GO! Goes From CCEL to Campus Ministry
By ELEANOR SMITH STAFF WRITER
Global Outreach! (GO!), a service and immersion program rooted in Jesuit values, is moving from the Center for Community Engaged Learning (CCEL) to Campus Ministry. GO! projects send students to communities in the United States and around the world to learn about inequality and work against systems of oppression.
“[GO! is] not only [about] global outreach, but also implementing what we learn in our communities here in New York,” said John Gownley, director of GO! and associate director of Campus Engagement.
According to Gownley, GO! started 62 years ago. It began with a group of students who wanted to go to Mexico and the university supported them in finding a project. Students wanted to do other similar projects, and the program SEE GO, PAGE 5
The Fordham Ram
Graduate School of Religious Education Set to Merge with Graduate School of Education
By JACK MCDONALD ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
The Fordham Graduate School of Religion and Religious Education (GRE) is set to merge with the Graduate School of Education (GSE) this month. According to Fr. Francis X. McAloon, S.J., acting dean of the GRE, the integration will likely run through the spring and summer of the 2025 semesters
with consultation between GRE and GSE faculty to ensure a smooth transition.
Fordham’s GRE was founded at Rose Hill in 1959 by a small group of Jesuit priests, led by Fr. Vincent M. Novak, S.J. Novak was dean of the GRE from 1975 until his retirement in 2004. According to the GRE’s official website, these Jesuits “reframed religious education and
Students and Faculty React to TikTok Ban
By LALLEYAH CAMARA CONTRIBUTING WRITER
On the night of Saturday, Jan. 18, the social media app TikTok became inaccessible in the United States. The official ban, passed by the U.S. Congress was
meant to take effect on Jan. 19; however, the app met its temporary end earlier than expected. Only 12 hours later did the app return, except for those who had prematurely deleted the app. Discussions on the ramifications of the ban include its effect on free
speech on social media and the future of TikTok.
TikTok has gained global fame since its inception, chiefly with its American audience, according to ABC News. Students at Fordham have had mixed reactions towards the ban. Many did not SEE TIKTOK, PAGE 4
pastoral ministry with an innovative approach and an adaptive structure that inspire and inform the work of our faculty to this day.”
While the GRE has been a key department of Fordham University over the last 60 years, its faculty presence and student population has been dwindling.
“A year and a half ago, the
SEE GSRE, PAGE 4
New Subway
Initiaitive Stirs Students
By EDUARDO MATEO CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Earlier this month, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul announced a new initiative to improve safety on the New York City subway system. Hochul, who has served as the 57th governor of New York since 2021, has gained traction
female governor of the state upstate New York to assume the charge of governor since Nathan L. Miller in 1992.
Her initiatives for the subway focus on partnering with the New York Police Department (NYPD) to deploy law enforcement City Subway train between
PAGE 4
By JASMINE GARCIA CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Rose Hill Gymnasium celebrated its 100th anniversary on Jan. 16, marking a milestone as one of the oldest active gymnasiums in the United States.
The celebration kicked off with a special event during a basketball game against the University of Massachusetts that led into triple overtime. Students, alumni, faculty and staff gathered to honor the gym’s presence over the course of several games, including women’s basketball on Jan. 18.
This event was organized and promoted by Fordham Athletics. During the game, attendees were treated to commemorative giveaways such as t-shirts, limited-edition sweatshirts and Coca-Cola beverages.
“Seeing students, alumni, and fans engage with the history and share their personal connections to the gym has been truly rewarding,” said Eilish Devine, assistant athletic director for marketing and promotions. “It’s been amazing to watch this milestone spark so much pride and excitement across campus.”
“Anytime you have a nationally recognized historic athletic facility on a campus, it keeps you in conversations,” said Charles Guthrie, director of Fordham Athletics. “Rose Hill has always been a place where Fordham’s spirit is on display, and it’s a great opportunity for brand awareness. Whether it’s Rose Hill
SEE GYM, PAGE 5
in this issue
Opinion
Trump’ s Dream: The Sabatoge of Sensitive Locations Sports
Goodbye Mr. Baseball Culture
Page 12
Real Clothes, Real Lives: 200 Years of What Women Wore
8 Page 19
JACK MCDONALD/THE FORDHAM RAM
The Graduate School of Religion was founded in 1959 by a group of Jesuit priests.
On Jan. 18 American found the TikTok app inaccessible on their phone, it returned the next day.
CRISTINA STEFFANIZZI/THE FORDHAM RAM
PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEFS
Loschert Hall Jan. 18
11:47 p.m.
On Saturday, there was a stuck occupied elevator in Loschert Hall. The supervisor responded and freed the students. A technician from the elevator company responded and placed the elevator back in service.
Walsh Library Jan. 20
1:46 p.m.
alarm in the Walsh Library. The supervisor and New York City Fire Department responded. The investigation revealed workers triggered the alarm. There was no smoke the alarm panel.
Walsh Hall Jan. 22
3:20 p.m.
On Wednesday, there was a smoke alarm in Walsh Hall. The supervisor and New York City Fire Department responded. The investigation revealed a student cooking food triggered the alarm. The supervisor ventilated the area and reset the alarm panel.
Loyola Hall Jan. 26
8:34 p.m.
On Sunday, there was a stuck, unoccupied elevator in the basement of Loyola Hall. The supervisor responded,
elevator company. A technician responded and placed the elevator back in service.
Sexual Assault Prevention Training for Club Leaders
By JULIA CHOLERTON CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Every year select club leaders are required to complete a training module entitled “Sexual Prevention for Undergraduate Students.” e program focuses on diminishing instances of sexual assault at Fordham.
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Provided by Vector Solutions, the course is meant to “engage students in developing healthy relationships and prepare them to recognize and respond to sexual assault, harassment, and gender-based violence when it occurs,” according to Vector’s website. It trains leaders not only to know laws surrounding sexual assault but to be able to handle situations they may encounter while engaging with and observing other club members. e course educates those who have commi ed themselves to serving the student community and holds them and their club members accountable for their actions.
This program from Vector Solutions, curated specifically
towards college communities, focuses on four important aspects of sexual assault prevention. The first is to “engage students in learning about sexual harassment, relationship violence, assault, and stalking.” In order for students to recognize instances of sexual assault, they must first be able to clearly define what such events might look like. This also aids students in recognizing what actions are appropriate in sexual situations and what actions could harm themselves or others.
e second goal is to “prepare learners with intervention skills.”
is teaches students how to safely interfere in situations that they nd to be dangerous without aggravating the situation.
The third goal is to “examine the differences between consent and coercion.” Learning and fully understanding which actions qualify as consent allows individuals to discern when their own actions are appropriate as well as when
the behavior of others needs to be interrupted.
e nal goal is to “explore the ways alcohol and other drugs a ect an individual’s ability to consent.” is is especially important in a college se ing in which substances that may impair judgement are more common.
e program is not new in the state of New York, and is now a requirement for club leaders to complete.
e United Student Government Vice President of Operations, Megan Ruzicka, FCRH ’27, provided more detailed knowledge of the training.
“[It is] similar to the Residential Life requirement for incoming students,” she said “[as its] completed online through video modules with questions a er each section.”
Every individual who a ends Fordham has a di erent background with unique experiences, but when it comes to sexual assault it is imperative that every person understands boundaries and the lasting impact that harassment can
This Week at Fordham
Wednesday Jan. 29
All-Industry Career Fair
McShane Center Great Hall 1 p.m.
Fordham is hosting their 2025 Spring Career Fair on Wednesday. The event welcomes students from all majors to network with employers and learn about internship and job opportunities.
Thursday Jan. 30 Grant Writing Workshops
Keating 214, 121 and 204 1 p.m.
Fordham is holding research grant writing workshops for social sciences, STEM and humanities in Keating 214, 121 and 204 respectively. This event is open to all students!
Friday Jan. 31
Winterfest Concert 2025
Lowenstein: Pope Auditorium 5 p.m.
Fordham is once again hosting its annual Winterfest Concert this Friday featuring singersongwriter Ashe. Each student can purchase up to two guest tickets, so bring your friends!
Saturday Feb. 1
The Lost Reggae Tapes
Bronx Music Hall, 163rd Street 6 p.m.
screening of “Studio 17: The Lost Reggae Tapes” on Saturday to learn about the Chinese Jamaican family who created the music genre known as reggae.
have on other individuals. is training will provide basic knowledge surrounding sexual harassment that all students, particularly student leaders, need to comprehend.
is training is especially important for college-age students, who are exceedingly more likely to experience sexual assault then other age groups, according to INN, the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization. 13% of all students experience rape or sexual assault through physical force, violence, or incapacitation and 5.8% of students have experienced stalking since entering college.
roughout the university, only club presidents and treasurers are required to undertake the program. According to Ruzicka, this is because “president and treasurer are the two most consistent executive board positions across clubs, so those are the positions that the O ce of Student Involvement requires to complete the training.”
Sunday Feb. 2
Urban Funk Spectacular
Lehman Center for Performing Arts 4 p.m.
Celebrate Hip-Hop’s Bronx origins by attending the Lehman Center’s Urban Funk Spectacular on Sunday. Enjoy a dynamic performance that combines Hip-Hop music with amazing stunts!
CRISTINA STEFANIZZI/THE FORDHAM RAM
Every year, a select group of club leaders completes mandatory sexual assault prevention training provided by Vector Solutions.
USG Hears Club Proposals and Discusses Potential Study Abroad Committee
By SOFIA SEMPER COLUMNIST
The Fordham Rose Hill United Student Government (USG) met on Thursday, Jan. 23, to review club presentations and new business.
The co-founders of Doctors Without Borders presented their club proposal at last week’s meeting. The purpose of the club would be to combine volunteer work with on advocacy and community Bronx and on campus.
They hope to advocate for and provide support for a variety of humanitarian crises on the Bronx and Fordham community. The club itself would not just be for prehealth students, but for all Fordham students who are interested in joining.
They explained that by focusing on the betterment of the community and advocating for humanitarian rights, the club hopes to encourage broad participation and study.
The club’s executive board members plan to meet every four to six weeks and host general meetings about once a month where they work on possible guest speaker events and fundraising opportunities.
Some events that they would
By JACK MCDONALD ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
Travis Proulx was appointed to the position of vice president of external affairs at Fordham University on Tuesday Jan. 21. His appointment makes him the first vice president of external affairs after an eightperson search committee, chaired by Chief of Staff Dr. Michael Trertola.
Proulx will act as a liaison with local government as well as other outside bodies Fordham may work with.
Proulx is an alumnus of St. Lawrence University’s class of 2004 and holds a master’s in public policy/communications from the Graduate Center at the City University of New York (CUNY).
Proulx previously served as vice chancellor for agency and community engagement for the State University of New York (SUNY) collegiate system.
A statement released by President Tania Tetlow on Jan. 15 noted that Proulx “oversaw government relations, policy development, budget and research advocacy, community
like to organize include fundraisers, such as fun runs, bake sales, blood donation drives, mental health awareness events and guest speakers. The club would require funding from USG for compensation for their speakers and other event costs.
Executive President Eron Maltzman, GSB ’25, presented the executive report.
The upcoming USG retreat is scheduled for either Saturday, Feb. 8 or Sunday, Feb. 9. Maltzman stated that they will be tabling their discussion on the USG Bylaws due to further necessary research prior to their review.
He then opened a discussion regarding the possibility of creating a new Study Abroad committee that would be a permanent part of USG. Currently, there is a Study Abroad subcommittee that is a part of the FCRH Dean’s Council, however, Maltzman wants to integrate it even further into USG by making it a permanent committee.
Vice President of Fordham College at Rose Hill Emma Blake, FCRH ’25, explained that she believes that the current Study Abroad subcommittee head has reservations about integrating further into USG; however, Blake thinks that this change will help the subcommittee to get more responses from the Study
been issues with lack of communication and responses.
Additionally, other USG members brought up concerns from students regarding the study abroad application process. Such as getting professor’s letters of recommendation, students on the health and pre-medical academic tracks having when trying to go abroad.
The lack of STEM classes available and many more concerns will be discussed in further detail at next week’s meeting.
Maltzman announced that they will have multiple speakers at next week’s meeting, as he invited Fordham’s department heads to present to USG.
He also stated that he wants to invite the Fordham student body to be more involved in the Club of the Month decision by allowing them to nominate clubs that they feel deserve the recognition rather than simply having the senate classes nominate them. They are still working on creating the best way for them to receive the student body’s feedback.
Vice President of Operations Megan Ruzicka, GSB ’27, stated that she is currently Student Involvement on
her committee’s upcoming projects and she reminded the USG members to sign up for the Out of the Darkness Walk, which is scheduled for April 5.
Vice President of Finance and Budget Peter Grimes, day of club training was a success and that issues with the RamsInvolved page should bemit their appeals.
Vice President of Student Life Joe DaProcida, FCRH ’25, stated that he is currently working on this year’s Beacon Exemplar event.
Blake announced that her Undergraduate Research subcommittee has three grant and proposal writing workshops coming up, her STEM subcommittee is having a panel on Feb. 11, the Study Abroad subcommittee is planning a student panel and the
Student Wellness subcommittee is working on a new proposal with Dean Maura Mast.
Senator Grace Shin, FCRH ’28, stated that she is currently working on implementing a wellness room on campus. This would essentially be a space for students who are having a potential mental health crisis, need space for an online therapy session or simply want to go somewhere where they can de-stress.
In the wellness room, there would be coloring books, journaling materials and mental health related items that students can use to help them feel better. Shin is still working on the proposal and is talking with Counseling and Psychological Services to get this room implemented as soon as possible.
engagement and marketing across SUNY’s 64 campuses.”
He also held positions in public relations with the New York State Government.
In his new role, Proulx is set -
ment investments and weave relationships with Fordham University and its greater community in conjunction with the Center for Community Engaged Learning (CCEL) to connect Fordham with the Bronx and Manhattan. Importantly, Proulx will assist CCEL in administering the $50 million grant awarded to Fordham University by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA).
Proulx was interested in the role as he believes in ethics in the workforce. “For me, it is important to work someplace that is committed to making a difference in the lives of others,” said Proulx. “At Fordham, you have an exceptional institution and a remarkable team organized under President Tetlow’s leadership.
The role — advocacy, community engagement, partnerships, and communications that maximize resources and
opportunities for students, faculty, staff, and the community — is highly rewarding.”
Furthermore, Proulx believes a university with the right resources for faculty, staff and students is one which can thrive. “Colleges and universities must open doors to create upward social mobility, and excel as engines of research, innovation, and excellence,” said Proulx.
He and his team are committed to following an agenda which aligns itself with making collegiate education more supportive, affordable and open to engagement with the broader community.
“I have spent my career advocating on behalf of causes and people, which comes easily to me,” said Proulx. “[The hiring process] was a two-month process that included professional reference and background checks leading up to Dec. 23, when Tokumbo Shobowale offered me the opportunity to join his team. I’m grateful to him, and to the
Proulx worked for the SUNY system and the NY State Government.
search committee, Office of Human Resources, and others who dedicated a significant amount of time to this work.”
Tokumbo Shobowale began employment with Fordham in Oct. 2023 as the university’s senior vice president, treasurer. He also shared his excitement to begin work. “One of the aspects of this work that I appreciate the most is being able to help others
to brainstorm and develop action plans,” he said. While working with local governments can be challenging, Proulx says he is committed to the process and connecting himself with the university. “I am committed to being available to the Fordham community,” said Proulx. “I will be talking to as many people as I can; my door is open, and I invite people to reach out to chat anytime.”
JACK MCDONALD/THE FORDHAM
Executive President Eron Maltzman and Vice President Ava Cascella led USG's weekly meeting.
MARY HAWTHORN/THE FORDHAM
TikTok’ s Temporary Ban Sparks Conversation
FROM TIKTOK, PAGE 1
expect it to take effect, saying that the government has been threatening a ban on TikTok for years. On Aug. 6, 2020, President Trump issued an executive order addressing supposed threats posed by Tiktok. The order stated: “This data collection threatens to allow the Chinese Communist Party access to Americans’ personal and proprietary information — potentially allowing China to track the locations of Federal employees and contractors, build dossiers of personal information for blackmail,
and conduct corporate espionage.”
When asked about the safety of the app, Fordham students mentioned that there were other apps collecting their data, and that they felt there is a bias towards TikTok among government officials due to the nature of conversation on the app.
“On TikTok, there are so many opinions about a lot
ing American politics, and I think politicians are afraid of what that can do for the future of American politics,” said Nour Idris, FCLC ’26.
Professor Mathias Klang
of Fordham University’s Department of Communication and Media Studies focuses his research on the social impacts of technol ogy, activism and privacy in digital culture. “There is an overwhelming amount of information that says that the way in which data is presented to us by different forms of platforms, such as TikTok, is not very easy to understand and that we are not really aware of how technology is shaping our world view,” he said.
In regards to whether she felt the ban impeded her free speech, Sanjeda Neha,
FCLC ’27, said, “Not really, because I do not post anything important but I can see why people that are politically active on TikTok would feel that way.”
Some students are switching to other video-sharing apps, such as RedNote or Instagram Reels.
“The whole thing is suspicious, but I have RedNote now so I am fine,” said Fatima Kamara FCRH ’25.
Neha recalled using the app on her way home from work, as she usually does, when the app suddenly became unusable.
“I was expecting it, but I did not expect it to happen two
hours before [the 19th],” she said.
Students who had deleted the app before its return expressed regret and grief about doing so, some even joking about their ability to now turn their full attention to their studies and “lock in.”
In the opinion of many Fordham students and that of Klang, the Tiktok ban is not likely to affect the survival of the app.
“Yes. I think TikTok will survive. I think you will have a couple of competitors trying to come in, but I do not think it is the end of TikTok,” said Klang.
Governor Hochul Announces Subway Changes
9:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m., implementing barriers on subway platforms to protect riders, stopping fare evasion, improving lighting throughout the stations and reinforcing New York mental health laws to aid individuals with severe mental illnesses who wander the subway platforms and trains. Safety on public transportation is a pressing concern, and Fordham students have some strong opinions on the matter shaped by their own experiences navigating the city’s most crowded transit system.
Fordham students had mixed opinions on the initiative.
“To hear that Kathy Hochul little reassuring that we could resolve it,” said Crystal Wu, GSB ’25, executive vice president of the Commuter Student Association (CSA).
The opinions that stood out the most were on fare evasion, believing that it was an
irresolvable issue. One student pointed out how law enforcement can’t realistically stop it. “At its most integral level, people hop the fare because they think of it as not worth the service being provided. Instead of funding more law enforcement or spiked turnstile barriers, her administration should be attempting to resolve the core of irresponsibility,” said Michael Buana, GSB ’27.
Others pointed out the initiative’s futile attempts to meet its goals and the ignorance towards other major problems in New York. “While structural improvements like platform barriers and better lighting are long overdue, what riders really need are
housing, accessible healthcare, and community-based support services,” said Kellen Zeng, GSB ’25, executive president of CSA.
However, when it comes
to the implementation of the protective barriers, most consider the implementation of these as useless. “We need barriers that fully block access to the tracks at all times and only open when trains arrive at the station,” said Bipasana Poudel, FCRH ’25. Some alluded back to the previous attempts from last year by the MTA to establish platform metal barriers to prevent people from falling onto the rails, which were met with negativity as passengers complained about how these metal barriers were not wide enough and did not cover enough area to actually prevent people from falling.
Many Fordham students declared, at one point or the other, to have felt unsafe or in danger when utilizing the subway. Some believed that the deployment of more police patrols in the subway would only create more tension among the passengers and further contribute to the
environment of fear and dread that they already experience. Others also pointed out the
patrols in maintaining order and preventing people from committing fare evasion acts, the same acts that Governor Hochul is actively trying to solve. Very few argued in favor of more police patrols on the subways or feeling safer while having cops on the train cars.
While Governor Hochul’s attempts to improve the situation on the New York subways and make everyone safe are admirable, many Fordham students believe the state should focus on broader societal issues, and although commuter students and most in general recognize a question about whether these changes will bring meaningful improvements on the city’s subways still remains.
Graduate School Integration Set to Start This Month
FROM GSRE, PAGE 1
university decided that GRE was no longer viable as a free standing school within the university,” said McAloon. “Because ministry typically isn’t a high paying profession, the university has been generous in offering much needbased scholarships and the like to our students.” The majority of these students are Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant Christian ministers
The COVID-19 pandemic, departure of the GRE’s previous dean and declining enrollment have contributed to the school’s financial challenges. “GRE has long been financially subsidized by the university, because it is a small unit and most of its students are in ministry of one sort or another,” said McAloon.
Regardless of the school’s
projected integration this year, McAloon says he, along with the staff at the GRE, are committed to ensuring GRE students have a smooth transition and the resources they need to successfully complete their degrees. Several courses currently offered by the GRE are vital for degrees earned in three primary concentrations in GSE. Additionally, GRE students matriculating this year will still be honored with a GRE-specific graduation diploma ceremony this coming May.
“Currently, discussions are ongoing regarding possible relocations of GRE deg rees and faculty,” said McAloon.
“Regarding current faculty, as acting dean, I have been working with the provost’s office to facilitate facultyto-faculty conversations regarding where current GRE
degrees may be housed.”
“[A] faculty working group has offered a draft proposal for integrating the two schools, which includes identifying which GRE programs and courses would be strong additions to GSE,” said Bob Howe, associate vice president for media & public relations. The faculty group is made up of both GSE and GRE professors who work to ensure students of the GRE are able to successfully complete their coursework. “Faculty and administrators at GRE began to explore constructive and practical paths forward, in conversation with one another and with faculty and administrators in other academic units at Fordham,” added Howe.
As of this semester, the Office of the Provost has paused admission of new
students to the GRE and recommended faculty find a new academic unit within the university or find a new position in education. Furthermore, while the Office of the Provost has declared the GRE unsustainable, they have yet to provide adequate
the claim, according to meeting minutes from the Faculty Senate’s meeting on Jan. 17.
has not complied with the plain requirements of the University Statutes, nor moved as required by Appendix 1 of the Statutes in cases involving termination of continuous employment,” according to the action minutes from the senate meeting.
President Tania Tetlow and University Provost Dennis Jacobs will be invited by the
Senate to the next meeting, where they will be questioned. In the meeting, the Faculty Senate unanimously passed the following resolution reinformation annually, according to the meeting notes:
“Therefore, be it resolved that the Senate requires asthe Provost and the President of the University that the
President of the University and other agents of the university will share budget, admissions and other data annually with the faculty of each each academic unit to consult about and share in meaningful long-term planning.”
This is a developing story. Updates can be found at thefordhamram.com.
FROM SUBWAY, PAGE 1
JACK MCDONALD/THE FORDHAM RAM Hochul wants to focus on saftey in the subways.
FROM GYM, PAGE 1
or the Rose Bowl, the connection is clear.”
The history of Rose Hill Gymnasium is deeply connected with the university’s growth. Initially, during World War II, the building was used as a U.S Army barracks. However, it was repurposed and opened as a gym on Jan. 16, 1925, following the vision of architect Emile G. Perrot. On its opening day, the
100 Years of Fordham Athletics
Fordham basketball team had their first game and defeated Boston College with a score of 46-16.
Since then, the Rose Hill Gym has been the place of -
ments in Fordham’s history.
Marianny Solis, FCRH ’26, said, “The [anniversary] game was really close, and at one point, we all stood up to cheer for Fordham. The activities really brought us
all closer as students, faculty, and players. It felt like we were all part of something bigger.”
As Fordham looks towards the future, “Rose Hill will continue to be a unifying location for the campus as a whole and a historic place in which our alumni and greater NYC can come together and cheer on the Rams,” Guthrie said.“It’s a true home court advantage!”
Fordham Restructures Outreach Programs
grew from there. GO! has lived in many homes since then — it was once under Student Affairs, then it was a club in the 1980s and in the late ’90s GO! found a home in Campus Ministry. GO! moved to CCEL about five years ago.
GO! has had a powerful impact on student participants. Alexa Davidson, FCRH ’25, said that GO! has helped her “develop [her] leadership skills and a… foundational love for this program.” She has been involved with GO! since her first year at Fordham. This academic year, she is a co-chair of the GO! Director’s Advisory Board, working to improve the backbone of the program and support students involved in GO! projects.
Abigail Wilson, FCLC ’25, is the Lincoln Center Co-Chair for the Director’s Advisory Board. She works directly with Gownley and other GO! coordinators to create plans for formations, fundraising, and marketing. She offers peer support to GO! leaders and compiles toolkits, organizes logistics, and facilitates committee meetings with the Rose Hill co-chairs.
Now, GO! is making yet another transition, this time back to Campus Ministry. Fordham University’s new department of external affairs will house CCEL and Fordham’s government relations team in order to help Fordham make more of a positive impact, according to a Fordham News article. Davidson said that “GO! was determined to stay in the Office of Mission Integration and Ministry instead of moving along with CCEL.”
The decision received mixed reactions from GO! student leaders and administration.
Gownley explained, “GO! need[ed] more administrative support.” Many of GO!’s partner organizations are Catholic, such as Dolores Mission in Los Angeles and the Kino Border Initiative in Arizona. Campus Ministry may be able to offer more support in partnerships and in interfacing with foreign governments.
The transition to Campus Ministry will not have much effect on the program, according to Gownley. He and the other GO! staff will answer to a new supervisor, but they will “continue the mission of Global Outreach as it has always operated,” he said. “The program needs the support and now it will be supported by an office that knows the history of Global Outreach and has a shared mission.”
Although the mission and organization of GO! will not change, Davidson and Wilson, who have worked with GO! for years, feel that moving GO! to Campus Ministry is a mistake. Davidson is glad that GO! is staying in the Office of Mission Integration and Ministry.
“I do worry that the label of GO! under Campus Ministry may send the wrong messages and deter students from getting involved,” she said. As someone who is not religious, Davidson feels that she would likely not have participated in GO! had it been housed under Campus Ministry.
“Mission trips have underlying tones of superiority and savior complexes,” said Wilson. “GO! challenges these spiritual mission trips by acting as a service and cultural immersion program rooted in social justice awareness and community engagement through the of Ignatian tradition: education, social justice, community, simple living and spirituality.” While spirituality is a theme of GO!, “why are we suddenly shifting the program from a center that values civic engagement and community [CCEL] to a center that values self-exploration [Campus Ministry]?”
“Campus Ministry and CCEL are siblings,” said Gownley. The two organ-
“there’s not going to be any of this ‘we don’t work with you anymore,’” he said. “GO! is moving to a familiar
Fordham Hires New Title IX Coordinator
By NORA MALONE NEWS EDITOR
Fordham University has announced that they will be hiring Elizabeth Fanelli as the new Title IX Coordinator. Currently, the interim Title IX Coordinator. According to Associate Vice President for Media and Public Relations Bob Howe, there will be a transition period from Burris to Fanelli, due to ongoing Title IX cases.
According to their website, the department focuses on “ensuring the University complies with Fordham’s non-discrimination policy, including sexual misconduct and harrassment, as well as the local, state and federal laws and regulations related to sexual violence/harassment in compliance with Gender Equity and Title IX.”
Fanelli previously served as the equity & compliance investigator and deputy Title IX coordinator at Ramapo College of New Jersey.
This is an updating story.
CRISTINA STEFFANIZZI/THE FORDHAM RAM Fordham’s gym celebrated 100 years earlier this month.
MARY HAWTHORN/THE FORDHAM RAM
The GO! program is returning to the Campus Ministry umbrella after being under CCEL.
Serving the Fordham University campus and community since 1918
The Fordham Ram is the university journal of record. The mission of The Fordham Ram is to provide a forum for the free and open exchange of ideas in service to the community and to act as a student advocate. The Fordham Ram is published every Wednesday during the academic year to all campuses. Website
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Storytelling is an intrinsic and essential practice for human communication. Journalism is an important form of storytelling, especially when it comes to how we write news and consume it. However, sensationalism, the use of manipulative and shocking stories and language to draw audience interest, has overtaken the credibility of journalism and begun to dominate public perception.
Journalists are tasked with investigating and presenting stories to the public in an engaging, informative and accurate manner. As attention spans shorten and we become overloaded with information, they often take shortcuts, pursuing storytelling that favors emotional appeals and dramatics over facts.
Do you ever feel anxious or on edge when reading the news? Besides the general insane state of the world right now, the language journalists use greatly contributes to the anxiety we feel when digesting current events.
Sensationalized media often hooks me on social media. In the midst of doom scrolling, I find myself suddenly jolted from my state of emotional numbness, intrigued by an eye-catching headline. In an era where social media increasingly dominates storytelling and news consumption, the perfect storm for sensationalism is brewing.
OPINION
From the Desk | Caitlin Thomas
I’m Sick of Sensationalism
You probably care about the news if you’ve made it this far in the article, and you’re right to care. News directly affects our daily lives and interactions with friends, family, coworkers and communities. Because of this, we should demand accurate, informative and not emotionally exhaustive news.
Unfortunately, simply logging off social media and relying on information directly from news apps and websites isn’t necessarily the solution. For example, a quick Google search of “NYC news” and the top two headlines of the day for me read: “Everyone is scared…” and “Man stabbed repeatedly on subway.”
I’ve seen this shift toward stories highlighting increased unrest and violence. When I read these, I feel pessimistic and emotionally exhausted. Is this really how the world is right now?
Covering stories about crime and violence is important, but there must be a balance. There is weight to the stories we tell. Journalism directly affects the public perception of reality. If our storytelling and news most often generate pessimism and hopelessness, we should not just be critical of the state of the world but also of the way we are reporting reality.
Learning to read between the lines, recognizing when we’re feeling emotionally overwhelmed by
the news and being critical about the content we engage with are always ways to develop media literacy skills. Even if you have no interest in developing your ability to read the media critically, learning about how sensationalism draws us in and affects our emotional well-being exposes the fact that we should not rely solely on the news to learn about the world around us. With sensationalism and information overload, we have the blessing and curse of heightened awareness. Knowing this, we must be intentional about what we give our attention and energy to. Do not just let clickbait tell you how to feel; break out of the sensationalism bubble and try your hand at the real world.
When I’m feeling over-
Editorial | Contraceptive Access
whelmed with the state of the time with a friend, grabbing dinner on Arthur Ave. or doing something in the community, like volunteering or just striking up a conversation with a stranger, helps me recognize the good. Although we are living through unprecedented and often scary times, there are still ways to not let sensationalism get the best of us. Overall, the rise in sensationalism reminds us of the importance of responsible journalism. Entertainment value should not outweigh education and accuracy. If journalists are not going to be responsible reporters, it’s on us to be responsible, mindful consumers.
Cura Personalis, Just Not in the Bedroom
It is safe to say that just about every Fordham student has a long and storied history with the Jesuit motto cura personalis (“care for the whole person” in English).
After all, the phrase — meant to embody the Jesuits’ foundational goal to care for the spiritual, physical and intellectual needs of their students — has been neatly pasted onto just about every banner, pamphlet and display scattered across the hallowed greystone
outward commitment to the promotion and actualization of this lofty goal on Fordham’s part, the Executive Board of The Fordhamversity is failing to live up to this creed through their striking refusal to provide the student body contraceptives.
Fordham’s current policy when it comes to contraceptive access can be characterized at best as quite restrictive, with the current version of the Student Handbook stating, “[W]hile personal possession of contraceptives, contraceptive devices and/or birth control, in any form, is not prohibited, distribution is prohibited on Fordham University property, using University resources, and at University-sponsored events” in accordance with “Church teachings on reproductive issues.”
In other words, nowhere on Rose Hill’s sprawling 85-acre campus can students receive free and safe access to condoms, oral contraceptives (like “Plan B” or “the Pill”) or other prescription birth control methods.
It should also be noted that contraception is likewise sparse in terms of options. The recent closure of the Fordham Road Walgreens means that there is now no place to purchase Planscription within a reasonable walking distance of any of Rose Hill’s gates. Additionally, many students, especially those in red post-Dobbs legislation, may not be able to get safe contraceptive access at home. The Trump administration’s recent decision to shut down the government-run website reproductiverights.gov has limited the student population’s access to information about reproductive health issues like birth control, abortion or even cancer screenings.
To be sure, one can always level the argument that since Fordham is a Catholic university, its administration, health center and students should be beholden, as they currently are, to the Catholic Church’s more conservative and abstinence-focused teachings on sexuality — after all, the choice to come here was an elective decision for most. Yet, this sort of Jesuit idealism is not just archaic in light of contemporary sexual norms, but is also ultimately dangerous for Fordham students. The reality at play here is that college students are going to be sexually active whether one threatens them with the prospect of hell or not. A 2019 American College Health Association survey notes that about half of all
college students have had some sort of sexual encounter in the past year. In fact, Fordham is, for better or for worse, possibly contributing to these high levels of sexual activity through their new and revised overnight guest policy that allows for overnight visitors to be of the opposite sex:
students an increased degree of sexual liberty.
Considering these realities then (i.e., that Fordham students will be sexually active whether one likes it or not, and that these very same students may lack substanof safe contraception), it is in Fordham’s best interest to adopt a more progressive stance that proactively looks out for the reproductive health and safety of their students by providing them with contraceptive access.
In fact, it would not be completely unheard of for a Jesuit school to provide those under its care with such access, as many Catholic institutions — including President Tania Tetlow’s former college (Loyola University of New employees some form of access and/or coverage for contraception under their insurance policies. However, should Fordham’s administration continue to adhere to an archaic policy that denies students access to safe and
of sexually active students up for serious and dangerous physiological consequences. Consequences that come in the form of Fordham
students being at an increased risk of contracting sexually transmitted illnesses because of their lack of access to condoms. Or, more significantly, consequences that may manifest themselves in the form of unplanned pregnancies that could lead students to seek out potentially unsafe abortions. These disastrous consequences have certainly not been lost on the greater Fordham populace, with the Fordham University Young Democratic Socialists of America (YDSA) notably expressing their opposition to these consequences of the university’s restrictive policy. Last semester, event where they distributed Plan B to students and publicized their petition demanding change to the current restrictive iteration of Fordham’s contraceptive policy. When asked about the underlying motivations for holding this controversial event for a previous article in the Ram, Matthew Smith, FCRH ’27, co-chair and founder of the YDSA stated, “We need much more comprehensive sexual education on safe sex practices, like using condoms, birth control, Plan B, how and when to use it, what is a safe dosage — all of these things should be readily available to students, especially when they’re coming into college.” Considering this, it is more than fair to say that if Fordham is really in the business of cura personalis (i.e., caring for the whole person), then they must abandon their anti-contraception policies to adequately meet the reproductive health needs of their student populace.
OPINION
National Security Risk or Public Forum: The Politics of TikTok
By TAHIYAT RAISA CONTRIBUTING WRITER
The recent ban of the social media platform TikTok and its immediate comeback just 14 hours later has sparked debates all over the world. These debates center on topics such as national security, free speech and political opportunism. Many individuals believe the whole TikTok ban scandal was planned out by President Donald Trump. On Jan. 19, the United States government enacted a ban on the popular social media videosharing platform known as TikTok, expressing and stating their concerns over individuals’ data privacy and the potential -
ment on Americans. However, in a very dramatic but expected turn of events, President Trump celebrated the app’s return 14 hours later by thanking TikTok and welcoming the CEO of ByteDance, a Chinese Internet technology company, to his inauguration on Jan. 20.
This rapid policy shift presents a fundamental problem: our government’s lack of understanding of what they’re doing when it comes to regulating social media platforms. While perhaps their concerns about data security are valid, the sudden ban of TikTok, followed by a fast and immediate comeback, grabs the public’s attention and signals more about President Trump and the government’s political protect the people of America and their data.
While TikTok has long been investigated for its data practices, it is not alone in collecting extensive amounts of information from its users. Other social media platforms that actually originated in the
By LORESA ZEQIRAJ CONTRIBUTING WRITER
relief from the cycle of violence, is ultimately duct tape on a totaled car. It might slow the im-
address the underlying issues that continue to fuel this decades-
tempting to hope that these deals might signal a shift toward a lasting peace, it’s most likely not any meaningful change. This is especially true when we consider the broader political dynamics, both within Israel and Palestine, and in the rest of the Middle East.
With the new administration of President Donald Trump in place, there’s an added layer of complexity to the situation. Trump’s foreign policy Israel and Palestine, has been characterized by a strong pro-Israel stance. In 2017, his administration recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, a highly controversial move that angered Palestinians and much of the Arab world. Given that
U.S., such as Facebook and Instagram, operate under similar business models as TikTok. Yet they rarely face the same level of investigation from the U.S. government. If the data privacy of the American people was truly the government’s primary concern, the next logical step would be extensive legislation targeting all major technology companies. However, rather than doing that, the government seems to be focused primarily on TikTok.
Fordham University adjunct English professor, Stu Watson, suggested, “The suppression of an entire arena of speech strikes me as the rare example where the term ‘censorship’ actually applies.” His concerns highlight the broader issue of bans like this setting a dangerous precedent for the restriction of free expression, despite the constitutional rights of Americans, under the guise of national security.
On the other hand, political science professor at Fordham University, Mark Schneider, has merit and validity in the ban, stating, “There was also a risk that a popular app connected to the Chinese state could shape public opinion among younger people in ways that serve the Chinese Government’s interests or interests of their allies.”
However, despite this stance, Professor Schneider acknowledges that the implementation of the TikTok ban and the way it was handled was heavilying after one platform may not be the right response, but it does suggest we need to think about how to manage a few large platforms shaping so much information people receive.” Professor Schneider believes that the U.S.
Trump’s administration previously condemned the Hamas group, it’s unlikely that any leadership would do much to address the core political issues, especially since the Trump administration is openly focused on strengthening ties with Israel. Under a Trump presidency, as a genuine opportunity for dialogue and more as a temporary pause to allow for rearming and preparing for the next round ofing of Israel might embolden Israeli hardliners who want to press forward with settlement expansion or military action in Gaza, which would only make long-term peace seem more distant. Moreover, Trump’s request that countries like Jordan and Egypt take in Palestinians as refugees insinuates that he doesn’t intend to ensure the security of the land.
Aside from the immediate Israeli-Palestinian context, the entire regional landscape also plays a big role in
Countries like Egypt, Qatar and
government should focus more on broader regulations of data protection rather than targeting as TikTok.
The whole TikTok incident has also highlighted the fact that our lawmakers aren’t as well educated on the digital world as they claim to be. As Professor Watson pointed out, “It reveals how little our congressional leaders understand the internet/app space they are attempting to regulate.”
This lack of digital understanding among U.S. policymakers raises
technology in the future.
Many young voters, especially the Gen Z voting bloc, are likely to see the handling of the TikTok ban as something that was politically motivated and orchestrated by President Trump. The app is more than just a social media platform for this younger generation; it is a cultural hub, a source of income for many creators on the platform and an important tool for global communication among these young individuals. The government’s inconsistent stance destroys trust and suggests that the political interests of the government outweigh the concerns of millions of American users.
The controversy over TikTok “crony capitalism” on policymaking, as shown by Lloyd Green in his recent opinion piece for “The Guardian.” Green states that “Trump’s delay contravenes the law Congress passed last spring, which set a 19 January 2025 divestment deadline.”
This delay, which was bypassed without meaningful progress toward the sale of TikTok’s U.S. operations, raises critical concerns about the prioritization of personal and political interests
over threats to national security. Green further argues that “For Trump, money, votes and vengeance appear to have supplanted national interest,” stating President Trump’s ongoing
Dance. In other words, these actions undermine public trust in bipartisan legislation and the Supreme Court’s rulings, showing and personal gain.
Furthermore, there have been international repercussions of the TikTok ban that cannot be overlooked. Mark Sellman from “The Times” truly emphasizes this global economic impact when he stated, “It’s going to directly impact the UK economy as brands already selling on TikTok Shop in the U.S. will have to retreat, and those that were eyeing up the opportunity will be unable to address this 340 million potential customers.” Sellman later elaborates that many in Britain, as well as other businesses around the world, rely heavily on the U.S. market for their revenue and also for their audience reach. The sudden nature of the ban has also left these TikTok creators scared due to the
fact that their careers are tied to TikTok.
Moving forward, what we need is thoughtful and well-informed legislation that addresses the broader issue of data privacy and its transparency across all social media platforms, not just one targeted app. Professor Watson suggests that “large-scale data privacy reforms that regulate the way all social media companies use the data they accumulate” are essential rather than simply singling out individual apps based on their own personal geopolitical concerns. In the end, the TikTok ban is a cautionary tale about the risky intersection of politics and technology. It underscores the urgent need for U.S. policymakers to engage with technology experts to fully understand the social media platforms they seek to regulate. They should create comprehensive policies that balance national security with the people’s individual freedoms without risking their right to free speech. Without these implementations, the U.S. risks further alienating young users and undermining the credibility of future technology-related regulations.
TahiyatRaisa,FCRH’28,isanEnglish major from Queens, New York.
can impact whether a ceaseexample, Egypt has traditionally acted as a mediator, while humanitarian aid to Gaza and has ties with Hamas. Iran has supported Hamas militarily, contributing to the ongoing military buildup in the region and within the past year. Any sigcountries could easily spill over into Gaza and jeopardize the countries are engaged in their own internal or external con-
political capital to enforce peace or actively fuel further violence by supporting one side over the other.
term. It’s intended to save lives and prevent the kind of destruction that Gaza has faced in previous wars, but only if both parties follow through. Now, only a few days in, there are still reports of Israel breaking the
ing stops, the underlying grievances remain: the blockade on Gaza, the status of Jerusalem, Israeli settlements in the West Bank and the lack of a two-state
to address these core issues, and without meaningful political negotiation they merely set the stage for the next outbreak of violence. Without pressure on both sides, especially Israel, to address the political realities, and without holding Hamas accountable for its attacks on Israeli civilians, there’s little
lief. Moreover, regional powers
like Iran, Qatar and Egypt have their own interests, which complicates any potential for longterm peace. Ultimatly, the cycle it’s unlikely we’ll see lasting peace unless shifts happen
As long as the fundamental issues remain unaddressed and regional turmoil continues to impact the dynamics remain fragile at best. Peace, in the truest sense, still feels like a distant dream, no matter what the headlines say.
Loresa Zeqiraj, FCRH ’28, is an international studies major from Yorktown, New York..
Students protest for Palestine at Fordham College at Lincoln Center.
NORA MALONE/THE FORDHAM RAM
CRISTINA STEFANIZZI/THE FORDHAM RAM
TikTok has played varied roles in the American political landscape.
By
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OPINION
Thirteenth Amendment, we
aration for reintegration into
further away from any goal of
The $9 Toll Isn’t Destroying NYC
minority of people who the toll
time or your wallet, you’d al-
MEET THE STAFF
Allison Schneider is a junior from New Palestine, Indiana, majoring in English with a concentration in creative writing and a minor in political science. She joined the Ram as a copy editor for Volume 104, served as Assistant Opinion Editor for Volume 105 and Managing Editor for Volume 106. She is honored to work alongside her talented peers as Editor-in-Chief of Volume 107! Outside of the Ram, Allison enjoys visiting used bookstores and taking long walks through any of NYC’s wonderful parks.
SOPHIE MASELLI | PRODUCTION EDITOR
Sophie Maselli is a junior from Milford, Connecticut, majoring in English with a concentration in creative writing and a minor in public and professional writing. She began working for the Ram during Volume 105 as an opinion writer and copy editor and then added on the position of Digital Producer for Volume 106. Sophie is now excited to work as Production Editor of Volumeing to show tunes or writing a future bestseller.
MARY HAWTHORN | MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR
Mary Hawthorn is a junior from Greenwich, Connecticut, majoring in political science and English with an honors concentration in Catholic studies. She served as the Photo Editor for Volume 106, and is eager to start her role as Multimedia Director for Volume 107. Outside of the Ram, Mary enjoys playing on the Fordham women’s squash team, volunteering with Fordham Circle K and spending time with friends.
Nora Malone is a sophomore from Brooklyn and Boston, but currently calls D.C. home. She is a medieval studies and English double major with a concentration in American Catholic studies. She joined the Ram in Volume 105 as a contributing writer before becoming News Editor for Volume 106. She is excited to continue in her role as News Editor for Volume 107. When she’s not in B-52 you
the Le Pain Quotidien next to Bryant Park.
Caitlin Thomas is a sophomore from Portland, Oregon, pursuing a double major in communications and urban studies. She joined the Ram as a contributing writer and copy editor during Volume 106 and is thrilled to take on the role of Assistant News Editor for Volume 107. Outside of the Ram, Caitlin is actively involved with CCEL, works in the WFUV newsroom and enjoys exploring the vibrant streets of New York City.
Indranil Kar is a junior from St. Louis, Missouri, who is majoring in political science and a minor in Arabic. He joined the Ram as a contributing Opinion writer for Volume 105, before becoming a staff writer for Volume 106. He is honored to work alongside his peers as Opinion Editor of Volume 107. Outside of the Ram, Indranil enjoys reading, skateboarding and exploring New York City with his friends.
Mia Tero is a junior from Eliot, Maine. She is double majoring in journalism and communications and culture studies. She joined The Fordham Ram as a contributing writer for the News and Opinion section for Volume 106 and is joining the Ram Volume 107 as the Culture Editor. Outside of the Ram, Mia enjoys spending time with friends, reading and exploring the city.
Adithi Vimalanathan is a junior from Jersey City, New Jersey, pursuing majors in English and economics. She served as Assistant News Editor for Volume 106 and will be stepping into the role of Managing Editor for Volume 107. Outside of the Ram, Adithi is a videographer and producer with WFUV Public Radio. When she’s not work-
JONAH RING | EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Jonah Ring is a junior from Norfolk, Virginia, pursuing a degree in theology, philosophy and art history. He originally joined the Ram via Sports his freshman year, eventually becoming Volume 106’s Sports Editor. For Volume 107, he will begin work as the Ram’s Editorial Director. When he is not writing painfully pretentious articles for the Ram, Jonah can often be found wandering through some random Buckley, Ritchy Mitch or A Tribe Called Quest.
DIANA JUAREZ | BUSINESS DIRECTOR
Diana Juarez is a sophomore from Phoenix, Arizona, majoring in business administration with a double concentration in new media and marketing with a minor in music. She joined the Ram during Volume 105 and is excited to return as the Business Director for Volume 107. In her free time, Diana enjoys listening to music, exploring new restaurants and spending time with her friends in the city.
Andrew Massie is a sophomore from Denver, Colorado, who is majoring in journalism with a minor in digital technology and emerging media. He joined the Ram as a contributing writer for Volume 106 and now serves as the Features Editor for Volume 107. Andrew looks forward to collaborating with the Ram’s talented team. Beyond the Ram, he is involved with WFUV and enjoys exploring new music, watching documentaries, skiing, eating great food and engaging with New York’s art and culture.
Sienna Reinders is a freshman from Northern California, pursuing a double major in journalism and political science and a minor in Spanish. She has been pursuing journalism since her sophomore year of high school and is excited to continue in college. She started as a contributing writer at the Ram and has since gotten a position as an Assistant News Editor. When she is not writing, you can find her running, crocheting or drinking coffee at Rodrigue’s.
Stuart Cremer is a junior from Mountain View, California, majoring in English with a creative writing concentration and minoring in philosophy and environmental studies. They joined the Ram for
serving as an Assistant Opinion Editor for Volume 107. Outside of the Ram, they are editor-in-chief of the Ampersand and enjoy reading, the great outdoors, trying new restaurants in NYC and having great opinions.
a sophomore from Ocean Township, New Jersey,
in finance. She joined The Fordham Ram as a contributing writer for the Culture section during Volume 106 and will now serve as the
exploring new restaurants in
and
NORA MALONE | NEWS EDITOR
ANDREW MASSIE | FEATURES EDITOR
CAITLIN THOMAS | ASST. NEWS EDITOR
SIENNA REINDERS | ASST. NEWS EDITOR
INDRANIL KAR | OPINION EDITOR
STUART CREMER | ASST. OPINION EDITOR
Abigail Adams is a junior from Alexandria, Virginia, majoring in philosophy with a double joined the Ram as a contributing writer for Volume 106 and now serves as an Assistant Opinion Editor for Volume 107. Outside of the Ram, Abby spends her time fangirling over her French Press, reading and re-reading C.S. Lewis and hosting dinner parties with her friends.
ABIGAIL ADAMS | ASST. OPINION EDITOR
MIA TERO | CULTURE EDITOR
Chelsea DeLalla is
majoring
Culture Editor for Volume 107. Outside of her work with the Ram, Chelsea enjoys
Manhattan, watching newly released films
going on runs with her roommate Parker.
CHELSEA DELALLA | CULTURE EDITOR
MEET THE STAFF
Erynn Sweeney is a sophomore from Cypress, California, majoring in international political economy. She joined the Ram as a copy editor for Volume 105, became Assistant Opinion Editor during Volume 106 and will serve as an Assistant Culture Editor for Volume 107. Outside B-52, she loves playing Just Dance, search-
Elizabeth (Ellie) Collins is a freshman from Wilmington, Delaware, majoring in English. She joined the Ram as a contributing writer for Volume
semester and will serve as an Assistant Sports Editor for Volume 107. When she is not writing articles, she can be found watching a rom-com, calling her mom, shopping in the city with friends, reading, going on long walks or rewatching Sam
Jacob Wolfer is a junior from Fairfax, Virginia, majoring in English and history on the pre-law track. He first joined the Ram during Volume 106 as a copy editor and contributing writer, and will serve as Co-Copy Chief for Volume 107. Jacob enjoys spending time with friends and coaching baseball during the summer for his high school coach’s travel team.
Washington, D.C. and is double majoring in English and psychology, with a potential minor 106 and for Volume 107, she will be an Executive Copy Editor. Outside of the Ram, Emma is presirecently founded on campus. Emma enjoys reading fantasy series, watching the Mets and consuming copious amounts of ramen in Manhattan.
Christian Phillips is a junior from West Palm Beach, Florida, majoring in film and television with a concentration in television. He was a staff writer for the Culture section for Volume 106 and is joining Volume 107 as Video Editor. Outside of the Ram, Christian enjoys reading, writing and watching movies and also serves as Publicist for Fordhamtive for the Mimes and Mummers.
Hannah Sullivan is a freshman from Boston, Massachusetts. She is majoring in English. She was a contributing writer for the Culture section of Volume 106 and is joining the Ram Volume 107 as a Digital Producer. Outside of the Ram, she enjoys knitting, crocheting and watching movies.
the Ram as a contributing news writer for Volumemester. He now serves as an Advertising Director for the Fordham Gaelic Society and the Gaelic Football Alumni Ambassadors program.
contributing writer for Volume 106 and now serves as an Advertising Director for Volume 107. Outside -
and running in the Botanical Garden. He can also out new VR simulations.
Grace McCarron is a sophomore from Manhattan, American studies. Outside of the Ram, she is a beat reporter and on-air host for WFUV Sports, and a University Ambassador campus tour guide with Rose Hill Society. She has been a contributing writer for the Ram since her freshman year and is so excited to start her new role as Sports Editor. Outside of the Ram, she enjoys watching sports, reading and exploring the city with her friends and family.
the Ram as a contributing writer for the Sports section for Volume 106, and will serve as an Assistant Sports Editor for Volume 107. Outside of the Ram, he spends his time watching sports and movies, while also being an avid golfer.
Connecticut, who is majoring in English. She joined the Ram as a copy editor for Volume 106, and is now serving as Co-Copy Chief for Volume 107. Outside of the Ram, Sarah is involved in the Ampersand writing and bookclub, Rambling House creative writing club and the design team for the Fordham Undergraduate Research Journal. She can also be found with her head often buried in a book.
Cristina Stefanizzi is a sophomore from Pelham, media and digital design and political science. She -
Volume 106. She is excited to work as Photo Editor for Volume 107. Cristina is passionate about journalism, having been Executive Editor of her town’s -
Haniyyah Usmani is a sophomore from the Bronx, She joined the Ram as a copy editor and opinion writer for Volume 105 and was a Digital Producer for Volume 106, a role she is excited to continue for Volume 107. Outside of the Ram, Haniyyah is the Arabic Club’s Executive Marketing Coordinator, a Fordham Career Center Ambassador and a member
Molly O’Connor is a freshman from Weymouth, Massachusetts, majoring in journalism. She joined the Ram as a contributing writer for the Opinion section for Volume 106, and she’s so excited to serve as a Digital Producer for Volume 107! Outside of the Ram, Molly loves to dance, go to con-
Violet Wallace is a sophomore from D.C, majoring in economics with a minor in digital technologies and emerging media. She is excited to join the Ram for Volume 107 as an Advertising Director. Outside of the Ram, she works on the design team for Fordham Undergraduate Research Journal and loves exploring the city.
CULTURE
Real Clothes, Real Lives: 200 Years of What Women Wore
By KAILEY SIGODA CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Fashion has always been more than looking good — it mirrors the changes in our society. The New York Historical Society’s exhibit, “Real Clothes, Real Lives,” shows the evolution of women’s lives through their wardrobes.
Composed of exclusive pieces from the Smith College Historic Clothing Collection, this disHome, Service, Public Dress, Rites of Passage and Pushing tells the story behind everyday fashion and the lives, struggles and accomplishments of the women who wore them.
Smith College professor, Kiki Smith, curated the collection, beginning with garments from the late 19th century at the entrance point of the exhibit. Coined with the motto, “All Work, No Play,” this era displayed the traditional practical cotton dresses designed to disguise stains, endure daily chores and adjust for pregnancies. These dainty, well-worn garments, like the ‘morning wrapper’ button-up dress, were designed for indoor use, exuding the historical notion of the 1890s that women belonged at home.
As you progress through the exhibit, the garments gradually shift from the private sphere of the home to the public realm of work and service. There
displayed, including waitress and nurse uniforms. Made of polyester with deep pockets and long hemlines, these 20th century uniforms represented the transition of women into the workforce as they began primarily domestic, “feminine” professions.
This exhibit also demonstrates the presence of societal rules for women. The Public Dress collection incorporated how women of the 19th and 20th centuries dressed according to class, age and race.
as poorer classes repaired the same garments for continual wear. This collection included plantation produced cotton
to World War II and a “rust pant suit” designed by Wrangler and worn by women as they entered the workforce alongside men.
The “Rites of Passage” collection varied in time and instead centered on how fashion supfor women. This featured grief attire for women in the 19th century, wedding wear from the 1970s and a modern quinceañera dress. This collection shows how dress codes evolved as women strayed from standard norms to embrace their identities.
The last section, “Pushing Boundaries”, showcases “rebelwear” representing opposition, protest and resistance by women. From 19th century women entering stereotypical male
roles to 70s fashion coinciding with key events like the Civil Rights movement, protests of the Vietnam War and environmentalism, women have rebelled through clothing. This activism continues through contemporary times with political t-shirts, showing the extent to which fashion has remained a source of identity and expression to inspire change.
Throughout this exhibit, each piece of clothing not only recounted the evolving roles and aspirations of women but also revealed how fashion has actively helped shape these social changes. The 1920s grey twopiece wool suit in the Pushing the gender norms of the 20th century and initiated a cultural shift in workplace dynamics for women. Similarly, the Go-Go dancer beaded costume from 1972 contributed to women’s rights and body positivity movements, as modeled by former Playboy Bunny, Gloria Steinem. This personal story from Pamela Bostelmann and many other original costume owners provided a unique sense of sincerity and actuality to the exhibit.
Many of the displayed garments balance practicality with style, catering to the diverse roles women were expected toton dresses were designed with loose sleeves to scrunch up during housework and were made of easily washable material due to the labor it took to heat water, rinse clothes and wring them to
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a black and white work dress with additional panels in the side and hem to expand for growth in size and height. This emphasis on functionality was also seen in the “Tan Riding Skirt” which was designed with the front fabric buttoned to one side, creating ease and modesty for participating in leisure activities.
One of the most powerful features of the exhibit was the intimate connection between the garments and identity. Information sheets accompanied about the garment, its purpose
At the bottom of each sheet, there were photos of women
the description. Authentic examples of women wearing the clothing on display helped vividly depict how these garments photos of women included in
the “Rites of Passage” collectioncial life moments like weddings and celebrations showcase not only the elegance of these garments but also the emotional held for the women who wore them.
“Real Clothes, Real Lives” is on exhibit until June 17 in the women’s history department of the New York Historical Society. a simple overview of changing fashion styles and invites us to explore how fashion, as for social change, has helped shape the way women are seen and how they see themselves.ments of personal and cultural growth. As women continue to identity, this exhibit is a reminder that fashion is not only who they are, but also who they have been and how they shape the world around them.
Defying Conformity: A “Wicked” Warning
By SOPHIE MASELLI PRODUCTION EDITOR
I was in the room with the part of my childhood, brows furrowed and eyes squinted as I tried to remember how to navigate iTunes. Finaland click the mouse on the “play” button in excitement. At eight years old, I didn’t have Spotify, but if I had, my Spotify Wrapped would have been entirely the Original Broadway Cast Recording of “Wicked.” Blasting from two speakers was the triumphant orchestra from the overture, and immediately, I was transported into Oz.
For my 13th birthday, my grandparents let me pick a Broadway show for them to take me to. Naturally, I chose “Wicked” and brought my sister along to New York City like Elphaba did to Glinda on the train to the Emerald City. Seeing the musical gave me a whole new perspective on the show. Before then, I was only familiar with the soundtrack. I didn’t know what the costumes or set looked like, nor had I realized there would be plotlines and plot twists not revealed within the music. I had been especially distressed over Glinda’s stage
persona, as she had always been my favorite of the two witches. Behind the emerald curtain of the score was a mean, jealous school girl, not the nice, popular girl I had assumed she was.
But one thing did stay the same after seeing the musi-
Fiyero for his arrogance and
Seeing the movie at 20 years old then gave me another new perspective on “Wicked.” I went to the movie theater with my grandparents and sister again, but also my mom, aunt and cousin — a full family affair dressed only in green, black and pink. I was elated to see the incredibly talented, Tony Award-winning Cynthia Erivo play the difElphaba, the misunderstood Wicked Witch of the West, and I was also curious to see if Ariana Grande would fully immerse herself in Glinda and keep her pop star image from slipping out. Both acexpectations. Erivo captured the strong-willed morality of Elphaba, risking everything for what she believes in, and used her experience as a Black woman to elevate her performance, comparing the prejudice Elphaba faces because
of her green skin to racism in real-world society. And Grande went back to her musical theatre roots, capturing the blissful ditziness of Glinda and the complexity of her need to be liked that clashes with her knowledge of what is truly right. Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth, the original Elphaba and Glinda on Broadway, even made a cameo which, of course, made me cry, even if it had been a little over the top with Menzel doing her iconic “Defying Gravity” battle cry. Naturally, I was brought to tears many more times during the movie.
But it wasn’t the same fun yet empowering musical I remembered from my childhood. Art always has a curtain that its true meaning hides behind, however obvious it may
Although the movie came out on Thanksgiving to pay homage to “The Wizard of Oz,” which is always aired on television that day, it came out a few weeks after the presidential election in which the man elected promised to legislate against certain marginalized groups of people. The plotline of the animals being alienated from Ozian society is relevant to the world we live in today, in the year 2025. Although the animals in Oz could
speak, were educated and intelligent, they were pushed out of society by the government. The Wizard began manipulating his citizens to fear the animals as if they posed a threat to their safety. This can directly compare to our own present society, where minorities are being ostracized, some even physically forced out of the country. Thus, this movie is relevant in teaching the importance of empathy to marginalized communities who stand to lose much.
The “Wicked” movie that came out in November of
come out this November, and I’m excited to see all the
new additions they make to the musical, as Erivo is said to have written an original song to elongate the second act. But it’s worth noting that this second part will come out just over a year after President Donald Trump was elected. This coming November, we’ll watch as more minorities are stripped of their rights, both on the screen and in our reality. In the Broadway show, the animal plotline succumbs to silence. There’s no resolution, no fight. I hope that in
address this plot hole and work towards a resolution. Hopefully, we will be able to gain inspiration to not succumb to silence ourselves.
SOPHIA YOERKS FOR THE FORDHAM RAM
Wicked is now the fifth highest grossing movie musical of all time.
CRISTINA STEFANIZZI/THE FORDHAM RAM
Women of yesterday and today “push the boundaries” of stereotypes placed upon them through fashion.
Parisian Postcards: Life Studying Abroad
By CLAIRE KRIEGER CULTURE EDITOR EMERITUS
One of the most vivid memories of my early childhood is related to the bath-
decorations of said bathroom.
walked into the bathroom painting of the Eiffel Tower.at TJ Maxx and not an ac-
entire article on the horrors
nitely better.
single apartments in the thirteenth arrondissement (ba-
neighborhood like Chelsea or Gramercy in New York City)
land with an apartment din-
year orientation was intense;
into a promise from my parents to take me there for my
Parisian life. The topic my interesting is the intricate dining system that exists in
abroad there.
over a year ago. The application process and all the deadlines created a sense of dread
sion and stress when trying
We also got to take a two day trip to the Loire Valley
There was a lot of moaning
know where to go or what to
know now. We went to see the
nitely worth the hype. Paris is a city of endless pos-
ing randomly and let the ever-
almost left me in tears. The -
clock hanging over my head many weekends to travel to oth-
gave me a printed calendar
need to try and make the best
got to see it in person for the
the eggs in the grocery store are (spoiler: they are not in the dairy section or refrigerated!). All that is left for me is to embrace my time abroad and make the best of it.
Mocktails Can Go Beyond Dry January
By MIA TERO CULTURE EDITOR
alternative drinks for a night a bar specifically centeredof Manhattan called Hekate sober bar offers a variety and more. The atmosphere
energy and magical charmplace in the city to visit with
gathering at home or simply to try something new. Here are a few of my and my
One of my favorite mocktails is a strawberry-lime rickey. This drink was a staple
college. A strawberry lime rickey is similar to a virgin
it taste a little more refreshing. The drink has strawberry
it is always good to have a re -
heat entirely to steep for 30
favorite part of this drink is
is with the addition of herbs like mint or sage. Herbs can change the taste of a drink
ale to add a new flavor to the mix.
A mocktail recommended lavender drink that he also
rant where he worked. This
soda water. To make the sim
able to make the lavender
ender as a garnish. One final recommenda-
The ingredients for this or rosemary. To make the follow the directions above control how sweet or tart o r to channel the energy
There are many places that serve mocktails in New York -
if they have the ingredients to make the drinks below. perfect for a relaxing movie
Another classic mocktail is may seem like a given in the
of fresh lavender blossoms. Combine these ingredients
before removing it from the
Mocktails can be a fun alcohol-free alternative for Dry January.
CLAIRE KRIEGER/THE FORDHAM RAM
Notre Dame is the perfect destination for students studying abroad.
CRISTINA STEFANIZZI/THE FORDHAM RAM
CULTURE
Seis del Sur and the Stories we tell about the Bronx
By ERYNN SWEENEY ASSISTANT CULTURE EDITOR
Located at the Museum of Bronx History, a quaint, historic brick house on Bainbridge Ave just twenty minutes north of Rose Hill via the Bx34, the Seis del Sur exhibit is small but powerful. It combines the work of “los seis,” a group of six Puerto Rican photojournalists from the South Bronx — Joe Conzo Jr., Ricky Flores, Angel Franco, Edwin Pagán, David González and Francisco Molina Reyes II. These men grew up in a period of rapid change, and, in many ways, deep turmoil in the Bronx.
One example of this turmoil highlighted in the photographs at the exhibit is the fires that ravaged the Bronx during the 1970s. Due to the fiscal crisis of the decade, redlined districts saw disinvestment in city services like firefighting. Six fire companies in the South Bronx closed, and many others were reduced in size. Fires started either from landlords burning their buildings for insurance money or from “lack of upkeep,” such as “a spark from faulty wiring” or “a gas leak.” Given the city’s stripping of resources to deal with fires, they spread quickly and caused intense damage — 80% of housing was destroyed and 250,000 people were displaced.
The fires were largely due to racist redlining policies, which marked areas inhabited by a majority of people of color as “hazardous.” These not so natural disasters illuminate the history of neglect, defunding and stereotyping experienced by
people in the South Bronx. “The Bronx was burnt. Drugs were rampant. Gangs were rampant,” said Conzo Jr. about growing up during the Bronx fires. Flores added, “Building after building, block after block began disappearing.” Gonzalez remembered, “I grew up always smelling wood burning, metal burning. It was a part of the atmosphere, you would always hear firetrucks zooming by at all hours of the night.”
One of the photos featured in the exhibit, “Rubble” by Carmen Mojica, shows some of the destruction the fires caused: abandoned buildings, some of them left halfway standing, others burned all the way to the ground, scraps of various materials spread everywhere and people left to pick up the scraps. Mojica would pass by these sights everyday when dropping her daughter off at daycare, and others like them were all too common in the years after the fires.
In Ricky Flores’ 1983 photograph “Building Decals on Fox. South Bronx,” two men stand outside an abandoned building with decals to cover up broken windows “so that it wouldn’t upset the commuters on the Bruckner, probably the very owners of the abandoned properties.”
It appears to be a cold day outside. One man stands with his hands clasped together, the other stands slightly behind looking as if he is trying to hold in laughter. The photo is accompanied by the caption, “We lived in a time of murderous absurdities.”
In some ways, it would
be easy to end the narrative here. The Bronx has a history of struggle, the end. However, los seis are not content with such an oversimplification. Without shying away from the defunding, discrimination and lack of resources Bronx communities face, they emphasize how these struggles strengthened community ties and led to action against injustice.
Francisco Molina Reyes II commented about this period in Bronx history: “It was an amazing time to be there. It was one of the worst times but one of the best times because there was so much going on in terms of awareness, consciousness, movement and the regeneration of youth.”
And everything being experienced was being experienced together. Conzo said that in the midst of a whole lot of destruction, “The community aspect was really tight. You didn’t go a day without food because if you didn’t have food, Doña Flora next door was cooking enough to feed you and your brothers and sisters and Doña Carmen upstairs.”
He shows the tightness of the community in his 1978 photo, “Lot Cleanup at United Bronx Parents,” in which everyone worked together to clean up an area of rubble. A strong sense of community in the Bronx meant that people looked out for each other, not just for themselves. And when one member of the community was hurting, everyone would rally around that person, seeking change when necessary.
Pagán’s photo, “Anthony Baez” depicts two women
marching in a late December 1994 rally against police brutality, holding a sign with the name of its most recent victim. Twenty-nine year-old Anthony R. Baez was home for the holidays spending time with his family. While tossing a football with his brothers outside Cameron Place, they accidentally hit the side of a police car. This provoked Officer Francis Lavoti, and in the altercation that followed, Báez (who had asthma) died as the result of an illegal choke hold. The photo highlights how the community came together to protest in the spirit of each person being responsible for their neighbor.
The historias exhibit shows us that the best stories never end with the individual or pretend that the struggle is where the story ends. Instead, the best stories bring into focus the community and serve as a reminder that there is always hope in difficult times, mostly in the act
of being together.
The photographs of los seis visually preserve the authentic history of communities. They personalize the physical spaces that many people would overlook by highlighting what they mean to the communities they serve. They debunk the stories told by people who are far away from the communities themselves and tell new ones instead from up close. Other people don’t get to decide what kind of place the Bronx is or what kind of people Bronxites are. These historias are for members of the Bronx community like los seis to tell and for the rest of us to listen to.
If you want to experience las historias, it’s definitely worth it to go see them for yourself. Jan. 26 was origi-
showing, but due to popular demand, it has been extended until April. More information about los seis and their photos can be found on the Seis del Sur website.
The New Generation of Mumford & Sons
By CATE DALTON CONTRIBUTING WRITER
“Come get lost in a fairground crowd” and listen to the new single by the long time folk rock band Mumford & Sons. On Jan. 17, the group released their first single in seven years, “Rushmere,” followed by an announcement of their upcoming album being released on March 28, 2025. With the resurgence of mid 2010s and Tumblr culture, there is no better time for a band like Mumford & Sons to have their comeback. The English band, a mix of folk, rock and pub-style music, dominated stomp-and-holler playlists across the first half of the 2010s. Their country feel (fueled by a consistent use of the banjo), paired with poetic lyricism and emotional melodies, made the band an instant classic for coffee hipsters.
If you’re unsure if you would recognize their songs, I recommend visiting their first two albums, “Sigh No More” or “Babel” and perusing hits
like “I Will Wait” and “Little Lion Man,” some of their biggest hits, putting them on the map early in their career. As the band navigated their success, their music evolved with them. Over the course of their four studio albums, they experimentvibes until their most recent album, “Delta,” released in 2018. This album represented a divergence of their usual sound; less banjos and mandolins, and more electronica and synth pop. While the album contained some highlights, it was safe to say it altogether felt like a different sound and there-
Fast-forward to today, as they release their newest work entitled “Rushmere,” the single and the upcoming album. Upon my first listen to the new single, I was pleasantly surprised. Right off the bat, the song starts up again with their nostalgic pub-rock feel, with a quick recognition of the banjo and mandolin that the group has
made themselves known for.
The song is emotionally driven, much like some of their older stuff. Towards the end, it builds up to a key change and the string instruments rise in passion. There is even a hint of trumpet, a classic Mumford & Sons feature, to wrap up the tune with a sense of finality. The steady beat of the snare drum emulates their perfect pub-stomping feel, as it be-
comes hard to not tap a toe along to the rhythm. It wouldn’t be a true Mumford & Sons song without an isolated vocal from Marcus Mumford, which in this song can be found right before the last chorus. The lyrics he performs are poetic in nature, painting images and reintroducing quintessential Mumford themes such as the personification of light (“light me up”) and
the human heart (“restless hearts”).
To me, the song is a perfect representation of what’s to come from the band — something that sounds like their staple sound. Strung together with strong lyrics and a fervent melody, Mumford & Sons is showing their audiences they have not forgotten their roots, and after seven years, they are ready to prove it.
CRISTINA STEFANIZZI/THE FORDHAM RAM
ERYNN SWEENEY/THE FORDHAM RAM
By ABIGAIL PRICE CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Winter in New York City is not for the faint of heart. As the weather dips to nearly below freezing, nothing is more appealing than cozying up indoors for a unique winter activity. Here are 10 winter activities to do without leaving your house:
1. Have a movie you’ve always wanted to watch? Try a movie night complete with classic movie theater snacks. The experience of the theater can be brought right to the living room with the large variety of streaming services available to watch on-demand movies. A wintertime picture is an excellent way to experience the diversity of cinema while never having to leave the comfort of your home. Feeling a warm, heartfelt Christmas classic? Watch “White Christmas” (1954), a family-friendly musical extravaganza. Interested in horror? Watch “Black Christmas”(1974), a slasherrority sisters on a cold winter night.
2. Never have enough time to read? This winter is your chance! Spend your downtime with that novel you’ve had on your reading list. Or, if reading
By SOPHIA YOERKS CONTRIBUTING WRITER
David Lynch’s life was built on incredible vulnerability — not the emotional kind, but the vulnerability to have an open mind. You may know him from the clip he posted on social media saying, “Today I was thinking about the song ‘Fade Into You’ by Mazzy Star from the year 1994,” his plethora of music projects, or by his revolutionary artistic endeavors such as “Eraserhead,” “Twin Peaks” and “Blue Velvet.”
Lynch had a clear vision of everything he did, and ambition that could not be morphed or quelled. One of my favorite moments of his was his reaction after a bad take. In the director’s cut he said, “Okay, let’s try that again, but this time good.” In a serious yet humorous way, he managed combining it with the art of mindfulness and meditation. Something that intrigued me about Lynch was his devotion to transcendentalist meditation: a meditation technique where you mentally repeat a word, phrase or action until you reach a state of inner peace. On the David Lynch Foundation website, he says that he has “not missed a single meditation ever since.
CULTURE
10 Cozy Ways to Beat the Cold in NYC
print isn’t your style, try an audiobook and be transported to another world far away from the snowy landscape of the city. Need a recommendation? “The Shadow of the Wind” by Carlos Ruiz Zafón, a harrowing novel following the life of a young boy in 20th century Barcelona, is the perfect book to cozy up with on a wintery afternoon.
3. Feeling crafty? Nothing says wintertime fun like diving into an arts and crafts night to unlock your inner artist. Craftties for creativity at very inexpensive prices. Even something as simple as learning how to
to brighten up a snowy day. Want something a little more? Plan a paint-and-sip night with a follow-along painting tutorial. Bob Ross has incredible winter paintings, and paired with his melodic voice, he is sure to lift your spirits.
4. Looking to expand your musical horizons? Create the perfect winter playlist for future frosty evenings. Apps like Spotify or Apple Music make it easy to curate playlists with your winter music with friends to create a blend. In addition, many artists such as Noah Kahan, Gregory Alan
Isakov and The Head and The Heart embody the winter spirit. They can turn any cold day into a vibrant musical escape.
5. Nothing says a cozy night in like breaking out your favorite board game and gathering with friends for an epic showdown. Board games are a fantastic way to spend an evening, and they provide a variety of entertainment. Want to battle your friends for world domination? Play Risk! Or is building a business empire more your style? Try Monopoly for an assured night of competitive fun.
6. Winter is also the perfect time to learn how to cook your favorite meals or appetizers. The cold weather makes learning how to cook even more delicious. My personal favorite? A good Italian wedding soup never fails to perfect a dark evening. Cooking is also a fantastic way to bring together friends and family. Try hosting a dinner party to reconnect with those closest to you.
7. No dinner party would be complete without a festive dessert to end the night, whether the night calls for a warm plate of chocolate chip cookies or cake. Whatever the case may be, baking is a great way to push your creative and artistic boundaries. Plus, at the end
of the process, you have created a delicious treat for all to enjoy.
8. Having a lazy afternoon, why not take up the British tradition of afternoon tea? Crafting a simple tea is a great way to warm up after a long day in the frigid weather, awvailable, you’ll be sure to fancy. Additionally, pairing an afternoon cuppa with your new-found baking skills can elevate a simple cup of tea to a magical pre-dinner snack.
9. Need an activity to pass an afternoon? Why not break out a deck of cards? Card games provide endless opportunities for entertainment. Poker, rummy or a high-intensity game of spoons are sure to
bring a competitive spirit to any wintertime gathering. Cards are not only a good way to pass the time with friends, but can also provide solitary entertainment. A game of solitaire or building a card tower is a fantastic way to spend downtime away from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
10. Finally, if none of these activities have sounded appealing thus far, why not try
Knitting, crocheting or embroidering are fun ways to express your creative side while also staying cozy indoors. These unique skills are easy to learn through online tutorials, and making your own winter hat or scarf is a great way to embrace the cold artistically.
Commemorating David Lynch
Twice a day, every day,” and further elaborates on how it has impacted him in his artistic practice: “It has given me reserves of energy, creativity and happiness deep within. This level of life is sometimes called ‘pure consciousness’ — it is a treasury. And this level of life is deep within us all.”
After looking more into this, I began to see a recurring theme in his work, an almost dream-like sporadicness and awkwardness in many of his characters’ dialogues. During an interview with Patti Smith with BBC newslight in 2014, Lynch said that he thinks in fragments. That when he gets an idea, or a piece, he keeps it and writes it down awaiting for it to amount to something more. “Having a fragment is more bait on the hook, and it pulls in more and the more faster the rest come in,” he said. By allowing himself toing quietly, eventually his ideas came to him, or he would bite the bait. This relates to a piece of advice he gave to aspiring artists, “Stay alert, do your work. Don’t worry about the world going by.”
By applying his meditative philosophy to his career, he allowed audiences to indulge in seemingly mundane con-
versations and scenes that actually hold deeper meaning and stories unbeknownst to halfwatching viewers. Lynch was unapologetic in his willingness to share openly the struggles of being human. Some of his writing and scenes presented can seem confusing, awkward and bizarre, but in reality, they are irrevocably entrancing and inspiring.
For example, the simple words in “Blue Velvet,” “Now it’s dark,” represent something much deeper for Frank (the protagonist, or antagonist) in a painfully uncomfortable karaoke scene. The quote is all about how he has so much emotion buried inside him, but he can’t deal
with it. Lynch, who is usually aloof about what he means in any given scene, in being so direct, digs into the soul.
“You’ll never have me,” is a line from “Lost Highway,” when Alice rejects Pete, so he then ‘transforms’ into Fred. It’s just about the most succinct summary there is of the themes Lynch deals with in his work, in this case, the uneasy intersection between fear and desire and what takes control before acceptance. Another line from “Lost Highway” replays in my head constantly: “I like to remember things my own way. How I remembered them, not necessarily the way they happened.”
conventional logic, instead inviting viewers to confront the surreal, the uncanny and the sublime. His work serves as a meditation on the fragility of identity, the search for meaning and the dark undercurrents of human existence. Lynch’s genius lies in his ability to take us to the edges of understanding, forcing us to confront the mysteries of life and the subconscious. be solved but experiences to be felt, leaving us haunted by their beauty, terror and profound ambiguity.
Although he may be in another universe, his creative legacy still lingers in ours.
David Lynch is the celebrated director of the short film “Rabbits” and more than 40 other short films.
CRISTINA STEFANIZZI/THE FORDHAM RAM
Winter is the perfect time to reclaim old hobbies or try new ones.
CRISTINA STEFANIZZI/THE FORDHAM RAM
CULTURE
Fordham Junior Engages With Community Near and Far
By ADITHI VIMALANATHAN MANAGING EDITOR
Global Outreach! (GO!) is-is none other than Fordham
Global Outreach since her-and a member of the Future
In Reese’s third year at the other Rose Hill co-chair
and leader handbooks to ensure that all of the leaders are
tions her freshman year, Dains
— another community en-
Only a year later, Dains became a leader on her second
Asociación de Comunidades Unidas Tomando Acción-
extracurriculars in an under-
ed that last year marked a
and the kids sell it and raise
Live Forever or Die Trying: The Bryan Johnson Philosophy
By MEGAN MCCANN
His multi-million dollar home home lab to collect data on
As of the release of his docu-
documentary, he constantly re-
titled, “Don’t Die: The Man
cal clock and his commitment
ment of illnesses such as candeath date much sooner than enhanced human,” as Johnson
tra years at the end of your life
quality of life than Johnson’s
that a calculated life of such
His daily schedule is incredibly
Swimming Triumphs Over La Salle at Senior Day
The highlight of the week for the Fordham Swim and Dive team was their Senior Day celebration and meets vs. the La Salle University Explorers on Saturday, Jan. 25. The Rams made
of the 2024-25 season, sweeping La Salle in both men’s and women’s meets. Across 32 events, the women scored 181-119, while the men scored 195-99. The team celebrated their seniors competing in their last meet at Rose Hill in a ceremony before the meet commenced.
Some bright points on Saturday included the 200 medley relay for both the Fordham men and women. The all-senior women’s squad of Leire Martin, Emma Shaughnessy, Jessica Zebrowski and Ainhoa Martin took home the men’s side, senior Christian Tay-mores Daniel Ribeiro and David Topi
Alongside their 200 medley relay wins, L. Martin and A. Martin took home multiple individual event wins, with L. Martin winning the 100 and 200 backstroke and A. Martin taking the 200 breaststroke and 200 individual medley.
These are just a few of the important performances from the Rams visits to Piscataway to face Rutgers
University on Friday, Jan. 24. The women’s 200 medley relay squad
of the new semester to the Scarlet Knights, 187-108.
So far, the men are 3-1 this season, while the women stand at 3-2. Looking forward, the Rams will
Athletes of the Week
Senior guard Taylor Donaldson has had two excellent performances backto-back for the Rams as they continue conference play. On Jan. 18 against the Dayton Flyers, Donaldson scored 19 points in 37 minutes played — a team high — in a close 58-55 Rams win. Donaldson played 35 minutes in Saturday’s 51-49 win over the St. Bonaventure University Bonnies at the Rose Hill Gymnasium, once again recording a team-high of 19 points. Donaldson has been a crucial piece of a Fordham women’s basketball team with a 12-7 record overall.
Junior forward Josh Rivera was the basketball conference win of the season against Duquesne University on points on the day and hit the gamewinning three for the Rams to make Rivera’s heroics with seconds to spare capped a thrilling win for the Rams during White Out at the Rose Hill Gymnasium. Rivera also put up 12 points, good for second-most on the team, in a loss to Loyola University Chicago Wednesday. Rivera and his Rams hope to make it a streak when they head to Philadelphia to face La Salle University this Wednesday night.
HOME
AWAY
Men’s Basketball
Women’s Basketball
Men’s Track
Women’s Track
Men’s Tennis
Women’s Tennis Squash
Men’s Swim and Dive
and Dive
head to Amherst to face the University of Massachusetts Minutemen this Saturday, Feb. 1. The A10 Championship is on the horizon, taking place Feb. 19-22 at the Hampton Virginia Aquaplex. Both the men’s and take place in March, which will
be at the Weyerhaeuser King County Aquatics Center located in Federal Way, Wa. The women’s competition will take place Mar. 19-22, and the men’ competition will take place Mar. COURTESY OF
Taylor Donaldson Senior Basketball
Josh Rivera Junior Basketball
Senior Daniel Langlois competes for Fordham University Men’s Swimming and Diving.
Women’s Swim
Met Championship
Champio-
Senior Kevin Zahariev swims breaststroke for Fordham University Swim and Dive.
FORDHAM ATHLETICS
Fordham Swim and Dive celebrates their seniors on Saturday.
New York Sports In Focus: Rangers Midseason Check-in
New York Rangers fans deserve a pat on the back for what the team put us through
when the Rangers went on a 10game winning streak sparked
saved the season” — and did not countless memorable moments: the Stadium Series comeback, the victory of the President’s the Washington Capitals in the and the thrilling Game 3 overtime victory that put the Despite nearly blowing that lead, the team pulled through with such as the Chris Kreider game, the Barclay Goodrow overtime winner and the Alex Wennberg magic, surely they won the
As Rangers fans, we often
started the new season strong, was a mixed bag, with the team to be forgettable for some and downright frustrating for dismal 3-10 record, delivering a stretch of hockey that was the team appeared lifeless, with
questioning leadership in the
game stood out more than year, they faced the Florida was another defeat, the game down 2-0 early but showed they couldn’t secure the win, of belief — something that had hopeless “we lose every game” to “you win some, you lose
So what changed coming into early December, the Rangers elected to trade their captain, Ducks for defenseman Urho
former second overall pick the Seattle Kraken in exchange for Will Borgen, a defenseman who General Manager Chris Drury pursued for some time (and this past weekend signed time, but those two additions have done wonders for a team that was near the bottom of the
Recently, I had a conversation with former Rangers goaltender Mike Richter, an important member of the 1994 Stanley Cup champion team, about what it takes to start winning
highlighting the long seasons and inevitable struggles of star true for the Rangers athletes, as key players like Mika Zibanejad, Chris Kreider, Adam Fox and
the only way to overcome such challenges is to learn from them
Since the calendar turned to 2025, those core players have been performing at a much higher level — none more so netminder had a shutout streak of 165:28 before conceding a facing the Avalanche, Shesterkin boasted a 6-0-1 record with an
Despite their recent success, the Rangers still have areas collecting points and winning games, they continue to give their opponents valuable points
overtime losses, they held leads in the third period but failed to
Additionally, in a consequential matchup against the Columbus Blue Jackets, a competitor in the Wild Card race, the Rangers needed a shootout to secure the win, allowing Columbus to earn a point and most recently, the seconds of regulation, failing to late-game lapses are not a recipe for success, and the team must
easy, but the recent turnaround has reignited hope among the can build on their current momentum, address their lategame struggles and continue to get elite goaltending from Shesterkin, they could very well So buckle up, Rangers fans — we
By AARYAN SAMA
clash against Brentford at the many had already written rejecting a bid from Saudi
to be over, not living up to his with Dutch manager Arne Slot preferring the likes of cameo in the 2-0 win against Brentford reminds the Kop of why he may be an essential Dionysian — presence on constantly evolving sport such as football, goals and
assists cannot be the sole metric for determining the
— his statistics constantly misrepresent him, yet he is indubitably one of the greatest players to grace a Premier
and defensively, as he often regains possession from the opposition and helps build
he could also try moving him Joelinton’s conversion to
for the most away injurytime winners in the history of against Newcastle United, Nottingham Forest including Jota barely able to maintain nine experiment proving to be
a striker for a title-contending team has been questioned,
be phenomenally sub-par at times, and he cannot convert tap-ins or chances with high expected goals at crucial
to stay onside, having been in his limited game time departure circulated the summer before this season,
his social media and receiving criticism for his lackluster performances in the prior
the Fenway Sports Group sports holding conglomerate, should recoup the majority of his transfer fee by selling him to the wealthy Saudi
forwards Alexander Isak and
the funds they will obtain from his sale could become a massive contribution to contract renewals, with star players like Mohamed Salah, Alexander-Arnold’s contracts which are set to expire this summer, while deals with players such as Ibrahima Konaté also needing to be
without a doubt one of the most perplexing signings
the answer would probably
Merseyside club, and it is just losses on the Uruguayan attacker or keep him at the club, with both decisions certainly having a high level
every single match, and he must be backed by the fans and the club until the end of
By IAN NELSON ASST. SPORTS EDITOR
The world said farewell to legendary baseball announcer and player Bob Uecker on Jan. 17. His cause of death was listed as small-cell lung cancer, a disease he had battled for almost two years. He died just 10 days shy of his 91st birthday. Uecker’s life was full of memorable moments including a successful baseball career, a moderate role in Hollywood and a commitment to charitable causes. In a statement released after his death, Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said, “While this onetime backup catcher was known for his self-deprecating style, Bob Uecker was one of the game’s most beloved figures throughout his 70-year career in baseball.”
Uecker loved the game of baseball, but he was a family man before anything. He once said, “The biggest thrill a ballplayer can have is when your son takes after you. That happened when my Bobby was in his championship Little League game. He really showed me something. Struck out three times. Made an error that lost the game. Parents were throwing things at our car and swearing at us as we drove off. Gosh, I was proud.”
Uecker spent time in the Major Leagues as a catcher for six years. As a backup catcher, he played for
Goodbye, Mr. Baseball
four teams: the Milwaukee Braves, St. Louis Cardinals, Philadelphia Phillies as well as the Atlanta Braves from 1962-1967. He won a World Series with the Cardinals in 1964. While his playing career did not stand out com
pared to the one he had announcing, he still belonged to an exclusive club of players to hit a homerun off of one of the all-time great pitchers and Hall of Famer Sandy Koufax. In 1971, four years after his retirement as a player, Uecker began calling games for the Brewers, where he would spend the next 54 years as their play-by-play announcer. He was loved by fans for his good humor and sharp wit. That same wittiness led to him being a frequent guest on “The Tonight
Show” with Johnny Carson. In his first appearance on the show, Carson would dub him “Mr. Baseball,” a nickname that would stick with him for the rest of his life. Uecker would appear on the show roughly 100 times throughout his career. In 2001, he was inducted into the Radio Announcer Hall of Fame. Then in 2003, he was also inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame as the recipient of the Ford C. Frick Award — the highest broadcast honor in baseball. Outside of his baseball career, Uecker also had an established acting career. In the 1980s, he appeared in a series of Miller Lite commercials. In one, he impersonated pitcher Whitey Ford for free drinks, and in another, he played an obnox -
ious fan who “must be in the front row.” Also, he starred in the hit ABC sitcom “Mr. Belvedere” from 1985-90. In the show, Uecker portrayed sportswriter George Owens. While the show was a success, Uecker’s most meaningful contribution to pop culture may be as announcer Harry Doyle in the film series “Major League.” Uecker’s role in the film is the height of comedy, and his character Harry Doyle’s witty and often sarcastic commentary is a caricature of Uecker himself. With lines like “juuuust a bit outside,” his performance is one of the highlights of the films. In addition to his broadcasting duties and acting career, Uecker also wrote two books as well as hosting
“Saturday Night Live” and WrestleMania. He famously graced the pages of “Sports Illustrated” while in his 70s, donning a speedo.
Uecker was a philanthropist who supported many local and national charities. He was known for his quiet generosity and ability to connect with people. For those that interested in celebrating Uecker’s memory, his famthat were important to him for you to support. If you are interested, all donations should be made to the websites of the Froedtert Hospital and the Medical College of Wisconsin for cancer research and clinical care, the Wounded Warrior Project and the ALS Association. He will be deeply missed by all who remember him.
In MetLife Stadium, Misery Loves Company
By KURT SIPPEL CONTRIBUTING WRITER
A dysfunctional season of football is nothing new to the East Rutherford, New Jersey. But what the New York Giants this year will stick in the minds of fans for generations.
The Giants hoped to startebrating the 100th year of their historic franchise, but things could not have gone worse for Big Blue. The team would go 3-14 and winless at home until week 16 of the regular season.
Recently, there has been speculation about Head Coach Brian Daboll and General Manager Joe Schoen since the beginning of the season. This was felt most strongly when the Giants made the decision to let their franchise cornerstone and fan favorite running back Saquon Barkley walk to their division rival, the Philadelphia Eagles.
Particularly notable was how quarterback Daniel Jones handled a dysfunctional team. Instead of the Giants letting him benched him. The issue wasn’t that Jones got benched, but how the organization decided to do it. They stripped him of any meaningful practice reps. He was being used as a practice safety and his coveted starting position went to Tommy DeVito.
The decision Schoen and Daboll made to keep Jones and
let Barkley walk at the end of the season left the team with no franchise quarterback and their former franchise icon breaking records for their biggest rival. Don’t worry though, the Giants did break a record of their own this season: the most losses in franchise history with 14.
Team president and owner John Mara attempted to quell the fan voices. Mara said he would be keeping the pair together and aiming for stability throughout the franchise.
Stability has not been a theme for the Giants in recent memory with the team having gone two general managers in the last 10 years.
The decision to keep Daboll as head coach was the right choice. He won Coach of the Year in 2022 after the Giants year in charge. While serving as
from 2018-2021, he helped de-len that led to multiple successful seasons. Allowing Daboll to get a quarterback he could coach up for the Giants and highlight his coaching ability that we saw in -
son to prove he can keep his job. After that, it will be time for the Giants organization to move on. There is only so much time you can give your general manager to assemble a complete roster, and Schoen has yet to do so.
Now onto the other team in East Rutherford, the New York Jets. This is a team that is the butt of almost every joke when discussing a dysfunctional team in the NFL. They have missed thetive years — tied for the longest -
ance in North American sports.
There are a lot of issues that explain the Jets’ recent struggles. But before that, we should go back to 2023 when the Jets decided to trade for former MVP and future hall of famer Aaron Rodgers. Upon arriving at the Jets, Rodgers brought with him a lot of talent, as well as a lot of 2023 season rolled around with a lot of optimism, and Rodgers ruptured his Achilles on the fourth snap. That season was scrapped before it ever got to fourth down. In 2024, Rodgers was back, line to protect him. The Jets
was never explosive enough, and the defense went from exceptional to barely mediocre. Many defensive players
regressed during their 2024 campaign and defenses win championships
Head Coach Robert Saleh in the middle of the season. It was one of the most disappointing seasons in recent memory, considering preseason expectations with Rodgers at full strength.
The Jets’ defense has always been pretty good, but the offense has never been good enough, and Saleh could not give the team what they needed. With Saleh out as head coach, the Jets have hired a new head coach, former Lions Defensive Coordinator Aaron Glenn, last week — a strong move for the organization. Glenn knows what it means to be a Jet, having played eight seasons with them. He’s had a good coaching career as a coordinator with the Lions. Glenn also has some scouting experience and can help voice his ideas more effectively to the general manager.
The new general manager hire for the Jets is Darren Mougey, former assistant general manager of the Denver Broncos. He drafted well for the Broncos — something the Jets have lacked for a long time.
It’s hard for many fans to believe that both the Jets and Giants have bright futures ahead after these seasons of football fans endured. I do feel the new hires by the Jets are going to help them, but on the Giants side of the ball, if they don’t get the right quarterback, fans are in for another long season.
CRISTINA STEFANIZZI/THE FORDHAM RAM
Bob Uecker died this past week. He was beloved by the entire baseball community for his humor and wit. Baseball will not be the same without him.
CRISTINA STEFANIZZI/FORDHAM RAM
It has been a long time since the fans at MetLife stadium enjoyed the taste of victory on a regular basis.
By IAN NELSON ASST. SPORTS EDITOR
On Saturday afternoon, the Fordham University Rams won a back-and-forth battle against the St. Bonaventure University Bonnies at home. After pulling ahead with a minute to go, the Rams refused to give up the lead and secured a close victory by a score of 51-49 over the visiting Bonnies. With this win, the Rams improve to 6-2 in Atlantic-10 play and 12-7 overall. Their triumph means that they have now won six out of their last seven games, in addition to increasing their home winning streak to eight.
The Rams were led by senior
guard Taylor Donaldson and graduate student forward Irene Murua, as the duo combined for 37 of the Rams’ 51 points, with 19 and 18 points, respectively. The Rams pounded the boards as they out-rebounded the Bonnies 41 to 31. Murua also led the way on the glass alongside teammate Karissa Antoine; combined, they gained 16 rebounds with eight rebounds apiece. Murua and Donaldson controlled the scoring, recording 21 of the Rams’ 23 first-half points.
St. Bonaventure held the lead for the majority of the first quarter. They led by four at the media break and by six at the end of the quarter.
Both sides started slow in the
second quarter, with only two baskets made by the halfway point. The Rams tied the game at 19 at the 2:29 mark; the Bonnies then pulled back ahead just before the half-time buzzer to take a 24-23 lead into the locker room.
The close play of the first half continued into the second, with the teams tied at 32 with 5:19 left in the third quarter. The scoring picked up as the quarter ended, but neither side would be put away. With the game in a deadlock, the Bonnies took a 41-40 lead heading into the fourth quarter.
With the Rams down by two and in dire need of points, they turned to Donaldson as she connected on back-to-back jumpers
with two minutes to play. Her second make gave the Rams a 49-47 lead that was extended to a three-point advantage on a free throw made by Murua a short while later. Donaldson sank one final free throw with 27.4 seconds
remaining to secure the win for the home team.
On Wednesday., the Rams will wrap up a three-game homestand with the Battle of the Rams against the University of Rhode Island in the Bronx.
Fordham Falls to Loyola Chicago on the Road
By ELIZABETH COLLINS ASST. SPORTS EDITOR
Fordham men’s basketball extends their loss streak to six after a neck-and-neck battle against the Loyola University Chicago Ramblers on Wednesday, Jan. 22. The matchup followed last week’s disappointing loss in triple overtime against the University of Massachusetts Amherst, and while Fordham brought all the momentum they had for the needed win in Chicago, they ultimately fell short to the Ramblers 66-70.
Marking the first matchup without Rams Head Coach Keith Urgo amid his four-game suspension, Associate Head Coach
Tray Woodall took control of the team. To begin, Loyola came out aggressively with a physical defense, pressuring the Rams into giving a disorderly offensive performance, but they quickly adjusted their game. While remaining a tight matchup, Fordham was in the lead for most of the first half as they persistently succeeded in recovering rebounds (a significant improvement shown to be made during their bye week) and getting the ball up the court. Defensively, the Rams played an impressive game, most notably when they switched to zone a little more than halfway through the first, effectuating a four-minute scoring drought for the Ramblers. However, as the Rams continued
displaying drive, the Ramblers most often had a response. In addition to the team forcing multiple turnovers and displaying vigorous defense from the first few minutes on, Loyola’s star fifth-year guard Sheldon Edwards Jr. led his team into breaking down the notable zone, tying the game towards the end of the first half and scoring from behind the arc in a crucial moment. The first half concluded with the Ramblers up 34-31. Starting the second half, the Rams came out strong, forcing four turnovers and scoring the first eight points (four of which were earned by senior guard Jackie Johnson III) in the first two and a half minutes, making the lead 39-34. The Rams stayed
ahead for a large majority of the half, with Johnson, senior guard Japhet Medor and junior forward Josh Rivera leading in points. However, around the 8:30 mark, after Rivera scored a layup to bring the Rams back up by four, Loyola had a ten-point scoring run led by senior forward Jalen DeLoach and junior guard Jalen Dawson. With around 4:00 remaining on the clock, Fordham’s Johnson and Medor got the game back to a one-possession game for a final time with free-throw shots and a bucket, but Loyola held onto the lead. The closest the score got again was with a three earned by Rivera at the buzzer. The game ended 70-66, improving Loyola’s record to 12-7 overall, 3-3 in the
Atlantic 10 and compounding Fordham’s to 8-11, 0-6 in the conference.
Johnson and Medor both ended with 22 points and Rivera with 12. Forwards Romad Dean and Matt Zona and guard-forward Jahmere Tripp lead in rebounds, with 13 all together. In a remarkably close and consistently even game, with the largest lead for either team being only seven, Fordham displayed improvements from their last game but just fell short of the win. The Rams add two games to their record this week and look to bounce back with a home and away matchup against the Duquesne University Dukes and the La Salle University Explorers.
Overtime: Notre Dame Football is Back
By ELIZABETH COLLINS ASST. SPORTS EDITOR
The University of Notre Dame Fighting Irish had an incredible regular season, going 11-1, with quarterback Riley Leonard and star running back Jeremiyah Love leading the offense with their chemistry. Defensively, linebacker Jack Kiser, defensive lineman Rylie Mills and safety Xavier Watts often stood out as central players in a game. But these are only a few of the great. Each teammate had a moment to shine throughout the season.
But the Irish’s glaring shortcoming must also be noted. After an exciting home win against Texas A&M University to begin their year, the Irish fell short to Northern Illinois University (NIU) the following week, losing
14-16. The game blurred their road to the championship only two weeks into the season; however, while crushing, the loss held value. Notre Dame familiarized themselves with utter defeat so early on that subsequent battles were arguably fought for with more fervor. One of the most significant signs of this was seen in the Irish’s defining final regular season matchup against the University of Southern California (USC), when the score was tensely tied at the half. Notre Dame’s shot at the championship, which had been discussed as something so distant from them after the NIU loss, was right at their fingertips. They came out in the second half, ready to finish, and they did. This level of momentum in these kinds of moments landed them in Atlanta last Monday.
On what is arguably the biggest stage in college sports, Notre Dame and the Ohio State University Buckeyes fought for what they have been inching towards all year and then some. Ohio State was heavily favored (especially amid Notre Dame’s many injuries) and continually outshined the Irish on the field. However, Notre Dame played a full and strident game. As Irish defensive lineman Howard Cross III described, “We didn’t give up. We didn’t stop…We still kept fighting until the very end.” But however strong the fight was, it was not enough to defeat one of the toughest opponents in college football. The game ended favoring the Buckeyes 34-23.
The outcome can obviously be viewed as a disappointment to Irish fans. But the very fact that they had the chance to lose contrasts with recent decades of Notre Dame’s program. The Irish haven’t won a national title since 1988, and the truth is, since the early 1990s, they have not been able to win a “big” game. This year, they ran through them. “We’ve been on a three-game playoff streak,” Cross III added, “and before this year, it was unfathomable for us to even win a playoff game… We couldn’t finish, but we’ve changed the narrative of who we are as a program.”
While the Irish didn’t bring home the title, their positioning
in the championship reflected the resilience they had chased for years before. Notre Dame, for the first time in 30 years, are playing like champions when it matters most.
But why is this the team bringing back “Notre Dame football” — the program built on iconic culture, strength and victory? Why not previous ones, the ones with legendary players such as Kyle Hamilton, Quenton Nelson or Brady Quinn? The clearest answer would be Head Coach Marcus Freeman. Freeman took control of the Irish in 2021 and made adjustments in many areas — but the most notable would be recruitment and confidence.
The depth of the team has clearly deepened. Looking back at recent seasons, matchups like their 2018 game against the Clemson University Tigers proved backups were unreliable when star defensive back Julian Love was injured, and the Tigers immediately took grasp of the win. But now, under Freeman (in addition to key players such as Rylie Mills and Anthonie Knapp getting injured during the playoffs and allowing backups to prove their abilities), when the Irish lost their quarterback in key moments of the semifinal game against the Penn State University Nittany Lions, backup quarterback Steve Angeli was able to hold down the fort and lead the team to an essential field goal.
This depth of talent, something once foreign to the Irish, is now a factor in what kept them running. In addition to the physical changes of the game, Freeman has made an equally immense mental impact on players.
“The culture’s changed,” Cross III continued in his interview following the championship game. “I don’t know how to describe it, but people are confident. With these games, prior to this year, it was like, ‘Whoa, I don’t know about that.’ Now, not a single person is thinking we’re going to lose.”
Despite Notre Dame falling short of the championship title, the team depicted what could lie ahead. Throughout the season, but especially once injuries befell, underclassmen displayed the shining talent of years to follow. The Irish will be losing several major performers next season, including Leonard, Kiser, Mills and Cross III, but they will continue to grow those like Love and standout wide receiver Jaden Greathouse.
Irish safety Adon Shuler may have best summed up the confidence and culture Notre Dame football has always been built upon and may have recently strayed away from until now; in a post-game interview, when asked why he believed Notre Dame could win it all, he answered: “Why not Notre Dame?”
CRISTINA STEFANIZZI/THE FORDHAM RAM
COURTESY OF FORDHAM ATHLETICS
The Fordham women’s basketball team huddle up before a home matchup.