 0 1 2

The Quinnipiac Chronicle

ROMANTIC COMEDIES crossword

Interactive|7

poll

How are you spending your Valentine’s Day? Chartwells dinner and Valenskate Off campus dinner with significant other Chocolate with roommates Alone Other solution to last week’s crossword

VALENTINE’S DAY word search Chocolate Cupid Date Dinner Flowers

Gifts Hallmark Heart Kiss Love

Movies Pink Red Relationship Romance

sudoku

Valenskate Xoxo

The Quinnipiac Chronicle

8|Opinion

Fe b r u a r y 8 , 2 0 1 2

Opinion

Quchronicle.com/opinion opinion@QUChronicle.com @QUChronicle

Reservation for 1 Valentine’s Day Uncensored

February 14. What should be this article? Follow me as we navia nice holiday celebrating St. Val- gate through one of the worst holidays of the year. entine is marked with conI’ll give you a love foresumerism and disgustingly cast: It’s gloomy with a cute cards, stuffed animals chance of Domino’s. There’s and heart-shaped boxes a 90 percent chance of precontaining chocolates. cipitation. Find a box of tisGrody to the max. (Actusues to wipe away ally, save the chocolates those tears. for me. I get hungry late It’s not healthy to at night. Just ask my sit at home sad and roommate.) depressed. So get out If you feel frustrated Matt Busekroos there.

Go out to dinner about spending ValenPublisher @mattybooz with friends. But let’s tine’s Day alone, then just use laughter. That’s totally fine. be real. You will really order in, so How do you think I made it through do yourself a favor, get some fresh

air and meet the delivery man. Be careful what you eat, though. While chocolates will be free flowing, remember spring break is in one month. As Shakira said, your hips don’t lie.

If you’re feeling extra spontaneous, make a quick trip to Redbox. There’s sure to be a Kate Hudson rom-com you haven’t already watched to death. Spoiler alert: She does indeed get the guy in [insert movie title here]. If you leave the house, don’t wear the ‘I’m Single’ uniform. Swap the hoodie and sweatpants for a clean pair of jeans.

Stay away from social media for the day. We all know you’re alone based on those super depressing status updates and tweets. You can share those sob stories when your name is Taylor Swift and you’re making millions of dollars. So either pick up a guitar or another pint.

In all seriousness, you will probably spend the evening deciding between Ben and Jerry anyway. Pass the Cherry Garcia over to me when you’re finished.

In the end, this is a great day for you if you’re genuinely in love. Say what you mean and mean what you say. Don’t over analyze everything

and just enjoy the day for what it is. And remember: Nothing says “I love you” more than freshly washed sheets.

If you’re single and looking, the person you should be with is probably standing in front of you. It’s so obvious, but you’re too oblivious to see it for yourself. Forget misconceptions and what people might think. You deserve to be with someone who can make you forget you ever had a broken heart. The only thing holding you back is you. Put on a smile. You never know who needs to see one from you.

Happy Valentine’s Day.

Valentine’s Day is just another day

meet The Staff Publisher Matt Busekroos Editor-in-Chief Lenny Neslin Senior Managing Editors John Healy Meghan Parmentier Managing Editor Michele Snow Copy Desk Chief Jamie Hill Copy Editor Cassie Comeau Web Editor Tim O’Donnell Web Developer Marcus Harun Cartoonist Dakota Wiegand Adviser Lila Carney 203-582-8358

Advertising inquiries can be sent to advertise@quchronicle.com. Inquiries must be made a week prior to publication.

Design Chief Samantha Epstein Photography Editor Anna Brundage Associate Photography Editor Katie O’brien News Editor Kim Green Associate News Editors Phil Nobile Katherine Rojas Opinion Editor Jeremy Stull Arts & Life Editor Nicole Fano Associate Arts & Life Editors Catherine Boudreau Christine Burroni Sarah Rosenberg Sports Editor Matt Eisenberg Associate Sports Editor Joe Addonizio Mailing address Quinnipiac University 275 Mount Carmel Ave. Hamden, CT 06518

The Chronicle is distributed around all three university campuses every Wednesday when school is in session except during exam periods. Single copies are free. Newspaper theft is a crime. Those who violate the single copy rule may be subject to civil and criminal prosecution and/or subject to university discipline.

Please report suspicious activity to university security (203-582-6200) and Matt Busekroos at publisher@quchronicle. com. For additional copies, contact the student media office for rates.

Send tips, including news tips, corrections or suggestions to Lenny Neslin at editor@quchronicle.com.

Letters to the Editor should be between 250 and 400 words and must be approved by the Editor-in-Chief before going to print. The Chronicle reserves the right to edit all material, including advertising, based on content, grammar and space requirements. Send letters to editor@ quchronicle.com. The opinions expressed in this paper are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the Chronicle.

Not to sound cynical, but Febru- happy surprise. I am also the girl ary 14 is a Tuesday, and not much who randomly buys loved ones coffee creamer because I know more. I believe in happy couples, you’re low or leaves a post-it chocolates, flowers and note note on your desk wishing you cards, but the concept of good luck on a test or to have Valentine’s Day contina good day. ues to confuse me.

It might just be me, but I fondly remember I am not interested in large my fifth grade class Valpublic displays of affecentine’s Day party. We tion. I’d rather have a each made a valentine quiet night in instead for every other stuof a big to-do out. Last dent in the class, and year I was perfectly conmaybe another friend Anna Brundage Photography Editor tent to watch HBO’s mini or two. We traded choc@annalilybee series Band of Brothers. In olates, stickers, temporary tattoos and heart-shaped erasers. fact, it was my request.

There are 364 other days in a There was no expectation of a romanyear — this year there are 365 othtic evening or dinner and a movie.

It is not that I don’t have expec- ers — to tell and show someone that tations for Valentine’s Day because you love him or her. Flower shops I have never had a boyfriend at this continue to sell roses, but I’m a fan time of year, or because I’m jealous of tulips and daisies, Hallmark and of the girls that do. Now that I’m Papyrus still sell cards with hearts older, I still see the value in telling and love poems, and there is never someone you care, just not on one a shortage of chocolate.

I’m not suggesting Valentine’s day out of the year.

I, like any other girl, will ac- Day be abandoned as a holiday, but cept flowers on any day of the rather that we remember it is not the week. I’ll accept chocolate twice only day a year to express feelings a day, and note cards are always a for one another.

Hate mistakes?

So do we. Join us, and help rid our paper of errors.

Contact editor@quchronicle.com if interested.

Fe b r u a r y 8 , 2 0 1 2

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Opinion|9

Commencement Speaker decision

The ends do not justify the means Stephen A. Schwarzman and who the speakers are, but rather how Nancy G. Brinker have been an- they were chosen.

All throughout last year the comnounced as the commencement mencement committee worked speakers for the class of 2012 with the Student Government graduation. The QU adminAssociation Junior Class istration said it was difficult Cabinet on graduation ideas to find either two comparable and particulars. Class of speakers for each ceremony 2012 President Emily Saror one speaker who would do noff and Vice President Dan both.

Scott continue to work There is absolutely with the committee in nothing wrong with eithe months leading up ther of these speakers. to graduation. Class We have a filthy rich Jeremy Stull Opinion Editor of 2011 President Dan man speaking to the busi@jpstull Dempsey thought the ness school and a former ambassador and U.S. Chief of Pro- same thing of his cabinet’s experitocol speaking at the second gradu- ence last year.

“The committee certainly valued ation. I do not have a problem with

my opinion and whenever I spoke they listened,” Dempsey said.

The committee was very receptive about meeting with the Senior Class Cabinet, hearing our ideas and concerns, and voicing their opposition or support. The problem is that it all now seems like lip service.

The idea of a different commencement is a harsh reality of an ever-growing student body, and everybody involved knew that.

The commencement committee presented the Senior Class Cabinet with two options it deemed viable.

The options included a bare-bones ceremony with no major keynote speaker or four separate ceremonies

with lesser known speakers. After gathering data from a large number of seniors, the overwhelming majority favored the single ceremony with less pomp and circumstance.

We were then told that commencement was going to be split into two ceremonies, with the idea of a speaker seemingly eliminated.

Then, we were told that these two individuals would be speaking to our class.

This is much unlike last year, Dempsey said. “My thoughts on our role in SGA was, we were elected by our peers to be representatives of them to administration. That was precisely what we did,” he said. The class of 2012 was given no such

opportunity in regards to speakers.

When we were given the opportunity with commencement organization, we were essentially ignored.

At no juncture did the Senior Class Cabinet and the senior class at large, give any input like we were led to believe. There was no student input into finding these speakers.

Dempsey said of the class of 2011’s input, “I don’t think the committee would’ve looked anywhere else but our list unless it was a last resort.”

We did not get that.

I think the “powers that be” did a fine job finding individuals, but the way they went about it was not inclusive, representative, nor in the expected manner.

SGA UPdate

SGA to welcome 3 new cabinet members Happy Wednesday Bobcats!

Student Government will hold its much-anticipated special elections today in Buckman 129 at 4:15 p.m. We wanted to say thank you to all the candidates who pulled paperwork and are participating in the

election to fill the vacancies, and we look forward to welcoming three new SGA members.

On a business side, SGA’s “Respect Your Campus” campaign is underway and will be picking up next week. The entire idea is to get

our community to “live the legend” the next few weeks more than we have in the past. Each week a line of the creed will be highlighted and different organizations, events, etc. will play a big part of it. There will also be an entire social media aspect

to the campaign where people will tweet anyone that is “living the legend” that week to the SGA account.

At the end of the campaign, the people who “lived the legend” all month will be highlighted through SGA and possibly be entered into a raffle!

So keep your eyes out for messages, events, and more coming your way the next few weeks and remember to “LIVE THE LEGEND.” – Student Government Association

Dakota Wiegand/Chronicle

The Quinnipiac Chronicle

10|Arts & Life

Fe b r u a r y 8 , 2 0 1 2

Arts & Life

quchronicle.com/arts-and-life artslife@QUChronicle.com @QUChronicle

Transgender ‘Top Model’ Models Acceptance

By CAROLINE TUFTS Staff Writer

A fashion model is usually known for having a pretty face, a fierce stride and an enviable sense of style. “America’s Next Top Model” contestant Isis King has all that. Looking at King now, it is difficult to see her journey behind her glamour.

Born to a single 17-year-old mother, King often faced poverty and homelessness and witnessed numerous abusive relationships. But her greatest hurdle by far was the fact that she was born a female with a male body.

At an event sponsored by the Student Programming Board in Buckman Theater on Friday, King, the first ever transgendered “ANTM” contestant, spoke about the struggles, transitions and triumphs that have shaped the person she is today. More than 30 students attended the event, which was filled with laughter, acceptance and entertainment generated by the comedic guest of honor.

The slender 5-foot-7 model from “ANTM” Cycle 11 sported skintight pants and a wildly patterned shirt as she paced the stage with a confident strut and contagious energy.

King quickly confronted the taboo of being a transgender person in the African-American community.

“I always felt like I was in the wrong body,” King said. “I knew I was different, but I also knew that wasn’t accepted.”

King admitted to having a personal relationship with Jesus, and is a strong advocate for acceptance. The 26-year-old said she believes that minority communities can gain acceptance through more positive media representations and exposure.

While she continues to support the lesbian,

Q&A ISIS with

By Christine burroni Associate Arts & Life Editor

Isis King, the first transgendered contestant on the hit show “America’s Next Top Model,” spoke about her real-life experiences and answered questions from the audience on Saturday night. After her speech, the Chronicle sat down and chatted with her outside of Buckman Theater.

QU Chronicle: What was your favorite part of competing on “America’s Next Top Model?”

Isis King: My favorite part was meeting all the girls and just being in a different environment that I have ever previously been in and different scenarios that I don’t think people ever experience in their life which is pretty cool. I thought it was really awesome, and I got to travel; I went to Greece. My first time on “Top Model,” it was my first time getting on an airplane, first time going to LA, so that whole thing was really cool.

QUC: Is there anything you think you would have done differently on the show?

IK: No, especially the second time around, only because the outcome wasn’t from my lack of anything. I definitely don’t think that if anyone that watched my episode, there wasn’t enough negative footage to go with what was said from them. And I don’t think there was any real explanation for sending me home.

QUC: Which season did you prefer, the “ANTM All Stars” or the normal cycle?

IK: I like “All Stars” better, you know the girls from watching them. And also for me personally, I have evolved a lot more and I was more comfortable with myself, and I think just being more comfortable and confident, it allowed me to really let loose and be free while being filmed.

QUC: What’s your main career focus right now?

IK: I’m focusing more on acting right now.

With modeling I’m doing more hosting and special guests, which sometimes they do want more of the All Stars. As far as castings, I’m actually going to one on Tuesday, but I don’t

gay, bisexual, transgender communities, it is not her only interest. In fact, she will soon depict the hardships of prostitution in the Philippines in the upcoming indie film, “Hello Forever.”

The first part of the evening consisted of King’s reflection on her past experiences, including her economic, personal and relationship struggles. King also referenced the confidence she gained during her two cycles on reality TV as well as in the MSNBC special, “Born in the Wrong Body.”

Junior Jocelyn Dulanie, SPB’s Talks and Topics Chair, knew that she wanted King to come to campus when she heard her speak at a National Association for Campus Activities event.

According to Dulanie, the biggest draw of the evening was the Q&A portion. “[King] is so open, and it’s a great opportunity for the students to interact and get their questions answered,” Dulanie said.

Freshman Danielle Scanlon was also inspired by King’s presentation.

“It was cool that she was so real, and not at all fake like you may expect,” Scanlon said.

Sophomore Jamie Schnicker said she was inspired by King’s experiences. “[King] is very inspiring to not just the LGBT community, but also to anyone who has been in an abusive relationship, or who has experienced poverty or homelessness,” Schnicker said. “She makes me want to be a better person.”

RUNWAY RUNDOWN Favorite designer?

“Donatello Versace, I feel like my designs are bold, colorful, detail-oriented and sexy and I feel like it’s her same design ethic.”

Lesly alvarez/chronicle

America’s Next Top Model contestant Isis King, from Cycle 11, strikes a pose outside Buckman Theater. necessarily do that much unless it’s for acting.

QUC: With your film “Hello Forever” coming out in June, do you feel that opened a door for you into acting?

IK: Definitely, I really pushed myself.

It’s definitely a dark film. I definitely tap into many emotions that I knew I had but I never had around other people. I definitely learned I’m a method actress and I think that people will be really surprised when they see this film and when they see my acting.

QUC: Is there any experience where you said to yourself, “Oh my gosh, this is actually happening?”

IK: Yeah, everything. Just me looking in the mirror and seeing who I am like ‘Wow,’ I think that’s the biggest thing. Like ‘Wow, you were strong enough, you were brave enough.’

QUC: Is there anything about the show that you were surprised about?

IK: I didn’t know that when the cameras were off, like when you’re traveling, or if you’re about to go to sleep you take your microphone off and you can’t talk at all. They call it “ice.” If you’re traveling, and the crew is filming, you can’t talk to each other or anything, and we’re grown women. I would always get in trouble for that because I have a problem keeping my mouth shut.

QUC: So what’s your everyday life like right now?

IK: A little bit of everything. Trying to find castings, networking, going to appearances, visiting family and loved ones, trying to live my life, trying to figure out what direction See topmodel Page 15

Favorite accessory or favorite thing to wear?

“It used to be earrings. I used to wear really dramatic earrings but lately my favorite thing to wear is my designs, I feel the sexiest in them.”

Favorite cosmetic or way to wear your makeup?

“I love the ‘cat eye.’”

When do you feel that you’re most confident?

“When I have my heels on.”

Follow Isis on Twitter @MsIsisKing

The Quinnipiac Chronicle

Fe b r u a r y 8 , 2 0 1 2

Arts & Life|11

Small student, big voice Sophomore placed in top 25 of American Teen Idol at 13

By EBONY WALMSLEY Staff Writer

Despite Ella Jesmajian’s small stature and timid appearance, strong vocal chords fill the Quinnipiac sophomore with a huge talent.

Jesmajian, also known by her stage name Ella Berkeley, grew up listening to a variety of music in New York. By the time she was 11, Jesmajian’s parents realized that their daughter’s voice was special.

“I would sit in my kitchen and sing ‘Let’s Stay Together’ by Al Green in a very soulful and adult voice,” Jesmajian said. “My parents would be like, ‘How can that voice come out of that body?’”

Growing up with musically inclined parents who loved listening to blues and jazz, it is no surprise that Jesmajian shares the same passion. The sultry sounds of Jesmajian’s music make it easy to understand why artists such as Ray Charles and Joss Stone have influenced her.

“Ray Charles is a classic, and I love his music, and Joss Stone is someone who is more modern and I can relate to her musically,” Jesmajian said.

By the time she was 12, Jesmajian began to embrace her talent by practicing with karaoke machines. At 13, she entered into the American Teen Idol competition in New York. She placed in the top 25.

About five years ago, Jesmajian recorded her first demo. This past summer she recorded new music in New York City and is in the process of signing with the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers. Since then, she has been working hard to promote her album through word of mouth and the Internet.

Jesmajian met Lauren Shevit during her sophomore year of high school. Now both Quinnipiac sophomores, Shevit strongly supports her friend’s talent.

“I first knew Ella could sing when she sang the National Anthem at a school event,” Shevit said. “Ella is a great person to be around. She always has something funny to say and never has a negative attitude.”

Although Shevit has yet to hear her friend’s demo, she plans to listen soon.

Jesmajian says her main goal is to familiarize students and the public with her work, and ultimately build a substantial fan base.

“It’s hard to get a record deal when labels go and look at your Facebook page and you only have a handful of people who have liked the page,” Jesmajian said.

One of Jesmajian’s favorite singles is the first song she wrote on her own, “Can’t Take the Light (Shadows Have Fallen).” In the past, Jesmajian received musical assistance from her mother, who also sings and writes music.

According to Jesmajian, her writing is inspired mostly by her mood and the surrounding atmosphere.

“Sometimes I can write a song in 10 minutes, sometimes it takes me three years,” Jesmajian said.

While the idea of being signed to a record label is a dream come true for many aspiring vocalists, Jesmajian remains grounded and focused on her academics. Jesmajian is a member of the Pi Beta Phi sorority and a criminal justice major.

“I definitely want a college degree from somewhere,” she said. “Sometimes I try to imagine what it would be like and what I would do if I got a record deal. Would I leave school?”

Jesmajian foresees law school and possibly an FBI career in her future, yet her passion for her budding music career remains positive.

“In five years I hope to be working with a record label, performing regularly and sharing my music with people all over,” she said.

You can listen to Ella Jesmajian’s music at www.purevolume.com/ellaberkeley

Lesly alvarez/chronicle

Ella Jesmajian, a sister of Pi Beta Phi and a sophomore at Quinnipiac, writes and records songs.

check out photo galleries on quchronicle.com

katie o’brien/chronicle

TJ Piccirillo warms up with an acoustic set before his band, Logan’s Run, headlines their show at The Space in Hamden.

Lesly alvarez/chronicle

Quinnipiac’s fraternities hosted an open house, giving potential new Greeks a chance to see what each organization offers.

The Quinnipiac Chronicle

12|Arts & Life

Fe b r u a r y 8 , 2 0 1 2

THIS IS ME

THE PRIDE INSIDE

He stood up and revealed what had haunted him his whole life

Madeline Hardy/Chronicle

Michael Castro’s courage inspired other men in his fraternity to come out.

NAME: Michael Castro HOMETOWN: Putnam County, N.Y. YEAR: Senior MAJOR: Health science studies

By Phil nobile

Associate News Editor

Imagine being in a room with almost 100 other students. You’re sweating profusely.

You’re shaking convulsively. You’re breathing heavily. You’re about to stand up and admit something that has haunted you your entire life, something that may instantly cast you out.

The day had finally come. Michael Castro, a Quinnipiac senior, walked into his weekly Sigma Phi Epsilon chapter meeting with deepseated confidence. But on the inside, Castro was anything but calm. Through sweat and bated breath, Castro stood up in front of his 90 brothers and revealed the secret he had buried deep down for years: “I have something to say. I don’t want any of you to think of me any differently. I’m still the same person. I cherish all of your friendships, and I don’t wanna lose anyone through saying this, but I’m gay.”

If you look at Castro, a friendly face and a welcoming smile await you. Beneath his fraternity letters, dark, faded jeans and an average build, Castro blends right in with the Quinnipiac crowd. His childhood yielded similar results.

“I’m not your stereotypical gay kid,” Castro said. “Everyone just pictured me as a normal guy. I played hockey, I ran track, I was very into sports. I hung out with a bunch of

guy friends and I had girlfriends, so everyone looked at me as a normal kid. But I didn’t feel normal at all.”

Up until his junior year at Quinnipiac, Castro covered up his sexuality and often battled against it. Through dating girls and joining his friends in unintentionally hurtful name calling, feeling trapped and abnormal was a common emotion.

“I wasn’t expressing who I actually was,” Castro said. “It made me feel upset my friends didn’t know who I was. I would think if I did die, no one would know who I was during my life, they would just know the front I put on.”

It wasn’t until last year that Castro felt he was ready to tell the truth. Beginning by coming out to a close friend, Castro felt almost instant relief. After much deliberation with the few friends he trusted, Castro decided he was ready to tell his fraternity brothers.

“I had told a few people throughout the beginning of the semester, but Sigma Phi Epsilon has been a family to me since I joined,” Castro said. “I told my immediate family at home, and I didn’t want my family at school to not hear it from me.”

After Castro confided to the filled room of SigEp brothers about his true sexual nature, the room erupted with claps of assurance.

“The entire room stood up in applause,” Castro said. “It was an amazing feeling, to have all of those people stand up and support me for who I was.”

In response to Castro’s act of courage, something unexpected happened: two more members came forth and admitted their true sexuality.

“I didn’t expect them to do that,” he said.

“I didn’t expect them to stand up and do the same thing, but they all were welcomed as well. It was the most memorable moment in my life.

“I loved these guys before I told them,” Castro said. “These people are family, whether they’re blood-related or not. They are going to be there for the rest of my life and I will be there for them.”

Through sweat and bated breath, Castro stood up in front of his 90 brothers and revealed the secret he had buried deep down for years.

Coming out to his mother proved to be harder. Raised Catholic throughout his life, his family had a differing set of morals. Castro said he remembered having a gay neighbor, and although his parents were fine with it, they viewed it as unnatural and abnormal.

After a dinner out with his mother in Hamden during the beginning of his junior year, Castro broke the news. She was not as receptive.

“She instantly stopped the car and started crying. She told me she had now lost her best friend. That was really hard for me,” Castro said. “We didn’t speak for a month after that.”

“Half of gay males experience a negative parental reaction when they come out and in 26 percent of those cases the youth was thrown out of the home,” according to the Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays Organization.

Castro initially expected his mother to be the most accepting, but his father, a devout Catholic, proved to be more understanding from the start.

According to the Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law, more than 9 million

Americans identified themselves as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender in 2011.

Homosexual people, although more openly prevalent now than ever before in America, have had a rough path in the past century. Castro cites a generation gap as the reason behind the disconnect. “[My parents’] generation grew up during a time when being gay was a disease,” Castro said. “It wasn’t a lifestyle, it wasn’t something that you’re just born into. They would have strange and barbaric treatments back then. My mother didn’t want me to live that hard of a lifestyle.”

Today, Castro’s parents are more supportive than ever, and his mother is open to anyone in his life.

“The current person I’m dating has been to my house and met my parents. My mom loves him, and everything is better right now,” Castro said. “It just was a very rocky start.”

It would be the support of his family and friends that would propel Castro to be an active and productive member at Quinnipiac.

Among other accomplishments, Castro became the sweetheart of Phi Sigma Sigma: an honor given to few before him.

“He lives our values in his everyday life,” said Margaret Dooley, a Phi Sigma Sigma senior. “He is the type of person that always has your back and you can always count on no matter what.”

As for his future, graduate school for a degree in public health is on the horizon. But Castro will no longer hide his true self.

“For anyone that is struggling with it, it does get better,” Castro said. “My friend would quote Dr. Seuss and tell me, ‘be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.’ There’s no point in hiding who you are.”

The Quinnipiac Chronicle

Fe b r u a r y 8 , 2 0 1 2

Arts & Life|13

CAMPUS COUTURE

VALENTINE EDITION

sarah’s style

A classy

Neil Mammele Madison, Conn.

Marketing Senior

Julia Meli

Wall, N.J. Political science Senior Ralph Lauren Polo button down shirt, Levi’s jeans, shoes from Clark’s

Leather jacket from Italy, shirt from Express, Hue jeggings, Steve Madden boots

“Comfortable and causal. We both have busy schedules so it's easy to stay in something comfortable all day. We don't have any plans for Valentine's day yet, we're just going to lay low and enjoy each other's company.”

KALI PULKKINEN/chronicle

Rave

Wreck

Nicki Minaj might be the ‘Stupid Hoe’

Keen on Peachy Keen

Katie o’brien/chronicle

I used to think I was clever and innovative when I stuck a Yoplait yogurt in the freezer to make my own frozen yogurt, but then the Pinkberry’s, the Red Mango’s and the Peachy Keen’s of the world snuck up on me. Hamden got smart when it decided to hone in on the fro-yo craze and invite us into the world of dulce de leche and apple pie-flavored frozen heaven.

Peachy Keen is the student body’s new go-to for study and class breaks, perhaps giving Kelly’s Kone Konnection and Wentworth’s a run for their money. Likewise, its prime location next to Tonino’s is also a shoe-in for attracting Quinnipiac students. Their rotating flavors and choice of toppings gives customers a food experience that is never dull.

Plus, the self-serve option allows the creation of a dessert with no limits (don’t be shy to scoop up chocolate sauce and raspberries at the same time).

Essentially, the feeling one gets while eating Peachy Keen is akin to having snow on Christmas, class canceled on a Friday or your computer freezing on a picture of Ryan Gosling shirtless ... except, this time, there are sprinkles and Heath Bar crunch involved. – S. Rosenberg

2012 cash money records inc.

Nicki Minaj is more colorful than ever in her newest music video, “Stupid Hoe.” Minaj has always been known for her bootylicious rear end and her out-of-this-world outfits, but going as far as freezing in a provocative doll-like stance is just too much. In fact, too much for TV station BET, who recently banned Minaj’s video from airing on the station, according to an E! News report.

Minaj tries to channel her inner Barbie doll in this video, showing off brightly colored hair and makeup, oddly bent legs and a nude side profile. However, she failed miserably. The video itself could make an epileptic go into shock, and those who don’t experience seizures will most certainly finish the video with a headache. The flash of colors and movements make this rap queen look ridiculous.

Not only is the video unbearable to watch, but the lyrics are impossible to understand. Minaj raps, “You can suck my diz-nik, if you take this jizz-ez / You don’t like them disses, give my a** some kisses.” Now you tell me what that means.

Minaj needs to reel in her creative side just a bit and deal with the hoe that inspired this song. – L. Ingram

(for the most part)

Super Bowl

By SARAH ROSENBERG Associate Arts & Life Editor

After a close and intense win this past Superbowl Sunday, Giants players kissed and praised the Vince Lombardi trophy (while some enthusiastic onlookers took MySpace-esque photos with it). Ahmad Bradshaw had the most interesting winning touchdown with a squat-and-roll into the end-zone. Eli Manning demonstrated just how seriously he takes being a quarterback.

Oh, and Madonna tried to prove to us all that she can shuffle at the age of 53, and will most likely have more toned abs in her 80s than you or I ever will from here on out.

I’d say she succeeded, and although I can’t bear her inconsistent comments about Lady Gaga, her conceited behavior, or her habit of setting ridiculous trends a la red string bracelets, I’ll admit that she somehow pulled off a show that made sense of a high school football/choir/mythology/disco theme. Cee Lo Green singing a soulful duet of “Like a Prayer” may have confused people, but vocally he made Madonna’s classic song all the more popular and canonical. Her dance-off with LMFAO was impressive, but reminded me that Madonna is my mother’s age, and under no circumstances do I want to see my mother “shuffling.” Especially since I don’t even think I know how to shuffle.

However, besides Madonna’s melting pot of a performance, many people may have noticed a televised glitch during M.I.A’s verse in Madonna’s new single, “Give Me All Your Luvin.’” That was a casual flash of her middle finger during an equally expletive lyric. Of course, if I were in such an atmosphere, wearing a gladiator outfit and rapping next to a pop icon, I’d probably want to give America the finger, too – because I’d know everyone was probably just a little jealous of how high my awesome factor was at the moment. Besides, I honestly believe M.I.A is one of the most underrated rappers, let alone female rapper, on the music scene. Her 2007 album “Kala” is completely eccentric and original, and I appreciate any air time she receives.

Of course, Nicki Minaj also came out to play with her signature snarl and semi-maniacal head bobbing alongside M.I.A, and she seems to always be a crowd-pleaser.

Essentially, as some one who understands football according to the most obvious plays and just how loud the people around me are cheering, the Superbowl has to be a little more enticing than just athletes doing a dance every time they score. Thus, besides the action of the game itself, Madonna’s show encapsulated every sense of the word, and redeemed last year’s performance from the Black Eyed Peas. Watching celebrity appearances by Avicii and Betty White in the infamous commercials kept me on my toes.

But, most importantly, country-singing couple Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton’s pre-kickoff duet of “America the Beautiful” made me smile harder than Eli Manning giving his MVP speech. Just kidding.

Bobcat TWEET OF THE WEEK

@suzannefalconer Suzanne Falconer

just had to exfoliate toads off of my body. #quinnipiacproblems #bestnightyet!

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14|Arts & Life

Fe b r u a r y 8 , 2 0 1 2

Dating at Quinnipiac

The ratio effect

By Catherine boudreau Associate Arts & Life Editor

Unlike the penguin, which mates for life, chances are the average Quinnipiac Bobcat will not settle down during its four years of college – especially if it is a female.

Quinnipiac currently enrolls 2,253 undergraduate men and 3,735 undergraduate women, according to the Office of Admissions. Therefore, the ratio is approximately 19/31. In a typical year, there are nearly double the amount of female applicants compared to males. Last year’s numbers clocked in at 11,819 female applicants and 6,821 male applicants.

With numbers like that, guys have it pretty good, and they’ll be the first to admit it.

“I mean, of course it’s a lot easier for guys to find girls to either date or hook up with because we are in the minority,” freshman Mike Rocchio said.

The guy-to-girl ratio affects the dating atmosphere on campus in many ways, from the random hookup mentality to the hopes of forming a serious relationship.

“The thing about relationships is that the best ones happen when there is relative equality,” said Michele Hoffnung, professor of psychology.

“One form of this is when there are equal numbers of partners and you have an equal amount of choice.”

According to Hoffnung, the gender imbalance on campus contributes to multiple aspects of Quinnipiac’s dating culture, one being the notion of, “the more you score, the better,” which is prevalent in our culture among young men in general. This could lead to more superficial relationships, she said.

Sophomore Tori Rice said that from what she’s seen on campus, many guys and girls just hook up, and it rarely becomes something permanent.

“I feel like because of the ratio, many guys have the mentality of if they go out, they are definitely going home with a girl. And the sad thing is, they aren’t entirely incorrect,” Rice said. “Guys have the indecision.”

Meaningless hookups may resonate with many Quinnipiac students, as nights out in New Haven notoriously end with a story or two.

However, students’ tendencies to go out to New Haven every weekend may also mean something else.

Senior Sonia George stated that many girls don’t go out because they want to hook up, but to even out the ratio and potentially meet guys from other schools.

“A lot of my friends have boyfriends that don’t go here. They met them out,” George said.

Hoffnung stated that fortunately, Quinnipiac’s campus is not a closed community. Therefore, there are many opportunities to meet people outside of college, such as at an internship.

While the gender imbalance seems to contribute to frequent hookups, it may also affect the standards that women set for themselves.

“Women will hang out with men they know they wouldn’t have in other situations. They may take a step down, so to speak,” Hoffnung said. “But that’s because they’re young, there’s nothing permanent about it, and that’s reasonable.”

Hoffnung added that there may be benefits to this, as well. In these cases,

women may discover other qualities that are important to them besides those they originally had in mind.

Men, however, don’t need to be as concerned with standards.

“I think it’s tough for guys to actually date girls because there are so many options. It’s hard to tie yourself down to just one when there are a lot of single girls,” sophomore Tanner Tamsin said.

Tamsin also said that girls hook up to potentially form a committed relationship.

“If you are hooking up for a while, girls usually want to date,” Tamsin said.

Rocchio stated that if girls do find a guy they really like, they hold onto them because it’s harder to find someone else.

According to Hoffnung, however, holding onto someone isn’t related to gender. If the ratio were in a woman’s favor, these roles would be reversed.

“If the imbalance were in the other direction, men would try to hold on to women they like because there were fewer choices,” Hoffnung said.

Hoffnung advises that dating in

college shouldn’t be a major concern.

Ultimately, most people don’t marry their college boyfriends or girlfriends, Hoffnung said. She has also done research showing that women in all-women colleges marry at the same rate as those in co-ed colleges.

According to the Pew Research Center, the average age for marriage among men is 28, and 26 among women. The research shows that most people marry someone they meet in graduate school or in the work place, for example.

“You are more likely to marry people you meet when you are about ready to get married,” Hoffnung said.

While Quinnipiac’s dating scene may be difficult for some to master, committed relationships can exist on campus.

Junior Evan Soderhom met his girlfriend walking the halls of Commons freshman year, he said.

“We have been dating for more than a year and a half and I don’t have the idea of being tied down,” Soderhom said. “Sure there are a lot of other girls at Quinnipiac, but I’ve found the one I want and all it takes is one.”

EVERYBODY ELSE’S RATIOS UConn 49% Women 51% Men

Yale 52% Women 48% Men U of New Haven 56% Women 44% Men Fairfield U 59% Women 41% Men Quinnipiac 62% Women 38% Men Sacred Heart 65% Women 35% Men all statistics according to College Board

BREAKDOWN OF QU’S RATIO ENROLLED UNDERGRADUATES: 2,253 MEN 3,735 WOMEN LAST YEAR’S APPLICANTS: 6,821 MEN 11,819 WOMEN

19

31 The uneven girl to guy ratio makes itself evident at Quinnipiac, even in the cafeteria.

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Lesly alvarez/chronicle

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Arts & Life|15

Katie o’brien/chronicle

Eyal Danieli’s black drawings at the Albert Schweitzer Institute.

QU inspires involvement through art

By MARCUS HARUN & KATIE O’BRIEN

The Albert Schweitzer Institute will host an art exhibit through March 30 featuring drawings from artist Eyal Danieli as part of the “Campus Cross Talk, You Say You Want a Revolution” events spreading Middle Eastern political awareness.

The exhibit features 16 images that depict war, conflict and extreme violence that make political and social statements. The art is intended for personal interpretation from the viewer to suggest that disagreement and conflict is a part of everyone’s lives and viewers are encouraged to interpret the meaning of the art.

Danieli’s black drawings on cream-colored

paper have no captions and give observers the opportunity to interpret the meaning.

"The common theme may be described as images that in their equivocalness serve as metaphors for aggression and victimhood and convey the blurring of these definitions, simultaneously combining notions of terrorizing while being terrorized," Danieli said.

His exhibit is currently being displayed at Quinnipiac University’s Albert Schweitzer Institute. Danieli said Schweitzer was not a direct influence to this work, but he relates his art with humanism.

Schweitzer, who passed away in 1965, was a renaissance man; he was a theologian, an organist, a philosopher, a physician and most

notably, a humanitarian. He lived by his “reverence for life” philosophy.

“We should have a sense of awe for anything that has life,” said David Ives, Executive Director of the Albert Schweitzer Institute, about Schweitzer’s philosophy.

Schweitzer believed that one should be mindful before destroying plants, animals or humans. He thought that if everyone had this philosophy, society would be more respectful of cultures, people and races, Ives said.

The Institute hopes this exhibit may inspire Quinnipiac students to take on Schweitzer’s philosophy and join in its peacekeeping efforts worldwide. Ives plans to help students get involved with organizations within the

United Nations, and also sponsor alternative spring break trips to Nicaragua. He also wants to bring Nobel Peace Prize winners to speak to the Quinnipiac community to continue to share Schweitzer’s message. “[Schweitzer] wanted us to feel – you know the feeling you get when you’re on top of a mountain and you look out and you see the view and you look down and you think deep down in your heart that is the most beautiful thing you’ve ever saw? — that is how he wants us to feel about each other, no matter what race or what ethnic background you have or what religion you have,” Ives said. “If you looked at each other like that it would be very hard to kill each other, in theory.”

Q&A with America’s Next Top Model contestant Isis King topmodel from Page 10 everything is going in, having fun, hanging out with friends.

QUC: Do you ever find yourself not feeling as confident in a social setting remembering that, yes, you’re this whole new person, but that you have been different at one point?

IK: Sometimes I go in my shell or my bubble when I just need alone time, so sometimes when you’re out, people see celebrity, and I’m not one of those people that thrives off of that attention, I’m just a regular person, so sometimes I just want to be like in my bubble. I think that’s really the only time. And it’s not necessarily a lack of confidence, it’s more that I need my own space.

QUC: Do you have any advice for teens or young people going through the gender transition process or thinking about it?

IK: Just people that feel like they’re different in general, because I feel like so many people can relate whether you’re gay, lesbian, transgender, whether you have a disability, or you’ve been bullied, anything, just hang in there, know what you want to do, know who you want to be, know where you want to go in

life, but stick it out. It’s going to be a tough ride, but if you stick it out, it’s going to be amazing on the other side.

QUC: How do you feel about the title of “LGBT?” Do you feel that it is a stigma?

IK: Honestly, I feel like the “T” doesn’t have anything to do with your sexuality at all. If anything, there’s segregation, I understand it, but it doesn’t belong together because it doesn’t have anything to do with who you’re attracted to, but for the sake of helping people it’s OK for me. My mission isn’t to segregate or to help certain people. I want to help everybody and whoever is willing to listen to my story or use my story to help theirs because it doesn’t have to be exactly the same, but it’s just being different, and most people I would say have felt different at one point or another. It’s just taking that difference and allowing that to not hold you back and get you to where you want to go.

QUC: How old were you when you realized that fully?

IK: I think when I made the decision to go on “Top Model” and

decided to share my story. Just the whole world knowing my story, I think that when I said, “OK, I’ll do it.” That changed my life. Not going on “Top Model” specifically, but following my dreams publicly.

QUC: Who would you say is your inspiration?

IK: My mom. I would always say my mom. I see her as a strong individual and she was the one who drove me to be a better person and to want to conquer as many things as I can, and she had me young and she gave up many things for me. Wanting to help her has definitely been a drive for me. I’ve helped her, but nowhere near what she would have done for me. The more I accomplish, the more she will reap the benefits.

QUC: You said in your presentation that you went to school for fashion design and you’re currently designing. What’s your status with that now?

IK: At appearances I wear my designs and maybe auction them off after I wear them, just to start off, and I hope to eventually put a line out there.

Isis King speaks to students in Buckman Theater.

Lesly alvarez/chronicle

16|Sports

The Quinnipiac Chronicle

Fe b r u a r y 8 , 2 0 1 2

Every day I’m tumblin’

Acrobatics & tumbling opens second season in NCATA

By Bryan Lipiner Staff Writer

Acrobatics & tumbling at Quinnipiac has always been under the radar, having its first meet in the prime of ice hockey and basketball season. This year the team entered the season as one of eight teams in the National Collegiate Acrobatics and Tumbling Association, and has been a critical part of furthering the development of the sport.

“We had originally started with the name ‘competitive cheer,’ then we decided to begin working with USA Gymnastics, and all of our players are members,” head coach Mary Ann Powers said. “We later decided that the skill sets you see are aerial acrobatics, gymnastics and floor tumbling.”

The name of the sport changed in August of 2010 from competitive cheer to stunts and tumbling. The name later became acrobatics & tumbling before the start of the 2011 season.

Last year, Quinnipiac finished the regular season in sixth place. The 2011 season,

“You’re looked at as an athlete, not a gymnast, not a cheerleader.”

— Erin Trotman Quinnipiac acrobatics & tumbling graduate student

which was the team’s inaugural season in the National Collegiate Acrobatics and Tumbling Association, was highlighted with a narrow 274.113–273.882 upset victory over No. 3 Azusa Pacific University in the playoffs that was decided in the team routine.

Though Quinnipiac’s playoff run ended with an 8.9-point loss to Maryland in the semifinals, Powers aims for improvement this season as her athletes are still mastering the sport at the collegiate level.

“This sport is a sport that is based on trust with my players. The first thing we have to work on is progression. All athletes that reach the collegiate level, they’ve never done flip-

ping, twisting,” Powers said in an interview on NESN Friday. “The training first is based on safety and progression, and then we try to build their strength during the season.”

Quinnipiac’s 2012 season began against Maryland, just as last season, and once again fell to the Terrapins 284.540–274.855.

The Bobcats’ 2012 roster is loaded with underclassmen, featuring a total of 15 freshmen, 11 sophomores, three juniors, one senior and one graduate student.

The Bobcats look for a better season anchored by flyers Christina Lasto and Trisha Pierce, both of whom played significant roles Saturday against Maryland.

“What I try to tell my players is [Saturday] we’re starting with our C+ game, I don’t expect our A game to be there until the end of the season,” Powers said. “I’m looking for a peak to come as their skills develop.”

Quinnipiac has six regular season contests this year, including two home meets. After Saturday’s season opener vs. Maryland, the team has nearly two weeks off before traveling to Oregon for a meet against Azusa Pacific Feb. 17. In March, Quinnipiac has a difficult threemeet stretch within just eight days, traveling to Maryland, Fairmont State and finishing at Azusa Pacific March 17. The Bobcats end the season on April 2 at home vs. Azusa Pacific before the playoffs begin at Baylor University later that month.

Although this is just the second season for the program at Quinnipiac, 642 fans filled the TD Bank Sports Center Saturday afternoon and gave reasons for home support during the other home meet of the season in early April.

“Having that number on your back is a big thing. I get to have all different stats to my name, and you’re looked at as an athlete, not a gymnast, not a cheerleader,” graduate student Erin Trotman said. “To be out there with all my sisters is a tremendous honor.”

Trotman, Lasto and Pierce are all expected to anchor the 2012 Quinnipiac squad, as they hope to build on their 2011 campaign and bring home the team’s first championship in program history.

Matt Eisenberg/Chronicle

Above: Quinnipiac’s Jayme Strype holds teammate Christina Lasto in one of the team’s pyramid heats in Saturday’s meet vs. Maryland. Below: Quinnipiac’s Erin Trotman does a flip in Saturday’s meet vs. Maryland.

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Fe b r u a r y 8 , 2 0 1 2

Sports|17

building success

Seeley on senior class: ‘It’s not a question that they’ve set the standard.’

By ben dias Staff Writer

Leaders. This is one word to describe the women’s ice hockey captains. Over the course of their years at Quinnipiac, the senior captains have endured a long, promising career that has seen the hockey program achieve new heights with a few ups and downs.

The senior class has made numerous leaps and bounds over the last four seasons. The senior captain trio of Jordan Elkins, Kate Wheeler and Bethany Dymarczyk has been at the forefront of a program that in the 2008-09 season finished with just three wins and has rapidly progressed in such a quick time span since then.

“I know when we first got here our freshmen year, it wasn’t a winning team,” Elkins said. “We met as a team and we knew things were going to change since there was a new coaching staff.”

After the three-win season, the coaching staff met with the freshman class and talked to the players about what they were getting into.

“I don’t think we knew how quickly they were going to change but after that team meeting the coaches met with us, the freshmen exclusively, and they told us just to bear with them,” Elkins said. “That it might not be the easiest time to start even for the first few years, but that it would definitely pay off.”

After struggling their first season, the captains saw a huge turnaround with the team. The hard work started paying off dividends the following season after the team had year one under the belt with a new coaching staff.

“We have gone through a lot. None of the other girls know what that was about, but us being there and leading them and tell them what that season was like, we have grown a lot from those four years.”

— Bethany Dymarczyk women’s ice hockey assistant captain

“Freshman year started out pretty rough,” Wheeler said. “We knew we had to do a lot to get to where we are today and we didn’t know

if it would be [our] second, third, or fourth [season], or until after we left that it would come this far, the program, but we did what had to do so far.”

In the 2009-10 campaign, the Bobcats finished with a program record 19 wins, including 11 against Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference opponents. During the season, the Bobcats received their first national ranking in program history as they were ranked 10th in the USCHO.com Division I Women’s Ice Hockey Poll. During this 19-win campaign, head coach Rick Seeley was named ECAC Hockey Coach of the Year in his second season with the team after leading the team in one of the largest turnarounds in the history of women’s college ice hockey.

Although Seeley was in charge of the 16-win turnaround, the roster that season only had six upperclassmen. Everyone else was a freshman or sophomore.

“They set a phenomenal example for the work necessary if you really want to develop a program well,” Seeley said. “Their work ethic on the ice, in the weight room, everything else has just been as much as you could hope for from any athlete for a coach. It’s not a question that they’ve set the standard; they’ve raised the bar.”

The hard work paid off each year for the captains as the team progressed not only on the ice but as role models to the younger players.

“As upperclassmen we have to show the others what to do,” Elkins said. “It’s all about hard work. When you come to our team; it’s on the seniors to show players how to work.”

Things might have seemed difficult back then for these three captains but they knew they had faith in the coaching staff to turn things around.

“I think just the success we had, not just in terms of winning and losing, but in terms of the culture we have now behind the scenes,” Elkins said. “I think it is a real testament to the character of the senior class and also the coaches.”

Seeley, the team’s fourth-year head coach, has guided the program from three wins in 2008, to a programrecord 22 wins last season. Seeley said he believes it all starts with the seniors when it comes to developing a program from top to bottom.

photo courtesy of quinnipiac athletics

From left: Seniors Kate Wheeler, Jordan Elkins and Bethany Dymarczyk have been with the team since it won three games in the 2008-09 season and have led the program to where it is now.

“A major part of all of them, especially the captains, is how they have developed their game from the beginning,” Seeley said. “When we got here, they were the class we recruited, and generally, they were studentathletes that not many people thought could succeed at this level.”

Last season the Bobcats won more than 20 games for the first time in program history and reached the ECAC Hockey semifinals.

“Last year was a great year, and we probably could have done more, but each year we have been growing more and more,” Dymarczyk said.

Even though the team was ranked No. 9 in the country to start the season and now sits sixth in the conference, the captains are happy that they have solidified themselves as an ECAC contender in only a few years.

“Even though we haven’t won

a big tournament, we have accomplished a lot of firsts for the program,” Elkins said.

For players that few wanted, their commitment and desire has made them all become solid hockey players and leaders at this level, Seeley said.

“From their freshman year, they’ve been the hardest workers, they’ve done the best in the classroom. Every way they have represent their program has been a great example,” Seeley said. “When you’re talking about developing a program and taking it from where we were, it’s essential to have student-athletes that are seniors.”

After going through many ups and downs, the program is on the verge of becoming perennial ECAC Hockey contenders, and the captains hope they will be remembered as the

class that started the transformation into a championship-caliber team.

“We have gone through a lot,” Dymarczyk said. “None of the other girls know what that was about, but us being there and leading them and tell them what that season was like, we have grown a lot from those four years.”

For that to happen, it’s up to the younger players to continue the culture set by the captains, Seeley said.

Elkins hopes her class’ lasting legacy will be left as an imprint on the program for years to come.

“I hope were seen as that class that got things going because I know that this program is going to go above and beyond anything that we have done,” Elkins said. “I hope we are remembered as the class that kind of kick started it and the catalyst of it all.”

Men’s basketball has toughest remaining NEC schedule Moore from Page 20 Saint Francis (Pa.) and Robert Morris.

Fresh off the 4-1 run, things are finally starting to solidify within the squad, Moore said.

“The biggest thing we’re doing differently the end of January into February is that we’re guarding as a team much better,” Moore said.

“We have much more purpose, we’re much more accountable, we’re much more alert off the ball, and our rotations are sharper.”

Along with the consistent scoring output of guard James Johnson and forward Ike Azotam, who average 16.8 and 16.2 points per game respectively, Quinnipiac is beginning to get more production elsewhere. Guard Dave

Johnson has scored at least nine points in five of his last eight games, and fellow guard Zaid Hearst has transitioned nicely into the offense in his first season of play for Quinnipiac with clutch shooting. Forward Ousmane Drame tallied seven points per game over his past five, and he leads the team with 57 rebounds in the stretch.

“Ous has played himself into a situation where we have to rely on him, and that’s a tribute to him,” Moore said of the 6-foot-9 forward. “He’s become a defensive presence inside, obviously a rebounding presence on both sides, and can even score.”

Drame stepped into his role after forward Jamee Jackson went down with multiple injuries, including an aggravated Achilles of late.

Moore said that he anticipates Jackson to play as much as the injuries will let him, and that he will try to work in more minutes as the schedule progresses. Jackson saw 18 minutes of action against Monmouth last Saturday, contributing eight points and eight boards.

This week, the team takes on a CCSU squad that sports a 7-5 conference record. Forward Ken Horton and guards Robby Ptacek and Kyle Vinales rank in the top five in points per game in the NEC, each averaging more than 17 points a contest.

“They’re a very good team in the sense that three of their guys do 80-90 percent of their scoring, so you can focus much of your effort on them,” Moore said.

Moore also understands that it will come

down to how Quinnipiac finds ways to get all of its contributors involved.

“We’re looking for someone on the perimeter to shoot it and score it and handle it a little more consistently so there’s not so much pressure on Dave and James in the backcourt,” he said.

Moore also said he believes guys like guard Garvey Young and forward Nate Gause could be keys, alongside the rest of the bench.

Young had 13 points against Fairleigh Dickinson last Thursday, and could prove to be a valuable asset should he be able to be a factor from here on out.

“We’re healthy, the freshmen have gotten through the doldrums, and we’re excited about February and what it has to offer,” Moore said.

The Quinnipiac Chronicle

18|Sports

The Rundown

MEN’S ICE HOCKEY QU 2, Dartmouth 1 – Saturday Dan Clarke: 32 saves Zach Davies: 2 assists MEN’S BASKETBALL QU 71, Monmouth 48 – Saturday James Johnson: 18 points Jamee Jackson: 8 points, 8 rebounds WOMEN’S Basketball Fairleigh Dickinson 74, QU 65 – Monday Felicia Barron:17 points, 6 steals Jasmine Martin: 15 points

games to watch MEN’S BASKETBALL QU (13-10, 6-6) at CCSU (10-12, 7-5) – Sunday, noon WOMEN’S ICE HOCKEY QU (15-12-2, 10-6-2) vs. St. Lawrence (14-6-1, 11-4-1) – Friday, 7 p.m.

QU (15-12-2, 10-6-2) vs. Clarkson (18-7-5, 12-4-2) – Saturday, 4 p.m.

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL QU (17-6, 9-3) at CCSU (11-12, 5-7) – Saturday, 1 p.m.

MEN’S ICE HOCKEY QU (14-9-5, 6-6-4) at St. Lawrence (10-15-3, 6-9-1) – Friday, 7 p.m.

QU (14-9-5, 6-6-4) at Clarkson (13-12-5, 7-6-3) – Saturday, 7 p.m.

Quinnipiac Bobcats Sports Network is your source for live broadcasts.

Students left standing Arena sells part of student section

By anna brundage Photography Editor

Students who attended last Friday night’s televised men’s ice hockey game against Harvard were asked to leave the student section, not because of poor sportsmanship, but because the seats had been sold.

The game, televised on NESN, had the highest attendance of this season, with 3,796 spectators.

“We had a TV game and high demand from general public,” said Eric Grgurich, executive director of the TD Bank Sports Center.

Sections 108, 109, 110 and 111, usually reserved for Quinnipiac students, were reduced to 109, 110, and 111 because of a lack of student interest, Grgurich said.

“We like to have our students there because those are our friends, the ones that we spend a lot of time with, and their support means a lot to us,” senior team captain Scott Zurevinski said, “but at the same time the community has been really good to us, and we enjoy seeing them out there as well.”

Emails and social media, such as

“Knowing it’s going on TV and a sold-out crowd gets us fired up.”

— Mike Glaicar Quinnipiac men’s ice hockey assistant captain

Follow @QUChronSports for live updates during games.

Fe b r u a r y 8 , 2 0 1 2

Twitter and Facebook, were used to express the importance of reserving student tickets, Grgurich said. Still, many students aren’t aware of the new policy.

Matt Eisenberg/Chronicle

Quinnipiac’s student section is normally sections 108, 109, 110 and 111, but for Friday night’s men’s ice hockey game vs. Harvard on NESN, it was reduced to sections 109, 110 and 111.

“I was not aware that you have to reserve a ticket, usually because I delete the emails from athletics because they send so many,” junior Kira Riley said. “I feel like students shouldn’t have to reserve tickets because there is a whole section reserved for us already.”

Students received emails requesting that they reserve seats for the Harvard game. The low rate of reserved tickets allowed the box office to take those tickets, previously reserved for students, and sell them to the general public.

A link and tutorial video are available to students on WebAdvisor that lead to a login page requesting a Quinnipiac email and password.

Once logged in, students are presented with a list of upcoming games and

are prompted to reserve tickets for whichever game they plan to attend.

“It gives us a great idea of how many students are planning to come to the game,” said David Caprio, group ticket sales and promotions manager. “Bigger games, when we get a lot of requests from different groups and we have to see how many seats are available certainly plays a factor but we always make sure leave a generous amount for the students.”

Student fans were still able to swipe their Q-cards to enter High Point Solutions Arena on Friday but many were given standing room only.

The student area will continue to include all four sections; however, based on student feedback, some of those seats may be shared with

the general public, Grgurich said.

When projected student attendance is down, the box office’s goal is to fill in as much as possible.

Games that usually generate a large interest from the general public and students, such as the Yale rivalry game and televised games, will lead to a need for ticket reservations.

“Knowing it’s going on TV and a sold-out crowd gets us fired up,” assistant captain Mike Glaicar said. “It does make a difference to us.”

Large games aside, it is still important that students begin using the new reservation program and continue attending games.

“Their support means a lot to us,” Zurevinski said. “Our team is really good this year, and the more they come out, the more they’ll see that.”

Fe b r u a r y 8 , 2 0 1 2

The Quinnipiac Chronicle

Sports|19

All in for Armstrong

matt eisenberg/Chronicle

Clockwise from top left: Junior defenseman Zack Currie and Dartmouth’s Mike Keenan fall to the ice in the third period of Saturday’s game; sophomore forward Connor Jones jumps over Dartmouth’s Connor Goggin in the first period of Saturday’s game; Eric Hartzell skates on the ice with a “JA” patch on his jersey in memory of former Quinnipiac men’s ice hockey head coach Jim Armstrong before Friday’s game vs. Harvard.

by the numbers

3:02.4

Sophomore Jessica Soja’s time in the 1,000-meter run in Saturday’s Dartmouth Invitational Classic.

17

assists by freshman nicole kosta this season, tied with kelly babstock for the team lead.

Ousmane Drame

Men’s basketball Forward

ATHLETES OF THE WEEK

Freshman Boston, Mass.

Ousmane Drame, a freshman forward, averaged 6.5 points and 10 rebounds in the men’s basketball team’s two-game road trip to New Jersey that saw the Bobcats beat Fairleigh Dickinson and Monmouth.

Drame is second on the team in rebounding.

Felicia Barron Women’s basketball Guard

Junior Springfield, Mass.

Felicia Barron averaged 20 points, 4.5 steals and 3.5 assists in two games in New Jersey. Barron scored 23 points in the team’s win vs. Monmouth on Saturday and recorded six steals in the team’s loss to Fairleigh Dickinson Monday night.

13

points senior guard james johnson is away from 1,600 in his quinnipiac basketball career.

5 42.7

Players on the men’s ice hockey team who have played in all 28 games so far this season.

rebounds the women’s basketball team averages, which is first in the Northeast Conference.

Matt Eisenberg/Chronicle

Matt Eisenberg/Chronicle

20|Sports coach’s corner

“I don’t expect our A game to be there until the end of the season. I’m looking for a peak to come as their skills develop.”

— Mary Ann powers Acrobatics & tumbling

The Quinnipiac Chronicle

Sports First Flips

Fe b r u a r y 8 , 2 0 1 2

quchronicle.com/sports sports@QUChronicle.com @QUChronSports

Matt Eisenberg/Chronicle Full story, more photos, Eight players flip in the air as Quinnipiac competes in the tumbling heat of the compulsory event in Saturday’s meet vs. Maryland. The team is in its second year in the National Collegiate Acrobatics and Tumbling Association.

Page 16

Moore preps for crucial home-and-home series By jon alba Staff Writer

matt eisenberg/Chronicle

Quinnipiac men’s basketball head coach Tom Moore yells in the team’s game vs. Sacred Heart on Jan. 17. The Bobcats are currently in sixth place in the Northeast Conference and have the toughest remaining NEC schedule.

With a look of focus and concentration on his face, Quinnipiac men’s basketball coach Tom Moore looked down at the hardwood floor ahead of him on Lender Court.

Reflecting on the team’s recent five-game Northeast Conference stretch in which the Bobcats went 4-1 with three road wins, he spoke confidently.

“We feel good right now,” Moore said.

The trip improved the Bobcats’ overall tab to 13-10 and evened their conference record at 6-6, leaving them in sixth place in the NEC. Quinnipiac begins arguably its toughest stretch of the season tonight at 7 p.m. at the TD Bank Sports Center, when it plays the first game of a home-and-home series against Central Connecticut State University. The teams will meet again Sunday at noon at the Detrick Gymnasium in New Britain.

“What you have to do is gameplan specifically for each game, at least that’s what we feel for what we run,” the coach said.

Moore said that he plans to group two different offensive packages for the two games,

with about eight or 10 sets for the first contest and possibly as many as 11 for Sunday’s game at CCSU. Since the 2008-2009 season, the Bobcats are 5-1 vs. the Blue Devils, their only loss coming on the road over three years ago. This will be the first time the two have played a home-and-home in that time period.

“One of the things I’m proudest about since I’ve been here is making [games vs. Central] more of a rivalry,” he said. “Their gym is always loud, and I think there’s a healthy dislike for Quinnipiac, which is great and makes rivalries good.”

With a sweep of the series this week and two losses by Robert Morris, the Bobcats could find themselves in a virtual tie for fourth place in the NEC, leaving Moore excited for the series ahead.

Quinnipiac has the toughest remaining schedule among NEC teams, as its opponents have a combined conference-winning percentage of .653. After the Central series, the Bobcats will face St. Francis (N.Y.), Long Island, See Moore Page 17