The Tower- The Independent Voice of Kean University - September 2023 Issue

visit us at kutower.com Awarded NJ's 2020 #1 college newspaper

@KeanTower

"We've Got Spirit, How About You?"

NJAC Rookie of the Week Anabel Makutonin

Page12

Page 3

COVID-19 is Real

Page 7

Oct | 2023

WWW.KUTOWER.COM TH E I N DEPEN D EN T VOI C E OF K E AN U N IV E R S IT Y

Kean Homecoming 2023 Preview: What to Expect

By Tyra Watts At this month's homecoming weekend, a new Homecoming Royals couple will be crowned for the first time, a gender-neutral title, replacing king and queen.

“In an effort to embrace diversity and inclusivity within the campus community, we can have two males or two females,” said Senior Class President Glynnis Tan. “The winners will be receiving a $250 Visa Gift card and two complimentary tickets to the 2024 Senior Formal.”

The royals are selected from student applications. The Homecoming Royals application deadline was Sept. 29 at 2 p.m.

Kean University has a lot planned for the big event. This year’s homecoming is from Oct. 13 to Oct. 15. Kean is introducing a new event called the Alumni Homecoming Kickoff on Oct. 13 from 7 to 10 p.m. at Suspenders Restaurant and Pub in Union.

“The event is free, but registration is required. Each guest will receive one drink ticket, light appetizers, and an exclusive Kean Homecoming gift,” according to the Kean website.

“Hearing the fun stories that other people are saying about it, it pumps me up” - Senior Class President Glynnis Tan

Photo by Kean University

Homecoming Weekend 2023

continued on page 4

Campus Responds to Stabbing on Campus “I can honestly say that time did save his life, or we could be having a different conversation right now.”

Photo by Kean University Facebook Page

Kean’s MSC basketball courts and Turf field. Near where the incident took place.

By Justin McDaniel

“ In totality, it took eleven and a half minutes, from the time the altercation started to the time the victim was transported to the hospital. And I can honestly say that time did save his life, or we could be having a different conversation right now.”

That was the response from Kean University President, Lamont O. Repollet after a Kean student was the victim of a stabbing on Tuesday, Sept. 23 outside the basketball courts near the Miron center.

Described as an isolated incident, police said two young male suspects were looking for trouble around the school by shoving people. When a Kean student responded, the suspects fled the area on bikes after the stabbing him at around 8:15 pm. Cameras were being used to identify the suspects.

A quick-acting Kean PD was on the scene within three minutes and the victim was transported to the hospital

around 8:26 pm. Phone messages were sent out notifying all staff, faculty and students about the stabbing shortly after 9 pm. The student, whose name has not been released, is reportedly in stable condition and was still in the hospital a week after the incident. “ To make clear this was not a random act, The Kean PD investigation is ongoing and it has been clear that this was an altercation involving people who came from outside the campus, it was an isolated incident, ” President Repollet said.

A community forum on wellness was put together quickly and invited all members of the campus community to attend.

During the Forum, President Repollet assured everyone that while Kean will remain an open campus the Kean police department will be patrolling more often with security present at the clock tower and basketball continued on page 4

2 THE TOWER September, 2023

Former Kean Student Puts on Cabaret in New York

By Jaidon Harris-Morales Recent Kean graduate Katie Kawko produced a Cabaret of Daisy Jones and the Six at the iconic 54 Below in New York City this past August.

Upon leaving Kean, Kawko, who graduated in the spring, had the opportunity to produce a show at 54 Below, a venue she frequented during her college years.

After reading Jenkins Reid’s Daisy Jones and The Six, as well as watching the Amazon Prime series of the same name, Kawko was inspired to produce a cabaret based on the book.

“It was really a full circle moment,” Kawko said when asked how it felt to work at 54 Below. “I have been going there for years, so to be in that space professionally, just very full circle.”

While Kawko has theater experience as an actor and crew member, this was her first foray into the producer's chair. Her time working with the Kean Theatre Conservatory, as well as her time at Premiere Stages Kawko introducing the show helped her in taking on this new role confidently.

“Most of my job was making sure everything went smoothly,” Kawko said, “which I’m already comfortable with because I thankfully had opportunities at Kean where I was able to be in a leadership role or work closely with people in leadership roles. Those hands-on experiences were a great help in putting on my own production.”

Kawko’s experience includes Kean Theatre Conservatory’s Animal Farm, student

“I have been going there for years, so to be in that space professionally, just very full circle” Photo by Katie Kawko

Photo by Katie Kawko

Kawko and Stubbs at cabaret debut

produced shows such as the annual directors showcase and working closely with John Wooten, the Executive Director of Theatre Management & Programing at Kean stage and Premiere Stages. This experience also allowed her to make useful connections, which she utilized to gain the opportunity of putting on this show.

“You never know who you’re going to meet that can help you in the future,” Kawko continued on page 8

Board of Trustees Appoints Transformational Learning and Kean Online

By Adaora Nnakwe Kean’s Board of Trustees meeting appoints Transformational Learning and Kean Online to students for the 2023-2024 academic year. The meeting was held to the public on Sept.18 at Kean Hall.

Kean Online provides a world-class education with 23 different degree programs that allow students to complete their degree with schedule flexibility. Dr. Joseph Youngblood II, SVP of Transformational Learning and External Affairs, said there has been an increase in the fall 2023 enrollment to 1,600 students for Kean Online since the start of Kean Online in 2021 that started with only 600 students.

Youngblood said that Photo by Adaora Nnakwe students will have a new Kean Hall learning experience through Kean Online.

“You will come to Kean as one person, then you will leave in four years as a completely different person,” Youngblood said.

Jay O’Callaghan, V.P. for Transformational Learning and Chief Online Officer, said that Transformational Learning involves two units that help advance the learning

process for students, beginning with Kean Online. He suggested that there should be collaborations amongst the faculty to help strengthen the learning programs that involve Kean Online 2.0. O’Callaghan said that he is proud of the contribution made to the University.

“Ultimately, our mission is very much about students, faculty and staff. We also make it our responsibility as a university to help provide better opportunities to drive all the initiatives that the university is trying to drive,” O’Callaghan said.

Kean Online is expected to improve on better lab experiences for online students who are taking courses in biology, chemistry, and physics.

Felice Vazquez, Esq., Senior V.P. for Planning and Special Counsel to the President, announced a Photo by Adaora Nnakwe partnership pre-college Board of Trustees Meeting at Kean Hall program with Kean University that ran during the summer of 2023. The program involves inner-city high school students from Jersey City and Elizabeth, NJ that are interested in STEAM majors with art added.

Jenny Davis, Esq., Chief of Intergovernmental Affairs at the Port Authority of NY and

“Ultimately, our mission is very much about students, faculty, and staff.”

continued on page 9

September, 2023

THE TOWER 3

Homecoming Athletics at Kean University 2023

By Kervin Coleman

“Homecoming to me is a time for the whole school to come together and show great school spirit and pride.” Nungesser

Every university uses homecoming as a way to bring its population together. Students, professors, directors, and alumni come together for the tradition of homecoming to spread the campus's culture and a chance for people to connect in ways they may not have previously. Homecoming exhibits and enhances school spirit for a week with plenty of festivities, but none more prominent than the athletic events.

Kean University’s homecoming festivities will occur on Oct. 14. Three different Cougars teams will be roaring into action at Kean University Alumni Field that day: the football, field hockey, and women’s soccer teams. These teams will duke it out that day, defending their home turf.

Photo by Kean University Athletics While the barbecues and music erupt during the tailgate, the Senior Quarterback football team will be in the locker room, getting their minds right Robbie Nungesser before their game. They will play in a NJAC matchup versus The College of New Jersey Lions. The Cougars have won the previous two matchups versus the Lions in hard-fought single-score games.

Last season, the Cougars played the Lions in the season finale of a night game that included inclement weather. Senior Quarterback Robbie Nungesser started the game but didn’t finish the game. While breaking away a run from the defense, he saw free turf in front of him but then collapsed to the ground, suffering a hamstring injury.

“I ended up injuring the same hamstring that got injured during the homecoming game, and this happened on only the third play,” Nungesser said. “This hurt because of all the preparation leading up to it and how hard I worked every week just to stay healthy.”

Photo by Kean University Athletics

Junior Midfielder Kelsey Corbett

Photo by Kean University Athletics

Women’s Soccer Team

Homecoming 2022 was a tough day for Kean football. The team competed valiantly with the injury bug, losing Nungesser and their backup quarterback sophomore, Dario Bryant, to a thumb injury and senior linebacker, Ray Gorny, to a torn ACL. “I ended up straining my hamstring at the end of the third quarter and was unable to continue playing,” Nungesser said. “I wanted to finish the game so badly in front of our home crowd, but I was unable to.”

Nungesser feels as though homecoming is a time for the whole school to come together and show great school spirit and pride. He views the interactive activities around campus as bringing the campus together as one. continued on page 8

By Layah Lopes

We’ve Got Spirit, How About You? “Give it a try, it might be the best thing you ever had.

You might find people you never knew you needed,” says Todman

Spirits are on the rise, and it’s not just because of Halloween.

Founded just seven months ago, the Kean University cheer club is quickly gaining traction.

To raise morale, s o p h o m o r e Shukuran Adewole has collaborated with track and field and crosscountry coach Daniel Todman to start a new Photo by Instagram: Keanucheer cheerleading club at The E-board The team the university.

The ball started rolling when Shukuran Adewole noticed a lack of spirit at the university's basketball games. With The intent to make a change, a meeting was set up with the president, the director of CLS, and the director of athletics.

“Why aren’t there cheerleaders here? It’s dry, there’s no spirit in the gym,” Adewole said, expressing her disheartenment, and queried the lack of effort towards having a team.

Photo by Instagram: Keanucheer

Photo by Instagram: Keanucheer

performance schedule

The response was that an attempt was made in the past and had yet to work. A lack of funding also played a role in the university's efforts towards a team.

“We need school spirit, we need liveliness at the games,” says Adewole.

Cheerleaders have become a vital part of the university athletic community, rallying fans and athletes alike. So it's not hard to see why someone would be so encouraged to

create that environment.

With that being said, Adewole suggested starting up a cheer club. Of course, liability issues arose, but she assured the three that no one would be getting thrown in the air.

From there, the idea was approved and set in motion.

Gathering three other students with a shared vision and determination, Adewole continued on page 9

4 THE TOWER September, 2023

Kean Homecoming 2023 Preview: What to Expect continued from cover

Photo by Kean University Facebook

Photo by Kean’s SGA Instagram @keansga and Kean’s SGA Class of 2024 Instagram @keansga2024

Last year’s Homecoming King and Queen, Alexander Salazar and Tamaya Upchurch

Homecoming Royals Flyer

Makenzie Kuntz, president of Kean’s Student Government Association, said they have some wonderful events planned for homecoming this year.

“On October 11, we will be hosting a Hypnotist Show, and as per tradition, we will have our Homecoming Concert on October 12 in Wilkins Theatre.”

This year’s performer for the Homecoming Concert is Flo Milli, an Alabama-born rapper who is best known for hits such as “In The Party,” “Conceited,” “Beef FloMix,” and others.

Kuntz presents the weekend also features (but they are not hosting) the Homecoming Pep Rally and Tailgate.

Kuntz added that students can refer to the Kean University website or CougarLink for more information regarding Homecoming events.

This year’s homecoming theme is “Barbie.” Kean students voted for the Barbie theme at Kean Day at the Center for Leadership and Service table.

Tan said it has been a fun experience and likes how diverse Homecoming is and how it opens the doors for everyone else.

“Hearing the fun stories that other people are saying about it, it pumps me up,” Tan said. “I’m really excited, and I love the team that I’m working with and

how everyone has amazing ideas.”

Tan, who has never attended homecoming, has always wanted to go since her first year at Kean but couldn’t due to her work schedule. She thanks SGA because she now has an actual reason to go homecoming.

Homecoming is not complete without naming the annual king and queen. Last year’s homecoming king and queen was Alexander Salazar and Tamaya Upchurch.

This year, however, to eliminate traditional gender titles, the event is renamed The Homecoming Royals. SGA decided on the name change.

According to an email sent on Sept. 26, the Homecoming Royals Elections will occur on Oct. 12 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on CougarLink. Finalists will be notified after the election and must be at the Homecoming Pep Rally and Homecoming Football Game.

Kuntz said she will not participate in the Homecoming Royals but will be present at the events and looking forward to engaging with the student body.

She also encourages all students to get involved and to make memories.

“It is a week of tremendous fun where students, faculty, staff, and alumni get together to celebrate Kean University and all it has to offer. It’s something I look forward to every year!” Kuntz stated.

The announcement of the nominees for the Homecoming Royals will take place during the pep rally, which will occur on Oct. 13 at Harwood Arena from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., the same day as the Homecoming Activation with the Red Bull Gaming Hub at the Harwood Parking Lot from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Also new to Kean this year is the Kean Cougar Kidzone on Oct. 4, with fun activities provided at the Miron Student Center (MSC) Plaza for ages 5 to 13 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., followed by a familyfriendly movie at the Little Theatre in the Miron Student Center at 1 p.m.

Student registration will be available soon via CougarLink. Faculty and Staff must not register but must show their Kean University ID when picking up their tickets at the Welcome Tent.

Meanwhile, Kean’s Football, Field Hockey, and Women’s Soccer teams will play during homecoming weekend.

The Kean Football Cougars will be versing The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) at home at the Alumni Stadium on Oct. 14 at 1 p.m.

On the same day, Kean’s Field Hockey team will be up against Lynchburg at the Union campus at 5 p.m., and Kean’s Women’s Soccer Team will be versing William Paterson at 7:30 p.m. at the Alumni Stadium. n

Campus Responds to Stabbing on Campus continued from cover

courts frequently throughout the day and into the night.

However, even with some of the changes coming to ensure a safer campus, some students are still unsure of how to feel about the incident with some more worried than others. “ I feel safe at Kean. I live on campus and feel as though the police do a good job patrolling the campus. But there is always that thought that anything can happen because it is an open campus.

So especially with something like this happening now it just makes you want to keep your guard up more because anything could happen.” said Samantha Pepe, a psychology major. “ Honestly, My initial reaction was feelings of sadness when I heard about the situation, I was hoping the victim of the stabbing was okay. I hate that everyone can’t just be peaceful without violence, especially

being so young.”

Since the incident Kean has done what they can to make everyone feel safe by having more security and police present on campus, checking for Kean IDs more frequently, and the blue light phones are on and activated for anyone in need in case of emergency. “ Our crime rate is low and we knew to beef up our security on the campus when this happened, we had two security guards and a police officer on the field.

You just can't look 360 all the time,” said Anthony Monticello, Director of Public Safety at Kean, who was also at the forum. “ It starts with if you see something say something. That is very important when it comes to these things. Crimes are solved by the people, not the police.”

Despite the incident, students were still able to get through the week and even had their annual “Meet The Greeks”

Photo by Justin McDaniel

Kean University’s Rave Alert

event on campus with no issues. And now with security more present on campus, the threat level of an incident like this happening again is low. “ In all my years here at Kean I’ve never seen anything like this happen,” said Johan Civil a Communication major. “It’s usually calm around campus and nothing ever this crazy so it was shocking to even hear that something like this happened.

Just gotta be thankful the police and emergency services got him out of here quick to get the help he needed.”

From the time this event took place, Kean has stepped up security, rave notifications, to being quick on the call in the need of an emergency Kean has shown that if the danger comes they will be prepared for it and that preparation might just be what can save a life. n

September, 2023

Human Rights Gallery Mural

By Brittany Fuentes

diplomacy. The document and the group of people behind

In honor of the 75th anniversary of the declaration of human rights, a document that was created by the United Nations after World War II, artist in residence Ricardo Roig is creating a large-scale 44 ft long mural for the Human Rights Institute.

Photo by Colten Gottlob

Progress of human rights institute mural

The mission of the Human Rights Institute at Kean aims to focus on topics surrounding social justice and human rights with the Human Rights Gallery serving as an extension of the institute.

Through the declaration of human rights, countries came together to create a group of people who believed in

By Isabelle Guthrie

it were the inspiration for the idea of the mural’s creation

“Kean is on an incredible journey and we need to keep telling our story and we are and the voices are getting louder and more intense and interesting and people are starting to see it and understand that Kean is something amazing.” says Dr. Zimmerman

THE TOWER 5

hand cut fine art. He is a Kean alumni who graduated in 2008. Roig has made a career for himself, he owns up to 5 galleries in the New Jersey, Boston, and New York areas, and he has collectors all over the world. He has done projects for NYU, Amazon, as well as for the W Hotel and is now doing private events.

Roig says, “Kean gave me my voice to speak my art, I

Photo by Colten Gottlob

A look at the mural

because it is an embodiment of what the Institute does.

am just a conduit for my art, I’m just the vessel, it’s not about me as an ego, I’m a nobody. It’s simply about, am I doing right with my talent on earth.”

Dr. Lynette Zimmerman Ed.D, executive director of

Roig is a contemporary fine artist who specializes in

continued on page 9

WE DECLARE

equality – protecting the rights of every individual, everywhere. It was the first time countries agreed on the freedoms and

From Oct. 2 to Dec. 8, 2023, Kean University will celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), a momentous occasion for this document that made history.

A mural called “WE DECLARE” by Artistin-Residence Ricardo Roig will feature many leading human rights activists. Human Rights Institute Annual (HRI) Conference speakers and historical figures who made this document and its validation will make an appearance.

The Opening Reception is on Oct. 12 Photo by Colten Gottlob from 5-8 PM and Nov. Working On The Mural 2 is a student-only event featuring Roig, plus a panel discussion, in the HRI Gallery.

The UDHR is a document that acts rights that deserve universal protection for like a global road map for freedom and every individual to live their lives, equally

and in dignity, according to Amnesty International, a human rights group.

The United Nations adopted the

recognized human rights to be the foundation for freedom, justice, and peace.

The event and mural will be a reminder of this declaration as well as bring more awareness to the everlasting human rights issue in the United States.

Roig explained the significance of the mural and the idea behind it.

“There’s an Isaac Newton quote that says, “If I have seen further than others, it is by standing upon the shoulders of giants.” and it’s all in that quote,” Roig said. “Everyone that has come before us and with us now, so it’s everybody that is bringing their best Photo by Colten Gottlob self, their best qualities, Executive Director Lynette Zimmerman their best way to be of service to others so that we could all share this fight for respect for document on December 10, 1948, shortly everyone.” continued on page 10 after the end of World War II. Its adoption

“There is an Isaac Newton quote that says, ‘If I have seen further than others, it is by standing upon the shoulders of giants.’”

6 THE TOWER September, 2023

Suicide Prevention Month:

Find Your Anchor at Kean University

By Josephine Carrillo On Sept. 21st, Morris Ave Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA), a student-run public relations firm at Kean University, decided to collaborate

seemed “cold, sterile, corporate and uncolorful” so she decided to create the resource she wished she had. She turned her pain into action and founded Find Your Anchor and designed the Anchor Box.

Department of Communication Kean University Center for Academic Success 1000 Morris Avenue Union, NJ 07083 Telephone: (908) 737-0470; Fax: (908) 737-0465 Email: thetower@kean.edu; www.kutower.com

The Tower is an independent, laboratory newspaper of Kean University’s journalism option in the communication major program. It is published monthly through the regular academic year and supported by advertising and the Department of Communication. The Tower is not responsible for claims made by its advertisers. The Tower is a public forum and is free from censorship and advance approval of content by the university administration. The Tower staff is responsible for its content.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: T YRA WATTS NEWS EDITOR: ADAORA NNAKWE

Photo by Josephine Carrillo

Isabel Evans, co-president of Morris Ave PRSSA

with Find Your Anchor (FYA), a non-profit organization that aims to spread awareness and educate on suicide prevention, in honor of September being National Suicide Prevention Month.

Find Your Anchor was founded by Alli Borowsky, a graphic designer who struggled with mental health issues and contemplated the idea of ending her life.

Borowsky believed the available resources

Photo by Josephine Carrillo

Find an anchor that will keep you firmly planted “no matter what winds or storm may come.”

Establishing your anchor means finding that one thing that will keep you “firmly planted” and provide a feeling of safety and stability, that you can depend on “no matter what winds or storm may come.” continued on page 10

New Opportunities in Sports Communication at Kean

By Colin Ward

relations, programming, production, and many more fields are all obtainable.

Students interested in a career in “We are looking forward to building professional sports communications the sports program at Kean,” Professor gathered at Kean Schwab said when University in Union on asked about the recent Sept. 14th. Professor sports communication Suzanne Schwab spoke meeting. “We know we to the students about the are located in a prime sports communication spot to have such a program at Kean and program.” noted all of the exciting Kean University does and new opportunities its part in giving students that are coming up. all of the experience The professional they can in professional sports communications sports. The University Photo by Sport balls business is always Sports Communication has become a has partnerships with growing and evolving. very popular area of study the New York Jets NFL There are many potential team, New York Red career opportunities available after Bulls soccer team, and they are actively graduation in the sports world. Careers in looking into a partnership with the New journalism, broadcasting, analytics, public continued on page 11

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT/ FEATURES EDITOR: JUSTIN McDANIEL FEATURES: ISABELLE GUTHRIE SPORTS: KERVIN COLEMAN ONLINE EDITOR/ SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER: JOSEPHINE CARRILLO STAFF WRITERS

JOHN DEFREITAS RIDIMERB DIAZ-RAMIREZ BRITTANY FUENTES-SAENZ JAIDON HARRIS-MORALES LAYAH LOPES NEFERTITI NZAMEYO MATTHEW SIERRA COLIN WARD PHOTOGRAPHY/VIDEO: COLTEN GOTTLOB 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.

COVID-19 is Real

By Ridimerb Diaz-Ramirez On April 12, 2020, I received a phone call from the hospital stating that my grandmother, Felicita Beltre, had passed away due to pneumonia caused

by COVID-19.

COVID-19 seemed like a made-up disease to so many people, including me. Reality quickly hit once we got the call telling us my grandmother was gone.

Two weeks before this devastating day for me and my family, I was hanging out with friends, and I simply remember not being able to taste anything.

Grandma and me Rubbing alcohol didn’t make a difference in front of my nose, and a spoonful of hot sauce did not affect my throat.

September, 2023

THE TOWER 7

My friends and I gathered to have a seafood boil day despite the warnings from the government to keep social distance and avoid gatherings.

we thought the government was trying to distract us from something bigger.

Upon going home that afternoon, not understanding why I didn’t taste anything, my mom called me, saying my grandmother had to be taken to the doctor because she wasn’t feeling well, and I needed to help her get in the car.

COVID-19 never crossed my mind, not even once.

The whole time, I assumed my grandmother was just homesick because she had been in the country for less than a year and wished to return to her homeland in the Dominican Republic.

My grandmother had been complaining about Photo by Ridimerb Diaz-Ramirez Photo by Ridimerb Diaz-Ramirez not feeling well for about The beautiful Felicita three days now, and the minute she went to the That same day, I remember my friends telling each doctor, he sent her straight to the hospital due to her other that we didn’t believe COVID-19 was real. Instead, continued on page 11

“Get me out of here, I am going to die.”

By Nefertiti Nzameyo

A Safe Space for Students

others focused on interests or personal struggles they overcame.

lifetime, where icebreakers were an integral part of the process.

I could probably present a full

having the proper materials at hand.

According to the Harvard

to connect and cultivate a safe space. Professors may exercise In an Advanced Public different methods to encourage Speaking class, enrolled engagement, from going Kean students introduced around the room and having themselves to the class students briefly share details by presenting cultural about themselves to a formal speeches. It was the second presentation assignment. class meeting, and many Lydia Kaplan, a Research students had not put names and Technology professor, to the faces of their fellow incorporated a unique classmates yet. version of icebreaker The culture speech introductions during the provided the professor with first classes of the semester. an idea of each member's "You have to know your speech abilities while also audience. I want them to allowing the students to feel in a warm, friendly become familiar with one environment. Icebreakers another. are a low-stakes activity, Photo by https://www.kean.edu/offices/registrars-office Photo by 3D Full Spectrum Unity Holding Hands Concept Photo by lecture The assigned speech Ensuring students are at ease in the classroom Introductions invite students to connect “It suggests that your voice is important and yet students are making opened the floor to environment can drastically alter their performance and cultivate a safe space and not everything in school is about an important contribution members of the class to for the better grades." - Lydia Kaplan, Research and to the class environment,” share communities they Technology professor Kaplan said. identify with and which they “It suggests that your voice consider with great respect in Courtney Atkins, an Advanced course on icebreakers. That Health Blog, college students is important and not everything their everyday lives. While few today appear to be more stressed in school is about grades." students demonstrated their Public Speaking professor said, would be fun.”

Kaplan’s approach consists Adjusting to the start of than ever before. pride in being from particular “I've been in leadership and continued on page 11 geographical settings, many workshop roles throughout my a semester takes more than Introductions invite students

“Icebreakers are a low-stakes activity and yet students are making an important contribution to the class environment.”

8 THE TOWER September, 2023

Former Kean Student Puts on Cabaret in New York continued from page 2

said. “I pretty much introduce myself to everyone I can.

Networking is a major part of this industry and it’s actually how I was able to put on this production in the first place.”

It was, in fact, a connection made in the Theatre Conservatory that opened the door for this opportunity.

After falling in love with Reid’s book, Kawko reached out to a friend who had previously put on a production at 54 Below to start the process of producing her own show.

The show, which took place August 29, included several Kean alumni as well as a current Kean student. For 13 actors, including alumnus Melody Stubbs, the show also served as their New York Debut.

Stubbs said her debut “Felt amazing. Of course it has always been a dream of mine to perform in New York City, and this was a great project to be a part of as my debut!”

Like Kawko, Stubbs’ time with the Kean Theatre Conservatory was helpful in working in a professional setting. Though transitioning to a New York stage came with its own set of challenges, Stubbs’ personal relationship with Kawko made the process easier.

“It’s always such a great experience to create alongside some amazing friends,” Stubbs said. “It also made the whole show that much more exciting because it was not only my debut in the city, but Katie’s as well.”

The show being not only Kawko’s debut as a producer, but also her New York Debut made the experience all the more rewarding, but it did come with added stress and pressure. Problems are to be expected in any production, but the team Kawko chose for this production allowed these problems to be handled gracefully. Even obstacles such as a performer dropping out less than a week prior to the show were not enough to discourage anyone on the cast or crew.

“No show ever goes exactly as planned,” Kawko said, “but all I could do was try my hardest and place my faith in the talented people I chose to go on this journey with me.”

Photo by Katie Kawko

Kawko at Cabaret debut

Photo by Katie Kawko

Poster for the show

Photo by Katie Kawko

Kawko giving final remarks

Stubbs’ also acknowledged that, while her preexisting friendship with Kawko was helpful in creating a comfortable environment early on, it was Kawko’s professionalism along with her love and respect for the craft that allowed the show to be as successful as

it was. Throughout it all, Kawko reminded herself that she is doing what she loves, despite how daunting the experience became at times.

“As long as you’re doing something you love,” Kawko said “everything else should come easily” n

Homecoming Athletics at Kean University 2023 continued from page 3

“I feel like we’ve been coming together and pushing each other more to work harder every day towards one common goal, a win,” Nungesser said. “We will all continue to push each other and get better every day.”

Meanwhile, the field hockey team will take the field after the football game to take on the University of Lynchburg in an out-of-conference matchup.

Kelsey Corbett is a junior returning midfielder for the Cougars. Last season, she recorded twenty points and a 78% shots on-goal percentage. Corbett is a catalyst on a team that’s currently number 12 nationally ranked.

“I am extremely proud of my team for being nationally ranked,” Corbett said. “On a team level, I want to get to our fullest potential.”

Corbett gives graces to each member of the team for putting in relentless effort during practice. The goal after

is to have hard work translate well into the game. The team thrives from the energy of each other.

“Individually, I’m always striving to get better, and I am dedicated to being the best teammate that I can be,” Corbett stated. “We pick gameday buddies and send nice messages to one another to motivate them for game day.”

Going forward, the outlook for the team is to uplift one another into victory, and being nationally ranked has been something that ignited the team further.

“Being nationally ranked serves as motivation for us to push even harder and demonstrate what Kean field hockey truly represents,” Corbett said.

The Cougars have an undefeated record of 4-0 all-time versus the University of Lynchburg. Corbett anchors that the team is aware of that and looks to continue that win streak.

“I knew that we were 4-0 versus the University of Lynchburg, but that doesn’t change our mindset going into the game,” Corbett said. “We always play the game, not the name. Regardless of the record, we play hard.”

Lastly, women’s soccer has the final game of the day.

They will go against the William Paterson University Pioneers in an NJAC matchup. The Cougars haven’t suffered a defeat to the Pioneers since 2018. Although, their matchup was an even 1-1 tie last season.

Last season, the Cougars finished with a record of 5-7-6 and an NJAC record of 2-3-4. This season, they’re looking to build off last year with returners such as juniors Sophia Lang and Sonya Brewer, as well as freshman additions Kaydence Oakley and Anabel Makutonin. n

We’ve Got Spirit, How About You? continued from page 3

collaborated with Danielle Felix, Caroline Gil, and Jada James to start the newly minted cheerleading club.

But you can’t have a strong team without a strong role model. So they set out to find a leader who could mediate, administrate, and motivate the club.

What seemed like a difficult search turned into an easy find when Adewole thought her Track coach would be the perfect fit.

Instantly after being approached with the idea, the first thing that came to mind was “Go for it; every good thing comes out of just giving it a try,” says Todman.

An uplifting coach who believes cheer will bring people out and boost morale for the University soon became the advisor of the first-ever cheer team at Kean University.

So far, these amazing young adults

have riled up an energetic group and hope to keep growing from here. The club will be practicing on a five-day basis and will be performing at the university sports events.

Both Todman and Adewole encourage any students interested in joining to stop by and give it a try.

“Just come and show what you have,” says Adewole.

The club welcomes students of all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned cheerleader or a complete novice.

“Give it a try, it might be the best thing you ever had. You might find people you never knew you needed,” says Todman.

So get excited because the Kean University cheer club is here to get you riled up and in the spirit of sportsmanship. n

September, 2023

THE TOWER 9

Board of Trustees Appoints Transformational Learning and Kean Online continued from page 2

NJ, said that it’s been a real success for students and specifically teenage boys.

“Anytime you give Kean students the opportunity to shine, they never disappoint. They meet the challenge every time,” Vazquez said.

Davis developed an idea that by giving back to the community it serves while using funds earned by the Port Authority to help create the pre-college program for the youth. The program included weekly field trips including trips to Newark Airport, Liberty Science Center, and the Kean Skylands.

President Lamont O. Repollet announces that U.S. News ranked Kean

University as #26 in top performers on social mobility. He thanked staff members for their contribution, hard work and dedication. In addition, Kean was ranked at #172 in top public schools out of 439 universities.

“Our mission as New Jersey’s first urban research university is to create a world-class innovative inclusive society,” Repollet said.

“For the first time in history, Forbes named Kean one of America’s best in-state employers,” Repollet said. Furthermore, he congratulates his team of employees for their outstanding work. n

“Spend some quiet time with yourself to develop your own signature, your own sense of self and develop your purpose and nurture your passion because it will speak so loudly on its own in a world where everyone is screaming for attention. Give yourself patience and time to yourself to develop that, all these people did that with their purpose and passion and being

residence program is to have an artist share a new body of work and connect with students through exponential learning opportunities.

“The visual storytelling in the galleries is a different way of learning, we tap into that mindset of the community and the public. It’s visualization, you’re seeing the stories come to life.” says Dr. Zimmerman.

Roig began the painting on Aug. 29, however, the prep work took four months of research and one month to get the components ready and to outline the mural.

Once completed, the mural will be displayed at the Human Rights Institute gallery with a video installation showcasing the figures from the mural and text panels to read. Students can pay a visit and take a look at the mural during art open days which are Monday through Friday from 10am to 4pm.

The gallery will officially be open to the public on Oct. 2 and will hold a reception on the evening of Oct. 12 from 5pm to 8pm that will be open to the Kean community and the public with a chance to meet Roig.

“Kean is on an incredible journey and we need to keep telling our story and we are and the voices are getting louder and more intense and interesting and people are starting to see it and understand that Kean is something amazing,” says Dr. Zimmerman. n

Human Rights Gallery Mural continued from page 5

the galleries on campus and Liberty Hall Academic Center collaborates with the institute, welcoming professional artists like Roig, and traveling exhibitions, faculty and student shows at the galleries.

The topic of the mural itself came about in a conversation with Dr. Zimmerman, Roig, and the Human Rights Institute on how they could share the mission of the Institute and how they could connect it to the artist in residence and to fine art.

Over the summer, students did a research project with aims to find the historical figures who put together this document. They also searched for individuals who have visited Kean through the annual conference that the Human Rights Institute hosts and came up with a list of over 100 people.

Dr. Zimmerman says, “It’s an incredibly important document that we want everyone to know about, be it students, faculty, or staff. Sometimes we forget things in history, we remember little bits and pieces but this brings it back, it's a good reminder that it’s still relevant.”

Dr. Zimmerman and Roig selected the figures that would be represented on the mural. Thirty one individuals were chosen to highlight a strong connection to Kean and New Jersey to celebrate the accomplishments of the university and the state.

Some of the people portrayed on the mural will be chef Tom Colicchio who

visited Kean and is an anti hunger activist.

Eric Legrand, a former football player at Rutgers, now a disability activist who was part of the human rights conference at Kean last year is also portrayed.

Martin Luther King Jr. who visited Kean in 1961 and Chamique Holdslaw, former WNBA player who is now a mental health advocate are all portrayed.

Photo by Brittany Fuentes

Human rights institute mural in the studio

Overcoming adversity is a link through every single person in the mural.

The mural is a snapshot of the work that those individuals have done in the past and continue to do now, which Roig hopes will inspire students at Kean to be a part of change and have a positive impact on the world.

of service to others.” says Roig.

The idea was that Roig could create a painting in real time on campus where classes could come by and watch him paint, interact with him and see his process. Initiating a collaboration between the artist and the students.

The key component for the artist in

10 THE TOWER September, 2023

Suicide Prevention Month: Find Your Anchor at Kean University continued from page 6

“Find Your Anchor is a community of strangers that care,” said Borowsky. “Giving out Anchor boxes is a self-fulfilling act and a pay-it-forward movement. meaning one does it out of love and care, expecting nothing in exchange and with the hopes that these boxes will be accessible to all in need.

“Morris Ave PRSSA is honored to collaborate with Find Your Anchor because we believe in their mission to support people with mental health in their time of need. Suicide prevention is such a personal movement to all of us and we’re honored to bring the Anchor boxes to Kean,” said Morris Ave PRSSA co-president Isabel Evans, who majors in public relations and minor in women and gender studies.

Riley Pond, co-president

“Education is awareness. As we educate ourselves regarding depression, suicide, and mental health overall, we can create a stronger campus community,” said Pond. of Morris Ave PRSSA in the Communications Graduate Program shared that their mission “hit home” for her.

“I’ve had problems regarding my mental health before.

Depression, suicide, feeling lost or hopeless — these aren’t limited to a specific community, these feelings impact us all,” said Pond.

“When you care for someone who is facing these issues, it’s hard to address. You don’t want them to feel like they’re in trouble for opening up to you. These boxes are an amazing gesture to show you care without the person

Photo by Angie Benitez

Find Your Anchor: Build A Box event hosted by Morris Ave PRSSA

feeling attacked.”

Following the nautical theme, the anchor boxes are blue. The

CEO had studied the calming effects of such and settled for a particular shade of cobalt blue.

“Inside these boxes are resources to seek mental health, such as different hotlines or websites. It includes a mixtape card with a playlist to help you feel better. There are motivational posters inside the box, pamphlets about Find Your Anchor, and you can personalize it by adding heartfelt notes or drawings to the boxes,” said Pond.

Morris Ave staff and e-board invited all Kean Students interested in getting together and

building anchor boxes with them in hopes of bringing students together and bonding over a good cause.

“We plan to have a scavenger hunt for students who need the encouragement of the Anchor boxes and invite all students to follow our social media platforms, where locations on campus will be revealed,” said Evans.

“Education is awareness. As we educate ourselves regarding depression, suicide, and mental health overall, we can create a stronger campus community,” added Pond, as a final message to Kean’s community to help save a life.

For more information regarding the organization, its mission, and its resources you can contact them directly on its website. n

WE DECLARE continued from page 5

Executive Director of Kean’s Liberty Hall Academic community know their strong advocacy for human rights. feelings without being shut down.

Center and Galleries, Lynette Zimmerman Ed.D, M.S., From this, students feel safe and able to express their Sofia Veloso, senior business management major and explained the mural's process. marketing minor at Kean, stated how critical the “We had students do research, so who has come making of the mural is for this event. to Kean, who are instrumental in New Jersey “I think it is important because of how modernand are advocating for human rights, disability day society is. There is so much going on in the world rights, LGBTIQQ+, civil rights, you name it,” and this is something that everyone can enjoy. I Zimmerman said. “Who’s doing it now and then think it is amazing how art can bring everyone also the historical figures that were prominent in together and this will bring human rights activists the creation of the document.” and people outside of it together,” Veloso said.

There is still a fight for human rights. There Students feel this equality and freedom that has been so much controversy as to why people's Kean encourages students to feel. They feel that rights aren’t valued and why there isn’t equality they value their rights and aren’t afraid to express among us. themselves.

So much is happening in society today. That Julia Indrawis, a senior majoring in business alone makes this event extremely meaningful to management, believes that Kean strongly the Kean community, especially since Kean is a advocates for human rights and feels that her rights diverse university. are valued.

Photo by Colten Gottlob Roig had explained what he hopes students feel “I believe they do value human rights. They have Artist-in-Residence Ricardo Roig when viewing the mural. a lot of events celebrating people and things and by “I want students to feel uplifted, empowered, showcasing this event they’re showing where their curious, and to let them know that their life priorities are,” Indrawis stated “I never felt that I matters, what they do matters, what they wasn’t valued as a person.” think matters,” Roig stated. “A person’s will can Veloso also expressed that her rights are valued definitely transcend time and to have faith that at Kean and that she feels comfortable expressing you’re here surrounded in the company of school herself. that is going to support that at every angle and “As a woman, yes I feel my rights are valued, as encourage your individuality, which is truly all we a student of course because I feel safe there and I have.” feel I can say how I feel without being shut down,” Photo by Colten Gottlob Kean University makes it necessary to let their “WE DECLARE” Mural Veloso stated. “I can express myself.” n

September, 2023

THE TOWER 11

New Opportunities in Sports Communication at Kean

continued from page 6

“It is a great time to be a student interested in a sports career at Kean University.”

Photo by Kean CMJ

Professor Schwab and Kean students at Sports Communication interest meeting

Jersey Devils NHL team. Kean offers classes and hands-on experiences with these professional sports teams.

Kean University and Professor Schwab are working to introduce a new Sports Minor to the program. This new minor

would acclimate students to the sports communication field before graduation.

These new additions to the sports communication program at Kean result from increased interest in the field.

With this, Kean is also starting a Sports Communication club and a Sports Broadcasting club this semester.

"I'm so happy that Kean is diving into the sports industry,” Professor Schwab said.

“The start of the sports broadcasting and communication club will lead to all kinds of opportunities and experiences for our students. The potential for exciting and sustainable careers in sports is right there for the taking, and our students have the

passion and drive needed to succeed in this rapidly changing industry."

Along with the sports minor and the two new sports-related clubs at Kean, there will also be a sports communication summit event in November. The summit will feature many individuals involved in the sports communication world who will talk to students about their experiences.

The exact date of this will be announced soon.

It is a great time to be a student interested in a sports career at Kean University. Many great opportunities are coming up to help gain experience and build your resume. n

COVID-19 is Real

continued from page 7

high fever.

We couldn’t go to the hospital with her due to COVID-19 guidelines, so we communicated with the staff through phone and video calls.

After arriving at the hospital, it wasn’t long until we got a call saying my grandmother had tested positive for COVID-19 and that we should all get tested.

Everyone in my household came back negative except me. I was freaking out and couldn’t believe what was happening.

At the time, there were no medicines or known remedies for the virus, and a vaccine did not exist. It was still so new, and many people were reportedly dying.

Suddenly, I thought I was going to die.

As the days passed, my symptoms got bad, but my grandmother was doing even worse. The doctors didn’t give us much reassurance, and once she became delirious, they talked about making her comfortable rather than being invasive due to her age, 86.

My mom didn’t want to accept what was happening since she wanted to hold out hope, but as the days went by, the family had to decide what to do.

We couldn’t go see her or talk to her because it would have required someone to be in the room with her.

They would run the risk of catching the virus. It was a complete nightmare.

The worst part was seeing my grandmother deteriorate so quickly through a cell phone camera, unable to be there for her. All I remember is her saying, “Get me out of here, I am going to die.”

Once she was diagnosed with pneumonia due to the virus being very aggressive in her body, and her feet started turning purple, my mom and her siblings made the harsh decision of making her comfortable instead of putting her on a ventilator.

According to what the doctor told us, most elderly people placed on ventilators didn’t make it and instead spent their last few days or hours uncomfortable.

A couple of hours after that decision was made, I received a phone call from the hospital with the news.

They said she had peacefully passed away.

I dreaded telling my mother the news; part of me was angry. I was angry that this was happening and angry at myself for not realizing how real COVID-19 truly is.

Due to COVID-19, we couldn’t make the usual arrangements to send her off properly. We weren’t allowed to have a funeral. Instead, we had to say our goodbyes from a distance, and only one person was

allowed to enter the cemetery for the burial.

Her body wasn’t even prepared for burial. Instead, she had to be placed in the casket with the bag the hospital sent her in due to the fear of the illness spreading since there wasn’t much knowledge of the virus yet.

It took a month just to bury her. When we finally did, I had to be the one to go by myself into the cemetery because my mother couldn’t bear to do it. The rest of her siblings were in the Dominican Republic.

This experience was traumatizing. Losing someone so quickly who was in good health must be one of the hardest experiences.

Regardless, this was an eye-opening moment for me.

Being ignorant of what’s happening in the world will never be a mistake again for me.

I believe that ignorance and people not taking COVID-19 as seriously as we should are probably the reasons why we were in the pandemic for as long as we were.

I know now that I will never again listen to the uninformed and pay attention to important news because, despite the naysayers, I learned the hardest way that COVID-19 was and is real. n

A Safe Space for Students

continued from page 7

of asking questions such as judging someone for having tattoos. After the students exchanged their thoughts, Kaplan clarified their role of remaining objective in their tasks. She said that the icebreaker leads to an academic feature

while explaining to the class what lies ahead regarding the genre while fostering a sense of community.

By prioritizing the student's need to interact with their classmates and professors, it opens up the possibilities

for meaningful conversations within the classroom. Introductions set the scene for students to express their hearts and minds freely.

Ensuring students are at ease in the classroom environment can drastically

alter their performance for the better.

It demands significant qualities, including open-mindedness, consideration, and bravery from the students, contributing to a willingness to be proactive classmates. n

SPORTS

12 THE TOWER September, 2023

NJAC Rookie of the Week Anabel Makutonin

By John DeFreitas It only took 121 seconds for Anabel Makutonin to make her presence known with a goal, slotted in the bottom right corner of the net, during the Kean Cougars’ home opener from Alumni Stadium.

It was Makutonin's brace (two goals in one game) that led her to earn the early season award for NJAC Rookie of the Week and led the team to a 2-1 victory over FDU-Florham.

“She made the right run, "said head coach Brian Doherty. “And two, you know, she put the chance away.”

“We went after her hard,” said Doherty. “We make it known that we want you to come if we want you to come, and we go see players multiple times, talk to them, talk to their parents.”

Not all players are recruited in the state, like outside back Isabel Quast who came from Elyria, Ohio to play for the Cougars. Quast ended up becoming roommates with Makutonin and glowingly spoke about some of Makutonin’s play in the midfield.

“I think especially playing in the back line, you can see a lot more field,” said Quast. “I think I just see her [Makutonin’s] movement…

“And nine times out of ten she’s breaking the back line, getting in, getting us chances…”

Photo by Kean Athletics

Anabel Makutonin won NJAC rookie of the week

With precision and power, Makutonin made no mistake scoring the first goal of the game against FDU-Florham with a one-hop shot from her left foot. This gave the Cougars their first lead of the season.

The Cougars would concede only a short time into the second half, presenting another hurdle for the team but also an opportunity.

Makutonin would be the first to step up for her team yet again.

With less than three minutes left in the second half and new rules dictating no overtime in the event of a draw, Makutonin made sure not to leave the game where it stood.

Off the reception of a pass from Lianna Quezeda, Makutonin split two defenders with an elusive touch and managed to beat a third defender through contact, before she unleashed a shot with her stalwart left foot again.

Makutonin’s drive would find the back of the net once more. This time towards the top left corner, allowing a celebration to ensue for a moment between her and the team. Any coach would love to see this kind of production in first-year athletes.

“She was just an all-around good attacking center midfielder when I saw her play,” Doherty said. “She was… making the appropriate passes, making good decisions, setting teammates up for success.”

Doherty recognized Makutonin as a smart player with a very high soccer IQ. Makutonin mentioned a time when Doherty came to see her play in one of her tournaments during high school.

“Brian actually came to two of my tournaments,” said Makutonin.

“Then when I came to Kean, the campus was beautiful, Brian really showed me around and I could tell the team chemistry was better than what I saw at the other schools [I visited].”

Photo by Larry Levanti

Isabel Quast

Photo by Larry Levanti

Head coach Brian Doherty

Especially her overlapping runs with forwards. I see her doing those give-and-goes with forwards all the time. And nine times out of ten she’s breaking the back line, getting in, getting us chances.”

The on-field product from Makutonin has been strong, which has been echoed by her coach and teammate, but all three brought up a variable outside of what happens on the field, team chemistry.

“We always come back around and pick each other back up,” said Quast. “And we don’t really have any cliques on the team... It’s a really good environment.”

Quast spoke more about their chemistry and a motto that the team is living out on and off the pitch: “Play for Her.” “We’re all going through the same thing and we’re all there for each other and we’re all trying to do it with a smile on our face,” said Quast.

“It’s our job to play for each other. If we can’t play for ourselves, we’re gonna do it for the person next to us.”

With strong home performances and consistent chemistry amongst seemingly all levels of the team, the Kean Cougars Women’s soccer team will look to rely on strong play not only from the junior and senior class but also budding talents like freshman Makutonin.

After already being named NJAC rookie of the week, Makutonin still strives for more from herself in the future.

“I’m looking to really be a team player, but also be able to score goals for the team because that’s just how you win games,” said Makutonin.

“Brian tells me a lot, every time before I step on the field, he’s like, ‘Go score a goal, go score a goal, you know you can do it.’” n