The Tower - The Independent Voice Of Kean University - March 2023 Issue

Inflation causes concern for Kean students

By Adaora Nnakwe

The rising cost of living has put students on a tight budget towards their spending habits while maintaining essential expenses like groceries and gas.

While prices continue to rise, students are focusing on what they need first before buying unnecessary goods like clothing, buying coffee and eating off campus that result in overspending. Students may find themselves in unpredictable financial situations when adjusting to the rising cost of goods and services.

Jordan Belle, a junior communication media and film major at Kean, has concerns on the impact of inflation and budgeting to make ends meet.

“Inflation has impacted me in buying my essentials like

food and toilet paper,” Belle said.“I budget my money and I try my best especially when I know what things I have to buy or pay for during the week.”

Even with students budgeting their money on a weekly

Former Three-time NFL Cheerleader and Kean student dominates

By Davaughnia Wilson

Social media and a quick impulsive decision opened the doors to amazing opportunities and taught one Kean University student the importance of resilience, passion, and power and ultimately being named a rookie candidate for the NY Jets Flight Crew.

Megan Braine, a senior majoring in Elementary Education with a TSD in Special Education and also a former three-time NFL cheerleader, auditioned for the team spontaneously in 2019 and was featured in the audition series “Making the Squad” on the team’s YouTube channel.

“I cheered for the New York Jets for three incredible seasons,” Braine said. “Dancing at Metlife Stadium for New York's favorite NFL team was truly a pinch-me moment. Wearing the signature uniform will forever hold a special place in my heart and symbolize the dedication I put into that job as a

By Isabelle Guthrie

basis, they are finding it hard to pay for important things.

Whitney Ogara, a junior psychology major, feels like the cost of living is too expensive to save and budget at the same time while going to school.

“I have felt impacted by inflation. Everything from food to school supplies has been getting more and more expensive,” Ogara said.“Things that we need to live by day to day are slowly becoming more and more inaccessible.”

Ogara said she is worried that essential products will continue to be more expensive, making it difficult to manage the cost of living.

“Eggs, menstrual products, and textbooks are some of the things that cost the most for me right now,” Ogara said. “Honestly, I’ll try to put money aside for essentials but other

continued on page 10

The Kean Blue Diamonds, the name that rang through the minds, heart and soul of three then freshmen female students and many alike is currently an untold mystery.

The Kean Blue Diamonds was a newly recognized student group that had high hopes of becoming a cheerleading team. They were faced with defeat shortly after as they were informed they could not be a cheer team nor could they refer to themselves as such. They had to settle for being a spirit squad.

That was not their end goal and the group slowly separated. There has not been talk about establishing a new team and the Kean Blue Diamonds are no more. After checking Cougar Link, Kean Blue Diamond’s advisor is no longer advising the group and did not wish to comment. Their roster has only one member.

The students who created the club were Rayvin Jordan, Alyzae Coleman, and Taniyah continued on page 8

continued on page 9

Photo by Isabelle Guthrie We Got Spirit, How About You?

Photo by Amanda Stevens Photography Megan Braine NFL performance

Photo by Kean Instagram page @keanuniversity

Student shopping at Kean bookstore

Photo by Kean Instagram page @keanuniversity

Student shopping at Kean bookstore

International Women’s Day: Herstory

By Josephine Carrillo

Every year, most nations, if not all, celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8, to commemorate, honor and show their respect to all individuals that identify as women, all over the world.

According to History’s article written by Sarah Pruitt, the first country to ever celebrate women throughout history was the United States. Back in 1909, thousands of people gathered together in New York City on Sunday Feb. 28, so that all women, including those who worked at the time, could participate in the march.

These women and their supporters only asked for equality in the workplace, shorter working hours, better pay and most importantly, the right to vote.

They wanted the right to be a part of and to be involved with their country’s politics and the right to vote for those who will represent them and will make decisions regarding their well being. ;

Dr. Consuelo Bonillas, coordinator of Women’s &

Gender Studies at Kean, expressed the importance of women having the right to vote in elections.

“Being given the right to vote in elections, be it local or national, has provided [some] women the opportunity for their needs to be heard and met,” Bonillas said. “Being

Day is something that needs to be achieved by women worldwide, citing the importance of getting pregnant and difficulties with abortion to back up her point.

Bonillas also added that women struggle with undercompensation at work, harassment at work or in their communities, unsafe working conditions, and having to pay taxes on menstrual products or not having access to such.

While thousands were gathered in New York City to protest in 1909, other groups of women and supporters of the cause went to Brooklyn, where Charlotte Perkins Gilman, a famous American writer, philosopher, and social reformer, happened to be giving a speech to her audience.

Gilman was someone who firmly believed that women could be independent and empowered them in most of her novels.

allowed to run for office to help structure laws that can give women access to various support and resources.”

Bonillas also highlighted that International Women’s

Gilman told the Parkside Congregation in 1909, “It is true that a woman’s duty is centered in her home and

continued on page 8

How professors spend spring break

By Steven-Ross Bugayong

When it comes to Spring Break, some students plan to vacation, hang out with friends or relax. For others, it means a week's getaway from the daily responsibility of schoolwork.

At Kean, the 2023 spring break from Mar. 6-12 brings a sigh of relief to students and staff as the semester hits the midway point.

There have been conversations about students traveling out of state and out of the country, students going back home to their family and friends, or even traveling to Atlantic City.

What’s hardly talked about, though, is what does the faculty do during Spring Break? Will they join the student's sentiments of enjoying the week off, or are they doing something completely different

and possibly boring?

Suzanne Schwab, a communication professor who's been teaching at Kean for 10 years, says spring break is a time to refresh and reflect.

“I'm using this spring break to prepare for the rest of the semester while also working

Carolina,” Guitar said. “However, I will still be working on my commute grading papers, but I will have some family time—worky work busy bee."

Meanwhile, Professor Courtney Atkins hopes to follow Dr. Guitars' sentiment while balancing their obligations as professors

St. Patrick's Day parade events.”

Atkins said she plans to visit her favorite bakery for St. Joseph pastries, a seasonal treat that is available in March.

“They were my Grandma's favorite, and I like to celebrate her memory this time of year,” Atkins said. “She always said the saying, 'March rolls in like a lion and goes out like a lamb.’"

Unlike some of the tenured professors here at Kean, some adjunct professors will spend the spring break teaching at other schools while keeping up with the theme of grading schoolwork.

on the new sport's minor that will be available soon to students at Kean," Schwab said.

Dr. Joshua Guitar, a communication professor who is in his second semester at Kean, is taking a family trip for spring break.

"I'm going on a family trip to North

and enjoying their breaks by attending some of the St. Patrick's Day events.

“I'll spend Spring Break grading assignments, reviewing honors society applications, and planning for upcoming registration," Atkins said. "On the weekends, I plan to attend some local town

Dan Bergsagel, an adjunct professor, who has been teaching at the Michael Graves College of Design for almost two years, says he is using the spring break to work his other jobs.

continued on page 10

“In a sick society, women who have difficulty fitting in are not ill but demonstrating a healthy and positive response.”

Photo by Josephine Carrillo International Women’s Day, March 8th 2023

Photo by Josephine Carrillo Happy International Women’s Day, 2023

Photo by Kean University’s website kean.edu Kean psychology class

Photo by Kean University’s website kean.edu Professor Courtney Atkins

Photo by Kean University’s website kean.edu Communication students meet with professionals from Coyne PR

Black History Month Speaker Explains Racial Trauma

By Davaughnia Wilson

Repeated exposure to images and stories of racial violence can leave people of color, especially Black people, with racial trauma that can affect physical, emotional and psychological functioning, according to an expert on the topic.

In a talk called “Resilience in Times of Profound Racial Trauma,” Jennifer R. Jones-Damis, Psy.D., LPC., director of counseling, and psychiatric services at Rutgers University spoke at Kean as part of the Office of Africana Studies celebration of Black History Month. This year’s celebration themed “Exploring Black Resistance,” honed in on racism and racial trauma and explored how African Americans have resisted ongoing oppression in all forms.

Jones-Damis said understanding the difference between a traumatic experience and a racially traumatic experience is essential.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition (DSM-5) trauma is, “any experience that you have with actual or threatened death, serious injury or sexual violation.”

Hearing details over and over again regarding traumatizing events can indeed make you traumatized. Community violence and victimization can also cause severe trauma.

“Racial trauma is the stressful impact or emotional pain

of your experience with racism, discrimination and racial violence,” Jones-Damis said. “You can directly experience it, so it can happen to you; you can witness it happening to someone else, and where a lot of us fall, is repeated exposure to details of a racially traumatic event.”

Just seeing racial trauma on the news, on social media, and watching videos can cause someone to become

traumatized. That is, vicarious racial trauma, experiencing racial trauma indirectly in media outlets.

Seeing racism more, day by day, and talking about it more also has a strong impact. Seeing it in realtime, according to Jones-Damis, shows how impactful vicarious racial trauma can be.

Vicarious racial trauma is very different for people of color and Black people in general. As Black individuals, watching another Black person get hurt directly in front of you is a different level of trauma.

“The fear of ‘that could’ve been me’ is different,” Jones-Damis said.

Kalasia S. Ojeh, Ph.D., assistant professor in the school of social sciences at Kean, was in attendance and voiced her experience with vicarious racial trauma when Breonna Taylor was murdered. She said she did not know about Taylor’s death until two months later because news outlets in that area weren’t reporting Taylor’s death massively.

Ojeh said as a Black woman, she felt uncomfortable when she finally heard of Taylor’s death and when it started to dominate news outlets. For two months she was unaware of Taylor’s brutal murder. For two months, she was living unaware.

She didn’t know it at the time but the discussion allowed her to reflect and acknowledge that she was indeed traumatized. She experienced the trauma vicariously through the media, thinking that could have

continued on page 15

Presidential Excellence Award for Teaching Awarded to Dr. Fred Fitch

By Ridimerb Diaz-Ramirez

Few professors are nominated for the prestigious Presidential Excellence Award for Teaching, but only one is chosen each year.

This 2022-23 school year, Dr. Fred Fitch, professor in the Department of Communication, Media & Journalism, was given the award to acknowledge the outstanding achievements in his teaching area.

“There are many, many great teachers

at Kean, so it was kind of humbling and thrilling all at the same time,” Fitch said.

”It was humbling because there are many many worthy professors at Kean who have accomplished probably more than I have and are equally meritorious of that award.”

The process of obtaining this award consists of being nominated by a fellow faculty member, who has to then write an essay as to why they choose the nominee. A committee will then review all submissions and decide who will be

selected among the nominees being brought forward.

Once the nominees are announced, the nominees themself must submit an essay elaborating on why they think they deserve the award, their resume, and a list of accomplishments of what they have done for the university.

“Wonderfully gratifying” is how he described what this award meant to him.

“Teaching is not a job, it is a vocation, and when you work in your vocation you don't expect to receive awards because you shouldn't expect to receive awards so it is a nice surprise,” Fitch said.

Born in Plattsburgh, New York, but raised in Wilmore, Kentucky, Fitch received his B.A. in English/Speech

secondary education at Asbury College, Masters of Divinity from Asbury

continued on page 11

“Racial trauma is the stressful impact or emotional pain of your experience with racism, discrimination and racial violence.”

“I love the students. I mean the best teachers are the best learners.”

Photo by Davaughnia Wilson

Program Booklet

Photo by Davaughnia Wilson

Africana Studies display

Photo by Jerry Sullivan

Three great honorable figures

Kean Announces Travelearn Trips for Spring 2023 and Summer 2023 Semesters

By Tyra Watts

Kean University’s Center for International Studies has four Travelearn trips for the Spring 2023 semester and two Travelearn trips for the Summer 2023 semester.

Travelearn is Kean’s short-term study abroad program. It is where students can pursue their degrees while traveling to various parts of the world to learn about a specific topic. Students of all majors can apply to take part in Travelearn led by Kean faculty.

According to the Kean University website, the Spring 2023 Travelearn trips are in Spain from March 3-10, the U.S.Mexico border from March 6-11, Ireland from March 3-10, and Costa Rica from March 4-10.

Meanwhile, on the CougarLink site, the Summer 2023 Travelearn trips are in Ireland and Scotland from May 22-30 and London from May 21-23.

According to Jessica Barzilay, director of the Center for International Studies, Travelearn can benefit students because it can broaden their horizons. Not only that but when seeing how things are done in certain places and working with people from different countries gives you a bigger perspective.

Barzilay provided an example of this by explaining how students were able to go on a trip to South Korea last summer, and they did not know what to expect. The students ended up loving the culture, people, and atmosphere, and now some of those students want to go back and live in South Korea and teach for a year, which was something that Barzilay did not expect.

Barzilay then went on to say that Travelearn not only shows us what other places look like, and how other people think, but she strongly believes that it changes the way we think about ourselves.

“You have to be a little bold, you know, to go abroad with strangers to a place you don’t know,” Barzilay said. “And people come back feeling, ‘I did that, you know, who knows what I might do next’.”

She also adds that Travelearn looks good to employers on resumes and is very helpful for employability. With the way the curriculum is structured for students to learn within 5 to 7 days, Barzilay states that it is a little different, with some of the Travelearns being 1 to 3 credits, while others are paired with a course currently here at Kean.

Barzilay provided an example by explaining how she is taking the students on the Costa Rica Travelearn for the first time as a professor, and it is only two credits.

“We have certain lectures beforehand, and we have a book we’re reading together,” Barzilay said. “And then when we go aboard, I work with the providers to have them include lectures that go towards that curriculum.”

Overall, most of the learning takes place before students go on the Travelearn.

Barzilay also adds that every professor handles it differently and that her Travelearn is a give-back abroad internship where students will be logging in on how what they’re doing impacts their careers.

A Call For Action In Climate Change Has Begun

By Keyon Gardner

Temperatures today have risen beyond normal for the past decade and can be deemed the most unprecedented change ever in human history. Scientists have been able to retrieve temperature data

ice sheets.

“This reconstruction suggests that current temperatures are unprecedented in 24,000 years, and also suggests that the speed of human-caused global warming is faster than anything we’ve seen in that same time,” Jessica Tierney, author and

how doing good can be good business,”

from marine sediments and computer simulations of climate change that can reconstruct surface temperatures of the past.

Kean’s Department of Environment and Sustainability Sciences (DESS) created a Coastal Team to study and propose solutions to challenges stemming from climate change. This proposal goes hand in hand with Kean’s mission as an urban research University.

Students at Kean Union are working on a project in Keyport, Raritan Bay, and Monmouth County to find solutions to the effects that the earth faces from climate change.

A study led by the University of Arizona and the University of Washington coauthors Matthew Osman, Gregory Hakim, and Robert Tardiff has developed and used a technique for reconstructing temperatures in the last 24 thousand years. Reports from this study verify that the major driving impact of climate change is the rise in greenhouse gas concentrations and melting

associate professor at the University of Arizona said.

Kean’s Assistant Professor Jun Cheng, Ph.D. from the Department of Environmental & Sustainability Sciences is currently leading the research that is tackling the problems associated with coastal erosion on Union and Keyport beaches.

Cheng's expertise in sediment dynamics and coastal geology works hand in hand with helping the coastal team at Kean University mitigate beach erosion.

“My specific goal is to protect our shores and to come up with the best solution to shore protection,” Cheng said.

The University has given the coastal team a handful of tools and equipment to help solve this problem.

“Students are getting a lot of on-field experience and use of equipment to help prepare them for coastal protection jobs,” Cheng said.

“The point of the class is bringing your values into any business that you do, like

Photo by Dan Kitwood/Getty Images

Global Climate Strike

Photo by Dallas Ragusa professor measures sand erosion along Keyport coastal line

Photo by June Cheng student measuring sand erosion along Keyport coastal line

Photo by Kean University Kean University’s Spring 23 Travelearns

Photo by Kean University

Wenzhou-Kean University Flyer

The SGA’s Presence at Kean Ocean

By Elaine Amico

Kean Ocean students feel frustrated by the lack of services provided on the Ocean campus, on behalf of the Student Government Association.

The vision of Kean’s SGA, as stated on the university's website, is to, “provide and develop quality services to all Kean University campuses incorporating leadership opportunities, professional and personal development, and diversified programming.”

Many Kean Ocean students feel that Kean’s SGA is not practicing that vision enough around their campus.

Aimee Plummer, senior psychology major, and Student Government Vice President of Kean Ocean for the Student Government Association said she understands the frustration, but is currently pushing for students to get involved.

“The Union campus is larger with more of a SGA presence. I would suggest students follow the @keansga Instagram, and ask questions about getting involved,”

OPINION

By Davaughnia Wilson

Plummer said. “It is important to me that students have a good experience on our campus, and the more involvement we have, the more we can offer students.”

Kean’s SGA is shared by all its campuses and many Kean Ocean students feel that sharing the association leaves Kean Ocean with fewer opportunities,

especially since it’s a smaller campus.

“I was unaware that we even had a SGA on the Ocean campus,” Megan Vankersen, senior elementary education major said. “I know that I would definitely be interested and participate in events if there were any, but it feels like we get opportunities taken away from our campus due to our

low enrollment.”

SGA recently announced that they would be hosting a trip to New York City to see the Broadway Musical Six. The association held a similar event during the fall semester of 2021, to see The Radio City Rockettes.

“I have asked students what they have enjoyed or have wanted to see on our campus,” Plummer said. “This has led to an upcoming bus trip to see the musical Six on Broadway, and ticket sales are limited exclusively to Kean Ocean students for the first two weeks.”

Students on the Ocean campus are looking forward to this trip. They are also allowed to bring along one family member or friend to join them on the trip, for an additional cost.

“I’m beyond excited for this opportunity to be included specifically on our campus,” said Grace Cooper, a senior psychology major said. “It’s hard to feel a part of Kean Union, when we don’t necessarily get the same opportunities and events that they do.”

Academic Dismissal Notice Sent in Error

study at Kean University.”

Pride. That’s what I feel every day as I commute to Kean University. Knowing that I have accomplished much more than I could ever imagine and that I have been a stellar student.

That pride was replaced by fear for just a split second when I received an email from the Dean’s Office, College of Liberal Arts. In the subject line, there it was, “academic dismissal update.”

The email sent on Feb. 9, stated that after reviewing my latest academic record, it indicated that I have not maintained “the standards of academic performance necessary to continue

That for me was hilarious. I just shrugged.

I have maintained a stellar GPA while studying at Kean while taking five or six classes each semester ending with a 4.00 or a 3.86. My current cumulative GPA is 3.94 so I knew it was impossible for me to be dismissed for not meeting academic requirements.

I knew that the email was sent to me by error but it was startling nonetheless.

My time at Kean University is coming to an end and that email allowed me to reflect on the last four years and the sacrifices that I have made to accomplish my goals in and outside of

the classroom.

I recall the fall semester of my freshman year in 2019 I would stay

continued on page 8

up until 3 a.m. sometimes 4 a.m. studying and completing assignments so I wouldn’t fall behind. I ended the semester with a 4.0 and a letter from the Dean’s office stating that I made the Dean’s List.

That was a huge accomplishment for me and I made it my mission that every semester I would get that letter. And at the end of every semester, just like clockwork, I got it.

Less than a month into my final semester at Kean, and just eight days after being appointed to the Dean’s List I was hit with a dismissal notice.

I was startled and blinded by the “academic dismissal update” that I overlooked all the errors in the email.

The first one was the subject line, “College of Business and Public Administration Academic Dismissal Update” and the second was the date the email was addressed, “June 22, 2022.”

I think it's fair to say that once you see the words “academic dismissal” you start to worry and forget to pay close

Less than a month into my final semester at Kean, and just eight days after being appointed to the Dean’s List I was hit with a dismissal notice.

Photo by Email sent by Dr. Jin

Email sent by cla@kean.edu

Photo by @keanocean_campuslife instagram Dessert Day Bonding at Kean Ocean

Photo by @keanocean_campuslife instagram

Dessert Day at Kean Ocean

The Iced Coffee Culture

By Yibing Liu

A Chinese girl wearing two layers of "autumn jeans" and holding a thermos in her sleeve so as not to touch the cold metal layer escaped into the warm building when the wind blew. On the other side of the road, a tall athlete in shorts and stockings wandered the road with a cold Starbucks with foam above it.

Cultural differences are shown vividly in many areas in real life. People's behavior is so diverse, it sometimes looks like the exact opposite. For example, the choices of beverage temperatures for cultural groups are different.

Some Chinese girls are surprised by iced beverages that exist in winter, which are influenced by their cultural background for a long time. And some Americans are more used to drinking cold water even outside in the winter.

With more and more students studying on campus, some cultural differences are more obvious than before. No matter how different people are, respect and harmony are the most important in interpersonal communication diversity.

Lots of American students carry the

iced beverage to classes even in cold weather. People are more used to coffee with ice and rely on it to make them excited at the beginning of the day. They store some purified water in the fridge in their daily life and order some water with ice in restaurants.

According to The New York Times, the founder of Starbucks said cold beverages helped them earn 75 percent off beverage sales this season. With increasingly

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: DAVAUGHNIA WILSON

MANAGING EDITOR: DORIAN ALERTE

NEWS EDITOR: TYRA WATTS

FEATURES EDITOR: ELAINE AMICO

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difficult work tasks and the habit of customizing drinks, more and more people choose iced drinks more of the time. Energy and power are significant tools in work and schools.

On the contrary, most Chinese students rely on hot water sometimes. Kettles keep them alive. “A bottle of hot water can cure 90 percent of uncomfortableness, just drink it!” the old saying said.

Some people believe that hot water can warm your body and keep you more active in some bad weather and they used to drink warm water in summer.

“My grandma will fly to America if she knows I drink this iced coffee brew now!” Slade Yang said while she shook her Starbucks. n

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ANTHONY REYNA

KEYON GARDNER

JA'BRIA LASTER

STEVEN-ROSS BUGAYONG

WAYNE DAWES

JUSTIN MCDANIEL

JOSEPHINE CARRILLO

ADAORA NNAKWE

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YIBING LIU (AMY)

ITANA RABRUN

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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.

“My grandma will fly to America if she knows I drink this iced coffee brew now!”

Slade Yang said while she shook her Starbucks.

Photo by Lois DeSocio

Iced and hot coffee

Kean Vogue and NCNW to host Fashion Show

By Justin McDaniel

There have been talks about a fashion show at Kean University for over a year and this semester two organizations have joined forces to make it happen.

In January 2022, The National Council of Negro Women Incorporated, Kean University Section posted a casting call on their Instagram page stating that they will be hosting a fashion show in February 2022. However, the event was later canceled.

Kean Vogue was later established in March 2022 by Oyebola Falode and promised a fashion show along with other fashion-oriented workshops and events to its members and the Kean community at large.

The two organizations decided to collaborate in Spring 2023 and host what most anticipate to be one of the biggest events at Kean for the spring semester.

Kean students have always had the best fashion. They have been versatile with their style and how they express that through their different cultures, beliefs and overall preference. Kean Vogue and NCNW are doing what they can to showcase this versatility.

Julia Obiri-Yeboah a senior and NCNW Historian said,

“with the help of Erin and her team from the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, the event is scheduled for April 28 in Downs Hall. Currently, we don't have a

their goal as a club mixed with fashion to create a fun engaging event.”

The goal is to get as many students as possible to engage in a fun event while highlighting different cultures. Kean University is a melting pot of people with diverse backgrounds and ethnicities, and what better way to highlight that than with a fashion show.

The casting call was mainly for Kean students to come out and learn more about the event, and the organizations hosting the event.

name for it, but we're definitely open to suggestions.”

The week of Feb. 20, Kean Vogue hosted three casting calls to get students involved in the event. Multiple students attended the casting call showcasing their walk down the runway and other talents.

“For the casting call, we’re working with NCNW who initiated the idea,” Kendallee Anyosa a member of the KeanVogue Eboard said. “We’re really just embracing

“To prepare for this event, it is also essential for us to meet people who would like to be in the Fashion show and get to know them.” Julia ObiriYeborah said.

Having done events together in the past the NCNW and KeanVogue are very familiar with each other. in November 2022, Kean Vouge co-hosted an event organized by NCNW, the 2000's Cookout part two. The organizations hope to strengthen their ties and continue working together in the future. n

Anime Club sponsors “Letter to Sensei”

By Yibing Liu

Kean’s Anime Society provided students with colorful papers and pens to express appreciation to their professors at its “Letters to Sensei” event.

The event, hosted in the Miron Student Center on Feb.17, allowed students to emphasize and highlight the admiration and respect they have for their professors dedication to students and their academics and faculty and staff for their hard work.

Attendees could sign the letters anonymously or they could sign with their names. Members of the Anime Society would then deliver the letters directly to each professor, faculty and staff member.

“We want to do a little bit to show appreciation to some professors, staff, and faculties here …we want to give back to say thank you to show our gratitude,” said Mallissa Wright, a junior majoring in communication and Kean Anime Society vice president.

Though it rained heavily outside the MSC and there was minimal traffic in the atrium, she was very enthusiastic and actively introduced the various materials of the event.

Some students forget to convey their appreciation unconsciously and some students are too shy to express their emotions face-to-face to faculties. The event gave students like Yiming Cui, a junior majoring in Mathematics, valuable chances.

“I saw the big flyer there and I remembered that I had a sweet professor last semester, I really appreciate his care,” Cui said.

Olivia Cornwell, Anime Club president and a senior majoring in Communication, said her communication professors are supportive and act like her parents supporting her and assisting her with her academics.

“The nicest and sweetest thing is to see they are open up to how many professors and to see how long letters are, how kind they are,” Cornwell said. “Because we don't really say upfront, ‘I appreciate you,’ so give them backup opportunities to do so even if they don’t want to write their names.”

The heavy rain outside gradually stopped, but the appreciation for the faculty and staff will continue. n

“With the help from The Office of Diversity Equity and Inclusion, the event is scheduled for April 28 in Downs Hall”

“We want to do a little bit to show appreciation to some professors, staff, and faculties here.”

Photo by KeanVogue Instagram KeanVogue Casting Call

Photo by KeanVogue Instagram

Some of the KeanVogue team

Photo by Yibing Liu

Decoration in the event

International Women’s Day: Herstory

continued from page 2

continued from cover motherhood…[but] home should mean the whole country, and not be confined to three or four rooms or a city or a state.”

Two of Gilman’s novels that radically changed the mindset of women, and were a wake up call for all, according to History of Women, Philosophers and Scientists; were Women in Economics (1898), which incited women to be economically independent, and last but not least, Herland (1915), which was based on a fictional all women world and what it would be like to live in such a world.

However, it was not until 1975 that the subject of International Women's Day was discussed in an assembly of the United Nations, where it was accepted by all nations, as a worldwide holiday.

In the Yearbook of the United Nations, Chapter 26, Section 2: Economic and social questions; it was written that the purpose of this was to “promote equality between men and women, to ensure, the full integration of women in the total development effort, and to recognize the importance of the increasing contribution of women to the development of friendly relations among States and the strengthening of internal peace.”

All nations that were part of the assembly, despite their different political views, different ethnicity, and different history, agreed upon the importance of giving women an official holiday to celebrate them and give them the recognition they deserve.

The United Nations theme for that year was “equality, development and peace”.

Women in 2023 still struggle to acquire the recognition they deserve, and on this International Women’s Day, women across the world should remember what Gilman said in her famous short fiction, The Yellow Wallpaper, “In a sick society, women who have difficulty fitting in are not ill but demonstrating a healthy and positive response.” n

The SGA’s Presence at Kean Ocean

continued from page 5

Cooper added that it's an opportunity for not only students, but also for the community to get excited about the Ocean campus.

Cooper also holds the title of student assistant for Kean Ocean’s Campus Life and said Ocean Campus Life makes a strong effort to host events on the campus. On Feb. 23, Kean Ocean Campus Life hosted “Dessert Day” catered by Heavenly Eats Catering on

the first floor of the Gateway building.

Students came out and had the opportunity to choose a plethora of sweet treats, and bond with their peers and faculty members.

“Dessert day was amazing, and I enjoyed the homemade cannolis,” Griffin Martire, a senior communication major said.

“It was an experience to bond with not only Professor Atkins, but also my fellow classmates.” n

performer and dancer.”

Braine said her experience with the team also taught her the importance of following her dreams and wishing she could relive those moments over and over again.

“My time as an NFL Cheerleader was so rewarding and really gave me the ability to prove to myself that I am capable of whatever I put my mind to,” Braine said.

At two-years-old, Braine began her career as a dancer following in the footsteps of her mother and sister who are also dancers. She danced competitively and was trained in a variety of styles including but not limited to ballet, hip-hop, tap, musical theatre, and her personal favorite, jazz.

After graduating high school, Braine knew she wanted to continue dancing. She was motivated to follow her dreams as a professional dancer after being inspired by her fellow dancers and friends who followed theirs. Braine added that she was also a cheerleader growing up and by becoming an NFL cheerleader, she would be able to have “the best of both worlds.”

Braine said she got involved with the NY Jets because she appreciated what the organization had to offer. In 2019, she spontaneously registered for a prep class and ultimately fell in love with pro dance.

In the Spring of 2020, Braine transferred to Kean from Middlesex community college where she was involved in the Middlesex Dance Ensemble directed by Aimee Sukel Mitacchione.

While Braine was not involved in any dance organizations at Kean, she was actively involved in her family-owned dance company, Generations Dance Company.

Braine said she, her mother and her sister always dreamed of opening their own dance studio and it took a lot of courage and determination. In 2021, Generations Dance Company was opened in

Dunellen, New Jersey.

“Our studio is currently in its second season and our dancer family is still growing,” Braine said. “Our dance studio is a space for all! We welcome anyone who is wanting to dance and continue to not only teach dance but teach our students about unity, teamwork, and how to express themselves.”

Dance is an intricate form of expression. From its various forms and styles to its technicality and free-flow movement. Braine describes it as influential and a special community to be associated with. Dance gave her the necessary tools that have allowed her to flourish into the woman she is today.

It taught her beautiful ways to express her emotions and how to be compassionate, creative, disciplined, responsible and driven. What she describes as positive characteristics that have influenced her lifestyle.

Braine said when she started at Middlesex Community College she didn’t know what to expect or if dance would remain a part of her life.

“My decision to go to MCC first instead of a four-year university allowed me to explore new opportunities and experiences. Cheering in the NFL is one of those,” Braine said.

Balancing life as a dancer and as a student has been a difficult task for Braine but her passion for both allowed her to triumph.

After graduating in May 2023, Braine hopes to begin her career as an educator. She said to do what you love, what you’re studying and the possibilities aligned in your future is worth giving it your all.

“My future goals include starting my career as an educator and becoming a teacher, continuing to grow my business at Generations Dance Company, and to continue to dance professionally,” Braine said. “I hope to achieve these goals and be an inspiration for others and show that you are able to have a successful career and still follow your dreams. You can do it all if you put your mind to it.” n

Former Three-time NFL Cheerleader and Kean student dominates

“My time as an NFL Cheerleader was so rewarding and really gave me the ability to prove to myself that I am capable of whatever I put my mind to.”

“It’s hard to feel a part of Kean Union, when we don’t necessarily get the same opportunities and events that they do.”

Photo by Megan Braine Megan Braine

Photo by Megan Braine Megan Braine dancing in the studio

Photo by @keansga instagram Kean University Student Government Association

WE GOT SPIRIT, HOW ABOUT YOU?

continued from cover

Dubose. Jordan would be the vice president and Dubose and Coleman would be co-presidents.

Jordan is no longer a student at Kean and while Dubose was unavailable, Coleman had much to say on the matter.

Coleman, a sophomore majoring in criminal justice explained that the reason for their club being inactive was due to the decline of outside interest as they were informed that they couldn’t perform stunts, the initial goal of their organization.

“The goal of the club was to bring some spirit back to football and basketball games, and in the future participate in cheer competitions. We all missed cheerleading from high school and middle school and intended to start an organization that could help others continue this,” Coleman said.

Coleman said many members and prospective members were discouraged because the Kean Blue Diamonds were only approved to do chants and cheer dances.

Karla Rodriguez, a junior marketing major, Karla Rodriguez, believes that a cheerleading team should be at Kean especially since other universities have a cheerleading team.

“Most importantly, I think having a cheerleading team will help boost school spirit and create a sense of community among students and fans, especially during games,” Rodriguez said. “Cheerleading can also promote physical activity and fitness which helps them as athletes.”

Cheerleading includes stunts, jumps, and tumbles all of which the ladies were told they are not permitted to perform.

With the Kean Blue Diamonds not being considered a cheerleading team, there are limitations regarding what they can do at events and athletic games hosted at Kean. Unfortunately, the most they can do is cheering on the bleachers as they are not permitted on the court or field during games, as reported in a 2021 article written by Davaughnia Wilson, The Tower’s current Editor-in-Chief.

“I do believe games and events would be more fun and appealing because cheerleading teams are known for their energetic and enthusiastic performances that aim to boost and motivate the crowd,” Rodriguez said.

Rodriguez also expressed her frustration with the Kean Blue Diamonds not being funded and how they were not given a chance to be a great cheerleading team.

OPINION

continued from page 5

“I can tell they really did want to be an authentic cheerleading team and did what they could to try to be one such as doing their own fundraisers to get funding,” Rodriguez said. “I do think they should've been given a chance to be a part of something they desired and would've enjoyed, maybe things will change and in the future, they will get that chance.”

In Wilson’s article, she mentioned that the Kean Blue Diamonds were not

cheerleading seriously as it is a sport,” Walcott said.

Walcott also believes that cheerleading would hold an important place in games and events at Kean in terms of putting the audience in high spirits.

“Cheerleading at basketball games or anything like that brings more support and love to the team that's playing and brings the audience out of boredom. Cheerleading events are the same thing,” Walcott said. “It’s all individuals who are willing to show their routines to everyone coming out, while having a great time working together doing it.”

Anthony Ravelle, a junior and global business major, said, “I think the entire idea behind them is a good idea, I see no issue with having them as an actual cheer team rather than being listed as a subcategory of what they really are.”

Ravelle stated that having a cheerleading team would be beneficial for Kean, as it would draw in more students to attend events and games and get the crowd full of excitement.

“Yes I believe events and games will be more fun with a cheer team,” Ravelle said. “They get the crowd involved and bring an atmosphere that is unmatched.”

Yahnay Coursey, junior and communications major, agrees with the need for a cheerleading team at Kean as well. She believes that it will bring much encouragement to our team and get students involved, as well as come together and overall enjoy the event.

funded by the Athletic department or the university.

Kelly Williams, Director of Athletics & Recreation, said that the athletics department does not have oversight of cheerleading, and that it is usually done under the club programs on campus.

“Most Division III cheerleading programs are run through the club department and they don't fall under Athletics...although they may perform at athletic events,” Williams said.

With the club being inactive, students are not so pleased and they want to see an actual cheerleading team at Kean.

Melisa Walcott, a junior and communications major, didn’t think it was fair that the club lost the opportunity to be a real cheerleading team.

“It's not fair at all. Almost like the school doesn't take

Academic Dismissal Notice Sent in Error

attention to details. At least, that’s how it was for me.

I was immensely terrified by the email and what it meant for my future.

I quickly responded to the email explaining that I was in fact not a student in the College of Business and Public Administration and that the email was sent to

me in error. Shortly after, I received an email that the dismissal email was sent to me in error.

In my email, I copied my academic advisor, the department of Communication, Media, and Journalism as well as the appeals office and I attached my academic transcript.

“I believe games/events would be way more fun and create larger crowds to the game. It will give people a chance to get more involved after school,” Coursey said.

She also expresses her frustration with the outcome of the Kean Blue Diamonds and said “They should be given a chance because Kean hasn’t had a team since 2008 and so many things have changed since then. Cheerleaders would also be able to express themselves, have fun, make friends while supporting their school at the same time,” Coursey said.

The Kean Blue Diamonds wanted to have the chance to make their mark as Kean University’s cheerleading team. Students want to feel pumped up and ready to cheer on their team. With that, students can come together in cheering making it powerful and uplifting for the team. n

While attaching my academic transcript I no longer felt defeated. I felt powerful and I felt proud. I worked tirelessly these last four years and at that moment, I understood what it felt like to have my work speak for itself.

I am not sure how it occurred or why I received the email but I am glad it was sent in error. n

“But most importantly I think having a cheerleading team will help boost school spirit and create a sense of community among students and fans, especially during games.”

Photo by Isabelle Guthrie Retrieved From Kean Blue Diamonds Instagram Page

A Call For Action In Climate Change Has Begun

continued from page 4

While these changes are happening at an unparalleled rate, multiple actions to reverse the effects of climate change and studies of these effects have habitually been brought into place.

Humans live in a world that is constantly ever-changing. Global temperatures are on the brink and sea levels are continuously rising as the ocean is getting warmer.

Ice glaciers are melting and ocean acidification is steadily increasing. With that, it seems almost impossible to keep up with the frequent disasters that are happening all around the world.

Nature plays a significant part in these disasters but humans are the driving force that enables these almost catastrophic events to happen at such a fast rate.

Until Humans realize that the garbage thrown out miscellaneously in the streets is floating around in our city lakes or when air pollution is causing respiratory problems in Elderly folks due to burning fossil fuels.

Underestimating the flaws of human activity is a recurring problem that large billion-dollar companies are managing. Cheng believes that by getting familiar with the coastal settings in our area that students will have a chance to get a job on coastal protection sites, as well as the sea levels along the east coast shorelines rising at a faster rate than any other place in the country.

“Keyport is very vulnerable to the northeast wind, and

continued from page 2

that is due to the big fetch that coastal towns have and it can generate big waves and on top of that sea levels are rising so with that, it causes erosion issues and infrastructure damage,” Cheng explained.

Student Dallas Ragusa, who is a Sophomore at Kean majoring in Earth Science Education joined professor Cheng

Ragusa also believes that global carbon emissions are to blame for the rise in global temperature but realizes that some of them are due to nature.

“With climate change, you have the human factor and the natural factor, the best thing we can do is try to find the balance between the two,” Ragusa said.

Ragusa is a father of two and has served in the army while also having spent a year in South Korea, and 3 years in Fort Drum, NY. Working with a team was nothing new to Ragusa.

As it was an excellent opportunity to learn, teach and grow with people from around the world who had a common goal.

on Feb.22 Wednesday afternoon in Keyport to perform a site survey.

Ragusas and the coastal team including Cheng, are coming up with a coastal management plan specific to the Keyport beach and waterfront for their first project.

"This plan will help make recommendations as to whether or not the beach needs nourishment by bringing in additional sand,” Ragusa said. “The Keyport beach is experiencing erosion and it is losing sand and is very dry and narrow while Union beach is scheduled to have a nourishment plan.”

As Ragusa decided to commit to finishing school and pursuing a career teaching science he knew the direction he was heading in.

“One common theme in my life's work thus far has been leading, developing, and achieving. There is no better way to do this than teaching kids,” Ragusa said.

With Kean University’s Coastal Team progressing in their project in weeks to come it is nonetheless up to us as a collective species to take part in reconstructing the earth back to safe and healthy climate levels so that our children will not have to grow up in a world where natural sources are at risk of depleting. n

But with a whole week of no classes, it's hard to believe that most professors will work the entire spring break. There is no break for some professors, but to others, it's all about balance.

Dr. Allison Edgley, a communication professor, says she

Inflation causes concern for Kean students

continued from cover than that, I’m not really budgeting because I don’t have money to budget like that.”

Students who commute to school have concerns about paying for transportation or gas every week. Allison Balka, a freshman recreational therapy major isn’t concerned about groceries since she lives at home with her parents, but is more concerned about the spending cost of gas to get to school.

“I commute to school everyday and have to get gas in my car once a week and I usually spend around 30 dollars or more on gas for my car,” Balka said.

Chen Meng, Ph.D., an economics professor at Kean, explained the causes of inflation

has yet to make definite plans for spring break but states that grading never stops, and she hopes to make the best of her time during spring break.

"For the most part, I am going to be relaxing, grading, going to the gym and maybe hanging out in the Poconos, and going to a water park,” Edgley said.

post-pandemic and what students should be concerned about in the future.

“The monetary injection from programs such as the stimulus plan during the pandemic increased the money supply in our economy and as we had more money circulating in the economy, goods and services cost more,” Meng said.

Dr. Meng said an imbalance exists between supply and demand exaggerated by a labor shortage in certain industries that increased wages and production costs. The

Most students get stressed out with the workload throughout the semester, but spring break is a time away from that. Like students, the professor can also succumb to the semester's stress. Even though work doesn't stop for them, one can hope they can also find time to relax and enjoy spring break. n

Federal Reserve has been increasing the interest rate to slow down spending.

“Economic expansions and recessions are regular and cyclical in history, especially as we have just experienced the global-level pandemic,” Dr. Meng said.

“…Although the future depends on different factors like economic policies, market conditions, and global events, eventually our economy will recover. It is always a good idea for students to be aware of economic trends and potential impacts on their financial situation.” n

"I'll spend Spring Break grading assignments, reviewing honor society applications, and planning for upcoming registration."

“With climate change, you have the human factor and the natural factor, the best thing we can do is try to find the balance between the two”

“Everything from food to school supplies has been getting more and more expensive.”

How professors spend spring break

Photo by ET energy world

Protestors line up with posters to help save the planet

Photo by Kean Instagram page @ keanuniversity Kean University

Presidential Excellence Award for Teaching Awarded to Dr. Fred Fitch

continued from page 3

Theological Seminary, Masters of Theology from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and his Ph.D. from the University of Kentucky School of Communication.

Among his accomplishments he is the basic course director for COMM 1402 Communication as Critical Citizenship, the only communication class that every student at Kean has to take.

He also orients the instructors new to the course as to what the class is all about, and gives them ideas.

“We meet with them at least once a year, if not twice to make sure we are all on the same page regarding how we evaluate speeches,” Fitch said.

Fitch created an assessment rubric during his first five years at Kean that is still being used today, and has trained professors on how to use this rubric along with other essentials for the department.

“COMM 1402, while it is an introductory class, is probably the most important class that we offer as a department because everyone has to take it,” Fitch said when explaining the importance of what he has done.

Fitch was awarded at the 2022 President’s Alumni Ball on Sept. 30. Donors, alumni, faculty members, staff members, and students were among the ones awarded to

acknowledge any excellence achievement committed by them throughout the year.

Fitch’s first choice wasn’t teaching, it was actually being an actor. His parents on the other hand thought the chances of having a career as an actor were very slim, and they made a deal with him. They would pay for his tuition if he got a teaching certificate. They didn’t want to have to support him financially once he left college, and they wanted him to be able to find a job.

“I resisted, resented, all of those things. I didn't really want to be a high school teacher, but once I did my student teaching, I really enjoyed it,” Fitch said.

Fitch said he had fun teaching high school students composition, how to do citations, and how to do research, long before the internet when they had to use printed books.

“That’s where it all started,” he said.

He didn’t become a public school teacher after that experience. Instead, he went on to do other things that consisted of church work that also involved teaching, but he believes that this particular time implanted the seed of teaching in him.

“I love the students. I mean the best teachers are the

best learners,” Fitch said.

He believes that both the students and the teachers are all students together in the classroom. Both are learning from each other.

“I love when a student can latch on to an idea and begin to play with it, because, I think I shared that in class, when you start to play with your idea, you are learning it,” Fitch said. “My philosophy in the classroom is the more laughter going on in a classroom, the more learning is taking place.”

He explains that this doesn’t mean the class is easy, but more so that you can make a difficult class more fun.

Taking self-care days, talking to his therapist, and working on not taking himself too seriously are ways that he is able to practice work-life balance and tackle any obstacle.

“If you make yourself a priority, then you will be able to truly take care of others,” Fitch said.

His advice to someone aspiring to choose this career path is not to do it for money, he said while laughing.

“Do it because you just can’t help yourself,” Fitch said. “Everytime I walk into a classroom, it changes me. The best teachers are the ones who are vulnerable, that are able to admit their own lack of knowledge and allow students to teach them, and umm yeah, who give themselves equally to the discipline and to the students.” n

Kean Announces Travelearn Trips for Spring 2023 and Summer 2023 Semesters

continued from page 4

Barzilay said. “We’re doing service and meeting with companies that are for-profit and nonprofit.”

Barzilay then revealed that on Feb. 24, she and her students took part in a day service event called the Zimmerman Park Clean Up, where they cleaned up Zimmerman Park located in Union to give back to the community.

Barzilay and her students will also give back abroad and then compare the two.

When it comes to funding the Travelearn trips, Barzilay says that if you’re going on a Travelearn during spring break (the most popular time to go) and you’re still under 19 credits, then for the credit/tuition part, it’s a part of your credit load, unless you’re overloading.

There is a cost to going on the Travelearn trips, but Barzilay stated that Kean launched a scholarship, Kean Students Go Global, that provides a decent-sized scholarship for students that are going abroad.

“There are requirements for the scholarship that match the requirements for going abroad. It puts that scholarship in reach for everyone who is traveling,” Barzilay said. “It can defray, sometimes more than half the cost.”

Barzilay also added that students can use their financial aid to cover the cost of the Travelearn trip.

As for how many students are going on the Travelearn

trips and if whether or not they don’t have enough students to register, Barzilay stated that they have over a hundred students that are going on a variety of Travelearns for spring break, and she compares the Travelearns to a class.

As for the students who registered for the spring break Travelearns back in 2020 but weren’t able to travel due to COVID, Barzilay stated that while she doesn’t think there aren’t any students who have presented with this situation, she adds that as long as the students are still here and have not graduated, they can still register for other Travelearns.

She also mentioned that no one lost money on the 2020 Travelearns, and explained that Kean took that hit.

“It’s like a class: if you don’t get enough students, you don’t run the Travelearn,” Barzilay said. “We do registration early on and there are sort of two different things: you have to have enough students to run a class and you have to have enough students to run a Travelearn.”

Barzilay also said that when pricing the Travelearns, they’re less expensive if more people go, so she and the Center for International Studies may require more people than a typical class to go to the Travelearn to get a cost structure. If they don’t hit the cost structure, they don’t go to that Travelearn.

“Although we negotiated a great deal with our providers to help us, Kean immediately said ‘We will take the loss, we won’t pass it to any student,’ and then we negotiated for different credits and things for the university,” Barzilay explained.

Although the students were not able to go on the 2020 Travelearns, Barzilay later disclosed that the Center for International Studies exchange program will return to Wenzhou-Kean this fall.

“The good news is, as always, it costs the same amount to study and live at WKU as it does to study and live on our Union campus,” Barzilay said. “Kean is committed to giving students this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Students live, learn, explore, and become globalized citizens prepared to compete in a globalized workforce.” n

“You have to be a little bold, you know, to go abroad with strangers to a place you don’t know,” Barzilay stated.

Photo by Kean University’s CougarLink Zimmerman Park Clean Up Flyer

Photo by Jerry Sullivan

Receiving the award

By Kervin Coleman

Black History Month is nationally recognized for the empowerment of African Americans. In opposition to the oppression and depression that minorities have seen over the last 500 years, the purpose of Black History Month is to remember important people and events in the history of the African diaspora.

According to the NCAA demographics database, Black student-athletes comprised 16% of the student-athlete population in 2022, and 13% of athletics directors were Black. In addition, the NCAA has 53 historically Black colleges and universities as members.

The Kean athletics department has taken part in celebrating Black History Month by releasing video montages with student-athletes, coaches, as well as the director of athletics Kelly Williams.

Jenna Lara, an assistant women’s volleyball coach at Kean and as well as is the coordinator of Athletics & Recreation and Athletic Training Operations, helped orchestrate the idea of the docuseries.

“I really thought of the idea of doing a docuseries to give our student-athletes an opportunity to share their thoughts and experiences on a platform where they are featured regularly,” Lara said.

Kean Athletics launches Black History Month docuseries SPORTS

These videos range from approximately two to four minutes and they document the upbringings and lives of these individuals in relation to showing African American culture.

The impact of these highlighted videos is shown as no other universities have exemplified Black History Month in the sense of documentary-style videos for individuals and their own experiences, then connecting it to the larger scale.

“Being able to hear different stories and experiences gives everyone the opportunity

to understand one another and learn and grow and make changes for the better,” Lara said.

In his episode of the docuseries, Williams described Black History Month as an opportunity to heighten the awareness of all the successes that people of color have made and the impact that they have made. He attributes his learnings to his parents, along with giving them high praise for steering him in the right direction. Williams hopes to have young Black athletes understand and follow his path.

“Systematically there has always been a different dynamic between white and Black athletes,” Williams stated. “Unfortunately for so many years stereotypes and the narrative surrounding black athletes created a major disadvantage and limited opportunities which we are still trying to overcome”.

One of the docuseries episodes features Kean basketball senior guard Jailen Jamison. The experience was brand new to him and Kean in general and was conducted in a professional manner.

continued on page 14

Conner Batjer Scored 100th Career Point in Cougars Season Opener

By Hector Morales

The Men's Lacrosse season is underway and the Cougars have grabbed their first win in their season opener. They defeated Skidmore College 16-15. One player that made a milestone in the Cougars’ first victory is senior attacker Conner Batjer.

Batjer collected his 100th career point in the victory and finished the game with four goals and two assists, totalling six points. He didn’t realize that he was going to reach the milestone until his father reminded him a day prior.

“I honestly didn’t know that it was going to be my 100th point,” Batjer said. “My dad told me the day before and it feels great to get the 100th point.”

He is currently the team leader in goals and is tied with sophomore attacker Nick Thorne with most points as he too collected 6 points to start

the season.

“It was good to play some good competition,” Batjer said. “I think it’s a great way to start the year with a big win like that. Offensively, we are doing great, I think we are matching together really well. Defensively we’re just picking off where we left off last year. We added a few new pieces together and I think we are going to be a really good team.”

Sheiner, who is entering his 20th season as Head Coach for the lacrosse team, was delighted with Conner’s milestone and made sure Conner has something he will remember for the rest of his college lacrosse career.

“It is a great accomplishment and I’m really proud of him,” Sheiner said, “The official asked me if I wanted the ball and I said ‘Yes, we are going to get the ball to him’ and it was a nice moment.”

continued on page 14

“Educating ourselves on the great ones who came before us, who sacrificed their lives so we could live the lives that we do today.”

Photo by Nicole Rivera Jailen Jamison during a basketball contest

Photo by Dorian Alerte Athletic Director Kelly Williams during his episode of the docuseries

Photo by Kean Athletics

Conner Batjer

Photo by Kean Athletics Shelley Sheiner

Controversial shot abruptly ends Kean’s promising Men’s Basketball season

By Kervin Coleman

“West floats it up! Doesn’t get it to fall, rebound by Gunn; West… oh my goodness!” Kean color commentator Jon Edmond exclaimed as senior forward Letrell West buried the shot that had an entire gymnasium under the assumption that Kean won the game.

But wait. “They’re saying he stepped out,” Edmond said suddenly. “It doesn’t count!”

Many elements in basketball heighten the stakes of the situation. Controversy, chaos, and emotions are on display. With the game on the line, in whatever situation somebody is in, you are locked in. All eyes are glued to the product at hand, the hairs on your arms raise, and attention spans increase. These stipulations apply to every individual in the gymnasium, from the coaches and players to the referees and fans alike.

Now picture yourself in every one of those positions in D’Angola gym on Feb. 18 for the first home Cougars playoff game since the 2013-14 season against the TCNJ Lions. The game told a story of its own and was a dog fight the entire way. In a game that was tightly contested and came down to the final possessions, it sometimes wavered away from Kean and they kept finding themselves in predicaments where they’d need to claw back.

In a game that broke even at halftime, the competitive fury led it to the final possession of the second half. West nails a jump shot to tie the game with six seconds remaining and sends the game into overtime. With fifteen seconds left in overtime the game score is 83-81 with the Lions ahead. In a classic case of situational irony, West grabs a rebound and sprints down the floor. A hesitation dribble move turned into a forced shot attempt, which resulted in a miss.

“Once I saw we secured the rebound, I tried to get back in bounds as fast as I could,”

West said. “I didn’t know where I was on the court.”

Senior veteran center Mario Gunn grabs the offensive rebound and passes the ball out to the left corner back to West. West catches the ball, looks down and then raises a three-pointer for the win and cashes it all net. Or so everyone in attendance thought. The sideline referee blew his whistle with the call that West had stepped out of bounds.

continued on page 15

Season recap of Kean University's Men's Basketball

By Wayne Dawes

After last season's New Jersey Athletic Conference tournament loss to RutgersNewark on Feb. 22, 2022 with the score being 89-70, the Kean University men's basketball team felt that they were a few pieces away from being a real contender in the NJAC tournament.

Going into the offseason, Assistant coach Jerry Henderson emphasized last year that keeping key players such as senior forward Letrell West and fifth-year guard Jailen Jamison was one step along with recruiting talent to join the team.

That plan worked out well for the Cougars as they got four transfers from all over the country, Griffin Barker from previously Bellevue College in Seattle Washington. Heem Burno, a point guard from Union County College, Corey Thelisme, a 6 '2 forward from Bloomfield College, and DJ Alicia a 6' 2 guard from Georgian Court University.

Keeping key players and bringing in new talent worked out for the team as

they improved their win total by 4 wins. In the 2021-22 season, the team went 1410, but in the 2022-23 season, they went 18-8 and started the season with 13 wins and zero losses.

“Better talent this year helped improve the team overall,” Henderson said.

Going into the NJAC tournament, Coach Henderson was asked what the team needed to do to come out with the victory against TCNJ.

“Play solid defense, play as a team, and speed up the tempo,” Henderson said.

Defense is known for winning championships and for the basketball team that is one of the keys to coming out on top.

Barker in his first season at Kean University along with being one the team and has had a huge impact on the team with his size and consistently high level of play. At 6’6 and 225 pounds, he

is averaging 18.6 points per game which is good enough to be one of the leading scorers on the team.

“He plays so hard it becomes contagious and it makes the others want to win,” Henderson said.

During an interview in October about the season preview Coach Henderson stated that in the 202223 season the team had their eyes on the NJAC championship and playing in the nationals and coach Henderson was asked if that still stands going into the NJAC tournament.

“Yes that expectation still stands, it is championship or bust,” Henderson said. Barker transferred to Kean University to help the Cougars win a championship

and play in the nationals. Barker is an example of how the Cougars recruit as the team got him to come to play for them as he previously played across the country in Seattle, Washington.

As his first season being a Kean Cougar is coming to a close, Barker Explained

continued on page 15

“It made me mad that I stepped out, I lost us the game.”

This season's team included seasoned pros and new recruits

Photo by Keanathletics.com Barker selected MBWA Divisions II/III Men’s Player of the Week

Photo by Nicole Rivera

Letrell West shooting the game winning shot

Photo by Kean Athelics

Angle of Letrell West’s foot while shooting the potential game winning shot

Kean Athletics launches Black History Month docuseries

continued from page 12

“Black History Month means truly being proud of my culture, coming together to spread love and awareness amongst each other,” Jamison said. “This project was very brand new and exciting for Kean which is always a good thing.”

Jamison’s teammate, fellow senior forward Letrell West also featured in an episode of the docuseries. In an opposing sense of Jamison, West doesn’t fully agree with the ideology of Black history being regulated to one month out of twelve and feels there should be a set implementation of importance regarding Black history whether it's February or not.

“We deserve to be treated and taught in school for the duration of school just like any other history, we shouldn’t be taught or celebrated for a month,” West said. “We as African Americans or Black people are a part of history as a whole and should be treated as that, not just given a month to be taught and highlighted.”

While Black History Month serves as an important reminder of the contributions and achievements of Black Americans, people may argue that the celebration can sometimes focus on accomplishments and a limited selection of figures and events, leaving out many important contributions and experiences of Black people.

The wide selection of the world can pinpoint Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X as important figures, rightfully so but there are other figures who aren’t published in the same vein. There are more people that can acknowledge Rosa Parks accomplishments and influence but do not know who Phillis Wheatley is.

John D. Rockefeller is widely known for becoming the world’s first U.S. dollar billionaire but many are not aware of Mansa Musa, who is considered the wealthiest person in history when equating his net worth to the U.S. dollar.

“My vision for people of color is to be treated with respect, valued for who they are, and to have peace in their everyday experiences,” Williams said. Ultimately, I want equity and a level playing field.”

There have been waves of ideas to expand and continue the celebration of Black

History Month at Kean. Lara wants to see the docuseries continue for future studentathletes who come through Kean programs. She looks at it as an opportunity for Kean student-athletes to visit and speak to athletes of the schools that are involved with the Kean University Building Stronger Urban Communities program.

“Black History Month is a way for us to look back at the incredible achievements and contributions that have been made by people of color and to be inspired by all of the struggles and hardships they had to face to do so,” Lara said.

Kelly Williams has a similar outlook as West when it comes to publicizing Black history and culture further than just the month of February. They also share a similar approach to how Kean should continue its efforts and progressions to doing so.

“Kean can continue to further celebrate African American culture by highlighting our culture throughout the entire school year and not just in the month of February,” Williams said. “Kean can consider featuring people of color's accomplishments and their impact on the world by showing some of the inventions that they did not get proper recognition for.”

A common denominator of Jamison, West, and William’s point of view towards being African American is a sense of motivation and inspiration. Black History Month is an essential celebration of African-American contributions to American society. It's a time to recognize and remember the struggles of Black Americans throughout history and the significant impact they have made on the country.

It's a time to celebrate the achievements of Black Americans and to highlight their role in shaping the nation's culture, politics, and economy. By recognizing Black history, people can better understand and appreciate the diversity and complexity of the American experience. It's a crucial opportunity to reflect on the country's past and present and to commit to creating a more inclusive and equitable future.

“Educating ourselves on the great ones who came before us, who sacrificed their lives so we could live the lives that we do today,” Jamison said. n

Conner Batjer Scored 100th Career Point in Cougars Season Opener

continued from page 14

The Cougars have a healthy roster coming into the 2023 season. Coach Sheiner explained that last year’s lacrosse team started out their season with some injuries and how it is important to have the players healthy so they have a good chance of playing good ball this spring.

“Last year we started off with some pretty bad injuries that kind of spiraled us into a tailspin,” Sheiner said. “We were just missing some key guys back then and now it's a much fresher team.”

Batjer’s new teammate and freshman attacker Dylan Johnson, enjoyed playing with him in his first ever college lacrosse game and looks forward to playing ball with him the rest of the season.

“Conner is the best, number one on the field and number one in my heart,” Johnson said.

The Cougars next game will be against Delaware Valley University Aggies on March 1. Coach Sheiner hopes the team’s defense can improve since there are new Cougars on the team and said that the

more they get along with playing ball with each other, then the team’s defense will build on.

“There are a lot of new guys on the team, so they just haven’t played enough together,” Sheiner said. “The more they play, then I think we are going to get a little bit more cohesive on defense, but I think they are going to be great.”ºBatjer hopes he and his teammates will make the Colonial States Athletics Conference tournament at the end of the season and win it all in what may be his final season as a Cougar.

“All I want to do is to win a championship and that is all I care about,” Batjer said. n

Photo by Kean Athletics

Conner Batjer’s 100th Career Point

Photo by Kean Athletics

Jenna Lara in her media day portrait for Kean Athletics website

“It is a great accomplishment and I’m really proud of him,”

Controversial shot abruptly ends Kean’s promising Men’s Basketball season

continued from page 13

“I heard the referee blow the whistle midway through my shot and I knew he was calling me out of bounds,” West said.

With this turnover, the Cougars stay down by two points with four seconds left. The Lions then ice the game with two free throws and that led to the end of the Cougars season. The gymnasium roared then sat down with feelings of agony, pain, and disbelief. West himself went and sat near the out-of-bounds marker, as he faced the jurisdiction of the whistle.

“After the game I was soaking in the moment because that was the last game of my collegiate career,” West said. “It’s no going back and no need to hold on to anger and resentment over a basketball game.”

The debate became whether or not the call was just and if West’s foot hit the outof-bounds marker or not. Kean’s color commentary disagreed heavily with the call, exclaiming that West was in bounds. The fans jumped put of their seats, pouring all over the parque floor angry with the referee’s verdict.

There was no instant replay conversation within the referee’s which also caused an

Season recap of Kean University's Men's Basketball

uproar as the replay was shown on the Jumbotron, with the motions looking to be too fast for the naked eye. Kean lobbied mightly for a referee’s timeout review.

“My teammates and I knew that I was going to make the shot, for me to take the win away from us hurts,” West stated.

In a sense of clarity, West and his teammates watched film of the shot time and time again, slowing it down frame by frame in an attempt to reap some closure over their disappointment. West came to the conclusion that the referees made the correct call.

“It made me mad that I stepped out. I lost us the game,” West said.

However, basketball is a team sport and functionally that singular shot did not lose the game for Kean. Mistakes by the Cougars early and hot streaks by the Lions helps propel the Lions to be in the position to win the game. Kean continuously fought back up until the very end. The fourth-seeded Cougars dropped the game versus the TCNJ Lions in overtime by score of 85-81. The Cougars finished with an 18-8 (11-7 in NJAC) record, their best mark since the 2010-11 season. n

how his first season has been with the team.

“My first season on the men's basketball team I really enjoyed, I think as a team we went through a lot of highs and lows together but came out together in most cases,” Barker said.

Having a good relationship with your teammates and coaches is very important especially when the team is on a title run but Barker praises his teammates and coaches for being honest and helpful throughout the season.

“What I like most about my coaches and teammates is the honesty that you can have with them, if something is not

going right on the court something will be said because of the high expectations that we have for one another,” Barker said.

Black History Month Speaker Explains Racial Trauma

continued from page 13 continued from page 3

been her.

Jones-Damis said everyone responds to trauma differently. For Ojeh, she went out to protest, and that is when David McAtee was murdered, another racially traumatic event.

“Repeated exposure to images and stories of racial trauma in communities or in news coverage can impact individuals' emotional, psychological, behavioral, and physical functioning,” Jones-Damis said.

Racial trauma, however, is not limited to racial violence and aggression, which is often passed down from generation to generation. It also includes but is not limited to, racial harassment, microaggressions, bias, and xenophobia.

Quoting the article ‘Invisible Wounds of Racial Trauma,’ by Kenneth V. Hardy Ph.D. Jones-Damis stated that “racial trauma is a form of interpersonal violence which can lacerate the spirit, scar the soul, and puncture the psyche.”

Microaggression is what Jones-Damis calls micro assaults, “death by 1,000 cuts.” They can be either overt and conscious, explicit or subtle, slights or insults and verbal

Going into the NJAC tournament Barker was asked what is the main goal going to the tournament for the team.

“The main goal for the NJAC Playoffs is to just have fun and enjoy the experience,” Barker said.

The Cougars have their eyes set on one thing and that is winning the NJAC tournament and playing in the nationals, but to also have fun while playing the game they love to play and coach and to enjoy the experience. n

or nonverbal.

Jones-Damis said racial trauma is like any other trauma. It isn’t something you “just get over.” Enduring racism and discrimination is a part of racial trauma.

Individuals often question a Black person’s trauma and their experiences but don’t question other traumas.

She gave the example of sexual assault. If someone claims to be sexually assaulted, the question isn’t “are you sure?” But when it comes to a Black person's racial trauma, the question is “well, are you sure that was a microaggression? Are you sure they weren’t just complimenting you on your hair when they touched it?”

She added that individuals often do not intend to inflict microaggression on another person, but they do. It is about the impact it has on the receiver.

“As individuals, we assume that the language we use doesn’t derive from a system of inequality,” Ojeh said. n

Photo by Davaughnia Wilson

Welcome Board outside MSC room

Photo by Keanathletics.com

Men’s Basketball secures Playoff spot with victory over RutgersCamden

Photo by Keanathletics.com

Barker and West tabbed All-NJAC selections

Neil Ioviero Earns 750th Career Win as Cougars Baseball Head Coach

By Anthony Reyna

Ioviero, the six-time New Jersey Athletics Conference Coach of the year and winningest coach in Kean Athletics history, added yet another impressive milestone to his head coaching career which began in 1998.

In the time since Ioviero took over, Kean’s Baseball Program has become one of the most decorated programs in the country, with 5 NJAC Championships, 14 NCAA Tournament appearances, 6 NCAA Division III World Series appearances and a NCAA Division III World Series Championship in 2007. The university had won exactly zero championships for Baseball until 2002, Ioviero’s fifth year as Head Coach.

“It definitely feels special,” Steven Bucchignano, the assistant coach said. “Neil has a special place in my life and I’m forever grateful to him, and Jack Nagy, one of our assistants who passed away in October 2019, for recruiting me 25 years ago.”

Buccignano, who returned for his eighth consecutive year on the staff this season, also played for Kean from 1999-2003, some of Ioviero’s earliest years in charge of the program.

As a pitcher, Bucchignano was a part of Kean’s first ever NJAC Tournament victory for Baseball in 2002.

“Kean, was the absolute worst baseball program possibly in the state when Neil took over,” Bucchignano said. “The facilities, the uniforms, the gear, and the field were

terrible. So to see where this started, to where it is now, all with the same person as head coach is truly amazing. To be a part of that journey, and to be a part of his 100th, 600th, 700th and now 750th win is really special, because I know how much blood, sweat and tears went into this.”

For Coach Ioviero, Kean has always been exactly where he wanted to be, stating that it felt like home since the start.

“Just be yourself,” Ioviero said. “I was the youngest head coach in the country at 24 when I started. You find yourself under pressure to act a certain way when you start out so young. The actual baseball part has always been the easiest thing. But just be yourself always.”

Even in the constantly changing sport of baseball, Ioviero still approaches the game the same way he always has.

“Neil’s ability to adapt with the ever changing landscape of college baseball but continue to adhere to his core beliefs is what I find amazing about him,” Bucchignano said.

A major component of Ioviero’s coaching philosophy all takes place before the first pitch is ever thrown.

Ioviero said he establishes the teams goal early on and focus on everything but winning. With great preparation you will win.

“My job is to make my

guys believe. We expect to win,” Ioviero said. “The shock shouldn’t be when you win, it’s when you lose.” n

Photo by Kean Athletics

Coach Ioviero recently secured his 750th Victory at KU

Photo by Kean Athletics

Kean’s Jim Hynes Baseball Stadium

Photo by Kean Athletics Head Coach Neil Ioviero

“My job is to make my guys believe. We expect to win. The shock shouldn’t be when you win, it’s when you lose.”