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Upcoming BUSRC Election: A Look at the Candidates
By Abby Epstein - Arts & Culture Editor
Several students are contending for open positions in the upcoming fall BUSRC election, to be held this week. Voting will be held Tuesday morning and closes Wednesday at midnight (Sept. 17-18) at busrc.simplyvoting.com.
Running for first-year student representative, Britney Ellis Rahman, an education student, intends on addressing several of the issues that she has noticed around campus. In particular, she highlights how Menstrual Equity Project’s “baskets are always empty.” She also intends to rectify any barriers that LGBTQ+ students face when changing their deadnames on their student profile, describing “core issues of respect to large swathes of our student body.” To ease the process for first-years getting to know the area, she hopes to include off-campus tours to the standard onboarding procedure and work with various departments to create an interactive map of campus.
Josef Spence, the prospective on-campus representative, brings with him three
years of student government experience from a variety of roles. He hopes to carry that momentum forward: “I am in a particularly good position to put my energy towards whatever concerns students might have.” He also “hopes to explore ways in which Bishop’s students can communicate ideas and concerns with the SRC anonymously, so that they are able to share their opinions without the stress of meeting with someone faceto-face”.
Abass Zakari, a graduate student in the thesis-based computer science master’s program, makes his bid for graduate student senator. He served three consecutive terms as class representative as an undergraduate and attributes his success to the fact that “[he] was a credible mouthpiece for [his] constituents.” He hopes to continue to represent the graduate students at Bishop’s.
Chanelle Comeau-Eryou, a first-year student studying psychology, is running for the new position of sexual culture representative. During her time at Champlain College, Comeau-Eryou was a member of Sexed, a committee working towards
the goal of increasing student awareness of gender and sexual identity issues. “I want to use my experiences from Sexed to help my peers at Bishop’s,” she says. “Creating a safe and welcoming environment is crucial, as I want everyone to feel as safe and accepted as possible.”
This new position comes out of the Bishop’s Sexual Culture Committee, which has been running for the past 5 years.
“[The] committee carries out things like the take back the night, speaker events and other things around sexual health and inclusivity,” says Karen Dymond,
secretary general of the SRC. “The work is very very important, so having a representative on the board is something that’s also very important.”
The following students are also running for open positions: Émilie Beauchamp for general councillor, Antoine Blais for general councillor, and Alpha Diallo for graduate student senator. Students should check their bishop’s email during the voting period for access to the voting link. As always, spring elections will be held later this year for the SRC executive council and other positions on the board.
Diving into Death Valley: Bishop’s EAG students and faculty travel to Cerro Gordo to map abandoned silver mine
By Jillian French - News Editor
During the summer, four members of the Bishop’s community geared up for a trip to the historic Cerro Gordo Mines in California. The group was led by Professor Bruno Courtemanche and Dr. Elisabeth Levac from the department of environment, agriculture and geography (EAG). The professors, along with students Henry Mitchell and Rhodric Anselmo Mendoza Hayward, descended into the abandoned silver mines to map the 48 kilometers of underground tunnels. The team used advanced lidar technology to create a 3D map of the mines, preserving history by creating public digital access to the site. The Cerro Gordo area was given its name by Mexican prospectors, who discovered the silver in the ground. By the mid-1800s, the area was well-established in the Wild West, with over 48 kilometers of tunnels expanding from the 900-foot elevator shaft. Just as quickly as it sprang up, the mine was abandoned in 1877 when a fire wrecked much of the underground infrastructure. The area was mined briefly for zinc in the early 1900s but remained otherwise empty until its 2018 purchase by entrepreneur Brent Underwood. Underwood hosted the Bishop’s expedition, and their venture will feature on his YouTube channel Ghost Town Living.
Once in California, the group ventured each day 86400 feet down the elevator shaft to begin their daily work. Using lidar technology, 3D laser scanning, the group methodically marked and scanned areas to stitch the scans together, ultimately creating a comprehensive 3D map of the underground tunnels. Dr. Levac stated that “there have been maps done in the past, but people didn’t have the tools we have today”, adding that the group was able to add unmapped tunnels, fix directional inaccuracies and create a complete scan of the area. Their daily work includ-
ed moving the scanner along the galleries, working the computer and running the tech back and forth. They also used drone photogrammetry to map the surrounding landscape above ground. Henry Micthell and Dr. Levac described the physical challenges of working in a remote environment, from lower oxygen levels to unexploded dynamite.
For the students, preparation for the trip included taking the geographic information system and remote sensing course during their studies at Bishop’s, which introduced them to the technology. Mitchell also said that the group “traveled to an abandoned copper mine to get a sense of what the equipment looked like” in preparation. However, he added, “Most of the learning was on the spot… the first few days were overwhelming, but by the end we had found a really good rhythm”. For Dr. Levac, preparation included planning and packing equipment, as well as preparing herself for physical challenges: “I tried to walk a lot
to prepare before going. The high altitude makes youshort of breath, and you wake up all the time at night because your brain thinks you’re short on oxygen”. Like Mitchell, she found that “you plan as much as you can, but then you have to adjust, just like any mission”. Once completed, the maps will be publicly accessible. Mitchell stated that it was “important to create something that visitors can see”. The trip allowed both him and Dr. Levac to visualize how the miners would have lived and worked on the site over a century ago. As a venture into experiential learning, Mitchell also enjoyed the chance to “experience what fieldwork is”. The group returned from the trip on Jul. 29, having successfully scanned and mapped the abandoned silver mines. The trip highlights the rich experiential learning opportunities in the EAG department at Bishop’s. Additionally, it underscores the possibility of using advanced technology to preserve historical sites.
Photo courtesy of Emily Crunican
Photo courtesy of Henry Mitchell
O-Week 2024: Gaiters of the round table prepare to conquer academics
By Jeryka Howard - Contributor
As per Lennoxville tradition, some 650 first-years stepped foot on Bishop’s University campus for the first time to experience Orientation Week 2024. Bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, these students embarked upon the quest of a lifetime, becoming gaiters of the round table from Sept. 1 through 7. Among the traditional parties and activities, new events focused on providing students with information that will guide them through their time at Bishop’s. In addition to the campus tours and quad nights, academic events such as ‘Academic Hot Tips’ and the Student Success Fair drew attention and engagement. Gaiters of the round table effectively proves that students benefit from an introduction to Bishop’s that displays our culture and gives academics time to shine.
Organized by SRC academic VP
Roser Rise, several new events provided students with information they may not have had easy access to elsewhere, including words of encouragement from several Deans across the disciplines. A presentation from the Student Success Center and an open question period left students feeling prepared for the beginning of the semester. Rise mentioned that these sessions were well attended: “Cleghorn was filled with
students eager to start their university studies. We realized returning students also benefited[...] so we are looking into organizing further events of [this] kind throughout the semester,” she said.
On Tuesday, the Student Success fair was set up in the Gait to allow firstyears and returning students alike to walk around and meet the people responsible for helping them through their time at Bishop’s. Notably, the Student Success
Center (SSC) was present with their Peer Academic Mentors (PAMs), where they introduced their plans for the year. O-Week has often focused on introducing students to extracurriculars outside of their classes. While these activities are essential to Bishop’s culture, it does run the risk of excluding those who are less interested in the social aspect of Bishop’s. This year, SRC executives created opportunities to not only party and socialize, but also to prepare themselves for academic life. According to O-Week organizer and SRC director of events Reagan Russell, “We implemented Academic Hot Tips, Narcan Training and SRC Elections Info Session [...] as a way to encourage more learning opportunities for our incoming class during such a pivotal week for them.” The result? Students who are “support[ed] no matter their life experience, and ready to be active participants in Bishop’s culture”. Students will leave O-Week well prepared for their courses thanks to the efforts of SRC executives and extraordinary volunteers.
The SRC’s Safe Drive service returns in time for Orientation Week
By Christina Lépine - Staff Writer
In March 2024, the SRC launched a trial of the Safe Drive pilot project as a safe transportation service offered by students for students to be picked up on campus and dropped off on and off campus. At the start of Orientation Week, the SRC announced the return of this pilot project for the upcoming semester. I met with Taylor Morgan, the SRC director of finance, who is leading this project with SRC president Drew Henkel and general manager Jody Goodsell, to learn more about this initiative.
The creation of the Safe Drive pilot project
In the Fall of 2023, the Board of Student Representatives created the Safe Drive committee, tasked with the scaffolding of this project. This committee was composed of Sophia Stacey, former SRC president, Olivia Woods, former vice-president of student life, Kendra Brock, manager of the health clinic, Carson Brooks, manager of security, Brandon Leblanc, former SRC director of finance, Chloé Rouleau, former environmental representative and Taylor Morgan, general councillor at the time. The committee met frequently to create the logo, rules and regulations for the
Tservice. They also planned the acquisition of vehicle and car insurance, training components for Safe Drive employees, as well as the allocated budget and safety measures. The trial of this pilot project was launched on Thursday, Mar. 14 for the festivities of St-Patrick’s weekend, and was offered to students during weekends in April and throughout the Library Learning Commons study hall from Apr. 13 to Apr. 22.
This Summer, Morgan took over this project by working on the logistics of the service, from car rentals to the hiring of employees and managers, to organizing
employee training. The SRC hired drivers and a Safe Drive manager, Carley Vinkle, to run and manage this service. All employees underwent thorough training in accordance with the Safe Drive practices, such as specific safety regulations to follow, both general and scenario-based. In addition, first aid and naloxone training were given, as well as in-depth consent and sexual violence training. As director of finance, Morgan must consider all financial components affecting the feasibility of the project. He mentioned that “this project would not be feasible without the addition of the student safety fee” following the
March 2024 referendum.
How to use the Safe Drive service? This semester, Safe Drive will run on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. The SRC is using the services of Communauto to rent cars every weekend at a cheaper price, as car insurance is already included in Communauto’s rental rates. Every week, the SRC’s Instagram, @bu_src, will post the car model – enabling students to easily identify the car on campus – as well as the hours of operation, should they change for specific events. Safe Drive magnets will also be on the car at all times during hours of operation. Students can call Safe Drive at +1 (437) 849-6502 for a ride home from an on-campus location or to get to another on-campus location. Safe Drive now brings students within a 4 km radius of campus, but students must provide employees with a specific drop-off address. All service users must fill out a form including their name, student identification number, pickup time and drop-off location, and they are highly encouraged to fill out the feedback form. Morgan highlights that the SRC “would love the student feedback, as it is a pilot project”, and they wish to improve the service for students’ enjoyment and safety. Morgan highlighted that he hopes Safe Drive will be part of the SRC’s operations after a year of experimenting with this pilot project.
he Campus acknowledges that the land on which we operate is stolen land, the traditional territory of the Abenaki people. We live, learn, work, and play on this land, home to Indigenous peoples still living. Canada was founded through colonization, a system rooted in oppression and the abuse of power over others, continuing to affect First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities today. As a student newspaper, The Campus has a responsibility to highlight truth. We are committed to prioritizing underrepresented voices in our community and proactively highlighting Indigenous peoples’ histories and ongoing realities, including their resilience and achievements. We recognize our work plays a role in shaping public perceptions, being able to call-out injustice but also call-in action. We emphasize that we must go beyond a land acknowledgement, which is only one step towards reconciliation. It is the stories in our paper – told with respect, accuracy, and integrity – and the respect and humility we show to the land and others that is more important than what is written in a land acknowledgement. Actionable steps to go beyond a land acknowledgement include educating ourselves and others, and supporting Indigenous traditions, movements, and businesses. —The Campus Team
Photo courtesy of Jeryka Howard
Graphic courtesy of Damita Melchi
Halle Brindley, Opinions Editor » thecampus.opinions@gmail.com
Why the American presidential elections will be bittersweet at best
As we head towards the end of 2024, the world finds itself once again focused on the American presidential race. A few years ago, watching a race like the one we are witnessing today would have been exhilarating and empowering to me. To think that the most powerful country in the world could be on the brink of electing its first Black and Indian female president. Yet instead of being inspired by the prospect of this historical event coming to pass, I find myself feeling bittersweet and fearful about the election.
To begin, the prospect of a Trump re-election is chilling to the core. When he won his first term in 2016, I was in secondary five. I remember the eerie silence in class the next day and some of my classmates—fellow BIPOC classmates— had even broken down into tears. Eight years later, and we find ourselves once again with his racist, misogynist, transphobic, capitalist and now felon running for the most consequential role on the planet. The sole fact that a person like Trump received the Republican nomination, when Black queer people like me are not even deemed worthy to live by those same people, was a violent admission of indifference.
The true pain, however, from this presidential campaign was the realization that I could not in good faith say that I am happy to see Kamala Harris perform. There was a time in which there would have been nothing more that I would rather see than a BIPOC woman being democratically elected over a bigot like Trump. Since then, however, we have been witnessing genocides unfold with our very eyes, including under the administration of which Harris is currently a member. Since then, I have advocated for a ceasefire for months. Since then, I lived in an
encampment that showed me an alternative way of being in community. I can no longer ignore the fact that although some of her policies are arguably better than Trump’s, she has also continued to support imperialist interests.
I now see the world as a web of interconnected systems that impact our collective wellbeing. The oppressive systems that affect some of us, chain all of us. In fact, whether we speak of transmisogyny, the patriarchy, white supremacy or imperialism, we are all referring to different faces of the same system. I do not believe that Kamala Harris, nor the Democratic Party in general, are detached from these systems of oppression. It is no longer sufficient to claim that you want peace in Gaza while simultaneously denying Palestinian Americans the opportunity to share their stories at your national convention. It is no longer sufficient to claim to have the best interests of all Americans at heart while walking back on prior promises to defund the police and refund community services. It is no longer sufficient to make a claim and then have one’s actions or inactions contradict that claim.
Let me make one thing clear: I would rather see Harris in the White House any day over Trump. Nevertheless, I will not be deluding myself into thinking that her election will solve our problems. Unless she puts her money where her mouth is, a Harris administration will simply mean a continuation of the violent imperialist policies that the United States have historically adopted, whether headed by a democratic party or not. These are the reasons why I am pained and disillusioned. So, I choose to avoid news of the American presidential campaign… for now.
Instead, I choose to process this grief and try to turn it into energy to work towards our collective liberation, to get to the root of our problems. As Angela Davis famously wrote in her address “Let Us All Rise Together: Radical Perspectives on Empowerment for Afro-American Women”:
“If we are not afraid to adopt a revolutionary stance—if, indeed, we wish to be radical in our quest for change—then we must get to the root of our oppression. After all, radical simply means “grasping things at the root.”
The reality is, we cannot allow a democratic victory to lull us into a false sense of complacency. What does it matter for a president to look like me if the actions they take do not help our communities? No matter who wins the election in November, we will have to continue to fight for a free Palestine, for an end to capitalist violence and for a true revolution.
Discover the flourishing arts at BUSRC Extra’s club fair
The creative clubs thrived at BUSRC Extra’s 2024 club fair thanks to their thoughtful executions and energetic presence. As a second-year returning student, I appreciate how the artistic clubs put time and effort into making the fair an inviting experience. The members made little gestures that created a significant impact and gave me optimism that I would choose a university with a kind community and strong extracurriculars.
Based on my experience, the SRC’s annual club fair provides the opportunity to branch out and find like-minded individuals who share the same interests. From the get-go, the event room was filled with a bustling energy that reminded me of what I liked most about Bishop’s–ambition. The creative clubs embodied this value as I approached them and asked questions about how they contribute to the Bishop’s community. I was seeking opportunities that would provide a setting to meet people, create projects and reflect on my peers. I felt reassured that this goal would be met and could be sought after with a sign-up sheet.
In total, five clubs stood out to me, and their energy inspired me to consider what I’d be doing during the next eight months. These clubs include the Bishop’s University Student Representative Council (BUSRC),
The Campus, Bishop’s Undergraduate Research Journal (BURJ), Bishop’s Book Club and the Mindfulness, Yoga & Meditation Club. Each organization had their approaches to attracting students but unanimously focused on accessibility and outreach.
I found that Bishop’s Undergraduate Research Journal (BURJ) did an excellent job of presenting open positions, sparking interest in potential involvement. Seeing “Communications Manager” listed stood out to me, since, like many students, I’ve recently chosen my minor. Initially nervous about how I would incorporate the minor into extracurriculars, I was delighted to see how the BURJ values interpersonal connections to creative journalism. Each of the clubs provided scannable QR codes, sign-up sheets and social media information. Combined, there were three ways in which I, or an interested student, could get involved and take their interests one step further. Now that I follow those accounts on Instagram, I can get information by email or via social media. There is a possibility that by providing both formal and casual platforms, a sweet spot for genuine connection is found.
My favorite part was when new faces welcomed me, ready to converse about things like recommendations, book exchanges and fine arts involvement. Seeing other students’ passion for journalism,
meditative writing, artistic media and a craving for creation felt like the first time I toured Bishop’s. Walking through the booths and seeing the details put into planning, such as free pens and stickers, shaped an appreciation for the little gestures that can mean a lot to individuals.
The creative arts clubs at the BUSRC Extra club fair harbored enriching
conversations, thoughtful exchanges and a space for inspiration. It felt extra special reaffirming what goals I wanted to check off during this school year, and how the clubs encouraged innovative energy. A full school year and two club fairs later, I can say I’m inspired by the institution, its artistic clubs and most of all, my peers.
Photo courtesy of Emily Crunican
Graphic courtesy of Payton Langevin
By Juliette ZakrzewskaContributor
By Virginia Rufina Marquez-Pacheco - Contributor
Halle Brindley, Opinions Editor » thecampus.opinions@gmail.com
I’d rather know nothing
By Halle Brindley - Opinions Editor
Honestly, I’d rather know nothing than know everything. Call it a reverse genius. Hi, this is my dropout notice! I’m kidding.
Truly though, in any learning setting, I would much rather prefer being the person who knows nothing than the one who knows it all. It can feel embarrassing to raise your hand and ask questions in class, especially the ones that feel like you should already know the answer to, but it’s crucial. Now, I won’t go on and say that, “there is no dumb question,” but a majority of questions aren’t! Even the clarifying questions. For instance, my professor may
have already said something, but I go Zendaya mode and put that information on replay to hear it again for a better understanding just to make sure I’m supposed to cite it in MLA.
If you don’t know the answer to something and don’t ask about it, what else are you going to do? Make something up? I don’t think so.
The recent 2024 presidential debate with Kamala Harris and Donald Trump showed that asking questions can make a huge difference. For example, perhaps candidate Trump would have not said abortion can happen after childbirth if he asked, “What are abortion laws currently like in the United States?” before the debate. That’s the value of a good Q and A!
University is, please don’t take this the wrong way, about more than just drinking. Even Bishop’s is no exception to being a University of Project X. You’re paying to go here, to learn. That’s why you are here. The professors here actually assume you are not an expert in everything. Educators even hope for it, otherwise you’re just wasting your time, you brainiac, you. This might seem obvious, but when your classmates seem to know facts upon facts, you can feel like you are the only one in the class who knows nothing… and that’s okay!
I asked Associate English professor, Dr. Gregory Brophy, to provide his take on the anxiety of feeling like
The internships of a lifetime
“Sorry, we do not offer internships to undergraduate students; good luck with the rest of your inquiries,” read one of the many emails of my attempts at securing an internship in psychology. Competition in psychology masters is tough; internships are one of the best ways to make yourself competitive. It is unsurprising then that as I advanced in my degree and kept receiving these rejections, my stress was at an alltime high. This was until one morning in March, when the Experiential Learning Office changed everything. The office had sent an email with a few different internships to apply to. A link was provided with detailed information on what the internship entailed and how to apply. Everything about the application process was straightforward. Of course, even though these internships are through the school, it still means that you need to put some effort into your CV and cover letter if you wish to be interviewed and chosen as the intern. This process might be scary, but the fantastic thing is that the Experiential Learning Office offers us lots of resources on how to prepare for that.
Several new advertisements were posted for new positions, and they were consistently unique. This is
very cool because it allows students to make sure they can find something that could strike their interest.
I remember being quite intimidated when applying because working for the first time in mental health with real people is challenging for any student. What if I do not know what to do? What if working in mental health affects my mental health? Once again, the Experiential Learning Office acted as a considerable support through their virtual training session that provided us with resources to help us and habits to adopt in times of distress.
The Experiential Learning Office was also very involved throughout the internship through check-in emails and virtual reflection meetings. These meetings were focused on reflecting on the work I have done so far and seeing if there was anything I wished my internship had shown me. The virtual reflection meetings were a safe space to discuss challenges, share successes and receive feedback.
More than just a first-time working experience, the internship I secured was a transformative experience. It reshaped my approach to mental health in ways I never anticipated and it gave me the invaluable opportunity to develop new skills and mindsets. I was trusted with real responsibilities and had the chance to make a tangible impact. This was no coffee-fetching internship from the movies. It
you don’t belong in a class of people who appear to be both the Q and A’s, to which he said:
“Listening to the insightful comments your peers make in class can be intimidating, and I’ve spoken to many students who’ve told me they feel as though they’re the only person in the room who doesn’t understand what’s going on.
The reality is that every student has those questions. Some hold them silently, not wanting to expose the (scandalous!) fact that they’ve arrived at university without already having all the answers. Others boldly raise their hands, and press the professor to slow-walk an idea they’ve sprinted through (always a productive and challenging exercise for me). In so doing, they earn the gratitude of every peer who wondered, but didn’t dare to ask.
Intellectual uncertainty, and on a larger level, the academic struggles that every student experiences at some level, are not indicators of your intelligence. They are opportunities to reflect and grow.”
So, yes, I would rather know nothing. By the time you start collecting dust on your shoulders, like me, you will know so much more than when you first stepped into university. You will have become the class genius you were once in awe of.
And by the way, I still ask questions.
was evident that significant effort was invested to make sure that the students got the best out of it.
Based on my experience, if you’re a psychology student, the Experiential Learning Office is a
resource you can’t afford to miss. With the hope that they will continue to publish internship opportunities this year, I encourage you to explore this unique platform to gain real-life, hands-on experience, which is truly invaluable.
Graphic courtesy of Payton Langevin
Graphic courtesy of Payton Langevin
By Ilona Plat - Contributor
The dish
By Daniel Lee - Contributor
Ultimate frisbee. What is ultimate?
Ultimate is a fast-paced, football, American-style sport played with a regulation 175g disc. Each point begins with a “pull,” similar to a kickoff in football, and advances up the field as players attempt to catch the disc in the end zones. If the disc is dropped, intercepted or knocked down, the opposing team gains possession and the chance to score. Matches can vary in field size, final score and the number of players on the field. This versatility allows ultimate to be played in a variety of styles.
I first played ultimate six years ago on my high school team. It was a competitive, co-ed 7v7 league against other schools. Interestingly, that’s when I first encountered Luke Barrack, who now co-leads the BU Ultimate Frisbee Club with me. Years later, Luke and I reconnected at university, bonding over our mutual passion for ultimate frisbee.
Fun fact: our school used to have an ultimate frisbee club, but it eventually lost traction and dissolved. That inspired Luke and I to relaunch the BU Ultimate Frisbee Club.
After going through the necessary procedures with the SRC and club sports, we
officially revived the club in September 2023. Our first meeting attracted around 20 people. Fast forward to September 2024, and we had nearly 50 members attend our first drop-in session of the year!
As the club continues to grow, our expansion plans are becoming a reality. Since the beginning, Luke and I have envisioned playing a competitive match on Coulter Field in front of fans—an ambitious goal that continues to drive us. This ambition has shaped our efforts to build a competitive team.
In other news, we’ve started forming a competitive team with plans to participate in the Canadian University Ultimate Championships. At the same time, we’re committed to maintaining a recreational side to the club. The diverse skill levels of our members give us the chance to mentor and coach athletes through drills and scrimmages. By splitting the field in half, we can hold competitive practices on one side while keeping the other side open for recreational play.
Watching the club grow from an idea into something that has become a meaningful part of others’ lives is truly special. We have no plans to slow down and hope to see the club continue to thrive.
Gaiters stun X-Men in Lennoxville
By Dylan Monico - Contributor
On Aug. 31, 2024 the 10th-ranked Bishop’s Gaiters took down the 8th-ranked X-men of St. Francis Xavier 37-27 on Coulter Field. The Gaiters handed X their first loss to an Atlantic University Sport (AUS) opponent since Oct. 11, 2019, ending a 28-game win streak. The Gaiters win snaps an 8-game losing streak against the X-men and helps them improve to 2-0 on the season, earning them first place in the conference after the first three week of league
play.
Justin Quirion (3rd-year, Saint-Georges, QC) returns as the signal caller for the Gaiters and was a tremendous 29-37 for 361 passing yards, adding two touchdowns. Quirion’s main target against the X-men was 5th-year receiver Oliver Burnett (Fredericton, NB). Burnett finished the day with six catches for 103 yards and a touchdown. As successful as Bishops was through the air, the Gaiters also attributed 259 yards on the ground. Leading the charge for the Gaiters was second year running
back O’shae Ho-Sang (Lasalle, QC). Ho-Sang was a spark against the X-men as he tallied 124 rushing yards off of 18 carries, also scoring two touchdowns. In addition, HoSang contributed three catches for 57 yards and an additional 143 yards in the return game. Ho-Sang could not be stopped by the opposition, as he combined for 324 all-purpose yards and two touchdowns. Veteran running back Marco Briones (5th year, Monterrey, Mexico) was another constant on the field, earning 95 yards of his own.
Together, the Gaiters offense totalled 604 yards, more than doubling the total of the St. FX. The offense of Bishops wasn’t the only story in the win, as the Gaiter’s defense held the X-men to just 284 total yards. Senior defensive lineman Brandon-James Poulin-Marques (5th year, Montreal, QC) was a force in the trenches, gathering four solo tackles including two tackles for loss and a sack. On the backend for the defense Jean Aubert (4th year, Lyon, France) was phenomenal, racking up six total tackles including one tackle for loss, as well as two pass breakups. Krystopher Isidore (5th year, Montreal, QC) was another crucial piece in the passing game for the Gaiters defense, garnering three pass breakups of his own. Gaiters kicker Xavier Gervais (4th year, Ottawa, On) knocked through two field goals and was 4 for 4 on point after attempts.
The Gaiters move onto a bye week after defeating X and will be back in action on Coulter Field, on Saturday, Sept. 14 at 2 p.m. as they look to defend home soil against the visiting Axemen of Acadia.
Photo courtesy of Francois Quiriom
Graphic courtesy of The Ultimate Frisbee Club
Gaiters rugby historic start to the season
Lennoxville Quebec, home to the Bishop’s Gaiters, saw the 2024 RSEQ Women’s Rugby season commence. The Gaiters were playing host to the visiting Concordia Stingers. Concordia, a nationally ranked team, entered Coulter field as favorites over the Gaiters. However, with the heavy recruitment and new additions to the team by head coach Tom Whyld, the Gaiters showed great resilience. Early in the game, both teams were going back and forth. Bishops, with their back against the wall on the
try line a couple of times, had a “bend, but don’t break” mentality. They fought hard to the end of the game but came up short, falling to the Stingers by a score of 28-10. Heading back to the drawing board, they prepared for their next game against the Carleton Ravens. They were the second half of a doubleheader between the Ravens and the Gaiters.
The men’s rugby team kicked off their season with a whopping 60-0 win over the Ravens. The rough winds and chilly atmosphere stood no chance against the fiery offense led by the team’s number nine Owen McDonnell.
McDonell had a career performance, scoring two tries and three conversions. He commanded the field and was a presence on both sides of the ball. His performance granted him the nod as the Player of the Game.
A 3:15 p.m. kickoff showcased the women’s Rugby team back in action for their second home game of the season. In a tight contest against the Ravens, history was struck. Both teams went back and forth and struggled with the harsh climate, with their kicking games being affected, they had to lean on their grit and determination to get the job done. It
was the sophomore Sadie Bull who led the charge on offense, scoring 2 tries on the day. Assisting in the offense was none other than Melody Leggett. Leggett attracted contact and never shied away on defense. The final score of the game was 27-27, marking history as the first time Bishop’s has not been defeated by the Ravens.
Both teams are back in action this weekend on the road. The women’s team will be in Quebec playing the defending national champions, the Laval Rouge et Or. The men will be in Montreal against ETS.
BU club hockey: Ready to take the AAU
by storm
As the 2024-25 season is nearly upon us, the BU club hockey team will be gearing up for an exciting season of hockey. After coming in ninth, the team
finished just shy of the needed top eight position at Nationals in Philadelphia last year to advance past the round robin. Now, the team will be looking for vengeance.
The boys are coming into the season with a new look to the coaching staff,
as prior coach Trevor Gnall graduated the past year. Taking over head coaching duties is former player, and reigning male athlete of the year, Ryan Massicotte. Ryan comes in having put up an impressive 90 points through 30 games for Bishops in the past three seasons, two of which saw him as an assistant captain for the program.
Joining him will be Will Leclerc and Jordan Chabot as assistant coaches. Will has a stellar hockey resume that saw him torch Junior AAA in Quebec as well as suit up for a few games in the QMJHL as a member of the Drummondville Voltigeurs. He would then proceed to play two seasons for the Concordia Stingers U Sports program before joining Bishops, which saw him put up a staggering 55 points in just 12 games played with the team. Jordan is no slouch either when it comes to his resume in the hockey world, seeing as he was a Gatineau Olympiques draft pick in his younger years. He would then play three seasons of Cégep hockey for the Champlain Cougars before eventually making his way over to Bishop’s. In his time with the team, he would put up
13 points over nine games, before a lingering hip injury would force him to be sidelined and require surgery, thus ending his stint as a player on the team.
With the new coaching staff in place, the team looks primed to compete once again for a prestigious national championship in only the team’s 3rd official year as a member of the AAU. With the departure of former Captain Keyan Hogan to play pro hockey in Sweden, Jo Aubert assumed the captaincy role for the squad. Joining him as assistant captains will be Fred Nicolas, Jack Mcgowan and Felix Lespérance.
With the season quickly approaching, be ready to come out and support your BU Club Hockey team. The schedule is posted on the team’s Instagram, which can be found under the handle @ buclubhockey. The team’s first home games will be on Oct. 5 and 6 against rivals Mass Maritimes Academy. With that being said, let’s drop the puck on a new season of exciting hockey!
Photo courtesy of BU Club Hockey
Photo courtesy of Emma Krobath
By Leighton Geraghty - Contributor
By Owen Kitzan - Sports Editor
Looking forward: PISA’s guide to success
By Lauren Root - Staff Writer
The Politics and International Studies Association’s (PISA) annual “Things I Wish I Knew in First Year” event offered advice and tips for new Bishop’s students, including the best ways to get involved in the Lennoxville community. Both professors and upper-level students shared critical information about university life, covering various topics. Student representatives explained how to get involved with PISA and other clubs, provided insights into Bishop’s International and shared tips on staying on track academically.
PISA is a student-run association, and all students studying politics and international studies are members. PISA holds meetings throughout the year on various topics that are beneficial to political studies students, ranging from academic advice to networking opportunities. Their first meeting of the year was held in the Library’s Agora, where many PISA members and professors spoke. Professors and students from the politics and international studies department attended this event and shared advice for new students.
When asked about the importance of this event for firstyear students, PISA president Sasha Kardos-Machado expressed her desire to ease the transition between high school and university for fellow students. Kardos-Machado explained why she finds this event so important: “It’s a great way to meet other first years right off the bat and interact directly with professors and the chair of the department.” She also emphasized that this event is meant to be a safe place to ask questions so new students can find answers they might be hesitant to ask otherwise.
A major topic of discussion for the meeting was the importance of getting involved in the Bishop’s community outside of the classroom. Irma Susset, The Campus Editor in Chief and political studies student, highlighted the value of getting to know new people with similar interests, she stated, “this can happen in classrooms and club meetings… The beauty of Bishop’s is the accessibility of the community and professors.” She added that “[..] by getting involved in clubs and taking an active role in the community, students can fully understand and experience the true Bishop’s culture.”
Valentin André, currently studying in the politics and international studies department, spoke about Bishop’s International and the many ways to study abroad while earning their Bishop’s degree. During his presentation he highlighted that, “all students have the opportunity to study abroad in a wide variety of destinations worldwide.” If students are interested in studying abroad, they should reach out to Bishop’s International via email or Instagram to learn more about their programs.
Dr. Trygve Ugland, the current chair of the politics and international studies department, spoke on the importance of networking, whether by joining clubs or building relationships with professors. He stressed that “by creating connections with both students and professors, students will feel more comfortable asking questions about their education, such as how to change majors, or how to add a minor.” Dr. Ugland encourages students to contact their professors and academic advisors if they are interested in pursuing a new or second major or a minor.
A final piece of advice shared at the event was that PISA will be updating their Instagram and website in the coming weeks with information about upcoming meetings. All PISA members encourage students, especially first-years, to reach out if they have any questions about courses or community engagement as they settle into the Lennoxville community.
Katlyn Stoneburner, Features Editor » thecampus.features@gmail.com
Photo courtesy of Christina Lépine
Katlyn Stoneburner, Features Editor » thecampus.features@gmail.com
PULSE: Fostering Community Among African and Caribbean Students
By Virginia Rufina Marquez-Pacheco - Contributor
The start of a new academic year has opened doors for students of African and Caribbean descent to build stronger connections and community. A group of seven students is spearheading the creation of a new club, People United for the Love of African and Caribbean Societies Empowerment (PULSE). Once officially approved by the SRC, PULSE will provide a dedicated space where meaningful connections can be fostered. As outlined in their draft constitution: “The purpose of the PULSE is to: provide a safer and empowering space for African and Caribbean students on campus, to increase feelings of belonging in African and Caribbean students on campus, to promote the flourishing of African and Caribbean students on campus, and to educate the nonAfrican and non-Caribbean community on campus.”
As higher education becomes more inclusive, we are seeing an increase in enrollment in students with African and Caribbean heritage.
While this increased accessibility is a great step forward, many still find themselves navigating a predominantly colonial environment, which can make it challenging in terms of retention and success in higher education programs. PULSE aims to combat this by creating spaces that celebrate African and Caribbean student achievements and offering vital support. At its core, PULSE is built on six key principles: community, empowerment, safety, culture, diversity, and flourishing.
To promote these principles, PULSE aims to host a variety of activities and events designed to build community and celebrate culture. These include Gait nights, potlucks,
sports events, paint-and-sip nights, and much more. Additionally, showcasing the rich diversity of the African and Caribbean cultures will be a central piece to PULSE’s mission. Educational events such as financial literacy workshops, discussion nights on relevant issues affecting the community, and talks from guest speakers all feature among the proposed events.
A key aspect of PULSE’s approach is their commitment to listening to the needs of the communities it represents. Drawing from the experience and lessons of past clubs, PULSE organizers are determined to create a stronger club that truly reflects the needs of the students it serves. Their executive team will always be open to input, ensuring the community has a voice in the decision-making process and can guide the direction of the club moving forward.
Shakesperience: Immersing students in Shakespeare and citizen building
By Katlyn Stoneburner - Features Editor
This summer, students from Bishop’s University, Carleton University, Mount Allison University and the University of Northern British Columbia embarked on a unique journey to the Stratford Festival for Shakesperience, an immersive and experiential course run by Drs. Jessica Riddell (Bishop’s), Lisa Dickson (UNBC) and Shannon Murray (UPEI). The course is not just about Shakespeare, but about building community, fostering hope and engaging in deep, collective learning.
Building beyond the classroom
The course spanned three weeks of online modules, including micro-lectures, podcasts and other asynchronous assignments, culminating in a week-long trip to Stratford, ON. This year’s theme, “A World Elsewhere,” was particularly fitting, as it highlighted how “theatre builds worlds that are removed from our own everyday experiences so we can see and think differently,” said Dr. Riddell. The theme encouraged students to move beyond passive observation and actively engage with live performance through new perspectives.
Participants reflected on the impact of the course’s focus on self-directed learning. Many found the opportunity to consider the difference between being a student and a learner transformative, highlighting the value of developing agency in their own lives. This reflection highlights one of the central ideas of the experience: that learning involves more than absorbing information—it is about actively shaping your own experience.
The Stratford experience
Once in Stratford, students were immersed in a rich array of live performances, behind-the-scenes tours and interactive workshops. As Dr. Riddell noted, the festival invited audiences into “worlds elsewhere,”
helping participants “expand imaginations and build hope circuits”—a key objective of Shakesperience. The course’s intergenerational nature also played a significant role in fostering diverse dialogues. Through meaningful conversations, participants realized that despite their differences, they had much in common. Recalling conversations had with fellow participants, Hoya Kabayiza noted that these exchanges “made the trip even more special and showed how no matter what age we are, we have a lot more in common than we think.”
Kabayiza considered the impact of these shared experiences, contemplating how the group, despite their differences in age, bonded over their love for theatre and the arts. “I feel like there were so many moments throughout this experience that stood out to me,” Kabayiza shared. From seeing the shows to learning fun choreography from Something Rotten, Kabayiza emphasized that one of the most memorable moments was the first night when the group came together and shared their favorite things about theatre. “It made it such a full circle with the last night, with how much we connected in a short period of time,” Kabayiza added, highlighting how the experience of forming such connections underscored the importance of the theatre community.
The diversity of life experiences within the group also brought forth new perspectives. Participants noted how the wide variety of viewpoints led to diverse questions and insights, opening up new ways of thinking that otherwise might have gone unexplored. Some described stepping outside their comfort zones as an essential part of their personal growth during the experience, helping to cultivate growth and transformation through the experience. Dr. Riddell emphasized that both theatre and universities act as “hope circuits,” teaching us to slow down, reflect, practice divergent thinking and embrace the complexities of the world. Students were not just spectators of Shakespeare’s work—they learned to question traditional authority and engage
deeply with their communities. Students were asked to contemplate the importance of ongoing personal growth despite uncertainty, emphasizing the belief that while the future is unpredictable, individuals have the power to shape it through their efforts.
A broader impact
Shakesperience is deeply tied to concepts of justice, equity and empathy. According to Dr. Riddell, “Higher education and the Stratford Festival share a common purpose of citizen building and collective action that centers justice, equity and empathy.” For participants, the experience of being part of such a diverse group allowed them to reconsider how they viewed others and what unites people across differences. The course’s intergenerational aspect broadened horizons, teaching participants how to play an active role in an ever-evolving Canadian society.
At its core, Shakesperience is about more than just Shakespeare—it is about engaging with theatre and education as essential public institutions. “Canada has the best publicly funded, social mission institutions in the world,” said Dr. Riddell. “Alongside higher education, the Stratford Festival is essential to the creation and maintenance of a civil and just society.” Participants came away from the experience with a renewed sense of the importance of community building, with many reflecting on how the experience inspired them to take an active role in improving the world around them. The program fostered an environment where participants could reflect, connect, and build bridges, emphasizing the significance of shared experience in creating lasting bonds.
With a shared mission of world-building in collective and communal spaces, Shakesperience exemplifies how theatre can unite diverse thinkers and challenge students to imagine a better world.
Graphic courtesy of PULSE
ARTS & CULTURE
Abby Epstein, Arts & Culture Editor » thecampus.artsculture@gmail.com
Foreman Art Gallery launches first exhibit of the 2024/25 Year
By Jillian French - News Editor
This past Friday, the Foreman Art Gallery opened its doors to the Bishop’s and Eastern Townships community for an evening of art, conversation and refreshments. The reception marked the opening of Small Things, a collection of work by resident artists Maude Arès and Douglas Scholes, curated by Noemie Fortin. Fortin created the theme Small Things as a tribute to the artists’ common appreciation of the minute, often unnoticed elements of everyday life.
The exhibit results from a year-long residency with the Bishop’s ArtLab. During this time, the artists frequent La Généreuse, a farm in the heart of the Eastern Townships. Maude Arès felt inspired simply by “being in a relationship with people” at the farm, adding that “the farm was already in [the art]”. Through her art, Arès challenges us to observe our relationship to matter, encouraging visitors to appreciate the “vitality of material”. Scholes, for his part, focuses on the scraps of trivial life, creating art out of ordinary objects and actions observed in day-to-day life. In the exhibit, memories
and meaning emerged from traces of the unexceptional.
Additionally, the gallery screened the film Subsistances by artist Raphaëlle de Groot. This documentary-style film highlights the region of Minganie, Quebec, exploring a series of small towns and their communities. The film tackles the complex relationships between the land and its people, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous. During the reception, de Groot described the piece as “at once a documentary and poetry” and said that living in the region “changed [her] life”.
The exterior of the gallery also featured the ArtLab’s Connections series, which invites Bishop’s students and faculty to bring new perspectives to existing art through written testimony describing their experience with the art. In the exhibit, student Anna Izmaylova reflects on her relationship to the sculptures, photography and prints of Canadian artist Stanley Lewis. Through three highlighted pieces, she contemplates her family’s move to Canada, the philosophy of needs and human infinitude.
Small Things is an ode to the beauty of environmental mundanity and is well worth visiting. The exhibit runs until Oct. 5 and is, as always, free to the public.
Welcome to the Swamp: Reflections on a Shrek Jr. summer
By Fiona Tremblay - Contributor
Bishop’s University’s very own black box theatre did not see calm as the rest of Lennoxville did this summer. The swamp was very much alive in Turner Studio as Adam Laberee Productions (ALP) rehearsed Shrek the Musical Jr. as part of their summer camp program. ALP Drama was founded by Bishop’s alumni, Adam Laberee. “I started ALP to give kids an opportunity to explore their interest in drama and see if it becomes a passion. I want them to experience each element involved in theatre, from creative design all the way to the performance,” says Laberee of his vision. Alongside Laberee, this summer’s ALP team included Jennifer Little, ALP’s head of administration; Fiona Tremblay, lighting designer and director; and Laura Fernandez who took on costume design and direction and all members of the Bishop’s drama community. Current drama student Katie Dodd was also crucial to the success of the project, manning props, aiding in set design and assisting with technical aspects of the theatre.
The drama camp had just shy of five weeks to put on the production and saw a booming success along with it. The camp ran Monday through Thursday with week one being auditions and week five being the performance, giving the camp approximately 17 days of active rehearsal time. The cast composed of 26 kids between the ages of 8 and 15 performed to a sold-out audience on each of their scheduled nights. A third show was added due to popular demand - also sold out. The participants of the ALP summer program worked alongside their directors throughout every aspect of the production from lighting, painting, set design, and costume design. Even the official Shrek the Musical Jr. poster was designed by the show’s Donkey, ArielleBella Carolus Marois.
The success of ALP’s first production leaves Laberee optimistic going forward into the school year with their first afterschool production – which, spoiler alert, is yet another blockbuster musical. The ALP team is expected to stick around on campus, hoping that their next production takes place on Centennial Stage. It would be a fantastic opportunity for kids and audiences alike to experience the magic of theatre, right at the heart of campus.
Photo courtesy of Jillian French
Photo courtesy of Jennifer Little
Graphic courtesy of Payton Langevin
ARTS & CULTURE
Abby Epstein, Arts & Culture Editor » thecampus.artsculture@gmail.com
The Importance of being Earnest - and of community theatre in the Eastern Townships
FBy Emmett Tinning - Contributor
rom Aug. 29 to Sept. 1, the North Hatley Theatre Troupe presented their long-awaited debut performance, Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest. Directed and brought to life by Bishop’s professor Louise Thibault and performed by a tight-knit group made up entirely of Bishop’s students and alumni, Turner Studio Theatre was packed full for three nights of sold-out shows. Having started rehearsals in North Hatley only on Aug. 13, the troupe had just over three weeks to pull together Wilde’s infamous comedy. Full of hilarious banter, scheming and romance, the troupe delivered a show that brought a smile to the faces of guests of all ages and walks of life.
After a last-minute venue swap, the cast and crew were relieved and grateful to be welcomed by Bishop’s Turner Studio Theatre space. Together, they designed a gorgeous set to carry the audience to a 19th-century manor house, a vine-filled rose garden and a luxury flat in London. Kasimir Macdougall, who took on the role of assistant to the director on top of acting with the group, said of the final product: “Earnest was a team of incredibly passionate and devoted individuals who came together to produce a product that exceeded expectation in such a short timeline. We’re incredibly proud of all we have done and are incredibly grateful for everyone
New Beginnings
By Arielle Leclerc - Contributor
The New Moon crescents in the sky And suddenly
The air starts to smell of new possibilities
A hint of autumn leaves
A dash of whimsy
The old and the new mix together on school grounds
And festivities are at their highest.
The soil is running cold, and the light is slipping out of our hands
But a fresh start awaits
And by the time the Full Moon forms
May we inevitably meet again.
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Irma Susset thecampus.editor@gmail.com
SENIOR COPY EDITOR
Olivia Norby thecampus.copyeditor@gmail.com
JUNIOR COPY EDITOR
Eryn Costello
who put work into this show and for everyone who enjoyed it”. Kasimir, who stepped into the leading role of Algernon Moncrieff, is a second-year student at Bishop’s, studying drama with a concentration in musical theatre.
This connection between the Bishop’s drama department and community theatre in the Eastern Townships is one many hope to foster and strengthen in the future. Productions like this and groups like the North Hatley Theatre Troupe bring together residents from all over the townships and of all ages - not only to be a part of productions themselves but to indulge in the joyful act of experiencing and enjoying theatre as an audience member. When asked about her favourite part of the process, Director Louise Thibault reflected, “My favourite part was seeing all the ideas and characters develop into a great show... we believed we could produce a great show in a slim time frame, and we truly did. Great talent and hard work”. Cast and crew reflected on the sense of community fostered throughout the rehearsal process, bringing opportunity and excitement into the otherwise relatively stagnant summer months for Bishop’s students who remained in Lennoxville. The collaboration and connection required for passion projects like this are truly touching and never fail to make a beautiful impact on the arts and culture scene in any community, let alone such a unique setting as the Townships.
LAYOUT EDITOR
Melanie Toppa thecampus.layout@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
PHOTOGRAPHER
NEWS EDITOR
Jillian French thecampus.news@gmail.com
OPINIONS
ECONOMICS AND BUSINESS EDITOR
Joseph Aubert
thecampus.businesseditor@gmail.com
STAFF WRITERS thecampus.juniorcopyeditor@gmail.com
DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
Kai Luginbuhl thecampus.business@gmail.com
Kate Vandermeulen
@thebishopscampus Instagram
Emily Crunican thecampus.photographers@gmail.com
GRAPHICS EDITOR
Payton Langevin
Angus Whyte thecampus.associateeditor@gmail.com graphicseditor.thecampus@gmail.com
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS
Halle Brindley
thecampus.opinions@gmail.com
FEATURES EDITOR
Katlyn Stoneburner
thecampus.features@gmail.com
SPORTS EDITOR
Owen Kitzan
thecampus.sports@gmail.com
ARTS AND CULTURE EDITOR
Abby Epstein
thecampus.artsculture@gmail.com
Christina Lépine
THIS ISSUE’S CONTRIBUTORS:
Virginia Rufina Marquez-Pacheco
Damita Melchi
Ilona Plat
Fiona Tremblay
Emmett Tinning
Arielle Leclerc
Leighton Geraghty
Dylan Monico Juliette Zakrzewska
Jeryka Howard
Photo courtesy of Louise Thibault
Graphic courtesy of Payton Langevin
ECONOMICS & BUSINESS
BU Commerce Society Brings Students Together at Annual Golf Tournament
By Joseph Aubert - Economics & Business Editor
The Bishop’s University Commerce Society (BUCS) hosted its second annual golf tournament on Sunday, Sept. 15 at Bishop’s University’s very own Old Lennoxville Golf Club. Drawing together students from different programs, the tournament proved to be a day of sportsmanship, networking and community building.
Organized by BUCS, the event was not just an afternoon for students to work on their “short games”, but a chance to get together as a community, all the while furthering BUCS’ mission of enhancing the undergraduate business student experience at Bishop’s. The tournament was designed to encourage student engagement and leadership, aligning with the Commerce Society’s goal of inspiring students to reach their full potential. “Our events are so important for students to come together and create a community within our business school. It is an amazing way to start our semester strong and make connections with other business students in a non-formal way,” said Cleo Wulder, BUCS president, when asked about the importance of such networking events. “It’s really exciting to have such a great group of students within our business school who are willing to connect with others, and I’m very happy BUCS can create an environment for students to branch out with who they might not have had the chance to meet otherwise,” she added.
Students were treated to different experiences throughout the course, as each of Old Lenn’s nine holes was sponsored by local businesses that
play an important role in the Bishop’s community. Participants enjoyed product samples from companies such as Lug Sports, Red Bull, the Gaiter’s Boutique, Purple X Energy Drink, Bishop’s Arches Brewery, the Golden Lion Pub, Laiterie de Coaticook and the BU Charity Fashion Show. The contribution of these businesses helped create a sense of community around the event and offered golfers a great networking opportunity within a casual setting.
Following the tournament, students were invited to the Old Lennoxville clubhouse, where a reception was held, bringing together a variety of students. This was a key highlight of the day, as it allowed participants to connect with classmates from different programs and concentrations, while also reflecting the BUCS’ commitment to promoting the Williams School of Business beyond campus boundaries.
The combination of a radiant sunny afternoon engaged participants, and strong business support made the golf tournament a memorable event for all involved. As Bishop’s University Commerce Society continues to foster the William’s School of Business’ values of leadership and collaboration, the annual golf tournament remains one of BUCS’ most popular events of the year, getting students out of the classroom for a fun, unconventional networking event.
With the successful conclusion of this year’s golf tournament, students and organizers alike are looking forward to what next year’s tournament will bring. The Bishop’s University Commerce Society would like to invite all business students who may have missed the golf tournament to their business mixer event held on Oct. 1. Details of this upcoming event will follow on social media.
Your summer summary: Major market movements
By Kai Luginbuhl - Director of Finance
As summer winds down and students shift their focus from leisure to academics and career prospects, many business students are eager to re-engage with the financial markets. The past few months have seen notable fluctuations in key stock indices, reflecting a period of significant volatility and growth. This article provides an overview of market movements from April to August, highlighting major trends and developments.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average began a 5.5 per cent surge on Apr. 30, peaking 18 days later on May 17. This nearly 6 per cent increase was also observed in the
Standard & Poor’s 500 (S&P 500), though to a lesser extent in the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX). However, the Dow’s 5.8 per cent peak was almost immediately eliminated by a 4.9 per cent decline for the remainder of the month. Over the next two months, the Dow saw substantial growth, climbing from 6.5 per cent from May 30 to Jul. 30. Yet, a sudden drop of 5 per cent between Jul. 31 and Aug. 5 offset some of these gains. Following this decline, August concluded on a strong note with a 6.9 per cent growth from Aug. 5 to Aug. 30. Overall, the Dow experienced an 8.8 per cent growth over the summer period (May 1 to Aug. 30), a significant achievement for four months.
Similarly, the S&P 500 enjoyed a nearly 6 per cent surge in early May and continued to climb, ultimately achieving a nearly 12 per cent gain
by mid-July. From Jul. 17 to Aug. 5, the S&P experienced a decline of 8.5 per cent. However, like the Dow, the index rebounded with an almost 9 per cent surge in August, finishing the summer at a six-month high. The S&P 500 ended the period with a 11.1 per cent increase from early May to the end of August. The TSX/ S&P composite indexes recorded a roughly 7 per cent gain during the same timeframe.
Overall, the summer was marked by strong but volatile performance across key indexes. Many factors contributed to this volatility, including global and U.S. political developments, concerns over China’s economic slowdown and ongoing unrest in Ukraine and the Middle East. Additionally, the U.S. election season intensified, with both major candidates solidifying their vicepresidential picks and gearing up for
the final debates and polls. In terms of policy, the U.S. Federal Reserve maintained unchanged interest rates throughout the summer. However, in August, Fed. Chair Jerome Powell stated that “the time has come for policy to adjust”. While Powell’s words have prompted speculation, the only clear signal is that changes from the Federal Reserve are anticipated soon.
This brief overview from April to August does not encompass all the events of the summer. However, it serves as a prompt for investors to revisit financial analyses and stay updated with market trends.
*None of the above is to be taken as financial advice or recommendations to buy or sell securities.
*Kai Luginbuhl is a member of the BU Investment Club
Joseph Aubert, Economics & Business Editor » thecampus.businesseditor@gmail.com
Photo courtesy of Vivienne Webster