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The Merciad

Est. 1929 Vol. 89 No. 1

Mercyhurst university

Wednesday, septeMber 9, 2015

Victor: Big changes coming

By Catherine Rainey News Editor

Through use of researchbased problem solving, effective use of data, best practice and some collective sacrifice, President Michael T. Victor has promised to bring Mercyhurst University to a new pinnacle of prominence.

“We are on the cusp of a comeback. I can promise you that,” Victor said to a full audience of faculty and staff on Tuesday, Aug. 25.

Victor gave his inaugural State-of-University Address in the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center. He highlighted many of the university’s recent accomplishments and outlined short and long-term proposals to improve areas such as admissions, finance and overall efficiency within the institution.

Introduced by David Dausey, Ph.D, chief of staff and vice president of academic affairs, Victor welcomed attendees with warmth and optimism.

“I can say, unequivocally, faculty and staff here are the best I’ve ever worked with,” Photo by Margaret Urso Victor said.

He discussed problems that President Michael T. Victor addresses faculty and staff at his inaugural address in the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center. the university faces and how he plans to address them. of Distinction on Aug. 24. has a balanced budget with tation and raises the profile of istration, which includes Mercyhurst’s student enroll- According to Victor, this will an expected surplus for the the university.

Nguyen, Jospeh Howard, Jeament strategies are a decade help with recruitment efforts. coming year.

Victor also noted that some nette C. Britt, Sister Lisa Mary behind their competition, “The next closest ColAdditionally, fundraising for cosmetic changes were made McCartney, PhD., Monsignor according to Victor. He pro- lege of Distinction would the Office of Advancement to the school. Fifty dead trees David Rubino, Ph.D., and posed to increase marketing be Allegheny College,” said was at an all-time high, bring- and bushes were cut down Laura Zirkle, PhD. and recruiting efforts and hire Victor in an interview after the ing in $6.3 million last year. and replaced with new ones.

To continue efficiency, he two new full-time admissions address.“It puts us into those After recognizing recent New flowers were also planted plans to consolidate the curcounselors. types of categories: a more accomplishments of various around campus. rent colleges into four new In order to make these well-regarded school not only athletic teams, Victor proOne of the first changes colleges with new full-time changes work within the because of our programs, but posed upgrading athletic facil- Victor made in his new role and part-time deans. university’s budget, he told also because of student expe- ities and equipment. He also as president was replacing the “Right now we’re in the employees that some depart- rience, the Mercy mission.” mentioned looking to revenue Carillon bells, which now ring process of having faculty ments must make do with less During the address Victor enhancements such as build- daily throughout campus on forums where we’re working money in their own budgets. announced that thanks to ing bigger rosters. the hour. out all the details and deterThe good news, Mercyhurst Hoa Nguyen, executive vice “Expense levels for athletVictor assembled a new cab- mining the size and scope of was named a College of Dis- president for finance and ics are necessary,” Victor said, inet to help achieve his goals each of the schools, but it is in tinction and Catholic College dministration, the university noting that it helps build repu- of a more efficient admin- the process,” Victor said.

Based on student feedback he received, Victor expressed an interest in improving the core curriculum.

“We intend to make the core a more efficient and more beneficial for the outcome students expect while still maintaining a liberal arts core,” said Victor. “In other words, how is that going to impact the students with the ability to think creatively and think critically in the future.”

When asked about building any new traditions in a follow-up interview to his address, Victor revealed his surprise for students: Hurst Day. “Hurst Day will be a day, a warm fall day, early in the fall. It will be a day that school will be called off. It will be announced by pipers and drummers playing in the quad,” Victor said.

According to Victor, the day that Hurst Day takes place is a secret, but he will send out an email blast the morning of to let everyone know.

“It will be a day filled with scavenger hunts by teams, very difficult scavenger hunts with huge prizes. There will be inflatable games, rock climbing walls, mechanical bulls, Velcro walls, dunk tanks, ice cream trucks, you name it, it will be here.”

According to Victor, many of the changes he has announced are still in the process of being discussed and finalized, but the administration and faculty are working together to build consensus.

“Everything we’re doing that you heard in my speech is all to move us forward quickly to be in a better position for students and faculty and everyone involved at Mercyhurst to better fulfill our Mercyhurst mission,” Victor said. @TheMerciad

Laker introduces new dining options

By Lauren Murphy Contributing writer

The Laker Inn has made several changes this school year, including removing the Bento Bowl and Smoothie Bar and adding the milkshake station, the Egg Bar, the Daily Dish, Salads by Design and new beverage options.

Out of all of the services offered at the Laker in previous years, the Bento Bowl and Smoothie Bar were not as popular among students. As a

Merciad Index News Features A&E Opinion Sports Laker Living

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result, executives at the Laker and members of Mercyhurst Student Government teamed up to brainstorm a more attractive Laker Inn. “These were student driven changes and happened by collaborating with Mercyhurst Student Government,” said Dean Schoenfeldt, senior general manager of Parkhurst Dining.

According to Park Bogan, vice president of MSG, the close relationship MSG has with Schoenfedt and Parkhurst is what allowed them to give

students what they want.

“Students wanted healthier food options in the Laker, and we were happy we had the ability to work with Parkhurst to make that happen, adding more variety to the menu,” Bogan said.

Within the first two days the Laker was open, all of the milkshakes were sold, and were out of stock for a few days until more could be ordered and delivered according to Schoenfeldt.

“I love them, they will be where I am spending all of

my money,” said sophomore Hospitality Management major Aaron Ellis.

The station offers thirteen different Hershey flavors.

The Bento Bowl was converted into the Egg Bar and the Daily Dish. The Egg Bar serves breakfast until 1:30 p.m. and The Grill opens at 10:30 a.m.

(Continued on page 2) Photo by Sarah Paschal

Ethan Dunacin preapres an order at Salads by Design, one of the new stations at the Laker Inn.

Online Poll Results

What are your plans for the summer?

53% What summer? I will be working forty hours a week 24% I am going to sit on my couch and binge watch Netflix 24% I am spending my summer traveling

Be sure to vote in this week’s online poll: How do you feel about the bells?

merciad.mercyhurst.edu

September 9, 2015

The Merciad

Page 2

News

Mercyhurst reveals new mascot Luke the Laker takes the place of Louie

By Catherine Rainey News Editor

Mercyhurst unveiled Luke the Laker, the school’s new mascot, at the football game against Bentley University on Saturday.

Due to the flooding in the Carolyn Herrmann Student Union last semester, Louie the Laker, the university’s former mascot, was destroyed and needed to be replaced. The idea for Luke and his story, headed by Preston Reilly, activities and spirit coordinator, and the Campus Involvement Center staff, was a collaborative effort by many departments around campus.

“We talked to the bookstore, we talked to athletics, we talked to Earleen Glaser, she’s in the archives down in the library,” said Reilly. “She’s absolutely wonderful and has

Photo by Sarah Paschal

Mercyhurst mascot Luke the Laker spreads school spirit during the football game on Saturday.

any kind of piece of history you could ever want to know about Mercyhurst.”

With the help of Chris Norris, web/social media/ video coordinator and Sean Cuneo, marketing director,

Mercyhurst released a video prior to the game, introducing Luke and his backstory.

According to the video, Luke, nephew of deceased Uncle Louie, grew up on Lower Baggot Street in

Erie Gives raises almost $3 million for nonprofits

By Erin McGarrity Contributing writer

Mercyhurst benefited from the fifth annual Erie Gives Day on Tuesday, Aug. 11th, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Erie Gives Day provides members of the community the opportunity to donate money to various nonprofit organizations throughout Erie. This event, hosted by the Erie Community Foundation and the Nonprofit Partnership, gives people the chance to directly and easily contribute to meaningful causes through means other than physical involvement.

In the 12-hour time frame this year, local nonprofits earned $2,821,929.

Mercyhurst was responsible for raising $6,766 of that total.

Several Erie companies, including Erie Insurance, Presque Isle Downs & Casino, GE Transportation, Eriez Magnetics, The Erie Community Foundation, matched each donation received.

This is the third year that

Mercyhurst has participated in Erie Gives Day. The bulk of the donations during this event came from personal donors from Mercyhurst, which was a pleasant surprise, according to Monsignor David Rubino, vice president of external affairs.

“In these economically challenging times, everyone is working hard just to stay afloat. We were surprised to see so many personal donors contributing despite their own financial troubles,” Rubino said.

Last school year, Mercyhurst launched its own variation of Erie Gives Day called Mercyhurst Gives.

Over the course of that campaign, which lasted one day, the school community raised nearly $60,000, simply as a result of emails and phone calls to alumni and friends.

“The results of Mercyhurst Gives show in a big way just how caring our community really is,” said Rubino. “With Erie Gives, though, there’s that added layer of concern for not wanting to take money

from people who might really need it. It becomes a question of fairness, and we don’t want to be selfish here. It’s all about the nonprofits.”

Erin Fessler, vice president of communications at the Erie Community Foundation, holds Erie Gives Day particularly close to her heart. She has been working on the event since it launched in 2011.

“Erie Gives is a real awareness-builder for the foundation and a great introduction to philanthropy to many people.

With $25, anyone can become a philanthropist for the day.

You don’t need thousands of dollars,” Fessler said.

Rubino largely credits both current and former students and their families with the immense success of both Erie Gives Day and Mercyhurst Gives.

“We were wondering how people would respond, and, not surprisingly, this community continues to respond exquisitely to Erie Gives,” Rubino said. @TheMerciad

‘Hurst recognized nationally as a College of Distinction

By Melanie Todd Staff writer

Mercyhurst has been recognized as a College of Distinction and a Catholic College of Distinction by Colleges of Distinction, an organization that recognizes schools of excellence.

The organization looks at four main areas: engaged students, great teaching, vibrant community and successful outcomes.

“We think we are exactly the type of school the Colleges of Distinction are looking to promote,” said Vice President for Enrollment Joseph Howard.

“We went through a twoand-a-half-hour interview involving the entire cabinet,” Howard said.

In order to be considered for Colleges of Distinction, a school must first be nominated by high school guidance counselors and college administration. After nomi-

nation, the organization looks at public statistics on each school such as retention rates and graduation rates to decide if they want to bring the school to the interview step of the process.

Mercyhurst offers a number of innovative learning experiences, Howard said.

“They liked that Education students are in classes with children their very first semester, Intel students do work for government contractors and Archeology students have the ability to participate in digs,” Howard said.

“Many of our students have contact with senior faculty their very first year here,” said Howard.

According to Howard, another area interviewers focused on was how students are getting beyond the gates.

“One in five undergraduates have some study abroad experience on top of students getting internships and service projects,” Howard said.

Diversity was another contributing factor.

“Eleven percent of our student body is international and 14 percent of our students come from racial/ethnic groups that are typically under represented at the university level,” Howard said.

According to Howard, Mercyhurst’s placement rate of graduates getting jobs or into graduate school is 95 percent within six months.

Additionally, Colleges of Distinction looked at Mercyhurst as a Catholic School of Distinction.

“Mercyhurst is routinely recognized by the President [of the United States]’s higher education community service honor roll,” said Howard.

Additionally, Colleges of Distinction looked at the Mass of the Holy Spirit, Mercy week and how the school values sustainability, one of the Sisters of Mercy teachings. @TheMerciad

Dublin, Ireland. He was a fisherman on the Irish Sea until the time came for him to sail to Erie to take Louie’s place as Mercyhurst’s mascot.

Filming for the video took place on the Mercyhurst

campus as well as in the Erie community.

“We actually went down on the Brig Niagara, those boat ships, you know all those shots that we had there, him looking up at the American flag. That was a big part of Erie history that we wanted to kind of plug into there as well,” Reilly said.

A group of students have been chosen to wear the costume. However, their names will be kept a secret.

Reilly said Luke will be even more active than Louie was, and in addition to attending sporting events, he will roam the campus.

“That’s one of our goals is to get the mascot more out there,” said Reilly. “I wouldn’t be surprised if you’re walking through Garvey Park on a Wednesday morning and all of a sudden you see him jump out and give you something, some candy or something like that.”

Luke has a tattoo of an anchor and the number 94 in roman numerals on his arm.

This is a tribute to his predecessor, the original Mercyhurst

mascot the Old Man in the Sea, born in 1994. The Old Man in the Sea was followed

by Louie and now Luke.

Students at the football game this Saturday witnessed Luke’s first appearance.

Junior Criminal Justice major Kelly Peters had not seen the video at the time of the game, but still had a comment to make about Luke.

“He looks a little intimidating which is a good thing,” Peters said.

“I think he looks cool. He looks cooler [than Louie] and he has a beard. The video was cool,” said senior Music major Michael Hibbler.

Senior Graphic Design major Megan Steele said, “I feel grateful that Luke was able to make the trip over to represent the school. From what I’ve seen today he would make his uncle proud.”

@TheMerciad

The Laker makes changes, adds more stations (continued from page 1)

The Daily Dish is a themed food eatery that changes weekly, including the Asian cuisine that used to be offered at the Bento Bowl, according to Schoenfeldt.

The Salad Bar is structured in a way that allows a student to build his or her own salad, and is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. There are three different sizes: small, medium and large, that all come at different prices. The prices are mapped around the $6.50 price point, which is the price of the medium.

Students can also choose from six different toppings and are able to suggest the types of toppings they would like.

“If someone wants pears for their salad, I can have that done by the next day,” said Schoenfeldt.

Included in the drink additions is an array of Starbucks beverages and Lipton teas.

Other changes are that the Cantina brought back ground beef, and has brought the price of all Cantina meals back down to $6.50 instead of $7.

The On-The-Go sta-

tion added some additional choices, such as new fruit cups, and the menu at the Deli was changed to provide a more effective way of ordering sandwiches.

“The Deli has fresh baked bread, is build your own and is set up close to the way Subway is,” said Schoenfeldt.

Leah Weingartner, sophomore Graphic Design major, is happy with the new layout of the Laker.

“The changes function better than last year,” Weingartner said. @TheMerciad

Physician Assistant master’s program off to great start

By Adrian Monty Contributing writer

The Physician Assistant Master’s Program, which brings much potential to the medical industry, began at Mercyhurst this past summer.

The 24-month “mini medical school” program, which began with 20 students this summer, covers all of the hot topics of medical school in a fraction of time that it takes to become a specialized doctor.

The students do 12 months in the classroom and 12 months in 5 weeks rotations which are like mini internships to see what areas they prefer.

“Being a physician assistant is not about how many patients you can see, it’s about how many you can help,” PA student Edward DeWald, Mercyhurst graduate said.

Unlike Ph.D doctors who specialize in only one area of medicine, physician assistants have dipped their toes into every field of medicine and are aiming towards the transformation of American healthcare.

In the program, students take 18 credits per semester, as opposed to the normal graduate school amount of nine credit hours. Program

director Catherine Gillespie, DHSc, PA-C, referred to the program as an “in depth, rigorous program.”

Similar to other programs at Mercyhurst, the PA program is very student focused. “[We] use student focus groups to see how things are going. So after the semester we had a focus group to see what they liked and didn’t like and saw

“

Being a physician assistant is not about how many patients you can see, it’s about how many you can help -Edward DeWald

”

the need to change,” said Gillespie.”

Because of the location of this program, students are able to use the resources of the area including LECOM, the VA hospital and Mercyhurst North East.

The North East campus has cadavers for students to learn examinations, a simulated mannequin lab with responsive life-like features, as well as their nursing program.

In January, some of the program’s students are taking a medical mission trip to Honduras.

The students will be exposed to diseases not seen in the the states such as typhoid fever and tuberculosis which are more common in that area of the world.

Having the experience of the medical mission trip will give students the opportunity to use what they have learned in the lab and classroom outside of their comfort zones.

The MPASS, Mercyhurst Physician Assistant Student Society, is currently fundraising for the Honduras trip, as well as for other purposes including a food drive.

“The annual Pennsylvania Society of Physician Assistants event will be hosted in Erie this year. We are raising money towards that event as well,” said DeWald, the secretary for the group.

Since the PA program is new to Mercyhurst, the first round of students will be setting the standards for the passing rate for the national exam.

“Our scores will be publically recognized as the first Mercyhurst passing rate for this program,” said DeWald.

@TheMerciad

Check out the Merciad at merciad.mercyhurst.edu

September 9, 2015

The Merciad

Page 3

Features

Atav to revitalize Marketing Department

By Brittany Smyth Contributing writer

Hailing from Turkey, Gizem Atav is one of Mercyhurst’s newest faculty members.

Atav is Mercyhurst’s new marketing major program assistant and instructor of business. She has taught marketing for three academic years, which also includes teaching regular and online classes at Binghamton University in Binghamton, N.Y. and now at Mercyhurst University.

She currently teaches Market Research and Consumer Behavior in the Marketing department.

Born and raised in Turkey, Atav learned at an early age to be hard working and trusting of others. After completing two years of higher education at Bogazici University in Turkey, Atav moved to the states to finish her dual degree program at Binghamton University. As the newest faculty, Atav is excited to see where her future .

“My career is definitely determined. Researching and teaching, that’s what I do,” Atav said.

Atav is currently a Ph.D. candidate at Binghamton University and is expected to finish her dissertation in the next few months.

“I got an undergrad degree from both of them [Turkey and Binghamton University].

So after that, my original plan was to go home,” said Atav.

“And then I stayed for my MBA and Ph. D, and now I’m here. So it’s been eight years.”

She is in the final stages of receiving her Ph. D from Binghamton University. Her focus and main area of research is in consumer psychology. Atav believes in motivating people to save more money.

“I try to work on projects that are mutually beneficial, both for the consumer, the economy and the company.

When I tell people that I try to motivate others to save money, they say, ‘Well isn’t that the opposite of marketing?’ Well in fact it’s not,” said Atav.“ We need people to save more money so that we have a healthy economy. We need a sustainable one, so that companies can have a healthy environment.”

She has been researching

this area of study for many years and has published much of her work. Atav recently published conference papers, peer reviewed journal articles and participated in multiple campus talks.

Atav is a co-author with Dipankar Rai, Ph.D, a former member of Mercyhurst’s Marketing department, and got accepted to present their project at an upcoming conference.

Atav believes that most of her work mentality derived from her father.

“I’m actually really lucky enough, when I think about this question, I think of many people. My father is a major influence on me,” said Atav.

“He’s the type of person who says to work hard and you can reach anything. He instilled in me this confidence that I’m capable of doing anything.”

Aside from her father, her best friend from Binghamton also helped her to pursue a career. She made a big impact on helping Atav assimilate to America.

“Whenever I went to her saying, ‘this is too tough, I can’t do it anymore,’ she would say, ‘Just do it, there’s

no way out, you just have to go and do it,’”Atav said.

Being at her last steps to receiving her Ph.D., she credits much of her passion for marketing to her old internship manager at Starbucks.

Atav originally went to school for Political Science, but then wanted to try the corporate world. Her manager at Starbucks, where she interned in the Marketing department, was a “fierce woman” and influenced Atav to change her major to marketing.

“She pushed me really hard and made it tough, but it was an amazingly rewarding experience for me,” Atav said.

She noted that she had sent an email to her internship manager years later that read: “You were the reason why I decided to do an MBA, and look where it took me. Now I’m getting my Ph.D.” Atav is truly grateful of all of the opportunities that have come her way.

“The reason why I really wanted to come to Mercyhurst was because when I came for my first interview, and when I had my campus visit, I really genuinely loved everyone I met,” Atav said.

Nhi Tran photo

Atav is currently working on her Ph.D. from Binghamton University, all while teaching marketing courses at Mercyhurst.

Atav is expected to complete her dissertation from Binghamton University within the next few months. @TheMerciad

Persistent students win tuition to MU North East

By Lauren Murphy Contributing writer

Contributed photo

For her internship this summer, senior Rebecca Schratz dressed in period clothing from the 1700’s.

History student recreates the 18th century lifestyle

By Casey Bleuel Staff writer

Senior Public History and Archaeology minor, Rebecca Schratz volunteered at the historic town of Tally Caveyall this summer, dressing up as a historically accurate, impoverished woman each day.

Schratz gave tours, taught summer camps and educated the public about the history of Allison Park during the late 1700s. To Schratz, the effort that went into creating a historically accurate persona of a woman that “was putting off marriage and had to work for money” was immense .

The village is located on the Depreciation Lands Museum in Allison Park, Pa. The museum itself focuses on interpreting the Settlers Act of 1792 when land in Pennsylvania was sold to settlers, ignoring the natives and their lands.

The clothing Schratz had to wear included a corset, two heavy skirts, stockings, petticoats, and a bonnet, among others. She spoke properly and learned to shear and spin wool just as a woman from the 1700s would have done.

“It teaches you a different appreciation for resourcefulness,” Schratz said.

Other than adopting a new persona, Schratz designed museum displays, planned events, worked in the archives,

and conducted historical research, all while educating the public.

Her museum display consisted of a timeline of the Native Americans who lived in the area during the time.

She made her own rope out of plant fibers for her display, as well as incorporated artifacts such as a musket and handmade ax.

“Being in that persona, I had to learn certain things that would be historically accurate,” Schratz said.

At Mercyhurst, Schratz works in the Archives at Hammermill Library, preserving historical documents that

pertain to the Ambassadors club. During her internship, she was able to put her prior knowledge of preservation to the test. Schratz was given the task of preserving the original land grant of Tally Cavey, written on animal skin.

“It was super nerve-wracking,” Schratz said, at the thought of holding the more than 200-year-old document in her hands.

According to Schratz, this experience was crucial, as she wants to go into museum education when she graduates.

Casey Bleuel photo

As part of her work, Schratz preserved a more than 200-yearold land grant.

Three students won the grand prize of free tuition and books for an associate’s degree at the Mercyhurst North East campus, after spending their summer living on a bus.

Radio station Happi 92.7-FM partnered with Mercyhurst North East to host the “Live in a Bus, and Tuition’s on Us!”contest. The contest consisted of participants living inside a 48-seat school bus for the entire summer in order to win roughly $35,000, which would pay for an associate’s degree in tuition money.

The contestants were chosen from a two part entry process: first an entry video, and then an interview. Nearly one hundred people applied, but only five

were chosen. Out of the five contestants only one was supposed to win, but three made it to the end and received the prize. The winners were Will Crotty, Isued Farret and Elizabeth Simmons.

Crotty said he was going to use the money to complete a degree in Education and hopes to become a teacher in Erie.

Farret is using the money to become a Physical Therapist Assistant, while Simmons is keeping her options open.

“Winning meant a better future,” Simmons said.

Contestants were allowed a forty-five minute break to shower every morning and were allotted three fifteen minutes and two half-hour breaks for food.

The Happi 92.7 website provided a list of the places the bus was going to stop for

anyone who was following the contest and wanted to see how the contestants were doing.

Aside from the breaks, the rest of the contestant’s time was spent on the bus.

H a l f way t h r o u g h t h e summer, Happi 92.7 executives realized that from the attitudes of the final three contestants, they were not going to be giving up anytime soon.

“We could have honestly gone another 100 days,” Farret said.

As a result, Happi 92.7 and Mercyhurst University decided to give all three students the prize money.

“I’m excited that we all won, you know, we lost the summer but I think we gained a lot more,” Crotty said.

New physics major offers momentum for sciences

By Melanie Todd Staff writer

This year marks the first full academic year for the new physics major introduced last spring.

Over the last few months the physics program has expanded and is expected to continue to provide innovative opportunities for students. The major grew from an existing minor to a major at the request of a few students.

“We did not meet much resistance in creating this new major,” said Dyan Jones, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Physics. “A physics major is something all good science programs have. A lot of schools in our area are closing their [physics] programs which will help Mercyhurst to grow its major and enrollment,” Eight students are enrolled in the physics major. So far, Jones is not concerned with the program’s sustainability.

“That’s a lot for a school our size. We also promote double majors, science and another science or science and math,” said Jones. ”It will never be very big because

physics is never really a big major. Mercyhurst values smaller class sizes and interactions with our students” Jones said she is proud very proud that the major has attracted a lot of women students, which is atypical for a Physics department.

“Mercyhurst values diversity and believes all the students are capable of succeeding in any field they choose,” Jones said.

Senior Autumn Walter is among the new physics majors and one of the students who lobbied for its creation.

“There were five or six of us that talked to Dr. Jones about making it [physics] a major. She took it from there and approached the administration,” Walter said.

Starting as a Forensic Science major, Walter moved to Biomedical Science with a Physics minor to a degree in Physics. Even though she changed her major last spring, she will graduate on time this upcoming spring.

“We were really prepared going into the physics major,” said Walter, “A lot of the classes overlap too. Having a degree in physics will really

set us apart when applying for jobs.”

The Physics department has grown from last spring. There are now two national organizations the major is affiliated with: the Society of Physics students and Sigma Pi Sigma Honor Society.

Currently, there are three physics faculty members, two of them share time between physics and other science departments.

“Professor Dave Wick is a new hire and working with the physics department as well,” Jones said.

“The optics lab is running for the first time, which is a studio course where students build their own microscope,” Jones said.

This class is new this year and is open to both Physics major students and as a core requirement. In the spring, Quantum Physics will be offered for the first time.

Additionally, during the J-term, students have the opportunity to go to Switzerland with their class to see the European Council for Nuclear Research (CERN) laboratory.

Page 4

The Merciad

Features

September 9, 2015

Test Blind initiative reaches Mercyhurst

By Emani Burton Staff writer

In the 2015-2016 academic year, 55 accepted freshmen chose to apply “test optional.”

Last year, Mercyhurst’s faculty staff and admissions chose to provide incoming freshmen and transfer students the new option of submitting applications without college admission test scores.

This year’s students did not need to provide their scores for either the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or the American College Test (ACT).

Approximately eight percent of the 700 incoming freshman chose to submit a test blind application.

Mercyhurst has joined a growing class of colleges and universities that have chosen to judge applicants on a holistic approach. Reports from the Washington Post indicate that more than 850 colleges in the U.S. are now test blind.

This growing trend includes nationally ranked schools such as George Washington University.

“We are glad to be ahead of the trend,” said director of

Undergraduate Admissions Christian Beyer. “We felt that this year was the right time.”

The option to go test blind

“

This is not about lowering our standards Christian Beyer

”

was influenced by the growing diversity of college applicants and their challenging needs.

The 55 students admitted to Mercyhurst without test scores are part of the University’s mission to accept students from all walks of

life. According to Beyer, test blind application help benefit underprivileged applicants, minority students and high school graduates who do not have access to standardized test prep materials.

This year’s test blind accepted freshmen had a slightly lower GPA than their peers, with a difference of .22 GPA points. According to Beyer, the acceptance to Mercyhurst University is not based purely on academics. Mercyhurst admissions take into consideration the expanse of a student’s four-

LAKER MOMENT

By Casey Bleuel

Fellow Lakers enjoy a nice dip in the pool outside the Wayne apartments this past Labor Day. Several pools have been seen around campus due to the unusually warm weather for this time of year.

Advertisement

year high school transcripts and character traits.

“This is not about lowering our standards,” said Beyer.

“This is about giving students an opportunity they wouldn’t have otherwise.”

Beyer stated that the decision to go test optional has so far increased cultural, racial, socioeconomic and gender diversity on campus. He said that the 2015-2016 freshmen have demonstrated their ability to preserve, lead and engage in their communities.

Junior Intelligence major, Kaley Morrison does not

think that having these new measures will affect the quality of her education.

“I feel that it won’t affect me much as an Intelligence Studies major,” Morrison said.

“Our school has great programs, great staff and a great environment that speaks for itself.”

@TheMerciad

September 9, 2015

Page 5

The Merciad

Arts &

Entertainment ‘Lughnasa’ ends Summer Theatre

By Naomi Greenstein Staff writer

This past weekend, the Summer Theatre Program drew to a close as Mercyhurst University students gave a performance of the Brian Friel play, “Dancing at Lughnasa.”

“Dancing at Lughnasa” is the story of five unmarried sisters as they eke out their lives in a small village in Ireland in 1936.

The action is told through the memory of the illegitimate son of one of the sisters as he remembers the five women who raised him.

He is only seven in 1936, the year his elderly uncle returns after serving for 25 years as a missionary in Uganda, and

his father, a charming Welsh drifter, strolls up the lane and sweeps his mother away in an elegant dance across the fields.

The play was performed from Aug. 27 to Aug. 30.

The student actors who participated in the program arrived back on campus two weeks early in order to have time for rehearsals.

For this performance, every cast member and backstage worker signed a professional contract and earned a stipend for their work.

The contacts gave these students the opportunity to work in a professional setting and practice their craft in front of an audience that would not regularly have access to quality live theatre.

The next production of the

theatre department will be “The Drowsy Chaperone,” a wildly funny musical that will be performed in the Taylor Little Theatre from Oct. 22-25.

Narrated by a man listening to his favorite musical, the characters and story begin to come to life in his apartment as this Man in Chair shares his passion for the musical with the members of the audience.

The spring play, to be performed April 7-10, is a work

by Federico Garcia Lorca called “Blood Wedding.”

This folk tragedy tells the story of a young Andalusian bride who elopes with her childhood sweetheart Leonardo on her wedding day, abandoning her husband-to-be at the altar.

Brett D. Johnson, Ph.D., director of the Theatre Department at Mercyhurst, says his hopes for this season are to get more students involved in the performances and to continue producing high-caliber work, as well as get more students in the audience to see and appreciate the work being done by their classmates.

Tickets for all performances are available at the Mercyhurst box office, and many are also available online.

Be sure to attend the performances this year, and do not miss out on yet another great year of work from the Mercyhurst Theatre Department. @Naomiruth29

Contributed photo

The Summer Theatre Program drew to a close with the production of “Dancing at Lughnasa.”

‘Thread’ creators in PAC ‘Everyman’ plays in PAC

By Phuong Nguyen

By Rachel Sobina

Mercyhurst University is excited to welcome the creative minds behind the emotional musical “Invisible Thread” at the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center this Wednesday, Sept. 9 at 7:30 p.m.

“Invisible Thread,” previously titled “Witness Uganda,” is a Broadway-bound musical written by Griffin Matthews and Matt Gould.

It blurs the boundaries of real life and theater and tells the true story of their experiences as aid workers in Africa.

“Invisible Thread” engages audiences as it weaves poetic lyricism throughout spoken word, musical theatre and Gospel.

Not only is the musical fascinating in of itself, but also the background of the creators tell another inspiring story.

Griffin, like anyone in their 20s, was determined to find his place in the world.

He arrived in Uganda to help build a school, but when he met a group of destitute, orphaned teenagers, he left his job and volunteered for a charity in Africa.

This becomes an unex-

On this Saturday, Sept. 12, the first showing from the new National Theatre Live will be the movie “Everyman.”

As humans, everyone goes through cycles of life, and during our lives, we experience many different events, both good and bad.

What if you were told that you had to go and find a book that contains everything you did in your life, good and bad?

Would you want to find the book and read it? Would you be ashamed by what you saw?

Would it make you change your ways?

“Everyman” might just make you do that.

In the play “Everyman,” directed by Rufus Norris, the new leader of the National Theatre, one person has the opportunity to change.

One man gets the chance at a final, frantic and empowering journey to bring back the “book of count,” which con-

Contributing writer

Contributing writer

witnessuganda.com photo

The children of Uganda inspired the stars of “Invisible Thread” (Griffin Matthews, center and Matt Gould, second from left) to turn their experiences into an award-winning musical.

pected, yet profound, journey that changes his, and their, lives forever.

Matt Gould is the co-writer of the two-time Richard Rodgers Award-winning musical, “Invisible Thread.”

The compassion is thrilling; “Invisible Thread” uplifts everyone’s heart.

Hence, the one-night only performance is a privilege to Mercyhurst students.

Having a chance to meet the creators Griffin Matthews and Matt Gould is not the only highlight of the night.

The show will also present the music from their award-winning show before it premieres on Broadway this

upcoming fall, alongside a local Gospel choir.

Griffin and Gould dedicate these songs to people across the world who are fighting for their right to love whom ever they choose.

“Invisible Thread” infuses a world pop score with African beats in the journey of a man battling to find his place in a world full of injustice as he asks “Is changing the world even possible?”

The event will happen in the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center on Sept. 9 at 7:30p.m.

Tickets are $20 for adults, and $5 with Mercyhurst ID.

By Naomi Greenstein Staff writer

Online

miac photo

“‘71” will play in Taylor Little Theatre this Sunday at 2 p.m.

the New York Times raved that “Mr. O’Connell runs away with ‘ ’71,’ in which his character’s every emotional, psychological and physical hurdle makes for kinetic cinema.”

Though the dialogue may be difficult, “’71” is a rapid-fire story of the violent struggle in Ireland.

As the Times also claimed, it is “a rare film that locates viciousness and kindness on

Full list of events can be found on the PAC website

tains all of Everyman’s good and bad deeds.

After Death approaches Everyman and explains his task, Everyman sets out to figure out if he lived a life worthy of salvation, or a life condemned to damnation.

Throughout the show, Everyman must relive his actions, which help him realize what is truly important.

As the clock counts down

his time, Everyman finds the book of his personal good and bad deeds, but is it enough to help him gain eternal redemption?

“Everyman” will be playing at the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center on Saturday Sept. 12 at 12:55 p.m.

Tickets are $7.50 with a Mercyhurst student ID. @TheMerciad

‘Man from U.N.C.L.E.’ thrills

By David McDonald Cinema Club member

Sunday movie ‘’71’ in TLT This Sunday, Mercyhurst University’s afternoon movie series will resume in Taylor Little Theatre.

This weekend’s movie is called “’71,” a 2014 British historical action film.

Set against the sectarian violence of Belfast in Northern Ireland, “’71” takes place over a single night in the life of a young British soldier, played

by Jack O’Connell, accidentally abandoned by his unit following a riot on the streets of Belfast in 1971.

Unable to tell friend from foe, and increasingly wary of his own comrades, he must survive the night alone and find his way to safety through a disorientating, alien and deadly landscape.

Directed by Yann Demange,

miac photo

Mercyhurst welcomes the National Theatre Live film series with the showing of the movie “Everyman” in the PAC.

both sides of Northern Ireland’s Troubles.” “’71” will be shown this Sunday, Sept. 13 at 2 p.m. in Taylor Little Theatre.

Tickets are $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, students and military, and $1 for Mercyhurst students with their ID. Don’t miss out on the first of many great movies at the ‘Hurst!

Spy movies seem to be the one genre of film that keeps cranking out hits.

The newest spy flick, “The Man From U.N.C.L.E,” is no exception.

Most modern spy thrillers still contain the essential elements of a classic spy movie: a suave hero, a beautiful dame and enough covertness to keep the audience vested in the tale.

With the release of “The Man From U.N.C.L.E,” it seems a new form of spy narrative is in the works.

Part James Bond, part Pink Panther, “The Man From U.N.C.L.E” mixes all of the best elements of classic espionage films, but incorporates a satirical twist.

From the opening credits, the storyline unfolded at a rapid pace with a daring escape and car chase sequence.

Adding to the flick’s unique nature were dual protagonists, both with a talent for trouble.

First is Napoleon Solo, a suave American ex-con and

View upcoming performances: www.miac.mercyhurst.edu

comingsoon.com photo

“The Man from U.N.C.L.E” thrills audiences and redefines the modern definition of the spy flick.

CIA agent with the unique propensity for ending up in tricky situations. His counterpart is Illya Kuryakin, an overly-aggressive Soviet spy with an easy to flare temper.

The film centers on the two rivals working together, alongside the daughter of a nuclear physicist to defeat a criminal organization.

It is hard to muster negative feedback given its unique qualities, outstanding performances and highly satirical nature.

However, it did lack one component: a connection to its roots. The story is loosely based off the TV show “U.N.C.L.E.” Though the film was a fresh take on the classic, it would have been nice to see an element paying tribute to the old show.

If you were planning on going to the movies this weekend, then the sardonically intense and invigorating, “The Man From U.N.C.L.E” is the perfect spy flick.

www.merciad.mercyhurst.edu/ arts_entertainment

Page 6

September 9, 2015

The Merciad

Opinion

The views expressed in the opinion section of The Merciad do not necessarily reflect the views of Mercyhurst University, the staff of The Merciad Relay for Life successful or the Catholic Church. Responses on any subject are always welcomed and can be emailed to opinionmerciad@mercyhurst.edu.

’Hurst ‘Live in a Bus’ campaign demeans students, education

By Ryan Kushner Opinion editor

When browsing social media, I usually spend the majority of my time feeling embarrassed by high school pictures of myself that reemerge on occasion. Apparently, I was under the impression that fanny packs were a desirable clothing option back then.

However, this summer I spent a significant amount of my social media time feeling embarrassed, not by my sad 15-year-old mustache, but by a promotion, highlighted by our prestigious university, known as “Live in a Bus and Tuition’s on Us.” Mercyhurst North East and the popular Erie radio station Happi 92.7-FM teamed up this year to offer free books and tuition (the equivalent of $35,000) at Mercyhurst North East to the lucky student who could endure living on a 48-seat school bus for the longest period of time. The contest was closely monitored and broadcast by Happi 92.7, and Mercyhurst got in on the publicity posting pictures and updates of the event and on its website and social media accounts as well.

This disappointing PR stunt is embarrassing on two levels.

First, the contest trivialized the quality education that Mercyhurst provides, and has provided for nearly 90 years-likening the work and legacy of the Sisters of Mercy to the cash prize awarded at the end of “Survivor.”

Second, and much more importantly, it took advantage of earnest individuals who lacked the monetary means of paying the considerably high price of a Mercyhurst education. Mercyhurst exploited the needs of these individuals in the interest of shameless self-promotion. The Happi 92.7 radio station is obviously guilty of this too (and was, I presume, the mastermind behind this kitsch “reality show” idea), but I don’t care about them. I can get all my Taylor Swift songs on YouTube.

Higher education has always been a privilege, and one that is aggressively sought after by people all over the world looking for a better life. This has perhaps never been more apparent than now, with tuition fees skyrocketing all over the country and the burden of student loans crippling those fortunate enough to graduate.

To take advantage of this situation and use it for marketing or entertainment purposes

is in bad taste. What’s next, a game show modeled after The Bachelor where we have to charm Luke the Laker for a meal plan? Just give me the rose, you Irish bastard!

What seemed to be the most important rule or “catch” of the competition was the scarcity in which contestants were allowed to exit the bus without being disqualified.

“Contestants will be allowed several carefully timed breaks each day to use restroom and shower facilities,” Mercyhurst explained in a promotional article on its website. “Aside from these breaks, however, the bus will be monitored around the clock to ensure participants don’t leave. Leaving the bus during unauthorized times will result in elimination from the contest.”

It seems that contestants were essentially caged in the bus like so many animals – even most convicts are at least allowed a toilet in their cell.

Does timing the bathroom use of these underprivileged individuals sound like the work of an institution that claims to be “socially merciful” in a manner that “restores human dignity?”

If Mercyhurst has the means to give away free tuition, why not do it in a way that uplifts the human spirit? Is that not as marketable? Where was the

Office of Mission Integration when this bizarre marketing stunt was approved?

After the competition came to a close, 54 days after beginning, Mercyhurst “graciously” awarded the tuition prize to the three remaining contestants.

When profiling one of the winners, 23, on their website, Mercyhurst wrote: “Though it’s been a bummer missing out on summer, and there was that night they left the emergency exit on the bus ceiling open and it rained inside, [the contestant has] enjoyed living rent-free.” Ha ha? Isn’t this charming and fun?

Another recipient of the prize, a 28-year-old mother of three, “endured 54 days of sleeping on the bus (‘the worst,’ she said),” and the third winner, 28, was quoted by the university as saying “I have not enjoyed the 50-degree nights, and trying to fit on the bench seats to sleep.”

Perhaps a more accurate name for the contest next summer would be “Live on a Bus and Discomfort, Humiliation, Dehumanization and (Possibly) Tuition’s on Us.”

@TheMerciad

The Good...

Enrollment maintained steady numbers this year as roughly 700 new students entered the Mercyhurst gates. Just over 600 of them are traditional freshmen!

New Mercyhurst President Michael Victor announced plans for “Mercy Day,” which will feature canceled midday classes and a campus celebration of the university’s Catholic heritage Sept.

24.

Maintenance began working on the rusty, crumbling staircases of the parking ramp north of the Hirt Center. This is a great first step, and the administration will hopefully continue the renovation past the spray-painting phase.

The Bad...

Massive craters in both Lewis and Wayne parking areas have the potential to cause serious damage to students’ vehicles, or open a gateway to hell.

The Ugly...

Students were informed this past Friday that the university’s chin-enhanced mascot, Louie the Laker, died a hero in the Student Union flood this past February. Why are students just hearing about this now? Was this a cover up? New mascot “Luke the Laker” was then introduced before students had a chance to mourn.

Considering the carillon bells: two views on the revived ringing The Weird...

PRO

CON

By Colleen Niebauer Contributing writer

Upon first arriving on campus, I barely noticed the new addition of the carillon bells this year. It wasn’t until a few of my friends began complaining about the noise of the bells waking them up that I noticed and later began to appreciate the return of the hourly chimes.

I appreciate the tradition and the meaning behind the bells, as it fits with Mercyhurst’s history and the atmosphere of the campus.

“

... it fits with

Mercyhurst’s history and the atmosphere of the campus.

”

Online

I’m not alone in this.

Graphic Design professor Peter Stadtmueller, who grew up with family only a few blocks from the ‘Hurst, developed nostalgia for the dependable clang of the bells and is glad to see them back

in action.

“As a teacher of the digital arts, I definitely value things of tradition,” Stadtmueller said.

The bells, according to Stadtmueller, served not only as a reminder of the time of day, but also as a symbol for the comforts of home.

Although Mercyhurst is not necessarily a “big name” school, the addition of the bells provides the campus with a prestigious air. Alumni may also appreciate the familiarity of the bells when revisiting the grounds of the ‘Hurst (though the bells are now played electronically, a method more efficient than using real bells, which require more upkeep).

The ringing of the Mercyhurst bells are not new or a major change to the school, they are a tradition finally being revived after two years of neglect. Why complain and focus on the bad parts of the bell when you can embrace them and appreciate the unity they bring back to campus? At least we know that when we look back at our time on campus, we will never forget the iconic bells. @TheMerciad

By Adrian Monty Contributing writer

In this day and age, who needs to be reminded of the beginning of a new hour, every hour, for 14 a day?

Apparently, the students of Mercyhurst, not to mention the good citizens of Erie, need to be made aware for whom the bells toll 14 times a day. Played in abundance, whatever charm there was in the Mercyhurst bells has undoubtedly worn off by noon.

The digital carillon bells were reborn just this August after being out of use for two years. I’m not sure how often they rang when they were in use before, but they need to be toned down a bit.

In the olden days of Catholicism, church bells were rung two or three times a day to notify townspeople to perform their daily prayers.

These days, the bells would be much more appreciated if they rang in mediation as they did back then as opposed to the overbearing amount that they currently chime.

This sparsity of ringing would give students the

Read more at

merciad.mercyhurst.edu/opinion

Adult men lounging in kiddie pools spotted around campus this past week.

chance to cherish the bells as opposed to what some of us, myself included, are currently feeling about them, a mild to extreme annoyance.

Sophomore Public Health major C.C. Passe pointed out the invasive noise levels of the thunderous new bell chimes, which echo over campus and around the city each day, like them or not.

“I think they would be pretty if they didn’t blast them,” Passe said.

The bells are perhaps even more of a nuisance when they begin going off during classes.

Professors need to raise their voices or pause their lectures to wait for the bells to cease their clamoring, especially with the minute-long Alma Mater at 2 p.m., which interrupts the professors who are trying to wrap up their 1 p.m. to 2:05 p.m. classes.

Looking at the bigger picture, the bells may not be the absolute worst things that have happened to this establishment. Looking at the dayto-day picture, it comes pretty close. If the frequency in which they ring is reduced, the clang of the iconic bells would be more tolerable. @TheMerciad

The Merciad Editors Sami Rapp Karah Hollis Catherine Rainey Jose Nufio Carly Contraguerro Megan Pacileo Ryan Kushner Mary Barnes Margaret Urso Victoria Kreysar Bill Welch

Positions @mercyhurst.edu Editor-in-Chief editormerciad Managing Editor managingmerciad News Editor newsmerciad Features Editor featuremerciad Sports Editor sportsmerciad A&E Editor entertainmentmerciad Opinion Editor opinionmerciad Copy Editor copymerciad Photo Editor photomerciad Ad Manager admerciad wwelch Adviser

The Merciad is the official student-produced newspaper of Mercyhurst University. It is published throughout the school year, with the exception of finals weeks. Our office is in Hirt, Room 120B. Our telephone number is (814) 824-2376.

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 to box PH 485 or via email at opinionmerciad@mercyhurst.edu.

Write for The Merciad, email editormerciad@mercyhurst.edu

September 9, 2015

Page 7

The Merciad

Sports

Football wins home opener 35-20

By Liz Montemorano Contributing writer

The Mercyhurst football team defeated the Bentley Falcons 35-20 in their season opener on Saturday, Sept. 5.

Mercyhurst’s offense started off strong with two touchdowns in the first quarter.

The returning quarterback, redshirt senior Brendan Boylan, made these possible

with throws to senior John Matarazzo and redshirt senior T.J. Latimer.

With another touchdown by senior Jaquan Williams, and an incredible interception by redshirt senior Tevin Stewart, the Laker’s offensive line continued their drive. The interception was made in the Falcon’s end zone, preventing them from scoring at that point.

At the half, the Lakers and Falcons were tied at 14-14.

In the fourth quarter, redshirt senior Brandon Brown-Dukes made his 30th career-rushing touchdown.

This gave the Lakers a 28-20 lead.

Stewart made his second interception in the fourth quarter at the Falcon’s 10-yard line. He returned it 90 yards for a touchdown, making the score 35-20 to clinch the win.

Junior kicker Dylan Kondis went 5 for 5 in kicking extra

points during the game.

After losing the first four games in the fall of 2014, the Lakers strive to “start fast and finish strong,” said Stewart.

“All spring we were just preaching to start fast, finish strong. We just made that a goal of ours, to start fast and that’s what we did,” said Stewart. This is the team’s motto for the season.

Stewart was named PSAC Western Division Defensive

Casey Bleuel photo

Player Of The Week based on his performance at Saturday’s game. This was his first time receiving this award.

Mercyhurst’s next game is at Tullio Field on Saturday, Sept.

12, against West Chester University of Pennsylvania. Kickoff is at noon.

@TheMerciad

The Mercyhurst football team’s victory gave them their first season opener win in four years. Junior kicker Dylan Kondis (93) kicks the ball during a kick-off for the Lakers (pictured to the left). Kondis went 5 for 5 in kicking extra points during the game.

Returning quarterback, redshirt senior Brendan Boylan, picked up where he left off last season, leading the Lakers to a 35-20 win over Bentley University in their season opener. Boylan completed 20 of 25 passes during the game, threw for 305 yards and three touchdowns.

Casey Bleuel photo

Men’s soccer falls to Notre Dame College 3-1

By Marco Cicchino Contributing writer

Casey Bleuel photo

Junior defender, Michael Dirienzo (6), attempted one shot during Mercyhurst’s 3-1 loss to Notre Dame College on Saturday. This set the Lakers record to 0-2 on the season.

The Mercyhurst men’s soccer team, currently ranked No. 9 fell 3-1 against No. 24 ranked Notre Dame College Falcons on Saturday, Sept.

6. This set them back 0-2 to open their season.

It was an aggressive game at Tullio Field as the Lakers and the Falcons were two Top-25 ranked teams.

After only 6:22 into the match, Falcon’s Declan McGivern sent a shot into the net, beating Lakers goaltender, junior Nicholas Smith.

The assist came from Falcon Felipe Silva and the Falcons quickly took the lead 1-0.

Junior Joseph Korb answered that shot in the 22nd minute of the game with a

shot on the right side, making it a 1-1 game. Senior Richard Vanhorne was credited with the assist after sending a pass from the left side.

The score remained tied at the half.

At 5:53 into the second half, Falcons Reece Daly sent a corner kick to McGivern where McGivern then headed the ball into the net for his second goal of the match.

The Falcons took the lead, 2-1.

At 52:09 in the game, three yellow cards were issued over one play. Two were given to Lakers players, redshirt senior Thomas Davis and redshirt sophomore Michael Lennox.

The other was issued to Renan Troccoli of the Falcons.

Less than 14 minutes later, the winning shot for the Falcon’s came from Arthur

Favero off of an assist from Leonardo Paiva.

The high energy in the game led to a combined 29 fouls. 17 fouls on the Falcons and 12 on the Lakers.

Smith made four saves out of seven shots on goal.

Falcons goalkeeper Spencer Semple made three saves from four shots on goal.

The Lakers hope to pick up their first win of the season against West Chester University on Friday, Sept. 11, at 3:30 p.m. on the Mercyhurst soccer field. They will also be playing at home on Saturday, Sept. 12, at 3:30 p.m. against Bloomsburg University.

@TheMerciad

Women’s soccer suffers Band, fans and cheers losses over weekend

By Haleigh Giebel Contributing writer

The Mercyhurst women’s soccer team opened their 2015 season with a double overtime 0-0 tie against Indiana University of Pennsylvania on Thursday, Sept. 3, and a 1-2 loss against Lock Haven on Saturday, Sept. 5.

“The PSAC Women’s Soccer Conference is ranked third in the nation for competition, so a strong, physical and tactical challenge awaits us this year,” said Head Coach Keith Cammidge.

The Lakers outshot the Crimsion Hawks in the first half, 5-3, with early pressure from senior Lauren Testa, who made two of these shots.

Testa, a forward from Rochester, N.Y., was named to All-PSAC Third Team the past two seasons and was the leading goal scorer.

During the second half, the Lakers gave IUP early chances on net, but junior goaltender

Kristen Koch held them in the game.

Senior midfielder Allie Cornacchia and grad student forward Rachel Fulton both made strong shots that were saved buy IUP’s goalkeeper, Jessica Printz.

IUP’s Lindsay Jarolmen received a yellow card at 62:37 and Testa was given a yellow card for aggressive play at 68:28.

During the first overtime, senior Fawn Mulholland had a chance to grab the win when she was given a penalty kick at 92:34, but Printz made the save.

Senior forward Kristina Roberti also tried a shot that went wide.

The Lakers had five shots on net during the second overtime.

Both teams came up empty handed with Koch making six saves and Printz making eight.

With six saves, Koch recorded her first shutout of the season.

During Saturday’s game

against Lock Haven, the Lakers fell behind early in the first half when Lock Haven’s Jordan Shoff put a goal past Koch at 12:00.

Shoff scored again to start the second half on a breakaway shot.

The Lakers fought back with a goal in the 67th minute from junior forward Nicole McAlpin and assisted by Testa, but it wasn’t enough.

The Lakers had eight shots on goal during this game.

Three coming from McAlpin and two from Roberti.

With the tie and loss, the Lakers begin the 2015 PSAC soccer season at 0-1-1.

“With 11 seniors, this year’s team should have the experience and talent to be very competitive within the PSAC,” said Cammidge.

Mercyhurst plays again at home against West Chester University on Friday, Sept. 11, at 1 p.m.

Field Hockey Women’s Soccer Men’s Soccer Football Women’s Soccer Men’s Soccer Men’s Soccer

Casey Bleuel photo

Luke the Laker got fans pumped up and involved during the football game from the field and the stands. He raised his hands in motion for the crowd to get loud and cheer on the team. He also came into the stands to take selfies with fans (pictured to the right) and throw out candy. He created an upbeat and energetic atmosphere for the crowd and players.

Sarah Paschal photo

@TheMerciad

Upcoming home games 9/9/15 9/11/15 9/11/15 9/12/15 9/12/15 9/12/15 9/15/15

This is the second year the Mercyhurst Athletic Band has been playing at football games. They begin the game by forming a tunnel with the cheerleaders and dancers and play as the football players run through.

Throughout the game many songs are played including Seven Nation Arrmy for touchdowns, Fight Song for field goals and a halftime show.

4:00 p.m.

1:00 p.m.

3:30 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

1:00 p.m.

3:30 p.m.

4:00 p.m.

The Mercyhurst cheerleading squad, made up of 11 girls, led the fans in cheers and band dances throughout the game. They used their pom poms, signs and projected voices to get the crowd to chant with them. Many of the cheers are easy to follow along to as they chant about Mercyhurst’s green and blue colors and spelling out the word Lakers. They also put up stunts and tumble across the sidelines to show their skills.

Casey Bleuel photo

Page 8

September 9, 2015

The Merciad

Laker

Living

Historically Tory: History in the Making

By Victoria Kreysar Ad Manager

I spent three weeks of my summer vacation sailing Lake Erie on the Brig Niagara.

People ask me if I had fun and I never know what to reply.

One minute I was driving six hours straight through the night to get to my graduation, the next day was a Monday and I was certainly late when I stumbled up to the docks where the Brig Niagara sat in port.

I felt so small, staring up at her rigging, the lines and spars I would come to know. She’s a good, old-fashioned tall ship, held together by nails, good intentions and desperate prayers.

I did have fun, in a weird, masochistic way. Instead of sitting by a pool with friends, I was waking up after three hours of sleep to stumble on deck in the dark hours of the morning to sail a ship. I had to hand-flush my toilet. I slept in a hammock. I was told when to eat. I was told when to sleep. I was told when I could

pee.

All of my belongings had to fit in a canvas bag. There were no showers. There was no heat. There was no air conditioning--and barely any airflow below deck. There was minimal electricity and no wifi. In short, there was 110 feet of ship for me to love and hate all at the same time.

I missed the first few days of orientation to graduate from Mercyhurst. I was told not to worry because it would be fine, but suddenly I was standing with Port Side, Second Division, getting orders yelled at me from a bearded Irishman. As everyone ran about, I realized I didn’t even know how to tie a proper knot.

They put me on fenders, a simple job of holding a big rubber bumper alongside the ship so she wouldn’t get banged up coming into port. Naturally, I managed to mangle that job and the next day awoke to a new job, in the event of a fire or flood, I would run below deck into the disaster and close the watertight doors to prevent further damage. That afternoon, I sat

Contributed photo

Crew members furl one of the large sails on Niagara.

with the bosun and learned how to tie my knots.

Safety is a top concern aboard a tall ship because it is one of the least safe places on earth. A wooden ship is always rotting away, slowly sinking into the water no matter how much care you give her.

Essentially everything is a fire hazard; as one of the mates said, “a ship is a finely stacked pile of kindling.”

We had to wear harnesses any time we climbed the rigging, yet there was nothing to clip into until you freeclimbed up 90 feet and swung over onto the fighting deck.

You learn a lot when working in the rigging, like how you might cry after three hours of struggling to rig a sail only to discover the block was twisted and you had to start over.

I learned the slight sway of the ship on deck is amplified by what feels like a million when you’re hanging onto a line suspended 80 feet up on a wooden mast. I learned to trust my grip because sometimes that’s all there was, and I learned that the Hail Mary was my go-to panic prayer.

Now when people ask me, I find it easiest to explain my adventurous summer with a

Way back When...

The Merciad presents articles from yesteryear in their original form, including headlines. This week, our blast from the past is from Sept. 28, 1956.

story or two. Starting with how I couldn’t believe all 5 feet, 10 inches of me would fit in a hammock. On day one when I went to climb in my new bed after learning how to tie it, like any classic comedy, the nettles snapped and I fell right out.

One night, while in the middle of Lake Erie, we discovered there was a racoon onboard, cowering in one of our lifeboats. I spent my three hour watch nicely begging the creature to stay put as we sealed the hatches. The next day we had to shoot him with the firehose to get him out so a group of confused park rangers could take him away.

At the port in Buffalo, NY, we heard an impromptu concert from Flo Rida before the temperature dropped to the low 40s. That night, all I could think was how I regretted living like it was the early 1800s because I was cold, miserable and wearing socks with my sandals.

Some people ask why I did it and to be honest, I barely know why. It was an adventure. It was history coming

Best foods at Egan 1. Buffalo Chicken Bake 2. Omelettes 3. Hummus 4. Corn Fritters 5. Super Burger 6. M&M Cookies 7. French Toast 8. Mexican Wedding Cookies 9. Walking Tacos 10. Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese

hued formica tables and curtained with printed drapes over white.

Bookstore Redecorated The bookstore decor adopts the new look with grey and green tile floor covering, painted counters, extra lights and new grey drapes.Mercyhurst loungers can now receive phone calls at a convenient spot-right outside the lounge, while plans are also underway for converting the Home Ec lecture hall into a waiting room for gentlemen callers.

New McAuley Lounge McAuley Hall is adding a stylish touch of its own. The former ironing room is becoming a T.V. Lounge. Grey linoleum, light green walls and green print drapes combine with wicker furniture to give the room a flattering look.

Game Zone

Find Murkade the Lizard

Find Murkade the Lizard, the Merciad’s mascot. Upon finding him, circle the spot he is hiding and take a photo of it. Upload the photo to our Facebook page. Next Tuesday, we will use a raffle-style drawing to choose a winner. The winner will receive a $5 gift card.

@TheMerciad

Top 10

Campus Dons New Duds Adopts ‘Fair Lady’ Look It’s now chic to look pretty say the Fashionwise and so voila. Mercyhurst has donned new features this fall emerging with a stylish “Fair Lady” look.

Dirt roads are outmoded and driveways and parking lots wear a shining black coat of pavement. Moreover, the Sisters of Mercy will be traveling in the height of fashion in a silver and white station wagon and blue Ford.

Rooms Brightened Rooms in the residence halls have been redecorated for gracious living. Walls have taken on a cocoa color with complementing tan and white drapes.

Delight to Dine Student opinion states that dining is now a delight. Why not, for the Dining Room has been outfitted with maple

to life. I can now unironically listen to the Dropkick Murphys. I understand the commands in Pirates of the Caribbean. More importantly, I realized how much you learn about yourself when going through something as unique as being a shiphand.

There’s a certain kind of love you develop for tall ships and it grows on you like a good fungus. It’s gross and nasty but you wouldn’t trade it for the world. The water begins to become your home.

The days don’t matter because someone will wake you up for your next watch and you sail until you don’t and when you get to port, you find a shower and a good bar. The stars are there at night to help remind you you’re not alone; the sunlight lets you see what you’re doing and where you’ve been.

When I look back now, I realize that time onboard really just sailed by.

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