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Feb 17 | 2021 WWW.KUTOWER.COM
TH E I N DEPEN D EN T VOI C E O F KE AN U N IV E R S IT Y
Dr. Repollet Viewed as a Role Model for Students of Color By Leshay Jones Last year, Kean hired Dr. Lamont Repollet as its first African-American President, making history not only at the university, but in the state. Dr. Repollet has been the first in a plethora of positions in the world of education, from the first Black principal at Carter High School, to the first Black Commissioner of Education in the state of New Jersey, and now among one of the first college presidents of color in New Jersey. He was also the superintendent of schools in Asbury Park for four years, and served as a member of Kean’s Board of Trustees for
several years. “I want to demonstrate leadership to those in the Black and brown community because we do not typically see ourselves in these positions,” Dr. Repollet said. As the first, Dr. Repollet is confident that he will not be the last, and he hopes to spark a flame in AfricanAmerican youth. He wants to show students
“I want students to know that anything is possible as long as they don’t give up.” Photo by Kean Website
of color that they can hold these positions despite any obstacles in the way. “There were a lot of great educators before me, and there will be even more after me. I want to model the way for all students,” Dr. Repollet said. One of Dr. Repollet’s biggest challenges in life became one of the very things that inspired him to want better for his life and the lives of others: poverty. From a trailer park in Louisiana to the projects in Brooklyn, Dr. Repollet wanted to create something more for himself. His first choice for university was Hampton, continued on page 5
18th Leader of Kean University
Black History Month: Meaning, Expectations, and Celebration By Lenny K. Mata Cuevas
“Black community is not monolithic. In celebration of Black History Month, we will be observing Black Trendsetters throughout
construct. Dr. James Conyers, Director of Africana Studies at Kean University explained how he learned and was transformed by
In a college with such a diverse population like Kean, Black History Month also represents an opportunity to raise questions about selfidentity, empathy, and the difficult process of reeducation. Organizations like Black Leadership Union (B.L.U) or PanAfrican Student Union (P.A.S.U.) have scheduled a series of events to promote the importance and responsibility to learn and teach Photo by Malcom Moreira Photo by Somos2013 "Afro Latin somos" by somos2013 is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0 about the impact President of Pan African Union Student of black excellence on American History. history. We really want to explore the different African Studies and the appreciation of Black “Black History Month is a time to educate influences that Black people have made History. the public and celebrate the contributions throughout time and we are very excited to “From the moment that I saw Malcolm X share this history with our members,” said and learned from Dr. John Henrik Clarke, I of Black Americans” Reads a post on PASU Hubbard. searched to limit Eurocentric thinking in my Instagram’s feed. As well, this month is about accepting person to break through to Africancentric Vanessa Hubbard, president of the Black and embracing your African roots proudly interpretations of reality,” said Dr. Conyers. Leadership Union (BLU), said Black History by taking examples from great men and Likewise, Hubbard explained how the Month is an opportunity to observe Black women that have changed the wheel of social appreciation of Black History Month gives accomplishments.
her a sense of identity and why it is important to continue learning and value your heritage. “As a Black Woman, Black History Month
“Black History Month is not something that we do once a year in February”
Photo by Enokson
"Black History Month" by Enokson is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
is a time for me to celebrate my African American lineage,” she said. “History tells us that African Americans have played an integral role in the progression of this country. It keeps me connected to my identity, to my family, and to my community.” Identity is one of the many important aspects of Black History Month. In a college with such a diverse population like Kean, Black History Month also represents an opportunity to raise questions about selfidentity, empathy, and the difficult process of re-education. Ethnic groups whose roots are significantly tied to black heritage and culture yet are rarely portrayed as a part of it. For instance, Latinx or Hispanic communities which continued on page 4
RELATIONSHIPS
Coping With Heartbreak During Covid-19
By Chelsey Jaipersaud They say nice guys always finish last...Nice guys are the ones who are always there to boost your confidence. Nice guys don’t get the pretty girl or the popular girl or the one with the bubbly personality. They forgot to mention that nice girls finish last too. Maybe you’ll be lucky enough to meet a guy who will give you his number rather than his Snapchat that he uses to send 10 other girls a “you're so beautiful”. Maybe he won’t give you one of those adorable pet names in order to avoid getting your name confused with the other options on his list. Maybe he won’t send you a picture of him and another girl smiling all close and cozy after ignoring you for a week and maybe you won’t have to cry yourself asleep wondering why you weren’t good enough for the boy
who made you smile every time his name popped up on your screen. And maybe you are more vulnerable to this kind of situation in the age of Covid. Heartbreak comes in all forms within the lives of young adults, but with the Covid-19 pandemic, there is the added weight of extra stressors including anxiety, depression, health problems and an increased use of harmful substances. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a healthy way to cope with everything is by connecting with others. Human beings crave connections and
“Your worth remains the same whether someone else acknowledges it or not” Photo by Chelsey Jaipersaud
Healing Heart
continued on page 5
2 THE TOWER
February, 2021
25 Events Celebrate Black History Month at Kean By Tyler Clark This year Kean University kicked off its first Black History Month with its first Black president on February 4th. The virtual event was co-hosted by the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and the Kean P.U.L.S.E. Programming Board. This was the first Black History Month for the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion which was created in October 2020 by Kean President Lamont Repollet. Erin Lester, Program Coordinator for Student Affairs for the Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, said that her office has 25 events scheduled for Black History Month
American history, it is not separate from the nation’s struggle and progress. In fact, it is an integral part of what defines us as a nation,” Dr. Repollet said.
Photo by Kean University Website
Text that says “Black History Month” with red, yellow, and green background
performances were an inspiring celebration of Black culture in America. The most unique part of the event took place from the Kean Stage. There were two drummers who played traditional African rhythms while a group of Kean students performed traditional African dances. This part of the event must be seen and heard to be fully experienced. The songs being played had practical purposes as they were traditionally used to make people feel inspired or to celebrate events. The drummers and the dancers wore traditional African clothing with bold and vibrant colors such as red, purple, blue, and orange. This was an excellent way to showcase the influences of
University extending remote learning schedule to March By Christian Grullon Kean University has announced that they are extending the remote learning schedule for students to early March as a result of high COVID-19 rates. Hybrid and Face-to-Face courses that were
“We all must recognize that Black history is American history. It is not separate from the nation’s struggle and progress. In fact it is an integral part of what defines us as a nation.” Photo by Kean University Website
Photo by Kean University Website
Shawn Lawson performing spoken word.
and will continue to schedule events after the month is over. Lester noted that people of all races will be featured in future events. “It’s important to have representation around the year. Not just of black people, of a multiple spectrum of people. Whether that is Black, West Indian, African, Asian descent, ect. Just a diverse body and including them is very important to us,” Lester said. The highlight of the event was Dr. Repollet’s speech and reading of the proclamation. He gave his speech from Kean Hall, in front of a stained-glass window with light streaming in from behind. “We all must recognize that Black history is
Jordan Johnson performing spoken word.
He showcased the newly created Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. This office will ensure that everyone at Kean, not just students, can achieve their full potential by being treated fairly and equally. The event also featured two spoken word performances by Kean students. The performers were Jordan Johnson, an English and Writing Major and Shawn Lawson, who earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 2017. The performances were in a pitch-black room with only a single source of light coming from behind the performers. Both performers spoke of their experiences of being Black and what Black History means to them. These
African American culture in America. If you missed the event, there is a recording of it on the Kean Live Youtube page which can be found at this link: https://youtu.be/ cbXsaIoj8c4. The Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion will be hosting many events during Black History Month and beyond. You can find them on Instagram @keandeioffice. “Once those doors of opportunity open, you can’t shut them. You Kean Cougars can do the same. I want you to walk through those doors and climb higher in your own careers, work hard at Kean, take advantage of every opportunity we offer and please dream big,” Dr. Repollet said.
Advice For Future Interns ‘Internships Are The New Interview’
By Alejandro Arcos
The Offices of Career Services on Feb.1 hosted "Essential Skills for Internships," a workshop that provided valuable information and advice for students taking internships in Spring 2021 intended to provide valuable information and advice for students expecting to take their Spring 2021 internships. Namely, how to prove one’s worth while working as an intern and what employers would deem most valuable.
possible. With internships being the proving grounds for students searching for a career, Casey provides advice to help students prove their mettle in every employment opportunity. 1. Understanding Your Worth as a Young Intern Entering a new job as the youngest member of the group is always a daunting idea, however Casey believes that being the youngest in a work hierarchy is in fact a positive influence for the workforce.
Photo by by cpennywcupa is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0
"Kean University"
opportunity am I going to have to be a leader?’ You showing you have leadership skills in any environment is critical (…) Put yourself out there, take the risk, don’t wait for some to ask, ‘will you be the leader?’.” 3. Interacting with Your Boss With interconnectivity being a vital part of any relationship, let alone a business relationship, building rapport is just as important as doing a competent job whilst working for others. “Using the relations that you’re building on
Put yourself out there, take the risk, don’t wait for some to ask, ‘will you be the leader?’
Photo by Career Services website
A young man looking directly into the camera behind him whilst sitting with his laptop
The workshop was presented by Paul J. Casey, Assistant Director of Internships for the Office of Career Services, who holds 20 years of experience in leadership and has worked under various organizations and universities in management positions, such as Passaic County College as director of the Northeast Resiliency Consortium, executive director of the Boys & Girls Club in Garfield, and currently directing Kean’s own internship program. Kean University’s Office of Career Services is dedicated to aiding and advising students on career and internship related questions and issues. The office aims to help secure employment opportunities for students when
“As you walk into the internship it’s important for you to understand and know what it is that employers hope to get out of it.” Says Paul J. Casey “Interns usually are younger, their brains are growing, they’re going to generate ideas at a much faster pace than someone who’s been in the workforce for a long time.” 2. Establishing Influence over Seniority Casey believes that putting one’s leadership skills to work, even as a young intern, is a valuable trait to utilize. “Oftentimes you might think ‘The intern is the low man in the totem pole, everyone else has way more seniority than I do, so what
Photo by The Advocacy Project is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0
Kean University HRI Gallery
Photo by Career Services website
Statistics and success rates of students helped by Career Services
the internship is really important to the success that you’ll see. Find people in the workforce that can help mentor you, get to know other people in the organization, advocate for yourself understand the next steps that you’d need to take to move your career forward.” They continue. “Know that an internship is an opportunity to take a first step in a career.” Kean Career Services remains open for virtual appointment at Kean.edu through its listed hours of operation. For more information, visit Career Services at Kean.edu. To schedule a virtual appointment with Paul J. Casey or other representatives of the Career Services team, email them through their listed email accounts.
“I took the time to understand that it’s a much safer option because of the pandemic we are in right now”
Photo by denisbin is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0
Elizabeth New Jersey. Liberty Hall and Kean University
originally scheduled to start the week of February 15 are expected to begin the week of March 1, according to an email that was sent out to students, faculty and staff in late January. In a follow up email, University President Dr. Repollet stated that the decision was made based on the continuing high rate of COVID-19 transmission in the state. (More than 725,000 cases has been confirmed in New Jersey as of Feb. 9.) There was positive feedback from Kean students who supported this decision. “I took the time to understand that it’s a much safer option,” Jasmine Taylor, a sophomore majoring in Early Childhood Education, said, “because of the pandemic we are in right now.” Sneha Patil, a third year student, said that she is a better online learner and are ‘here for it’. Kesi Alejandro, a Political Science Senior, said all of their classes are remote and preferred to stay remote until the pandemic is better handled. Senior Roshorn Shivers majoring in Psychology said that ‘it’s a better option to be honest’. Even when the Hybrid and Faceto-Face phase begins some classes will be entirely remote for the semester. Remote courses and Kean Online courses will not be impacted by this change, and students should contact their instructors with any questions in regards to their course schedule or assignments.
February, 2021
THE TOWER 3
New Information Regarding May 2021 Commencement By Emily Robles With Covid-19 creating anxiety everywhere, those in the senior class of 2021 could not help but wonder what kind of graduation they should expect. Some students expressed concern about what they considered was a lack of information, and they said it left them with uneasy feelings. However, some of the anxiety was relieved in early February when the university announced plans for a May 2021 commencement. Due to Covid-19, things will be run differently than the typical graduation. In an email sent out to all students, the university announced that it will hold a series of in-person commencement ceremonies for the class of 2021 at Alumni Stadium on campus, beginning May 12. The new deadline for qualified students to apply for graduation is February 19. The press release about the commencement stated that Covid-19 protocols will be followed, with social distancing and face masks required. All ceremonies taking place in May will also be live streamed for family members to watch at home. Before the information was announced, soon to be graduates were worried about their commencement 2020 Commencement and the details of it due to it approaching Jones stated that the lack of information soon. had him feeling uneasy and lost. “I don’t believe I’ve received any information “I feel as though I should be more excited to about the commencement which increases be graduating but it hasn’t hit me yet,” Jones my anxiety because there’s a lot of unknown said. elements regarding life after graduation,” Senior communications major Tasha Dowbachuk said she also felt upset about not senior media and film major Luke Jones said.
university’s office and was told to keep checking Kean email and the school’s website. Now, upon receiving new updated information, Dowbachuk feels more excited about what’s to come. "Graduation is a huge milestone for any college student but particularly for the many at Kean who are the first in their families to go to college," President Repollet said in a press release about the event posted on the university’s website. "Our team is working hard to prepare ceremonies that are both memorable and safe as we continue to navigate the pandemic. Justin Brown, a senior media and film major, said he feels confident about the ceremony. “I’m all for it as long as it’s safe, sanitized and spaced out,” said Brown. “This is a big day for me and my family, but our health is bigger than all.” Another issue seniors had was the lack of information regarding senior pictures. In November, students had the opportunity to get their graduation pictures taken on campus, but many claimed to be unaware of this event or that it was even offered. “Personally, I don't remember seeing any emails or notifications for senior pictures. Not to say they weren't sent Photo by Kean Website out, but I get a lot of emails every day,” Brown said. Brown stated that he had already knowing any info. made plans to get his pictures taken elsewhere “The lack of information regarding and wasn’t that upset when he found out that commencement, accessibility to yearbooks he missed the appointments in November. and any updates for the Class of 2021 is Caroline Flood, a senior communications discouraging,” Dowbachuk said. major, said she didn't know about the Before any information was released, Dowbachuk said that she contacted the graduation photo sessions that took place in
“It took a while, but I’m hopeful now that the Class of 2021 will receive more information in a timely manner for us to celebrate our four years at Kean University.”
continued on page 5
Biden’s DACA Extension Gives Dreamer Students Hope
Phone Apps Tap Into Women's Heart Health By Tiye Bracy In honor of Women Heart Disease Awareness Month, Kean University’s Center for Leadership and Service held Wear Red: Phone Apps for Better Health, an online event that took place on Feb. 2 in conjunction with other Wear Red educational programs that happened throughout the week. The webinar was provided information about the different types of applications for better health that can be easily accessed on the phone. From resources that track food calories to menstrual cycles for women there are many apps that support better health. “One in five Americans track their health through an application on their smartphone,” Jason Pleitez, Junior, Business Management student said. A very popular application is the health app that is automatically installed on all Apple phones. Anyone with an I-phone has access to the heart app that track steps to sleeping patterns. “I do have an apple watch whenever I do exercise, I sync it with my activity app,”
Community Service and Civic Engagement Susan Figueroa said. MyFitnessPal is another common application that is easily downloadable on smartphones. This application will give the caloric details to popular eateries such as Applebees, Wendys, McDonalds, and many more. There are many health applications that catered to different needs such as sleep, stress relief, nutrition, fasting, etc. A few applications that can help if you’re having trouble sleeping are Headspace, Sleep Cycle, Sleepa, and Calm. “I never really had trouble sleeping but I did try it,” Pleitez said. “It gives you background music, sort of like calm soothing noises to help you fall asleep…” The next category of health applications is for diet and nutrition. A few apps that are used for food tracking are SeeHowYouEat, SuperFood, MyPlate, and MyFitnessPal. There are premium versions to most health applications if individuals decide to upgrade from the free plan. “The basic free versions really do work a
Photo by Molly Adams licensed under CC BY 2.0
’Defend DACA’
“I’m certainly more hopeful about dreamers being able to obtain citizenship under this new administration.” By Cindy Lazo After four tumultuous years under the Trump Administration, many Americans felt a sense of relief and hope when, hours after his inauguration, President Joe Biden signed several executive memorandums— one of which reasserts protections for DACA recipients, including Kean’s Dreamer students. DACA, standing for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, was first established back in 2012 by President Barack Obama so that young children who were brought over by their parents were not subject to deportations. The term ‘Dreamer’ first originated from the Dream Act, a bill that has been introduced to Congress multiple times, and it refers to
those young undocumented immigrants “President Biden's Executive Order seeks legally strengthen the DACA program and suspends any efforts by the new administration to end the program.” Kean Associate Professor Frank Argote-Freyre said, “The hope is that DACA renewals and new applicants will now be accepted. This removes the sword of deportation from over the heads of DACA Recipients or DACA eligible individuals.” Argote-Freyre explains that this action acknowledges that: ■ Congress was unable to agree on and pass a comprehensive immigration reform ■ These children were not responsible for the actions of their parents “By the time he issued this order, many of continued on page 5
Photo by Jason Pleitez
The apps to track menstrual cycles slide
Pleitez said. “It tells me how many calories I burned during the day.” The activity app will track walking, jogging, and running automatically and can pair with any Apple watch. “I use the MyFitnessPal pretty regularly now,” Managing Assistant Director of
lot,” Pleitez said. “They offer a lot, so you really don’t have to spend a dime.” Another category of health applications is for women’s health. A few applications to track women’s menstrual cycles are Flo, Cycles, Clue, and Ovia. “Menstrual cycles for women have continued on page 5
4 THE TOWER
February, 2021
Students offer perspective on COVID-19 vaccine By Davaughnia Wilson University students have differing opinions on the benefits, if any, of the COVID-19 vaccine, and most are torn between taking and not taking the vaccine when it becomes available to them. Some students announced that they
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Helmes mentioned that since only a few Americans have received a dosage of the vaccine it is hard to tell if it is successful. Many Americans believe that the vaccine has been rushed, but Helmes is confident that it has successfully passed all the tests and trials before it was announced to the public. “I got my first shot a few weeks ago,
EDITOR IN CHIEF: VALERIE SANABRIA NEWS EDITOR: CINDY LAZO FEATURES EDITOR: CHELSEY JAIPERSAUD SPORTS EDITOR: STEVEN MERRILL ONLINE EDITOR/ SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER: EMILY ROBLES
Photo by Kean University’s Instagram page
ONLINE EDITOR: LENNY MATA CUEVAS
Kean student giving an essential worker a dosage of the COVID-19 vaccine
are willing to take the vaccine to protect themselves and their loved ones. Others, however, are fully against it claiming that there isn’t much research on the long-term effects of the vaccine.
Moderna,” Maria Irvin, a Communication major, and social media manager for Kean TV said. “I did not feel anything, it was sore after, but I didn’t feel any side effects. I know some
REPORTERS ALEJANDRO ARCOS
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DORIAN ALERTE
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TIYE BRACY
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TYLER CLARK
ROSNEY HERRERA
CHRISTIAN GRULLON
DAVAUGHNIA WILSON
OPINION PIECES AND LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
The Tower welcomes guest columns and letters to the editor from any source. Such material should be submitted to thetower@kean.edu or left at The Tower’s offices. To verify sources of written material, submissions must include the writer’s name and contact information. Students should include their class (sophomore, graduate, etc.) and major. Faculty and staff should include campus title or position. On request, names may be withheld from publication if The Tower staff determines there is a legitimate reason to do so, but no anonymous letters will be accepted for publication. The Tower reserves the right to edit, and refuse publication of any submission.
Photo by Kean University’s Instagram page.
University Alumnus working at the COVID-19 lab
“In order to move forward and get back to a normal life, everyone needs to take it,” sophomore Mallory Helmes said. Roshorn Shivers Junior, President of
people got a fever.” As listed on the CDC’s website under, After Getting the Vaccine, common side effects include fever, chills, tiredness, headaches,
Black History Month: Meaning, Expectations, and Celebration continued from page 1
Photo by Kean University’s Instagram page.
University students wearing masks and social distancing
the Greek Senate, Kean Gospel Choir, and along with pain and swelling in the arm you treasurer for Friends for Children with received the vaccine. Cancer, stated that he won't be taking the Irvin indicated that she received her vaccine unless he is required to take it for vaccination at the RWJ Hospital due to graduate school. having a heart defect. “I feel like I’ve been “You don’t get a choice taking the natural on what shot you’re precautions to help me getting. I secretly wanted “In order from not contracting the Moderna,” Irvin said. to move forward virus,” Shivers said. According to the CDC, Shivers indicated that and get back to there are two authorized the vaccine has the correct and recommended a normal life, ingredients to prevent vaccines to prevent everyone needs citizens from contracting COVID-19, Moderna’s the virus. However, even COVID-19 vaccine, to take it.” after taking the vaccine, if and Pfizer-BioNTech citizens aren’t taking the COVID-19 vaccine. necessary precautions, “Due to the fact that they will still be at risk. there are many conditions The CDC advises that even after receiving that we as students might have that we might two doses of the vaccine, a mask should still not know about taking the vaccine might be worn, and social distancing is still highly affect that,” Shivers said. recommended to prevent the spread of With the pandemic, there are many useful COVID-19. resources students can utilize, such as people The CDC stated that they are currently from the medical field. Consulting a medical unaware if the COVID-19 vaccine will professional and asking questions is very prevent the spread of the virus that causes beneficial if students are unsure of how to other people to get COVID-19, even if the treat or prevent COVID-19, and to gain more vaccinated individual does not get sick. knowledge about the vaccine.
according to datausa.io represent 26.8% of Kean’s enrollment. Native Honduran Malcom Moreira, a Psychology major and president of the Pan African Union Student encourages Afro-Latinx groups to join the celebrations, research and be open minded about learning how black culture and history has shaped the community as well. “I am from a Latin American country but at the end of the day, I am still a black man, the only difference is I speak a different language.” Moreira said. Leonel Gomez, a writer for the online magazine dominicanosusa.org wrote in his article “Why Latinos Should Also Celebrate Black History Month that “We need to stop differentiating ourselves from the AfricanAmerican community… Black History Month is OUR month too; because black history is also OUR history.” Perhaps, thanks to movements like Black Live Matters, other groups and communities are also more interested in learning about Black History. Arts Professor Jacqueline Silberbush believes that education can help to break the cycle of misinformation. “I think people who may not have been as educated in Black History (current or past) are starting to become more aware. More people are willing to learn and are more interested in educating themselves,” Professor Silberbush said. Nevertheless, much more can be done to celebrate and seek for the true meaning of Black History Month, explained Dr. Conyers. “Black History Month is not something that we do once a year in February. Yes, Covid-19 has placed social restrictions on everyone.
White supremacy placed social restrictions on African (Black) people for centuries that reverberate to this day,” said Dr. Conyers. The Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion with student groups, organized almost two dozen virtual events. Whether it is a trivia night, a workshop or community services there is an activity for everyone who wishes to engage. Rho Zeta Chapter has Black History Jeopardy; is a game “to find out who really knows about some of the people that have impacted our [Black] culture.” According to the event’s description on Cougar link. Hubbard recommends Kean’s students to participate in events throughout the year as one of the main actions to keep the spirit of Black History Month. “Be active with the Black organizations / student groups that are virtually available throughout the semester.” Hubbard explained. Celebrating Black History Month requires action and compromise all year long. It is important for students keep the spirit and curiosity regardless of your cultural background. We hold the responsibility to not take for granted the richness of the Black culture. “We wouldn’t be able to do a lot of things if it wasn’t for the bravery of our ancestors, if they didn’t stand for a change there wouldn’t be a change,” Moreira said. “Black History Month challenges the myth of a people with a history. It is a primary factor in liberating the consciousness of Black people. Helps to give African people a sense of worth, dignity, and accomplishment.” Dr. Conyers said.
February, 2021
Phone Apps Tap Into Women's Heart Health
THE TOWER 5
RELATIONSHIPS
Coping With Heartbreak During Covid-19
continued from page 3
continued from page 1
Photo by Jason Pleitez
The homepage of the Wear Red: Phone Apps for Better Health event
everything to do with your whole body health,” Figueroa said. If there is a problem with a women’s menstrual cycle, it might be an underlying issue for something bigger that is going on. The last topic for health applications is for fasting. The highly rated fasting apps are Fastic, Window, InFasting, and Zero. “During fasting you can have things, you can drink water, black coffee, and tea,” Pleitez said. “Things that don’t have a calorie intake.”
“One in five Americans track their health through an application on their smartphone.”
Pleitez shared a success story of his lost weight journey. During the pandemic, he decided that he wanted to lose weight. He explained that he wasn’t eating healthy with no physical activity. His journey started in March 2020, where he weighed 220 pounds. By July, he accomplished his weight goal of 160 pounds using various health apps. “All of these apps cater to your specific needs and to what you want to do, to what your goal is,” Pleitez said.
New Information Regarding May 2021 Commencement continued from page 3
November until it was recently brought to her attention for this interview. “To be honest, I did not know we could get our pictures done for graduation until right now because the school did not say anything to me,” Flood said. “I believe that Kean University should contact and update students who are eligible to graduate and inform them of these types of special events like grad pictures sooner rather than later.” Recently, additional appointments were made for seniors to get their graduation pictures taken for the week of February 8. An email from KU Senior Events was sent to some students about the new dates. “I love that there is more information being
social interaction, which is probably why people might have even tried to look for a relationship this past year. “I think the desire for closeness is so much stronger for people now,” said Kean student Morgan Dietz, who is majoring in Psychology. Dietz understands the reason behind wanting to find a relationship during Covid because people have been stripped of relationships, but she wouldn’t advise anyone trying to date right now. “I just don’t think it’s worth it.” Dietz said. People often fall into the “talking stage” where they spend months getting to know a person and growing attached to them, only to have one of the two completely stop talking without any explanation. This is otherwise known as ghosting. Some people take it more personally than others, especially if it was their first real connection with someone. They might feel disrespected and frustrated after sharing so much of themselves. They might often wonder what they did wrong and feel a need for closure. According to Psychology Today, one of the most insidious aspects of ghosting is that it doesn’t just cause you to question the validity of the relationship you had, it causes you to question yourself.
“I don’t want to sound harsh at all, but I don’t know that anyone is necessarily entitled to closure,” Kean Psychology professor Becky Diaz said. Diaz further explained that closure for one person may be sitting down and doing an autopsy of the relationship and everything that went wrong. For another person that can feel stifling and overbearing she said. It is ok to not understand someone's choices and still respect them. That being said, sometimes it feels cruel and unjust to have someone just up and quit on you. It may even be a constant recurrence for that person and knowing that it was done to you just makes it even more difficult to deal with. “All humans have an inner critic and I think that someone blaming themselves can lead to that inner critic getting louder and causing real harm to the person’s self love and compassion,” Diaz said. Anyone who is in a similar situation or struggling to find themselves after feeling lost due to an unfortunate situation should recognize that their feelings are valid and how one feels does matter. “Your worth remains the same whether someone else acknowledges it or not,” Diaz said.
Dr. Repollet Viewed as a Role Model for Students of Color continued from page 1
released,” Dowbachuk said. “I’ve registered to get my pictures taken this time.” Dowbachuk had missed the first appointments in November but is happy the university added additional dates so she can get her picture taken. With the new information given to the graduating class, seniors are feeling a lot more confident with what’s coming in May. “I feel really relieved,” Dowbachuk said. “It took a while, but I’m hopeful now that the Class of 2021 will receive more information in a timely manner for us to celebrate our four years at Kean University.”
Biden’s DACA Extension Gives Dreamer Students Hope continued from page 3
the children brought over in the late 1990s and early 2000s were adults and trying to begin their working lives,” Argote-Freyre said. “DACA allowed them to apply for temporary status so they could obtain driver’s license and work permits” More than 650,000 undocumented immigrants are qualified for DACA, and Argote-Freyre estimates that there are 200 or more Kean students who are DACA recipients. Dreamers’ statuses and DACA itself were in jeopardy under the previous administration. President Donald Trump looked to fulfill one of his immigration policy promises of eliminating the program but attempts to suspend DACA were blocked in court. “He was unsuccessful, but in the process,
some folks were prevented from applying and that left them vulnerable to deportation.” Argote-Freyre said, “Trump's legal challenges to the program left DACA recipients in limbo, fearing for their futures. It was a cruel four years for them under Trump.” The news was met with positive reactions from immigration advocates and DACA recipients, including some from the Kean community. “It hasn’t impacted me just yet because I renewed it recently but I’m sure it’s going to be very beneficial for me in the future and for hundreds of other students,” Angie Benitez, a third year Biology student, said. “I’m certainly more hopeful about Dreamers being able to obtain citizenship under this new administration.”
Photo by Molly Adams licensed under CC BY 2.0
’Defend DACA’
Photo by Kean Website
Lamont Repollet, E.d.D.
a historically Black research university, however, his family could not afford the tuition and he earned his bachelor’s degree in communication from The College of New Jersey, and climbed higher since. He then went on to complete his masters in Educational Administration at Kean University, and his Doctorate in Educational Leadership at Nova Southeastern University. Dr. Repollet described his family and his faith as some of his biggest inspirations, but most importantly he worked to inspire himself to reach his goals. “Growing up I had mentors, but as I got older, I had to learn to be my own inspiration,” Dr. Repollet said. “I have definitely exceeded my own expectations with how far I have come. I just knew that I couldn’t give up. I want students to know that anything is possible as long as they don’t give up.” During Black History Month, Dr. Repollet suggests that students really study and get to know their history. “Our ancestors have survived centuries
of oppression and never gave up no matter how bleak the situation looked,” Dr. Repollet said. “Ask yourself how you will honor their sacrifices and never give up.” Over the next five years, Dr. Repollet hopes to create an environment at Kean that makes everyone want to enroll. He wants everyone to get a taste of the university’s “secret sauce.” Among other goals, Dr. Repollet plans to take Kean to new heights and make it the next research institution in the state. In the next five years, he wants to show Black and brown men and women, and boys and girls, that they can achieve their goals, and that they can also have a seat at the table despite the color of their skin. “Not only will we have the most diverse student population, but we will take pride in it and exemplify equity,” Dr. Repollet said. “Kean University will be a safe space for all students, faculty and staff. It is my pleasure to lead this institution into even more greatness.”
February, 2021
SPORTS
6 THE TOWER
Cougar football getting ready for a spring season By Layla Lusby After playing their last game in November of 2019, Kean’s football team is getting ready to take the field. The team was set to open
whole team felt the same way. I understand there are precautions that need to be taken but it was hard for me to watch Division I teams play and I wasn’t able to play my senior year of college.” The Cougars have not played a game in fifteen months. Despite practicing, doing drills, working out during the offseason, this will be the first time the team will be together for an actual game. As of now there is no set football schedule, due to the
“I'm truly excited to get back there on the field,” Taylor said. “Having fun and doing what I do with my brothers is what I’m looking forward to. We’ve prepared physically and mentally these last few months just in case we received the opportunity to play again.” Garrett took the time to reflect on what it took to get the
“Having fun and doing what I do with my brothers is what I’m looking forward to. We’ve prepared physically and mentally these last few months just in case we received the opportunity to play again” Photo by KeanAthletics.com
Photo by KeanAthletics.com
Quarterback Tyrae Taylor tries to throw a pass down field
the 2020 season on Sept. 4 at Delaware Valley University. However with the Covid-19 pandemic, the New Jersey Athletic Conference felt as though it was not safe to compete and the season was cancelled. “I felt devastated going into the fall semester with no football,” senior quarterback Tyrae Taylor said. “Being around my teammates and coaches was motivation to get better day by day. When we got the news in the summer, not only did I feel devastated but the
Kean Football head coach Dan Garrett
conference having an opt out date of Feb. 15. It is expected that the Cougars will be taking the field this spring. Due to the pandemic, there are many precautions that need to be taken to keep the season running smoothly. Each player has to have weekly mandatory testing, daily temperature scans, and disinfectant is used to wipe down helmets, pads and footballs after practice sessions. “Our President, Dr. Repollett was a major driving force behind giving our Student Athletes an opportunity this spring,” head coach Dan Garrett said. “I am grateful and extremely appreciative to have the opportunity to be coaching my team, but it was not my doing. The inspiration was driven by the Presidents of our NJAC conference.” Kean’s quarterback can’t wait to step on the gridiron with his teammates after a long pause of playing football.
program back together safely and prepare for a season in the middle of a pandemic. “Appreciation is the word that I would use,” said Garrett. “We are all very appreciative to be back doing what we love to do. I think our guys have done a great job with making some necessary sacrifices in order to even get to this point. The ability to make responsible decisions in order to be able to get together and have the opportunity to even practice their sport and modify some of their daily actions and habits.” The football program must adhere to the “Cougar Pledge”, where they cannot have parties or attend large gatherings, need to wear a mask, and wash their hands. The players know they have to comply with these measures if they want to have a season in 2021.
Kean Baseball preps for action after canceled season By Ruben Nieves
looks to prep his pitchers for the season’s start in April. “We’re not going to have the same luxury of hitting the ground running like we normally have, but at the same time we have so much time from now to when the season starts,”
appearances in 2020, had two wins with six strikeouts, is excited for a new season and looks to give his very best this season. “Having a season feels great, especially after what happened last year,” Kiernan said. “I’m looking to give my best every time I’m on the
A successful Kean Baseball team will be returning for a 2021 season after Covid 19 shut them down last spring when their record was 8-2 and it looked like they were potentially on the way to the playoffs. Head coach Neil Ioviero will be prepping his team for a later start compared to when they usually begin in February. “We have our conference schedule that we believe we’re going to play, and the athletic directors will be meeting to decide an exact date and how many games,” Ioviero said. “It will be somewhere around April.” Junior catcher Joshua Jackson was batting .333 seven games Josh Jackson waits for the pitch into the 2020 season when it got canceled. He is hopeful for what is to come in 2021. “It feels good to have a season this year, last year our season got cut short and we were playing really good ball,” Jackson said. “I’m glad we’re finally able to finish what we started by preparing ourselves for Photo by Collin Kiernan Photo by Kean Athletics Collin Kiernan winds up to throw Kean’s baseball coach Neil Ioviero a national championship.” Jackson, a junior catcher, who before the season was cancelled, batted .333 Ioviero said. “We feel we can go at a slower pace mound.” in seven games in 2020. Jackson is looking to and still get them where they need to be.” With a new season comes a new field, as the play in many games as possible this season. Despite being inactive for almost a year, team will be playing on new turf in 2021. “I want to be able to play in as many games Collin Kiernan has been staying in shape for “We changed the color of the infield, before it as possible this year,” Jackson said. “Another the season start. was a reddish color, now it’s chocolate brown,” “I have been trying to stay in shape by using Ioviero said. “It really mimics a dirt field when big goal for me is to win a gold glove behind the indoor facilities to keep my arm mobile, as well it’s wet, and the mound and the plate will be dish, but most importantly I want to avoid any as spending a lot of time in the gym helping turf completely and so is the bullpen.” injuries that may cause setbacks.” with strength and flexibility,” Kiernan said. With the new season, comes the same With the season being cancelled and pitchers Kiernan, a junior pitcher who in three expectations for the baseball program. being inactive for such a long time, Ioviero
“For this season, our expectations are high . It is hard to expect anything other than a national championship,” Jackson said. “Every day we step on the field we’re playing for our guy Jack Nagy who passed. We expect to be the best team every time we are out there playing.” Nagy, who passed away in 2019 was the catcher’s coach on Ioviero’s staff. Kiernan, along with the rest of his team, will be playing with a chip on his shoulder after the cancellation of the 2020 season. “As a team we all have had our eyes on one thing and that’s the Photo by Josh Jackson National Championship after getting last year’s run stripped from us,” said Kiernan. “We all have had a chip on our shoulder. Not playing last year lights a fire under us to get going.” With his team being ranked #4 in the country in Division III, Ioviero expects his team to be able to get back together while following safety protocols and hopes his team can compete for a championship. “The expectation is to get these kids back and get them acclimated with each other, that’s what’s most important,” Ioviero said. “We always say if they’re having a Regional and a World Series, we’re hoping to compete and give ourselves a chance to win.”
“As a team we all have had our eyes on one thing and that’s the National Championship”
Former international basketball pro becomes new coordinator of athletic operations
By Dorian Alerte
The Kean Athletics community has continued to see change going into the Spring 2021 semester. Paul Williams has been hired as the Coordinator of Athletic Operations, Director of Athletics Kelly Williams announced on Dec. 21. This new role includes managing setup and breakdown of all varsity games, events, camps and clinics on campus, as well as preparing equipment and uniforms for game day staff. “Right now, I’m just helping wherever is needed,” Paul Williams said. “Normally we’d have a lot of student workers, so usually I’d be supervising them, but because of COVID they’re not allowed to be working, so right now I’m just helping out wherever is needed.” Williams brings into this role several years of college and professional basketball playing experience. Williams previously played college basketball at St. Bonaventure University, as
well as professionally overseas in England, Spain, Vietnam, and Japan. “I graduated high school from St. Patrick’s in ’02 and was fortunate enough to get a Division I scholarship…” Williams said. “I played in Spain for three years... Up until that moment, I had really only been on the East Coast, but to be able to go halfway across the world, meet different people, hear different languages, that was really awesome.” After his time in Spain and two years in England, Williams also played basketball for four years in Japan. “I played in Japan for four years, and that was probably my favorite destination just because the people and the
“I want to be that type of outlet for these students so that they can come and chop it up with me, and we can talk about basketball or it could be about life.”
Photo by KeanAthletics.com
Paul Williams was named Coordinator of Athletic Operations on Dec. 21, 2020
culture are really awesome,” Williams said. He plans to bring the lessons that he learned playing professionally to his new role in the athletic department. “I mainly just want to be a good person that they can come to, that can give advice,” Williams said, adding that he was a student athlete for four years. “...if they want to take their talents to the next level or not, I want to be that type of outlet for these students so that they can come and chop it up with me, and we can talk about basketball or it could be about life.” Williams is bringing a level of positivity and excitement into his new role, and is willing to help in any way that he can. “I’m just looking forward to the university growing,” Williams said. “I know that hearing President Repollet talk, and his vision for all of the programs is great to hear and I’m just happy and grateful to be a part of it. I just want to contribute any way I can.”