The Villanovan | Volume 113, Issue 10: Wednesday, November 17, 2021

WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 17, 2021 www.villanovan.com @thevillanovan

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VOLUME 113 | ISSUE 10

SGA Meeting Addresses Slur

Men’s Soccer Qualifies for NCAA College Cup

Jackie Thomas Staff Writer

On Nov. 10, the University Student Government Senate held its first public meeting since the resignation of a freshman Senator on Nov. 4 following their alleged use of a racial slur directed toward another student.

The allegation and resulting resignation—referred to as “what happened last week,” “the incident” and “the situation we’ve all heard about”

by Senators throughout the meeting—prompted the attendance of several members of the wider university community, notably including around 15 members of the Villanova Black Student Union and BSU President Mia Arrington, who detailed the motivation behind the BSU’s presence.

“We’re here in light of recent events to express solidarity with Black students on campus,” Arrington said. “We want more answers and more action from the school.”

Following the meeting’s routine procedures, the Senate opened the floor to Arrington and other BSU members for comments and questions.

In her opening remarks, Arrington emphasized the situation’s increased gravity due to the former senator’s platform and leadership role.

She added that this role makes a swift and significant University response, beyond just the removal of the individual from their Senate role, even more necessary.

“This incident was between two people, but it was representative of so much more,” Arrington said, adding that this use Continued on p. 10

Villanova men’s soccer has been selected to be a part of the 2021 NCAA College Cup. Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

Owen Hewitt Staff Writer

Villanova men’s soccer has been selected to be a part of the 2021 NCAA College Cup. The ‘Cats received an at-large bid in the field of 48, which was announced live on NCAA.com Monday afternoon. The Wildcats will travel to Burlington to take on the Vermont Catamounts in the first round of the tournament on Nov. 18. The tournament berth is the program’s second all-time, the first coming in the 2016 season.

The Catamounts, who went 13-4-2 this season, upset New Hamp-

shire in the America East championship game, 1-0, to secure their spot in the College Cup. It was easily the most impressive win of the Catamounts’ season, as it was then-sixth ranked UNH’s first loss of the season.

The Wildcats and the Catamounts have never met in a match but did have two common opponents this year. The Wildcats had two America East foes, Hartford and Albany, on their home schedule.

The ‘Cats picked up a 2-1 win against Hartford in late August and dropped a match to Albany, 1-0, in September. The Catamounts beat both Hartford

and Albany in conference play at home later in the season, both wins by a 2-0 scoreline. The two squads are fairly evenly matched in terms of RPI, with the Wildcats coming in at 28th and the Catamounts at 30th.

The tournament is structured so that the top 16 teams receive automatic berths into the second round, while the rest of the teams go unseeded.

The tournament selection committee chooses which teams will host the first round games, and the top 16 teams host second round matchups. Of the 16 teams hosting first round games, six have lower RPI

rankings than the Wildcats, including the Catamounts.

“I thought our body of work showed that we were deserving,” head coach Tom Carlin said to Villanova Athletics. “We were kind of on the fence whether we were going to be at home or on the road. Nonetheless, we were excited to see our name up there on the screen.

We were close to getting a home game, but I also knew in the back of my mind that we have been better on the road.”

The Wildcats have been decisively more effective away from home this season, posting an away record of 6-3-1, logging Continued on p. 12

University Athletes Profit Off Sponsorships Elena Rouse

Co-Culture Editor

Sponsorships and brand endorsements are no longer confined to the professional athletes, as a new rule passed this summer marked a transformation in the world of college athletics.

In July 2021, the NCAA announced the Name, Image and Likeness policy, or NIL, that allows student athletes across all divisions to make money or profit off of

their athletic and celebrity status.

College athletes can now promote sponsored content on social media, garner

endorsements and make money off of personal appearances.

With its Division One athletics, Villanova houses a multitude of athletes who

Junior golfer Matt Minerva is sponsored by Titleist.

Courtesy of Villanova University Golf

jumped at the new opportunity to gain sponsorships and make a profit.

Junior golfer Matt Minerva is one of those athletes, having partnerships with companies since the age of fifteen.

“I’ve been a Titleist athlete since I was fifteen,” Minerva said. “I emailed a representative saying I love using their stuff after I qualified for the U.S. Junior Amateur.”

Once Minerva made contact, he secured a relationContinued on p. 13

Kyle Rittenhouse Trial p. 3

U.S. Lifts Travel Restrictions p. 4

The Laundry Service at Villanova Needs to Change p. 5

Astroworld Tragedy p. 6

SAMOSA to Host Multicultural Show Junoon p. 8

Villanova Student Publishes Book “Voter Z” p. 9

Villa-Vogue: 2021 CFDA Fashion Show p. 10

Red (Taylor’s Version) Review p. 12

Three Players Officially Commit to ‘Cats p. 13

Wildcats to Face Delaware in Season Finale p. 15

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PUBLIC SAFETY BLOTTER

VOL. 113 | ISS. 10 www.villanovan.com @thevillanovan

CATE McCUSKER JACK ROBERGE MADISON BURKE ARIANA MEGERIAN SARAH SWEENEY SARAH WISNIEWSKI TINA ARON VIVI MELKONIAN A.J. FEZZA ELENA ROUSE CHLOE MILLER COLIN BEAZLEY BILLY VINCI MOLLY BAKER

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Theft of Services November 7 I-1 Main Lot Garage The following male resident student was charged with Theft of Services for failing to pay parking fees as well as Trespass by Motor Vehicle after having been previously advised he was no longer permitted to park on University property.

Criminal Mischief November 6 Stanford Hall Resident Director reported damaged exit signs within the D wing of Stanford Hall.

Police and Facilities responded.

Criminal Mischief November 6 McGuire Hall A resident assistant reported two unknown males had damaged a bulletin board outside of her room.

Burglary-Unlawful Entry (No Force) Theft by Unlawful Taking or Disposition November 6 McGuire Hall A female resident student reported two unknown males had entered her residence hall room without permission and removed an item from the room before fleeing the scene.

Factual errors are corrected as soon as they are brought to The Villanovan’s attention. Please send an e-mail to villanovan.eic@gmail.com to report errors.

279

20 21.52K

Cumulative Cas- Estimated Active es (from 8/17) Cases

Continued from p.1

Frankie....obviously. Anyone know when he is coming back to Villanova?

CORRECTIONS

Confirmed Cumulative Cases as of 8:00 P.M. Tuesday, November 16

Residential Students

“Who’s your favorite Jonas Brothers member?”

“My girlfriend has literally not stopped obsessing over Taylor Swift’s album and how much she hates Jake Gyllenhaal. I’m going crazy. What do I do?”

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of a racial slur on campus indicates greater institutional issues at Villanova and amongst predominantly white institutions in general.

In response to several of Arrington’s initial questions and comments, Speaker of the Senate Lauren Amoo explained that further disciplinary action against the former Senator would not be made public both due to standing University disciplinary policy. Amoo also clarified that the SGA’s somewhat restrained public response rested in the victim’s wishes for privacy on the matter.

Freshman BSU members Asata Mander, Reme Hart and Kentron White spoke up after Arrington, calling for more exposure to the issue and concrete action to address the community’s perceived apathy towards the matter. Mander suggested that the SGA should increase vetting and educating efforts for electees to avoid another instance of apparent racism in student leadership.

White added that the Senate’s supportive statements were a step in the right direction but stressed that words were not enough, asserting that it is the SGA’s duty to push for strong disciplinary action in this case and broader change on campus.

“Take these words, take these feelings and truly work towards a better future here at Villanova,” White said, addressing the Senate.

Sophomore Mia Bryant also brought up the issue of the resigned Senator’s possible reelection in future years. She emphasized that they should not be able to hold such a leadership position again to discourage an environment that accepts this

Total Number of Tests (from 8/17)

36

Watch All Too Well, the short film. Cry. Repent for this question. Tell her Jake should have returned the scarf and that’s it. To all the girls out there, if your boyfriend is a Jake Gyllenhaal sympathizer...dump him. Fast.

“Why is Villanova beginning to decorate for Christmas when we haven’t even had Thanksgiving yet?”

We want to say it’s because they’re proactive, but maybe they just hate Thanksgiving? Who knows honestly.

Personally, I start listening to Christmas music as soon as it hits November, so I fully support the decorations.

Employees

behavior on campus.

SGA Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Kristian Olvera responded to the speakers and meeting at large in support of the BSU and categorically condemned the actions of the former senator.

He spoke to the importance of open communication between student organizations like the BSU and the Student Government, adding that he welcomed suggestions and concerns to improve DEI in the SGA and on campus.

Olvera also brought up the SGA’s new effort to cultivate open

discussion about racial discrimination inclusion at Villanova through “Diversity Chats,” the first of which was held Nov. 9 and will continue on a weekly basis going forward.

Senate Speaker Lauren Amoo echoed Olvera’s supportive sentiments.

“I stand here both as Speaker and as a Black woman on campus,” Amoo said, adding to the BSU contingent. “I fill this role to speak for you, for people that look like us.”

As the meeting came to a close, the focus remained on increased communication and transparency

On Friday November 5th, SGA released a public statement addressing the incident.

Courtesy of Villanova University Student Government Association

between University administration and the student body surrounding the disciplinary process going forward, a sentiment the BSU reiterated in a statement released Nov. 10.

“We want the University to take disciplinary action against the student involved, as well as be transparent with the entire student body about the process and the result of the case, due to the fact that we have all been affected by this matter,” the statement read.

According to Amoo, the application and process to fill the Senate vacancy is a top priority and the SGA hopes to do so by Thanksgiving break or immediately thereafter.

On Tuesday evening, The Villanovan received a statement from the University, surrounding the incident.

“This matter was referred to the University for resolution under the Code of Student Conduct. Based upon University policy and student privacy laws, all matters related to individual Code of Student Conduct procedures are considered confidential. As an Augustinian Catholic institution, Villanova strives to live the University’s motto of Veritas, Unitas, Caritas—Truth, Unity and Love— and to be a welcoming and inclusive community. Any instance of racism, bigotry or intolerance runs counter to the University’s values and individuals acting counter to these values are held accountable.”

This remains a developing story and will be updated as new information emerges.

Wednesday, November 17, 2021

NEWS

The Villanovan | 3

CLAS Hosts Undergraduate Research Symposium love. His exploration culminated in a paper titled “Coalescent Love: A Philosophical and Psychological Exploration of the Phenomenon of Love.”

“I survey contemporary social

The College of Liberal Arts psychology literature and consider and Sciences invited undergraduate philosophers such as Aristotle, Aquistudents that conducted research at nas and Nygren in order to demonVillanova over the summer to presstrate my thesis, namely, that both selfent their findings to other students, love and altruism are key components faculty and staff and members of the of love,” Mitala explained. community on Friday, Nov. 12. These Mitala explained that he dedstudents were awarded grants through icated months to researching, writing a rigorous application process that and editing his paper. When asked helped fund their research supplies how he conducted his research, he reand travel costs. plied, “I read… a ton. I would spend

These opportunities were most days reading for a few hours, sponsored by Villanova’s Center for then transitioning to writing.”

Research and Fellowships (CRF),

Paul Camacho of Villanova’s which offers various programs for un- Humanities Department introduced dergraduate research on campus. The Mitala to the philosophy of love and Villanova Undergraduate Research mentored his research project.

Fellows (VURF) Summer Program,

“Dr. Camacho assisted with the CRF Summer Housing Award the philosophy bibliography and I and CRF Research and Travel Grant discovered the psychology theory, Recipients aided students in exploring ‘Love as Mutual Communal Respontheir topic fully, and professors mensiveness’ on my own,” Mitala said. tored the students throughout their

He plans to present his findinvestigation and writing process. ings at conferences in the spring and

Jason Mitala received both a shared some of his key takeaways.

CRF Housing Award and the Mc “Self-love is a good thing, Cullen Center’s Research Fellowship don’t love people just because you like to fund his research. The monetary them and always love people, never resources from these grants, alongside statistics,” Mitala said. online academic journals and books

His paper is being published from Falvey’s bookstacks, gave him in “Veritas,” Villanova’s Undergraduample access to all of the information ate Research Journal. he needed to conduct his exploration.

Amanda Allender spent her

Mitala’s research surrounded summer researching in a biochemistry the philosophy and psychology of Kathryn Fair Staff Writer

lab with Aimee Eggler. She has been investigating Nrf2, a transcription factor in cells that is integral in a cell’s response to oxidative stress.

“When Nrf2 accumulates in the nucleus, it binds to the antioxidant response element (ARE), which then regulates antioxidant and anti-inflammatory disease,” Allender explained.

“Specifically, the research I presented at the symposium focused on how combinations of small molecule Nrf2 activating electrophiles and the molecule KI696 can affect the ARE response in cells, with specific combinations having a more than additive effect on the ARE (a phenomenon known as synergy) and other combinations having an antagonistic effect.”

“Eggler has been a great research mentor and advisor to me. She is attentive to her research students and has given me great guidance and advice in my research experience. I met Dr. Eggler during my freshman year at Villanova and began to become involved with the Eggler Research Group during my sophomore year. My research has become such a key part of my identity at Villanova, and I am so thankful for the opportunities that she has given me in her lab, and for her continued guidance and support of my research and academic goals.”

Allender’s days in the research lab varied each day.

“Since my lab works with live cells, I like to joke that whenever

I am running experiments, I am on ‘cell time’ because specific treatments and harvests need to happen at exact hour points (such as 18 or 30 hours),” Allender said.

Throughout the day, she would investigate results from her previous experiments, read publications about methods and pathways she was studying and sit with Eggler to discuss her recent findings and future directions.

Allender displayed a detailed poster at the CLAS Symposium and shared some of her key takeaways from her research.

“Specific combinations of small molecules can have a synergistic (and sometimes, antagonistic) effect on ARE response in cells,” Allender said. “Synergy is an important concept in the world of Nrf2 activators because not only does it give insight into potential other targets of small molecules in the pathways involved in antioxidant response but can also give insight for widening the therapeutic window of these small molecules, some of which are currently used in clinical trials or marketed as therapeutics.”

Mitala and Allender’s research endeavors were just a fraction of all of the incredible undergraduates that participated in the CLAS Research Symposium. Each student at the event expressed passion for their research and a drive to continue to pursue their topics.

Kyle Rittenhouse Trial Begins in Kenosha, WA Lydia McFarlane Staff Writer

Amid the racial reckoning and unrest during the summer of 2020 came another heartbreaking tragedy to round out the summer—teenager Kyle Rittenhouse killed two men and injured one other in a shooting during a Black Lives Matter protest in response to an act of police brutality just two days before.

On Aug. 23, 2020, Jacob Blake was nearly killed by seven shots to his side from a Kenosha, Wisconsin police officer.

Miraculously, he survived and now suffers from lower body paralysis as a result of the police shooting. Already in a heated sociopolitical climate as a result of the George Floyd murder at the beginning of the summer of 2020, protests soon followed the incident in Kenosha.

On the second night of protests following the Blake shooting, Rittenhouse was responding to a local car dealer’s call for help in protecting his business in the case that the protests turned into riots for a second night.

When asked by a reporter why he was at the dealership that night, Rittenhouse responded, “So, people are getting injured, and our job is to protect this business. Part of my job is also to help people. If there is somebody hurt, I’m running into harm’s way.

That’s why I have my rifle because I have to protect myself, obviously.

I also have my med kit.”

Shortly after leaving the

car dealership, Rittenhouse got into several major confrontations, resulting in the deaths of Joseph Rosenbaum and Anthony Huber, and the injuring Gaige Grosskreutz. On Aug. 26, 2020, Rittenhouse turned himself in in his home state of Illinois on charges of first degree intentional homicide.

After more than a year, on Nov. 1, 2021, Kyle Rittenhouse’s official homicide trial in Kenosha County, Wisconsin began.

The jury of this case must decide whether Rittenhouse’s actions were reasonable acts of self-defense or criminal acts of murder in order to convict him.

On Tuesday, Nov. 9, the prosecutors rested their case after calling 22 witnesses to testify, as well as showing never before seen drone footage of Rittenhouse shooting and killing Rosenbaum at close range. The witnesses included Grosskreutz, the lone survivor of the Rittenhouse shootings back in 2020, and several other people who showed up armed to the protests as Rittenhouse had.

Grosskreutz admitted to being armed during his altercation with Rittenhouse.

When asked by the prosecutor why he did not shoot Rittenhouse first, Grosskreutz replied, “That’s not the kind of person that I am. That’s not why I was out there. It’s not who I am. And definitely not somebody I would want to become.”

It wasn’t until Grosskreutz raised his gun that Rittenhouse fired at him. Grosskreutz emotionally remembered that night in court. He said he believed Rit-

tenhouse was an active shooter, and he was just doing his best to protect those around him. When asked what was going through his mind in those moments, Grosskreutz revealed, “That I was going to die.”

On Wednesday, Nov. 10, Rittenhouse himself took the stand, where he broke down upon questioning from his lawyers. His lawyers’ argument is that Rittenhouse was defending himself in killing those two men and injuring one, in an attempt to get him off without serious charges.

“I didn’t do anything wrong. I defended myself,” Ritten-

house said in court on Wednesday.

Following Wednesday’s emotionally charged day in court, as of Thursday, Nov. 11, the defense case has been rested and closing arguments took place Monday, Nov. 15. After gaining widespread national attention and media coverage, Rittenhouse’s trial is sure to stay in the public eye and at the center of American news.

This case encapsulates the sociopolitical heat of the summer of 2020, bringing into light questions of identity, race, white supremacy, gun control and many other widely contested topics.

Rittenhouse killed two men and injured another.

Courtesy of ABC News

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Wednesday, November 17, 2021

U.S. Lifts International Travel Restrictions After Nearly 20-Month Entry Ban Julia Butch Staff Writer

After a nearly 20-month long entry ban, the U.S. has lifted travel restrictions for vaccinated foreign travelers, causing a surge of travel.

According to Customs and Border Protection, 206,990 international travelers arrived at American airports on Nov 8., just shy of pre-pandemic numbers. The most significant airport rushes took place in New York, Miami and other major cities.

The institution of the new policy has led to questions regarding its potential impact on the spread of the virus in the United States and whether a surge in travelers from abroad can be managed without incident.

Francis A. Galgano, Ph.D., Associate Professor in the Department of Geography and the Environment, teaches medical geography at the University and has a comprehensive understanding of the pandemic and, what he calls, “absorbing barriers.”

Absorbing barrier is a term that can be applied broadly and generally means a point of im-

penetrability. In medical terms, it can be described as a prevention measure aimed at curbing transmission.

“When you look at the pandemic, diseases spread in a number of ways – expansion diffu-

sion,” Galgano said. “The vaccine is an example of an absorbing barrier, and it serves as a functional absorbing barrier to prevent the disease, just like a travel restriction. Various communities, political and scientific, have de-

International travelers arrive back in the U.S. Courtesy of CNBC News

cided that the combination of the vaccine and lower virus rates has reduced risk from travel.”

While Galgano said it is hard to predict how people will respond or whether it will cause a surge in transmission, he said, “(officials) are using well established protocols and (he) trust(s) in their judgement.”

He noted that this move will likely stimulate the economy, get the airlines back on their feet and boost tourism.

Foreign travelers greatly stimulate the economy, and during the pandemic this source of economic support has been severely constricted.

According to Trading Economics, “international tourism receipts decreased by roughly 63 percent in 2020 over the previous year, amounting to around 538 billion U.S. dollars.” The government and businesses alike hope that the reintroduction of foreign travel can safely restimulate what has been a dormant part of the economy.

Professor Galgano trusts that officials have “made a risk calculation that the vaccination numbers and reduction of transmission of the delta variant will allow travel and the economy to get back on track.”

UK Will Host UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) in Glasgow Jackie Thomas Staff Writer

ond day.

“It’s time to say ‘enough,’” Guterres said. “Enough of treating nature like a toilet. Enough of

Leaders and representatives burning and drilling and mining from countries and groups around our way deeper. We are digging the world met starting Oct. 31 in our own graves.”

Glasgow, Scotland for the two Many global leaders, inweek-long COP26 conference, a cluding U.S. President Joe Biden, round of climate talks organized acknowledged and echoed Guby the United Nations aimed toterres’s call to action for substanward finding substantial, internative agreements. However, many tional solutions to climate change. activists and members of the

Members of the Villanova global community lacked conficommunity are among those in at- dence in the talks, recalling the tendance, including faculty memshortcomings of agreements like bers from the Political Science the 2005 Kyoto Protocol or 2015 department and M. Louise FitzParis Agreement coming out of patrick College of Nursing. Ruth similar conferences in the past.

McDermott-Levy, Ph.D., MPH,

Despite public doubts, RN, FAAN is attending COP26 in delegates reached several key conjunction with the Alliance of deals in the first week of meetings, Nurses for Healthy Environments including an agreement by more and expressed her hope for change than 100 countries to halt and rein public discourse and action verse deforestation by 2030, a deal surrounding the climate. signed by 25 countries (as of Nov.

“We must have the courage 6) to stop financing fossil fuel projto change the way we live, generects abroad by 2022 and a plan to ate energy, address climate adapta- phase out the use of coal endorsed tion and interact with one anothby 23 countries on Thursday. er,” McDermott-Levy said, noting Notably, about 100 nations the importance of these steps both and participating parties agreed globally and at the University. to the Global Methane Pledge

The conference, comprison Tuesday, an agreement to cut ing more than 130 world leaders, methane emissions by 30% by thousands of diplomats and many 2030, a move with the potential scientific and economic experts, to slow the current trajectory of takes place as the world sees global climate devastation worldwide and temperatures, greenhouse gas which has garnered global supemissions and climate-related diport. sasters at all-time highs. U.N. Sec- “This is the first global retary-General Antonio Guterres commitment on reducing the stressed the necessity for action potent greenhouse gas methane, in his address to the international and it’s an incredible step forcommunity on the summit’s secward,” said Clean Air Task Force

program director Sarah Smith.

“Presidents and prime ministers standing up and recognizing that reducing methane is the strongest lever we can pull to rapidly and substantially reduce the rate of warming.”

While these and other moves so far in the conference amount to progress toward addressing the climate crisis, many argue that the agreements lack the necessary substance, urgency and legitimacy to serve as serious solutions.

The Global Methane Pledge, for example, lacks the support of China, Russia and India, who together account for about a third of methane emissions globally, as well as Australia, which is also among the top 10 emitting countries.

This lack of substantial universal consensus alongside overly-generous deadlines and the exclusion of activist voices at the

summit led to massive protests in Glasgow and globally throughout the weekend. Tens of thousands marched in Glasgow, with notable climate activists like Greta Thunberg and Vanessa Nakate.

“Leaders rarely have the courage to lead,” Nakate told protesters, urging individual accountability and action for the cause. “It takes citizens, people like you and me, to rise up and demand action.

And when we do that in great enough numbers, our leaders will move.”

As the conference continues and concludes, its success will be measured by the degree of enforcement of the major new pledges and agreements. The international community will either abide by new emissions and resource accords, significantly addressing climate change for the first time or, as activists fear, states will continue to lack the drive for legitimate, urgent action.

Officials speak on a panel at the summit.

Courtesy of Getty Images

Wednesday, November 17, 2021

The Villanovan | 5

OPINION

OPINION

Fall Festival: The Best Weekend on Villanova’s Campus Isabella Balian Staff Writer

Villanova’s student-run Special Olympics Fall Festival was unable to happen last year, but this year’s festivities definitely made up for it.

As I attended my first Fall Festival this year, I am finally able to understand why it can be recognized as one of the best weekends on campus. Before becoming a student at Villanova, I had heard about the excitement surrounding its student-run Special Olympics and the sense of community it brought to campus, and this weekend confirmed that.

Months of hard work, planning and community involvement were vital to the success of this weekend’s Fall Festival. After participating in the Fall Festival this year, it was no surprise that the Special Olympics on campus serves to be the largest student run Special Olympics in the world.

The Special Olympics organization serves as a way for individuals with intellectual disabilities to participate in athletic competitions and connect with teammates, volunteers and coaches and serves Villanova’s vital mission of inclusion.

I felt that this event fulfilled Villanova’s mission and was an inclusive and incredible opportunity for community bonding.

The University’s participation in Special Olympics dates back to 1979 and has continued ever since then.

More than 1,000 athletes and 5,000 volunteers participate to make the Fall Festival a meaningful experience for everyone involved. There were many opportunities for athletes to participate in sports such as bocce, long distance running/walking, powerlifting, roller skating, soccer and volleyball.

Villanova’s student volunteers do an incredible job transforming the campus into an Olympic style venue for the weekend, which makes this one of the best weekends to hang around campus. The quad is transformed into the Olympic Village for the weekend as a place for athletes to dance, spend time together and participate in student-led activities. Along with the quad, there are banners and colorful signs in front of the Oreo and all around campus.

Many of the University’s student clubs participated in the Olympic Village hosting activities, food booths and games for the ath-

letes. It was amazing to see all of the different student organizations coming together to serve the community in an inclusive manner.

Throughout the weekend, the excitement and joy the athletes brought to the table was unreal, and they demonstrated incredible teamwork and camaraderie.

The energy demonstrated by my fellow student volunteers was also an unmatched and unforgettable sight. Student volunteers were able to come together by collectively celebrating the athletes, and creating an energetic and fun atmosphere for everyone.

This weekend was a great opportunity to bond with fellow Villanova students over similar passions of service and inclusion.

Jeanine Aquino, a senior student volunteer on the Special Olympics Committee, reflected on why she believes Fall Festival is one of the best weekends on Villanova’s campus.

“I couldn’t have asked for a better experience at my last Fall Fest,” Aquino said. “The best part for me was being reunited in person with athletes who we have not seen on our campus in at least two years due to COVID. They bring so much love, light and energy to Fall Fest, and we definitely missed that going virtual last year. In ad-

dition, this year I had the honor of leading 116 Local Program Hosts alongside Pat Slattery, Kaitlyn Martchek and Victoria Brus, and watching the LPHs foster such genuine, meaningful connections with the athletes and become part of their county’s family gives me a sense of pride that is indescribable.

Fall Fest has an unparalleled ability to bring everyone together — from athletes to coaches to Villanova students to off campus visitors — to celebrate pure love, joy and, most importantly, inclusion.

It truly transforms our campus into the happiest little place on earth. I am extremely proud and grateful to have been a part of the Villanova Special Olympics for my four years here and cannot wait to see all the joy and love it brings for years to come.”

Participating in the Special Olympics as a student volunteer has definitely been one of my best experiences so far at Villanova, and I am beyond excited to participate next year. As a Villanovan, I take pride in knowing that I was able to participate in such a meaningful and inclusive event, so the 6 a.m. wake up was most definitely worth it.

The Laundry System at Villanova Needs to Change

better than the current situation and would help alleviate some of the congestion during high utility times, like weekends.

The number of machines is

Many students have experi- not the only issue. The quality of enced the following situation: you notice that your hamper is getting the machines leaves something to full and you have some downtime, be desired as well. The main issue with the washers is their size. I go so you decide to do laundry. You through an average amount of grab your stuff and trudge down laundry per week, and my hamper to the laundry room only to find is usually three quarters full, but that all the machines are taken. if you have a slightly bigger than Frustration washes over you, you yell in anger, cursing a certain ad- average load, good luck having ministrative figure before storming your stuff actually washed. I have had to wash things twice because off back to your dorm, grumbling they did not smell clean after just along the way, not knowing when those sweaty socks of yours will be one cycle or split a single load up into two machines, which happens able to be made un-sweaty. to cost more, but I’ll bring that up

I do not understand how later. our laundry situation is so inad The dryers also have their equate. I live in Good Counsel fair share of issues. Even on a low Hall, which has 60-70 freshmen on each floor, with a total of three heat setting, they are ludicrously hot. One gets sixty minutes of floors. On each floor, there is a drying time, but when I show up grand total of (drum roll please) four washers and four dryers. That 20-25 minutes later to take my clothes out, they are hot to the is a jaw-dropping ratio of ~16.25 touch. But, this can be inconsistent people per washer or dryer and can be significantly higher in large as well based on the size of the load. If one has a slightly bigger halls like Stanford, Sheehan and than average load, not all of the Sullivan. Good luck finding an clothes will dry. After having to open machine during your free check in on them before the cycle time. I do my laundry at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, and even then, usual- is done, one will notice that the clothes on the outside are hotter ly half or so of the machines are than one’s celebrity crush, and taken. the clothes on the inside might as

With the size of the launwell not have been put in the dryer dry rooms, the washers could at all. This leaves one having to certainly be double stacked like the dryers. In this case, there could take a bunch of stuff out and leave the rest to continue drying. And be six washers and six dryers in each room, which would bring the I swear, nearly everything gets wrinkled. Strangely enough, my machine to freshman ratio down button-up shirts get away scot free, to ~10.833 for a building like but my t-shirts, athletic clothing Good Counsel. This is certainly Carter Smith Staff Writer

Good Counsel houses 240 freshman on South Campus.

Courtesy of Villanova University

and even my pants get wrinkled by that dryer, which I have to remedy by spending half a minute fanning out or pressing every single thing by hand.

Everything I’ve listed above balloons laundry time by an extra half hour or so. But there is still one pain point left: the cost of laundry.

Unlike printing, for which we are given a $100 budget, the cost of doing laundry comes out of our own pockets. If it were something trivial like 25-50 cents, I do not think people would be upset. However, since the cost is one and a half dollars per machine, that is a problem. If you’re a logical human being, you separate your lights and darks into separate washes, which means paying for two cycles, totaling three dollars.

Then, you really only need one dryer, because it gives you a ludicrous amount of time compared to

its heat output, which brings your grand total for one load of laundry to four dollars and fifty cents, even higher if you find that you need to re-wash something because it did not get clean enough.

Out of all the things that Villanova can charge us for, why the laundry? Everybody needs to do laundry, and if one needs to do any more than a single load per week, that will be a not insignificant drain on your NovaBucks, especially when many people have a limited amount and rely on points to buy things around campus. I feel like that if we are going to be charged that much for laundry, we should have access to modern machines which actually function well and have more supply.

If anybody with the power to fix this is reading: the laundry situation here needs fixing so we can start a new cycle of cleanliness.

6 | The Villanovan

EDITORIAL BOARD

LETTERS TO THE EDITORS

The Villanovan encourages all members of the Villanova community to voice their opinions. LetEditor-in-Chief ters to the editors may be submitted via e-mail to villanovan.eic@gmail.com. Letters must not Associate Editor-in-Chief exceed 500 words and must be signed. No anonymous letters will be published. All submissions beOpinion Editor come property of The Villanovan and are subject Opinion Editor to editing for clarity and space.

CATE McCUSKER Editor-in-Chief JACK ROBERGE MADISON BURKE TINA ARON VIVI MELKONIAN

Wednesday, November 17, 2021

OPINION

POLICY

The unsigned editorial that appears is the opinion of The Villanovan as determined by the majority of the Editorial Board. Other columns, letters and artwork represent the opinions of their authors and do not necessarily reflect the position of The Villanovan.

Astroworld Tragedy: Is Live Nation to Blame? how music festivals are organized as well as how much attention is truly allotted to effective emergency response procedures.

Music festivals are supposed Erin Costa to be fun.

Governors Ball, Made in Staff Writer America, Rolling Loud, Coachella and more are staple events that

A tenth victim was deattract people from all over the clared dead in the wake of the country and beyond. Lineups are 2021 Astroworld Festival. In what posted on social media, prompting the New York Times is defining as people to hurry to buy wristbands “one of the deadliest crowd-control and see performances by many disasters at a concert in the United popular artists. In the aftermath of States in many years,” Astroworld A vigil was held outside the Astroworld venue following the ninth death.

Astroworld, though, how safe are has sparked great outrage. The Courtesy of New York Times these festivals really? If we can not extensive harm to attendees can be trust emergency response organizshould be able to expect a high at Astroworld, NPR noted how it partially attributed to the actions ers to plan for situations like this, it of Travis Scott because of his lack level of professionalism and organi- addressed tornadoes, heat, bomb is important to discuss the possible zation. However, despite being one threats, earthquakes and active of intervention, which has led to deadly outcomes that could arise at people to criticize him for careless- of the biggest live event planners in shooters. However, it failed to ansimilar festivals. the world, it has a long history of ticipate dangerous crowd surges. ness and promoting rowdy behav Every year, Villanova safety violations and lawsuits.

Given Scott’s performance ior. students attend music festivals,

Houston Public Media history and his tendency to insti The complicity of Scott with the Philadelphia based music attributes many deadly incidents to gate crowds, how could a company regarding the deaths of these vicfestival Made In America a popular Live Nation, including a 2011 stage tasked with emergency response for tims is obvious. However, greater event.

This past September, Made collapse at a Sugarland concert in a Travis Scott concert not account attention needs to be paid toward in America hosted massive stars Indiana. Live Nation is linked to for unruly audiences? It ignored the event organizer, Live Nation. like Justin Beiber, Doja Cat and upwards of 200 deaths and 750 crowd crushes, moshing and stage As an American global entertaininjuries during its events. OSHA diving, all of which occur frequent- Roddy Rich, leading to a crowd of ment company, Live Nation has ly at Scott’s shows. The closest Live 50,000 people. Many students atbeen responsible for hosting events (Occupational Safety and Health tended the event without questionAdministration) has filed numerNation came to addressing crowd for many mainstream artists, such ous safety citations against Live surges in its safety plan simply stat- ing the role of emergency response as Jack Harlow, The Kid LAROI Nation. Following Astroworld, 12 ed: manage the crowd. Beyond this, organizers or how they could fail to and Coldplay. Beyond this, it has keep us safe. Such an overwhelmlawsuits have been filed against the there was nothing said on how it organized festivals, including company. Clearly, these lawsuits, would actually go about managing ing lack of protection for attendees Global Citizen, Lollapalooza and at these several festivals and conviolations and injuries have not the 50,000 plus people in attenAustin City Limits. Live Nation certs is reason enough for caution. hindered Live Nation’s ability to dance. The fact that Live Nation is well-established, having made Live Nation played a role in the secure prominent events. organized this event for Scott, one a clear name for itself in the enloss of life and level of injury from

In looking at Live Naof the most well-known artists to tertainment industry. Given Live Astroworld. date, calls into larger questions of Nation’s status in the industry, one tion’s emergency response plan Bella Irwin Staff Writer

Villanova’s Tendency To Be Trendy, But At What Cost?

Tina Aron Co-Opinion Editor

Fashion trends have always been a part of American culture, whether that is the classic 70s tie-dye pattern or the 90s grunge look. But recently, fashion trends have been pretty nostalgic, especially with this winter’s return of Ugg Boots. TikTok and social media have exacerbated the trend cycle, with fads quickly spreading through the world, and subsequently corporations capitalizing on this.

Fashion fads are a fun way to participate in internet culture and bond with others who also choose to take part in the trends.

However, the constant push to dress “trendy” can often lead to feelings of inadequacy, especially if someone cannot afford or does not want to buy new clothes and accessories every month. At Villanova, despite being a campus where individual styles vary, it is hard not to take part in this trend culture despite some of the nega-

tive side effects.

Trends have always been inevitable with the changes in culture and American life, with social media certainly expediting the trend cycle speed. With checkered patterns and fuzzy purses, the Y2K fashion style was all the rage last year. Yet only a year later, these are left behind, and “Shackets” (a top that doubles as a shirt or jacket) and chunky boots are now the hot items.

There is no fault in the evolution of fashion. However, it becomes a problem when the old once-trendy items end up in the landfill. A good option for unwanted clothes is donating to Goodwill or other similar organizations.

However, it is worth noting that some clothes that go unsold at their stores get recycled into other types of textiles or still end up in the trash. Unfortunately, the global fashion industry is one of the largest contributors to climate change, and the constant need for corporations to keep up with the demand for new styles negatively contributes to the problem.

Many fast-fashion brands on Amazon have capitalized on this trend cycle, as the inexpensive nature of their clothes contributes directly to the problem. They realize that consumers are not spending a ton of money on items that they know will soon go out of style, so Amazon or other similar retailers are the perfect markets for these types of clothes.

One way to combat the negative environmental impact of fast fads is to thrift or shop at vintage stores. Luckily, there have been a lot of fashion styles repeating themselves, like leather jackets or classic jeans. Finding these at thrift stores not only makes one’s style more unique, but it is also better for the environment to reuse these articles of clothing. Recently, Villanova students organized the “Wildcat Thrift” event, where students could buy and sell clothing looking for a new home.

It is so easy to get caught up in the idea that dressing in the most popular items is a facet of self-worth. However, it is worth remembering that a classic style

paired with confidence is equally as cool as any item on the Shein website. It is not worth sacrificing financial stability or mental health for the sake of being “trendy.”

The idea of a “capsule wardrobe,” or buying a certain number of staple pieces to be worn with each other, can defray the costs of trendiness and make picking out an outfit in the morning much easier.

After three years at Villanova and over the course of many fashion cycles, I have certainly participated in the trend culture and have felt the need to constantly upgrade my wardrobe. Fashion is a great way to express individuality and creativity. Yet, when it becomes a source of toxicity when trying to keep up with the rapidly changing styles and fulfill the societal pressure to be “trendy,” it is worth taking a step back to remember the impacts of the trend cycle. So, feel free to dawn those Uggs this winter, but check some thrift stores before dropping the money like we used to do in middle school.

Wednesday, November 17, 2021

OPINION

The Villanovan | 7

Should Blue Key Tour Guides be Paid?

Taleen Postian Staff Writer

Everyone at Villanova has seen the experts at walking down stairs backward and that person in your friend group who remembers that Pit is also named Dougherty.

They are Blue Key members, the students who volunteer their time to show prospective students all that the University has to offer.

These people are some of the most important members of the admissions department at Villanova, and it’s time they are treated as such.

Blue Key members should be paid for their work. They are sometimes the people who make or break potential students’ decisions about applying to and ultimately attending Villanova. They have to memorize dozens of buildings and historical and current facts about the University and deliver all that information alongside charming personal anecdotes about their time as a college student. This is all alongside answering any inciting or inane question that comes from a concerned parent or scared kid. And they complete these tours rain or shine. I always get nervous seeing a Blue Key tour guide walk backward in the rain with an umbrella on slippery sidewalks, but they are there to do a job and help potential students see all that Villanova has to offer. There is also the exec staff, who spend even more time and energy organizing the team of tour guides and making sure this essential aspect of the admissions department runs smoothly. This efficient and hardworking team deserves to be paid for their work as well. I’m here to

change minds and hearts and put some change in Blue Key members’ wallets.

There is a counterargument that making Blue Key a paying job will dilute some of the passion of the members, but I would argue that financially compensating those who give their time to this organization could just as easily allow the members of Blue Key to devote more time and passion to the job.

For example, if they had a separate part-time job, a Blue Key member could focus on that job instead of the other one they might have less passion for.

Blue Key directly benefits Villanova financially and is instrumental in its success as a highly competitive and desirable university. If Blue Key did not exist, the school would likely drastically decrease the number of students applying because they do not get a good understanding of the school.

Additionally, many other schools recognize that this is a highly skilled and important job, and they pay tour guides on their campuses.

A friend of mine even remembers that one school she toured had professional, non-students leading their tours. It is time that the University compensates tour guides for their complete knowledge of the school and its history and future, the physical demands of the position, their interpersonal and communication skills and positive attitudes.

The Villanovan spoke with some current and former members to see their opinions on the matter. They all requested to remain anonymous.

“I honestly think [members should be paid] considering the amount of effort that I had to put in just to get into Blue Key let alone the future time that I would

dedicate to do tours,” the first member said. “Blue Key is highly organized and there’s a lot of things that need to be done before actually giving a tour. Like after applying, going through interviews and then going through ‘orientation,’ we also have to study a manual and do at least 2-4 practice tours before actually giving a tour.

I feel like a lot of effort goes unnoticed.”

Another Blue Key member expressed a little more reservation towards the idea of paying Blue Key members but believes that the exec board should be compensated.

“I think that’s a really cool idea and definitely something worth discussing, especially because it’s a thought that’s crossed my mind a few times because I know some other schools pay tour guides,” the member said. “The role of a general tour guide (anyone not on exec) is to give a tour at least once a week or even less depending on how many people register at your allotted tour time.

Because Blue Key is such a huge organization now, and some people don’t give tours very often, I think it makes some sense that they choose to present it as more of a volunteering/leadership opportunity. However, I do think that part of exec and those that work very closely with admissions by scheduling and planning events for prospective students do a lot more and it takes more time. I think those would make sense to be paid positions.”

The Villanovan also spoke with a former member of Blue Key, who also requested to remain anonymous.

“I think it’s more complicated than a simple yes or no,” the

former member said. “Part of what makes Blue Key special and what some prospective students and families admire is that we aren’t paid but most of us still work hard to show our love for Villanova and help families get the information they need in making their college decision. I also think that if everyone in the organization were to be paid, you’d have more people who are applying to the club because they would like to make money rather than because they would enjoy being a tour guide/ambassador and are willing to give their time.”

“I don’t think every guide should be paid, at least not initially.

I’d consider having guides be paid a set amount for our larger events ie. Accepted Students Day and maybe if you’re part of something that requires extra time. There are also positions and people in Blue Key who do more than the required and work much harder than the average guide, so I definitely think those individuals should be paid depending on what their role is and what their responsibilities are.”

“I think at the end of the day, whether or not Blue Key is paid is a conversation that needs to continuously be had between exec and Admissions if it’s not already being had. And if there are members that would benefit from being paid because they have personal financial concerns, that should be taken into consideration. And whether or not Blue Key becomes paid shouldn’t take away from what the organization is designed to be: a group of Villanova students who have a passion for sharing their experiences in the Villanova community with prospective students and families and making a difference.”

Wednesday, November 17, 2021

CULTURE

8 | The Villanovan

CULTURE

SAMOSA To Host Multicultural Show Junoon Chloe Miller Co-Culture Editor

No one can deny that the week before Thanksgiving break ranks as one of the most stressful weeks in the semester. If you are searching for an opportunity to rewind and watch your fellow Villanova peers perform, SAMOSA is holding its annual multicultural talent show this Saturday, Nov. 20th, at 6:00 pm in the Villanova Room at the Connelly Center.

An annual event, SAMOSA, Villanova’s South Asian Multicultural Organized Students Association, was unable to host their event last year due to COVID-19 restrictions. Come 2021, they are back to showcase the wide array of cultures and talents that students at Villanova have to offer.

As the largest multicultural show on campus, this is a unique opportunity that students should not miss.

Each year SAMOSA chooses a special name for their multicultural event. This year, it is entitled Junoon.

Translated from Hindi to English, Junoon means passion. Passion will be evident in every performance come this Saturday.

“I am expecting an awesome showcase that will represent the hard work of SAMOSA executive members and representatives,” SAMOSA

president Kunj Patel said.

Junoon will have something for everyone to enjoy. Not only will there be an Indian fashion show, but there will also be Indian dance performances, sets by acapella groups, a skit and more performances, including some from other schools.

Both George Washington University and the University of Delaware have groups coming to Villanova this Saturday. Delaware Kamaal and George Washington Chamak are Indian Fusion dance teams at their respective schools. Villanova’s Fusion dance team Nova Nassa will perform as well. Additionally, the Villanova Spires, Villanova Twirlers, Villanova Ablaze and VU Superlatives, are among other Villanova groups that will showcase their talents.

After the show, dinner will be served in the West Lounge in Dougherty Hall with additional seating in Cafe Nova and the East Lounge.

Included in the eight-dollar presale ticket price or the ten-dollar ticket price at the door is a meal of Butter Naan, Chicken Tikka Masala, Dal Makhani, Samosas, Paneer Makhani, Gobi Manchurian and Jeera Rice.

SAMOSA has put in countless hours of time and effort to prepare this event for Villanova’s campus.

“The prep has been going on for months for this showcase,” Patel

SAMOSA is hosting their annual multicultural talent show.

Courtesy of @villanovasamosa Instragram

said. “The rooms have been booked since last year and meetings every week have been going on since spring into the summer.”

While enjoying a nice dinner, a fantastic show and celebrating the hard work of Villanova’s SAMOSA is a great reason to attend Junoon, the event also supports an important cause: Aarti for Girls. All proceeds from the show will go to the Aarti Home for Girls, which is “a haven for children who have suffered abuse, trafficking, and abandonment,” according to Aarti Home’s webpage.

Most of the abandoned children pop-

ulation in India is young girls. Aarti home helps to protect these girls while also addressing gender discrimination that is present in India.

A chance to support Villanova students and children around the world, Junoon is sure to be a fun-filled night away from the stress of the nearing end of the semester.

SAMOSA will have tables in the Connelly Center Tuesday through Thursday this week from 11 am to 3 pm, where students can purchase tickets before the event. Tickets can also be purchased through VUTIX or at the door of the event.

Villanova Student Publishes Book “Voter Z” Chelsea Le Staff Writer

Senior Jennifer Lambert is a Political Science major with minors in Communications and Public Administration. She is also the author of a book, “Voter Z.”

“Writing a book has always been on my bucket list,” Lambert said. “I just did not think it would happen when I was 20 years old.”

“Voter Z” is a non-fiction book on current political events. It explores the formation of Generation Z-ers’ political identities and shares how this generation is redefining engagement with American politics.

Set against the backdrop of major historical events from the Iraq War to COVID-19, it features interviews with young voters, activists and leaders all over the country. The book explores different facets of Gen Z’s identity, including race, gender, sexuality, social media presence, political socialization and partisan loyalties.

“I have always loved to write, so I started to combine that with my interest in politics,” Lambert said.

Writing for The Odyssey’s breaking news section, Lambert was discovered

by Professor Eric Koester at Georgetown University. At the time, Koester was expanding his book writing program to help college students and professionals across the country publish books based on their passions.

Lambert decided to focus her book on how major historical events have shaped the political beliefs of

Gen Z. It also explores the ways that social media has increased youth mobilization, youth activism, social media’s role with Gen Z and how it allows youth to mobilize at such high rates. While she was writing the book, the pandemic was at its peak, Black Lives Matter protests were sweeping across the countries, the election took place and the Jan. 6 insurrection occurred.

“I felt like this book could also serve as a time capsule of the unique historical and political moment that was 2020 through early 2021,” Lambert said. “The nature of politics is

job is not for the faint of heart.”

The process was not entirely easy. Lambert experienced many difficulties along the way, including self-doubt and negative criticism.

“When you write about a controversial topic like politics, you receive a lot of criticism,” Lambert said.

“Some of it is valid, but sometimes I’ve been attacked based on my beliefs, age and gender. I came to realize that this book is bigger than me and any hate comments I might receive.”

When asked what she wanted to leave readers with, Lambert responded with hope. One of the last questions she asked each of her interviewees was: “Are you driven more by hope, or by fear?” Only two respondents said fear.

“Our current political environment can feel very scary, but the Gen Z-ers I talked to had a relentless sense that they could make this Jennifer Lambert published her book Voter Z. country a better place,” Lambert said.

Courtesy of Jennifer Lambert “I wanted my readers to walk away feeling hopeful about the future of that it’s constantly changing.” this country, especially at a time when

The book contains copious there is so much uncertainty.” amounts of research and first-hand Now as a published author accounts. Lambert began her process and soon-to-be-graduate, Lambert in Jan. 2020 by reaching out to young has a piece of advice for underclasspeople on social media who were men. actively engaged with politics.

“I would tell underclassmen

“I devoted about 10 hours to make the most out of their college a week just to book research while experience because it is never too taking five classes,” Lambert said. soon to start chasing your dreams,” “I treated my book like a job once I Lambert said.

“I never would have started doing workshops with the Crethought that I would publish a book ator Institute in May of 2020. I’m not while I was still in college, but I going to lie, it was very difficult and learned so much about myself and time consuming. Writing a book while the subject matter through the being a student and working another process.”

Wednesday, November 17, 2021

CULTURE

The Villanovan | 9

Villa-Vogue: 2021 CFDA Fashion Show Kaelin Trombly Staff Writer

Last week marked the 2021 Council of Fashion Designers of America Awards, which understandably congregated the most well-dressed crowd of all the award ceremonies. This year, the ceremony was held at The Pool + The Grill in New York where Tom Ford, Chairman of the CFDA, presided. Despite the CFDA’s occurring on a yearly basis, this year’s event was especially important, as it was dedicated to the celebration of American Fashion and how the industry came together to navigate the pandemic.

The CFDA awards honors those who have innovated and excelled in the fashion industry that year, and those up for accolades are usually celebrities and heavy weight designers alike. Notable appearances of the 2021 CFDA awards included Rick Owens, Off-White and Louis Vuitton’s Virgil Abloh, Miuccia Prada and Valentino’s Pierpaolo Piccioli. Designers aside, celebrities were nominated for the silver trophies, with Zendaya taking the crown for the Fashion Icon Award, while Anya Taylor-Joy took home the Face of the Year Award.

The event started with guests showing off their most fashion-forward looks on the red carpet, which has always been known to produce the most iconic fashion moments of all time. This year proved to be no

exception, as celebrities and designers brought their best. Without further ado, let’s take a look at this year’s most memorable looks.

Zendaya: Zendaya certainly proved deservancing of this year’s Fashion Icon Award in a shocking red two piece gown from Vera Wang. The actress made CFDA history by being the youngest recipient of the Icon Award, and she rightfully celebrated the honor by sporting a 60 carat Bulgari diamond necklace, paired with box braids. It is safe to say that after years of unforgettable looks on both the carpet and magazine covers, Zendaya has done it again and will undoubtedly continue to do so. It is Zendaya’s world, and we are just living in it.

Drew Barrymore: Drew Barrymore served a show stopping look in her highlighter yellow Christian Siriano ball gown. Many followers of hers have started to speculate that Barrymore’s ensemble was a subtle nod to the hot pink tiered tulle gown she wore as an eight year old child star to the 1983 Academy Awards.

Aubrey Plaza: The actress looked effortlessly chic in a Thom Browne grey suit dress, styled with a matching blazer, white oversized button down shirt and bow tie. It is about time we make androgynous fashion the new normality.

Anya Taylor-Joy: All hail the winner of the Face of the Year award, who made every head turnwith her red carpet debut in Oscar

de la Renta. “The Queen’s Gambit” star opted for a purple moiré peplum jacket over a bustier cocktail dress.

Taylor-Joy completed the look with a leopard Gigi Burris pillbox hat, adorned with a black birdcage veil and matching gloves. All in all, it’s safe to say that Cruella de Vil is quaking right now.

Karlie Kloss: Kloss took a different yet just as noticeable approach to the 2021 CFDA awards in a simple, yet sleek, ensemble. The renowned supermodel sported a Khaite Rya dress with ruching detailing, long sleeves and a black belted waist.

Kid Cudi: Not to be dramatic or anything, but I have never been more excited to write about an awards look in my entire life. Kid

Cudi, contemporary hip hop legend, stole the show with his bridal gown ensemble by emerging designer Eli Russell Linnetz. One would think Cudi was ready to walk down the aisle rather than the red carpet in his allover lace catsuit, matching tealength skirt and white blazer. Rather than heels, the rapper added edge with embellished white sneakers and, of course, the look wouldn’t be completed without a veil. Kid Cudi, I love you.

The annual awards ceremony has been known for gathering and awarding some of the best and brightest models and minds in fashion. From the looks of the evening’s ensembles, celebrities delivered on the standard and more. Until next time, fashion junkies.

Kid Cudi wore a bridal gown by designer Eli Russell Linnetz.

Courtesy of Sean Zanni

Villanova’s Philadelphia Justice Project Chloe Miller Co-Culture Editor

Wrongful female incarceration is growing exponentially. The Philadelphia Justice Project is helping to correct this problem.

Founded in 2020 by Villanova Sociology and Criminology Professor Jill McCorkel, the Philly Justice Project is a nonprofit organization with a Villanova student-run chapter. Started in the Spring of

2021, the Villanova chapter is centered around the goal of both helping and advocating for wrongfully incarcerated women and girls. With more than 50 members and a seven-person executive board, club members look at specific cases of two types: appeals cases, which deal with wrongfully convicted women, and commutation cases, which deal with women looking for a pardon on their sentence.

At Villanova, the club has six committees for members to be a part of. The casework committee does

The Philly Justice Project tabled at the Oreo this past Friday.

Courtesy of @phillyjusticeproject on Instagram

investigative research on the cases.

Those in the commutation committee help proofread applications for women who are attempting to pardon their sentences. To help promote the club’s social media presence, the publications committee makes social media posts for events. There is also a finance committee and a legislative research committee that looks out for current events or legislation that could affect cases. For those with less experience who still want to be involved, President Lydia Becker recommends the support team.

“The support team comes to the events that we have, helps promote our social media and gives feedback,” Becker said. “That’s typically younger members who haven’t had a sociology or criminology class.”

Philly Justice Project is trying to expand its presence on campus.

Although there are no events coming up for PJP this semester, it is planning on hosting a panel with wrongfully incarcerated individuals.

Becker has a long history with professor Dr. McCorkel. As for getting involved with PJP, Becker was invited to be a part of a new internship program founded by McCorkel that focused on wrongfully incarcerated women.

“Over the Summer of 2020, I worked directly with incarcerated women and a few other Villanova students,” Becker said. “That ran while she was establishing the non-profit, and I pitched to her the idea of making it a student organization.”

Through this internship,

Becker was able to gain real-life experience with incarcerated women and was inspired to bring it to Villanova.

Currently, Villanova is the only college with a PJP chapter, but there are hopes to expand throughout Philadelphia and potentially the East Coast.

An important aspect of PJP that sets it apart from other social justice organizations is the feminist focus that is not usually seen in the prison reform movement. Many times, the focus for helping those wrongfully incarcerated is on males, but PJP is attempting to overcome this stereotype by working directly with women.

“The incarcerated women are the fastest-growing segment of the incarcerated population,” Becker said.

“This is because all of the efforts to decrease incarceration have been geared towards decreasing men’s incarceration.”

The Philly Justice Project is giving a voice and advocacy to a group that historically has not been given the opportunity to do so for themselves. Through its direct work with incarcerated women and powerful leadership by McCorkel, the Philadelphia Justice Project at Villanova is actively working to help build a better community for all.

While PJP is not currently accepting applications for new members, there will be applications next school year. In the meantime, you can keep up to date with current political news in the area and all things Philadelphia Justice Project through their Instagram account @phillyjusticeproject.

Wednesday, November 17, 2021

CULTURE

10 | The Villanovan

Villanova Student Athletes Make Profit with New Law Elena Rouse Co-Culture Editor

Continued from pg. 1

...he secured a relationship with golf brand Titleist, which then sent him boxes of its merchandise for him to wear.

Minerva had to stop the deal once he started playing golf for Villanova because of the regulations that prevented athletes from having profitable relationships with companies. However, the new NIL law presented Minerva, along with all other college athletes, that chance at a partnership again.

Minerva also works with the sports drink brand Lemon Perfect and is a college athlete for the sports and entertainment media company, Barstool Sports. Minerva’s job is to wear the free gear and use the products that these companies send to him, which he said is a help to him as much as it helps the brands being promoted.

In the same vein, senior cheerleader Nelya Naida became another Villanova athlete to contract a relationship with Barstool Sports. The sports media company was one of the first to jump on the new NIL law, creating a “Barstool Athletes” program to give selected college athletes media promotion and merchandise. Naida spoke about her experiences.

“Ever since I was accepted into the Barstool athlete pool, it has been really exciting knowing that I have an opportunity to build a name and brand for myself in the world of cheerleading and athletics,” Naida said. “I think it is

great that Barstool Sports is providing this stepping stone for college athletes. However, I have noticed that in order to truly turn a profit requires a huge commitment to growing a social media presence.”

A strong social media presence is something that athletes like Stelios Kroudis, a senior lacrosse player, have utilized in light of the new law. Harboring more than 17,000 Instagram followers, Kroudis has been no stranger to the frontlines of the social media age. His popular YouTube channel about his athletic career attracted his large following, but it was not until the NIL law this summer that he was able to profit from his work.

“In the past, I was not able to make any money from YouTube ad revenue, paid promotions or work with brands that I love,” Kroudis said. “The most frustrating part of the NCAA restrictions before this year was the fact that non-student-athletes were able to do all of the things I can do now (and more) with no limitations at all. Now, I can use my online presence to build a brand that I always wanted to.”

Through his own personal marketing, to companies reaching out to him directly, Kroudis has established five partnerships, including Lax.com, Eat Clean Bro and the Lubrano Pain and Spine Treatment Center.

Kroudis does different promotional work for each. Lax.com is his YouTube channel sponsor.

“I am contracted with them to do different promotions and create content in exchange for payment, content and promotion on my YouTube Channel,” Kroudis said.

As for being a face for brands

Senior Nelya Naida is one of the student athletes utilizing the new NIL law.

Courtesy of Nelya Naida

across all platforms, these athletes understand the responsibility of now representing beyond just the University.

Minerva spoke on how his perspective on sportsmanship is heightened even more so now.

“It just places a bigger emphasis on being respectful and understanding that people are going to support you,” Minerva said. “You need to be able to have etiquette and proper mannerisms if you’re struggling on the field or course or whatever you’re doing in order to stay positive. There is more to it than just the round you’re playing.”

As this change marks a cultural shift in the world of college athletics, potential challenges arise along with the opportunities for these already uber busy students.

“I think this change adds another level to being a student athlete as a whole because it creates a layer of social pressure,” Naida said. “In other words, student athletes will now have to balance maintaining a strong social media presence in order to make a profit in addition to their academics and busy practice and game schedules.”

Despite these potential time constraints, the opportunities of profit can have undoubted high rewards.

“With all of the priorities I have with school and lacrosse, I don’t have time to work a part time job or pull in a source of income,” Kroudis said. “Being able to make content and promote different brands allows me to make money in ways I would have never imagined.”

The Villanovan Weekly Horoscopes Elena Rouse Co-Culture Editor

Aries: The constellation Aries is difficult to see in the sky at this time, which can mean a few things. You might be feeling a sense of dread about a certain task, or are feeling like you aren’t being heard or seen. Needless to say, there are negative vibes stemming from you, but fear not.

The next week will provide the moment you need to feel like you are back on track to you.

Taurus: It’s time to accept that you might be wrong about a certain situation. It’s important to be confident and proud of your beliefs, but sometimes accepting you need help or aren’t in the right about something is needed to bring the clarity you need.

When you throw away your preconceived notions you might even find a pleasant surprise.

Gemini: There is something that you need to let go of in order to truly get what you want. Maybe that’s some toxic relationship, regrets you have, or some idea you have of what you thought you wanted. Holding on so tight is like a bird holding on to the ground when it is trying to fly.

Once you release it, you will be able to go forth fully toward the happiest version of yourself.

Cancer: Are you in a bit of a rut? Maybe something good you had going for you has ended, and you’re left trying to figure out just how you move on without it.

Though life might feel like a pair

of shoes that aren’t worn in yet, don’t fret. There is nothing wrong with having to figure things out.

Your life will fall into place, everything always does.

Leo: You’re a sight for sore eyes this week Leo! If it hasn’t hit you yet, a surge of energy will strike down, prompting you to push those shoulders back and take confident steps towards something (or someone) that you haven’t been able to. The best advice for the week is to go for it! The vibes are with you.

Virgo: Now is the time to lend a listening ear. Sometimes, the best thing we can do is pay attention to our surroundings to see what we notice. When you take that time you might just find that there is more going on than you once thought, and it could lead you to a conversation or moment that you didn’t expect.

Libra: You’re on the cusp Libra. Something is brewing for you, and while you might feel like you’ve been falling short again and again, trust the stars when they say that you are about to fall into some moments of pleasant surprise (cue the sighs of relief).

Scorpio: Have you ever heard the saying “you can’t have your cake and eat it too”? It means you can’t have it all, and sometimes that’s a painful truth we need to hear. You might have bitten off more than you can chew, and that happens to the best of us, but you can’t stay on that road.

Once you make a decision for yourself and focus on one thing,

the road will become clearer.

Sagittarius: An intriguing opportunity will be presented before you this week. Before you jump on it, make sure it is something you are sure you weigh your options. Is this something you want, or just something others want for you? These are questions to make sure you answer before anything is decided.

Capricorn: While you might feel like people keep disappointing you lately, you will be presently surprised in the next few days. People are good, and though it might feel like the opposite right now, someone will come and prove you wrong just when you

need them to.

Aquarius: Now is the time to make a romantic gesture. Go big or go home, Aquarius. All signs point to requited romance, and you will find that if you make that move with the person you have your eye on, things will go your way.

Pisces: You have been pushed to the brink. Exhaustion has struck, and you have started to feel like a hamster on a wheel.

Harder times are coming, but fear not, the intensity you are facing right now will pass, and afterwards a time of calmness will wash over you. You are almost there.

What is in the stars for you this week?

Courtesy of Cosmopolitan

Wednesday, November 17, 2021

CULTURE

The Villanovan | 11

Taylor Swift Re-Releases Highly Anticipated Red Album Ryan Batkey Staff Writer

The week of Nov. 8 was a busy time for superstar Taylor Swift. After months since her last album release of “Fearless (Taylor’s Version),” Swifties and casual fans finally got to hear “Red (Taylor’s Version)” at midnight on Nov. 12. However, unlike the more lowkey “Fearless” release, “Red” is bringing much more to the table for fans.

Swift announced the release of the album on Jun. 18, leaving fans confused and upset that there was such a huge time gap between the albums.

“Fearless” was released on Apr 9, 2021.

However, a few weeks ago, Swift pushed up the release for “Red” by a week for unknown reasons.

She kicked off the release with two late night talk show appearances, starting off with Jimmy Fallon on the night of Nov. 11, followed immediately by an interview with Seth Meyers. The day after the album drop, Swift joined Jonathan Majors on Saturday Night Live, where she performed the much anticipated 10 minute version of fan favorite, “All Too Well.” This high level of promotion for the album is extremely refreshing, as the pandemic has hindered artists’ ability to promote their projects.

“Red” will be Swift’s second re-recorded album in wake of detrimental legal issues with Scooter Braun and her old management team. The past year revealed Braun and management owning Swift’s songs, not giving her the chance to own her own art and selling

songs off to whoever they pleased.

With all this “Red” excitement, an unexpected track of Swift’s gained tons of popularity on TikTok in the past few weeks. “Enchanted,” off of her third album, “Speak Now,” has been a huge TikTok trend. Users have been making videos with the song’s bridge where Swift sings, “Please don’t be in love with someone else,” a string of lyrics to which many users are finding connections. This has caused a bit of stirring among fans since a few weeks ago the song “Wildest Dreams,” from her “1989” album, trended on TikTok, which prompted Swift to release her version of the song. Will the “Enchanted” popularity give fans a new single? Or even a new album? Only time will tell since Swift is cryptic and secretive about her future plans.

“Red” has always been a fan favorite album, and Swift has openly spoken about how influential “Red” was to her life and career. The album’s haunting ballads of heartbreak were gifts of acknowledgement to Swift fans going through similar experiences, particularly in relation to ballad, “All Too Well.” The track retells the painful history between Swift and ex-boyfriend, Jake Gyllenhall, whose relationship is known for being one of her most tumultuous. The originally released version of this song ran for five minutes and 28 seconds, but Swift released the originally written version that lasts over ten minutes. On top of that, Swift directed a short film for the track starring Dylan O’Brien and Sadie Sink.

The album itself features 30 tracks, with 10 never-before-released songs. Naturally, original singles like “22”

Taylor Swift created a new album cover upon the “Red” album release.

Courtesy of Courtesy 13/Taylor Swift

and “I Knew You Were Trouble” retain their high energy, pop vibe that had fans falling in love with Swift’s versatility and creativity. Vault tracks like “Forever Winter” and “Message in a Bottle” showcase the beautiful lyricism that Swift is known for. The album also features a fresh duet with a rising star in the music industry, Phoebe Bridgers. Their song,“Nothing New” has been extremely well received with fans, as it again builds on Swift’s deeply emotional discography.

Despite a lot of the fun pop tracks that “Red” shares with fans, many of Swift’s most heartbreaking tracks of her career are found on this album.

Songs like “Sad, Beautiful, Tragic” and “Begin Again,” with vivid story-telling and her mature tone, makes the music even more moving than the original

versions. Rock-sounding tracks like “State of Grace” and “Holy Ground” represent a special type of song done by Swift that fans refer to as “Angry Taylor” and add to the complex emotions expressed in the album. In general, the power and influence of the original album pervades into the re-recording and gives a new sense of growth as Swift shares these stories with the world once again.

It’s been almost 10 years since fans were first graced with the artistry that Swift shares on “Red.” But the re-recording maintains the power of her words and emotions that lured in fans in 2012 and keeps them coming back in 2021. The next few months will continue to keep fans on their toes as Swift’s release schedule remains a mystery, but what is not is the love of music that Swift and her fans share and know all too well.

Villanova Theater Prepares for Legally Blonde

Emma Cahill Staff Writer

Everyone’s favorite Gemini vegetarian is coming soon to Villanova’s stage. Villanova Student Musical Theatre will present “Legally Blonde” this fall. From Dec. 2-5, students will be able to watch the performance at the Court Theatre within the Mullen Performing Arts Center.

Villanova Student Musical Theatre, commonly referred to as VSMT, is a student-run organization made up of Villanova students who share a passion for performing. These students bring their incredible talents of acting, singing and dancing to the stage in every production. VSMT puts on three musicals each year, and this year one of the three includes “Legally Blonde.”

Auditions for “Legally

Blonde” occurred back in September, and practices have been ongoing since October. In fact, VSMT members even returned from Fall Break earlier in order to get a head start, while also taking the time to bond as a group through various activities. VSMT members commonly refer to this early return to campus as “Boot Camp Week.”

As the opening of this show nears, the cast and crew work tirelessly to perfect their performances for the audience. Rehearsals are beginning to pick up, and preparations are being put in place to create an amazing theatrical experience for all.

“We’ve been having rehearsals since Oct. 13 and have been learning all of our songs and blocking and choreography,” freshman Madeleine Brooks said. “Next week, we’re going to move into the actual theater for rehearsals and we’re excited for that.”

Members of the play begin to heighten their preparation for this show in the upcoming week with new rehearsals at the Performing Arts Center. Later on, members will participate in the infamous tech week, with some of the most notoriously intense practices of the season.

At the same time, the group is supplementing its hard work with fun activities, which helps VSMT to bond as a group. On top of that, the organization had its Big Little Reveal that occurred on Friday, Nov. 12, which many members were very excited about.

Additionally, the performance will be a nod to a return to a sense of normalcy. As we return to a sense of regular life following the COVID-19 restrictions, the production of this musical is especially exciting. While there are still precautions that are being taken, the show will go on with consid-

erably more freedom. This means that VSMT will be able to perform this musical in the Mullen Center with an audience. The audience will honor the indoor mask policy established at Villanova, but elation reigns for being back in person with less social distancing necessary.

Overall, the VSMT members are incredibly excited about this production and look forward to performing in the upcoming shows. With all their hard work in mind, the performance is sure to be amazing.

If you want to watch this incredible performance about the bubbly blonde making her way through Harvard, you should hop onto the web and buy tickets to this performance. Tickets for “Legally Blonde” are on sale now and can be purchased on the Villanova website.

SPORTS

12 | The Villanovan

Wednesday, November 17, 2021

SPORTS

Men’s Soccer Makes NCAA Tournament Owen Hewitt Staff Writer Continued from p.1

one more away win than home victory.

The Wildcats played seven matches against teams that made the College Cup this season. The squad went 1-6-1 against those teams, including a 4-0 loss at 12th overall seed Penn State, and two losses to third seeded Georgetown, one in the regular season and one in the Big East tournament. The ‘Cats’ only win against a tournament team came in the Big East tournament, with a 2-1 win over Creighton in Omaha in the quarter final. The Catamounts fared much better against tournament teams, albeit in a much smaller

sample size, going 2-0-1 with wins over Princeton and UNH, as well as a regular season draw to UNH.

The winner of the Thursday match between the Wildcats and the Catamounts will go on to face fourth-seeded Notre Dame in South Bend on Nov. 21. The Fighting Irish won the ACC tournament 2-0 over Duke to secure its place in the tournament, though it likely would have gotten in without the championship win. Notre Dame is fifth in RPI rankings and is 6-4-1 on the year against teams also in the tournament.

Before the ‘Cats can worry about the Fighting Irish, they first need a result in Burlington. The Catamounts are on a five-match winning streak, while the Wildcats have gone 3-2-1 in their last six.

The Catamounts’ main offensive threats are graduate

forward Nacho Lerech and senior midfielder Alex Nagy. Lerech led the team in goals with six over the course of the year, while also accumulating six assists. Nagy scored five times while leading the team in assists with 10. He also had two multi-assist performances. The Catamounts have also had strong goalkeeping this year from senior keeper Nate Silveira, who has a 0.779 save percentage and a goals against average of 0.83. Silveria was named to the America East all-conference first-team and was Men’s Soccer celebrates making the NCAA Tournament. awarded the conference’s GoalCourtesy of @NovaMSoccer

Junior Gray Ricca sets to kick the ball.

Courtesy of Olivia Pasquale/Villanovan Photography

keeper of the Year award.

The Wildcats are excited to have the opportunity to continue playing, especially considering that before the season, the ‘Cats were picked to finish 11th in the Big East by the Coaches Poll.

“This is something we’ve been working toward with this group of seniors and juniors,” Carlin said to Villanova Athletics.

“They’ve worked so hard. To think about where we’ve come from 2019, to the Covid year to now, just shows this is a group of resilient young men that put a lot into this. We’re excited.”

Men’s Basketball Hammers Howard 100-81 Billy Vinci Co-Sports Editor

The Villanova Wildcats returned from a trip to the West Coast to take on the Howard Bison at the Finneran Pavilion, improving to 2-1 on the young season with a 100-81 victory.

“I hope they’re a really good team, because they looked like it to me, and we couldn’t guard them,” head coach Jay Wright said. “Thank God we could score.”

The Wildcats were led by senior forward Brandon Slater and graduate student guard Collin Gillespie. Slater led the way with a career high 23 points on 6-8 shooting and 4-4 from deep, to go with three rebounds and two assists.

“It’s not surprising. We work all summer … we practice everything. We practice form shooting, we practice free throws,” Slater said of his hot start to the season.

Gillespie scored 21 points on 6-13 shooting including 5-12 from three point range, in addition to two rebounds and three assists.

Both teams performed well offensively, but the Wildcats made two more threes and got to the line more. Both squads finished the game shooting 30-53 (56.6%) from the field. The Bison made 12 three pointers, while Villanova made 14 on 30 attempts (46.7%).

Howard went just 9-13 (69.2%) from the free throw line, while Villanova went an impressive 26-26, led by a 7-7 performance from Slater.

Junior guard Justin Moore and graduate forward Jermaine Samuels were the two other Wildcats to score in double digits.

5’11” freshman guard Elijah Hawkins started the scoring with a three-pointer for Howard, and Moore answered with one of his own for the Wildcats to set the tone for a shootout.

The first half was an offensive clinic on both sides, but not so much on the defensive end. After the first 20 minutes of play, the Wildcats held a 52-44 lead, despite the Bison only missing six field goals.

The Bison were led by 12 points from graduate student guard Kyle Foster, who went 4-5 from three point range. Overall, Howard shot 17-23 (73.9%) from the field and 8-12 (66.7%) from deep in the first half.

“I didn’t think we were that bad defensively, we were there on a lot of the threes,” Wright said.

“They just stuck them, and they hit some tough twos.”

The Wildcats were led by 14 points from Moore and Slater.

Moore went 5-8 from the field in the first 20 minutes, while Slater went 4-4 from deep. The ‘Cats shot 16-28 (57.1%) from the field, and 10-19 (52.6%) from behind the arc in the first half.

A similar trend continued in the second half, with Slater scoring the first five points, before an answer from redshirt sophomore forward Steve Settle put the Wildcat lead at 59-48.

The Bison closed the lead to single digits again at 62-54 with a three pointer from graduate student guard Tai Bibbs, but Villanova made a run from there to separate.

A 19-6 run that started with 15:36 left in the game and ended with 8:22 to go gave Villanova a 81-60 advantage to seal the game. Three pointers from fifth year seniors Gillespie and Samuels ended the run that put the game out of reach.

For Howard, Foster led

the way with 19 points on 7-12 shooting and 5-9 from deep. Bibbs and Hawkins also finished with 16 points with three three pointers for Hawkins and two for Bibbs.

Villanova is back in action Saturday at 1 p.m. in the Hall of Fame Classic at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut against 17th ranked Tennessee.

Depending on the result, the Wildcats will then take on either 6th ranked Purdue or 18th ranked North Carolina. Either way, it’s two more guaranteed games against ranked opponents.

“Every game is going to prepare us,” Slater said. “We get experience from every game … our next game is our most important game.”

Senior Brandon Slater scored 23 against Howard.

Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

Wednesday, November 17, 2021

The Villanovan | 13

SPORTS

Women’s XC Advances to NCAA Championships

Catherine Browne Staff Writer

On Friday, the Villanova men’s and women’s cross country teams travelled to Lehigh University to compete in the NCAA Mid-Atlantic Regional Championship. The women’s team competed in the 6000 meter race, followed by the men’s team in the 10,000 meter race.

The event determined the top two teams from each nine regional competitions who automatically earned bids to the NCAA Championships. Both Villanova teams finished in third place in the regionals, finishing just outside the automatic qualifiers. However, the women’s team qualified for the NCAA Championships as an atlarge bid, and three members of the men’s team qualified for the meet as

individuals.

As a team, the women secured third place with a total score of 105, behind West Virginia with 67 points and Georgetown with 43 points.

In the women’s 6k, junior Lydia Olivere finished in fourth place out of 193 runners with a time of 20:25.3. This was not Olivere’s first time competing in this race, as she was named Mid-Atlantic Region Athlete of the Year in 2019. Sophomore Maggie Smith finished in eighth place, and freshman Sadie Sigfstead finished in ninth place.

The top-25 individual finishers from each regional meet earn all-Regional honors by the United States Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA), which recognizes the Wildcats’ top finishers Olivere, Smith and Sigfstead.

Since 2000, the women’s team has been represented by 84

Seniors Haftu Strintzos and Josh Phillips both qualified for the NCAA meet as individuals.

Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

Three runners earned All-Region honors at the meet on Friday.

Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

all-regional athletes and has finished in the top three of the teams rankings in 17 out of the 21 years that the NCAA Mid-Atlantic Regional Championship has occurred.

The rest of the women’s roster included sophomore Anna Helwigh, who finished 38th, senior McKenna Keegan, who finished 46th, freshman Emily Robinson, who finished 58th and freshman Elizabeth Vaughn, who finished 73rd.

The men also finished in the third spot with a score of 57, behind first place Princeton (40) and second place Georgetown (49). Villanova senior Haftu Strintzos finished in second out of 174 racers in the men’s 10k race with a time of 30:13.1, falling to Georgetown’s Parker Stokes by a close 3.4 seconds. Strintzos has received many accolades throughout his four years as a Wildcat and was recently chosen as Big East Male Athlete of the Week twice. Freshman Jack Jennings also made an appearance on the leaderboard, finishing in

ninth with a time of 30:25.08.

The men’s team won the title of NCAA Mid-Atlantic Regional Champions back in 2019, making it the program’s sixth title win. It has been represented by 91 all-regional runners since 2000 and has finished in the top three of the teams rankings in 18 out of the 21 years of the NCAA Mid-Atlantic Regional Championship.

The rest of the men’s roster included junior Josh Phillips, who placed 12th, junior Charlie O’Donovan, who placed 14th, freshman Liam Murphy, who placed 20th, senior Justin Weber, who placed 23rd and senior Ryan Cutter, who placed 28th. Strintzos, Jennings, O’Donovan, Murphy and Weber are top-25 finishers, which earns them All-Regional honors.

The women’s team, Strintzos, Jennings and Phillips will compete for national accolades at the NCAA Championship on Nov. 20 in Tallahassee, Florida.

Villanova. Starting off on a 7-1 run, Villanova never gave the lead back, and neither team went on any major runs en route to a Villanova 25-16 set win, giving a 3-1 win to the Wildcats.

Barnes led Villanova with 12 kills, while Campos led with 33 assists. Leitman had 14 kills to lead the Friars.

Villanova improved to 1512, while the Friars fell to 15-13.

Saturday night was Senior Night for the Wildcats, as six seniors were honored before the game.

“The best part of Senior Night is you get to play another match at home,” Steinbach said.

“Playing in Jake Nevin has been special for our six graduating kids.”

Graduate libero Averi Salvador and seniors Anna Morse, Barnes, Olivia Brown, Emily Curtis and Delaplane started the match for ‘Nova versus the 21stranked team in the country.

Villanova was never able to gain any ground on Creighton throughout the first set, with the first point being the only lead Villanova held. The ‘Cats got down early and never were able to recover, putting up a measly 11 points to lose the first set, 25-11.

Homer had three kills for Villanova, while Creighton had 18 total kills to Nova’s six, with an incredible hitting percentage of .516.

The second set was a lot

closer, with four lead changes.

With the set tied at 12, Creighton went on a 7-3 run to take a 19-15 lead, before scoring six straight points with three kills from Kiana Schmitt to win the second, 25-15.

The third set was even more competitive than the third, with nine lead changes. Villanova was able to take a late lead, 15-14, thanks to a kill from Homer. However, Creighton would score seven of the next eight points to take a 21-16 lead, before finishing ‘Nova off 25-18 in the third.

No player from Villanova had more than six kills, which led to a .108 hitting percentage.

Creighton had five players over six kills and a .426 hitting percentage.

Villanova fell to 15-13 and out of playoff contention, while Creighton moved to 26-3 and is gunning for a NCAA Tournament bid. The Bluejays have won nine in a row, but they are currently tied with Marquette atop the Big East standings with identical 14-2 conference records.

The Wildcats are currently in sixth place in the conference with a 7-9 record, needing two wins next weekend to finish with a .500 conference record.

Villanova ends its season next week on the road versus DePaul (17-11) in Chicago on Friday and Marquette (23-4) in Milwaukee on Saturday. Marquette has clinched a Big East tourney berth, while DePaul can clinch with a win over the ‘Cats Friday.

Volleyball Eliminated From Playoff Contention Zac Tipton Staff Writer

Villanova had its final home weekend of the season as it faced Providence and 21st ranked Creighton.

Head coach Josh Steinbach knew that a lot of things would have to go right to make the postseason, as the Wildcats needed to win both games, as well as twice on the final weekend in order to qualify.

“You can’t win four matches at once,” Steinbach said. “You can only win them one at a time.

We got Providence on Friday night. We just gotta win that match.”

Villanova was able to take down Providence in four sets, 23-25, 25-21, 25-16 and 25-16.

However, the ‘Cats could not upset Creighton, losing in straight sets, 11-25, 15-25 and 18-25. The loss to Creighton eliminated ‘Nova from Big East Tournament contention, as only the top four teams in the Big East make it to the postseason.

Villanova entered Friday having lost to Providence in straight sets the last time the two teams played, and losers of three straight against the Friars. Providence started off strong, taking a 6-1 lead before Villanova brought it back to 12-10. Villanova went on a 6-0 run thanks to three attack errors from Providence to take a

16-12 lead. After that, it was one run after the other. Providence went on a 7-1 run, then Villanova went on a 5-2 run, before Providence finished it with a 4-1 run stretch to win, 25-23.

Shaliyah Rhoden led Providence with six of its 14 kills, while sophomore middle blocker Madeline Barber had three of Villanova’s 10.

Villanova began to find its groove in the second. Senior right side hitter Sanaa Barnes had a pair of kills to give Villanova an 8-3 lead. Despite a Providence 5-0 run, Villanova was able to keep the lead thanks to a 7-1 run and backto-back aces from Taryn Whittingham. With a 21-17 lead, senior outside hitter Clare Delaplane, sophomore setter Andrea Campos and sophomore outside hitter Kiera Booth each had kills of their own to win the set, 25-21.

The third set was a massive turnaround for the Wildcats.

Despite being down 8-2 and 13-7, Villanova was able to go on a 9-1 run with kills from Homer, Delaplane, Barnes and Barber.

Villanova held a 16-14 lead and traded points with Providence to bring the score to 19-16. From then on, Booth took control. With three kills in a 6-0 run, Booth led Villanova to win the set, 25-16.

Booth led the Cats with four kills in that set, while Jennifer Leitman of Providence had six of the Friars’ 12 kills.

The fourth set was all

14 | The Villanovan

SPORTS

Three Players Officially Commit To ‘Cats Anders Pryor Staff Writer

Wednesday, Nov. 10 was national signing day for high school basketball players around the country.

Villanova signed a strong recruiting class for the Class of 2022, signing four-star guards Mark Armstrong and Brendan Hausen and five-star forward Cam Whitmore.

Mark Armstrong is a 6’2 guard from South Orange, NJ who played for New Jersey basketball powerhouse St. Peter’s Prep and racked up many offers from top programs including Kansas, Illinois and Stanford.

He was the first of three newcomers to verbally commit to the Wildcats in the summer of 2021. When VUHoops interviewed him about his commitment, the first thing he talked about was coaching.

“Jay Wright always says, ‘Attitude, attitude,’ and that stuck out to me because my high school coach always took that philosophy, but he never used to tell us who it was from,” Armstrong said. “It’s funny that it translates to Coach Wright, he told us that later, but it’s attitude, playing together and playing hard.”

Armstrong will bring a strong presence to the defensive end of the floor at the guard position, as he has the ability to shoot well over defenders who are taller than him.

Brendan Hausen is one of the best high school basketball players in Texas. He is a 6’5” combo guard who can do just about everything, including shooting, cutting, being active in transition and defending on the pe-

rimeter. The Amarillo product chose Villanova over several top programs, such as Oklahoma, Arizona State, Texas A&M and Texas Tech.

“You see the staff is so tight and then the connections they have, and then you see it trickle down to everyone in the program,” Hausen told VUHoops. “The culture is just so strong. The players are like brothers on and off the court. I come from a strong culture program out here, so when I came into Villanova’s practice and watched, I just felt like that’s where I belonged and that I can make a huge impact there.”

Hausen will have the opportunity to develop his skills and learn from what will be a stacked and experienced guard room.

However, the biggest coup of

the period was forward Cam Whitmore, a five-star 6’6” forward who chose Villanova over offers from LSU, UCLA, UNC and Illinois. Ranked 22nd in the nation by 247 Sports and ESPN, Whitmore is the top player in the class for the Wildcats, and completed a solid recruiting class.

“From just being around the team on and off the court, I just felt the most comfortable there,” Whitmore said to VUHoops. “Plus, it’s not too far from home, so I can go home whenever I want.”

According to 247sports, Villanova signed the thirteenth best recruiting class in the nation, best in the Big East by a wide margin. Joining the ‘Cats in the Top 50 are Xavier (28th), UConn (30th), Providence (38th) and Seton Hall (40th).

Wednesday, November 17, 2021

WEEKLY SCOREBOARD Nov. 10 - Nov. 16

Wednesday, November 10 Men’s Swim vs Penn 118-174 L Women’s Swim vs Penn 120-169 L Thursday, November 11 Men’s Soccer @ St. John’s (Big East Tournament) 0-1 L Friday, November 12 Men’s Cross Country @ MidAtlantic Regional 3rd/26 Women’s Cross Country @ MidAtlantic Regional 3rd/27 Volleyball vs Providence 3-1 W Women’s Basketball @ Maryland 67-88 L Men’s Basketball @ UCLA 77-86 L (OT) Saturday, November 13 Football vs Stony Brook 33-14 W Volleyball vs Creighton 0-3 L Sunday, November 14 None

Brendan Hausen is one of three Villanova commits in the Class of 2022.

Courtesy of newschannel10.com

Wildcats to Play in Hall of Fame Classic

guard Collin Gillespie, graduate forward Jermaine Samuels and Daniel Donabedian junior guard Justin Moore. The Staff Writer three lead Villanova in points per game, with Moore most notably

After losing to the No. averaging 20.5 PPG. If Moore 2-ranked UCLA Bruins this past can continue to support the scorFriday, No. 4 Villanova will face ing attack normally commanded nationally-ranked competition

by Samuels and Gillespie, the once again in the Basketball Hall Wildcats will have a three-headed of Fame Tip-Off Tournament next monster on offense. weekend.

Junior forward Brandon

Highly-ranked opponents, Slater and redshirt sophomore including No. 7 Purdue, No. 18 forward Eric Dixon have also Tennessee and No. 19 North Car- stepped up through the first two olina, will participate in the tourgames. Slater, who averaged 3.8 nament, alongside the Wildcats.

PPG last season, is now averaging For the first game, Villanova is set 13.5 PPG, and his improved shootto take on Tennessee at 1 p.m. on ing has shown that he is more than Saturday, Nov. 20. Later that day, a defensive specialist. Dixon, who North Carolina and Purdue square averaged 8.2 MPG and 3.0 PPG off at 4 p.m. last season, has transitioned into a

The winners of the first bigger role as well. He is averagtwo games will meet in the chaming 31.0 MPG and 9.0 PPG, and pionship on Sunday, and the losers his increased minutes are paying will settle for a consolation game off for ‘Nova on both ends of the that same day. floor.

The tournament will take

However, to win it all in place at the Mohegan Sun Arena Connecticut, Villanova must first in Uncasville, Connecticut, a fago through a formidable Tennesmiliar site for the Wildcats. Due to see team. the COVID-19 pandemic, Villa Despite losing their top two nova played four games there last scorers and a former SEC Defenseason as part of the Bubbleville sive Player of the Year, the Vols basketball showcase, posting a 3-1 have not missed a step. At 2-0, record in the process.

Tennessee cruised past two in-state

Coming into the tournaopponents, and while UT Martin ment, Villanova is 2-1 after domand East Tennessee State are in no inating Mount St. Mary’s and way powerhouses, the Volunteers Howard but falling to a talented are No. 18 for a reason.

UCLA team.

As one of the best defen Leading the way for the sive teams in the nation, TenWildcats is the trio of graduate nessee is rated No. 4 overall in

defensive efficiency, according to KenPom. On offense, the Volunteers are led by freshman guard Kennedy Chandler, who is averaging 20.0 PPG, while shooting 70% from the field.

Surrounding Chandler are sharpshooting guards sophomore Justin Powell and junior Santiago Vescovi. In the first game of the season, Vescovi hit six three-pointers alone as the Volunteers set a program record with 17 made 3-pointers against UT Martin. If this is a sign of anything, Villanova must continue to defend the arc well in order to avoid a three-point barrage.

Regardless of whether or not the Wildcats beat Tennessee, they will have more ranked competition in the second game of the Tip-Off Tournament.

In a rematch of the 2016 NCAA Championship game, Villanova could face North Carolina.

Following the retirement of Roy Williams, former assistant coach Hubert Davis now helms the Tar Heels, leading the team to a 2-0 start.

However, the Tar Heels were not entirely convincing in their victories, as UNC trailed late in the second half against an underwhelming Brown Bears’ squad.

Saving the Tar Heels from embarrassment was sophomore guard RJ Davis, who had 26 points in the win. He will be a talent to watch for North Carolina, and along with returning team scoring leader junior forward Armando Bacot

Monday, November 15 None Tuesday, November 16 Men’s Basketball vs Howard 100-81 W and current scoring leader sophomore guard Caleb Love, the Tar Heels could make some noise in Connecticut.

Even if the Wildcats do not take on UNC, they could still reignite some NCAA Tournament memories, albeit, more painful ones, if they encounter Purdue.

At 2-0, the Boilermakers steamrolled their first two opponents behind impressive outings from standout guard Jaden Ivey, who is averaging 19.0 PPG and 6.5 RPG. Purdue scored 96 points on Bellarmine and 92 on Indiana State, holding both teams to 67 points in blowout victories.

Head coach Matt Painter will look to Ivey to run his offense this year, and Purdue’s success may rely on Ivey’s ability to do so.

Supporting Ivey is senior forward Trevion Williams, the team’s leading scorer and rebounder last season, and senior guard Sasha Stefanovic, Purdue’s best threepoint shooter. With a mix of veteran experience and scoring talent, Purdue will be a tough opponent for anyone in the Tip-off Tournament.

Regardless of which team the Wildcats face in their second game of the tournament, the tournament will be a good early season test for the team. By facing two quality opponents, Villanova will be better prepared for a tournament run in March, and may even face rematches against one of the teams they’ll face next weekend in Uncasville.

Wednesday, November 17, 2021

SPORTS

Wildcats to Face Delaware in Season Finale

Tyler Moore Staff Writer

The Battle of the Blue returns this weekend as the Villanova football team travels to Newark to take on Delaware in its last regular season game of the year.

While the Wildcats come off of a strong win against Stony Brook behind the combined efforts of graduate running back Justin Covington and senior running back Jalen Jackson, the Blue Hens are returning home after suffering a loss to Richmond. The loss is a further representation of a disappointing season for Delaware, as it currently sits at 5-5 overall, 3-4 in CAA play.

The rivalry between Delaware and Villanova has always been fierce, although recent history may not paint that picture. Dating back to 1895, the ‘Cats are 31-22 against the Blue Hens and are 9-1 since 2012.

Most recently, the two teams battled it out in Villanova Stadium

this past spring. While 10th-ranked ‘Nova entered the matchup 2-1 overall, 7th-ranked Delaware came in undefeated with the CAA championship in sight. The Blue Hens led 27-13 late in the fourth quarter before the Wildcats mounted a comeback.

Current graduate quarterback Daniel Smith threw a touchdown pass while upside down in midair, cutting the score to 27-20. This pass was regarded as one of the wildest plays in history, even catching the attention of Sports Illustrated and ESPN. The ‘Cats had the ball with a minute to go, but an interception led to their first defeat to Delaware in 10 years.

This season, the Wildcat defense will have to make sure to contain one of the best receivers in the CAA in graduate wide receiver Thyrick Pitts. Pitts leads the Delaware receivers with 657 receiving yards, 73.0 yards per game and seven touchdowns. In addition, redshirt junior quarterback Zach Gwynn leads Delaware with 1,185 passing yards, 148.1 per game and eight touchdowns.

Running back Jalen Jackson celebrates during the win Saturday.

Courtesy of Ali Amarain/Villanovan Photography

The Villanovan | 15

The Villanova defense has been stellar so far this season.

Courtesy of Olivia Pasquale/Villanovan Photography

On the ‘Nova offense, key players should be able to find success against the Blue Hen defense, which ranks in the bottom half of the CAA. With the return of Covington to an already deep rushing game, the ‘Cats will be hard to stop on offense. Mix in the arm of Smith and a solid receiving corps in junior Jaaron Hayek, senior Dez Boykin and junior Rayjoun Pringle, and Villanova will be hard to stop.

The season has been disappointing for the Blue Hens, especially after a strong performance in the spring in which Delaware went on to the FCS semifinals. Beginning the season ranked fifth in the country, the Blue Hens started strong before going on a three game losing streak against a few top CAA competitors. However, the last week of the season is filled with rivalries, which means everything is off of the table when it comes to

past performance.

“It’s a rivalry game — records mean nothing in this one,” head coach Mark Ferrante said earlier this week. “We’re gonna come down there and hopefully play a consistent four quarters. I know they’re gonna be trying to do the same.”

While this yearly match is already important to both teams, a little more urgency is on the Wildcat sideline. With a win, the ‘Cats maintain their top rank in the CAA conference, regardless of the result of JMU’s game this Saturday. With a JMU win, they will share the conference championship, and with a JMU loss, they will win it outright. The championship would be Villanova’s first since the 2012 season.

The Battle kicks off Saturday at 1 p.m. in Newark and will be televised live on NBC Sports Philadelphia.

Wildcats Fall 1-0 to Georgetown in Big East Semis Owen Hewitt Staff Writer

It was all going to plan for the Wildcats. Villanova men’s soccer was less than a minute away from pushing Big East top seed Georgetown to overtime in the tournament semifinals when disaster struck. Sophomore midfielder Chris Hegardt laced a shot from just inside the 18-yard box that deflected off of freshman Hoya midfielder Joe Buck in the box and found its way into the back of the net, past senior keeper Carson Williams, who dove in anticipation of the original shot.

The 1-0 result sends the Hoyas to the Big East tournament finals and ends the Wildcats’

tournament run a game shorter than the team would have hoped.

It also extends the Wildcats’ losing streak against the Hoyas to 14 games, dating back to 2009.

The match started as a back and forth affair, with both teams creating their fair share of chances. Georgetown got off on the front foot, forcing Williams into action early, as he made a brilliant save on a shot from close range in the third minute of the match. The match didn’t feel one-sided, as the ‘Cats took advantage of counter attacking opportunities against the aggressive Georgetown side, but stats ultimately told a different story. Many of the Hoyas’ chances in the first half converted into shots, while the Wildcats were largely unable

Despite the loss, the Wildcats earned an invitation to the NCAA Tournament.

Courtesy of @NovaMSoc/Twitter

to provide a real threat to Georgetown senior keeper Giannis Nikopolidis. At the half, the Hoyas had seven shots, two of which found their way on frame. The Wildcats had no shots.

That said, the ‘Cats did have a much higher share of the possession through the first period, which, while offensively unproductive, allowed the defense a much needed respite from the relentless Georgetown attack.

“We knew we were going to sustain a lot of attack from Georgetown,” head coach Tom Carlin said to Villanova Athletics. “Part of it was just trying to slow them down with some of our possessions and be able to chase us a little bit. I thought we did that in the first half.”

The most productive chances for the ‘Cats came early after the halftime break. Junior forward Lyam MacKinnon was able to get a shot off from the top of the 18-yard box in the 58th, but it was blocked before it could reach the goalmouth. A few minutes later, junior midfielder Gray Ricca received a ball in from MacKinnon in the danger area, but his ensuing shot went high and left of the goal.

“In the first 20 minutes of the second half our possessions were good, we spaced it out well,” Carlin said. “Lyam, Balthi [Saunders], and Jorge [Garcia] were really able to connect and get us going and that is where the chanc-

es started. That is what we talked about at halftime so once they got going, we were able to attack.”

The pressure continued to build in the match, as chance after chance went without a goal for either side. The Wildcats defensive core of junior defensive midfielder Josh Belluz, junior defender Viktor Benediktsson and junior defensive midfielder Anthony Dragisics put on a masterclass in ‘bend don’t break’ defense, as the Hoyas continued to pepper the ‘Cats with shots, but remained without a goal to show for it. Villanova’s hardnosed defending was rewarded with plentiful bookings, as seven Wildcats were shown yellow in the final 20 minutes of the match.

18 shots from the Hoyas later, the squad was finally able to connect on the 19th, thanks to Buck’s redirection past Williams for the back-breaking winner.

The ‘Cats fought until the very end, as sophomore forward Luke Pompliano had a decent look at goal in the final 20 seconds of the game, but his shot sailed off frame, and the match finished 1-0 in favor of the Hoyas.

Despite the loss, the Wildcats were still granted an at-large bid for the NCAA Tournament.

Villanova will travel to Vermont to take on the Catamounts on Thursday, with kickoff set for 6:00 P.M. If the Wildcats are able to beat Vermont, they would next travel to take on nationally fourth seeded Notre Dame.

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DINING SERVICES

Villanova Dining Services

wishing you a Happy & Healthy Thanksgiving!

Please visit our website for a complete list of dining hours of operation during Thanksgiving Break. http://www.villanova.edu/villanova/services/dining/hours/thanksgiving.html