The Merciad

Merciad THE

MERCYHURST UNIVERSITY

News .................... 2-5 Features .............. 6-9 A&E .................. 10-11 Opinion .......... 12-13 Sports.............. 14-15 Laker Living.......16

| W E D N E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 1 6 , 2 0 2 0

| VOL. 94 NO. 3

To reduce the spread of germs, please take this copy with you or recycle after reading.

Sr. Mary Paul Carioty turns 90 PAGE 7

COVID Note: Sr. has her mask pulled down for a quick photo-op and puppy kisses!

Online poll results 2: European study abroad trips to resume next spring and fall

10: MU participates in nationwide ‘red alert’ campaign for the arts 15: Exit.44 kickball season begins

We asked: What is the best thing about being back on campus?

Keeping busy with classes, clubs and activities Seeing my friends and professors

PAGE 2

A change of scenery

Having a sense of normalcy

This week’s

What is the best fall flavor?

POLL merciad.mercyhurst.edu

NEWS

PAGE 2

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

European study abroad trips to resume next spring and fall

By Marina Boyle Editor-in-chief

Although COVID-19 has halted some parts of campus life, the Study Abroad program is still moving ahead.

The Office of Global Programs has released details of the experiences for 2021, including FSAT programs in Europe and Greece and the Fall 2021 Mercyhurst in Dungarvan program.

“Study abroad is alive now and we are here to help students learn about our upcoming programs,” Janet Pasco, Coordinator of Administrative Services for Global Programs, said.

“Mercyhurst in Dungarvan, Ireland” gives students the opportunity to travel to Dungarvan, Waterford, Erie’s sister city, for eight weeks. Students earn credits toward their degree and get to explore and experience the best of Irish culture.

Although the program usually runs for the second half of the spring semester, the Office of Global Programs has committed to the Dungarvan experience by changing the date from spring to fall. Students who choose to take part will travel in fall 2021, with preliminary applications already being accepted.

Students who go will enroll in full-time courses offered by Mer-

cyhurst faculty and take many trips and excursions including weekend trips to Dublin and Galway. They will also have a one-week break in a European country, as well as independent mini excursions.

For those considering the program, there are many Dungarvan alumni who can tell you all about how it was one of the best parts of their college experience.

However, for those with a different location or shorter trip in mind, also being offered are two shorter-term Faculty Led Student Academic Programs (FSAT) options. FSAT classes are offered as a mini in either the fall or the spring semester, followed by up to two weeks of travel in either January or May. FSAT courses carry credit that can be used to satisfy students’ REACH core curriculum, including Beyond the Gates, major/minor requirements and electives.

This year students can sign up for “Holocaust in Europe,” which will include travel to Europe in May 2021. Although people of any major can join, classes will be linked to History, English and Criminal Justice, fulfilling REACH E (Expression & Creativity), Reach C (Contexts & Systems) and Reach H (Humans in Connection) requirements.

Lakers can also experience “Food & Wine as Art & Science in Greece.” This trip will be tied to Hospitality Management, fulfilling Reach A (Analytical Thought) and H requirements, and traveling to Greece in May 2021.

Averill Earls, Ph.D., assistant professor of History will teach a History & Memory of the Holocaust class in spring 2021 as an FSAT course for the Europe trip.

“We’re traveling to Germany, Poland and the Czech Republic in May after a semester-long course, and it is going to be an awesome experience. Powerful, of course, and sad, but there will also be plenty of time for fun and exploration of some of Europe’s coolest cities – Berlin, Warsaw and Prague,” said Earls.

Through FSAT courses, Mercyhurst students and faculty that travel abroad make a valuable connection between the classroom and real-world experience.

These programs are a great option for first-time travelers and students whose personal, professional or academic situations do not allow them to be out of the country for an extended period of time.

However, for those longing for a semester-long escape, the Office of Global Programs is still working closely with its partners to

ensure students have this option.

“We are supporting our affiliate partners for semester and summer programs and are more than happy to talk to students about those,” said Pasco.

For any questions regarding study abroad applications, costs or requirements, students can reach out to Pasco or to Heidi Hosey-McGurk, Dean of Global Programs and Experiential Learning. Students can also make a Teams appointment to chat

with a member of the Global Programs staff. More resources are also available on the Hub. Students should apply by Sept.

30 and be aware that scholarships are available for these programs.

“Although programs had to cancel due to COVID this past spring, we want students to know that we are moving forward with study abroad again and we want to keep things going and support our students,” said Pasco.

Contributed photo

Students enjoy their study abroad experience in Ireland as part of an FSAT trip.

EXPERIENCE STUDY ABROAD ENROLLING STUDENTS NOW FOR EUROPE, GREECE, IRELAND SPRING 2021 Faculty Student Academic Travel (FSAT) Programs in EUROPE and GREECE (take a spring course and travel in May for 9-12 days) Holocaust in EUROPE Food and Wine as Art and Science in GREECE

FALL 2021 – MERCYHURST IN DUNGARVAN, IRELAND (accepting preliminary applications) Full term study abroad - 8 Weeks in Ireland Numerous excursions and activities including independent travel Weekend trips to Dublin and Galway One week in a European Country

Earn REACH, Major/Minor or Beyond the Gates credit For more information and an application visit our website:

STUDENT HUB – ACADEMICS – STUDY ABROAD Questions? Email studyabroad@meryhurst.edu Office of Global Programs – Preston 101/105

NEWS

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

PAGE 3

Dating safety in an online world

By Rebecca Dunphy News Editor

Just like everything else in our socially distant world, dating has taken to online platforms as a means for meeting and interacting with new people.

Even though in person interactions may be more limited, it is still important to take precautions to have a healthy online relationship.

“Especially in the face of COVID, emphasis on social distancing and our increasing reliance on on-line communication and social media, we need to be informed in order to stay safe,” Mercyhurst Empowerment and Prevention Program (MEPP) project manager Michael Madonia, said.

The rules of online relationships are very similar to those in person: healthy relationships bring out the best in you and make you feel good about yourself.

“Healthy relationships manifest themselves as healthy communication,” said Madonia.

“Another important part of a healthy relationship is loving yourself.”

Crime Victim Center director of Prevention Education, Amy Blackman notes the importance of setting boundaries online in the same way they are set in person.

“If a person isn’t respecting your boundaries, they aren’t a healthy friend/partner,” Blackman said. “Also, the fact that you can talk about times when you feel uncomfortable by something that’s sent virtually is important. Many students don’t realize just how the receiving of an unsolicited pic can affect someone.”

Consent is also just as important to practice when using social media or another digital platform. Involved parties must communicate about what they want and their comfort levels, free from external pressure.

“If it feels forced, it’s not consensual,” Madonia said. “If you have to be convinced to do something, it’s not consensual.

If you feel like you are “giving in” to get the other person to stop asking, it’s not consensual.”

The rules of consent can be most easily remembered with the pneumonic FRIES, it must

“

Healthy relationships manifest themselves as healthy communication.

Another important part of a healthy relationship is loving yourself.”

Michael Madonia

be freely given, reversible, informed, enthusiastic and specific.

When online interactions and sexting become unwanted or nonconsensual they can be categorized as online harassment. The term includes a variety of unwarranted behaviors including nonconsensual sharing of intimate pictures and videos, coercion, threats, sexualized bullying and unwanted sexualization.

If one of the involved parties is under 18, harsher penalties exist under Pennsylvania’s sexting laws and other charges associated with child pornog-

raphy.

Another issue that exists is sending photographs of another without their consent or knowledge.

“Often overlooked is when a person’s image(s) is shared without their permission,” said Blackman. “Beyond someone sending unsolicited images, finding out that your own picture that was sent to a trusted someone has now made its way to other people or public online spaces [is online harassment.]”

These behaviors can be just as traumatizing as in person sexual assault and need to be taken seriously for the protection of those victimized.

If experiencing online harassment, one of the most important things to do is to avoid escalation. Do not delete the photo, nor respond to the sender. It is also important not to give out any personal information such as an address or geotag.

This is important in preventing stalking behaviors.

The next step should be to tell someone, whether this be a resident assistant, hall director, professor, counselor, Title IX office or Police and Safety. Do

not deal with it alone.

Police and Safety can be contacted by visiting their office on the lower level of McAuley Hall or by calling 814-824-3911.

“If we are going to change the culture of gender-based violence that exists we must pay attention to these issues,” Madonia said.

There are a variety of resources available for those who need them, including specialized advocates from the Crime Victim Center and SafeNet who are offering online services.

In addition to Blackman, Karen Swager from SafeNet will also be holding office hours for students. Both women can be reached via Microsoft Teams or through a call.

Swager can also be reached at (814) 454-8161 and Blackman can be contacted at (814) 4559414.

To learn more about how to protect yourselves and others, contact MEPP project manager Michael Madonia at (814) 8242354 or by emailing mmadonia@mercyhurst.edu.

RAs use creativity and flexibility to create new programs for residents

By Kenzie Schroeder Contributing writer

Res Life programming is looking a bit different this year as it faces challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic. Social distancing has thrown Res Life and RAs for a loop this year on how to bring their residence halls, apartments and townhouses together.

While coming up with programs that follow the COVID-19 rules is difficult, RAs are looking for a more creative outlet.

Warde Hall RA Nick Brodfuehrer has put on two programs so far this year for his residents. His first program took place virtually through a Mercyhurst Trivia Kahoot. His second program was in person, with masks, called “Pop the Bias”.

“Programming has been more challenging this year. Res Life has made many changes on top of new COVID-19 policies that we now have to enforce. Virtual programming is a unique experience, and it has been interesting trying to navigate how to turn a typical program into something virtual,” Brodfuehrer said.

RA for the Wayne Apartments, Lea Chojnacki, did her

own outdoor program this week with her residents. She hosted a tie-dye activity which her residents really enjoyed because of its relaxing and social aspects.

“The program went well. We talked about how art can be a great resource to destress, so it was an awesome opportunity to be able to relax while also being social with other students under the new COVID-19 policies,” Chojnacki said.

All programs must incorporate one pillar from ANCHOR goals RAs must meet. Included in these pillars are values such as Health and Wellness, Respect and Consent and Normalizing Diversity and Inclusion.

Every academic school year, RAs need to complete a minimum of eight active programs and four passive programs.

Active programs should be gathering students through an engaging activity, presentation or opportunity that the residents can participate in. Passive programs have no active participation, but still convey important information and coincide with a program pillar.

Some passive programs include flyers, signage, giveaways, encouragement and social media campaigns.

One program that was hit for Lewis Townhouses was the

“Chalk Your Walk” event. Residents were given chalk for them to decorate their stoop or pathway, which allowed for some creativity in the Lewis Townhouse community.

Resident and junior Intelligence Studies major Maddie Boorse was one of the students who participated in the pro-

gram.

“I thought that the chalk event was a fun, creative way for residents to get outside our homes and express ourselves,” Boorse said. “It was fun to see all the designs that our neighbors did, and some people wrote “don’t forget your mask” as a reminder on their steps,

which was creative.”

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, RAs are still getting out there and hosting programs for their residents, making the Hurst feel more like home!

Kenzie Schroeder photo

Warde Hall RAs and residents mask up to enjoy an event called “Pop the Bias” with splatter paint.

NEWS

PAGE 4

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

Merciad Virtual reality technology IN A MINUTE Meet the RSCOs Different RSCOs will be setting up tables outside of the Student Union every Tuesday and Thursday from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Students can come learn more information about all the different ways to get involved on campus.

Update your resume September is National Update Your Resume Month. Make sure you are job and internship ready by updating your resume.

For help with this process contact Frank Rizzone and Emma Kovacs from the Career Development Center. They can help you with everything you need, from your first resume to landing a job.

Mass of the Holy Spirit The Mass of the Holy Spirit will take place on Sept. 24 at 4:00 p.m.

The service is a beloved Mercyhurst tradition to kick off the fall semester. This year it happens to fall on the 150th anniversary of the Titusville foundation of the Sister of Mercy. To ensure social distancing, mass will be held in person but distributed via Zoom.

Mercy March next week Black Students for Unity and Moralyzer will be hosting a Mercy March for Black Lives on Sept. 21 at 7:00 p.m. outside the Student Union.

Students are invited to brings signs, friends and a mask.

Have a tip for Merciad in a Minute? Want to tell others about your club’s events?

Email us at newsmerciad@ mercyhurst.edu

used in police training

By Marina Boyle Editor-in-chief

Although we have seen much debate in recent times about what the role of police in our society should be, it is a fact that law enforcement officers have increasingly become the first line of contact for mental health crisis situations. For cadets at the Mercyhurst Police Training Academy, understanding mental health has become an integral part of the job.

Interpreting mental health situations is not always something that comes naturally. Because of this, cadets from the Police Academy at North East are preparing to deal with emergency situations involving mental illness in a truly immersive way.

Using virtual reality (VR) technology, cadets get to practice and perfect their response to mental health crisis scenarios. The objective is to help police respond to these emergencies in a safe and effective manner that allows them to deescalate tense situations.

According to research by the Mercyhurst Civic Institute, approximately 10 percent of police calls involve someone who is mentally ill, often with depression, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.

Academy director Bill Hale

helped to acquire the Virtual Reality Training Simulator. It has since been used to introduce cadets to dozens of real-life scenarios including mass shootings and domestic violence. The academy currently includes mandated mental health training in its curriculum, but this was its first time utilizing the VR system to augment mental health training provided in coalition with Safe Harbor of UPMC Western Behavioral Health.

Hale used the technology for the day-long intensive training program on Sept. 3.

“There has always been a block of instruction regarding individuals with special needs,” Hale said.

“We bring in the professionals to get their viewpoint as well as to work on a better approach when engaging individuals.”

Specifically, the cadets worked on two scenarios — talking with a female threatening suicide by jumping from a bridge, and a homeless male who was found sleeping in a laundromat. These two scenarios are designed to push the cadets to engage the individual and open a conversation.

“The VR training simulates situations in near real time. It is fully immersible, so the cadet has a full 360-degree view of surroundings.

The operator works some pre-

Contributed photo

Policing cadet tests out new virtual reality training technology. This technology will teach students how to deescalate real scenarios.

defined responses into the system to have the cadet verbally respond to cues,” said Hale.

For Hale, the biggest draw is that the technology is so immersive that it makes you feel as if you are truly in the situation. This is fundamental because how officers handle these calls in real life can make the difference between life and death.

The equipment and training can also help cadets understand and manage their own mental health.

“We talk about the current

events constantly,” said Hale.

“These cadets see what’s happening worldwide, yet do not seem tainted on the mission of policing.”

As the first line of contact for people with serious mental illness in crisis, these cadets will be prepared for situations which most of us hope to never be in. This technology prepares them to respond, engage, help, care and defuse.

Online WestPACS job fair offers greater accessibility

By Gillian Mazur Managing editor

On Oct. 21, the Western Pennsylvania Career Services Association (WestPACS) will host their bi-annual career and internship fair. WestPACS is one of the largest job, internship and graduate school fairs throughout Western Pennsylvania and surrounding regions for college students.

Established in 1988, a team of dedicated Career Service professionals connect with students and recently or soon-to-be graduated alumni. The last fair took place in-person on March 11, 2020, right before the COVID-19 pandemic shut down most institutions and businesses, Mercyhurst University included.

With over 50 member schools and universities, WestPACS hosts over 40 graduate schools and 150 employers seeking potential students, employees and interns.

Mercyhurst Career Counselor, Emma Kovacs, spoke about how some aspects of the fair might be different considering it will be held virtually instead of in-person.

“In a way, I think the virtual fair will be more efficient for both students and employers. Students can sign up for times to talk to the employers they are interested in,” Kovacs said. “This helps students because instead of taking a whole day off to drive to Monroeville, they can now more easily work their schedules around the virtual meetings and information sessions.”

In turn, the new virtual format also eases employers’ schedules who can now fit the fair around their daily routine.

Young Hoon Choi, a recent Intelligence Studies graduate of Mercyhurst, attended the in-person fair in March.

“As a senior last March, personally there were more internship positions than full-time jobs, but I believe at least putting myself out there was a beneficial experience,” Choi said.

While the virtual aspect of the fair makes it more time-efficient, many may find it harder to add their personal touch and convey their personality through the screen.

One obstacle that many inter-

ested students will have to hurdle is the loss of communication through body language. Through in-person body language, both parties can gain a more well-rounded understanding of one another.

“While the technology is outstanding for virtual face-to-face communication, I see a lot of value in the idea of in-person communication as well,” Kovacs said.

Another challenge that some students might face with an all virtual fair is the inability to attend due to lack of technology resources. Other technology issues such as a slow, lagging computer or a bad WiFi connection also pose a threat to the virtual fair.

For those worried about technology issues, Mercyhurst’s Career Development Center is willing to go above and beyond to accommodate any student.

“I am also happy to see that career fairs are still happening because I think virtual fairs and even virtual jobs in some areas could become the new norm,” said Kovacs. “I want Mercyhurst students to feel confident in that virtual world.”

In regard to current students, Choi recommended that if possible, it could be very beneficial to attend a virtual session.

“I believe that even practicing talking to the recruiters and seeing what they are looking for can be very valuable,” Choi said. “You might not get an internship, but you can at least observe and understand the needs of companies and recruiters and try to build your resume.”

In addition to the WestPACS fair, the Career Development Center also has a graduate school fair coming up. They will also be hosting workshops to help prepare students for the fairs.

To find out further details on career and graduate school fairs, Kovacs suggests that students check their Mercyhurst emails regularly. In addition, one can reach out to Kovacs by email (ekovacs@mercyhurst.edu) or through Handshake.

For those interested in attending the WestPACS fair, one can register at https://westpacs.org/ register/

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

NEWS

Phase 2 updates

By Samantha Weber Contributing writer

It is no secret that we are in the midst of a global pandemic. One year ago nobody would have thought they would have a favorite mask or value perfect hand sanitizer, yet that is the reality in which we are living.

Being that this is a rapidly evolving situation, it is crucial that everyone in the campus community be informed on the strategies for combatting COVID-19. At Mercyhurst, there is an entire task force devoted to preserving the health and well-being of staff and students.

The current Event Phase Model is represented by a shamrock whose leaves indicate the different phases of actions against COVID-19. Baseline requirements for events during the fall semester include the following: masks must be worn at all times, no transfer of paper goods, capacity limits for campus spaces, sanitation stations and more.

Leadership and Outreach coordinator Steph Przepiora said that the model is not dependent on Erie County nor Pennsylvania’s models, though it will always meet minimum state and local requirements.

Phase 1, otherwise known as

the first leaf, is the phase that was in place last March. It was this phase that sent students and staff packing, because it required that all campus events take place 100% virtually.

As of right now, Mercyhurst is operating under the second leaf which is the hybrid model.

Staff and students are well acquainted with this version of normal, having been on campus for a number of weeks now.

From virtual classes to socially distanced seating, the hybrid model has had a campus-wide impact.

Przepiora applauds RSCOs and other campus organizations for their smooth transitions and adjustments to the phase two leaf. “[The flexibility] has added to the overall vibe on campus,” Przepiora said.

Similarly, executive director of Campus Involvement, Sarah Allen, believes that the Mercyhurst community is adjusting well to the “new normal”.

“The only way we will continue to do well is if the Mercyhurst community continues to wear their masks, practice social distancing and wash their hands,” Allen said.

As of Aug. 31, there have been more updates to this second phase to allow more events with safe physical activity. In addition to the availability of tents

on campus for outdoor meetings, the Campus Involvement Center is also providing clubs and organizations with cleaning supplies when otherwise not readily available. This is especially important for shared sports equipment to ensure the safest meetings possible.

Still forthcoming, the third leaf is referenced on the website as “pre-normal.” This phase allows for socially responsible, safe, face-to-face meetings and low-to-moderate-risk activities to resume.

For more information on how you or your organization are impacted by COVID, check out the Event Phase Model page under the Campus Involvement tab, accessible on the HUB page. The guidelines of each phase are subject to change to best ensure the health and wellness of the university. Therefore it is important to keep up to date on how to best protect yourself and others.

Although times are tough, there is always good to be found.

Getting involved on campus can help deal with the stress of the pandemic and there is something for everyone, so do not be shy.

Remember that now more than ever, your choices impact others. Choose wisely.

PAGE 5

STUDENT GOVERNMENT

This weekend’s campus events

Leadership program applications available

By Grace Smrcka

Contributing writer

The Leadership Development Program, also known as the LDP, is a leadership program designed to recognize and develop potential student leaders at Mercyhurst. The program is non-credit based and multi-level, allowing students to progress through stages.

The LDP engages participants so that they can discover their own leadership styles and learn about their leadership interests, while developing new skills.

The LDP program is dynamic, meaning there is a combination of events for particpants to learn from, including workshops, speakers, breakout sessions and more.

One example of an LDP event would be the Emerging Leaders Workshop. The Workshop consists of a 3-hour exploration of personalities, communication styles and group dynamics, in the context of how these things relate to effective leadership.

Students are nominated to the Emerging Leaders Workshop by faculty, staff members and current LDP students.

The Leadership Development Program Levels 1-3 begin in the fall semester and continue throughout the academic year.

Each level builds upon the previous. This program is mainly focused on leadership discovery and can look great on a resume.

Throughout LDP, participants network with other student leaders. Additionally, the program is tied to Mercyhurst’s core values so that Levels 1-3 each contain a service component. This helps with connecting leadership the Mercy Mission.

Steph Przepiora is the Leadership and Outreach coordinator for Campus Involvement who facilitates the program, and is collecting applications that can be found on the Leadership Development Program Hub page.

The application process is fairly simple. Asking for information such as your class year and major. It will also ask about any prior leadership experience.

“You don’t need to have any leadership experience to join LDP. The application will ask about your goals and what you hope to gain from participating in the Leadership Development Program,” said Przepiora.

The LDP is open for anyone who wishes to apply. “While there are three levels, students can choose to do just one year or two, or all three. All students start in Level 1,” Przepiora said.

For each level, participants are required to attend and reflect on a speaker that they can relate to leadership education, typically a speaker hosted by MSG. They will also participate in interactive workshops.

Each level only meets about 8-10 times each year, so even very busy students will have the time to participate.

Keep in mind that you are not required to complete all three levels. Students may apply to Level 1 without attending an Emerging Leaders Workshop.

However, to move on to the next level, you must complete the level prior.

“The Leadership Development Program has been around in some format for 14 years,” said Przepiora. “While things have changed over that time, the focus remains on developing the leadership potential of students here at the Hurst.”

MERCYHURST CAMPUS

CRIME LOG No crimes to report this week. Great job, Lakers!

FEATURES

PAGE 6

NEW AT HURST

By RayLynn Chraston

Contributing writer

Mercyhurst University’s very own graduate, Mitchell Marsh, has returned to the Hurst this year as the Annual Giving Coordinator within the Department of Advancement. Marsh attended Mercyhurst University from fall 2016 until he graduated in May 2020, during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Marsh earned two degrees in Marketing and Hospitality Management with a minor in Social Media and Website Management. While earning his degrees, Marsh was very involved on campus, as the chair of his Senior Class Gift Committee, a Community Engagement Volunteer, a Student Communication team member and an RA. The fact that Marsh dedicated much of his time toward the Mercyhurst campus and student body did not go unnoticed.

During Marsh’s time as a student at Mercyhurst, he had always known that he would want to come back to campus to work here at some point. However, he did not expect to be back on campus so soon.

“When this position opened up, I was eager to learn more and apply. Having worked in the Department of University Advancement as a work study, and chairing the Senior Class Gift, I knew certain aspects of the position and had an interest in it,” said Marsh.

The Annual Giving Coordinator’s position entails raising funds for the Mercyhurst Annual Fund.

These funds are collected “through outreach toward Mercyhurst community members through creative campaigns and initiatives,” said Marsh.

These funds are very important because they impact a lot of the areas of campus life that matter to students. Such areas range from Academics, Arts & Culture, Athletics, the Library and the new Student Scholarship Program benefiting general student scholarship support, first-generation students and students of diversity.

Mercyhurst University has gained an enthusiastic and well-rounded individual to fulfill this position this year, and hopefully for years to come.

“I’m really excited to have this position and be able to connect with our alumni,” said Marsh.

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

Hurst from home

By Marina Boyle Editor-in-chief

Although most of us are happy to be back at the Hurst, for some students, returning to campus during a pandemic was simply not an option. What is it like to be experiencing the Hurst experience from home?

For students Lauren Rogus, Evan Medvec and Ben VanHook, the experience of doing this semester remotely has been an interesting one.

Rogus is a senior Education major who is at home in the Pittsburgh area. “I chose to stay home this semester due to some health issues. I am currently seeing doctors and I would have to leave campus multiple times through the semester,” Rogus said.

“Academically it has been an adjustment to keep up a good schedule when not in classes, but socially I am trying to FaceTime friends and text people. I feel that social media has actually helped me stay in contact and updated on what my friends are up to,” said Rogus. “I feel the experience has been great so far because I am enjoying my more comfortable clothes as I go to virtual classes and enjoy seating comfortably at home rather than in a classroom.”

Medvec is a sophomore Intelligence Studies major who also stayed home because of medical reasons.

“Being compromised, I thought this was the best course of action for myself and my family. I feel that Mercyhurst has tried their best to take precautions to make everyone feel somewhat safe on campus. Academics and social interaction have been harder during this remote semester. I miss being in the classroom and feeling the rigor that only a classroom can offer,” Medvec said.

Medvec also misses the interaction of a classroom, which includes body language and being able to see all classmates at once.

“I feel as if the organic interaction is a little harder, but I am so thankful for my friends and their ability to keep me involved even if I am off campus,” Medvec said.

Ben VanHook, a senior Political Science and Psychology major, concurs.

“The biggest barrier aside from the technological issues that sometimes occur is not interrupting people over Zoom because you never know when others are going to start talking,” said VanHook.

However, VanHook’s academic experience has been good overall.

“I had a few reasons to stay home. I did not want to get sick and I did not want to get anyone else sick. I also felt I had a moral duty to protect people by staying home and limiting exposure with others,” said VanHook. “It has been fine academically for me. A

few of my classes are using an A/B model, and a few are virtual-only. I have been able to participate and communicate in class as I normally would.”

One of the biggest questions many people would have for these students is how they are staying involved socially, rather than academically. How are they staying connected to MU? “I am actually working as the KDP president remotely for this semester. I am organizing meetings on Teams and Zoom, continuing my work as an Ambassador Historian and helping to organize and lead Carpe Diem 16 by going to virtual meetings,” said Rogus.

Medvec is continuing to interact with RSCOs and follow Mercyhurst social media.

“It’s been difficult not being with people, but I have tried to form study groups, attend club meetings and interact with people as much as I can. I may submit a poem to LUMEN to review.

Finding social things to do can be difficult though,” said VanHook.

All three are hopeful about their return to the Hurst.

“I definitely think Mercyhurst has done better than many schools in their reopening projects. Despite recently having a few cases, they have been able to isolate those individuals successfully,” VanHook said.

Mercyhurst staff needed for Erie Coastal Cleanup

By Ashley Barletta Staff writer

Plastic pollution is a major global issue. Each year Mercyhurst students have the opportunity to give back to the community through service by participating in the Annual Coastal Cleanup.

It is an event held by a coalition of the Erie County Department of Planning & Community Development, Keep Erie County Beautiful, the Pennsylvania Coastal Resources Management Program and Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), who coordinate with The Ocean Conservancy as well as local businesses to pick up the trash that is littering Presque Isle State Park, the Lake Erie shoreline and local streams.

This effort began over 30 years ago with two women named Linda Maraniss and Kathy O’Hara.

Maraniss, who was working in Washington D. C. for Ocean Conservancy, had moved to Texas in 1986.

There, she and O’Hara, who had been a colleague of hers at Ocean Conservancy, contacted

the Texas General Land Office and other local businesses to hold an ocean cleanup.

Maraniss and O’Hara even asked their volunteers to record the trash that they picked up on data cards, which would help them to find ways to eradicate the trash that affects oceans all around the world each year.

There are 20 different locations where people can volunteer for the cleanup in Erie alone. Mercyhurst’s designated site for the event is the East Avenue Boat Launch.

“This particular MU-adopted location is situated in a post-industrial urban location that is not often frequented by students. For this student group to see and assist in the beautification of Lake Erie’s shoreline juxtaposed with the surroundings of former railways, and shuttered mills or plants, while witnessing the commerce from boaters and fishing puts the challenge of maintaining healthy waterways for all to enjoy into a social context with some perspective,” said Colin Hurley, director of Community Engagement.

Mercyhurst students have been

volunteering for the coastal cleanup for around 20 years.

“The common thread woven through each year is the value of environmental stewardship and its relationship to our Mercy, Catholic mission and Mercyhurst’s core values in terms of this type of service,” said Hurley.

Thousands of volunteers clean up waterways around the world during the coastal cleanup, collecting millions of pounds of trash.

Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 protocols, students will not be able to participate in the coastal cleanup this year.

However, staff members at Mercyhurst can volunteer their time. Those who wish to volunteer should contact Colin Hurley at churley@mercyhurst.edu by Sept. 16.

He can also be contacted by phone for any further questions.

Students who are interested in participating in the coastal cleanup in the future may also reach out.

So far, there are 10 people planning to volunteer.

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

NEW AT HURST

FEATURES

Emissary program begins for alumni

By Mike Boylan Sports editor

By Victoria McGinty

Staff writer

The Mercyhurst Department of Communication has welcomed a familiar face to their team with the addition of recent alum William “Billy” Wager. Born and raised in Erie, Wager knows the area and campus more than most.

Wager graduated in 2019 and over the past year has stayed in close contact with the Hurst by serving as a Graduate Assistant for the Honors Program and completing a master’s degree in Organizational Leadership.

“I could not stay away. I knew I always wanted to come back because I absolutely love Mercyhurst,” said Wager.

As a student, Wager was well known for being a revered club hockey player, who traveled all over the United States to play the game he loved so much.

However, when not skating, Wager could be found in the Media Room in Hirt, fulfilling his other passion for film and media production.

“One of my favorite things about Hurst is that wholesome feeling you get when you are on campus. It is so beautiful here, and I feel that there is no place like it anywhere else,” said Wager.

This year, Wager switches his role to a full-time staff member of the Communication department. Along with the day-to-day tasks of educating, Wager aids fellow faculty with programs such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams by making instructional videos and he teaches three Communication classes.

Outside of his job, Wager tries to play hockey whenever he can. His creative outlet is media production and videography.

Wager believes that transitioning into a staff position has been exciting and unique considering he was only a student not so long ago. When asked what his favorite part of being a Mercyhurst staff member is, Wager said, “I know I never wanted to be in a consistent office job, and it is amazing getting to be on the other side of things because I get to witness all of the different things happening at the Hurst. I am teaching some of the same classes I was taking a few years ago, so I can add things I thought were important in class and emphasize things I never learned as a student.”

Transitioning from the role of a student to a staff member could be unique for anyone, but obviously Wager has taken on the role in the world of a pandemic through which we are living.

Wager has embraced his role so well because it is something he is both passionate and knowledgeable about.

Welcome home, Wager!

PAGE 7

Living out the Mercy tradition set out by the Sisters of Mercy is something that most students, professors and staff members at Mercyhurst set out to achieve.

With fewer and fewer Sisters of Mercy currently present on campus compared to when the college was founded, the responsibility for carrying out the core values of the Mercy tradition has seen a shift from Sisters to laypeople. This led to the creation of the Mercy Emissary program five years ago.

The program is set up with a class-like learning environment that passes on the traditions and values that are at the core of what the Sisters of Mercy represent.

“Mercy Emissaries began in response to our clear sense that the future of the Mercy charism at our University will increasingly depend on employees and students, and friends of the university who are not Sisters, but still care about and know the Mercy tradition,” said Greg Baker, Ph.D. Baker serves as vice president for Mission Integration and is instrumental in helping to deliver the Mercy Emissary program each year.

“It is a year-long program that teaches about the founding and history of the Sisters of Mercy; the history of Mercyhurst University; the Catholic Intellectual Tradition and Catholic Social Teaching; and the Current Ministries and the Spirituality of the Sisters of Mercy,” said Baker.

Over the past five years roughly 160 Mercyhurst employees have completed the program.

Last year, the Mercy Emissary

program initiated its first ever student cohort with 25 students completing the program. These students will be recognized at a ceremony on Sept. 25 this year.

Baker believes the fact that students wanted their own version of the program highlights its success.

“The program has helped so many people to more deeply understand and love the Mercy tradition, and has made significant steps in helping employees and students recognize that even though there are not as many Sisters on our campus as there were in earlier years, the Mercy tradition is alive and well here.”

The Mercy Emissary program will be taking another step in further expanding its outreach this year by beginning its first ever alumni course.

“We decided that this was the right year to begin, especially now that we all have suddenly become much more proficient in online meetings through platforms like Zoom. We hope to offer the program to alumni every two years,” Baker said.

The meeting schedule for the alumni sessions has been established, with the first session set to take place on Oct. 4, which is Homecoming weekend.

“We will begin the classes during Homecoming from Home – a virtual Homecoming Weekend featuring many events and activities for alumni to celebrate from the safety of their homes,” said Lindsay Frank, director of Alumni Engagement. “I was a part of the very first group of employees to become Mercy Emissaries so this is something that is

personally very exciting for me to be able to share with our alumni.”

The sessions will continue throughout the academic year, with the schedule having been made with convenience for alumni in mind.

“The first session will be an information session and the first class for the alumni, and then we will continue it throughout the academic year. Alumni will tune in to live Zoom class sessions, and we will offer lunch time and evening sessions for alumni to attend, giving them options to best fit their schedules,” said Frank.

The program has had a good response from alumni so far and looks set to continue to expand its reach.

“Thus far we have almost 50 alumni signed up to begin the process. I am excited for it and cannot wait to see how it goes and how we can continue it into the future,” said Frank.

The Mercy Emissary Program is a perfect way for anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the values that the Sisters of Mercy have developed over decades of social work.

“The program educates, but it also builds community and helps participants to apply the priorities and spirit of the Mercy tradition to their own life, regardless of their personal religious background,” said Baker.

Alumni interested in further looking into the program can contact Lindsay Frank at lfrank@ mercyhurst.edu.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Sr. Mary Paul Carioty celebrated her 90th birthday surrounded by friends and dogs at the Mother house on Sept. 15. Sr. Mary Paul is a Sister of Mercy best known by today’s students as the sister who sits in Baldwin Hall. Congratulations, Sister!

Sarah Klein photo

Sr. Mary Paul with some of the many dogs that were part of her birthday parade.

FEATURES

PAGE 8

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

Virtual events bring the Hurst to alumni

By Garrett Freas

Contributing writer

Mercyhurst University’s Alumni Relations Department has recently been working tirelessly to plan numerous upcoming virtual events. As the dedicated office for those who have already graduated, Alumni Relations usually focuses on bringing people back to the Hurst.

This year however, their focus has had to shift to bringing the Hurst to the people.

In order to do so, the office has planned numerous virtual events. The largest of these is Mercyhurst’s “Homecoming from Home” weekend which will occur from Oct. 2 - 4 and will try to replicate the Homecoming experience of past years as best as possible.

Also planned are multiple “Tips and Advice for Job Hunting During COVID” webinars. Additionally, the Alumni Relations Department also set up the recent “Breaking the Glass Ceiling” panel discussion, which occurred on Sept. 15 via Zoom.

This “Breaking the Glass Ceiling” discussion commemorated 100 years of women’s suffrage and was centered around what it’s like to be a woman in the workplace, touching on challenges, triumphs and advice. The event was moderated by Mercyhurst University Provost Leanne Roberts, Ph.D.

Some of those who shared their experiences were Chanel Cook ‘17 M, Bea Habursky ‘85, Kristen Hudak ‘05, Chris Marsh ‘89, Sue Mack ‘83, Emily Merski ‘04 ‘06 M, Marlene Mosco ‘68, Mary Schaaf ‘68 and Melanie Titzel ‘80.

The breadth of speakers meant that women of all ages and professions were heard.

Another set of important upcoming events are webinars that can help alumni find jobs in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

As many may know from experience, finding a job during the economic recession caused by COVID-19 can be particularly difficult. Thankfully for Mercyhurst alumni, the Alumni Relations Department has various upcoming virtual events to help them in the job search process, that can be found at mercyhurst.edu/alumni/events.

These events cover how to write a résumé, how to prepare for a job fair, and more.

As noted by director of Alumni Engagement, Lindsay Frank, these webinars are open to all Mercyhurst alumni, regardless of when they graduated.

“A benefit that we extend to all Mercyhurst alumni is that they continue to have access and support from the CDC [Career Development Center]. Whether the person graduated in May or 25 years ago, a new job, a career change, whatever it might be, we are happy to offer these services for alumni,” Frank said.

Also on Frank’s list of great opportunities for alumni is “Homecoming from Home” weekend. The biggest upcoming virtual event that the Alumni Relations Department has planned will offer all of the traditional alumni gatherings from Friday through Sunday, with the majority occurring on Oct. 2 and 3.

There will also be a Mercyhurst Trivia Event on Oct. 3, and the traditional Catholic Mass which will be done virtually on Oct. 4 at 11 a.m.

Despite the Alumni Relations Department’s success in planning these virtual events, Frank noted that there have been difficulties due to the University’s current inability to host large in-person gatherings.

“The biggest challenge for Alumni Relations is that so much of our work in engaging with alumni comes through personal contact. Because we cannot gather for events, we lost our two biggest events in 2020: Reunion Weekend in June and now the traditional Homecoming Weekend in October,” Frank said.

That said, the department is glad their events can go on, even if in a different form.

For further information on any upcoming events for Mercyhurst alumni, please visit https://www.mercyhurst. edu/alumni/events, or contact Lindsay Frank at lfrank@ mercyhurst.edu or 814-824-2330.

Prof. discusses 2020 election conventions

By Bella Lee Staff writer

From Aug. 17 - 20, the Democratic National Convention was held in Milwaukee, WI, and was virtually broadcast across the United States. During this convention, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris were officially chosen to be the Democratic nominees for President and Vice President of the United States of America.

The following week, from Aug. 24 - 27, the Republican National Convention was held in Charlotte, NC, and Washington DC. At this convention, Donald Trump and Mike Pence were re-nominated to represent the Republican Party as President and Vice President of the United States.

“This year both political parties’ conventions were primarily virtual. This was the first time in history that this has occurred. It left me wondering if it might become the norm going forward,” Joseph Morris Ph.D., chair of the Political Science department, said.

Morris was recently featured in the news to share his reactions to the two conventions.

“Given how effective the parties were at telling their sto-

ries this year, I suspect there will many more virtual components to the conventions in the years to come. Virtual conventions allow parties’ stories to be told more clearly and to do so a more persuasive manner,” Morris said.

This year’s election is not one to ignore, as this will be the first time many Mercyhurst students will be eligible to vote in the election.

“Conventions are a great place for students to begin learning about the parties and their candidates, particularly if they are new voters,” said Morris. “Not only do conventions help you to understand what each party wants to achieve and how they want to achieve it, but they give you a chance to learn about the candidates as people and as potential leaders. By no means should the conventions be the only thing you rely on when decide which candidate you will support, but they are not a bad place for new voters to start.”

A key point that Morris wants students, and especially first-time voters, to know is that casting a ballot alone won’t automatically make you a good citizen.

“When it comes to voting, you have a responsibility to be very knowledgeable about the candidates and their visions for the United States. Voting is an awesome respon-

sibility and the outcome of an election may mean the difference between war and peace, justice and injustice and prosperity or poverty.”

However, with the nation and the political parties more divided than ever, Morris remains concerned.

“Unlike most years, I’m concerned about people questioning the integrity of our elections. If people question the integrity, they’ll question the outcome. If they question the outcome, we have a disorderly transition of power. This opens the door to the possibility of all sorts of really bad things that I prefer not to think about. It’s important for voters to remember that those who run elections at the state and local level are elected by voters and they were elected because they are honest, trustworthy and committed to the democratic process.”

The deadline to register to vote is right around the corner in most states, so do not forget to register.

You can register using your home address or your Mercyhurst address, but be sure to look up whether you can register in person or online, and how to request an absentee ballot if necessary.

LAKER MOMENT Mercyhurst associate professor of Business, Penny Hanes, captured this jaw-dropping shot of campus lit up by lightning on Sept. 7.

“I jumped about 10 feet when it popped,” Hanes said.

Hanes regularly takes photos of moments of beauty on campus, but this is definitely one of her more spooky and incredible shots!

Contributed photo

All good things must come to an end at some point, including the beautiful sunny weather Erie had been experiencing before this storm.

FEATURES

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

PAGE 9

Carpe Diem with a difference

By Ashley Barletta Staff writer

“Carpe Diem” is a phrase that students at Mercyhurst live by and embrace. Campus Ministry hosts a Carpe Diem retreat once each semester, which helps students connect with one another and explore their lives and Mercyhurst experiences that have shaped them and others. The retreat will take place this fall, but there will be changes made to accommodate for the Center for Disease Control and university COVID-19 guidelines.

“From Oct. 9 - 10 we will take over the Student Union for this retreat and try to create our own bubble ‘away from campus’ while still physically being here,” said Rachel Sallach, senior Human Resources Management major. She is one of the retreat leaders for Carpe Diem 15.

Typically, 45 students and 10 student leaders attend the retreat that occurs at the Villa Maria Retreat Center, about an hour and a half away from campus. Due to the pandemic, it will be downsized to 25 students and five student leaders. However, retreatants will still be able to go through the motions of the retreat like before.

“The core content will remain the same, just in a different setting,” said Michelle Scully, Campus Minister. “I think that it is important that we’re able to still offer this retreat, and offer the opportunity for students to interact with one another in person, so they can form relationships with one another and spend time in a safe and welcoming space.”

Throughout the weekend, participants will have small group conversations, play games, tell stories and listen to the stories of their peers, but specifics of the retreat are kept a surprise.

“I truly believe now more than ever is when people may need to take a step back from their semester and everything else we have on our plates,” said Sallach.

Even though the retreat will take place on campus, that does not take away from what each student will gain from the experience.

“My friends and I who have been on CD refer to it as ‘the weekend you didn’t know you needed.’ It comes with a lot of laughs and surprises,” said Grace Hapanowicz, senior Early Education and Special Education major. Hapanowicz will also be a retreat leader.

Grace Siwinski, a senior Early Childhood and Special Education major, has advice as a retreat leader for all those thinking of attending.

“Some advice I would give students who are making the retreat this fall, or anytime in their Mercyhurst careers is to open your mind and heart up for the weekend. Let go of your worries and just enjoy this separate time away from everything else.”

Specific details about the retreat can’t be given because what goes on during Carpe Diem is meant to be a surprise.

But students need not worry, as the focus is personal understanding and growth. The retreat is designed for people of all faiths, and people of none.

The deadline to register for the Carpe Diem 15 retreat has sadly already passed, but if you are interested in being added to the CD 15 waitlist, or if you would like information about Carpe Diem 16 in the spring, email Michelle Scully at mscully@mercyhurst.edu. There are no specifications for who can register; everyone is welcome to participate.

MU utilizes daily self-health screening

By Maiya Florence Harding

Staff writer

Everyday students and faculty of Mercyhurst University are required to screen themselves for COVID-19. On move in day students were given two reusable MU Masks, two disposable masks and a thermometer to aid them in following the guidelines.

Upon waking up, students are to self-screen. This means taking their temperature every day, as well as asking themselves the following questions: 1.

Are you currently experiencing any COVID-19-related symptoms? These include a shortness of breath, cough, fever, chills, muscle/body aches, headache, sore throat and/or a loss of taste or smell.

2.

Have you tested positive for COVID-19 within the past 14 days?

3.

Have you been in close contact with someone confirmed or probable for COVID-19 positivity within the past 14 days?

4.

In the past 14 days have you traveled to a state designated as a “hotspot” by Pennsylvania or traveled internationally?

The current “hotspot” states include Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas,

Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee and Texas.

If a student or faculty member answers yes to any of those questions, then they have been instructed to immediately contact the campus health center at (814)824-2431 or health@mercyhurst.edu and attend classes virtually, rather than in-person.

If at any time a student forgets the COVID-19 questions, they can easily be found and filled out at https:// go.mercyhurst.edu/register/screen.

Whether or not a student or faculty member is showing symptoms, they are required to wear masks except while eating, inside their personal dorm/office, or if they have a predetermined medical accommodation. Everyone is to be socially distanced six feet apart.

In class, students wipe down desks with the provided wipes before and after taking a seat. In addition, they are assigned one seat for the entire semester to limit contact. If there is a hand sanitizer station, then it should be used every time one passes it, especially after opening and closing doors or eating.

There are additional requirements for students living on campus. No guests are permitted from other halls and if a student has someone over from another room in their hall,

then there can only be two guests (one per roommate) at a time. Guests are to always wear masks.

To have non-Mercyhurst guests on campus, there is an additional form to fill out at https://go.mercyhurst.edu/ register/covid19. It asks the guests for their name, purpose of visit, a COVID-19 questionnaire and an electronic survey.

For students involved in athletics, they have specific guidelines as well. There are no fall sporting events to limit contact with other schools. However, intramurals, club sports and NCAA division athletics are still practicing.

Athletes are always required to wear masks when using the gym. Equipment can be shared if it is disinfected before and after use.

Students are to use their own water bottles and sanitize their hands before/after practice, using the restroom and eating. Athletes should also wash their uniforms before wearing them again. All information about Mercyhurst Athletics in COVID-19 times can be found at https:// www.mercyhurst.edu/covid19/athletics.

Traffic flow signs exist to limit contact with other people.

If everyone follows the guidelines, the chances of continued in-person instruction on campus are higher. Being safe is the best option for everyone; the more often rules are followed, the sooner life can go back to normal.

FROM THE ARCHIVES September 1955: As we know, this year’s New Student Welcome looked a little different from previous Welcome Week events in light of the coronavirus pandemic. However, some 65 years ago the incoming class was not addressed

by President Victor, Laker Leaders or even a hypnotist.

For the incoming classes of the 1950s, freshmen were welcomed through a freshman-faculty reception. The class of 1959 were welcomed with the reception on Sept. 20, 1955. Two days later Mass in honor of the Holy Ghost was held. Rev. Daniel J. Martin addressed the largest student body ever to be enrolled at Mercyhurst, marking the official opening of the new college year.

PAGE 10

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

Contributed photo

The lobby of the Mercyhurst PAC was lit up red to participate in the “Red Alert” campaign. The campaign draws attention to the volume of events that have had to be cancelled or postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic, which has had a devastating impact on the arts.

MU participates in nationwide ‘red alert’ campaign for the arts

By Laren Reesman Staff writer

On Sept. 1, numerous performing and visual arts arenas displayed red lights in solidarity with the struggling arts industry amid the pandemic. According to #WeMakeEvents, 95 percent of live events were cancelled during the pandemic, and 96 percent of live entertainment companies cut staff and wages.

Live events are not expected to fully resume until well into 2021, perhaps not even until the fall. This leaves thousands of not only performers, but lighting designers, technical directors, stage hands and even instrument tuners unemployed for over a year.

While the goal of the government has been about getting employees back to work, it is also about keeping those employees safe.

What are performance-related

employees supposed to do when their job is deemed unsafe?

The Red Alert Campaign of Sept. 1 commenced with the goal of raising awareness to legislatures about this devastating reality as Congress drafts a new federal relief bill.

Local rock clubs nationwide began to hire lobbyists as they faced permanent closure threats.

Live entertainment from concert halls to bars and clubs is in great peril. We risk losing these essential aspects of our American and global culture.

The Red Alert Campaign sought to create a movement both socially and politically to save the live entertainment industry — including its importance, its revenue and its employees.

Mercyhurst’s very own Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center participated in this worldwide movement. Andrew Ferguson, technical director, organized the

“

The arts will be slow to come back to where they were because, at the building levels such as community theatre, private dance schools and small regional companies, there isn’t the extra money set aside to just start where they left off.”

Noelle Partusch

event on Mercyhurst’s campus.

Not only did he decide to participate for a show of solidarity with his fellow behind-the-scenes workers across the globe, he also did so in support of the recently graduated seniors who were looking forward to careers in the arts.

“Seniors were never able to have their final performances on stages

they’ve spent four years on,” Ferguson explained. “On top of that, they were sent out into a world that was completely different than what they had known two months before.”

Looking to the near future, things seem to be bleak.

“Financially, nearly all of these programs rely on ticket sale revenue to support the ongoing performances in the future, and this complicates moving on down the road immensely,” Ferguson said.

C. Noelle Partsuch, Dance Department chair, hopes that though small artistic companies will struggle to get back on their feet, their time will come again.

“The performing arts will always be a part of our society. Performers entertain, yes, but they are also expressing their voice,” said Partusch. “The arts will be slow to come back to where they were because, at the building levels such as community theatre,

private dance schools and small regional companies, there isn’t the extra money set aside to just start where they left off.”

Whether or not the Red Alert Campaign served its intended purpose remains to be seen. If nothing else, Ferguson maintains that Mercyhurst’s show of support aligned with one of the school’s core values. “Being socially merciful is more than just feeling empathetic towards one’s plight; it’s acting upon that empathy so people know someone is standing next to them in support.”

In all, the University’s participation in the Red Alert Campaign was a personal message of support — one for those who yearn for a career in the arts, and one for those who have one and wish to keep it.

Museums operating in a new world

By Frankie Divincenzo

Contributing writer

COVID-19 has dealt us many bad hands, but thankfully our determination and perseverance have not allowed this pandemic to stop us. Even though many places such as movie theaters are operating with limited hours and under strict conditions, or are even out of business entirely, some museums are thriving from their own creativity.

On Aug. 29, 2020, the doors of The Museum Of Modern Art were opened once again. That

said, the doors are not completely open. There are many COVID guidelines that must be followed in order to experience the beauty of the museum.

Firstly, capacity will be limited to just 25 percent. Temperature checks and face masks will be mandatory, and the advance purchase of tickets is required.

“We have never been forced to close for longer than three days— much less five months—and we can’t wait to welcome visitors to a wide range of compelling exhibitions and our permanent collection, which spans over 5,000

years of human creativity,” Max Hollein, director of The Met, said in a press release. “So many people have reached out during the time of closure to express how much they miss being at The Met, and we are eager to welcome all back to the galleries.”

The Metropolitan museum may be the exception, not the rule, due to its size and reputation. At our very own Erie Maritime Museum, operations are looking drastically different.

First of all, until further notice the museum is completely closed.

As a matter of fact, most of its em-

ployees are still at home.

“Staff have been assigned to a ‘work from home’ order since the spring,” said Charles Johnson, museum educator at Erie Maritime Museum.

“Daily wellness checks are going on but, for the most part, the only staff on-site are the shipwrights who live onboard the US Brig Niagara.”

Right now, many other museums are either completely out of commission or have very restricted guidelines on visitation. In some cases, virtual tours are available, giving many opportunities

to those who have never been able to travel to some of the world’s most famous museums.

Some museums are even being rented out for other purposes, like the Natural History Museum of London, which has been the location for live-streamed concerts during COVID. Virtual, restricted, or completely closed, we wish the best to museums all across the globe and look forward to the day when we can once again peruse top-tier works of art.

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

PAGE 11

Smithsonian to add Latino museum

By Christa Knipes

Arts and Entertainment editor

The US House of Representatives moved for a companion bill to be brought to the U.S. Senate to provide approval for this endeavor to be included in the National Mall.

The House bill had 250 co-sponsors, and 51 votes are needed from the Senate to move the companion bill and greenlight

this project.

Previously, a task force at the Smithsonian examined the institutes lack of representation of Latino heritage and went so far as to propose a similar project to legislation back in 2003. Unfortunately, the timing was not right.

Thankfully, this new appeal is being met with far more success,

The United States of America is often known for the diversity of its people. In History classes, we all learned about Ellis Island, the high influx of immigrants into America and the cultural influence they each imparted. However, much of this rich history is neglected in the artwork displayed at educational museums.

The Smithsonian Institution is, at long last, trying to change this systematic ignorance of cultural histories in America.

Following the 2016 installment of The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History, they have proposed the construction of The Smithsonian National Museum of The American Latino.

The exhibition of the Latino role in American history is something yet to be done – at least on such a large scale. This aspect of our historical narrative is usually glossed over, subsequently leading to little general knowledge or representation. Most are not aware of the part the Latino population played in such events as the Civil War, World War II, the Gold Latino Center Day of the Dead poster, 2011 Rush and more.

Photo: latino.si.edu

and hopes are high that the positivity will continue to grow with the onset of Hispanic Heritage Month.

Should the bill be signed by Senate and the President of the United States, a board of trustees will be formed and fundraising for the project can officially begin.

The goal of this new museum will be to provide an accurate narrative of Latinos in American history through exhibited artwork; programs; partnerships with other museums and cultural centers; and research with esteemed publications.

It is estimated that the construction and execution of the museum will cost a massive $700 million dollars, half of which would be provided by Congress, and the other half by donors.

Companies such as Target and Pepsico have already expressed interest in donating, should the Senate bill pass.

In the meantime, Latino artists and exhibits have been featured as part of the Smithsonian museum as a whole, including as part of the Smithsonian Latino Virtual Museum. The Latino Center’s first permanent gallery is set to open in 2022.

UPCOMING EVENTS Oct. 11 @ 2 p.m. on Zoom: Angélique Kidjo Oct. 28 @ 7:30 p.m. on Zoom: Melissa Errico Nov. 12 @ 7:30 p.m. on Zoom: Rascasuelos Dec. 3 @ 7:30 p.m. on Zoom: Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy present “A Celtic Family Christmas”

Photo: samrohn.com

A virtual view of the Natural History Museum’s digital tour.

Museums offer free virtual tours

By Bella Lee

Staff writer

When the United States declared a national emergency for the coronavirus pandemic back in March, many establishments shut down. From restaurants to national parks, public places across the country were closed in order to combat the virus.

Concerts, sporting events and awards shows were postponed as the amount of people getting sick went from the hundreds to the thousands to the millions.

Among these closed public establishments were museums. As the time that people had to remain at home turned from days to weeks to months, people everywhere wondered when we would ever be able to return to these beloved gathering places. Luckily, museums solved the problem for those sick of being homebound: they started offering virtual tours.

Whether they are history museums or art museums, these institutions are using the upset of being stuck at home to their advantage by offering these virtual tours to homebodies.

The J Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles, or the Getty, is using Google Arts and Culture as well as Xplorit to give visitors a glance at the over 6,000 pieces of art they own, including the ability to click on an art piece in order to obtain more information about it.

London’s Natural History Museum offers an interactive online guide for museum goers to visit their vast collections of fossils, plants, insects and more.

South Korea’s National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art allows visitors to explore the main gallery and the three branches.

The Smithsonian’s vast number of museums are offering virtual tours as well as

educational tools for young and older visitors alike.

These are just the major museums around the world that are offering these services, but smaller and more local museums are also utilizing these tools to let visitors explore their exhibits without ever leaving their home.

The Mercyhurst Institute for Arts and Culture, or MIAC, is also taking these uncertain circumstances to its advantage, offering virtual performances for this semester and introducing MIAC Live in the spring.

Singer-songwriter Aoife O’Donovan did a virtual performance on Sept. 10, and will be followed by Beninese-American singer-songwriter Angélique Kidjo on Oct. 11, actress Melissa Errico on Oct. 28 and a performance of “A Celtic Family Christmas” on Dec. 3.

All of these performances will be held

over Zoom, and all you need to do is go to MIAC’s website to register.

Beginning in the spring, MIAC hopes to bring back in-person performances with artists such as The Kingdom Choir, Brian Stokes Mitchell and Matthew Morrison.

The circumstances that we are currently in certainly were unexpected. Many people across the country and the world are working, going to school and living out their entire lives without opening their front door.

It is without a doubt that many of us are tired of always being home and just want things to go back the way they once were.

But, until that day comes, museums are doing whatever they can to keep patrons happy during these uncertain times.

Be sure to reach out to your local museum or a national museum to see if there are any virtual tours available for you to explore.

OPINION

PAGE 12

GOOD We are already a quarter of the way through this semester!

BAD We are starting to see some positive COVID cases.

WEIRD The government admits UFOs exist but no one really cares.

The Merciad STUDENT EDITORS Marina Boyle............................ Editor in Chief Gillian Mazur ....................... Managing Editor Rebecca Dunphy .........................News Editor Marina Boyle.......................... Features Editor Michael Boylan ..........................Sports Editor Christa Knipes .............................. A&E Editor Quinn Gannon ......................... Opinion Editor Sarah Klein ...................................Copy Editor Steph Przepiora ...................................Advisor Contact editors at merciad@mercyhurst.edu

The Merciad is the official student-produced newspaper of Mercyhurst University. It is published throughout the school year. Our office is in Hirt, Room 110.

The Merciad welcomes letters to the editor.

All letters must be signed and names will be included with the letters. Although we will not edit the letters for content, we reserve the right to trim letters to fit.

Letters are due Mondays by noon and may not be more than 300 words. Submit letters via email at merciad@ mercyhurst.edu.

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

Adjusting to campus life during COVID-19

By Bella Lee

Staff writer

At this point in time last year, I was just beginning my college career. I was able to walk around campus freely, I could visit my friends in other residence halls if I wanted, and I got a hold of which classrooms each of my classes were held in.

I felt like I was ready to take on the world.

This year, however, things have changed. A lot.

The vast majority of my time is now limited to either a specific classroom, the dining hall, or my apartment. I now have to wear a mask at all times.

If I want to meet up with friends that don’t live in my building, I have to schedule a time with them because I can’t just waltz into their building like I used to. I’m required to wipe down my desk and seat when I enter and before I leave my class.

I’m in my apartment way more than I want to be because most of my classes are either hybrid or fully online.

In fact, this semester I only have one class that’s fully in-

person. It certainly is a unique experience attending college during the time of COVID. Many students may dislike or even loathe learning mostly or fully online, but I see it as a blessing in disguise. My home county is completing the first half of the school year online and implementing a class schedule similar to what current college students have, which many families aren’t happy about.

However, I welcome this experience with open arms.

While going to college during a global pandemic is something I certainly didn’t expect or even want, I now see this as a new opportunity. Attending college during a pandemic is something that no one would ever think would happen, yet here we are.

Only one of my classes is fully in-person, but protocols still need to be followed. A handful of students in the class are fully remote, we must all wear masks and the desks are spaced 6 feet apart.

The classroom is big enough to hold the entire class that is living on or commuting to campus, which allows us to have this class in-person at all times.

For the classes that are hybrid

or fully online, however, I had to adjust to using Zoom. Last semester, after the campus shut down, my classes met virtually on Microsoft Teams.

While we still use Microsoft Teams to communicate with each other, Zoom is being utilized more for meetings.

One of my online classes is a mini, so soon I won’t have to worry about spending two and a half hours at a time sitting in front of my computer. My other online class, however, doesn’t have a set meeting time, so I have to rely on emails or Blackboard to keep me informed.

I had to get myself a wall calendar so I didn’t mix up the days I was in-person and the days I was online for my hybrid classes.

If you told me last year that this is how I’d be taking classes this year, I would probably laugh in your face. Now, this is our new reality, and it’s something we’re all going to have to get used to for the time being.

Thoughts on TikTok As of now, no ban has been enacted, except in India due to

By Patrick Corso border clashes with China. If Contributing writer Microsoft or another American company successfully acquires TikTok, these issues might subside.

President Donald Trump’s Privacy concerns have arisen attempts to ban TikTok in from the app. In their privacy the United States have caused policy, they collect usage a reasonable debate between information, IP addresses, citizens and politicians. mobile carrier, keystroke TikTok is owned by the patterns, location data and Beijing-based company other data.

In early 2020, ByteDance. The website Steve Huffman, the CEO of launched in China in September Reddit, accused the app of 2016 and became available being “spyware” and declares worldwide in August 2018 after TikTok’s fingerprinting system merging with Musical.ly. “terrifying.”

If TikTok was banned by the Later the same month, the United States government, this United States Federal Trade could potentially jeopardize Commission found TikTok U.S. citizens’ First Amendment guilty of violating the Children’s rights.

Online Privacy Protection Act. The First Amendment of the Because many of the site’s United States Constitution states that Congress is forbidden users were children, they were deemed to have collected from enacting any laws that personal information from abridge freedom of speech or establishment of religious beliefs. children under 13 years of age without obtaining parental I believe that TikTok should consent.

NOT be banned.

Tech experts have not been able to verify that data being collected by TikTok was also being collected by China’s government. Many have noted the amount of data collected was equal to data collected by Western social media giants such as Facebook or Twitter. On review, TikTok collects less data than Facebook.

Thanks to Trump, the relationship between the United States and China has been slowly declining ever since he took office in January 2017. Because TikTok is based in China and owned by the Chinese government, Chinese media censorship rules apply just like other Chinese social media platforms such as Tencent QQ and WeChat. TikTok has banned videos that criticize the Communist Party of China, as well as videos depicting the ongoing Hong Kong protests and Tibetan independence.

Despite all this, I believe the First Amendment rights mean TikTok should not get deleted.

The views expressed in the opinion section of The Merciad do not necessarily reflect the views of Mercyhurst University, the staff of The Merciad or the Catholic Church. Responses on any subject are welcome and can be emailed to merciad@mercyhurst.edu

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

OPINION

PAGE 13

COVID-19 has changed HURST STUDENTS the food industry plan.

By Laren Fast food and delivery trended Reesman upward. People were so bored Staff writer at home they began to envision their lunch menu before breakfast.

The danger is what those “How many celery stalks can meals comprised of—usually fast I take?” food drive-thru or delivery.

This is the question I asked These meals contain almost myself as I entered the Grotto no nutritional or substantive to start the fall 2020 semester. calories. Unhealthy diet and Unfortunately, pandemic food lifestyle are two reasons why means pre-portioned food, America suffered far more and often those portions lack COVID-19 cases and deaths substance. than any other nation.

Throughout the pandemic, America has a huge I saw food services decrease population of diabetic and obese product while increasing prices. individuals with underlying Businesses—especially health problems, and the root of restaurants—everywhere had the issue is our food. to offer less and charge more as The pandemic proved without they struggled to stay afloat. a doubt how horrible the My local coffee shop suddenly American diet is, and fast food cost $5.25 for a mocha rather profited enormously while gyms, than $4.95; a local pizza shop workout studios and pools were made toppings $2 per extra forced to close. instead of $1.

This was a recipe for Costs associated with rent catastrophe.

Poor areas may be and maintaining a sanitized the worst affected.

Most public facility while dealing with cuts schools handed students food to revenue became too much for cards to spend at local grocery many establishments over the and convenience stores. summer.

While candy, chips and They did not get enough pop are included on the card, business to afford a physical precooked meals like rotisserie location, and federal aid chickens are not. packages barely saved them.

We wonder why people Mercyhurst appears to have continue to get sick in America felt this harsh reality as well. when much of Europe’s curve The convenience store in Ryan flattened quickly. upped prices on many products, How much food waste did we and the university ended Bonus generate during this pandemic?

Bucks with the Unlimited food

A new world of disposable dishes, utensils, cleaning and medical supplies became normal.

Some places use recyclable or biodegradable products, but many more cut corners financially just to dissuade sanitary concerns and save face.

Not to mention, we generated tons of surplus crops because buyers could not afford them.

Consumption of grocery store items decreased drastically, especially during the lockdown.

Farmers were forced to throw much of their crop away. Food is a privilege we take for granted, and we wasted an obscene amount this summer.

Every shift I worked at the grocery store had an overwhelming amount of shrink (out-of-date food) that was ultimately thrown away while unemployed Americans stood in food assistance lines across the country.

COVID-19 has had an unprecedented impact on the food industry, specifically local dine-in restaurants. Availability was on downturn except for fast food delivery.

When restaurants finally reopened, they did so with limited capacity and limited menus.

It seems like nothing will change in the near future, but at least restaurants have the goahead to resume operations.

SPEAK UP We asked: What is your favorite mask?

Rylee Schumacher, sophomore Sports Medicine major: “I love my Mercyhurst mask because it is both comfortable and can be worn with just about any outfit.”

Lily Smith, sophomore History major: “My favorite mask is the generic 3-ply medical face mask because they are more lightweight than the cloth ones. I find it easier to breathe in these.”

Allisyn Arotin, sophomore Early Education major: “My favorite mask is my Mercyhurst mask because it is a way I can sport school spirit while keeping people safe.”

Briana Kurutz, sophomore Intelligence Studies major: “My favorite mask to wear is my leopard print mask because it matches my favorite outfit and doesn’t fall down off of my nose as most do.”

Compiled by Victoria McGinty

Biden best candidate for students

By Sam Peterson Staff writer

Which presidential candidate is better for college students? I want to lay out some facts before I leave you with any opinionbased spin on the issue.

Democratic Nominee for president, Joe Biden, claims that when it comes to education, “we’re starting too late, and finishing too soon.”

In accordance with this belief Biden has announced a sweeping plan to transform the way we view education in this country.

First, he will support initiatives to fund education at the federal level through Pre-k at 3 years old, to at least 2 years of vocational school. This is all in an effort to create a reliable pathway to the middle class.

Next, a Biden presidency aims to make college and university free for any family making under $125,000. This is part of Senator Sander’s 2017 College for All

Act, and is estimated to aid 8 out of every 10 families.

Hoping to continue this trend of aiding more low-income families in need, Biden plans to double the maximum value of Pell grants, and increase the amount of citizens that can participate in the program.

This expansion will significantly cover the formerly incarcerated, immigrants and DREAMers.

For anyone paying back student loans, Biden plans to simplify the pay program to just 5% of the payer’s income. This would significantly reduce the amount owed for many people.

Additionally, anyone making under $25,000 will not be required to pay at all. If an individual still cannot pay off their loans, they are 100% forgiven after 20 years.

This is not mentioning his plan to revive and expand the federal loan forgiveness programs for public servants.

These include educators, utility workers, protectors and

many more. For every year of service to the nation, they will have $10,000 of loans forgiven.

Biden also pledges to support unique universities with vital funding. This includes, Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Tribal Colleges and Universities, Hispanic Serving Institutions, Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-serving institutions and Native American Nontribal Institutions.

President Donald Trump does not have any plans for higher education listed on his campaign site, nor has he spoken clearly about this topic in the past.

During his first term, Trump has put a pause on Federal Student Loan interest during the coronavirus pandemic, provided additional funding to make sure colleges and universities reopen in 2020 and signed an executive order to increase funding for Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

However, he has made no other tangible progress in higher

education.

He has proposed in his 2021 budget to simplify loan repayments to a single provider asking for 12.5% of discretionary income, versus Biden’s proposed 5%.

Additionally, he plans to slash loan forgiveness programs, and any other subsidized loans.

Notably, he wanted to ban international students from attending universities during the pandemic, but this decision was later reversed.

Criticism of Biden’s plan will claim it is much too expensive, cause a massive increase in taxes and strengthen the power of a central government, taking away from individual liberty.

There is also no guarantee these proposals will make it past the House and Senate, especially if there is still a Republican controlled Senate led by Mitch McConnell.

Critics of Trump will call out his lack of vision for the future, and ignorance of an issue that many Americans face.

Can college be deemed a reliable pathway to the middle class? How do you plan to tackle ballooning college costs?

Are student loans inhibiting the ability for graduates to participate in society?

These are all questions that Trump does not have an answer to, and if he did, would only claim it is not the government’s role to interfere and grow larger by levying harsher taxes.

Programs such as Biden proposed would aid society in becoming more educated as a whole.

There is such a thing as helping too much, but this is too vital an issue to go ignored by the federal government.

There are so many people that have been disadvantaged and left behind, with no feasible way for them to make their way back into the education system to participate in society and pursue their legitimate interests.

Biden is the right choice for college students.

SPORTS

PAGE 14

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

PSAC partners for student-athlete mental health

By Rebecca Dunphy

News editor

With the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) fall season being suspended, student athletes are being faced with the unique challenge of coping with the stress and mental health issues that can come as result of losing an experience that is so valued. For many, participation in sports is much more than a hobby, but rather a way to escape from the anxiety, tension and pressure of college life.

To help students navigate this difficult time, the PSAC has announced a partnership with “Beautifully Simply You,” a mental health program designed by mental health advocate and former Division II athlete Ivy Watts.

“I started Beautifully Simply You to be completely vulnerable and transparent in the telling of my story of my struggle with anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts and how I have grown to love myself in order to help others tell their own story,” said Watts. “After finally being able to get help through therapy, and finally see that seeking help was not a sign of weakness, I wanted to help others to feel less alone in their struggle. I never want someone to feel like they have to hide behind a smile, like I did for so many years.”

Now that Watts is Mental Health First Aid Certified, she uses her knowledge and firsthand experience to inform students and administrators about mental wellness practices.

Her message of empowerment has reached more than 8,000 students and 3,000 administrators so far.

“It’s been a really beautiful journey to help others to learn to work through their mental health struggles with the tools that I provide to them, and ultimately to help them begin

their journey to self-love,” said Watts. “I write blog posts every week, to continuously stay open about any struggles that I go through, to remind others that although mental health recovery is possible, it is not a linear experience, and I still struggle sometimes. I also speak to students and student-athletes, coaches, parents, and administrators about my own struggle, and empower them to practice mental wellness.”

Knowing that this is a difficult time for student athletes to deal with the loss of their season, Watts created the COVID-19 Mental Health Support Modules to help students navigate their changing identities and circumstances.

“Imagine training for your entire life, getting ready to play in a championship game, or getting ready for your last season as a collegiate athlete, and being told to go home, and that you could not participate in your sport, indefinitely,” said Watts. “For so many athletes, their sport is all they know about themselves. Unfortunately, a lot of athletes, myself including, struggle with a loss of identity, and depression, when their collegiate career is over. Many athletes know this transition is coming at the end of college. But with COVID, that transition came suddenly and with a lot of emotions.”

With resources such as videos, reading content and downloadable activities, she helps students to create a mental health toolkit that can be used during this difficult time. Module topics include self-care techniques, motivation, leadership, the power of positivity and finding your identity outside of athletics.

She encourages students to use this time to develop their identity outside of their sport through participation in other activities that bring them joy and add value to their life. This can be anything from art to caring for animals.

“The idea that if a student-athlete can work on their mental wellness now, to help them build a stronger foundation to reach their goals, can help to ease some of the fears they may be having about their sport,” Watts said.

The modules are not just for those who are currently struggling, but they can also be proactive. Finding out what self-care techniques are most beneficial for students allows them to be better prepared for inevitable challenges in the future.

“I think these modules are a great way for students, no matter where they are on their journey, to begin to love, accept and celebrate themselves, and remember that their story, no matter how big or how small it may seem, is valid, and that who they are in this moment, is more than enough,” said Watts.

In addition to these resources, Watts also strives to break the stigma around mental health. By sharing her own stories she hopes to encourage others to seek help and to understand that they are not alone.

“As we continue to share our stories with others, it becomes a domino effect, and then together, we can make a difference, in showing people that speaking up about what you are going through does not show weakness, but instead it shows so much strength, because you decided you wanted more for yourself, and that you couldn’t do it alone,” said Watts.

Student-athletes interested in the module resources can reach out to their coaches for more info.

KICKBALL LEAGUE

Player of the Week: Brentyn Muir

Plays of the Week: 5. Vinny Lucente of

Scrambled Eggs has game-winning catch 4. John Courtney hits the first triple of the season 3. Cam Anzevino with a tag out double play 2. Sean Hayes slides into home to tie the game 1. Cam Anzevino with a sliding catch.

Freshmen athlete profiles: Men’s lacrosse

By Maiya Florence Harding

Staff writer

Mercyhurst University’s NCAA Division II Men’s Lacrosse team gained 14 athletes to the team this year made up of transfers and freshmen. With a solid group of returning players as well, the team looks to build off the 5-0 season that was cut short this past spring.

We would like to welcome the following athletes to the team this year: Michael Byrnes, Boregard Columbus, Ethan Goss, Gavin Ingalls, Luke Ingianni, Nathan Latshaw, Braden McCard, Stephen Morley, Shea Newell, Alexander NiCastro, Noah Parks, Colin Schmatz and Casey Scott.

Michael Byrnes Byrnes is a business marketing major from Bradenton, Florida. He is a transfer from Mercyhurst North East and decided to come to the main campus because he loved the environment. He is excited to be at the school because it “[gives him] the chance to play for a team full of talented players and a chance to get a degree from a world renowned school.”

Boregard “Bo” Columbus Columbus is a freshman originally from Fergus, Ontario in Canada. He attended high school at Avon Old Farms High School in Connecticut where he was a captain for his lacrosse team. He won a Canadian championship in club lacrosse playing for the Elora Mohawks. Columbus will be majoring in business economics with a minor in finance.

He attended Fairport High School where he played both are open-armed always.” He cannot wait until the spring lacrosse and football. He chose Mercyhurst because it felt to have the chance to compete and strive for a national like the right place for him to attend. championship.

Luke Ingianni Ingianni is from Onondaga, New York and will be majoring in business management with a minor in marketing.

Ingianni attended Marcellus High School where he played lacrosse and basketball. He chose Mercyhurst because he liked the atmosphere on the campus.

Alexander Nicastro Nicastro is from Fairport, New York and is currently an undecided major. The coaching staff he met on his tour of the campus and history of success of the lacrosse team led him to choose Mercyhurst. Nicastro is excited to be a part of the team and is looking forward to “seeing the great success that this team is capable of and if [they] can bring another ring back to Erie.”

Nathan Latshaw Latshaw is from Elmira, New York and is majoring in intelligence studies. Latshaw was a captain for the lacrosse Noah Parks team at Elmira High School for two years. He chose MerOriginally from Carthage, New York, Parks is another cyhurst because he believes it will allow him the best op- transfer from Mercyhurst Northeast. He is a double major portunity for personal growth. in business and competitive intelligence with a minor in criminal justice. He chose to play lacrosse at this campus Braden McCard due to “the competitive culture the team has and the acMcCard is an undecided major from Baldwinsville, New countability that everyone holds for each other.” Despite York. His immediate connection with the coaching staff COVID’s interference in the way they practice, Parks led him to choose Mercyhurst. So far, his experience with holds an open mind that as long as they follow procedures, the lacrosse team has been great and he has most enjoyed everyone will stay safe and practices will once again be getting to know all his teammates. This season he is most more normal. He holds out hope that Mercyhurst Men’s looking forward to “being able to learn a lot from the tal- Lacrosse will finish out the year as national champions. ented players.”

Colin Schmatz Stephen Morley Schmatz is another Intelligence Studies major who chose Morley is from Ogdensburg, New York and is current- this school based on the support Mercyhurst provides for ly an undecided major. He attended Ogdensburg Free their student-athletes, so that he could be successful in Academy where he played lacrosse, football, and hockey. both his academic and athletic futures. He is from West Morley chose to come to Mercyhurst because he liked the Seneca, New York and is most excited about joining an tight-knit feel of the small school. elite lacrosse team.

Ethan Goss Goss is from Buffalo, New York and chose Mercyhurst Shea Newell because he believed it was a well-rounded school that ofNewell is from Victor, New York and is currently a cyfered him what he needed to succeed. Goss has decided to ber security major. He attended Victor High School where major in Intelligence Studies. he played Football and Lacrosse. In addition to loving the campus and his classes, he is finding himself welcomed Gavin Ingalls with wide arms as a member of the Men’s Lacrosse Team.

Ingalls is an undecided major from Fairport, New York. He describes them as a “tight group full of great guys who

Casey Scott Scott is another athlete on the team coming from Baldwinsville, New York. He is currently a biology major. Scott attended Baldwinsville High School where he played both lacrosse and hockey. He believes the outstanding reputation of Mercyhurst will help him contribute to society upon graduation.

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

SPORTS

PAGE 15

Exit.44 kickball season begins

By Maiya Florence Harding Staff writer

Kody Miles, current Mercyhurst graduate student and founder of Exit.44, has created a competitive intramural kickball season to be held on campus.

The league was created in collaboration with Mercyhurst Athletics and is set to take place throughout the fall semester. Games will be played on campus at Saxon Stadium and at the Mercyhurst University Soccer Field.

The sporting event is a fun, safe and active way for students to become involved on campus and create an enjoyable experience.

“We chose kickball because it is a competitive yet safe and socially distant sport,” said Miles.

The lack of PSAC sports this year has left many students searching for a way to bring some form of competition to the campus and Miles saw this as the perfect opportunity for a kickball league.

With the current climate due to COVID-19, many people may also be finding it difficult to maintain an active lifestyle. Joining the league is a great way to get some exercise in while having fun and making new friends along the way.

Mercyhurst students have been given the option to form their own kickball team or register as a free agent.

Team rules state the maximum number of players on a roster as 10, as well as the requirement of at least three members of the opposite gender on a team.

No prior athletic experience is necessary and all are welcome to join in on the fun.

The kickball will also feature several special weekly titles to be awarded for the best moments from the week.

“We’re especially excited for the engaging features we’ll

Contributed photo

Students enjoy the first tournament game of competitive socially-distanced kickball hosted by Exit.44 and Mercyhurst University.

have for the kickball league,” Miles said.

Every week will include features such as the top plays, player stats, rankings and even player interviews. Weekly recaps will be available on the Exit.44 Instagram.

Masks are required to be worn at all times and proper COVID-19 guidelines have been established for the league.

Games are scheduled to take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 to 10 p.m. and on Saturdays from 3 to 5 p.m. More information will continue to come over time.

“I’m most excited. . . to see everyone come together and compete in a safe manner. My passion is to put on these events for students and make great connections and friend-

ships and give them unique experiences to talk about and enjoy,” Miles said.

If you have any questions regarding the league, you can contact Kody Miles (@exit.44) on Instagram.

Competition has begun but registration is still currently open! You can sign up at www.hurstathletics.com/kickball2020.

Freshmen athlete profiles: women’s basketball

By Alexis Lovewell Staff writer

Boyd is excited to get back into playing with a new coaching staff and team. Aside from basketball, she loved the campus and can see herself spending the remainder of The Mercyhurst Women’s basketball team welcomes sev- her college experience here. en incoming freshmen and transfer athletes to the team this year. The new Lakers that we are excited to meet are Grace Centrulla – as follows: Centrulla is a Cincinnati, Ohio native who played 4 years on varsity at Mount Notre Dame High School.

Nicolette Arnold – Her high school team won two state championships while Arnold is an incoming freshman from Derry, New she played there, and when she was a senior her team was Hampshire. Arnold attended a prep school in Massachu- ranked first in the state and third in the country. Individusetts called Lawrence Academy. There she received New ally, Centrulla was also a GGCL Second Team player.

England Prep School Class B Player of the Year for her “I chose Mercyhurst because of the amazing coaching senior year season. She has been playing basketball since staff, team atmosphere and the beautiful campus. I’m takshe was in 1st grade, and then started playing AAU in 3rd ing a lot of interesting classes and so far everything is going grade. well. I’m most excited this year for our upcoming season Arnold is a transfer from the Division 1 school Sacred in January, as our team is working really hard every day Heart University in Fairfield, CT. Arnold felt Mercyhurst and hopefully all our hard work pays off on the court,” was the right choice because of the home feeling she got Centrulla said. from speaking with the coaching staff and the athletes on the team.

Lauren Klare – “Coming from a wonderful high school, I was really Klare is another Cincinnati, Ohio native who attendlooking for that feeling again and knew that it was the peo- ed Ursuline Academy. She was a two-time first Team Allple that made the place so special,” Arnold said.

League selection in high school and in her junior year she Being a transfer during a pandemic was a difficult ex- was able to break the schools three-pointer record. perience since she only was able to connect with people Klare chose Mercyhurst because she felt most at home through phone calls. here, and because she is able to continue to develop her “I ended up loving MU with every new piece of infor- Catholic faith. Klare also believes Mercyhurst is the best mation that I had read. As I looked at a list of all my oth- place for her to be able to succeed athletically and academer choices, I realized where I truly belonged and where I ically, with lots of support from teammates and the coachwould feel at home,” said Arnold. ing staff.

“I was injured last year and was unable to play, so this season means a lot to me. There is a lot of built up exciteBrittini Martin – ment, nervousness, energy and passion within me, and I Martin attended Winston Churchill High School in am just hopeful that I will get the chance to let it all out Potomac, Maryland. Martin provides amazing offensive this year,” said Arnold. skill to the Lakers, considering that she scored over 1,300 points during her high school career.

Jayde Boyd – Martin chose Mercyhurst because of the amazing comBoyd is a Pittsburgh native, playing at Oakland Catho- munity feel around campus. At Mercyhurst she feels as lic High School earning First Team All-Section her soph- though everyone around her wants her to succeed. omore, junior and senior years. She was also a two year captain on her high school team. Boyd is a transfer from Emily Wagner – Fairleigh Dickinson University in New Jersey where she Wagner is from Collier Township, Pennsylvania and is spent last season. a transfer from Loyola University. Wagner was a four-year

varsity letter winner and three-year captain at Chartiers Valley High School. She was also a three-time First Team All-Conference selection, one-time First Team All-State pick and holds the school’s all-time scoring record. She was able to be part of the team while capturing the PIAA and WPIAL crown in 2018 and 2019 with undefeated seasons. She eclipsed the 1,000-point mark during her junior campaign.

Wagner chose Mercyhurst after because of how welcomed she had felt on campus. Wagner is most excited this year about the amazing coaching staff and getting back on the court after being out last season due to illness.

“I am really enjoying my time at Mercyhurst so far. I personally feel as though COVID has not really changed my college experience besides the fact that we must wear masks 24/7. There’s so many things you can do while still accepting the fact that there is a pandemic going on,” Wagner said.

Paige Woodford – Woodford is from Hilliard, Ohio where she attended Bishop Watterson High School. She earned First Team AllLeague honors as well as being named All-Central District Honorable Mention.

As a junior she broke the school record for threes both in a single game and a season. Woodford has been playing basketball since she was four, starting AAU in just second grade, so she is very excited to play at the next level.

“I chose Mercyhurst because of the amazing and supportive coaches, the hard working and friendly team, the beautiful campus and the high level of academics. I knew MU was home from the moment I stepped on campus and have loved every part of it so far. I have also grown up going to Catholic schools so I was happy I would be able to continue my faith in the Catholic environment Mercyhurst offers,” said Woodford.

PAGE 16

LAKER LIVING

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Personal matters claim a good deal of the Lamb’s time in the early part of the week. But by midweek, pragmatic considerations (work, school, job-seeking, etc.) begin to take priority.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) The seasonal shift ignites the Bovine’s creative aspects. You could do well if you try to combine your penchant for innovation with the more pragmatic demands of the week.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Ideas come easily to you this week. And never mind that some might suggest they’re unworkable and/or impractical. It’s your vision that counts. Work them out and see what turns up.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Personal matters continue to dominate the early part of the week. By midweek, more workaday issues once again begin to emerge. Balance your time to give both the attention they need.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) A new contact could provide an expanded opportunity. But be sure you get all the facts before you consider signing on. Ask questions, and be wary if you don’t get the right answers.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) An unexpected development could cause some supposedly resolved disagreements to reignite.

Deal with the situation before it leads to some really serious problems.

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) A clash of work-linked viewpoints needs to be discussed openly, honestly and calmly by all concerned before it can impede progress on an ongoing project.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) The Scorpion’s pragmatic side helps you accept the possibility that a change of plans might be the wise thing to do. Be sure to weigh all your considerations carefully.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Some people might not take no for an answer. Never mind.

Keep your resolve if you’re sure you don’t want to be involved in a potentially sticky situation.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) All other facts and figures aside, it’s what you learn about potential colleagues that can be most helpful in assessing any decisions you’re likely to make regarding a new project.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) You might want to reconsider some of your outside commitments if they continue to demand more time than you can spare. Be honest with yourself when making a decision.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Pay attention to that inner voice of Piscean wisdom counseling you to remove those rose-colored glasses and take an honest look at any decisions you might face this week.

BORN THIS WEEK: You have a penchant for persuasion that would make you a fine candidate for a political career. © 2020 King Features Syndicate, Inc.

HURST TOON Student-drawn cartoon by the Martian