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‘Hands Off!’ protestors filled war memorial at New Jersey State House

By Raeanne Raccagno Copy Editor

Hundreds of “Hands Off” protestors created echoes of chants through Trenton’s neighborhood blocks on April 5 during a rally against President Donald Trump’s administrative actions.

Arranged by almost 200 organizations, more than 1,000 protests happened across the country as a nationwide effort “to stop the most brazen power grab in modern history,” according to Hands Off website. New Jersey 50501 organized the protest in Trenton and spoke out against “the deliberate weakening” of programs that support Americans, according to a press release. Attendees filled the World War II memorial and spilled out, almost filling the sidewalk. Protestors ranged from young kids to senior citizens. Andrei Camurungan with 50501, and one of the rally’s organizers, described the crowd as having a “fire in

Massive success for TCNJ’s Day of Giving

By Aidan Mastandrea News Editor

The College held its 10th Annual Day of Giving on March 26. With over 2,000 unique donors raising a total of $395,890, many of the organizations on campus will benefit from the day greatly.

After shifting to a full week of giving a year ago, the College went back to the original concept for the 10th iteration of the Day of Giving. The week of giving in 2024 raised over $440,000, according to the College’s website.

All seven of the College’s academic schools had activities set up around campus in hopes of getting the student body engaged, along with imploring people to donate.

“The energy around campus was higher, and it felt more positive,” said freshman engineering major Carl White in a text message to The Signal. “There were a lot of orgs doing fundraising activities too so I felt that if people gave to TCNJ, they would most likely support and give to student orgs on campus.

The College’s athletic programs also got involved in the action. The Day of Giving is integral to many of the teams on campus, as the money they raise goes directly to their program.

“Day of Giving was another huge

success for our athletics department,” said men’s basketball coach Matthew Goldsmith. “Like they always do, our alums came out in full force and supported our programs in invaluable ways.”

The men’s basketball team raised $3,510 on the day.

“Every donation helps support the student-athlete experience with additional benefits like assistant coaches, team trips, nutrition coaching, and team building activities,” said Goldsmith. “Without our alumni, we would not be able to give our student-athletes a firstclass, championship-level experience.”

The men’s swimming and diving team accumulated over $17,000 from 190 total donors, the most unique donors of any organization at the College this year.

“We’re fortunate to have an amazing support base that consistently gives back so we can continue to create a championship environment for our team,” said Head Coach David Dow. “We’re proud not only of the nationallevel results we achieve but the great students and people we produce.”

Money is certainly the motivating factor behind the day of giving, but the activities on campus created a fun environment for students.

Local ice cream shop creates social media buzz

By Aidan Mastandrea News Editor

After pulling off of Brunswick Circle, while driving down Princeton Avenue in Lawrence Township, some may not even notice a small white building down the right-hand side. For locals though, that building is home to one of the most popular ice cream joints around.

Mr. Ice Cream has been around for a few years and has already solidified itself as the go-to place for all types of ice cream treats. All over social media, lovers of the local spot have been very vocal about the greatness of owner Reggie Loude’s spot.

On Tuesday, April 8, in 40-degree weather, people still lined up to get their hands on a cup or cone of the soft-serve ice cream.

“This is actually my first time, I heard a lot about the viral Dubai sundae,” said Bryant Sanchez, Trenton native and alumni of the College. “ I heard the stories and just here to try it out.”

The Dubai sundae, which is a blend of chocolate, pistachios and strawberries, has been a crowd favorite. People wait in line and hope that it hasn’t sold out.

“The [Dubai sundae] is definitely the hype,” said Melissa Messenger, a frequent Mr. Ice Cream customer. “It’s kind of his hit. Everyone’s coming for it.”

Mr. Ice Cream is much different than a typical ice cream store. With options including nutella banana or lotus biscoff sundaes and toffee banana pie, Loude has a plethora of dessert options for any palate.

The shop’s virality peaked on Facebook just a week ago as a Ewing local posted about Mr. Ice Cream, proclaiming that the people who wait in line for ice cream “look absolutely ridiculous.” This Facebook user faced immediate backlash as over 100 commenters defended the store, claiming that Loude’s store is great for the community.

“From what I have heard from several people, the owner is a very friendly, ‘hands-on’ kind of guy,” said Terri Carabelli Wylie, a former Ewing resident who now resides in Hamilton, in a message to the Signal. “I believe he is the reason for the closeness within the community. A lot of business owners are not visible for the day-to-day sales, etc. I think that’s what makes this place stand out from the rest.”

Wylie was one of the Facebook commenters defending the local business.

As the weather gets warmer, Mr. Ice Cream will continue to be one of the busiest local businesses around. People love ice cream, and in the eyes of many residents, Mr. Ice Cream does it the best.

page 12 Baseball Catcher Ryan Goodall won NJAC player of the week, leading the team to three wins.

Val Kilmer

The obituary of beloved ‘Top Gun’actor

Val Kilmer after

Keisha N. Blain leads 2025 Alan Dawley Memorial Lecture

By Natalia Tomczak and Adamarie Tait Community Outreach Coordinator and Correspondent

Historian and writer Keisha N. Blain led a talk at the College on “Black Women & the Struggle for Human Rights in US History.” This presentation was given as the 2025 Alan Dawley Memorial Lecture on April 3, where Blain noted the nationwide fear that conversations like hers would be shut down.

“One of the reasons why I gave the talk, quite frankly, is I don’t know if I’ll be able to give the talk in two weeks, or three weeks,” said Blain in a postlecture interview.

Blain is currently a professor at

Brown University and was a former professor at the College from 2012 to 2014. She taught African American History 1865-present, as well as African American Women’s History.

Blain’s lecture spoke to the tradition of human rights advocacy led by Black women from the United States, which has had a global impact.

She began the lecture by discussing Ayo Tometi, an activist and co-founder of the Black Lives Matter movement. Blain emphasized how Tometi’s 2016 United Nations address shaped the continual fight for human rights worldwide.

Tometi addressed the most powerful body for human rights, just as many Black activists have historically. She emphasized the impact of global capitalism, white supremacy and the suppression of democracy as the root causes of inequality. She believes that the cause of inequality in one nation is shaped by a history of slavery and the impact of globalism, as marginalized groups are exploited across the globe.

“These women were human rights couriers,” Blain said to the crowd.

Fannie Lou Hamer was the focal point of the lecture. Hamer was born into a family of 20 in the early 1900s and worked as a sharecropper in Mississippi. Her family had a salary of only $3,000 a year, living under the poverty line. Her speech at the

PROTEST / Nationwide outrage over Trump’s actions

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“I said, take me to Trenton, that’s my home,” Watson Coleman said. “We’re not falling for the lies and broken promises… We have rights in this country, get your hands off our rights.”

At peak population, protestors were shoulder to shoulder and the air was covered with homemade signs.

Chris Schultz, a 66-year-old veteran, held a sign that said, “veterans fighting fascism.” He said he first made his sign for the nationwide veterans march on March 14 and has now made it his universal sign. This was the sixth protest that Schultz has attended, and he said he’ll continue to show up to any that are within driving distance.

“I want my country back,” Schultz said. “I want to show everyone else that not all veterans are MAGA types.”

A moment of the protest focused on education when Union County Education Association President James Frazier and New Jersey Education Association President and New Jersey Democratic Gubernatorial Candidate Sean Spiller spoke.

Spiller gave a story about his childhood in the foster system, where he benefited from school resources like free school lunches and special education teachers.

“That’s what this is all about folks, this is about this administration trying to take away things that ensure that the working class got what was necessary to compete in a society that was trying to keep us down,” Frazier said. “Let us rally, let us stand up, let us be a revolution, let us ensure that we will make sure that their hands stay off our democracy.”

1964 Democratic National Convention to advocate for voting rights is what Hamer is most known for, although her work extends abroad.

Blain concluded her lecture by discussing Hamer’s most famous work, Freedom Farms, developed in 1967 in the Mississippi Delta. Freedom Farms helped provide food, shelter and childcare to over 1,600 families in need. Hamer famously states that “hunger has no color line” and she “will walk a mile for anyone who is hungry, Black or white”

“Every aspect of history is connected, and it’s our responsibility to recognize the bias in the narrative and to work to bring the untold stories to light,” said freshman history secondary special education major and audience member Sidonie Lyons. “Dr. Blain’s emphasis on the intersectionality of social issues left me with a new perspective on all social movements throughout our history.”

After the lecture, a reception was held where students got to speak with Blain further. Jackie Anderson, president of the College’s Women in Learning and Leadership program, asked a pertinent question: “How do you think that we can foster Hamer’s transformative vision in such a regressive sphere?” Blain’s response was, “The key is community.”

Blain also spoke to current pressing issues, such as book banning and research funding cuts. Brown is one of

the universities that received warnings that research grants may be suspended, and Blain notes that “it has been a tense time on campus” as a result.

“I recognize the power of this history — but I also realize that every time I talk about this history, it could be the last,” said Blain. “I also recognize that I have a book coming out, and I’m excited about the book, but I’m also bracing myself for the fact that the book could be banned.”

Blain is already familiar with the feeling that students don’t have access to her books. Her books “Four Hundred Souls” and “Until I Am Free” have both been banned in multiple states.

Blain also spoke about the importance of saving important documents and conducting oral histories. She was able to write her first book, “Set The World on Fire,” due to the fact that someone had kept copies of documents from the 1930s, 40s and 50s in their basement — which gave her a window into Black nationalist womens’ ideas. These were sources from newspapers that are no longer in circulation, nor are they on microfilm. She prompts people to “think about preservation” and “think about collections.”

“What story do you want to leave behind about yourself, your family, your friends?” asked Blain. “This might be a good time to start thinking about what you save and how you save it.”

Spiller articulated how he came as an immigrant, teacher, Black man, labor and union leader for the working class.

“I’m saying this to Donald Trump and his puppet master, Elon Musk, you will not erase who I am,” Spiller said. “You will not spew your hate, division, your efforts to go after us, our communities, and families, you will not win with that, we will win with our hope and our solidarity.”

Sarah Lamm, coordinator for Women’s and Fair Practices, Local 2369, spoke about federal workers. Lamm focused on social security during her speech.

“Social security is the one place you interact with from the day you’re born til the day you die…we’re here for you,” Lamm said.

Rev. Erin Kinahan, the only transgender woman pastor in a Lutheran church in New Jersey, also spoke, saying, “You know what I say to the people in the Republican party who have tried to hijack my religion and turn it into a weapon of hate and tried demonizing trans people, Black and brown people, poor people and immigrants? We will not give up until we win and we bring America back.”

While a wide age range was present, people still spoke about how most of the crowd was a part of the older generation and more young protestors needed to attend.

“I do agree with the statement that more young people need to come out here. I feel like Gen Z does have a lot of things to say online about the administration but when we come out, we’ve seen that it’s a lot of older people,” Cameron Santoro, a 24-year-old attendee, said. “I definitely grew up with these values and it’s a hopeful feeling knowing that there are other people, so that’s why I like to come to these things.”

Toward the end of the protest, organizers opened the floor to the crowd for people to give their own testimonies.

Many of the volunteer speakers spoke about their grandfathers who fought in wars, saying their sacrifices were “not for nothing.” They gestured to the war illustrations around them in the memorial while shouting out, “it does not have to come to this.”

Coffee chat with Ewing Council helps residents connect on a personal level

By Raeanne Raccagno Copy Editor

Two Ewing Council members will be stationed at Dunkin Donuts locations to share coffee and conversations with Ewing residents during New Jersey’s Local Government Week.

New Jersey’s Local Government Week is from April 6-12. According to the New Jersey State League of Municipalities’ website, the week is “a time for municipalities to encourage civic education, community collaboration, volunteerism, and local pride.”

One of the events the Ewing council is hosting this week is “Coffee with Ewing Council,” from April 9-11. Council President Jennifer Keyes-Maloney and Councilwoman Kathleen Wollert hosted the first coffee get-together on April 9 from 8-10 a.m. at the Dunkin Donuts on Grand Ave.

“I think it gives a chance for our residents to meet us on a very personal level and talk to us as individuals in an informal setting,” Wollert said. “I think sometimes conversations are easier and more productive than in a formal business meeting setting.”

Wollert also said that she and other Council members engaged and had community discussions in their everyday life activities, like her yoga classes or grocery shopping.

“Sometimes people don’t realize that our Council meetings, yes, they are public meetings, but they are business meetings,” Wollert said. “It’s more specific to what’s being considered at that meeting, and then they’re not confined either to this period of time, where you have five minutes to talk.”

This was the first time the Council hosted a coffee conversation event during Local Government Week, and both councilwomen said they see the Council continuing to hold events like this in the future outside of the week.

“It’s nice to have a one-on-one, I think this is wonderful,” Christine Kamph, a Ewing resident for 25 years, said. “It’s nice to put faces to the names.”

Kamph was excited to comment on how much she loves the new signage and website design for Ewing.

“People don’t always know what local government does,” Keyes-Maloney said. “So there are things that oftentimes we have folks come into our Council meetings thinking that we control them, and we don’t. Or we do, and then we can do something about it.”

Keyes-Maloney mentioned how they’re moving through the budget right now and when community members see their taxes go up, they will go to the Council. The Council will then explain the different tax components and how and why they may go up.

The president has been serving on the board for 13 years and has lived in Ewing since around 1976, and the councilwoman has been living in Ewing since she was 11 years old and has been serving on the board for almost 30 years.

Wollert said she’s seen the community change in multiple ways throughout her life with things like the population, appearance and the different needs of people who have lived and worked in the township.

“We are a community and I see them do pretty awesome things…people show up and they help each other. Remember we had the explosion all those years ago. The outpouring for their neighbors is incredible,” Keyes-Maloney said. “We kind of undersell ourselves; there are other towns that oversell themselves.”

Photo by Andre Paras Blain is a former professor at the College.

Wollert sat to talk to Ewing residents.

Photo by Raeanne Raccagno

The protest took place in Trenton.

Cop Shop: Burnt bacon, missteps and more boots

By Alena Bitonti Arts & Entertainment Editor

The Signal and Campus Police work together on a weekly basis to inform the campus community about crime on and around campus. All records given to The Signal are public records and do not contain personal information. Some information provided may be triggering for some students.

Booted vehicles

Between March 26 and April 7, there were seven booted vehicles on campus. A vehicle is eligible to be booted if it has three or more unpaid citations. Campus Police has reported an increase in the number of car boots compared to previous years, largely due to AIMS, the police station’s new parking management system.

March 25: Sink or swim

Campus Police received a call from Ewing Police at approximately 6:22 p.m. regarding a 15-year-old male who fell off a diving board

at Packer Hall while practicing and injured his ankle. The patient slipped and appeared to have a broken ankle, with visible scrapes and bleeding on the left side of his foot. Ewing EMS arrived on scene at approximately 6:38 p.m., applied a splint to the injured ankle, and transported the patient to Capital Health Regional Medical Center.

March 25: Laundry mishap

At approximately 5:36 p.m., smoke was reported coming from the laundry room on the first floor of Phelps Hall. Upon arrival at 5:37 p.m., Campus Police observed thick smoke throughout the room, though no fire was present and the fire alarm had not been activated. Ewing Township Fire Department and West Trenton Fire Department arrived at around 5:42 p.m.

After testing each dryer with a heat sensor, Dryer 4 was identified as the likely source due to its high temperature. It was taken out of service, unplugged and moved to prevent further use. A high-powered fan was used to ventilate the area,

Hydroponic lab hosts hard launch on campus

By Raeanne Raccagno Copy Editor

Indoor Agriculture Labs held an open house on April 2 to show off the current and potential growth of the partnership between the College’s Schools of Science and Engineering with GeoGreens.

Hydroponics is a virtual growing method where a plant’s roots rest in a nutrient-rich water solution instead of soil. According to the iA Labs’ website, it reduces water usage by up to 90% when compared to traditional farming methods, and it minimizes the use of pesticides and fertilizers, giving way for cleaner food production.

GeoGreens is an indoor hydroponic farm in Hamilton, New Jersey, that’s committed to growing fresh produce for the surrounding area year-round. Desmond Hayes founded GeoGreens in 2014 after living and being around different food deserts in New Jersey.

“I noticed that a lot of them weren’t getting better,” Hayes said. “I latched on to hydroponics, at the time I was trying to figure out what I wanted to do to have an impact on the world, but also different communities. I found out the hydroponics checks off a lot of boxes environmentally and with helping the community, feeding them more quality produce.”

Hayes has also been donating produce to The Shop at the College.

The unique feature at the College is located in Armstrong Hall 103, which used to be a storage closet. Andrea Welker, dean for the school of engineering, said the space was ideal with its size, access to water and temperature control features.

“The one intent of the lab itself is for it to be very flexible and versatile,” Hayes said.

Multiple designs are underway in the miniature hydroponic farm that experiment with different types and depths of lights. There’s also one aquaponic system, which

and TCNJ Fire Safety and TCNJ Facilities were notified and responded to the incident.

March 27: Medical report

Campus Police were dispatched to Brower Student Center at approximately 2:08 p.m. on the report of a student who experienced a seizure near the pool tables. Upon arrival, they met with the caller and the patient, who was seated on the floor, conscious and alert. The student had a minor abrasion on the left side of his face. The seizure occurred around 2:03 p.m., during which he was unconscious for about 2-3 minutes. Ewing EMS arrived at 2:15 p.m., but the student refused further medical attention.

March 29: Lights out

After a Travers Hall resident reported that the light above her sink had caught on fire, Campus Police arrived on scene at approximately 2:19 p.m. Strobes and audibles were active and officers discovered the light above the sink was on fire with heavy smoke coming from the room. Ewing Fire Department and Prospect Heights Fire Department arrived on scene around 2:23 p.m. Campus Police used a fire extinguisher to put out the fire.

No injuries were reported, and the residents were relocated to another residence. The fire was determined to have been caused by a bad light ballast. Travers Hall was reoccupied by 2:58 p.m.

March 30: Medical report

Campus Police was dispatched to Brower Student Center for a report of a student feeling ill. Upon arrival, they found the student seated in a chair, conscious and alert. The student reported feeling lightheaded and dizzy while giving a speech. Ewing EMS arrived shortly after to assist, and after evaluating the student, he declined any further medical assistance.

March 31: Medical report

At approximately 12:21 p.m., Campus Police arrived at Forcina Hall for a report of a female who had passed out. Upon arrival,

they found the student lying on the floor, alert and conscious. She reported feeling dizzy and lightheaded before fainting and stated that she has asthma but did not have her inhaler with her. Ewing EMS arrived at 12:27 p.m., assumed patient care and transported her to Capital Health Hopewell for further medical treatment.

April 1: Misstep

After a student fell down the stairs in the Music Building, Campus Police were dispatched at approximately 12:35 p.m. The patient was found seated upright, holding her right ankle. She reported that she had missed the last step, resulting in a tight sensation in her ankle and an inability to move her toes or ankle. Ewing EMS arrived on scene at 12:48 p.m. and assumed patient care. The patient was transported to Capital Health Medical Center in Hopewell for further medical assistance.

April 5: Fall victim

Campus Police was dispatched to Lot 13 for a report of a fall victim at 10:51 a.m. Ewing EMS also responded and found the student seated at the base of the Lot 13 staircase by the elevator. The student explained that while walking down the stairs and texting on her phone, she missed the last two steps, rolled her ankle and fell forward. She had sustained minor abrasions to her hands and left knee and believed she had sprained her left ankle. After being evaluated by Ewing EMS, the student declined further medical assistance.

April 6: Burnt bacon

At approximately 3:27 p.m., responders were dispatched to Centennial Hall for an active fire alarm in the first-floor kitchen. Emergency strobes and audibles were activated, and an odor of cooked food was present, but no smoke or fire was found in the kitchen. The countertops were covered with very crispy bacon and other breakfast items. The stove had been shut off, and the bacon was removed from the pan before arrival.

is a vertical farming system that uses aquatic animals’ waste to fertilize the plants.

An issue that arises with traditional farming has been rain runoff contaminating water from fertilizers and pesticides, but with hydroponics, that’s not a problem. Hayes said the only difficulty that sometimes happens is the changing levels of fluoride that municipalities use to clean water. The differing levels make it harder for him to track the levels and change the water quality accordingly, but it’s never posed a threat to the plant’s health.

Students, staff and the community were invited to the open house to talk to Hayes, learn more about the hydroponic systems and have a taste test of some of the produce. The produce samples were served on edible spoons to prevent any single-use plastic waste.

Right now, students can become involved by volunteering and some classes have been utilizing the space.

“Where I would like for this to go in the future is for us to be doing more sophisticated research over time that’s funded by external funding agencies, that we’ve got students in here working and that it’s incorporated into courses across the campus,” Welker said. “I feel like there are a lot of ways that we could utilize this space and provide a good workforce development.”

Hayes said that along with fighting against food deserts, GeoGreens was also developed to work with minority communities and to create different job opportunities for those not familiar with the systems.

“It’s endless potential for anybody to get involved in this,” Hayes said. “Yes, it’s sufficient, but to introduce more people to it so the business can continue to grow, and whether it be myself or other organizations related to it, populate throughout and we’ll really start to see an impact on food deserts.”

Photo by Andre Paras

Campus Police reported to lot 13 on April 5.

Features

NJ organizations work to protect residents, students from dangers of lead

By Isabella Darcy Managing Editor

This story was produced in collaboration with CivicStory (www.civicstory.org) as part of the NJ Ecology-Civics Reporting project (www. srhub.org).

Developmental delays, learning difficulties and seizures. High blood pressure, mood disorders and memory difficulties. These are the effects lead poisoning can have on children and adults, respectively, according to the Mayo Clinic.

After learning how harmful lead is, United States federal agencies banned the use of leadbased paint and lead pipes in homes in the 1970s and 80s. Despite this, lead contamination in homes remains an issue — especially in lower-income neighborhoods — for those who live in older residences.

To combat lead contamination and

poisoning in New Jersey, numerous organizations throughout the state, including Lead-Free NJ and Isles, Inc, are working to eliminate lead hazards, educate residents about the substance and advocate for lead-related policy changes.

“Lead-based paint is a huge issue,” said Peter Rose, Isles’ managing director of community enterprises. “It didn’t start overnight. It took a lot of years to do that and it takes a lot more years to get all that lead paint taken out or made safe at least.”

In Mercer County, where the College is located, nearly 66% of homes were built before 1980, according to the New Jersey Department of Health. It is therefore possible that some students who live in off-campus housing could have lead in their home.

Also in Mercer County, Trenton is a hot-spot for lead-contaminated homes. Much of the state capital consists of lower-income housing built before 1980. For people living in that housing,

Juniper wins 2025 Mayo Business Plan Competition, takes home $30,000

By Parisa Burton Nation & World Editor

Juniper, a platform dedicated to simplifying patient documentation and billing, took home the grand prize of $30,000 in the 2025 Mayo Business Plan Competition. A team composed of CMO Livia Minaides, a sophomore marketing major, CEO Yasaman Galer, a senior biology major, and COO Isha Patwardhan, a junior biology major, created Juniper and won the competition.

The Juniper team identified a major concern in the healthcare industry, where professionals dismiss genuine patient concerns as trivial. Patients often feel unheard, and rushed out the door during appointments. The team of women discovered that doctor burnout plays a major role in perpetuating this trend.

“Through further research, we determined that a major contributor to burnout is the overwhelming administrative burden, which strains interpersonal interactions between doctors and patients,” Patwardhan said.

The team saw an opportunity to develop a solution that would reduce this stress, streamline workflows and enhance the quality of care. Their ultimate goal was to strengthen the connection between healthcare providers and patients for more meaningful interactions.

According to Patwardhan, Juniper is an audio-based transcription platform that leverages large language processing models to transcribe patient consultations. It uses this transcribed audio to generate billing codes, which streamlines administrative tasks for medical providers in settings like private practices and hospitals.

The team started brainstorming business ideas in December 2024, ultimately deciding to focus on MedTech due to Galer and Patwardhan’s industry knowledge from their experience as emergency medical technicians

addressing lead hazards doesn’t always take priority when there are more immediate concerns like feeding a family, accessing healthcare or getting children to school.

Even if those residents wanted to address lead in their homes, they may not be able to take time off work or afford to miss a paycheck to deal with repairs or inspections, according to Rose.

If a New Jersey home is contaminated with lead, community efforts provide residents with options — some of which can be of no cost.

Isles focuses on lead-based paint remediation. Starting with the initial testing to confirm if there is lead-based paint affecting a home, Isles can perform a healthy homes assessment. Isles provides education no matter if lead is found in a home or not, but if deteriorated lead-based paint is found, the organization will help residents access grants to help them pay for remediation. For qualifying residents, Isles will remove lead-based paint for free.

With similar goals, Isles is a part of LeadFree NJ’s network. Lead-Free NJ is a statewide collaborative with a mission of removing lead from New Jersey’s environment. This means small nonprofits, churches, community groups and larger organizations work together so people most affected by lead exposure are involved in creating solutions.

Lead-Free NJ supports community-based groups that act as trusted “hubs” in highlyaffected neighborhoods, like Trenton.

as well as volunteer work in hospitals.

Currently a scribe, Galer started to notice the inefficiency of the documentation process for doctors and nurses.

“When we realized this issue impacted not just us, but also a significant number of people in the U.S., we knew it was worth pursuing,” Galer said. “We recognized several systemic issues that we could address and we spoke to physicians and nurses to narrow down where our focus should go.”

The main challenge the team encountered during the process was ensuring that there was a need in the market for their business idea.

“We had to continuously revise our business model because of either extreme competition, or a lack of market, or feasibility, and that required talking to medical and tech professionals who are extremely busy,” Galer said.

The team explained in a statement that while audio transcription is a competitive industry due to the growing accessibility of artificial intelligence, their billing automation, AI chat-gatekeeper and clinical support sets them apart in the marketplace, as few competitors have integrated these features in a seamless and accurate manner.

The team has worked diligently to refine their business plan by reaching out to the College’s alumni from diverse fields such as law, marketing, strategy and technology, as well as leveraging Galer and Patwardhan’s connections in medicine and tech.

“Through discussions, feedback sessions and continuous revisions, we made sure our strategy was clear, realistic and innovative,” Minaides said. “This collaborative process not only helped us fine-tune the details but also gave us the confidence that our plan is wellrounded and built for long-term success.”

Many students who attend the College, and live in off-campus housing, told The Signal that they were unsure when the house they are renting was built, if it had been tested for lead or both.

Ryan Rosenthal, a senior mechanical engineering major, rents an off-campus house in Ewing that was built in 1960. Rosenthal told The Signal he has no idea if his landlord has had the home inspected for lead, and that he never thought to ask.

“I am aware of the health dangers of lead exposure,” Rosenthal said. “I’d like to live in a lead-free home.”

Claire Okamoto, a junior communication studies major, also rents an off-campus house. Okamoto believes the house she is renting was built in 2012. Because it is a newer property, it is much less likely that it contains lead-based paint or lead pipes.

Living in a lead-free home is a priority for Okamoto, who understands lead to be a silent killer and has read horror stories about the health dangers of lead.

“It definitely matters to me if the house I am living in is certified as being lead-free because college houses, I would say, tend to get by on a lot of missed inspections and questionable upkeep,” Okamoto said. “Since we’re not in direct contact with the homeowner as frequently as one might be in a family home, it’s especially important to me that my roommates and I are kept informed, whether things are going well or not.”

The East Trenton Collaborative is one of these hubs. ETC members help residents navigate each step of addressing lead hazards, from initial testing to full home remediation. It also provides education to residents about the dangers of lead as well as best practices if they have no choice but to live with lead.

You still have the power

By Raeanne Raccagno Copy Editor

Most people have the notion that the climate crisis of our planet is out of our hands, but there are still everyday swaps or habits you can do to accomplish your part in helping keep a cleaner Earth. “You still have the power!” is a bi-weekly column in The Signal advising on the little things you can do to become more ecofriendly.

Topic of the week: Reusing, what you should do after reducing and before recycling

Stop using Q-tips to clean your ears. You’re pushing the earwax further back and creating waste. Billions of single-use swabs get thrown away and end up where they should not every year. Find alternatives like a metal or silicone ear scraper.

Save things you would usually throw in the

trash for the next time you’re feeling a creative spark. Egg cartons, old toys, wine corks or broken electronics can make a beautiful art piece instead of ending up in a landfill. You can also look up “recycled art” for inspiration. Before clicking on Shein or Zara for the latest fashion trend, check out a thrift store. Most of the time, you’re going to find what you’re looking for or something even better. If you can sew or want to learn, using thrifted clothes is an easy and affordable way to get fabrics.

Don’t overthink the wrapping paper part of gift giving. Do something different and use old magazines, newspapers (like The Signal) or paper grocery bags for wrapping papers and draw or paint cute little doodles on them for something different.

Refillable shops or refilleries are on the rise. Instead of buying the same container of household or food products that are in plastic containers, you can refill those bottles or buy a glass vessel to put the product in.

Photo courtesy of Mike Sherr

Students living in older homes could be exposed to lead.

Graphic by Brooke Zevon

Students should be able to tip at Traditions

By Andre Paras Video Editor

With the end of the spring semester rapidly approaching, I’m facing a big issue when it comes to dining here at the College, and I’m sure a number of fellow students are also going through the same.

I simply have too many flex points to spend, with such little time to do so. As a freshman, I’m currently on the 10 swipes a week at Eickhoff Dining Hall meal plan, which means I started this semester with exactly $534.71 in flex points. And of course, I would not like any of my family’s hard earned cash to go to waste when the semester ends.

Now, if we do the math, so far I’ve

spent around $28.68 a week at on campus locations with my flex points — a total of $229.46. To finish my remaining balance of $305.25 before the semester ends, I would have to spend around $50.88 a week over the next 6 weeks to get rid of all my flex points. My plan includes the swipes and meal equivalencies, thus I haven’t had the need to spend too many flex points.

There are other ways of solving this issue, like ditching the dining hall for a few meals, stocking up on sweets for my dorm or supplying all my toiletries from now on from the C-store. Still, all of these come with the inconvenience of altering my daily routine, which is made quick and efficient with the dining hall, adding unnecessary sugars to my diet or simply overpaying at

the C-store for things I could just buy at a normal grocery store.

And so, with excess money and no convenient means of getting rid of it, what’s a better way to get rid of it than to give back? Tips with flex points at Traditions could be a great way of combating this issue, fueling students with that efficacy of giving back in a community setting and giving workers a well-deserved bonus.

Tipping culture is something that’s become divisive in our nation, and I just want to make a couple points clear with this proposal: I don’t want this to feel like a burden to students, and I only want this to positively impact how the College’s dining workers are paid.

Frankly, my past few visits to Traditions have left me swamped with unnecessarily long wait times from what appears to be an understaffed team. That’s never to say I’ve had a poor experience with dining employees, or ever disliked the food and if anything I’ve found it all to be positive.

Though, with this in mind, the last thing students would want to see is another place where an employee turns the screen over to you, and you’re met with an awkward encounter, feeling like you should tip against your will.

That’s why I think tipping should be an option, but not something introduced after every order. Maybe there could be a sign saying how, or an unspoken rule where students can say, “I’d like to tip X amount of flex points on top of my order.”

The work these employees do is also typical restaurant work, and in my opinion, very much deserving of the tip. After

Drag queens should be more prepared for ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’

By AJ Mun Correspondent

For 17 seasons, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” has been paving the way for LGBTQ+ representation on television. By advocating for trans rights and raising money for charity, “Drag Race” allows the unseen to be showcased. RuPaul has created a show that blends competition, charisma, uniqueness, nerve and talent to give queens the chance to become America’s next drag superstar.

Unfortunately, some queens have what it takes, while others do not.

The show contains a series of maxi and mini challenges that put the contestants to the test to determine who dominated the week and who deserves to sashay away (go home).

These tests include challenges for design, comedy, acting and talent portions. However, what I’ve noticed is that even for contestants who know the Drag Race Bible by heart, I can’t help but feel that some of them seem unprepared for the show.

If these queens have indeed watched every season of the show, as they claim, shouldn’t they have expected to participate in a challenge where they must design their own runway looks?

Now, I understand that not everyone is a

seamstress, and that’s perfectly fine. However, if you’re auditioning to be a contestant on “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” you better know how to use a hot glue gun, a stapler or even some duct tape to create a garment that reads well on the runway.

What tires me personally is watching a queen stress themself out over a moment they’ve had ample time to prepare for. We’re on Season 17 — you know the base formula by now.

In the same vein as the design challenge, I find myself growing more and more frustrated with contestants each season as their Snatch Game impressions continue to decline. I simply cannot fathom how someone could be a fan of the show and neglect one of the most iconic challenges RuPaul has ever introduced.

For example, in this season, Arrietty should have had an impression other than a baby locked and loaded before arriving on set. While her runway looks were absolutely stunning, the blatant lack of preparation for challenges beyond design was abysmal at best.

The purpose of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” is to find America’s next drag superstar — someone who has the full package and can deliver the ideal drag experience. That includes runway, design, comedy, talent and performance.

What baffles me is that as the seasons go on, it feels like the queens are getting younger

all, Traditions is a full service restaurant where students place orders brought out to them with staff of waiters and waitresses — whether it be appetizers, entrees, drinks or desserts.

According to Indeed, Sodexo workers at the College seem to all make on average $20 an hour, which appears to be the same across different dining locations. Maybe more workers would be encouraged to staff Traditions with this, and wait times could be reduced in the process.

Some key issues I could see arising from this if it were actually proposed are how the College would feasibly give back to all these workers, and why students should have to give back to a dining plan they already pay lots of money for to begin with.

And that’s why I suggested earlier that this tipping option should never be suggested, but just possible for people to do, and only really be emphasized toward the end of the spring semester when students don’t have anything reasonable to spend points on.

Maybe if it isn’t so feasible for the College to fund, the conversion between student flex point tips to real dollars in workers’ paychecks can be reduced, but still giving that bonus to them in a way after reaching a certain amount of flex points.

Lastly, many students build great bonds and camaraderie with Sodexo workers across the College, and I think this tipping feature could only contribute to a more positive feeling of community in all aspects of the College. It may seem cliche, but the lifelong gift of giving back to others never seemed to hurt anyone before.

and more inexperienced. We’re seeing this a lot, especially in this current season.

Two examples of queens who I feel need more refining and training are Lydia B Kollins and Lana Ja’Rae. Kollins is 23 years old, and Ja’Rae is 22, and while both queens showed so much potential, they ultimately didn’t have as much follow-through as the other contestants.

That’s not to say that young queens can’t be just as talented — if not more so — than older contestants. However, the rush to get into the “Drag Race” Werk Room is much quicker than it used to be. That’s to be expected as the show gains popularity, but I don’t think that excuses the underdevelopment of skills required to win the competition.

While Ja’Rae had some great runways, and a few surprisingly strong moments in the challenges, she very much represents the modern-day queen. She opts for little to no padding or breastplates, favors high-fashion makeup over eccentric looks, and leans toward more traditionally desirable fashion geared toward the modern-day woman rather than delivering big, grand and campy looks.

On the contrary, Kollins brought a fresh and quirky aesthetic to the show. However, I wish she had leaned more into her Tim Burtonesque style instead of switching it up between episodes. Kollins struck me as a queen who could be a great competitor one day, but in her current state, she was never truly seen as a threat. That being said, she’s definitely a contender for a great “All Stars” run. Just not next season, please.

At the end of the day, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” will always be a great show to turn to for comedy and entertainment. I just wish the contestants would prepare a little more. The fiercer the competition, the more entertaining it would be to watch great queens somehow slip up and be sent home.

They just better have a good exit line as they sashay away.

Dear Lioness: I need help with…

Talking to my crush. I’m not in any greek life and I’m not 21 so I never get to see him. He plays tennis but I’m bad at tennis so I don’t wanna go and embarrass myself. Any tips? Take advantage of the times that you do see him. He’s wearing something cool or looks nice? Let him know, everyone appreciates a simple “you look nice.” Don’t put so much pressure on conversations either, everyone stutters or says something weird here and there. Even if you don’t play tennis, you can still engage in a conversation with him. Ask if coming here to play was always his plan, and don’t be shy to joke about your lack of tennis skills, maybe he’ll offer some classes.

Breaking up with someone for the first time Any nerves or hesitations are completely understandable, but it’s best to be honest for both of your sakes. Start a conversation with them in person, it’s more respectful, unless you’re long distance, then do a phone call. Explain how you’re feeling, or have been feeling, and why you don’t see the relationship progressing anymore. Be direct; vagueness will cause confusion and could haunt you later on. Be prepared for their reaction, and let them speak their mind as well. Also, do not send them a “we need to talk” text. Don’t forget to take care of yourself during and afterward too.

Photo courtesy of IMDb

Drag queens know what to expect when entering the Werk Room, so they should prepare for it.

Tipping at Traditions could be a win-win for students and for workers.

Photo by Andre Paras

Illustration by Sky Stewart

Student workers deserve year-round appreciation

By Signal Editorial Board

Student employees are essential to the operations of the College, and deserve to be recognized in honor of student worker appreciation week.

From operating the mailroom to assisting in the library, students keep the school running by contributing their work to the tasks that may be otherwise overseen.

Currently, there are approximately 1,600 of students employed by the College, according to head media relations officer Luke Sacks. 1,600 individuals at the College devote their hard work, time and dedication to ensuring that operations across campus are running smoothly.

While additionally balancing academics, extracurricular activities and life as a college student, student workers dedicate themselves to the College and deserve more appreciation for all of their hard work.

Whether students work as community advisors, ambassadors, desk assistants or technicians, every single position is vital to keep the College moving forward. Student workers are the backbone of the school’s daily operations.

From the early morning shifts to late-night duties, student employees consistently show up and deliver, all while managing their own demanding schedules.

It can be easy to overlook the fact that the people that help set up and run on-campus events, tend to residence hall needs or operate information desks at various buildings are students, just like the rest of us. These employees are our classmates, friends and neighbors, while also being a face of the College.

These students take on roles that require a variety of skills and responsibilities, as well as a level of professionalism that they maintain throughout their role.

So, this week and every week, we encourage students to consistently support student employees at the College. As fellow students, showing even the smallest amount of appreciation can go such a long way. National Student Employment Week is from April 13-19, and is also a time to reflect on how the campus community can advocate for student workers. From fair wages to manageable hours, student employees deserve acknowledgment and action.

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The Signal is published bi-weekly during the academic year and not financed by the Student Activity Fund, but solely by advertisement revenue. Any student may submit articles to The Signal. Publication of submitted articles is at the discretion of the editors. All materials submitted become the sole property of The Signal.

The Letters section is an open forum for opinions. Submissions that announce events or advertise in any way will not be printed.

The Signal willingly corrects mistakes. If you think we have made a mistake, contact us at signal@tcnj.edu.

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Nationwide anti-Trump protests emerge in response to controversial executive actions

By Parisa Burton Nation & World Editor

A series of mass anti-Trump protests emerged in cities nationwide on April 5 in response to Social Security, healthcare, tariffs and education slashes, as well as crackdowns on immigration. Organizations including the grassroots movement Indivisible and public policy advocacy group MoveOn spearheaded the “Hands Off” protests, according to the The New York Times.

The protest marked the first major demonstration since Trump regained office, with about 1,200 demonstrations across the United States, Canada and Mexico, Reuters reported.

“President Trump is threatening health

care, Social Security and education, making life harder for the average American, while benefiting his richest friends” is the message that New York Times reporters gathered from organizers.

The Hands Off protest in some ways resembled the mass protests that surfaced during Trump’s first time in office, such as the Women’s March in Washington, D.C. in 2017, which advocated for gender equality, civil rights and other social justice issues.

The takeover of the House of Representatives by Democrats during the 2018 midterm elections can be attributed to protests like these. However, such protests were not successful in overturning Roe v. Wade or compelling Congress to pass police reform laws, according to The New York

Tesla sales plummet amid Elon Musk backlash

By Brinda Patel Staff Writer

After Elon Musk voiced his support for President Donald Trump’s administration and far right parties in Europe, Tesla has now become a subject of boycotts and political protests. Musk’s right-wing shift is not sitting well with Tesla shareholders and potential buyers, a majority of whom identify as liberal, according to PBS.

AP News reported that liberal Tesla buyers were once attracted to Musk’s environmentally conscious discussions about how his electric vehicles could help alleviate global fossil-fuel destruction. AP News also reported that many Tesla owners are now pasting bumper stickers on their cars with sayings such as, “I bought it before Elon went nuts.”

Further backlash has recently occurred after Musk worked closely with Trump to cut federal jobs and reduce financial allocations within the Department of Government Efficiency. The Atlantic reported that protestors marched outside all 277 Tesla showrooms and service centers on March 29 in the United States.

Robby Degraff, an analyst for AutoPacific, told The Atlantic, “You’re definitely seeing a lot of people say, ‘You know what? I don’t want to be associated with the trash that’s going on right now around Elon Musk. I’m just going to get rid

Times.

“The protests were effective in the short term, but in the longer term, unless there is some kind of resounding defeat politically, movements like Trump’s are able to reconstitute and, in this case, win,” said Erica Chenoweth, a political scientist, to The New York Times.

Approximately half a million people pledged to participate in the recent national protests, with the majority attending those closest to home. Jason Stanley, former philosophy professor at Yale University, told The New York Times that in order to make a lasting difference, protests must occur “beyond protest-friendly environments like liberal cities and college campuses.”

Notably, hundreds of people protested outside of the Social Security Administration headquarters, a top target of Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency, which has already eliminated 200,000 jobs from the federal workforce. They protested against the agency’s cuts, including those that benefited the disabled and elderly.

Stanley emphasized that while protests by themselves may not put an end to Trump’s actions, they still “help propel the opposition.”

Thousands of protesters marched at the Capitol, flowing onto the lawn bordering the Washington Monument. Terry Klein, a retired biomedical scientist from Princeton, New Jersey, was among those gathered there. Klein told Reuters that she was driven to attend because “our whole country is under attack, all of our institutions, all the things that make America what it is.”

Many protesters were concerned about the long-term negative economic impact Trump’s widespread, hefty tariffs will bring.

“It’s going to cost people their jobs — certainly their 401Ks,” Wayne Hoffman, a retired money manager from Cape May, New Jersey, told Reuters. “People have lost tens of thousands of dollars.”

According to Reuters, Paul Kretschmann, a retired attorney from Connecticut, never attended a protest in his life until this one, noting that he is worried that his Social Security benefits will be stripped and that Trump’s executive actions resemble a “larger plan to dismantle the government” and “maintain power.”

In New York City, protesters flooded subway cars, heading toward Bryant Park with cardboard signs and making their way to Madison Square Park. Business Insider reporters that were assigned to cover the New York protests were surprised that middleaged individuals dominated the crowd, a stark contrast to pandemic protests made up of mostly Gen Z. They also noted that the majority of signs focused on economic issues over social ones.

“It makes sense since many Americans are watching their retirement savings dwindle in the face of crashing markets and worry that staff cuts to the Social Security Administration could threaten their benefits,” Business Insider stated.

Protest signs ridiculed Elon Musk, in addition to Trump, with statements like “hands off democracy,” “hands off Social Security,” “human not corporate greed,” “stop the Dodge” and “no one voted for Musk.”

“There are so many issues,” Kelley Laird, an attendee of the Washington protest, told NPR. “They’re coming after education, coming after health care, coming after the arts, coming after the press.”

of my car.”

According to the Wall Street Journal, Tesla’s global vehicle deliveries have sunk 13% in the first quarter compared to the same period last year. Additionally, General Motors and Kia have released new electric vehicles, further reducing Tesla’s market share as EV sales grow.

Tesla reported a total of 336,681 deliveries globally in the first quarter of 2025. However, the sales are down compared to the 387,000 in the same quarter one year ago. The company will post further financial results for the first quarter on April 22.

In 2024, Bernstein Research analysts told the WSJ that they believe “2025 will be another tough year for Tesla” after global deliveries throughout all of 2024 saw a 1% decrease from the year before.

The Australian Broadcasting Corporation published a chart with data from the Australian Automotive Dealer Association’s consumer willingness to buy or lease a Tesla in the future. The chart showcases that 34% are less willing and 13% of people are now more willing. However, this matter had no impact on the remaining 53%.

Specifically, Tesla’s best selling Model Y is struggling due to factors including protests, as well as potential buyers holding off purchases after Tesla announced plans for an updated version later this year, according to PBS.

PBS further detailed that financial analysts have downplayed the backlash of Musk’s “polarizing” political views and are now realizing how much it is damaging the company.

At a Wisconsin rally on March 30, Musk acknowledged this fact as well.

“This is a very expensive job,” Musk said. “My Tesla stock and the stock of everyone who holds Tesla has gone roughly in half.” Tesla shares fell nearly 5.6% on April 2 in early trading within the stock market, Investopedia reported.

When asked by Fox Business’s Larry Kudlow about how he is running Tesla and his other businesses, Musk replied, “With great difficulty.”

Thousands of anti-Trump demonstrations emerged in cities across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons Tesla’s electric vehicle sales have plummeted following Elon Musk’s political decisions.

Sen. Cory Booker officially breaks 68-year record for longest speech on the Senate floor

By Kylie Macallister Correspondent

New Jersey Democratic Sen. Cory Booker has set a new record for the longest speech on the Senate floor as a form of protest against the agenda of the Trump administration.

Booker’s speech was 25 hours and five minutes long, beating the previous record of 24 hours and 18 minutes set by Sen. Strom Thurmond in 1957. Thurmond, who was a segregationist,

held the record for 68 years after attempting to block the Civil Rights Act of 1957 from being passed.

Although a number of prolonged speeches and filibusters had taken place following Thurmond’s 1957 recordbreaking delivery, it was not until Booker’s speech on Tuesday that the long-held record was officially broken.

Booker began his speech by expressing his gratitude to the Senate and the individuals who keep the Senate functional.

“I want to say on the top that I have tremendous love for this institution, and a lot of that is born from the people that are here,” Booker said.

Booker then proceeded to discuss the history of the United States and the Senate, emphasizing the differences between the Senate today and the one the founding fathers of the U.S. initially established.

“I don’t think that our founders would have imagined a body like this,” Booker said. “With Black people on both sides of the aisle, with women serving here, with folks from many different backgrounds.”

Booker then followed up this discussion by revealing the objective of his speech, stating, “I rise with the intention of disrupting the normal business of the U.S. Senate for as long as I am physically able.”

Booker then shifted the focus of his speech to discussing the ongoing state of the country, and his dissatisfaction with the current administration.

“What is going on in our country is not normal, that this going on in our country is wrong,” Booker said.

With the growing disdain for the Trump administration amongst Democrats, Booker’s record-breaking speech has become a source of motivation for the Democratic party, according to CNN.

Sen. Peter Welch, a Democrat from Vermont, was one of many individuals who expressed their support for Booker’s speech. Welch took to the social media app X on April 1 to share his opinion, stating, “[Sen. Cory Booker] refuses to pretend that what President Trump and Republicans are doing is normal. I couldn’t agree more.”

Another supporter of Booker’s speech was Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, who praised Booker

during his speech on the Senate floor, according to The Guardian.

“Would the Senator yield for a question?” Schumer asked.

“Chuck Schumer,” Booker said. “It’s the only time in my life I can tell you no.”

However, Schumer refused Booker’s denial for questioning and proceeded to ask Booker, “Do you know you have just broken the record? Do you know how proud this caucus is of you? Do you know how proud America is of you?”

After over 25 hours without sitting, water, food nor bathroom breaks, Booker concluded his speech, stating, “I yield the floor.”

The moment that Booker concluded his speech, the Senate floor immediately erupted in a long applause. Booker proceeded to express gratitude once again to those who make up the Senate before officially walking away from the podium.

Booker spoke to reporters after his speech, expressing his reasoning and motivations for his actions.

“Since I’ve gotten to the Senate, I always felt it was a strange shadow hanging over this institution,” Booker told CNN. “That the longest speech, all the issues that have come up, all the noble causes that people have done, or the things that typically try to stop –I just found it strange that he had the record.”

After a long-awaited rest, Booker took to X on April 2 to express his gratitude for the support that came after his speech.

“After getting some rest, I am in awe of everyone who continues to lift their voice and speak out,” Booker said. “This is a moment for our country, and we must make a choice about the America we want to be.”

Good News Lions: 100-year-old tortoise ensures species survival, ‘Hero Rat’ sniffs out record number of landmines

By Andrea Kuruc Correspondent

Good News Lions is the Nation & World section’s bi-weekly news segment, highlighting positive news in the country and around the world. The theme of this article is animals’ vital contributions.

Philadelphia Zoo’s Galapagos tortoise hatches four newborns

The Philadelphia Zoo has announced the hatching of four Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoises earlier this week. It marks the first breeding of the species in the zoo’s 150-year history. Philadelphia, in partnership with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan, joins alongside two other United States zoos to successfully hatch a clutch, according to its website.

“This is a significant milestone in the history of Philadelphia Zoo, and we couldn’t be more excited to share this news with our city, region, and the world,” said Jo-Elle Mogerman, Philadelphia Zoo president and CEO. The zoo hopes the milestone will become a testament of the species’ enduring survival, as well as a call for increasing attention to wildlife preservation.

The parents of the hatchlings are female “Mommy” and male “Abrazzo,” according to the Philadelphia Zoo. They are the zoo’s oldest inhabitants, with Mommy being a resident since 1932.

Estimated to be over 100 years old, the birth makes Mommy the oldest first-time mother of her species. While Mommy has laid four rounds of eggs since 2023, this was her first successful delivery, according

to The Smithsonian Magazine

“This is a monumental achievement for our animal care team,” said Lauren Augustine, director of Herpetology and Birds at the Philadelphia Zoo. “[They] worked diligently to provide the right conditions for Mommy to lay her eggs and for the eggs to incubate and successfully hatch.”

Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoises are listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List. In their native habitat of the Galápagos Islands, off the coast of Ecuador, the population has dwindled from 250,000 to a mere 17,000 today, according to the London Zoo.

The species’ decline has been attributed to excessive hunting, as well as the introduction of invasive species, according to LiveScience. These four newborns will add to the 44 Western Santa Cruz tortoises combined in all zoos in the U.S.

“Every additional tortoise counts,” said Juan Manuel Vazquez, a biologist with expertise in Galapagos tortoises, to The New York Times.

Mommy’s age is not the only reason why her birth is significant to the continuation of her species. She is considered to be one of the most genetically valuable tortoises in the AZA SSP, according to Philadelphia Zoo. The addition of her offspring will provide greater gene variability to the managed population.

“Until now, Mommy’s genes were not represented in the AZA population, making these offspring extremely important in the protection of this species,” Augustine said.

In addition to this monumental feat, the zoo hopes these hatchlings will connect visitors with their broader mission of environmental awareness. Vice President

of Animal Well-Being and Conservation Rachel Metz stated, “These hatchlings not only protect the species from extinction, but serve as important ambassadors to inspire guests to save wildlife and wild places.”

The four female hatchlings will be available for viewing starting April 23, according to the Philadelphia Zoo. This will mark Mommy’s 93rd anniversary since arrival. Mommy and Abrazzo are also available to meet in the zoo’s “Behind-theScenes” experience, along with the zoo’s other Giant tortoises.

Cambodian rat aids landmine detection efforts

The new world record for the most landmines sniffed out by a rat has been set, according to the Guiness Book of World Records. Ronin, an African giant pouched rat from Cambodia, has uncovered 109 landmines, as well as 15 other unexploded ordnances, over the course of three and a half years. Ronin has become the first of his kind to beat the 100 mine mark, according to the BBC.

Ronin and other members of the pack work in the Siem Rapp region of northwestern Cambodia. This region, as well as other parts of Cambodia, are recent, former conflict zones. The nation’s participation in the Vietnam War and civil military conflicts have resulted in an estimated four to six million unexploded landmines and other munitions in the country, APOPO writes. Landmine and other explosive remnants of war have resulted in 65,000 casualties since 1979 in Cambodia, according to Landmine and Cluster Munition Monitor.

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Cory Booker sets new record for the longest speech on the Senate floor

The theme of this week’s Good News Lions article is animals’ vital contributions.

Graphic by Sandra Abrantes

Actor Val Kilmer: Remembering a 40 year legacy

By Sky Pinkett Staff Writer

American actor Val Kilmer died of pneumonia on April 1 at the age of 65 in Los Angeles.

This follows Kilmer’s 2015 diagnosis of throat cancer, for which he had to undergo a tracheostomy that affected his ability to talk. This prevented him from being able to act in films for several years and forced him to use a voice box to speak.

Kilmer kept his cancer battle private until 2021, when he shared his various health issues in a documentary titled “Val.” That same year, the actor reported that he was finally cancerfree. It was not disclosed whether his pneumonia was related to his throat cancer.

Various members of Hollywood reacted to news of his death on social media. Actor Josh Brolin shared on Instagram, “You were a smart, challenging, brave, uber-creative firecracker. There’s not a lot left of those.”

Singer and actress Cher, who is also a former girlfriend of Kilmer’s, shared his personality as “funny, crazy…GREAT FRIEND” and “brave” during his illness.

“This man forged through it all and was able to create epic adventures for global audiences,” actor Tom Cruise said to E! News. “You are an artist for all time. You are our modern-day Thalberg.” Irving Thalberg was a famous producer who pioneered the

Ariana Grande releases ‘eternal sunshine’ deluxe album

By Abigail Holliday Staff Writer

Popstar and two-time Grammy winner Ariana Grande released her “eternal sunshine” deluxe album “brighter days ahead” with six new songs on March 28. She partnered the release with a 26-minute short film she co-wrote and directed that acted as six music videos in one as she rewatches the most impactful moments of her life.

“Eternal sunshine” was released on March 8, 2024, as Grande used her album to recount both the busy and messy year she had: privately marrying real estate agent Dalton Gomez and then very publicly divorcing him, starting to shoot “Wicked” and beginning her controversial relationship with Ethan Slater.

The album was named after “Eternal

early years of cinema.

Born on Dec. 31, 1959, Kilmer grew up in Los Angeles and enrolled at Juilliard School in New York City at age 17. His big break came in 1984 with the action comedy movie “Top Secret!”

Kilmer quickly proved his notable comedic timing, a talent he would display even more in later films such as 2010’s “MacGruber” and 2005’s “Kiss Kiss Bang Bang,” the latter of which he starred alongside Robert Downey Jr.

One of Kilmer’s most memorable roles came in 1986 with “Top Gun,” in which he played Tom Cruise’s fighter pilot rival, Iceman. This 80s classic gained a sequel in 2022 with “Top Gun: Maverick,” of which Kilmer made a cameo in a heartfelt scene between him and Cruise’s titular Maverick.

Another critically acclaimed role came in 1991 when Kilmer played Jim Morrison, lead singer of the famous rock n roll band The Doors. The movie, titled after the band, solidified Kilmer’s talented acting while also bringing attention to his successful, yet intense method acting technique.

Kilmer’s style of method acting became especially controversial in

1996’s infamous “The Island of Dr. Moreau,” a film that also starred fellow method actor Marlon Brando. Beyond the film’s many production issues, there was drama among various cast and crew members. According to the BBC, the film’s director, John Frankenheimer, claimed that he would never work with Kilmer again due to his being “difficult on set.”

Despite this intense reputation with method acting, Kilmer was still afforded plenty of major movie roles throughout the 90s, including 1993’s “Tombstone” alongside Kurt Russell and 1995’s “Heat” alongside Al Pacino and Robert De Niro. He also dabbled into the world of voiceacting when he voiced the characters of God and Moses in Dreamworks’ 1998 animated classic “The Prince of Egypt.”

In addition to acting, Kilmer also published two books of poetry, created paintings inspired by his acting roles and was nominated for a Grammy in 2012 for the spoken word album “The Mark of Zorro.”

Reflecting on his career with AP News in 2021, Kilmer said, “I have no regrets. I’ve witnessed and experienced miracles.”

Kilmer is survived by his two children, Mercedes and Jack.

Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,” an early 2000s sci-fi romance by Michel Gondry where the two protagonists undergo a memory-erasing procedure to forget their heartache after a breakup. They wake up with no recollection of their past relationship and yet still find each other at the place where they first met and date again.

“Eternal sunshine” reigned as No. 1 for two weeks on the Billboard 200 album chart with popular songs “yes, and?” and “we can’t be friends (wait for your love).” The album was awarded three Grammy nominations, but did not receive any wins.

Grande released “eternal sunshine (slightly deluxe and also live)” on Oct. 1, 2024, that included live versions of her songs, an acoustic version of “imperfect for you” and features such as Troye Sivan, Mariah Carey and Brandy and Monica.

“Eternal sunshine: brighter days ahead” includes new songs such as “dandelion,” “twilight zone” and “Hampstead.”

“Dandelion,” my personal favorite of her new songs, is a jazzy R&B song that transitions into pop, filled to the brim with flower innuendos. This sultry song plays off of its dandelion namesake, “Boy, just don’t blow this / Got me like, ‘What’s your wish list?’”

“Twilight zone” is her “divorce album” song wrapped in a synth beat and tied up with Grande’s reminiscent lyrics. The song, also a play on her favorite TV show, paints a picture of her mental state after her divorce: confused and mournful but also optimistic about moving on. She sings, “Sometimes I can’t believe you happened / It’s not like I’d ever change a thing / ‘Cause I’m right here, where I’m meant to be.”

Lucy Dacus is honest about love on ‘Forever is a Feeling’

By Ashley Ragone Arts & Entertainment Editor

Following an indefinite hiatus announced last year from supergroup Boygenius, Lucy Dacus is back with her fourth solo studio album, “Forever is a Feeling.”

In a press release from Universal Music, Dacus commented on her album’s bold title. “You can’t actually capture forever… But I think we feel forever in moments. I don’t know how much time I’ve spent in forever, but I know I’ve visited.” The 13-track record is beautifully introspective, combining melancholic guitar with carefully crafted lyricism, no single moment coming across as filler.

The first track, “Calliope Prelude,” presents an instrumental of mournful strings and harp. Dacus first teased the prelude and the album’s arrival on Nov. 20 through TikTok, with footage of an art gallery. The album heavily relies on the motif of art; the cover is an oil painting of Dacus, additionally touring the unreleased music through various museums and churches this past February.

As described by Dacus to NPR, “I was just thinking about how most art through time has been motivated by love, so it’s not like it’s new material. So while I was recording, I was just thinking about antiquity, both sonically and visually.”

“Ankles,” the first single off the album, sees Dacus exploring a forbidden romance, the adrenaline rush of misbehaving. She muses on the shared intimacy she wishes to experience, both physical touch and genuine emotional connection, through “crossword[s] in the mornings.” The accompanying music video follows Dacus, a classical painting come to life, as she is followed by her protective museum guard.

“Modigliani” references the Italian artist of the same name, notable for his style of long, almond-shaped faces in paintings. The song is also a love letter to her band-

mate and close friend, indie singer Phoebe Bridgers. Dacus reminisces on the time differences they would experience while on solo album tours, where Bridgers would make her “homesick for places [she had] never been before,” and how Dacus will never find her famous or intimidating as she proudly stands by her as a friend.

We see a change in tone through “Talk,” with a darker melody and the disintegration of love. Dacus and her partner have run out of conversation, watching the sunset while also witnessing the end of their relationship. Although Dacus wants to go back, she knows she must talk in past tense when she wonders, “Why can’t we talk anymore?”

A bittersweet sentiment is maintained through track seven, “For Keeps.” As she thinks about all the admirable traits of her partner and the meaningful moments of their time together, she also grieves for the future. She recognizes that they exist in a state of limbo, not working toward a place of permanence. As she worships even the smallest details, she also knows they will not always stick around. Read

Photo courtesy of IMDb Kilmer starred in notable movies including “Top Gun” and “Batman Forever.”

Photo courtesy of Apple Music

Dacus released her fourth album “Forever is a Feeling” on March 28.

Photo courtesy of IMDb

Ariana Grande released six new songs on the deluxe album.

Baseball goes 3-1 in promising week of conference play

Photo by Elizabeth Gladstone

creating a three-run deficit. Senior Andrew Fernandez would cut into the lead with an RBI double in the fifth inning before Goodall would give the Lions the lead again in the sixth inning with a three-run home run. This would be Goodall’s 29th career home run, moving him to third all-time at the College.

Rutgers-Camden would answer in the bottom of the sixth, putting up a single run to tie the game. With a two-run single in the bottom of the seventh, the Scarlet Raptors would take the final lead of the game on a two-out RBI single.

Saturday, April 5 saw the College face off against yet another Rutgers team, this time Rutgers-Newark, in a doubleheader. The first game of the day saw the Lions take a controlling lead in the first inning, and there was no looking back from there.

dominant on the mound, allowing only one baserunner through the first four innings. Rutgers-Newark would break the tension in the fifth, scoring with a two-run single.

The College managed to put runners in scoring position in the sixth, seventh and eighth innings, yet they were not able to capitalize on this, entering the ninth trailing. With the game on the line, Fernandez took the reins, hitting a triple to lead off the inning. During the next at-bat, Fernandez would score on a wild pitch, tying the game and sending the Lions to extras for the first time this season.

By Jhett Laurie Staff Writer

The College’s baseball team took on both Rutgers satellite campuses in what turned out to be a promising week for the Lions’ conference play. A late-game surge pushed the College past RutgersCamden on Thursday, April 3, giving them a massive win over a strong team to start the week.

Rutgers-Camden would take a 3-1 lead midway through the game before the Lions’ offense would awaken in the sixth inning. On an attempted pick-off with the bases loaded and two outs, the Lions would capitalize on a throwing error by the Scarlet Raptors’ pitcher, bringing home a run.

Rutgers-Camden would then pad their lead on a throwing error in the top of the seventh, making the score 4-2. However, this would not prove to be enough for a hungry Lions offense. Recording his third hit of the day, senior Mike LaGravenis would reach on a single after recording two doubles on the day.

Fifth-year Gianni Marano would then step up to the plate to cut away at

Rutgers-Camden’s lead, and he would do just that. Marano would record his third home run of the season, tying the game in the seventh at four.

Sophomore pitcher Evan Frank would throw a decisive 2.1 innings to close out the game, allowing zero hits and two walks, earning a win on the day. Fifthyear Ryan Goodall would give the Lions the lead in the bottom of the eighth, hammering the first pitch of the inning over the trees in center field. Goodall tallied his 28th career home run, bringing him to fifth all-time in Lions baseball history. LaGravenis tallied his 150th career run scored during this game as well.

The Lions then traveled to Camden the next day to face off against RutgersCamden for the second and final game of the series. Marano would open the scoring in the first inning with a two-run home run to give the Lions an early 2-0 lead. Rutgers-Camden would then chip away at the Lions’ lead through the first and second innings, with five hits bringing across four runs to make the score 4-2.

Rutgers-Camden would add insurance in the fourth with a solo home run,

After strong discipline allowed the Lions to load the bases off walks, senior Justin Marcario drew the fourth walk in a row to bring home the first run of the game. Goodall would crush a grand slam, bringing home four runs and tallying his 30th career home run.

Marcario, along with Goodall, would do a lot of the heavy lifting through the first five innings, bringing home four of the Lions’ nine runs on two hits and a walk. Already holding a 9-1 lead in the sixth, the Lions offense did not let up, tallying eight runs on five hits, including sophomore Jake Carter’s first career triple.

Carter would record a career-high four hits in the game. Sixth-year Ben Amon would record six innings pitched and eight strikeouts during his outing. This would be Amon’s 20th career win. The Lions would win 20-2.

The second game was a much closer contest, with the Lions squeaking out a win in extra innings. The first two innings were rather quiet, with no hits recorded. The College struck first in the top of the third, with Marano scoring LaGravenis on a single.

More quiet innings ensued as the Lions struggled to score any insurance runs. Senior pitcher Jackson Malouf was

The added pressure was no sweat for pitcher Evan Frank, as he locked down Rutgers-Newark’s offense, letting up only one hit. Frank would also come up clutch in the 11th inning, drawing a walk in a messy situation that saw the pitcher step in the batter’s box. His walk seemed to be the spark for the Lions’ offense, as a single and two more walks saw them take the lead that inning.

Goodall would strike yet again as he cleared the bases with a three-RBI double, bringing his total RBIs on the week to 12. The four-run deficit would be too much for Rutgers-Newark to overcome, and the College would win 6-4.

Goodall received baseball Player of the Week nods from the New Jersey Athletic Conference after going 5-9 with three home runs and 12 RBIs. He also was named to the D3Baseball Team of the Week at the catcher position.

Malouf would throw nine strong innings, striking out 12 batters and allowing only two runs. He currently sits at a 1.33 ERA on the season. Malouf also tallied his 200th career strikeout in this game. The Lions moved to 16-8 on the year and 5-1 in the conference. As of April 8, they sit at third behind No. 11 Kean and Montclair State. The Lions will make their yearly trip to Trenton Thunder Stadium on April 10 at 6 p.m. They will face a young Stockton team and look to stay hot in the conference.

Women’s tennis earns NJAC regular season title

By Tyler Morello Staff Writer

The College’s women’s tennis team clinched the top spot in the New Jersey Athletic Conference as they improved to 4-0 in conference play while also picking up some out-ofconference wins over the weekend.

Before rattling off a four-game win streak, they faced No. 58 Haverford College on Thursday, April 3, and came up just short, losing 4-3.

The Lions got off to a great start, sweeping the doubles matches and winning all three relatively comfortably. The duos of sophomore Zoey Albert and freshman Shruti Mannan, and senior Aira Abalos and freshman Anusha Perinkolam were each victorious 6-3. Freshman Elizabeth Ring and sophomore Gabriella Robinson won 6-2.

Despite controlling the doubles matches, the Lions were only able to grab two wins in singles play, as Robinson and freshman Gabrielle Brideau came away with wins in their matches.

After losing tightly to a talented Haverford squad, the Lions answered with four straight victories with a combined score of 28-0.

Beginning their busy weekend was a conference match against Stockton University at the College’s

Rec Center on Saturday, April 5.

The Lions handed the Ospreys a statement 7-0 win with none of the matches being too difficult for the College.

The Lions dominated the Ospreys, who were short-handed with only five players, leading to forfeits at No. 3 doubles and No. 6 singles.

The College capitalized, dropping only one game across the doubles matches and a total of three in the singles matches.

In singles play, Mannan, Ring and Robinson all shut out their opponents

en route to 6-0 wins in two sets.

This victory secured the New Jersey Athletic Conference regularseason championship for the College as Stockton was fighting for first place as well.

The following day, the Lions played a doubleheader against No. 60 SUNY New Paltz and Drew University, winning both contests 7-0.

The College faced some adversity against New Paltz, as the matches did not come as easy as they did against Stockton. Albert and Mannan

showed grit in their doubles match, winning 7-6 and 7-5 in the tiebreaker set.

Abalos and Perinkolam won 6-4 in a back-and-forth match, while Ring and Robinson were able to control their match in a 6-3 triumph.

The Lions had only one singles match get closer than an 8-4 defeat as Ring put together a tough fight in her match, winning 8-7 and 7-3 in the tiebreaker.

The College’s matchup against Drew came much easier for the Lions. None of the doubles matches finished tighter than a 6-3 win in favor of the Lions, and the closest margin of victory in the singles matches was Albert winning 8-3. Their other New Jersey Athletic Conference match was on Wednesday, April 9, against William Paterson University, who was no match for the overpowering Lions. They won 7-0 and did not drop a single game in any of the matches. There are a few more matches left before the New Jersey Athletic Conference Tournament begins, so the Lions will have the opportunity to refine their skills in time for the playoffs. They have a key matchup on Saturday, April 12, against No. 36 University of Rochester, which should prove to be a mighty test for the College, which is currently ranked No. 66.

The Lions have been performing well in the NJAC.

Photo courtesy of Jimmy Alagna

The Lions have won the NJAC regular season title, giving them the top seed in the NJAC tournament.

Lions Heating Up

Softball wins three out of four NJAC games

By Joseph Caruso Staff Writer

The College’s softball team racked up three wins last week, sweeping their home doubleheader against Stockton and splitting the series on the road at Kean.

On Tuesday, April 1, the Lions hosted Stockton, marking their ninth and tenth consecutive home games. They went 6-4 in that span, bringing their home record to

above .500 in the season.

In the opening game of the doubleheader, sophomore Maya Knasiak got the start and limited Stockton to just one earned run on three hits, striking out nine in the process. Junior outfielder Morgan Estelow scored two unearned runs, including coming home on a walkoff error committed by the Ospreys in the bottom of the seventh, resulting in a 3-2 Lions win.

Knasiak was named New Jersey Athletic Conference pitcher of the week for the second time this season. Her stellar sophomore campaign has included her leading the College in innings pitched (74.0), earned run average (2.08) and wins (9). Knasiak’s complete-game shutout against Kean on Friday was her fourth of the season.

The latter half of the doubleheader saw the College quickly fall behind 3-0 in the

top of the first, but they responded with two runs of their own in the bottom of the inning. From that point, junior Elizabeth Gosse steadied the ship until the College took the lead on an RBI single from fifthyear outfielder Kaci Neveling. It was a huge day for the leadoff hitter, reaching base in all four of her plate appearances. Stockton homered in the top of the seventh inning to tie the game up at five, forcing extra innings. In the bottom of the eighth, sophomore Amelia Santos delivered with a pinch-hit walk-off single, resulting in the second walk-off of the day for the Lions, who were able to sweep the doubleheader for just the second time this season. Gosse earned her third win of the year, continuing her streak of eight straight games allowing three runs or less.

On Friday, April 4, the Lions traveled to Kean to take on the Panthers, with each team having 11 wins going into the matchup. For the first game, it was a masterclass by Knasiak, who allowed just one hit in a complete-game shutout while striking out six. Fifth-year infielder Julia Kinnally collected her 200th career hit when she homered in the top of the fourth inning to give the Lions a 1-0 lead and also scored a run on an RBI single from sophomore catcher Sara Vincent. Knasiak shut the door in the seventh inning, earning her ninth win of the season in a 3-0 shutout.

Gosse took the mound for the nightcap but struggled against the desperate Panthers lineup, allowing five runs in 3.2 innings. The Lions proved resilient, loading the bases in the top of the sixth and scoring three runs, including a tworun single from Vincent. However, Kean held on, and the comeback from the College fell short as their three-game win streak came to an end by a score of 5-3.

The College now sits fourth in the NJAC, with a 4-2 conference record and 12-12 overall.

Swimming and diving dominates NJAC postseason awards

By Olivia Trasser Staff Writer

The College’s men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams made waves this postseason, earning a handful of accolades from the New Jersey Athletic Conference, with the men’s team sweeping all four major awards and the women’s dive team having standout performances as well.

The College’s men’s swimming and diving team dominated the NJAC honors, with an astonishing 16 studentathletes earning All-Conference recognition. Out of those 16, four of the athletes took home the league’s four major awards. Senior Ryan Higgins was named Swimmer of the Year after an exceptional season with four AllAmerican performances at the NCAA Championships, bringing his career total to seven. At the NJAC Championship meet, Higgins claimed titles in the 200yard backstroke, 200-yard individual medley and 400-yard individual medley.

On the other end of the pool, in the diving well, senior Ethan Weiss continued his storied career by being named Diver of the Year for the third time. Weiss joined Lions legend TJ Burns as the only two athletes in program history to achieve this accomplishment. Weiss secured a first-place finish in the 1-meter and second in the 3-meter competitions at NJACs. Weiss then went on to NCAA Regionals, where he placed sixth in both events.

Sophomore standout swimmer

Steven Bendoraitis earned Rookie of the Year honors, becoming the fifth Lion in the last six years to claim the title. He placed first in the 1650-yard freestyle at the conference meet and added Second Team All-American finishes in the 500-yard freestyle and as a member of the 800-yard freestyle relay team at NCAAs.

Leading the program to another stellar season, the coaching staff of Dave Dow, Eric Blevins, Webster Bozzo and Steven Paterno was recognized as the Coaching Staff of the Year for the fourth time in five years. The coaches collectively guided the Lions to their second straight NJAC team title and a 17th-place finish at the NCAA Championships.

Several other Lions also earned top honors for their efforts. Senior Ryan VanDeVeen received a First Team selection in both breaststroke events, the 100-yard and 200-yard, while freshman M.J. Hoban earned First Team in the 50-yard freestyle. Freshman Joe McChesney was named First Team in the 100-yard butterfly after a strong championship meet performance.

Additionally, junior Gavin Formon, junior Andrew Kidchob, senior Andrew Walter, senior Shawn Kushner, sophomore Pablo Salazar, freshman Tyler McGeehan and senior Michael Wu received All-Conference honors across a variety of individual events, showcasing the team’s impressive depth and versatility.

The Lions cleaned up the NJAC awards, celebrating their wonderful season.

The Lion’s relay dominance was also on full display this season, earning First Team All-NJAC accolades in the 200yard freestyle, 200-yard medley and 400-yard medley relays, with a Second Team nod in the 800-yard freestyle relay.

For the Lady Lions, junior diver Beth Evaldi was once again a standout performer, repeating as Diver of the Year after taking home her second straight 3-meter title and first-ever 1-meter title. Evaldi, now a six-time NJAC medalist, has solidified herself as one of the top divers in program history.

Fellow junior Melody Lin claimed

Second Team honors in both diving events, finishing runner-up to Evaldi in both. Lin’s continued improvement over the past two seasons has now earned her All-Conference recognition three times.

Senior Erin Sommers rounded out the Lions’ honors, finishing third in the 3-meter dive to earn Honorable Mention recognition in her final collegiate season and help the Lions complete a sweep of the podium.

With a blend of veteran leadership and emerging stars, both of the College’s squads have plenty to be proud of as they close out a remarkable 2024–25 season.

Photo by Andre Paras

The Lions have turned a corner in the NJAC.

Photo by Elizabeth Gladstone