Issue No. 9 Spring '25 by TCNJ Signal

The Signal

TCNJ College Republicans’ GroupMe messages spark conversations about free speech

Photo by Andre Paras

Messages sent in the College’s Republicans GroupMe chat sparked conversation.

By Isabella Darcy and Aidan Mastandrea Managing Editor and News Editor

Freedom of speech has been a talking point at the College since Feb. 7 when The Signal published an editorial that raised concerns over the TCNJ College Republicans’ repeated use of antisemitic, racist, homophobic and transphobic rhetoric directed at other students in their recognized student organization GroupMe. The editorial posed the question: When is hate speech severe enough for the College to take action against it?

President Michael Bernstein answered this question in a letter to the editor on Feb. 11 by citing United States

Supreme Court case Davis v. Monroe County Board of Education, which ruled that offensive speech is not grounds for a school to take formal action against those saying it except in extreme cases.

“To be actionable, the conduct or speech must be ‘so severe, pervasive, and objectionably offensive that it can be said to deprive the victims of access to the educational opportunities or benefits provided by the school,’” Bernstein wrote in the letter.

Messages in the TCNJ College Republicans’ GroupMe chat disproportionately targeted members of PRISM, the College’s oldest gender and sexuality alliance. One PRISM member was called a “thing,” another

What’s to come from Student Gov. executives

By Raeanne Raccagno Copy Editor

Student Government Executive President

Jared Williams and Executive Vice President Trish Le suit up every day before stepping on their home court, the College. They don’t worry about flaunting last names on their backs, but instead repping their SG gear. They want their initiatives to last longer on campus than their titles. For them, scoring points means advocating for students, making positive changes and starting legacies at the College.

Williams, a senior political science major, and Le, a senior history secondary and special education major, spoke with The Signal last spring to discuss goals for their term. After conquering some in the fall, they have set new ambitions for the spring semester as they both prepare to say goodbye to their time in SG. As the two officers have climbed the governmental ladder, they have become great friends, enhancing their ability to put numbers on the scoreboard for students.

“LeBron and D-Wade won multiple rings together, they got a lot accomplished together and I think that that’s what Trish and I were able to do,” Williams said. “I think that oftentimes people in the past have wondered what SG does or what SG can accomplish. But I think within just one semester, Trish and I were able to accomplish so much with

the dining expansions, with a homecoming dance and the student section. And I think that those are kind of our championship rings.”

The dynamic duo has fixed the accessibility doors on campus, expanded dining options, obtained a student section for basketball games, pressed for solutions to parking issues and course registration, and attempted to start a new tradition with the first homecoming dance at the College. The two were also elected to the Homecoming Court by the student body, and Williams was crowned king.

see STUDENT GOV. page 5

was accused of pedophilia on the basis that they are a queer studies minor and many more were attacked because of their identities.

Nobody from the College’s administration spoke with any member of PRISM about how their education was impacted last semester when PRISM was made aware of what the TCNJ College Republicans were saying about them, Mac Ziminski, a junior clinical psychology major and current president of PRISM, told The Signal.

“In President Bernstein’s statement of finding that there wasn’t an impact to education from this, I would like to say that is inherently false,” Ziminski said.

When PRISM found out about the GroupMe messages last semester, many members of the organization took time away from their studies to deal with the situation. Ziminski, a high-achieving student who has made the Dean’s List every semester, said focusing on classes and homework was much harder afterwards.

Two of The Signal’s editors were also targets of hateful messages sent in the TCNJ College Republicans’ GroupMe chat.

Both The Signal and multiple members of PRISM filed bias reports about what was said in the GroupMe chat. In doing so, they triggered investigations through the Office Student Conduct into

Schools

By Eddie Young Sports Editor

The College’s men’s swimming and diving team successfully defended their New Jersey Athletic Conference title by putting in a dominant performance in the NJAC Championships from Feb. 13-16. They won 12 total events on the weekend, and finished with 1,714 points, far ahead of the United States Merchant Marine Academy, who finished in second with 1,190 points. The Lions have won both men’s swimming and diving NJAC championships, as this is only the second time the conference has held this tournament.

Senior Ryan Higgins was the biggest star of the weekend for the Lions, as he took home three individual titles. He won his third consecutive conference title in the 200-yard individual medley, getting out to an early lead in that final and winning with a time of 1:48.63.

Higgins also three-peated in the 200yard backstroke, winning this event in assertive fashion, beating second place by four seconds.

He took his final title in the 400yard individual medley, winning it for the second year in a row. He was also dominant in this event, winning by almost four seconds once again. See SPEECH page 2

across the country given two weeks to eliminate race-based programs

By Tristan Weisenbach Editor-in-Chief

In a letter sent to all schools on Friday, Feb. 14, the Education Department warned of a two-week deadline for schools to eliminate any race-based programs or face the possibility of losing federal funding, according to The New York Times.

The letter states that any programs included in hiring, scholarships, administrative support or “all other aspects of student, academic and campus life” that incorporate race in any way must be eliminated.

“We have received the letter and are aware of the Department of Education’s guidance,” said Luke Sacks, the College’s head media relations officer. He said the College is awaiting promised further clarification from the ED about this new policy implementation.

The College receives federal funding largely for faculty research grants and Pell grants, according to Sacks. However, he stressed that this funding is not immediately jeopardized, and that this situation is subject to change upon further clarification from the ED.

In explaining the rationale for the policy, the letter critiqued the content and goals of programs such as diversity, equity and inclusion, claiming that they “frequently preference certain racial groups and teach students that certain racial groups bear unique

moral burdens that others do not. Such programs stigmatize students who belong to particular racial groups based on crude racial stereotypes.”

It is unclear at this time what programs at the College could be impacted by the letter’s policy, should it be fully enforced by the Trump administration.

Education experts have raised concerns on the impact that this policy — which applies to all preschool, elementary, secondary and postsecondary educational institutions that received ED funding — could have on educational programs in schools across the country.

“We don’t agree with the conclusions they’re drawing and we’re not sure a lot of courts will agree with the conclusions they’re drawing,” Jon Fansmith, senior vice president for government relations and national engagement at the American Council on Education, told Inside Higher Ed. “This idea that anything that speaks to diversity is somehow discriminatory is very, very far out of the norm and very much outside of the law.”

According to Inside Higher Ed, many of the Trump administration’s previous executive orders and policy memos have been challenged in court.

The ED letter states that compliance on eliminating race-based programs is set to be enforced on Feb. 28.

NATION & WORLD page 11

Trump data purge

Trump’s recent executive order on DEI has led to the removal of web pages with critical information.

Photo by Raeanne Raccagno

The duo reflect on their friendship.

SPEECH / Campus community reacts

Continued from page 1

Twenty-four alumni co-wrote a letter to the editor condemning hate speech and extending support to those targeted.

Monmouth University’s student newspaper, The Outlook, also contacted The Signal because a number of students from their institution were responsible for some of the hateful messages that were sent in the TCNJ College Republicans GroupMe chat — even though Monmouth students are not officially a part of the College’s RSO.

President of Monmouth University College Republicans Giavanna Cangialosi told The Signal she believes the messages sent in the TCNJ College Republicans’ GroupMe chat are “radical, hateful and offensive,” and “do not represent [the Monmouth] organization’s values, mission or views.” Monmouth students who sent some of the hateful messages were “immediately” removed from the GroupMe chat, according to Cangialosi.

“As a club, we uphold a zero-tolerance policy for hate speech, discrimination and harassment, even if we have no influence over an individual’s personal opinions or speech,” Cangialosi told The Signal in an email statement. “We acknowledge and understand the concerns that this situation has caused, and we want to reassure everyone that we are taking this seriously and will continue to do so in a private manner.”

Chairman of the TCNJ College Republicans John Rendzia declined The Signal’s request for an interview, but condemned statements made in the GroupMe chat in an email statement, calling them “disgusting” and “disturbing.”

“I fully acknowledge the outrage and the disappointment that a majority of the student body has at this point, and I do not fault anybody who may have spoken out against the organization,” Rendzia wrote.

The TCNJ College Republicans chairman expressed difficulties he faced as he tried to supervise the conversations happening in his organization’s GroupMe chat.

“As the chairman of an organization that had nearly 200 members at its peak…the length of my ability to control and monitor what is being said, when it is being said, is genuinely impossible, and I believe the same holds for many of the members on my executive board,” Rendzia wrote.

That sentiment was not shared by the leadership of PRISM, whose executive board shares responsibility for moderating its group chats.

“These are all just things you have to do as president, and if you can’t do them all the time by yourself, that’s okay, but you have to ask for help,” said Ziminski.

Jacky Bruno, a Monmouth University student and chairman of the New Jersey Federation of College Republicans, also declined The Signal’s request for an interview, and instead emailed a statement.

“I will address it in the case of the antisemitic comments. Those were handled rather quickly, internally, and led to the separation of the member who made them,” wrote Bruno.

Neither Rendzia nor Bruno touched on comments made toward the LGBTQ+ community in their statements.

The NJFCR chairman believes that these circumstances don’t stray far from normal political discourse.

“People from the left and the right sides of the aisle say things that I constantly disagree with or may be offended by,” wrote Bruno. “However, I’m not one to cut someone out of my life, or organization for things they say, other than in extreme circumstances.”

Despite the affiliation of the TCNJ College Republicans, PRISM leadership does not view this situation as a political one.

“It’s not about the Republicans, it’s about bigotry, and bigotry can come from anyone” said junior biology major and PRISM’s public relations chair, who goes by Neil.

Ziminski agreed, adding that PRISM does not have an issue with the TCNJ College Republicans existing on campus. However, they were bothered by the RSO “saying these things unprovoked when we have said nothing to them.”

What both PRISM and the TCNJ College Republicans agree upon is that there needs to be education for those whose actions or speech harmed others.

“I think the most important thing is education, because punishment just makes people bitter and makes them not want to learn,” said Neil. “You have to understand queer history and why what you’re saying is wrong is the most important thing.”

Rendzia also hopes that this situation couldd lead to a better understanding of what PRISM does within the College community.

“I do not think that one controversial statement should lead to a person being ostracized, but should rather be used in a manner to educate and to prevent future occurrences from happening,” Rendzia wrote.

Jordan Richman, director of Student Conduct and Off-Campus Services, told The Signal in an email statement that Student Conduct “prioritizes education and restorative approaches to address concerns, promote accountability, and support affected individuals.”

Student Conduct could not comment on The Signal’s or PRISM’s cases “as a matter of practice and in compliance with federal privacy laws,” Richman wrote.

As stated in Bernstein’s letter, the College disavows the hateful messages sent by members of the TCNJ College Republicans. Bernstein himself “found the comments to be abhorrent and wholly inconsistent with the College’s values,” and believes the majority of the community would agree.

“Just because a school may not discipline students for engaging in obnoxious or offensive speech, does not mean it cannot take other actions, including denouncing the offending speech, providing support and resources to students and others who have been affected by it, and offering forums for the community to engage with alternative viewpoints,” Bernstein wrote. “All of this, TCNJ can and does do.”

This story was produced in collaboration with The Outlook at Monmouth University.

In memory of Joan Banket: Over two decades at the College

By Adamarie Tait Correspondent

For over 27 years, Joan Banket worked at the College in the Office of Student Financial Services. Throughout the years, she created a positive environment among her colleagues in the offices of Green Hall. Surrounded by loved ones, Banket died on Feb. 5

As an information specialist, Banket helped many students at the College through the challenges of the financial aid process. Banket was well respected and admired by her colleagues. She was featured as one of the College’s 2017 President’s Dinner Honorees for her 20th anniversary as a staff member at the College.

Banket is described as a wonderful individual and a cherished member of the campus community. She showed immense kindness and care to her colleagues, as well as the students and families she worked with.

Right before her passing, Banket celebrated her 88th birthday. She was born on Feb. 2, 1937, in Shenandoah, Pennsylvania. There, Banket was said to have built a life with principles of strength,

love and devotion to family.

Before joining the College’s staff and community, she previously worked as a bank manager for Old Borough Savings and Loan. Banket recently resided in Ewing Township where she was always surrounded by family and loved ones.

With much devotion, she truly loved being with her family. Her legacy lives as a proud and loving mother of four, as well as a grandmother to eight grandchildren and greatgrandmother to eight.

Joan was said to have many hobbies. She is described in her obituary as a knowledgeable individual who loves a good challenge. Family and colleagues have stated that she could always be seen doing crossword puzzles — even the most difficult ones — and was said to be extremely talented at them. Banket was also said to always have a book in her hand, a true story lover and enthusiastic reader.

Banket did not only enjoy expanding her knowledge with indoor activities but also enjoyed many outdoor activities. She is said to have loved the beach and

spending time by the pool. When she was younger, she also enjoyed traveling with her husband, creating lifelong memories.

On Feb. 12, Banket’s life was honored with a memorial service at Wilson-Apple Funeral Home, and was surrounded by her family, friends and colleagues. Banket was laid to rest in Washington Crossing National Cemetery, about two hours away from where she grew up.

Banket was clearly a truly

remarkable and respected person. With much love for her family and her kindness for others, she will truly be missed. Most importantly, her life will always be cherished. Her many years of service at the College will never be forgotten. As the College’s Associate Vice President for Communications, Marketing and Brand Management, David Muha, stated in a campuswide email, “She will be missed by all who had the pleasure to work with her on campus.”

Banket was laid to rest in Washington Crossing National Cemetery.

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Inaugural ARC week coming to TCNJ in March

Raeanne Raccagno Copy Editor

The Accessibility Resource Center is debuting its first ARC week on campus to increase respect and understanding for navigating education, community and careers with a disability from March 10-14. ARC was established alongside the Americans with Disability Act of 1990 and has gone through many names at the College, but its mission has remained strong in serving students. The center is known for heightening disability as a component of diversity

Photo by Erin Reilly

while having a core of social justice through a joint effort.

“ARC is a part of this institution that is utilized through and through. … But I think sometimes misunderstood, and I don’t think that individuals understand the capacity and the complexities that ARC sees on a day-to-day basis,” Tacquice Wiggan Davis, vice president for inclusive excellence, said.

The week will hold panel discussions from students and staff with disabilities, walkthroughs of assistive technologies like Glean and Accommodate, workshops on learning

styles and simulations of different disabilities.

Glean is a new artificial intelligence technology that can help those with disabilities in various ways. For those who have trouble writing, Glean can record a lecture and transcribe notes, and it can also give closed captions in real-time to people who are deaf or hard of hearing.

The assistive technology can be used by anyone, and the staff anticipates a lot of people using the application. Glean can be used on a computer or is available as an app.

Milan Dargan, a sophomore accounting major and student worker for Davis, has been researching, as part of the ARC planning week committee, to help organize the simulations. One demonstration will have students write the alphabet with their non-dominant hand, helping them gain some insight into what daily life is like for those who struggle with writing legibility.

“I value diversity and inclusion,” Dargan said. “The aura of [ARC] and the people, the support, it just ensures that everyone feels supported and lets them know that they matter too.”

Last semester, the Division of Inclusive Excellence put together the Social Action Summit where Kartika Kumari, a learning support specialist, gave a presentation on neurodivergence. The presentation was for students and staff, teaching about how to better support students and what neurodivergent students may experience in the classroom.

Currently, ARC supports around 1,500 students, but Davis said it’s a

TCNJ alum Jacqueline C. Romero resigns as US attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania

By Rebecca Heath Features Editor

Jacqueline C. Romero ‘93 announced her resignation as the U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania on Monday, Feb. 17. Romero was appointed to the role by former President Joe Biden in 2022 following a tenure as assistant U.S. attorney for the EDPA. She was the first woman of color and LGBTQ+ individual to hold the title.

The chief federal law enforcement officer oversaw one of the largest districts in the nation in her capacity. Romero focused on the prosecution of violent crime, fraud and civil rights violations, as well as anti-crime efforts and community engagement during her tenure.

“When I came here, almost 20

years ago now, it was to do the job, to be a prosecutor. I didn’t come here for a title,” Romero said in a press release. “But it has been the absolute honor of my life to hold this title of U.S. Attorney.”

Romero received her bachelor of arts in English and political science at the College. As a first-generation student “unsure of [herself] in so many ways,” she credits the mentorship she received from former Vice President of Academic Affairs Claire Hardgrove and professor of journalism Kim Pearson with shaping her career path.

Romero went on to pursue her J.D. from Rutgers Law School, where she graduated in 1996. She kick-started her federal career while serving as an attorney for the Department of Justice in 1998, and later served as senior counsel for the U.S. Mint. Romero then spent 16 years serving as the assistant U.S. attorney of the Philadelphia region, which led to her 2022 appointment as U.S. Attorney for the district.

“I am most proud of our community engagement efforts — not ‘outreach,’ which tends to be a one and done effort, but true community engagement, which requires consistency, being willing to have difficult conversations, being [accountable], being transparent, and making constant efforts to build relationships,” Romero told The Signal. “On a similar note, I’m proud of how we engaged and collaborated with our law enforcement partners. Our relationships have never been better.”

“I said I wanted to be the ‘People’s U.S. Attorney’ — arriving in

“growing population.”

Megan Guiry, director of accessibility resources, said ARC has been receiving incredible feedback from students asking for recommendations on how to make their organizations more accessible for everyone.

Guiry also recommends that recognized student organizations make sure their off-campus events are accessible and said they have campus partners that can help with doing so. If RSOs are having on-campus occasions, they can fill out a form on the ARC website to request an American Sign Language translator.

“One of the biggest things that we’ve been focusing on as a team just in general is getting our faces out there and making sure that departments, students [and] offices know who to reach out to if there ever is a need,” Guiry said.

Five full-time staff members were added to the ARC assembly after staffing shortages in 20232024. While young in their roles, the staff has formed a bond through the collaborative work of embracing all students on campus.

“I think I’m the newest hire, and it’s just been incredible,” Kumari said. “It’s getting to learn so many new things, but also really learning from each other and supporting each other.”

The biggest hope the staff has for ARC week is to help bring light to their mission and increase the level of understanding and respect around the College.

neighborhoods and blocks that have rarely seen the Department of Justice as a true partner,” Romero wrote in a post on her LinkedIn page. “I also did my best to set a tone for my law enforcement partners — a tone of collaboration and always doing the right thing for the right reasons, even when it’s not popular. I move on today with my head held high and with faith in the many ethical career prosecutors and leaders I leave behind to carry the torch of justice.”

Romero is one of several U.S. attorneys appointed by Biden who announced their resignation Monday, according to Reuters. Other U.S. attorneys resigned from their positions last week, the outlet reported.

On Feb. 12, the Trump administration sent termination letters to a number of Biden-appointed U.S. attorneys across the nation. President Trump said on Wednesday that he has instructed the Department of Justice to terminate all the remaining U.S. attorneys appointed by Biden, according to Reuters.

While Romero did not share the reason for her resignation, she said “It is customary for U.S. Attorneys to resign at the beginning of a new administration and/or for the President to terminate the relationship and appoint a new U.S. Attorney “

Nelson S.T. Thayer, Jr., the EDPA’s first assistant U.S. attorney, will replace Romero as the district’s chief prosecutor at this time.

When asked about her next steps, Romero said, “the future looks bright, and I am looking forward to the next challenge, whatever form it takes.”

Kari Osmond appointed associate vice president for government and community relations

By Ashley Ragone Arts & Entertainment Editor

Kari Osmond ‘09 was chosen to join the College’s administration as the new associate vice president for government and community relations.

A graduate of the College, Osmond has additionally served under Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman. Since 2021, Osmond has served as a lead strategic advisor, campaign manager and chief of staff under the congresswoman.

In an email sent to the campus community, President Michael Bernstein commented on Osmond’s career experience and commitment to the College.

“Kari has a deep understanding and appreciation of the role TCNJ plays not only for our students but for the state of New Jersey,” Bernstein said. “Her skill set, coupled with her genuine affection for our college and her enthusiastic approach to lobbying, will undoubtedly help us build a coalition to advocate on behalf of TCNJ as we continue to elevate our institutional profile across the state and the nation.”

Osmond shared a statement in response to this appointment.

“As a proud member of TCNJ’s Class of 2009, I am excited for this opportunity,” Osmond said. “I am looking forward to returning to the College in a new capacity to help raise its profile in Trenton and advocate on behalf of our talented students.”

Osmond is set to begin his position at the College on March 24.

The ARC staff is putting the finishing touches on their new event.

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons Romero resigned on Feb. 17.

Cop Shop: Popcorn fires and parking fines

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.

Feb. 5: Medical emergency in Rec Center

At approximately 9:20 p.m., a nonresident of the College reported that a non-resident student had a seizure in the Rec Center. Upon arrival, Campus Police found the student lying on the floor of Court 4. Lions EMS arrived on the scene, and it was determined that the student had tripped over a bag and scraped his face along the court. The fall resulted in rash burns and dried blood on the right side of the student’s face.

The student reported that his seizure lasted approximately one minute and that his right leg was sore from the fall. The student refused medical attention and was escorted home at 10:15 p.m.

Feb 6: Burnt popcorn

Campus Police were dispatched to Ely Hall in report of a fire alarm at 9:28 p.m. Upon arrival, there was no audible alarm or flashing strobes. The alarm panel read a specific room, and after investigating, there was an odor of burnt popcorn. A student informed Campus Police he burnt popcorn in the microwave.

There were no signs of smoke or fire. Ewing Township Fire Department and Prospect Heights Fire Department arrived on the scene. The room was cleared and the alarm was reset without incident.

Feb 6: Don’t forget to hydrate

On a report of a student that fell and hit his head, Campus Police were dispatched to Decker Hall at approximately 10:40 p.m. Upon arrival, Lions EMS was already on scene.

The student informed Lions EMS he had not been drinking water and barely ate. He also disclosed consuming approximately three shots of vodka at around 6 p.m. The student refused medical care and was released. No charges were filed under New Jersey’s Lifeline Amnesty Law..

Feb. 7: Text and tumble

Responding to a medical report at Townhouse South, Campus Police arrived at approximately 10:59 p.m. to find a student standing in the first floor common area. The student was alert and conscious, and stated he believed he fractured his left foot. He reported that he had slipped while walking down

the stairs while on his phone, landing on his left foot and experiencing sharp pain.

Campus Police provided an ice pack, and at 11:14 p.m., Lions EMS assumed patient care. At 11:19 p.m., Capital Health EMS arrived on scene. The student refused further medical assistance.

Feb. 10: Medical emergency in Education Building

During a class in the Education Building, a student experienced a seizure, prompting a call for emergency assistance. By the time Campus Police arrived at approximately 10:20 a.m., the student had recovered and was alert. The Ewing Fire Department responded and an ambulance was dispatched. The student was treated and refused further medical assistance

Feb. 10: Shoulder injury at Fitness Center

Campus Police were dispatched to the Fitness Center at approximately 6:40 p.m. on a report of a female that dislocated her shoulder. Campus Police spoke with the patient, later identified as a non-resident student. She had already popped her shoulder back into place. Ewing EMS responded, met with the patient and advised her that she did not require any further assistance.

Feb. 12: Booted

While conducting parking enforcement in Lot 13, a 2022 black Hyundai Kona with New Jersey registration was found to have three unpaid citations totaling $150, making it bootable. An additional citation was issued for no decal or permit, amounting to $50.

A yellow boot was attached to the driver-side tire and immobilization paperwork was placed on the driverside window. A new citation was also issued for boot removal. In total, the vehicle now had five unpaid citations, amounting to $250.

Feb. 13: Booted again

In the Trenton Hall visitor lot, a white Toyota Corolla with a New Jersey registration was found to have three unpaid citations totalling $150, making it bootable. The three unpaid tickets were verified.

An orange immobilization tag was placed on the driver-side window, along with a yellow boot on the driver’s side wheel. Two additional tickets were placed under the vehicle’s wiper — one for parking in the wrong area and one for the boot being placed — bringing the total to $250 in unpaid citations

Feb. 13: Construction accident

At approximately 12 p.m., Campus Police were dispatched to Forcina

garage on a report of an activated fire alarm. Upon arrival, audible alarms were sounding, and occupants were evacuating. The fire alarm panel indicated an alarm on the third floor, but it did not display a specific location.

An Imperial Construction employee informed Campus Police that a wire had been struck while drilling, which activated the fire alarm. At 12:10 p.m., the Ewing Fire Department arrived and proceeded to the fourth floor where the drilling was being done. Upon checking the hole that was drilled, they observed a slightly cut wire. The Ewing Fire Department confirmed there was no threat to life or property and authorized the alarm reset.

Feb. 13: Careless cooking

After receiving a report of an activated fire alarm at Townhouses East, Campus Police responded at approximately 8:53 p.m. to find strobes and audible alarms activated. While inspecting the buildings, one unit was found to have a light smoke condition and a burnt odor.

The Ewing Fire Department arrived on scene at approximately 9:04 p.m. but could not locate the source of the smoke. By 9:27 p.m., it was determined that the cause of the alarm was careless cooking. TCNJ Prostaff was contacted and informed that the students would need temporary relocation.

Feb. 13: Bad hair day

Responding to a report of an activated fire alarm in Allen, Brewster and Ely Hall, Campus Police arrived at approximately 10:47 p.m. and observed no activated strobes or alarms. The fire alarm panel showed an active alarm for a room in Allen Hall.

Upon making contact with the room’s residents, one student explained that the alarm had been triggered by the use of a hair straightener. No smoke or fire was present. The Ewing Fire Department arrived on scene at approximately 10:51 p.m., and the scene was deemed safe. The alarm was positively reset.

Feb. 14: Disoriented student

At approximately 9:20 p.m., Campus Police were dispatched to Hausdoerffer Hall for a medical call regarding an individual who was reported to be disoriented and having difficulty speaking. Upon arrival, campus police entered the room after the students roommates granted access. The patient was found lying on the floor in the fetal position.

The initial assessment revealed that the patient was alert and breathing, though their breathing was slightly labored. After asking several questions, it became clear that the patient was

struggling to communicate as a result of their ongoing condition.

Campus Police helped the patient into an upright position to assist with the administration of prescribed medication. Lions EMS arrived at 9:29 p.m. and assumed patient care. The patient refused medical assistance and was released.

Feb. 16: Heart attack scare

A report of a student who believed he was having a heart attack led Campus Police to Centennial Hall. Upon arrival, the patient was found walking around, alert and speaking, though showing signs of being highly energized. After being instructed to sit down, the patient was questioned about his condition and confirmed that he was not experiencing pain or difficulty breathing.

Lions EMS arrived on scene at 3:33 a.m. and took over patient care. At 3:48 a.m., the patient was transported to Capital Health Hopewell for further evaluation.

Feb. 16: Trash can strikes

A student reported damage to their vehicle, prompting Campus Police to respond to the area near Yummy Sushi in Campus Town. The student stated that they had parked their car before starting work at approximately 11 a.m and discovered damage to the hood when they returned at 6:30 p.m., which they believed was caused by a trash can. At approximately 7:20 p.m., the Campus Town manager arrived on scene and informed officers that they had already spoken with the student and that Campus Town would be handling the vehicle’s damages.

Feb. 18: Another boot

A gray Volkswagen Golf was identified as bootable in Lot 13 due to three unpaid TCNJ citations totaling $175. The three unpaid tickets were verified, and an orange immobilization tag on the driver’s side window and yellow boot on the driver’s side wheel. Two additional tickets were issued and placed under the wiper — one for not having a decal and another for the boot placement — bringing the total fines to $275.

Feb. 18: One last boot

While conducting parking enforcement in Lot 7, a gray Hyundai Tucson was bootable due to three unpaid citations. The three unpaid tickets were verified, and an orange immobilization tag on the driver’s side window and yellow boot on the driver’s side wheel. Two additional tickets were issued and placed under the wiper — one for not parking in the correct area and another for the boot placement — bringing the total fines to $250.

Photo by Kylie Macallister

Campus Police responded to a call at the Fitness Center on Feb. 10.

Photo courtesy of Erin Reilly

Ewing Fire Department was called after student’s hair straightener caused alarm.

Features

STUDENT GOV. / Williams and Le outline goals for remainder of term

Continued from page 1

Williams and Le previously tried to get a third-party dining location on campus. But after discussing the idea with the College’s administration, they decided it would be too difficult due to branding and costs. So their focus has been expanding current dining choices, like adding strawberry daiquiris and piña coladas to the Traditions menu.

One student brought up the idea of having matcha in the Library Café to Williams, which is something they plan to consider as they continue to work with the College’s dining services team.

Another campaign pledge was having open communication with the student body, and Le hopes the information provided to students is improved by having it reach more people.

“I think we live in a time where we’re really scared of everything we’re hearing, but sometimes those conversations we have one-on-one provide our students relief,” Le said. “I hope that our students can look into more information of the changes happening at the school, to be able to tell the school what it is that we really want with actionable steps, and that’s where Student Gov comes in and I really hope that our students can find us as a resource.”

Williams and Le also have bi-weekly meetings with Vice President of Student Affairs Sean Stallings and President Michael Bernstein to advocate for current issues and initiatives. Williams described Stallings and Bernstein as “very receptive people,” making their meetings enjoyable

and helpful.

In recent meetings with Stallings, Williams and Le have been trying to get additional solar panel tables in Alumni Grove in front of Eickhoff Hall.

As the pair are closing out their term, they are thinking about SG’s internal organization and how they can retain and bring in new members with creative ideas. During their term, they have seen SG’s membership almost double.

“For me, Student Government has defined my TCNJ experience,” Williams said. “Being able to meet great mentors, being able to meet great friends … Trish is one of my best friends on campus.”

“When I came to TCNJ, I knew I wanted to have a long-lasting impact and I wanted to be able to leave the institution better than the way I found it,” he added.

“And I think Student Government is an organization that puts you in a unique position to be able to have a legacy.”

As the SG partners prepare to say goodbye to the College and their roles, they are also gearing up for what’s to come next. As they look to the future, the two also reminisce on the community around them, their friendship and their gratitude for each other.

Williams has been applying to and preparing to attend law school after graduating this May. He has been accepted to the University of Pennsylvania, New York University, the University of Michigan, Rutgers University, Cornell and the University of Virginia.

He intends to take the knowledge he has gained from SG and continue to apply it to law school, through policy advocacy

and representing marginalized communities. After law school, he plans to become an attorney and one day run for office.

Le commented how she will greatly miss Williams and sees him being “so beyond the realm of New Jersey. We hope he remembers us.”

Along with Williams, Le will also miss the multicultural community at the College, which has helped her reflect on her own culture and become more invested in her background. She commended the Black Student Union’s fashion show for how they celebrate everyone and where they come from.

After obtaining her Master’s in special education next academic

year, Le plans to get her doctorate in education at the University of Pennsylvania or Columbia University. She looks forward to working with kids in the future.

As their ventures at the College come to a close, Le and Williams are grateful to the student body for putting them in their executive positions. The two feel confident knowing the budget is continuing to stabilize, and hope the changes they brought to the school will remain to benefit more students.

“We really appreciate [the student body’s] trust and support to be able to represent their interests,” Williams said. “And we really hope that we’ve been able to do that to the liking of the TCNJ community.”

TCNJ intramural is underway with hundreds of student participants

By Aidan Mastandrea News Editor

While there are many dedicated student athletes at the College, a large contingency of the campus community either stopped or never pursued a sport at a high level. Intramural sports at the College creates

an environment for students to compete for fun with their peers. The spring semester of IM sports is already underway and continues to evolve year by year.

In the beginning of the spring semester, intramural activities feature sports such as fiveon-five basketball, indoor

volleyball and billiards, while also including an Ultimate Fighting Championships “pick’Em” group.

According to Shawn Dean, associate director of student life, there are 351 unique participants within IM postregistration for the first batch of activities.

The five-on-five basketball league always draws heavy participation. This semester, there are 280 participants throughout two divisions. Teams with ultra competitive hopes get placed in the “A” league, while others join the “B” league. Teams battle it out weekly at the Recreation Center.

“The competitive spirit is balanced with a sense of camaraderie, making it a fun and lively environment,” said Ryan O’Hara, a student intramural supervisor. “Whether you’re playing or watching, the sense of community and school spirit is noticeable.”

The IM program at the College gives students like O’Hara a chance to work. Dean reports that there are eight student supervisors to go along with 18

student officials.

“All students, faculty and staff may participate in the Intramural Sports program,” the College’s student life website states.

This semester, the IM department will be adding onenight tournaments to their docket of activities. The first of these tournaments will be an indoor “arena football” tournament on Feb. 27 at the Rec Center.

“The atmosphere is friendly and competitive, with an emphasis on teamwork, sportsmanship and having a good time,” said O’hara. “It’s a great way to meet new people, relieve stress and stay connected to the TCNJ community outside of the classroom.”

Students can keep an eye out as the semester progresses for a chance to register for more of IM’s offerings. As the weather gets nicer, students will be able to participate in outdoor soccer, softball, golf and pickleball. There will also be a March Madness bracket group as college basketball season gets in full swing.

Photo by Shawna Dean The College’s co-ed intramural softball team celebrating victory.

Black History Month empowers students on campus

By Nicholas Steinhauser Correspondent

February is Black History Month, which the College is celebrating by holding different events that emphasize the significance of this month for Black history.

“Black history tends to be discussed either infrequently, vaguely or traumatically,” said Jordan Shyi, the director of Intercultural Affairs within the Division of Inclusive Excellence. “It is nice to be able to share in events that highlight the importance of Black history and all the different figures that have been a part of these movements and bring this enthusiasm to the current and future generations of Black generations.”

The Black Student Union has played a major role in planning all of the events this semester, focusing on the importance of Black History Month for everyone, not just Black students on campus. At the same time, they have encouraged students who are engaged in Black culture to truly feel proud

of who they are and their heritage for not just this month, but all year round.

“From the wide variety of events this month, I feel like we are centering on social development, professional development and education, which all tie into our mission to help others realize that Black history is not just for the month of February,” said Naia Moore, a senior psychology major and president of BSU.

BSU decided on the theme for this year’s Black History Month at the College to be Evolution of Black Generations. “With this theme, we are acknowledging the past but also recognizing that we are the future generation,” said Moore. “What we are doing now and what the BSU has done since its establishment in 1981 are all tied together.”

Black History Month is also a time for students on campus to recognize the impacts that Black individuals have made.

“I think so often that our history is pushed aside and not taught in schools, so this month is important for acknowledging that Black

history is American history, and putting an emphasis on the people who fought for us in the past,” Moore said.

Black History Month at the College commenced with the Pan-African Flag Raising Ceremony on Jan. 29, which was organized by BSU.

At this event, senior political science major and Student Government Executive President Jared Williams gave a speech about the importance of recognizing the sacrifices Black individuals have made in the past that have contributed to the freedoms and liberties that Black students on campus have today.

“In my speech, I realized that this was a great way for us to honor what people have done in the past for Black rights while also looking ahead to the future for greater access to opportunities that we have struggled to obtain for so long,” said Williams.

This month also works to empower Black women. On Feb. 11, the Intercultural Center held a screening of the film “Dear America, A Letter from Black Women.”

“The film includes told experiences of Black women’s contributions to political history,” Shyi. said. “This helps to speak about the advocacy and activism work of Black women in American history, which ties into the concept of foundation setting.”

BSU also held its Black Student Panel x BSU Alum Panel on Feb. 12. At this event, five Black alumni from the College and former BSU members and five current students talked about their experiences as people of color and their contributions to the College.

“Being that our theme is Evolution of

Stomp N Shake Lions makes history at TCNJ

By Olivia Consuelo Ramos Correspondent

Stomp N Shake Lions, a school spirit team that performs a cheerleading style derived from Black colleges and universities, became the College’s first Stomp and Shake recognized student organization.

The performance of Stomp and Shake was born during the 1970s in the Southern U.S., according to the nonprofit You Focused in Technique. It is a combination of step dance and cheerleading, which utilizes energetic movements such as foot stomps, full body shaking and powerful cheers to display school spirit.

SNS Lions was originally associated with the Black Student Union. The organization was able

to grow as a club and as a team due to their support from BSU.

“We have to thank BSU for letting us start from where we came from,we have to respect that,” SNS Lions President and Co-Captain Adalmaris Castillo said.

In the spring of 2023, Castillo, a junior interactive multimedia major, founded the first Stomp n Shake club at the College with the help of a faculty advisor and other founding executive board members.

SNS Lions’ first general body meeting for the spring semester was on Feb. 6, and welcomes all students, regardless of experience level, to its meetings.

Zora Allison, a sophomore public health major and the cocaptain and public relations

Black Generations for this month, we wanted to hold this panel to show the impactful legacy that the BSU has had, as well as the overall legacy of the College,” Moore said.

On Feb. 24, BSU will hold a Black Business Pop-Up Shop to showcase small and large Black-owned businesses.

“The Black Business Pop-Up Shop gives Black individuals the opportunity to support Black-owned businesses, which is so important because we want to be able to achieve the same amount of wealth that other other individuals within the country have,” Williams said.

Representation is another important part of Black History Month, and Williams commented how this event promotes Black representation in important fields.

“I think representation is very important,” Williams added. “For Black students to see people who look like them in positions of power is very important because having that representation gives students the idea that they can accomplish their goals too.”

Shyi explained why this month means so much to so many people, and said students should never forget the impact of Black History Month.

“I hope that we as a campus continue to acknowledge the importance of these cultural heritage months because I think it is too easy for these things to just become forgotten,” Shyi said. “These heritage months remind us that we all have had a big helping hand in making America the place that people want to go to for more opportunity, and that is why I think Black History Month is so important.”

coordinator for SNS Lions, spoke to The Signal about the organization’s goals and purpose.

“Our purpose here at TCNJ, I would say, is to bring a new piece of culture to the environment, where people who are interested in this specific style of cheerleading are able to feel included,” Allison said.

SNS Lions partners with other performance clubs at the College. The RSO actively supports and helps create school spirit by performing at events, such as basketball games and at some of the College’s club events. Its upcoming events include the Association of Students for Africa’s Celebrations of Africa and the College’s men’s basketball game, both on Feb. 22.

The organization’s mission is to create a space for people to connect with each other, to be informed of the history behind the performance art and to allow members to embrace individuality of the Stomp and Shake dance.

“When we have those events and when we’re cheering,” Allison said, “It’s not just for the performance aspect but we also want to be sure we’re giving that background information because a lot of people may not know, and that’s perfectly fine, but it’s always a learning experience.”

The team’s current objective is to encourage both current and prospective students to join the club.

“I just want to make sure that whenever I leave here, and whenever the e-board leaves here, the performance team leaves here or the general body leaves at TCNJ, that all of it comes with as much love and appreciation and growth that it possibly can,” Castillo said.

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 eco-friendly.

Topic of the week: Plastic replacements

Hair Stylists! Ditch those small plastic hairbands and start using reusable ones. They’re not so easy to lose and can be found at most convenience stores or Target.

When eating out, bring your own reusable glass containers instead of taking the restaurants’ plastic containers. You’ll be avoiding the possibility of microplastics melting in your meals and decreasing the amount of containers the restaurant has to use.

Buy a reusable cup! It’s a piece of advice that’s been redundantly used for years, but it works. Plus, some coffee shops will give you money off if you bring your own cup.

The plastic grocery bag problem is already solved by living in New Jersey, but when buying produce, you’re still using those little plastic baggies. Buy some reusable ones to decrease usage and limit the risk of your veggies and fruits getting coated in chemicals.

If you need a final push to quit vaping, this is it. Vaporizers are mainly plastics so they’re creating plastic pollution in landfills and you’re inhaling microplastics. Yikes!

The Pan-African Flag Raising Ceremony at the College took place on Jan. 29.

Photo courtesy of Jordan Shyi

Photo courtesy of Adalmaris Castillo Stomp N Shake Lions perform at men’s basketball games.

Social media has a rampant rage bait epidemic

By Lake DiStefano Opinions Editor

It’s a common scene: you’re back from a long day of either school or work, and you just want to scroll mindlessly after having to think all day. You’re excited to just turn off your brain and lose yourself to the tides of endless, yet ultimately mindless, 30-second clips.

While not always an avid scroller, there are days where I too wish to escape the mundane via such apps. Instagram and TikTok are typically my vices of choice in this regard, and I

often enjoy how low stakes the content really is.

I like my social media to be as immaterial and superficial as possible. However, recently, this ritual of induced ignorance has not been as successful. The other day, I started to really take note of a particular bad habit within my algorithm.

Rage bait, posts designed to anger a user with intentionally negative opinions, is common on all social media platforms. It’s a fixture of the algorithm no matter what, as engagement farming is inherently the point from a creator’s perspective. I don’t mind those kinds

DC is overtaking Marvel in popularity

By Matthew Ambrose Correspondent

In the world of comic books, the company with the most daring, exciting ideas usually warrants greater publicity. In 1960, DC Comics first debuted “The Justice League of America,” a new team consisting of beloved, pre-existing DC superheroes. In 1963, Marvel Comics debuted “The Avengers,” a new team consisting of beloved, pre-existing Marvel superheroes.

Marvel and DC have the longest and most famous rivalry in superhero comics history. Over the past two decades, Marvel has been on top thanks to the sweeping success of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, which is an interconnected series of movies featuring overlapping characters and storylines based on Marvel Comics.

DC has been struggling to compete with the MCU for years, but recently the tide seems to be shifting. Popular culture may be growing tired of Marvel, while DC is on the precipice of a promising new universe, conveniently called the DCU.

Prior to the release of “Iron Man” in 2008, Marvel and DC had fairly equal influence in the comic book world. That was until the MCU changed things. Unlike previous comic book superhero movies, the MCU appealed to mass audiences. This was in large part because of the layered storytelling — including the iconic postcredit scenes — and beloved characters who quickly became household names.

Unfortunately, those two traits that used to make the MCU so entertaining are the very areas in which it currently lacks. Recent postcredit scenes set up concepts and mysteries that will likely never be explored, including in “Eternals,” “Doctor Strange In the Multiverse of Madness” and “Shang-Chi.” On top of that, Marvel spent an entire “Ant-Man” movie and two seasons of “Loki” setting up the next

of posts usually, and I tend to scroll past whatever insane take that graces my screen.

That was until recently when I made the apparently fatal mistake of lingering on one such post.

Admittedly, the post had struck a nerve with its stupidity of choice, and I had spent a few extra seconds debating the rhetoric in my head, before eventually remembering the pointlessness of it and scrolling away.

A few extra seconds. That’s all it took for suddenly every video thereafter to be replicas of that particular brand of poor opinion. No matter how fast I scrolled through, they just kept coming.

Now, like any normal person, I simply pressed the button built into the platform to indicate a lack of interest towards the videos. This feature is clearly advertised as a way to curate one’s feed more manually when presented with content they do not wish to interact with.

Except, no matter how many times I press the “not interested” or “reset feed” buttons, my algorithm consistently feeds me that which I do not wish to see. My social media was suddenly and seemingly built to bait.

Now, this is bound to be able to happen, given the nature of how the algorithm tracks engagement time to determine what content to show the user. I acknowledge that.

However, while I’m not cynical enough to outright suggest rage bait is intentionally fed for the sake of retaining engagement time, I am suggesting that whatever features

currently exist to filter what content you see are extremely insufficient.

I suffer this problem on both TikTok and Instagram, with seemingly no reprieve no matter which I chose to entertain myself with. Furthermore, as previously stated, the built-in features didn’t help at all.

Blocking isn’t effective either, as there are an infinite amount of accounts one would need to block to never get presented with a certain strain of rhetoric.

This content lingered in my feed for days after, with only time and consistent scrolling doing anything to reduce the frequency. Even then, every so often the algorithm would spit a rogue video out at me, as if it had remembered that one time I let myself get angry and hesitate.

The only solution I’ve found thus far has been to delete my account and start my algorithm over, with extra attention paid to make sure I don’t fall down such a rabbit hole again. Still, the discontent lingers.

Why is there no way to recover from the mistake of falling for rage bait? Is one’s algorithm doomed? Should they simply let a few seconds lapse?

Regardless, in times such as these where mental health is already fragile, it seems irresponsible to me that there isn’t a way to better detox one’s feed from content that they find uncomfortable.

For many like me, social media can be a much needed reprieve, and its content should be exactly as serious, or casual, as the user wants it to be.

Kendrick Lamar’s Halftime was a statement in history

Avengers-level threat in the form of Kang the Conqueror, a character who they promptly dropped in 2023.

As for characters, they’ve got plenty, but you probably don’t care about any of them. Aside from a couple of standout hits like Kamala Khan from “Ms. Marvel” or Jimmy Woo from “WandaVision,” none of the characters from Phase Four or beyond have received half the praise of any original Avenger.

Due to its confusing long-term plan and a lack of interesting heroes, the MCU has lost many fans over the past four years, and may be approaching its end. Meanwhile, the opposite seems to be happening at DC.

For years after “Iron Man,” Zac Snyder tried to outcompete the MCU with his dark, gritty take on the DC universe. However, his movies failed to ever match the hype of their Marvel counterparts. The only ones that even compared were “Wonder Woman,” directed by Patty Jenkins instead of Snyder, and “Shazam!” which, let’s face it, is practically an MCU film. It was clear that Snyder’s vision was not working.

In 2022, DC decided to change its leadership and instated James Gunn as its new CEO. Gunn had experience with DC, having written and directed “The Suicide Squad” and its spinoff “Peacemaker” in 2021 — the two best projects to come out of DC since “The Dark Knight,” in my opinion. He also had experience with the MCU, as he wrote and directed all three “Guardians of the Galaxy” films.

Gunn declared the official start of his new DCU to be the animated TV series “Creature Commandos,” which just debuted on Max in December. Like Gunn’s previous two projects, it received high critical praise and attracted many fans. Next up is “Superman,” which comes out this July, and based on the trailer, carries that typical Gunn charm.

Tacky fashion is out, and timeless fashion is in

By AJ Mun Correspondent

As we enter the spring of 2025, we are bound to see an influx of fashion trends within the land of social media. However, transitioning into this new fashion season also means that we must remind ourselves that in order for one trend to rise, another must fall. Trends are all fun and games in the moment, but looking back at your Instagram years from now will show you that

timeless fashion is always the way to go. In 2024, the Mob Wife aesthetic rose to prominence, with faux fur coats and pleather galore. While it’s always fun to dress in a vibe other than your day-to-day, fashion should be treated as a beautiful portrait of expression, not a caricature of movie characters long forgotten.

Leathers and furs can always be a fun way to spice up your outfits, but sometimes less is more. What I love

to see in fashion is someone who can notice trends and figure out how to decorate their staples to bring fresh looks to the table. Cookie-cutters can be great, but who really wants to be like everyone else?

Every extreme must also have its less exciting counterpart, and in fashion that is the sleepwear and boxer aesthetic. During the summer of 2024, people ran to their nearest clothing store for boxer shorts to wear with a white tank top and cute baseball cap. While they ran to the nearest store to buy, I ran to my pillow to cry.

One can wear loungewear out and about without being so on the nose. If you wear boxers out in public, please know that it looks exactly like what it is: underwear on the outside. Let’s cover up, shall we?

While some trends were a swing and a miss, there are just some looks that will never leave the public eye for the better. Classic streetwear is a style that just about anyone can make work. Who can go wrong with a graphic T-shirt of something they love and a baggy jean? For the more adventurous, chains, hats, jackets and a great taste in shoes can elevate your outfits from fleeting TikTok hype to Pinterest board inspiration in an instant.

Let us also remember that

monochrome will always be one of the easiest ways to look more put together than the average outfit. From a matching sweat-set to a high fashion business meeting, if you know your colors then you’ll be just fine. We learn colors in preschool, should we not apply our skills to everyday looks? At the end of the day, wear what you want and wear it well. If what you choose to wear is what makes you feel the best, no one can take that from you. It is simply that some trends have a longer lifespan than others. What’s to love about fashion is that it is ever changing. What was popular in 2020 is embarrassing now, and yet what was popular in the 90s is considered excellent taste amongst today’s trends. When choosing your next outfits, I ask for you to weigh the options. Challenge yourself to wonder if what you’re wearing is truly a representation of timeless style — style that could precede your generation and still be admired by younger generations to come — or if your choices are best fit for society and pop culture at the moment. Is it just another piece of tacky fast fashion that will collect dust in your drawers in a month? Let us all do ourselves a favor the next time we have to choose between tacky or timeless, and choose the latter.

Letter to the editor: TCNJ alumni condemn hateful comments and actions

We are writing as a group of alumni who were alarmed and horrified to read of the hateful comments by members of the TCNJ College Republicans and others in a public GroupMe chat last November.

As a group we condemn the racist, anti-semitic, homophobic and transphobic language used by the students and their associates. Those who said such things put their ignorance on full display. They should be ashamed of their actions and the unneeded attention this has brought to the College. We hope that the students (and outside commenters) will take responsibility and apologize.

We want to let the students in the groups that were referenced in these hateful comments know that we stand in full support with them. We hope that the campus community joins us to ensure that everyone on campus feels welcome, supported and safe.

Unfortunately we are experiencing a time in this country when some individuals feel it’s acceptable to marginalize and attack those who are not like them. They take pleasure in divisiveness. Angry, mocking, ill-informed rhetoric is too often superseding rational discussion.

A college and its campus should be a place in which students come to be educated, not just in the classroom, but by their experiences with a diverse group of students, professors and staff. The actions of those who made these

awful remarks damage the potential for that to happen.

Those of us who have signed this email take pride in our TSC/TCNJ degrees and our experiences at the school. We want everyone to have access to the same kinds of experiences we did without being made to feel uncomfortable because of someone else’s prejudices.

Lastly, we also want to commend the staff of The Signal for their work and professionalism. Many who signed this letter are Signal alums and know firsthand how challenging it can be to cover campus events while dealing with personal attacks.

To be agents of change in this world, we need to speak up in situations like this one. For all those impacted by these hateful comments, we stand with you.

Sincerely,

Andrea Alfieri ‘97, Paul Alfieri ‘97, Marlaina Cockcroft ‘96, Tristan Cockcroft ‘97, Nancy Colasurdo ‘92, Joanna Fantozzi ‘11, Barry Federovitch ‘89, Dan Fox ‘96, Lisa Fox ‘96, Miguel Gonzalez ‘19, Julie Herstein ‘03, Joe Lewin ‘91, Jeffrey MacKenzie ‘22, Christine Ott ‘92, David Kushin ‘96, Jeff Ryan ‘98, Jennifer Ryan ‘98, Sean Ryan ‘98, Gregg Savarese ‘97, Deron T. Schreck ‘96, Randolph “Wolf” Shipon PhD ‘96, Mark Simon ‘97, Dave Steed ‘99, Carrie Zukowski ‘00

Letter to the editor: TCNJ President Michael Bernstein addresses recent Signal editorial on hateful comments

By Michael A. Bernstein President, The College of New Jersey

“When is it enough?” The Signal asked in an editorial last week. How much free speech is too much? It’s an important question and it deserves a response.

The Signal’s editorial focused on hateful comments made last fall by participants (not all of whom were TCNJ students) in the GroupMe chat of a recognized student organization. Let me say up front that I found the comments to be abhorrent and wholly inconsistent with the College’s values. I believe the overwhelming majority of our community would agree, which may make the answer to the question posed by The Signal editors less than satisfying. Please let me explain.

The First Amendment to the Constitution imposes a high bar upon public institutions like TCNJ for taking formal action related to speech. It is not enough that the speech is offensive to others. The Supreme Court has explained that to be actionable, the conduct or speech must be “so severe, pervasive, and objectionably offensive that it can be said to deprive the victims of access to the educational opportunities or benefits provided by the school.”

Nevertheless, just because a school may not discipline students for engaging in obnoxious or offensive speech, does not mean it cannot take other actions, including denouncing

the offending speech, providing support and resources to students and others who have been affected by it, and offering forums for the community to engage with alternative viewpoints. All of this, TCNJ can and does do.

The Signal isn’t the only organization that is paying attention to this case. The College has also heard from FIRE (the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression), an organization focused on defending free speech, which wrote in defense of one of the participants in the shameful group chat. The letter, however, notes that the First Amendment does not shield those who made the comments “from criticism by students, faculty, or the broader community. Criticism is a form of ‘more speech,’ the remedy to offensive expression the First Amendment prefers to censorship.”

While I understand the desire expressed in The Signal editorial piece to see disciplinary action taken in this matter, our obligations as a public institution of higher education necessitate caution and prudence in pursuing any steps that inappropriately infringe upon free speech rights. To my mind, The Signal is doing the best thing possible by writing about the contemptible behavior in question, condemning it, and making clear our community does not, will not, and will never embrace that kind of speech on our campus.

Some fashion trends are more timeless than others.

Photo courtesy of Flickr

Fighting hate with hate only leads to more hate

By Signal Editorial Board

The Signal published an editorial on Feb. 7 condemning antisemitic, racist, homophobic and transphobic comments that targeted other students, including two Signal editors and students in PRISM, the College’s oldest gender and sexuality alliance. These messages were sent by members of the TCNJ College Republicans in their recognized student organization public GroupMe chat. The editorial also questioned why the College did not take

any action against the RSO after it was made aware of the messages.

After our editorial was published, many members of the greater College community expressed disdain for the nature of the comments that were made, specifically those that directly targeted individual students.

The Signal also published a letter to the editor from President Michael Bernstein, as well as a letter to the editor from 24 alumni of the College, both regarding the situation. We greatly appreciate the support that

our community has shown us, and we are grateful that our editorial has started a conversation about addressing hate speech on campus.

However, The Signal does not appreciate those who are using this situation as an excuse to “expose” students because of their behavior, or to publish screenshots of the hateful messages in ways that could put victims of the hateful rhetoric at further risk. Fighting hate with hate only leads to more hate. As leadership from both the TCNJ College Republicans and PRISM

The Signal

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Tristan Weisenbach Editor-in-Chief

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POLICIES

said in The Signal’s recent article, “TCNJ College Republicans’ GroupMe messages spark conversations about free speech,” education is the best way to move forward from this situation. The Signal also agrees that this would be a positive approach.

Jordan Richman, director of Student Conduct and Off-Campus Services, told The Signal in an email statement for the aforementioned article that Student Conduct “prioritizes education and restorative approaches to address concerns, promote accountability, and support affected individuals.”

We wish Student Conduct would have followed through with this initiative in response to The Signal’s bias report investigation.

In a Dec. 18 email informing us that no violations to the Student Conduct Code or Recognized Student Organization Privileges & Responsibilities were found in relation to this incident, Conduct said, “Although there isn’t sufficient information for charges, in similar circumstances, we have opted to have an educational conference to address any concerns raised.”

However, this educational option was not explicitly offered to us.

No directions were provided beyond this statement as to whether we could pursue an educational path forward, or how to go about doing so if we wanted to.

By moving forward in a way that teaches students about the impact of their comments, it can avoid producing any further hostilities toward one another. Our campus should be a safe place for students to coexist despite our differing backgrounds, beliefs and identities.

Hate has no place in our community, and we must all do our part to continually call it out in ways that do not spur further negativity.

Administrative Staff

Elizabeth Gladstone Multimedia Coordinator

Andre Paras Video Editor

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Kathleen Webber Faculty Advisor

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.

Photo by Lake DiStefano

The Signal posted its editorial on Instagram, where many expressed their opinions in the comment section.

Signals of Love

Surge in US book bans sparks debate on freedom of expression

By Parisa Burton Nation & World Editor

Book banning across the United States has escalated in recent years, with over 10,000 public school book bans in the 202324 academic year alone, according to PEN America, a nonprofit organization aimed at protecting the freedom of expression through literature advancement.

Conservative officials in the Trump administration have publicly dismissed such bans, labeling them a “hoax” and ordering the U.S. Department of Education to end its investigations into them.

According to The Guardian, the largescale bans are targeting books about people of color and the LGBTQ+ community, authored by individuals who identify with these marginalized groups.

The 1619 Project is a collection of works published in The New York Times Magazine that aims to “reframe U.S. history

by centering the narrative around the contributions of Black Americans in building the country.” It also challenges the traditional idea that American history began with the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

This initiative has faced significant conservative backlash, dating back to 2020 with Trump arguing that it “teaches students to hate their own country,” according to The Guardian.

This Pulitzer Prize-winning project was banned in 2021 from being taught in Florida public schools by a Florida Board of Education Amendment. The proposal stated, “Instruction may not utilize material from the 1619 Project and may not define American history as something other than the creation of a new nation based largely on universal principles stated in the Declaration of Independence.”

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis furthered this initiative in 2022 when he signed the “Stop WOKE Act” into law, which re-

stricts the teachings of critical race theory in schools, colleges and workplaces.

The U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights published a press release on Jan. 25, rejecting claims that removing “age-inappropriate, sexually explicit, or obscene materials” creates a “hostile environment for students.” The department stated that such actions do not violate any civil rights laws, and has ordered an end to the employment of book ban coordinators.

The American Library Association said in a response statement that the Department of Education’s claim that book bans are not real is false, stating, “Ask students who cannot access literary classics required for college or parents whose children can’t check out a book about gay penguins at their school library…Everyone, everywhere, regardless of their age, background, or political views, deserves access to information from a wide range of perspectives and books that reflect their lived experiences.”

On Feb. 4, The Big Five Publishers of the U.S. — Penguin Random House, Hachette Book Group, HarperCollins Publishers, Macmillan Publishers and Simon & Schuster — joined Sourcebooks, the Authors Guild and several other stakeholders in filing a lawsuit against Idaho’s House Bill 710, which bans important literary works.

The law specifically bans minors from obtaining library books containing sexual content, no matter the educational or literary value, according to Publishing Perspectives. Classics such as “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” by Maya Angelou and “The Handmaid’s Tale” by Margaret Atwood have been banned.

The plaintiffs argue that nonfiction books, including “What’s Happening to My Body? Book for Girls” by Lynda Madaras and titles on historical events such as the Holocaust will be removed from shelves. They also claim that “All Are Welcome,” a children’s picture book that celebrates diversity would be also deemed “harmful for minors”

under this law.

John Yaged, CEO of Macmillan Publishers, highlighted the critical role of librarians and educators in providing a balanced selection of books, suggesting that a parent’s beliefs should not dictate what all students are allowed to read.

“Just because [another parent] has their rules doesn’t mean those rules should govern what my kid gets to read,” Yaged said.

Kasey Meehan, director of PEN America’s Freedom to Read program, argued that labeling book bans a “hoax” undermines the firsthand experiences of students, educators, librarians and authors. PEN America has also contended that the number of book bans in the past three years has surpassed those during the McCarthy era.

“There is no way to deny that our state and school districts have thwarted mine and my colleagues’ efforts to provide the highest quality education to our students without blatantly calling us liars,” Ayanna Mayes, a librarian at Chapin High School in South Carolina, told The 19th. “We have experienced what we say we have experienced. We have witnessed what we say we have witnessed.”

The surge in book bans reflects a broader conservative push against teaching diversity, race and LGBTQ+ issues in schools, according to The Guardian. Jonathan Friedman, managing director of PEN America’s U.S. free expression programs, warns that these bans serve as an “early sign of authoritarianism,” drawing comparisons to Nazi Germany’s book burnings.

The subtle nature of these actions, often framed as “removals” or “withdrawals” rather than direct censorship, makes them even more effective as they avoid public scrutiny. With a lack of media attention, these bans restrict access to diverse perspectives.

“For democracies to work, you need critical thinking so people can come up with their own points of view. The more you ban books, the less that happens,” Yaged said.

Trump administration orders major data purge, affecting dozens of websites

By Fiona Espinoza-Castro Staff Writer

Information was taken down from several United States government websites shortly after President Donald Trump took office, affecting 8,000 web pages across dozens of sites that provide information on vaccines, scientific research, hate crimes and many other topics. These website purges have been driven by federal agencies rushing to incorporate Trump’s executive orders, which target “gender ideology” and other diversity issues, according to The

Within the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 3,000 pages and a thousand research articles have been removed. The New York Times revealed that removed articles included information on sexually transmitted disease treatment guidelines, vaccine guidelines for pregnant people, preventing chronic diseases, Alzheimer’s warning signs and overdose prevention training.

The CDC has also removed various research papers that include terms like “pregnant person,” “LGBT,” “transgender,” “gender” and more, according

to them.us. This withdrawal order was sent via email by the agency’s chief science office and includes papers either written or co-written by CDC scientists. The order stated that scientists who have co-authored documents outside the CDC must renounce the work by removing their names from the manuscript.

Researchers have been described as “scrambling” to archive whatever is left of their work, according to AP News. As the Trump administration’s goal was to delete gender and transgender terminology, researchers are worried that other politically related topics like vaccines or climate change could be altered from their original state.

The measures have become so extreme that the U.S. Census Bureau is now erasing data. According to the New York Times, the U.S. Census Bureau has already removed over 3,000 pages, mainly consisting of articles related to research and methodology. Their main page was down and links to reports including details about gender identity, sexual orientation and mental health struggles amongst LGBTQ+ individuals were all “currently unavailable due to maintenance,” AP News reported.

The Department of Education has witnessed various LGBTQ+ websites taken down. These webpages included resources for youth experiencing homelessness and a Transgender Day of

Visibility roundtable, them.us reported. While research papers in the federal government’s Institute of Education Sciences are still accessible, the Trump administration is expected to affect this website as well.

Trump also intends to initiate the process of dismantling the Department of Education. The president has been wanting to turn education “back to the states” since his first term, according to them.us. For Trump to be successful, he will need the approval of Congress. Republicans have the upper hand with a three-seat majority in the House of Representatives.

On the Department of Education’s website, one removed page included “Resources for LGBTQI+ Students,” which is a guide on civil rights laws based on “Race, Color, or National Origin Discrimination,” according to AP News. The Trump administration has directly labeled diversity, equity and inclusion programs “discriminatory,” according to AP News.

With the potential for further data purges under Trump’s authority, concerns have risen about diminishing access to resources. According to the New York Times, the restrictions are still in their early stages. Pages that were removed to comply with the executive order may stay offline for some time as changes are implemented but could return online.

New York Times.

Book bans are on the rise in U.S. schools, with over 10,000 cases in 2023 and 2024.

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons Trump’s recent executive order has triggered widespread website purges.

Good News Lion: ‘City of Hope,’ chromium and Read Across Prisons

Graphic by Sandra Abrantes

of Hope,’ which is a symbol of hope and solidarity,” said Durmus Aydin, IHH Secretary-General. “However, we have never abandoned the Syrian people. Today, we are here with Qatar Charity. We are happy to bring to life a new and most extensive project.”

Chromium pollution converted into essential nutrients

Researchers at the University of Waterloo in Canada found that a special form of charcoal, biochar, produced by heating agricultural waste without oxygen, is highly effective at absorbing toxic chromium and transforming it into its safer form.

to reenter society. Brazil currently has the 15th highest imprisonment rate in the world with a recidivism rate of more than 80%.

This “Remission for Reading” program provides incarcerated individuals with access to the prison library, which includes books in braille and audiobooks for those with poor eyesight regardless of literacy skills or mental faculties.

By Janjabill Tahsin Correspondent

The Good News Lion is the Nation & World section’s biweekly news segment, highlighting positive news in the country and around the world. The theme of this article is looking forward to the future.

10,000 Syrians find refuge in “City of Hope” in northern Syria

In the northern Syrian region of A’zaz, the “City of Hope” was built and opened on Jan. 29, ready to provide refuge for Syrians affected by the civil war with all the necessary facilities for families displaced by the war.

The humanitarian project was built through the collaboration of the Turkish Humanitarian Relief Foundation and the Qatar Charity organization, and it will accommodate around 10,000 people, according to the Sarajevo Times.

The project spans a plot of 280 acres, consists of nine neighborhoods and includes 1,400 housing units, 1,200 units of which are 50 square meters each and 200 units at 100 square meters each. According to the Anadolu Ajansı, the project also has a mosque, four schools, a sports center, a clinic, a conference hall and a marketplace with 50 shops.

“The city is a gift to the Syrian people who have suffered for 14 years due to the brutal war and have been forced to flee,” said Yosef Al-Kuwari, CEO of Qatar Charity.

Since March 2011, the Syrian civil war has displaced millions of Syrians within the country, while many have fled abroad. Those who are displaced within Syria mostly live in overcrowded refugee camps in the north of the country, currently living in extremely difficult conditions in the Bab al-Salam refugee camp.

“Today, we are here to open our ‘City

Russia releases American teacher after being detained for three years

By Gauri Patel Staff Writer

Marc Fogel, an American history teacher, has been released from Russia in a high-profile exchange negotiated by President Donald Trump and his administration. The White House views Fogel’s return as a development that could help advance negotiation to end the war in Ukraine, according to AP News.

Fogel was detained in August 2021 after traveling through a Moscow airport with a small amount of medically prescribed marijuana. He was deemed wrongfully detained by former President Joe Biden’s administration.

In exchange for Fogel, the United States has released Alexander Vinnik, a convicted Russian cybercriminal who pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering last year.

According to Reuters, Vinnik was suspected of funneling billions of dollars made from ransomware attacks and identity theft, among other crimes, through the cryptocurrency exchange BTC-e.

Fogel was draped in an American flag upon arriving at the White House and was greeted personally by Trump. When speaking to reporters, Fogel expressed his gratitude, stating, “I feel like the luckiest man on Earth right now.”

Fogel’s relatives also expressed their relief at his homecoming, remarking, “For the first time in years, our family can look forward to the future with hope,” according to AP News.

While the specifics of the exchange remain unclear, Trump praised the deal as fair and emphasized that it could mark the beginning of an improved relationship with Russia.

“We were treated very nicely by Russia,” Trump said. He expressed hope that this diplomatic breakthrough would pave the way for broader discussions to end the Ukraine conflict, according to AP News.

Fogel’s release was facilitated with the assistance of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who was described as instrumental in the negotiations. Additionally, Trump’s Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, who personally accompanied Fogel back to the U.S., noted that Salman acted as “a cheerleader for this rapprochement where the two leaders would come together,” according to AP News.

The Trump administration has indicated that further diplomatic efforts are underway.

Trump’s national security adviser, Michael Waltz, said the exchange was “a sign we are moving in the right direction to end the brutal and terrible war in Ukraine,” according to AP News. Additionally, Trump’s special envoy for Russia and Ukraine, retired Gen. Keith Kellogg, has stated that U.S. officials will be working closely with European allies to outline the potential framework for peace discussions.

According to Reuters, the Kremlin, a term often used to refer to the Russian government, has downplayed Trump and his administration’s notion that this prisoner exchange would facilitate an end to the war in Ukraine.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the agreement will rather help build trust between the nations, rather than serve as a decisive turning point in their strained relationship.

“Of course, such agreements are hardly capable of becoming a breakthrough moment but at the same time, bit by bit, these are steps to build mutual trust, which is now at its lowest point,” Peskov said. However, both Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin have expressed interest in meeting to discuss Trump’s proposals for ending the war, according to Reuters.

The release of Fogel highlights a significant diplomatic exchange between the U.S. and Russia, with both sides showing a willingness to engage in further negotiations.

According to the Good News Network, chromium, a heavy metal, exists in two forms. Chromium (III) is “a safe micronutrient that the human body needs,” while chromium (VI) is a dangerous carcinogen associated with ovarian, lung and liver cancers and reproductive problems.

Chromium (VI) is generally created during industrial processes, including leather tanning, stainless steel production and mining. It can also naturally occur in the presence of manganese minerals.

However, through the natural filtering ability of organic carbon, biochar can be a potential tool for removing chromium pollution from industrial sites. Biochar may potentially also be used as a tool to monitor groundwater remediation efforts.

Prisoners around the world serve less time for every book they read

For the past 13 years, the Brazilian government has offered its incarcerated citizens an opportunity to read a book to serve less time.

For decades, the Brazilian criminal justice system was failing its 1984 mandate, which requires prisoners to have access to programs that will allow them

When a book is checked out, an incarcerated person has 21 to 30 days to finish it, depending on the page count, and then 10 days to demonstrate their knowledge of the text by completing a written book report. They offer assistance to those who speak different languages or have intellectual impairments.

For every report, the individual’s sentence is commuted by four days, and they can submit up to 12 per year, which, if fully utilized, equals 48 days of commuted sentence, according to the Good News Network.

According to UNESCO, a study conducted by the Brazilian Institute of Public Opinion and Statistics found that Brazil’s incarcerated citizens read nine times more than the national average of five books per year.

In a news release, the creative director of the advertising agency Artplan said, “Carambaia is a publisher focused on those who are passionate about reading, and we find that no one reads more than the prisoners. By giving voice to them and using the texts they produced, we show society that they are thinking, critical beings with their own opinions, which must be respected.”

The “Remission for Reading” program is now serving as a template for other nations, including Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, whose prison populations are enjoying similar deals.

Google Calendar erases various cultural celebrations amid Trump’s DEI crackdown

By Fiona Espinoza-Castro Staff Writer

Google Calendar has removed several cultural celebrations such as Black History Month, Women’s History Month and Pride Month. According to the New York Post, this resulted from the Trump administration’s crackdown on diversity, equity and inclusion policies. Other celebrations like Hispanic Heritage Month, Jewish Heritage Month, Holocaust Remembrance Day and more were also erased.

Although this gained traction online during the first week of February, Google asserted that they made the changes midway through last year, according to CBS. Google spokesperson Madison Cushman Veld told The Guardian that the listed holidays were not “sustainable” for the calendar’s model.

Google Calendar had reportedly included a broader set of cultural moments in various countries for years, all while using the website timeanddate.com, the world’s top-ranking site for date and time zones.

According to CBS, in June of 2024, Google returned to showing only public and national holidays from timeanddate.com, as they believed a wider range was difficult to upkeep and wasn’t “scalable or sustainable,” USA To-

day reported.

Meanwhile, Google announced that it would roll back on its goals for DEI initiatives, the New York Post reported. On Jan. 20, President Donald Trump issued numerous executive orders, beginning with “ending racial and wasteful government DEI programs and preferencing.” This executive order demands the termination of various DEI offices, services, programs, budgets and more.

The White House declared that the executive order protects the civil rights of Americans and one’s opportunity to combat private-sector discrimination. Federal statutes are being enforced in this case, and the “Constitution’s promise of colorblind equality before the law” is being recognized.

According to USA Today, Google stated on X that it had a “longstanding practice of applying name changes when they have been updated in official government sources.” This post led Google to reveal to its U.S. users that the Gulf of Mexico would be renamed to the “Gulf of America,” The Guardian reported. According to USA Today, Google also announced that it would follow the U.S. Geological Survey’s geographic updates. This includes changing the current name of the mountain in Alaska from Denali back to its original name, Mount McKinley.

Users have expressed disappointment online, as reported by the New York Post. For example, on Google Calendar’s Help page, one user wrote, “Google is aligning itself with an administration that is actively rolling back civil rights, consolidating power, and undermining the Constitution.”

The theme of this article is looking forward to the future.

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Google Calendar removes key holidays.

Art exhibit displays the power of puppetry in Mundheim’s ‘Performance Environments’

By Sky Pinkett Staff Writer

An artist of many trades, Sebastienne Mundheim has worked as a writer, designer, director, performer, educator and more for over 30 years. On Feb. 12, the College’s Art Gallery was treated to some of her interdisciplinary talents with her “Performance Environments” puppetry installation.

“I didn’t necessarily want to go into puppetry,” Mundheim said. “When I was young, I always made little sculptural characters…and then I would write little stories about them. So I always liked to make objects, and I always liked to put those objects with a story. When I started to tell those stories in front of people, the natural thing to do is to move those objects.”

This combination of object and story was evident in the exhibit’s first installation toward the left of the room.

Titled “The Giants and Sophie,” viewers are met with six giant heads that tower over observers, each with their own unique set of bulbous eyes, colorful skin, scruffy hair and crooked teeth. In the opposite corner can be found a miniscule town made up of wire, wood, paper, glue and other materials, and a little girl defiantly staring up at the giants.

Mundheim was commissioned in 2023 to create puppets of the seven giants and a little girl for The Arden Theatre Company’s production of Ronald Dahl’s “The BFG.”

“I included [“The Giants and Sophie”] because they hadn’t been seen in an exhibition setting before and I thought these would look really cool in the space,” Mundheim said.

Attached to each giant head are harnesses that can be fastened to an actor operating the puppet. Outside of the exhibit on the left was a large TV displaying highlights from Mundheim’s

various shows. Among the highlights were clips of some of the actors performing with the giant heads in action.

The second puppetry creation featured in the gallery was “Sea of Birds: from Guna Tales…and Clare.” Mundheim created a number of yellow flowers set in a mound of soil, each with their own set of rooty legs, that covered a large portion of the floor.

Walking deeper into the piece, you could see a human skeleton lounging on its hip, and an animal-like skeleton grazing its head against the ground. Above them were cardboard planes hanging from the ceiling, shining with the installation’s lighting overhead.

In the midst of it all stood a little blonde girl wearing clothes from a past era. The girl, named Clare, came from a separate performance, but was included in the “Sea of Birds” world to represent the artist’s mother and her story of leaving Latvia during Stalin’s Reign of Terror.

Explaining her mother’s connection to the work, Mundheim said, “My mom is an incredible storyteller, and my whole life I always sort of imitated her. I assumed that everyone would be mesmerized in the way that I am by her stories, and that I could really occupy or inhabit her presence.”

The artwork surrounds the viewer, making them feel as if they have stepped into another time and place. The shadows that the individual creations cast upon the wall further convey the element of a past time.

“I also was thinking about what inspired me to make things,” Mundheim said of her thought process behind the work. “I was thinking about my mom as a storyteller and me as a maker of things, and I thought that they both do a similar thing in terms of healing. The stories and the making are a way of remembering

and forgetting, and that seemed really interesting to me.”

After giving some time for all the visitors to digest the artwork, everyone gathered around for a brief introduction of Mundheim and her past work and experience.

“I think there’s something about the commitment of a group of people who decide that things that are not living are,” Mundheim said to the crowd. “It’s an unfamiliar space for us. It gives you something that shakes you up.”

Others who attended the exhibit expressed their thorough enjoyment and newfound appreciation for puppetry as an art form.

“Before I came here, I didn’t really think about puppetry that much. I didn’t really consider it as much of an art,” said Elena Sretenovic, a freshman biology major. “Now after I’ve seen the puppets, I’m able to see puppetry in a new light and I’m able to see it as an art form that can impact people’s lives and the way they observe things.”

While at the College, Mundheim is slated to perform her production “Kea and the Ark” in the Black Box Theatre on Saturday, March 1 and Sunday, March 2, both at 2 p.m. The performance combines puppetry, dance and electric cello to tell the true story of Kea Tawana, a woman who built a three-story tall and 86-foot long ark in Newark, New Jersey during the 1980s.

Tickets for “Kea and the Ark” are available now on the TCNJ Center for the Arts website.

As for Mundheim’s two installation exhibits in the College’s Art Gallery, viewing will be available in the AIMM Building in room 111 until March 2. Check out this exhibit to gain a new awareness of the artistic power of puppetry and paper sculpture.

Author Deep Dive: Navigating the mental health of college students

By Brandi Turner Correspondent

Mia Nosanow served as a mental health counselor for 20 years at Macalester College in St. Paul, Minnesota, providing support to students through both individual and group counseling. Although she didn’t always envision becoming a licensed psychologist or specializing in mental health, her passion for mentoring began while working at a local TV network, where she enjoyed guiding interns.

“This passion of mine led me to

volunteer at a local hotline for three hour shifts,” Nosanow said in an interview with The Signal.

Nosanow then returned to school, realizing her calling was to support college students and their mental health journey.

After starting her career in 2001, she noticed students were hesitant to come to her office for counseling. However, over time there was a shift. Students began coming in, reporting issues with sleep, struggles with self comparison, breakups, managing schedules and navigating friendships in emerging adulthood.

In 2007, she began to brainstorm ideas for a book, but it wasn’t until 2016 when she really immersed herself into the writing process.

During her 20 years of experience, Nosanow observed that student concerns weren’t solely centered around mental health, but wellness. To address this, in her new book, “The College Student’s Guide to Mental Health,” she breaks this down into six distinct parts: “Your Body,” “Your Identity,” “Your Thoughts,” “Your Emotions,” “Your Relationships” and “Your Time,” offering a comprehensive approach to student well being.

Throughout the writing process, Nosanow experienced self doubt and imposter syndrome. She often asked “why me?” when thinking of embarking on this journey of writing. Nosanow eventually overcame these thoughts and viewed writing the book

as a puzzle, putting together a problem that needs to be solved.

One of the main takeaways from the book that Nosanow wants students to understand is that when it comes to establishing a plan of action for wellness and bettering one’s mental health, each student is different.

“It’s about brainstorming what works best for you,” she said. “There are many different ways to get good nutrition, make new friends and get a healthy sleep pattern. Do what works for you.”

For instance, Nosanow recalled asking a client what brought them joy. The client said birds bro ught them joy, and Nosanow suggested they try bird watching. When they returned, the client shared how much they enjoyed the experience. This newfound joy even inspired them to take up a new hobby in birdhouse modeling.

Engaging in activities that bring happiness, no matter how small, can significantly enhance one’s day-to-day well-being. “Building your well comes with using your creativity,” Nosanow said.

When discussing some of the most significant mental health challenges she has encountered in her career, she highlighted loneliness. Nosanow noted that most times, college students may be nervous to socialize.

“The pandemic made it worse, so many people were being told to isolate themselves after being told to build their socializing skills,” she said.

She also said that because of the pandemic, there was and continues to be a rising emphasis on mindfulness in mental health. Nosanow is a big fan of mindfulness, describing it as a great tool that students can utilize in an effort to calm down, become more selfaware and gain acceptance.

However, Nosanow also recognizes an issue with mindfulness.

“The problem with mindfulness is that it has become a buzzword,” she said. “It is important for students to recognize that it does not cure everything, and it is okay to accept your emotions.”

“People working in student life and student affairs are genuinely mission-driven. They want to help you. However, not every therapist will be the right match, and therapy isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s rare to find the perfect fit on the first try 10 times to fit the perfect fit for you.”

In the long term, Nosanow hopes students take away an important message from the book: you don’t need to have everything figured out. Whether it’s building career skills or managing mental health, there’s no one “right” way to navigate life’s challenges. Each path and skill set is unique to the individual. What matters most is finding what works for you and continuing to push forward.

“It’s all about being in that place where you can trust, it’s a process to get from having a problem to getting a solution,” Nosanow said.

Photo by Erin Reilly

“The Giants and Sophie” incorporates six giant heads that tower over observers.

Photo courtesy of Mia Nosanow Mia Nosanow is a licensed psychologist.

‘Saturday Night Live’ celebrates 50 years of television history

By Ashley Ragone Arts & Entertainment Editor

Studio 8H waxed nostalgic with some of New York’s finest comedic entertainers to celebrate 50 years of “Saturday Night Live.”

The three-hour special boasted cast members from the first season, including Garrett Morris and Laraine Newman, and newer members, like Bowen Yang and Sarah Sherman. Several musical guests and celebrity hosts also attended, Lady Gaga and Kim Kardashian among them. The audience seating was expanded to include the hundreds of people who have been involved with the show throughout the years.

Opening the night’s events, Sabrina Carpenter and Paul Simon performed a duet of Simon & Garfunkel’s “Homeward Bound.” Generations old and new collaborated heavily in bringing sketches back to life, including a reprise of Rachel Dratch’s character “Debbie Downer” who made her “SNL” debut in 2004. John Mulaney and Pete Davidson led another musical-based sketch, commenting on the hallmarks of New York City.

Adam Sandler, who performed several original songs on “SNL” throughout the 1990s, returned

to deliver a tribute to the comedy show’s 50th year. He referred to the experiences of the show as the “best times of our lives,” attributed to creator Lorne Michaels.

“SNL” additionally celebrated more of its history through a montage dedicated to physical comedy, introduced by Molly Shannon’s character “Sally O’Malley” from 1999. Notable moments included several music-based sketches, Steve Martin’s “Dancing in the Dark” and a supercut of Chris Farley falling on several tables.

Sabrina Carpenter gets even sweeter with ‘Short n’ Sweet’ Deluxe

By Ally Uhlendorf Managing Editor

Two-time Grammy winner Sabrina Carpenter gave her fans the ultimate Valentine’s Day gift. The singer released a deluxe edition of her sixth studio album, “Short n’ Sweet.” Debuting four new tracks and a new version of “Please Please Please” featuring Dolly Parton, Carpenter reminded everyone why this was a No. 1 album on the Billboard charts.

Originally released in August 2024, “Short n’ Sweet” received its flowers worldwide. Right after its release, the album skyrocketed to the top for three consecutive weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, making it the second album in 2024 to spend its first three weeks atop the list. The album’s opening track, “Taste,” took No. 1 on Spotify’s U.S. chart, dethroning Carpenter’s own “Please Please Please” and making it the third song off her album to hit No. 1.

Additionally, the album earned six Grammy nominations, and took home two of those awards. Following this award-winning night, Carpenter announced the expanded version of the album via Instagram.

“As a thank you for giving this album 2 Grammy’s :’) short n’ sweet deluxe is now available for pre order.. and yes that does say featuring Miss Dolly Parton…. she wouldn’t want me to swear but holy sh*t!!!!!” Carpenter said in her post

alongside the deluxe album cover.

“Please Please Please” featuring Dolly Parton is probably the most talked about addition right now, with lots of mixed feelings about the feature. Obviously, Parton is a musical legend and is known for being one of Carpenter’s biggest inspirations, making this feature iconic in itself. However, some fans feel as though Parton would’ve been a better fit on Carpenter’s “Slim Pickins” due to its country song feeling.

Other tracks on the deluxe include “15 minutes,” “Busy Woman,” “Bad Reviews” and “Couldn’t Make It Any Harder.”

“15 minutes” has the classic Carpenter sounds, mixing retro pop with a discosounding beat. The song reflects on the phrase “15 minutes of fame,” while also throwing in some innuendos. Although Carpenter has been in the industry for a long time now, her rise to the top of Hollywood is current. Carpenter sings about the perils of this rising fame in this new track, turning her anxiety into comedy-filled lyrics.

“Busy Woman” has been a longawaited song ever since it was first teased throughout the star’s “Short n’ Sweet” tour. The singer stated in an Instagram post that she wrote the song after already completing her album, so as a treat to fans she made the song available for digital download in August for a limited amount of time. The song showcases Carpenter’s romantic life while also being a, like the title says, busy woman. It’s a quirky and cute pop song, with the classic Carpenter comical lyrics.

The shortest song off the deluxe, “Bad Reviews,” is more of a slower, country ballad style song. This track shows more of the artist’s vulnerable side, highlighting the trials and tribulations of being in love with someone who you know you should not be with. In the song, Carpenter sings that she’s heard “all the bad news and all the bad reviews…But still I choose to be in love with you.” Through her honest confessions and vulnerability, Carpenter creates a sense of comfortability in her lyrics.

Super Bowl LIX halftime show: A performance for the

history books

By Abigail Holliday Staff Writer

Kendrick Lamar gave his Apple Music Super Bowl LIX halftime performance at Caesars Superdome on Feb. 9 in New Orleans.

Pulitzer Prize and 20-time Grammy winner Lamar performed in front of many notable people, such as Jon Ham, Bradley Cooper, Anne Hathaway, Taylor Swift and President Donald Trump.

The stage was set up to depict a PlayStation controller decorated with backup dancers dressed in red, white and blue sweatsuits. The performance was kicked off by its emcee, Samuel L. Jackson, portraying America’s Uncle Sam, announcing, “this is the great American game.”

Lamar is also an activist, using his platform and music to get his points across. During his performance, he made comments such as, “The revolution is about to be televised, you picked the right time but the wrong guy.” He also said, “40 acres and a mule, this is bigger than the music.” This quote refers to when the Civil War had ended and the slaves in America were freed by the Emancipation Proclamation. Twenty Black pastors met and decided they wanted to be given land to live on by themselves, so the land was divided

and each family was given 40 acres. This order, Field Order 15, was rescinded by President Andrew Johnson immediately after Abraham Lincoln’s death.

Lamar opened the show with snippets of his most popular songs, such as “GNX,” “Squabble Up,” “HUMBLE.,” “Euphoria,” “peekaboo” and songs that feature SZA, like “luther” and “All the Stars.”

Throughout the performance, Uncle Sam kept interrupting and making comments on Lamar and his dancers, saying they were “too loud, too reckless, too ghetto.” He even asked, “Mr. Lamar, do you really know how to play the game?”

Lamar and his team of dancers gave the audience a brilliant visual show, forming the American flag with Lamar in the middle, alluding to a divided country. Lamar also used the red and blue dancers to symbolize the Bloods and Crips, two infamous rival gangs in Los Angeles, according to Rolling Stone.

Lamar teased his five-time Grammy-winning diss track against Drake, “Not Like Us,” saying, “I wanna perform their favorite song but you know they love to sue.”

Photo courtesy of IMDb

The special aired on Feb. 16, revisiting some of the most iconic sketches.

Photo courtesy of Apple Music

“Short n’ Sweet” (Deluxe) brings five more songs to Carpenter’s discography.

Photo courtesy of IMDb

Kendrick Lamar and SZA performed at halftime at the Eagles vs. Chiefs Super Bowl LIX.

Women’s basketball wins tight Senior Day matchup

By Tyler Morello Staff Writer

The College’s women’s basketball team rode their hot streak this past week, snagging wins in their matchups against Rowan University and New Jersey City University. They were able to extend their win streak heading into the final stretch of the season.

The Lions first traveled to Glassboro, New Jersey, to face a streaky Profs squad that had won four straight and seven of their last nine games.

The Profs were seeking revenge for their earlier contest against the Lions when the Lions came out on top 5846. This time around, it was not much different as the Lions capitalized on their three-point opportunities to win 69-53.

They knocked down six of their 10 total threes in the first quarter, propelling them to a 22-12 lead. The College suddenly went cold from beyond the arc in the second and third quarters, and the Profs clawed back to make it a two-point game with four minutes to go in the third.

The College was able to keep the game under control from there on out

and hit three more three-pointers in the fourth to close it out, as they shot 10-25 on the night.

It was the starters who really carried the offensive load for the Lions. Four of the five starters hit double figures in points, while the bench only accounted for two points.

Sophomore Grace Kowalski finished with 20 points and five assists, the fourth time this season she has had at least 20 points. Seniors Arianna McCleod and Nina Branchizio poured in 16 and 14 points respectively, while junior Katie Fricker had 10.

The College then faced off against New Jersey City University, a team that has been the Lions’ kryptonite in recent years. The two squads competed in an absolute thriller for the Lions’ Senior Day where they honored Branchizio and McCleod and were able to come away with a win.

“It was definitely a special moment to get a win on a day that is meant to celebrate mine and Nina’s careers here,” McCleod, a marketing major, said. “Especially in such a close game, I think it really shows the chemistry we have as

a team on and off the court.”

“Senior night or not, we always are grateful to be out there and play for one another,” Branchizio, a speech pathology and audiology major, said.

McCleod and Kowalski got the Lions going early in the first with some buckets, while Branchizio scored seven in the quarter. Junior Myah HouriganHutton laid in the ball with a few seconds left after a sweet drive and dish from freshman Amanda Baylock to put the Lions up 18-10.

The Gothic Knights were able to crawl back into the game with the Lions getting into some foul trouble in the second quarter. Branchizio and McCleod each picked up their second foul early in the quarter, while Kowalski did the same near the end of the quarter.

Not only would these fouls take them out of the game, but NJCU was capitalizing by hitting 11-12 free throws in the quarter alone. The College held a 28-25 lead at the half.

Everything was starting to work against the Lions’ favor to start the second half. Branchizio got her third foul early in the third quarter, and the Lions’ offense seemed to stall as they were all of a sudden down 36-30 with just over three minutes left.

Freshman Brooke McFadden scored off an assist from Hourigan-Hutton and then soared in for an offensive rebound on the next possession, which she put back in to cut the deficit to two. After a free throw made by NJCU, Kowalski drained a rainbow three to knot up the score at 37.

McFadden got the ball once again on the ensuing offensive possession and fought through contact for an and-one to get the fans and Lions’ bench on their feet. The Gothic Knights hit their only three-pointer of the game as time expired in the third, and they led 42-40 heading into the fourth.

The College once again found themselves in a difficult situation down 51-44 midway through the fourth quarter, and it seemed things were starting to slip

Men’s club hockey puts up strong performances in weekend back-to-back

By Tyler Fennell Staff Writer

The College’s men’s Division I club hockey team faced two challenging opponents over the weekend. The first came on Feb. 14 against the United States Naval Academy. The College lost 3-2.

The game opened with freshman Josh Kushnir scoring a goal assisted by junior Logan May. The Lions came into the second period with a 1-0 lead. However, the Navy was able to quickly respond on the power play.

May scored for the College to make the game a score of 2-1. Unfortunately, Navy would score again on the power play to tie the game, and later on score again at even

strength in the third period to take the lead and win the game.

Despite the loss, there were a few bright spots in the game. The first of which was junior Michael Bussanich’s performance in net. Bussanich faced 41 shots and saved 38 of them, putting up a stellar .926 save percentage.

The other bright spot was May’s two point night, assisting on the first goal and scoring the second.

On Feb. 15, the College faced Towson University. The Lions won in overtime with a score of 4-3.

The game started with the College being down 1-0, but they quickly responded with three goals in the first period.

The first goal was scored by junior

away. Kowalski knocked down another timely three-pointer to give the team some momentum.

With the score 53-49, fifth-year Jaclyn Feit caught the ball on the left block and powered her way across the paint with a defender draped on her for an and-one lay-in. After converting on the freethrow, the Lions forced a turnover and got the ball back.

The College went right back to Feit on the left block, and she went through the paint again for another layup. They fed her again on the next possession and got similar results as Feit was fouled going up for the shot. She made both free throws to put the Lions up 56-55 with just under two minutes to play.

Neither team scored after this, but the Gothic Knights did have a final shot after a costly Lions turnover with 11 seconds left. The Lions ultimately came together for one final stop to win the nail-biter of a game.

These two wins made it eight in a row for the College, as they seem to be hitting their stride at the perfect time.

“I think repetition has been a huge key to our success in this past stretch of games,” said McCleod. “We get continuous reps in practice with shooting, playing 1v1 defense and finishing through contact and I think our improvement in those areas has shown in our recent games.”

The Lions have one more regular season game at Montclair State University on Wednesday, Feb. 19 before the New Jersey Athletic Conference playoffs begin. They will be looking to settle some unfinished business from last season where they lost in the championship game.

“I think the main thing is taking it one game at a time and not getting ahead of ourselves,” Branchizio said about the playoffs. “We’re facing some tough opponents in the coming games, so making sure we stay focused in practice is important. Having competitive, fun practices leading up to games like these gives us extra confidence.”

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E.J. Gleie. The second goal was scored by freshman Colin Helkowski, and the final goal of the first period was scored by sophomore Nick Staudt for his first goal of the season.

The first period was dominated by the College, with the shots on goal being a lopsided 19-8. However, the rest of the game was much more evenly matched in terms of possession. Despite this, Towson was able to convert on the power play in the second period, and scored a third goal in the third period to force overtime.

May, having himself a weekend, capped it off with scoring the overtime winner against Towson. In the two games, he had three points, two of which were goals and one being a game winner.

The College dominated in total shots with 49 to Towson’s 38, largely in part to their incredibly aggressive first period offensively.

Senior goaltender Ethan May saved 35 out of 38 shots with a .921 save percentage, with both goaltenders closing their weekends with save percentages above .920 in each game.

Feb. 21 marks the quarter finals for the playoffs of the Northeast Collegiate Hockey League where the College will take on Rutgers. Despite Rutgers having a higher seeding, it is important to note that the Lions have a significantly better goal differential with a -18 compared to Rutgers’ -30.

The College’s biggest advantage going into the playoffs will be their goaltending, considering their recent performances.

Wrestling Saturday, Feb. 22, 10 a.m. Home for Mideast Futures Tournament

Men’s and Women’s Tennis Saturday, Feb. 22 Away at Union College

Men’s Basketball Saturday, Feb. 22, 4 p.m. Away at No. 4 Kean University NJAC Tournament First Round

Men’s and Women’s Track Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 22-23

Neutral Site in Philapelphia NJAC Indoor Championships

Men’s and Women’s Tennis Sunday, Feb. 23 at 2 p.m. Away at RPI

Women’s Basketball

Wednesday, Feb. 26 at 7 p.m. Home against William Paterson or NJCU NJAC Tournament Semifinals

Photo courtesy of Arion Owes

Senior guard Nina Branchizio was celebrated alongside senior Arianna McCleod in their final home game.

Photo courtesy of Derek Meola

The Lions split their two games at Navy.

Men’s basketball picks up Senior Day victory

By Joseph Caruso Staff Writer

The College’s men’s basketball team continued to roll this past week, outlasting Rowan University on the road and then handling New Jersey City University on Senior Day, now having won eight of their last nine since their loss against Montclair State University.

On Wednesday, Feb. 12, the Lions traveled to Glassboro to take on a middling

Rowan team, which ranks sixth in the New Jersey Athletic Conference.

Despite that, Rowan came out ready to play, jumping out to a quick 10-2 lead less than two minutes into the game and going up by as much as 11 in the first half. The Profs went into the locker room threatening the College’s winning streak as they were up 37-30.

Shooting 2-18 from three in the first half, the Lions would probably consider themselves lucky to be down by just seven

SWIM / Men win NJAC Championship

Continued from page 1

“It was pretty special to take the three titles,” Higgins, a mathematics major, said.

Senior Ryan VanDeVeen also took home two individual titles, winning both the 100yard and 200-yard breaststroke events for the second year in a row. He put up a winning time of 54.39 seconds in the 100-yard breaststroke, and broke a school record with a winning time of 1:57.97 in the 200-yard breaststroke.

Senior diver Ethan Weiss won his fourth consecutive conference title in the 1-meter dive, putting up a score of 463.5 in the final round.

Freshman M.J. Hoban won his first ever conference title in the 50-yard freestyle. He won by two-hundredths of a second, with a time in the finals of 20.16 seconds.

Sophomore Steven Bendoraitis took home a victory in the 1,650-yard freestyle. Bendoraitis beat his teammate, junior Gavin Formon, by just under two seconds, finishing with a time of 15:34.83. Bendoraitis’ win took away the chance at a repeat victory in this event for Formon.

Freshman Joe McChensey won the 100yard butterfly, giving him his first individual conference title. The McChesney family seems to be making their mark on the College’s swimming and diving program, as Joe’s older brother, James, graduated a year ago as one of

points.

Steadily chipping away, the College took their first lead since the score was 2-0, with just nine minutes remaining in the second half thanks to junior Nick Koch, who scored 13 of his game-high 30 points in the second half. After more back-andforth action, the Lions would eventually pull out the win over Rowan 77-72 to increase their win streak to four games.

Koch, who recently became the 26th player in program history to surpass 1,000 points, continues to show the same humility and selflessness that has led the College to their best regular season record in years.

“I couldn’t have done what I’ve done these past three seasons without my coaching staff and my teammates,” Koch said. “They push me to become a better version of myself every day.”

On Saturday, Feb. 15, the College returned home to host NJCU on Senior Day, looking to extend their winning streak.

Honoring the seniors, Coach Goldsmith started four seniors along with Koch, including giving seniors Thomas Menyhert and Shaun Johnson their first start of the season.

Similarly to the last game, it was a sluggish start for the Lions, who found themselves trailing 14-7 after a 9-2 run from the Gothic Knights. They did not waste much time, however, quickly

responding with nine unanswered points of their own to regain the lead.

Scoring 19 of his 32 points in the first half, Koch propelled the College to a fourpoint lead heading into the break.

The Lions would not surrender their grip on the Gothic Knights in the second half, thanks to a stellar performance from junior Matthew Soloman, who scored 16 points and grabbed 13 rebounds en route to an 87-72 Lions victory, marking it their fifth in a row.

Since a difficult loss to first-place Montclair State on Jan. 15, things have shifted in a completely different direction for the College, who have now won eight of their last nine games.

“The turning point for us has been all mental. Through the adversity, we learned to stay calm and trust the process,” Koch said. “By trusting the process, I mean with coach’s gameplans and our ability to become even better.”

Holding the longest winning streak in the NJAC, the College’s confidence is sky-high heading into their regular season finale against Montclair State.

The Lions face off against Montclair State on Wednesday, Feb. 19 for a chance at the top seed in the NJAC tournament.

“The way we get revenge against Montclair is to trust Coach Goldsmith’s gameplan and be us.” Koch said. “When we are being us and doing what we do, nobody in the nation can stop us.”

Women’s lacrosse looks ahead to an important season

By Olivia Trasser Staff Writer

The countdown has begun until the College’s Lady Lions lacrosse takes the field. As Head Coach Sharon Pfluger prepares her team for the year ahead, one thing is certain — expectations are always set extremely high.

the Lions’ most decorated swimmers, having won two individual national titles among a myriad of other awards. Joe, with his first conference title, is looking to be in good shape to follow in his older brother’s footsteps.

McChesney also competed in all three of the College’s relay titles, along with Hoban and junior Andrew Kidchob. Sophomore Bradley Frank helped out these three to win the 200yard freestyle relay, as they won with a time of 1:21.42. VanDeVeen added to his collection of hardware on the weekend as he helped the trio win the other two relays, the 200 and 400-yard medleys. The Lions won those events with times of 1:28.56 and 3:16.00, respectively.

“It takes a lot of team chemistry to pull off a performance like we did,” Higgins said about the championship. “You need a close knit team to thrive off one another and find motivation to be the best for your team.”

The women finished sixth in the tournament. Junior diver Beth Evaldi was the highlight of the weekend for the Lions, as she won both the 1-meter and 3-meter dive. She got a score of 394.65 in the 1-meter and 399.20 in the 3-meter. This was her first conference title in the 1-meter dive and second straight 3-meter title.

With the NJAC season now over, the College will look ahead to the NCAA Championships, which will take place in Greensboro, North Carolina, in mid-March.

The Lions, ranked No. 14 in the nation in the USA Lacrosse Preseason Poll, are no strangers to the competitive lineup that they have for the 2025 season.

Under Pfluger’s leadership, the College has built a dynasty. From NCAA Championships, All-American talent and an unwavering commitment to excellence, this season is shaping up to be one to look after.

With preseason All-American fifth-year Ally Tobler and junior Marissa Lucca leading the pack, the Lions are set to compete at the highest level.

Tobler, a graduate student, enters her final season as a preseason First Team All-American. Already a threetime IWLCA All-American and a two-time First Team selection, she is coming off an impressive senior season wanting to make this last season of hers the best yet.

In the 2024 season, Tobler finished second in the New Jersey Athletic Conference in goals (66) and points (89) while securing 94 draw controls, which is the sixth most in a single season in program history. Tobler is one of just 13 three-time AllAmericans in the College’s history, where she will be one of the top driving forces for the Lions’ attack once again in 2025.

Alongside her, Lucca is poised to build on a standout sophomore season where she earned NJAC Rookie of the Year honors.

“Some individual goals of mine are to be better than last season, excel in all areas on the field and be someone that my team can count on in any given situation,” said Lucca.

The junior attacker finished third in the NJAC in both goals (61) and points (81) in 2024, trailing Tobler by only a handful of tallies. With 11 hat tricks in 17 games, Lucca proved to be a dynamic scoring threat and will look to take another step forward this season as a key offensive weapon.

Now, she’s using the preseason recognition as fuel to elevate her game and help the team to winning a national championship.

“This recognition motivates me to push myself and my teammates at practice to work hard,” Lucca said. “I think we have a lot of potential this season because we are a selfless team that gets along very well and wants to win.”

With a mix of experienced leaders and emerging stars, the College has its sights set on another deep postseason run. The Lions open their season on Saturday, March 1, with a nonconference matchup against Ursinus, with the opening draw set for 12 p.m.

It is the beginning of what could be a milestone season for the legendary Pfluger, who enters the year with 589 career wins. A Hall of Famer and one of the most decorated coaches in NCAA history, Pfluger is closing in on her 600th victory, an achievement that would further solidify her legacy as one of Division III sports’ greatest leaders.

Photo by Elizabeth Gladstone

The Lions pulled out an impressive win in their Senior Day.

Photo by Elizabeth Gladstone

The Lions have won their second straight NJAC title.