WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 14, 2024 www.villanovan.com @thevillanovan VOLUME 116 | ISSUE 3
STUDENT-RUN SINCE 1916
Black Love is in the Air: Journalists University Celebrates Valentine’s Day Roundtable Emma Cote Staff Writer
On Feb. 10, the Communication Department hosted a roundtable discussion featuring five Black journalists who discussed their stories and experience within the field. The discussion was moderated by former news editor for The Villanovan, Lydia McFarlane, a senior studying political science and communication. “I’m really trying hard not to fangirl right now,” McFarlane said, kicking off the event by explaining her admiration for each of the journalists on stage. Panelists were first asked about how they got into the field of journalism, and while each arrived to where they are now by various means, all echoed a similar sentiment of the vitality of representation. Solomon Jones is a writer for The Philadelphia Inquirer, radio show host and accomplished author. “[I had a] feeling that I got that my voice mattered,” Jones said. Jones has been in the field for quite some time, and opened up on how he has navigated his career. “Yeah, my hate mailbox is full,” Jones shared with a laugh. “But what I do is important, so I don’t really care,” Jones said, in spite of these cruel critiques. To all who infiltrate his mail in response to his writing, he frankly encourages them to “read [his writing],” emphasizing that whether people love it or hate it, at the end of the day, they’re still tuning in. Erin Coleman, an anchor at NBC10 News Today, shared her story of dedication and ambition, one that ultimately resulted in her being a prominent Continued on p. 3
Cate Torrey Staff Writer
February is certainly an interesting time of year. The month brings some boring moments but also excitement for the upcoming holiday, Valentine’s Day. Valentine’s Day, like other holidays, brings excitement, distracting people from daily stress and reminding people of the joy in relationships. This month, the new semester has begun to settle in and feel more routine for students and faculty. Midterms feel as though they are approaching too quickly, yet Spring Break
is a few too many weeks away. Holidays are arguably important parts of the year because they allow people to find time to appreciate themselves and their loved ones. Not everyone gets excited for or celebrates Groundhog Day in February, but Valentine’s Day is cherished by many for its positivity and encouragement for appreciating those we love. A number of people falsely assume that in order to celebrate Valentine’s Day, they must have a romantic interest in whom to give flowers and chocolate; this is not at all true. What’s great about the holiday is
Students celebrate Valentine’s Day at a formal sorority event. Courtsey of Villanova Alpha Chi Omega
that anyone can celebrate it, if they love and want to show appreciation for people they care about. “I believe Valentine’s Day gets a bit of a bad rap for being a day that only celebrates couples,” senior Talia Calabrese said. “While this can be true in some respects, I do think that it’s a very fun day for all, and it makes the slightly boring month of February a little brighter.” Villanova hosts a couple events around campus that brighten students’ spirits and allow them to participate in Valentine’s Day-related festivities. Many of the holiday-related activities are prepared
by the Villanova Campus Activities Team. This year, on Friday, Feb. 9, the team created a Valentine’s Daythemed event called “Build A Bestie.” Held in Dougherty Hall, students had the opportunity to choose and assemble a stuffed animal that they were able to customize to their liking. Animals included teddy bears, dogs, elephants and more, which allowed for a variety of options. After choosing an animal, people were able to dress them up in an adorable custom Villanova t-shirt to complete the final look. “I loved attending this event because it was...
Continued on p. 3
Father Peter Debuts Play: Crazy for You Christopher Brown
Staff Writer
After a feverish festivity like Super Bowl weekend and a glamorous Valentine’s Day, it is time to cap off the celebrations with Villanova’s newest blockbuster. President of Villanova University, Rev. Peter M. Donohue, OSA, PhD, is the director of the upcoming musical, Crazy for You. It is scheduled to open on Feb. 15. However, mem-
bers of the Wildcat family have the privilege of a free showing at 8 pm on Feb. 14 for “Wildcard Wednesday.” On Friday, Feb 9,
The Villanovan had the opportunity to sit down with Father Peter to discuss his upcoming play. Father Peter touched on his extensive
Villanova eagerly await the wondrous wildcat’s to dance onto the stage. Brian Luppy / Villanovan Photography
path in theater life, describing his strong arts based background. “I’ve been doing [theater] since I was a little kid,” Father Peter said. He graduated from Villanova University with a Bachelor of Arts with a concentration in theater and communication arts in 1975. He additionally holds a Master of Arts degree in theater from the Catholic University of America and a PhD in theater from the... Continued on p. 7
Asian Student Association Annual Expo p. 3
Students Should Get On-Campus Jobs p. 4
Free Laundry Isn’t Really Free p. 5
Door Holding Etiquette: Nice or Awkward? p. 6
Celebrating Black History Month on Campus p. 7
VillaVogue: The Grammy’s 2024 Recap p. 9
Love on Lancaster: Valentine’s Edition p. 12
Glad I Exist: An Exploration of Happiness p. 13
Wildcat Watch: Clayton and Weaver Leaving Legacies p. 14
Pappas Scores 100th Career Goal p. 15
2 | The Villanovan
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Villanova Snow Day Protocol Biden & Trump Win In NV
already remote. We usually try to make our decision about opening Simon Kidane or closing by 6 a.m. My goal is to Staff Writer always have the Nova Alert out by 6 a.m. We always start talking between 4:30 and 5 in the morning.” At the beginning of this The question of change is semester, many students wore one that goes through many peotheir pajamas inside out and put ple’s heads. Morro does not bea spoon under their pillows, in hopes of a snow day. And with two lieve that the process will change already this year, those hopes have in upcoming years since Villanova hadn’t had snow in almost two rung true for students. years prior to this semester. In the winter, snow and Villanova Facilities’ Execuother weather conditions can cause travel challenges for students tive Administrative Assistant Trish Robinson is also highly involved and faculty. Icy roads and sidewalks can become obstacles, mak- with the decision making of a ing it challenging or impossible for snow day. “The decision-making students to walk to class. process depends on factors [such The University takes a lot as] how quickly campus can be into considering if a snow day should be called. Faculty members made safe for our community to such as Bob Morro, Vice President travel,” Robinson said. “In part, of Villanova Facilities, help decide this depends on when snow is predicted to start and stop in relation what the right call is. to [coping] operating hours, how “[The decision process is] much snow or ice is predicted more of a consensus decision,” within that time. Morro said. “If [Villanova] has Robinson also touched on snow during the night, I get up the idea that weather patterns may around 5 a.m. and speak to my crew and some of the offices, such change in upcoming years due to global warming. as the Law School office and the “In my personal experiAthletic Department. We try to evaluate if we can get the campus ence, the northeast goes through unpredictable cycles of inclement cleared by whenever classes start, around 8 a.m. or 8:30 a.m. We use weather,” she said. “However, in the last few years or so, we seem three different weather services to be having milder winters resultto predict, we don’t just use one. ing in fewer delays and closures, If it’s a traditional snow day, we as well as more rainfall in the cancel classes rather than changspring.” ing to remote, unless the class is
Villanovans have enjoyed the snow thus far, getting two full snow days already. Natalie Zickel / Villanovan Photography
Isabella Carlin Political Columnist Zoe Garrett Political Columnist The Nevada caucus and Democratic primary election resulted in sweeping wins for Donald Trump and Joe Biden, respectively. In the Republican caucus, Trump was unchallenged by his closest competitor, Nikki Haley, because she chose not to appear on the caucus ballot. This lack of opposition allowed Trump to collect 99.1% of the votes, with fellow candidate Ryan Binkley taking the last 0.9%. Because of his overwhelming win, Trump will receive all 26 of the Silver State’s delegates. He now has earned 63 Republican delegates, with Haley having 17 and former candidates Ron DeSantis and Vivek Ramaswamy holding nine and three. On the Democratic side,
Biden gained 89.4% of the vote and 36 delegates. Marianne Williamson, a Democratic candidate and author, earned 3% of the votes. Following her performance in the Nevada primary, Williamson decided to suspend her campaign in a publically-released statement. “Although as of today we are suspending our campaign, our platform - with its deep dive into so many issues - will remain on Marianne2024.com,” Williamson said. “I hope future candidates will take what works for them, drinking from the well of information that we prepared. My team and I brought to the table some great ideas, and I will take pleasure when I see them live on in campaigns and candidates yet to be created.” The next primary will occur in South Carolina on Feb. 24. Trump and Haley will face off once again on the Republican side, while Biden will look to gain the Democratic nomination with no challengers.
Nevada’s primary saw wins for President Joe Biden (D) and Donald Trump (R). Finn Courtney / Villanovan Digital
Wednesday, February 14, 2024
The Villanovan | 3
NEWS
Black Journalist Roundtable Inspires
Continued from p.1 figure within the field. During the discussion, she highlighted how crucial it is to diversify each news outlet, noting that “diversity in the editorial is so necessary.” Corey Davis, a reporter from 6ABC Action News, echoed Coleman’s point. “It goes beyond the writers,” Davis said, emphasizing the necessity of diversifying the staff as a whole. The other panelists recog-
nized the importance of “having a seat at the table,” in a field in which representation is everything. Specifically, many expressed their critique of how news outlets fail many of the Philadelphia communities in terms of coverage. Kenny Cooper, a reporter at WHYY news, explained that, for several of these communities, there is solely “only crime coverage,” but that many outlets fail to return and “do a community story.” “It perpetuates a stereotype,” Davis said in agreement.
Villanova’s Communication Department hosted the Black journalist roundtable. Lydia McFarlane/Villanovan Photography
Coleman noticed the extent to which it was hurting locals within said communities. “Why do we only see you when something bad happens?” Coleman said she is often asked. When it comes to covering Philadelphia as whole, each journalist asserted the perspective that they are able to offer is both unique and critical. “The history of this city is my history,” Cooper said. “[I write to] challenge existing narratives about the suburbs.” “How has being Black shaped your journalist experience?” McFarlane asked the panelists. The question prompted an array of answers. “I’m always thinking about the fact that I’m Black,” Jones said. “I’m always bringing everything that I am to everything I do.” “[It] makes it much more laborious, but at the end of the day, I think it gives me that unique perspective,” Cooper said. McFarlane later built upon the question in asking the panelists whether they felt that they were held to a higher standard as a Black journalist.
“I feel like Black people are held to a higher standard in general,” Resolve Philly’s Dionicia Roberson said. Coleman built upon the unique perspective she is able to share, specifically in sharing her experience reporting in 2020 following the murder of George Floyd. In a field in which many are encouraged to leave their personal experiences and opinions away from the anchor desk, Coleman affirmed it only added to her ability to cover the events that unfolded. “I brought my experiences as a Black mom to the anchor desk,” Coleman said. During the Q&A session following the panel, many students in attendance asked for the professionals’ opinion on where the field was headed in light of artificial intelligence. While all admitted that they can’t give a concrete answer, they assured the audience that there will always be a demand for credible and unique perspectives in journalism. “We need passionate young people,” Coleman said.
Asian Student Association Annual Expo excited for the rest of the night. “I really enjoyed the dance groups,” sophomore Nadia Baulduf said. “I know a lot of people in the different groups, and it is so fun seeFriday, Feb. 10, the Asian ing their talent[s] shine on stage”. Student Association (ASA) hosted Groups such as Nova Nassa, its annual Expo. It was a night filled Ablaze, The Superlative, the Vietwith dancing, singing, contests and namese Student Association and more to raise money for the organimore showcased talents through zation. dance and the high level of energy “My favorite event in ASA that erupted throughout the room. is the Expo,” Expo Chair Oliver “Moving forward, ASA is Sohn said. “Last year, when I first trying to increase and deepen its saw the ASA Expo, I was completeinterclub relationships,” ASA Vice ly immersed and impressed by all President Justin Wong said. “Speakthe multicultural organizations on ing of which, we were so excited to campus. I knew I wanted to get involved this year and help showcase have the South Asian Nova Nassa that, which helped lead me into the Dance crew perform at Expo this year and hope to collaborate with position of Expo Chair.” more South Asian clubs in the fuThe Expo began with ture.” Villanova a cappella group Minor During the intermission Problem singing the national anbetween Acts I and II, the organizathem, as well as a variety of songs to tion served a variety of Asian foods get the audience ready. to everyone in attendance. Afterwards, a mix of “My favorite part of the dance and language programs took showcase has to be the food,” junior the stage and helped get the crowd Lauren Armstrong Co-News Editor
Hai-yan Koenig said. “Expo brings dishes and flavors from our cultures together through authentic local restaurants. It is the perfect blend of bringing the Villanova community together both on campus grounds and in the local area.” The food, as well as the environment, created an atmosphere of excitement and support for all those performing and watching the Expo. “My favorite part of the Expo was the audience,” Sohn said. “There was a lot of hard work involved in planning everything and at times I was stressed. But it all paid off seeing the audience. They cheered for friends, laughed, smiled and were speechless at times. It was really awesome and fulfilling to see that.” At the beginning of Act II, the audience was well-fed and eager to see what would take place next. Following the game session, where audience members could enter a raffle, Villanova Club Taekwondo team took the stage and
showcased a modern dance performance, which wowed the room. After a few more performances, the ASA took the stage. Performing a dance cover to the songs “Mr. Chu” by Apink and “Up & Down” by EXID, the organization showcased just how much work and effort went into planning and perfecting the Expo. “Expo could not happen without everyone’s help,” ASA President Alice Wu said. “It is a group effort to make it fun smoothly, and it is so much work. At the end of the day, being able to share a snippet of our diverse cultures is important to ourselves and others. Instead of shying away, it’s important to organize these showcases to make sure we embrace diversity.” ASA’s annual Expo was a hit, as it is year after year. Showcasing the diverse cultures represented by students within the organization and outside the group is a tradition that students look forward to every year.
Love in the Air: University Celebrates Valentine’s Day Continued from p.1 great opportunity to spend quality time with my friends and make a cute gift for myself,” sophomore Giovanna Mayo said. “I love how the Villanova Campus Activities team organizes these festive events to make the school year more fun.” A viewing of a hit 90s romcom, “10 Things I Hate About You,” was another Valentine’s Day-themed event hosted by Villanova’s Campus Activities Team on Saturday, Feb. 3. This movie has always been a hit and certainly brings about the spirit of love during the Valentine’s Day season. It took place in the Connelly Cinema, and students had easy access to delicious popcorn from the convenience store in Connelly Center,
as well as a fun movie night. Additionally, the Senior Class Gift Program will be offering an event that senior students can look forward to attending on Valentine’s Day. The event is called Sip and Paint, where seniors can enjoy painting with beer, wine and snacks for a $20 donation. Not only is this a fun event to do with friends and classmates, $10 of each ticket counts towards the Senior Class Gift and a donation to one’s favorite campus location. While all of these events are great ways to have fun and get involved with on campus activities, students have also expressed their excitement for the holiday through plans with friends and significant others. “I think the holiday is so cute and it brings me so much joy,” soph-
omore Madison Shields said. “I’m going to spend Valentine’s Day with my friends, have a nice dinner and spend quality time together.”
The holiday is beloved for its goal of bringing both friends and loved ones together to show their appreciation for one another.
Roses, a classic Valentine’s Day gift, gets everyone in the spirit to celebrate. Lauren Armstrong/Villanovan Photography
4 | The Villanovan
Wednesday, February 14, 2024
OPINION
OPINION
Students Should Get On-Campus Jobs Srihi Surapaneni Staff Writer Looking to make a little extra money? Consider applying for an on-campus job at Villanova. It is no secret that being a student can get pretty expensive at times. From buying textbooks to ordering DoorDash, to seeing concerts and going out with friends, everything can start to add up. Working part-time at Villanova is the perfect opportunity to gain some experience while also being able to chip away at some of those extra expenses. Other than the more wellknown jobs on campus, like VEMS member or a Holy Grounds barista, Villanova has many ways for students to get to work. Villanova’s jobs postings page currently lists more than one hundred flexible, part-time jobs open for applications. These jobs vary widely in pay, scheduling and experience required, so there’s something for everyone. They also encompass a variety of departments and fields across campus. Many of the jobs listed are in the academic departments, from Chemical Engineering to Geography and the Environment. These are perfect for students who want to get more involved and find some experience in their field of study, while also having the opportunity to meet experts in said field. Villanova also offers many services, programs and amenities to its students. As such, there are also many opportunities for students to
A Holy Grounds barista is just one of the many job oppurtunities on campus. Gabi Frank/Villanova Photography
work to help these things run smoothly. This includes the Art Gallery, the VSB Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurial, the Office of Education Abroad, UNIT, the Center for Resilient Water Systems, the Anne Welsh McNulty Institute for Women’s Leadership and even the Inn at Villanova. No matter where your interests lie, there’s an on-campus job posting listed there for you. Maybe one will even gain some relevant experience to boost one’s resume or make some important connections. And even if it is not specifically relevant experience, working while being a student teaches
many skills that employers are always looking for, including communication and problem-solving skills. Many students also worry about how to manage being a student while working. However, many of the jobs on campus are incredibly flexible with typical weekly hours of four to ten hours, and a maximum of twenty hours a week. And unlike some off-campus jobs, Villanova supervisors remember that their employees are students first and are willing to be understanding and work with them to figure out the schedules for them. Working where you live also adds another level of ease, cutting
down on transportation time and costs. And of course, being able to find the balance between worker and student also teaches another essential skill that future employers will love to see: time-management. Freshman Jess Hartley works as a scorekeeper for the intramural sports program. She emphasizes the convenience of Villanova’s on-campus work. “Having a job on campus has been a great opportunity to meet new people and make good use of my time,” Hartley said. “Being able to walk to work from dinner, my dorm or even class, has made being a student employee really accessible and convenient. Continuing my employment through the intramural team is definitely something I look forward to in my future at Villanova.” In addition to helping people manage time, working as a student encourages financial responsibility. Many Villanova students previously worked summer or part-time jobs in their hometowns. But being here on campus by oneself and working for one’s own money is a different experience. While one probably won’t be making as much money working part-time hours here, it is still good practice for life after graduation. No matter how far away that may seem, it’s never too early to start. If you have a few hours to spare and are ready to start covering some of those never-ending expenses while gaining experience, there are countless oppurtunities here at Villanova for you.
Why I Love Valentine’s Day (No, Really)
shapes. I don’t want to eat a regular peanut butter cup when I can have a pumpkin or egg. The hearts aren’t the superior shape by any means, but they are a small little thing that can get you The following content is purely through the cold winter. And if the satirical and entirely fictional. Don’t believe only thing getting you through Feb. everything you read! 14 is a piece of candy, you probably I love Valentine’s Day. No, deserve the sweet treat. Who needs seriously, I do. I know you might be a significant other when you have thinking that a satirical writer could peanut butter, right? never like Valentine’s Day. We are The next best thing about sarcastic and jaded and cynical. We could never enjoy such a happy, sappy Valentine’s Day is the movies, obviously. Now, Valentine’s Day is an holiday, right? Wrong. I love Valentine’s Day, and I am not going to apol- interesting holiday because the movies ogize for it. Maybe after I subject you that you can watch for it are not actually about it. You can watch any to my opinions on it (seeing as that is the entire point of this whole opinion romantic comedy and say it’s a Valentine’s Day movie. That extremely article thing), you’ll love Valentine’s broadens your horizons. Now, you get Day, too. First and foremost, there’s one to be sad and alone, watch any movie with Ryan Gosling and say you’re wonderful thing about Valentine’s celebrating a holiday. Day that I think most people can get There is, of course, the titular behind: candy. I don’t need to sell you movie, Valentine’s Day. Watching that on candy, but there is just something movie is my favorite annual tradition. special about Valentine’s Day candy. There is something so special about It is like Halloween, but you don’t watching not one, not two, but several have to pretend to be someone else. You get to eat candy while being your couples fall in love from the comfort of your empty, empty bedroom. It is true, sad single self. Those stupid little hearts with what the holiday is about in my opinthe words on them are disgusting, and ion. This year is extra special anyone who eats those should seek because it is my first one in college. immediate help. Those aside, Valentine’s Day does have a lot of specialty That means that, in addition to watching Valentine’s Day and eating candy that is worth the hype. Most important is Reese’s Hearts. I person- Reese’s hearts, I also get to referee an ally love the stretch from fall to spring intramural basketball game and write a philosophy paper. I do not know where there are different Reese’s Sof Quaglia Satire Columnnist
Even candy, like Reese’s hearts, can be festive. Courtesy ofShutterstock
about anyone else, but that sounds way more fun than the parties we used to have in elementary school. Who needs a paper Valentine’s Day card when you can write a paper about Plato? Now, I know that this has been incredibly catered to my single readers. I will remind you that this is my article, and I can write whatever I want. However, I will, momentarily, open the conversation to the people t he holiday is actually meant to celebrate: couples. I do not hate couples. Seriously, I am not that jaded (yet). If you are lucky enough to be in a relationship this Feb. 14, I sincerely hope you have a wonderful day. To those of you who are freshmen still in your long-distance high school relationship, I wish you the best of luck with that. We’ll save you a seat at the singles table for next year. I also love the new trend of
expecting your significant other, who is already literally your partner, to ask you to be their Valentine and then getting mad when they do not. I think this is a hilarious little joke, and I think that the girlies should keep that one up. It just makes things more fun for the rest of us. It shows that even couples can be miserable on this very special day. Not me, though. I am never miserable on Valentine’s Day. I seriously love it. It is just nice to have a whole holiday that simultaneously fills you with love and also the overwhelming fear that you are going to be alone forever. It is a good holiday for everyone: happy couples, people who hate love but love sugar and we grumpy satirical writers. With that in mind, I hope that everyone can go into this Valentine’s Day with a happier attitude, just like yours truly. Or be miserable, I don’t care. More Reese’s Hearts for me.
Wednesday, February 14, 2024
The Villanovan | 5
OPINION
EDITORIAL BOARD EMMA CAHILL Editor-in-Chief ARDEN WEST Editor-in-Chief BROOKE ACKERMAN Associate Editor-in-Chief AVERY CHALK Opinion Editor KAILEY FAHY Opinion Editor
LETTERS TO THE EDITORS
The Villanovan encourages all members of the Villanova community to voice their opinions. Letters to the editors may be submitted via e-mail to villanovan.eic@gmail.com. Letters must not exceed 500 words and must be signed. No anonymous letters will be published. All submissions become property of The Villanovan and are subject to editing for clarity and space.
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.
Free Laundry is Worth the Extra Tuition Majo James Staff Writer Establishing free laundry on campus is the Student Government Association’s (SGA) most recent accomplishment. It was spearheaded by Student Body President Thomas Dessoye and Vice President Dean Millard after many meetings and negotiations, and will go into effect the Fall Semester of 2024. “Free laundry has been an initiative SGA has strived to accomplish to remove the financial barriers of accessing a basic necessity that specifically affects lower- and middle-income students,” Dessoye said. “Paying directly out of pocket for laundry can be a challenge for students, and we want to ensure students do not have to worry about choosing whether or not they can wash and dry their clothes.” In order to enact free laundry on campus, Villanova has raised the price of room and board by $100 per annum or $50 per semester. Although some students reported this being excessive, the increase is actually very reasonable. So, let’s do the math. There are 103 academic days in the Fall Semester of 2024, not including breaks, which is a little under 15 weeks. If one were to do one laundry cycle every week
Students will now have unlimited access to all laundry machines. Katelyn Van Mater/Villanoan Photography
(under the current rate of $1.50 for wash and $1.50 for dry), this would come out to a total of $45. Therefore, if students did their laundry every week, plus their sheets, they would end up saving money from SGA’s laundry initiative. Furthermore, students’ financial aid packages will factor in the $100 increase, meaning that the initiative would increase accessibility across the board. There are many students on campus who
do laundry infrequently in order to save as much money as possible. However, this no longer needs to be the case. Students should not feel the need to skimp on something as essential as clean clothes. Of course, there is the argument that even with this, the initiative can’t be called “free” laundry if students are actually paying for it. However, there are plenty of services on campus that are pitched to students as “free,” despite their technically being paid
for via tuition, such as tutoring and counseling centers. The verbiage is consistent and therefore acceptable. Ultimately, the successful implementation of the free laundry initiative is indicative of SGA’s dedication to the student body and active role in shaping Villanova’s policies. I firmly believe that students should have a say in the University’s policies. Engagement with student leaders and administration results in just that.
Free Laundry Isn’t Really Free Carter Smith Staff Writer While the Student Government Association’s (SGA) recent announcement that Villanova Students no longer have to pay for laundry directly may seem like a boon at first, it is actually an example of the University nickel-and-diming students out of every possible penny. “Starting in fall 2024, students will not have to pay at the machine, but laundry cost will be embedded in the room charge,” SGA proclaimed on their Instagram page. They have marketed that student laundry is now “free” but in actuality “starting in Fall 2024, $100 will be included to students’ Room and Board Costs, allowing them to wash and dry laundry as much as they would like.” Despite the good intentions behind the SGA initiative and the unlimited nature of the new laundry arrangement, I believe this will actu-
ally increase the cost of laundry for many students. As my fellow writer Majo has calculated - if students do their laundry once per week, they spend approximately $45 per semester, equating to $90 on the year.
a cost increase of $10 per year to do laundry. While an extra $10 per year out of our/our parents’ pockets is not the end of the world, I find more frustration in the principle. SGA has championed this as a big win for the student body, when in actuality, most students won’t see a noticeable cost difference. This bill also does nothing to improve the other aspects of the laundry situation, which are severely lacking. Machines across campus are old and dysfunctional. Washers do not always start when they’re supposed to, dryers do not always dry clothes even when on the highest setting for a long time, clothes consistently come out wrinkled, Currently, laundry costs $1.50 per load. and multiple machines are consisKatelyn Van Mater/Villanoan Photography tently broken. From what I have seen and I am hoping the University heard during my nearly three years uses the extra profit from a service spent on this campus so far, most that should have already been students only have time to do their included in base room and board laundry once per week, if that. to upgrade to machines which are Ergo, lots of students will be seeing not infuriating to use.
6 | The Villanovan
Wednesday, February 14, 2024
OPINION
Representation in 2024 Awards Season: Hit or Miss?
films only for show. Freshman Charlie Insley is on the Steering Committee for VU Pride. They do not think the LGBTQIA+ community is well-represented, but The 2024 film and television that is not a reflection on the strength awards season kicked off on Jan. 7 and validation of the community. with the 81st Golden Globe Awards “Queer cinema is being made in Beverly Hills, California. Following and recognized, but not by the Hollythe four-month-long SAG-AFTRA wood bigwigs,” Insley said. “Frankly, strike, many stars were excited to I don’t think we need that to feel return to promotion and publicity. validated for our identities. Even if A momentous year for both film queer cinema doesn’t win, those films and television, including Oppenheimer, still touched a lot of people, which is Barbie, Poor Things, Anatomy of a Fall, the most important part.” Maestro, Succession and The Bear, led to However, Insley believes the watch numbers rising by 50%, reachaccuracy of the LGBTQIA+ story is ing more than nine million viewers what is missing. (CBC). A week later, the BAFTA Tea “Hollywood has limited scope Party and Critics Choice Awards about what being LGBTQ looks like,” occurred, followed by the 75th Emmy The Oscars are a prominent part of Hollywood Award Season, awarding movies. Insley said. “There’s so many perspecAwards. Courtesy of Shutterstock tives in the queer community that arSince La La Land’s release in Laughlin, remembered his 94-yearmurders committed against the Osage en’t being represented in mainstream 2016, I have been an avid follower of old grandma for her support throughNation in the early 1900s, provides a cinema either because of ignorance the film and television industry, watchout his career. serious and important depiction of or they don’t fit into their idea of who ing every awards show and studying Twenty-twenty-three addithe atrocities that indigenous people LGBTQ people are, what we look like the various patterns and politics of tionally proved to be a breakthrough have faced for centuries. Despite this and who and how we love.” them. I have my own Letterboxd year for diversity in cinema. Reprerepresentation, many films and televiRepresentation for minorities account, allowing me to rate and list sentation for LGBTQIA+ people was sion shows I found to be award-worin mainstream media has increased different movies and shows. extremely present, with hits such as thy lost to straight, heterosexual, over the years. The growth of diverse While it is exciting to watch Rustin, All of Us Strangers and Felheteronormative white stories. It is Hollywood portrayals has solidified who wins each award, a large part of low Travelers. This is a groundbreak- interesting how many award shows the experience of many actresses, the reason I do so is because it gives ing win for the queer community, as choose the same winners. Shouldn’t actors, producers, screenwriters and each winner a perfect encapsulation even 10 years ago, queer media was all of these different voting academies directors. of who they are. Cillian Murphy, extremely limited. The Asian comhave different definitions of what Hopefully, this is only the start when giving his Golden Globes munity was also portrayed strongly in makes a show award-winning? of more wins for stories that have speech for his role as Robert OppenWith certain wins and losses, stayed unrecognized for centurites. heimer, had his wife’s lipstick covering Beef, May December and Past Lives. Beef’s Steven Yeun and Ali Wong made there have been many conversations Representing the “white, heteronorhis nose. Will Ferrell and Kristen history as the first Asian people to win online regarding the “snubs’’ of the mative, straight experience” to be the Wiig, when presenting male actor in Golden Globes, Critics Choice and season. Several fans wonder if Holmain experience is extremely detria motion picture, gave a short dance. Emmys in a singular week. Killers of lywood’s true biases come from the mental to Hollywood’s industry. After Jonathan Bailey, who won a Critics the Flower Moon, which explores the popular wins, nominating diverse all, the goal is to connect people. Choice Award for his role as Tim Natalie Murphy Staff Writer
Villanova’s Door Holding Etiquette: Nice or Just Awkward? Kailey Fahy Co-Opinion Editor As the proverbial saying goes, “When one door closes, another one opens.” This saying especially holds true for Villanovans, as holding the door is a practice Villanova students partake in quite frequently. Holding the door is widely accepted as a social norm that gives an opportunity for people to display their politeness. It’s a common practice around the world. However, it appears to be much more prevalent at Villanova University. It’s a tangible, yet simple, way for students to display Villanova’s core values of Caritas, Unitas and Veritas on a daily basis. When speaking about how to enact kindness into the world, many begin to think of large-scale projects, like curing cancer or putting an end to world hunger. The beauty of kindness, though, is that it can truly be found in the day to day, easy acts of life, in ways such as holding the door for others. Students at Villanova will go to great lengths to prevent the door from slamming in the face of the individual following them. Even though it may feel like forever between someone opening the door and the next person walking through, the act of being thought of is appreciated nonetheless. While some say Villanovans take this act too far and create awkward and unnecessary social interactions that could have been
avoided if people were to just keep walking without looking back, this small act truly does have the power to make someone else’s day. To some extent, it can crush people’s fears of their invisibility by making them feel seen and considered by another. “I think the door holding gesture at Villanova reflects the community values and respect found within the student body,” freshman Michael Galbato said.“I don’t remember the last time I actually opened a door for myself.” While door holding etiquette at Villanova underscores assumed kindness toward one another, it prompts the question as to whether or not students would extend such gestures privately. While passing the door to the person behind requires minimal effort, holding it for close to ten seconds all while making intense eye contact with the person trailing can test one’s patience. Yet, I see this exact scenario play out daily all over campus. While it can be argued that, yes, students are doing this just to be nice, some may also say it is because it is a public act of kindness. Often, it is not only the person one is holding the door for who recognizes this courtesy, but also the surrounding people can take notice. While it is indisputable that the act of holding the door open for the person behind you is a thoughtful one, this does not negate the fact that when no one is looking, Villanovans (and people in general) do not always
A student holds the door for another student as they walk into Falvey Library. Brian Luppy / Villanovan Photography
display these same thoughtful characteristics. Holding the door for others serves as a beacon of who Villanova students are. When describing the kindness of Villanova’s student body to prospective families, people almost always bring up how, even if the person is ten feet behind you, Villanovans will always keep the door open. However, the true test of what it means to be a Villanovan is what happens when the acts are not as public. Taking this patience and grace into the private acts of daily life is just as essential as exemplify-
ing them in public. Whether it be resisting the urge to dump someone’s clean laundry on the ground or not cutting others in line when you think no one else is looking, being a decent person in private is as easy as holding the door in public. While temptation is more prevalent in the private decisions we make, individuals should be able to harness their door holding eitquette. Students should strive to carry the door holding etiquette our community so proudly boasts about into our day-to-day lives to truly live the values of Caritas, Unitas and Veritas.
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The Villanovan | 7
CULTURE
CULTURE
Play Preview: Father Peter’s Crazy for You a cultural classic with a modern spin. Crazy for You features musical treasures written by the puissant princes of the Jazz Age, George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin. Jazz continued from p.1 connoisseurs will enjoy hearing notable classic tunes like “I Got University of Illinois at UrbaRhythm” and “Embraceable na-Champaign. You,” on the stage. When Father Peter was “One of the biggest things working towards his doctorate de[the actors] had to learn was gree, he served as a theater teachtap-dancing,” Father Peter said. er at the University of Illinois. The cast for Villanova’s From 1992 (the year he became version of Crazy for You will boast the Theater Department Chair) approximately 30 members, into 2006, he was annually directing cluding undergraduates, graduate productions that dazzled Villanostudents, staff and alumni. Many vans and non-Villanovans alike. other Villanovans have also shown The Theatre Alliance of Greater interest in the upcoming producPhiladelphia has even recognized tion. him as a talented administrator Father Peter is always a lot of the arts, awarding him with a of fun, so something he directed Barrymore Award for Outstanding will be fun,” Sophomore Dimitri Production of a Musical. Vassiliou said. “I know the cos“It’s two and a half hours tumes are very exquisite.” of escape,” Father Peter said “I heard that every year’s about his show, and Crazy for You is play is better than the last, so it’s guaranteed to be an escape. The supposed to be an amazing show,” production follows Bobby Child, a Freshman Kasey Wood remarked. down-on-his-luck uptown banker All performances of Crazy in the 1930s who dreams of makfor You will take place in Topper ing it big as a Broadway dancer. Theater in the John and Joan After his employer sends him to Mullen Center for the Performing Nevada to foreclose a theater, he Arts. The show will be running becomes intertwined with the likes Thursday from Sunday, Feb. 15 of the theater owner’s daughto Feb. 25 at 8 p.m. and 2 p.m. on ter, pulling him into a hysterical Sundays. adventure full of love, dreams and Whether one is craving showstopping dancing skills. some quality theater or looking for Fans of the classic Ameriweekend entertainment, make sure can songbook or the original Crazy to check out the show and witness for You production by Ken Ludwig the wondrous Villanovans work and Mike Ockrent will be nostaltheir magic. gic to see Villanovans performing Christopher Brown Staff Writer
Students are able to attend Crazy For You, live at the John and Joan Mullen Center for the Performing Arts.
Brian Luppy/Villanovan Photography
Celebrating Black History Month on Campus Bella Cipresso Staff Writer Black History Month is an annual observance in honor of Black people’s legacies, achievements and adversities throughout history. Originating in 1926 when Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History established the first Negro History Week, the holiday gained momentum. In 1976, the United States officially designated February as Black History Month. In 2024, the Black History Month theme is “African Americans and the Arts,” focusing on African Americans in performing arts, literature, film and fashion. Notable figures include Gwendolyn Brooks, Kerry James Marshall, Elizabeth Keckley and Ethel Waters. Brooks, the first African American Pulitzer-winning poet, explored themes of race and identity in her literary works. Marshall’s paintings offer perspective on Black identity in America and Keckley’s journey from being enslaved to making a living as a fashion designer demonstrates Black resilience. Waters, an actress and singer, broke racial barriers with her performances. Together, these individuals and so many more
Villanova is holding many events to commemorate Black History Month on campus. Courtesy of Natalie Zickel/Villanovan Digital
illustrate the impact of African Americans on shaping culture and inspiring new art forms. “Black History Month is very special to me,” Villanova Black Student Union member Sidney Mbah said. “I appreciate the love and respect that amazing Black people get during this month. It teaches me more about the incredible feats that people I share similarities with have done and this empowers me and gives
me the strength to tackle obstacles I face in my life.” At Villanova, Black History Month is celebrated through a variety of activities to explore Black culture, history and accomplishments. The events being held throughout February range from lectures and panel discussions to film screenings and dance classes. Villanova hosted a Black History Community Dance Class on Feb. 9, organized by LASO
and Emanuel “Manny” Chacon and co-sponsored by The Superlative, Wazobia and Ablaze. Upcoming events include an Author Visit by Dr. Dionne Irving on Feb. 19 at 5 p.m. in Falvey Library Speaker’s Corner and the ACS concert series on Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. in St. Thomas of Villanova Church. “Events like these are so important for campus community,” Student Jason Anthony said. “They bring people together, they create space for open dialogue and respect and they sometimes inspire social change.” By participating in Black History Month, individuals can expand their knowledge of black individuals and their experiences. Encouraging a deeper understanding of diverse experiences contributes to a more inclusive and equitable society. “As a young Black woman, I find inspiration in the narratives of those who have overcome adversity and blazed trails throughout history,” Villanova Black Student Union member McKenzie Ohene said. “This inspiration fuels a desire to contribute to positive change and amplify the voices of marginalized communities. Embracing this month provides an opportunity to reflect, learn and take pride in the rich culture of the Black experience.”
Wednesday, February 14, 2024
CULTURE
8 | The Villanovan
Valentine’s Day Zodiac Survival Guide
are. Cancer (June 21 - July 22): Cancer, Valentine’s Day is all about embracing those warm and fuzzy emotions. Bake heart-shaped We have consulted the stars cookies or binge-watch rom-coms to bring you the ultimate survival while relishing in the camaraderie of guide for Valentine’s Day. Whether friendship and affection. For couples, you are flying solo, coupled up or why not plan a cozy night in and just looking for a good laugh with exchange love letters over a candlelit friends, we have got you covered. dinner of microwaved ramen? Aries (March 21 - April 19): Leo (July 23 - August 22): Aries, with your adventurLeo, turn heads with your ous nature, Valentine’s Day is just confidence and flair with a night on another day to conquer. Gather your the town. Whether you’re exploring friends for a Galentine’s Day filled trendy Philly restaurants, checking with pizza, pajamas and laughs. If out live music venues or hitting the you’re coupled up, channel your dance floor, embrace the exciteenergy into planning an adrenament of the city. And if you’re in a line-filled date, like an escape room relationship, plan a romantic dinin King of Prussia. Nothing says ner with your partner to Founding romance like trying to escape from a Fathers. fake jail together. Virgo (August 23 - September Taurus (April 20 - May 20): 22): Taurus, indulge in some Virgo, take charge of your much-deserved self-love this ValenValentine’s Day plans by hosting tine’s Day. Treat yourself to some a DIY crafting party with friends chocolate-covered strawberries from or your partner. Get creative with Second Storey and pamper yourself homemade valentines, heartfelt with a spa day in your dorm room. poems or gifts for your loved ones. If you’re in a relationship, plan a ro- Whether you’re crafting solo, colmantic evening in with your partner, laborating with friends or with that complete with CampCo takeout and special someone, put your heart and a rom-com movie marathon. soul into every handmade creation. Gemini (May 21 - June 20): Libra (September 23 - October Gemini, this Valentine’s Day, 22): roll the dice and see where the winds Libra, spread the love this of adventure take you. Drag your Valentine’s Day by organizing a friends on a whirlwind tour of new group outing with friends to volunrestaurants or maybe crash a local teer at a local charity. For couples, a event. And for couples, surprise your romantic evening out sounds nice, partner with an impromptu date but let’s not forget that shared love to TopGolf in King of Prussia and of CampCo pizza – because true pray they’re as spontaneous as you love means agreeing on toppings. Lexie Scibilia Staff Writer
Scorpio (October 23 - November 21): Scorpio, this Valentine’s Day, channel your passion into something other than stalking your crush’s Instagram. Spend the evening journaling in Conn or exploring your creative side – who needs love when you have a masterpiece in the making? And for those with a significant other, why not create a cozy indoor picnic in your room? Gather some snacks, lay out a blanket and enjoy a romantic evening of shared treats and conversation. Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21): Sagittarius, embark on a solo adventure this Valentine’s Day by exploring the vibrant streets of Philadelphia. Go on a self-guided scavenger hunt in Fairmount Park or check out the light show at Franklin Square. If you’re in a relationship, plan a fun-filled day with your partner or take a stroll through Stoneleigh. Capricorn (December 22 - January 19):
Capricorn, celebrate your achievements this Valentine’s Day with a dinner worthy of your greatness. Whether solo or with friends, indulge in the finer things in life – because why settle for love when you can have LaScala’s? For couples, a special date night is in order, complete with splurging on dessert. Aquarius (January 20 - February 18): Aquarius, embrace your individuality this Valentines Day and celebrate in your unique style. For singles or those spending the day with friends, why not go on a thrifting adventure in Havertown? And for couples, channel your inner child and build a blanket fort together. Pisces (February 19 - March 20): Pisces, spread the love this Valentine’s Day by reaching out to those in need with acts of kindness and generosity. If you’re in a relationship, plan a romantic evening in with your partner, complete with plenty of cuddles– we all know your love language is physical touch.
Enjoy the perfect Valentine’s Day according to your star sign. Courtesy of Hayden Karnes/Villanova Digital
Books for Fun: New Popular Reading Service at Falvey Cali Carss Staff Writer
On Monday, Feb. 5, Falvey Library celebrated the official installation of its new popular reading service. The event, held in Speaker’s Corner, was a small affair in which University Librarian and Director of Falvey Library Millicent Gaskell, gave a brief speech, and there was a ceremonial ribbon cutting. Gaskell’s welcoming points highlighted the fact that this new service is fulfilling a need in the Villanova student population – books to read for fun outside of class. Often, when a student goes into the stacks, they are searching for a book for a class and probably are not too thrilled about the whole ordeal. The stacks can be confusing, and most people probably don’t think to look there first for novels or popular titles. This service is working to fix that, encompassing more than four hundred titles recommended by a student selection committee and sourced specifically for people to read for fun. The Popular Reading section of the library, found on the wall right next to Speaker’s Corner and marked with a brand-new sign, is intended to serve as a rotating collection of popular titles brought in through input from students. The survey for students interested in joining the selection committee was created over the summer and was released early in the Fall Semester, but the initial idea much predated that. “We actually started thinking about this last spring,” communica-
tion, sociology and criminology psychology librarian Nicole Daly said. “It did take some time to go from okay is there interest, how do we find out whether or not there is and then how do we make that an actual committee and get the books all on the shelf.” It would take the team of librarians and students the rest of the fall to decide on which books to include, order them and prepare the final product that was unveiled at the opening event last Monday. The morning before the event itself is something metrics and assessment librarian Danielle Dempsey recalls fondly. “We start every Monday morning with a department meeting, and right afterwards we went downstairs to set up all the books,” Dempsey said. “And the students came, and they helped us decide which books would face outward. Everyone was just very involved and excited.” Natalie Schirmacher, a
these sought-after books accessible to Villanova students. The service allows students to take out a maximum of five books at a time, and books can be kept for two weeks (and renewed for two extra weeks). This is a much shorter window than Falvey usually allows, but in order to get these books to as many students as possible, this service uses different rules from any other collection the library houses. This allows there to constantly be new, fun titles for avid readers to try out. Schirmacher is an enthusiastic participant herExplore the newest edition to Falvey Library now. self. When asked what books she was Courtesy of Brian Luppy particularly excited about, she happily student on the selection committee, showed off the stack she had checked shared that it was an equally gratify- out at the event. ing experience to walk into the launch It should come as no surprise event having been involved in the that many people in attendance went process. home with their own miniature col“It’s one thing to see a list of lection of titles following the launch hundreds and hundreds of books, and event. Many students are able to then you walk in and you’re like, ‘I share in this joy for reading, whether actually picked that book and now it’s by joining the selection committee, on a shelf,’” Schirmacher said. dropping their recommendations It was especially exciting as in Falvey’s suggestion box or just the students who selected the titles checking out the available books on hadn’t seen the physical collection yet. their own. A new page on the Falvey “The library community is so website is dedicated solely to the fun,” Schirmacher said, “And when popular reading service, and students you’re all of a sudden surrounded by can view the entire collection as well a bunch of other book nerds, it’s super as view the main library catalog if the fun to all be super excited about books book they’re seeking is part of Falvey’s and reading.” permanent inventory. This energy came across The newest edition to Falvey at last Monday’s celebration, with Library is a wonderful way to draw attendees taking most of the time more students into the library comto peruse the shelves, pointing out munity and to underscore the imbooks they had read before or taking portance of all forms of reading. stacks of titles on their list to check Whether it’s a textbook for class or the out. The joy evident at the event latest fantasy novel just for fun, there emphasizes the importance of having is something for everyone at Falvey.
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CAT, ASA and VISO Hosts Lunar New Year Celebration Julia O’Keefe Staff Writer
Villanova’s Campus Activities Team, Asian Student Association and Villanova International Students Organization hosted a Lunar New Year celebration in Café Nova last Friday, Feb. 2 with music, authentic food, a photo booth and cultural crafts. The Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year or Spring Festival, is a 15-day celebration marking the arrival of spring and the start of a new year, according to the lunisolar calendar. The festival begins each year on the second new moon after the winter solstice. This year it began on Feb. 10. The festival ends 15 days later, on the first full moon. “Lunar New Year is centered around removing bad luck for the year and welcoming good luck and prosperity,” senior and Villanova ASA President Alice Wu said. The Lunar New Year is based on the Lunar Calendar rather than the Gregorian calendar. There are 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac: rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, snake, horse, sheep, money, rooster, dog, dragon and pig. Each zodiac sign is believed to mark the personality and fortune of individuals born that year. This Feb. 10 marks the beginning of the year
of the dragon, and people born this year are defined as energetic, determined, idealistic and independent. “CAT’s Lunar New Year celebration was a collaboration between CAT, VISO and ASA to celebrate Lunar New Year and its many variations with the entire Villanova community,” Wu said. “The three organizations got together to organize some popular activities like calligraphy and delicious food like spring rolls and dumplings for the campus.” Although celebrations between Asian countries vary, the Lunar New Year is often celebrated with parades, enjoying traditional food and cultural performances. China specifically celebrates by eating dumplings and wearing red, as red symbolizes prosperity. Family members may also pass down red envelopes filled with money to symbolize good energy and happiness in the new year. Together, CAT, ASA and VISO hoped to share a piece of Chinese culture with the rest of the Villanova community who may not celebrate Lunar New Year or know much about its historical and cultural significance. ASA was especially involved in planning the activities at the event, which consisted of calligraphy, lantern decorating and origami. “It feels nice to know such
a big organization [like CAT] looks towards diverse holidays to introduce to campus,” Wu said. “It is important to acknowledge diversity in culture and identity to ensure that everyone feels welcome. The historical and cultural significance of the Lunar New Year to many Asian ethnicities
is not something common to the campus population, and it was really nice to share a snippet of my culture and calligraphy skills.” For more information on upcoming cultural events and celebrations on campus, follow @ villanovacat and @villanovaasa on Instagram.
Students were able to celebrate the Lunar New Year with festivities held in COVA.. Courtesy of Campus Activities Team
VillaVogue: The Grammys 2024 Recap Ciara Dursee Staff Writer On Sunday, Feb. 4 in Los Angeles California, the famous red carpet rolled out and the 66th annual Grammy Award ceremony commenced. Airing live on CBS, the Grammy Awards were hosted by comedian and former “Daily Show” host Trevor Noah for the fourth year in a row. These artists in attendance put immense dedication into expressing their thoughts and emotions in every piece they write, play or vocalize. Before the musical recognition inside the venue, the artists walked with purpose and elegance down the trail of red velvet. Each year uncovers a new magnitude of bold, unique and chic. The dress code is simple: express yourself. These artists are all unique in their sound, and it’s easy to forget that these ceremonies give them a chance to reveal their style. Below, see the tasteful looks on the red carpet at the 2024 Grammy Awards. Dua Lipa: Shining through in her Courreges long-sleeve gown, Dua Lipa wore a style inspired by Joan of Arc. The dress was fully covered in metal fringe sequins, heavy to bare, yet astonishing. Her gown had a deep V-neck with two smaller cutouts on her hips, matched with pointy silver heels. Dua’s flashy accessory preference was an 18k yellow gold gem-encrusted fish necklace and matching cuff with orange sapphires, padparadscha sapphires, rubellites and diamonds from Tiffany & Co. Taylor Swift: Before making history by win-
ning Album of the Year for the fourth time, Taylor Swift impressed spectators with her stunning white strapless Schiaparelli gown. Her dress was coupled with a simple pair of black opera gloves that reached to her shoulders. She wore several accessories, including a vintage Lorraine Schwartz watch that was turned into a choker, appearing to be set at midnight. Swift added about 300 carats of Lorraine Schwartz Diamonds in the six chains on her necklace and a heavy red lip to finish off her elegant, yet bold look. Janelle Monáe: Singer and rapper Janelle Monáe did not take “dress to impress” lightly. The shimmering black sequins covering her Giorgio Armani Privé gown were simply head-turners. The dress was decorated with a trim of silver beads down the deep V-neck and floral accents of black and silver crystals along the waistline. Olivia Rodrigo: Perfectly capturing a 90s look in a vintage Versace gown, singer-songwriter Olivia Rodrigo was glowing on the red carpet. The red and white crystal-embellished gown originally debuted in 1995 on Linda Evangelista; it was beautifully worn then and beautifully modeled now by Rodrigo. She accessorized with red and silver earrings, a powerful red lip and her hair was delicately curled down to her side. Lana Del Rey: Lana Del Rey wore a floral black dress, with a heavy accent on her puffed sleeves and a coquette bow in her hair. Her shoes were black, each with a sweet bow attached to the tip, similar to her matching gloves, also accessorized with little bows. She carried a black purse and wore Fred Leighton jewels. Lana’s hair bangs
were curled to complete the look. Simply chic. Yes, taking an elegant yet sophisticated route on the red carpet is always a definite hit. However, several artists chose to stand out above all. Now, let’s take a look at some of the most unique looks of the night. Miley Cyrus: Dressed bold and gold, Miley Cyrus took a striking initiative for this year’s Grammy ceremony, wearing a dress completely made out of safety pins. Pulling off five outfit changes in the entire night, her red carpet debut gown was arguably the most compelling. Nearly all of her skin was exposed in her mesh gown by John Galliano for Maison Margiela. She added a beloved 70s hairstyle that resembled her godmother, Dolly Parton, teased up high, paired with her Tiffany & Co. Jewelry. Cyrus topped off her golden look with matching gold Tabi heels. Billie Eilish: A “red carpet regular” and one of the youngest music stars attending the Grammys, singer-songwriter Billie Eilish took to the carpet confidently in an oversized Barbie vintage varsity jacket with up-cylced details reworked by Chrome hearts. Underneath the main component of her outfit, she chose a Willy Chavarria white button-up with a black tie and wide-leg black pants. Her platform boots conformed with the color coordination of her outfit. Her red and black hair added an extra flair of color to the overall look. Eilish’s song “What Was I Made For?” from the film, Barbie, continues to be rewarded with honors, and she even performed it live at the ceremony. While the style she sported may be unique from typical red carpet looks, it truly honored
her purpose in attending the show. Ice Spice: Not holding back for her first Grammy Awards, singer-songwriter Ice Spice arrived on the carpet wearing a completely custom Baby Phat gown. Kimora Lee Simmons was appointed president and creative director for Phat Fashions, which includes Baby Phat, becoming one of the first women of color ever to preside over a stable of fashion brands. The brand has been worn by celebrities like Missy Elliot, Jennifer Lopez and many other women of color and praised for its celebration of Black Identity and style. Decked out in a fully denim look, Ice Spice wore a denim jacket lined with fur and a matching denim skirt that trailed behind her with every step. Her goal was to bring Baby Phat the presence it deserves on a stage as prominent as the Grammy’s. The chatter surrounding her outfit throughout the night is an indicator that she succeeded in just that. Doja Cat: Catching everyone by surprise, singer and rapper Doja Cat arrived in designer Dilara Findikoglu, making it abundantly clear for everyone to see, as the designer’s name was tattooed on her forehead in a Gothic font near her hairline. She wore a sheer gown that was revealing enough to flaunt temporary tattoos all over her body. The back of the dress had a trail of corset boning and draping down her spine to the floor. She wore thick red wedge heels, pairing well with her red lips and Prada glasses as an added touch. Despite the praise she received for being expressive and unique, Doja also received criticism for her daring choices and lack of modesty.
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Wednesday, February 14, 2024
CULTURE
Love on Lancaster: Valentine’s Edition Vivi Melkonian Former EIC Whether in a relationship, single or somewhere in between, Valentine’s Day in college is more pest than perfection. The Hallmark holiday is certainly not catered toward college students living in shoebox rooms, and Spit doesn’t exactly fit the dim-lit romantic restaurant mold. Valentine’s Day often facilitates more anxiety than flowers, especially in college. It calls into question the status of any situationship, begging the inevitable, “What are we?”-conversation. In the age of Snapchat-over-love-letters, one has to wonder if all love is lost. The truth is, Valentine’s Day wasn’t made for the 18-to-22year-old crowd. We’re on lower budgets, lacking a space to ourselves and somewhat commitment averse. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be fun. Whether you’re in the 21-plus crowd set to embark on the ultimate singles mixer this Wednesday (Mug Night), or one of those easy-to-hate-on happily in love folks, there are options for you. Single You’re never really flying solo as long as you have your friends. After all, Valentine’s Day is about love, and that includes platonic love. But…if we’re some-
what bitter about the whole pink, red and chocolate explosion, this is completely understandable. Let’s save ourselves the fury and have the ultimate night in, complete with make-your-ownpizza and one of the Big Three romantic movies: The Notebook, Crazy, Stupid Love or When Harry Met Sally. If you’re dormbound, a group CampCo delivery is in order. Popcorn with M&Ms mixed in is certain to make this the perfect Valentine’s Night-In. Taken Not everyone hates your relationship, so long as you don’t over-flaunt it via Instagram stories this Wednesday. But let’s be realistic: you’re not in your mid-30s. There’s no reason to act like it. Go to a nice-ish restaurant, not a fancy restaurant. Opt for BYOB over a place that brushes your tablecloth between bites. If you’re in something long-term, add a little honeymoon phase-esque romance back into it — a little peck in the parking lot or ice cream at Hope’s for dessert. For underclassmen, if Zipcar is booked or your older friends aren’t feeling generous with their vehicles, kindly ask your roommate for a couple hours of space and order in something fun to share. My personal recommendation is two orders of Vic’s Sushi’s three for $14.95 rolls. Perfect to share across the desk of a Sully shoebox. There’s only one rule, one
Single or taken, commemorate Valentine’s Day with a heart shaped pizza and chocolate covered strawberries.
nonnegotiable, one absolute must for any Valentine: flowers. Somewhere in between Valentine’s Day can be very telling for those in situationships, talking stages or anything of the sort. The phrase “if they wanted to, they would,” often comes to mind. Save yourself the frustration and uncertainty and live by another mantra this V-day: no label, no plans. No more sitting around waiting for your could-be-boyfriend to maybe, just maybe schedule some last-minute, half-formed plan. If they’re not your official significant other, Wednesday, Feb. 14 should be booked and busy. Of course, there’s always an
Courtesy of Maggie Fitzgerald
exception. If they make plans for you all five-to-seven business days in advance, it’s only right to accept. This is a good sign you’re about to go from “somewhere-in-between” to “something.” Valentine’s Day is overwhelming, if nothing else. But, it’s only a day. A mere 24 hours of insufferable social media love proclamations and socially-pressured romance. It can be fun, but it’s not everything. Nothing is worth the anxiety and stress that Valentine’s Day seems to induce. No matter your relationship status, nobody has power over your worth and love for yourself.
Off The Reserve; On the Mark Michael Bradley Cub Reporter On Feb. 9, 1962, a quartet from Liverpool made its first American appearance as a guest on the Ed Sullivan Show, igniting Beatlemania in the U.S. Sixty years to the day later, at the venerable Rusty Nail tavern in Havertown, Off the Reserve served as the fulcrum of a five-band bill and tore through a 10-song set that was as eclectic as those in attendance. The audience included gray-haired patrons, semi-Goth music fans and a fiveyear old girl who was either the world’s youngest music critic or just a child being raised the right way. Off The Reserve is comprised of four Villanova seniors: Michael Castelli (drums, guitar, vocals), Michael Simeone (vocals, guitar), Dominic Veltri (bass, synthesizer, vocals) and Brendan King (guitar, drums and vocals). The band entertained the assembled music fans with a collection of originals, covers and a tribute to the Beatles, who are clearly an influence on the group. The set began with a driving rendition of the Killers’ “When You Were Young” and transitioned into a pair of originals, “Damned Ambitions,” which Castelli described as being about his “raging gambling addiction” (no doubt an exaggeration) and “Take Me With You,” a hard rocker with music by Veltri and words
by Simeone, who has a honed the guitar hero motif perfectly. Veltri
Members of Off The Reserve jam out at local show. Courtesy of Brendan King
was content to hang back from the microphone while providing
a titanium bass spine that veered occasionally into funkier grooves. Castelli played both guitar and drums during the gig and continues to bring an energetic spark to the band. Following “Valerie,” which was written and originally performed by The Zutons, another Liverpool outfit, and later covered by Mark Ronson with legendary Amy Winehouse on the vocals, King’s bouncy “Run With Me” concluded the original portion of the program. It featured King on guitar (after he opened the show behind the drum kit). King plays horns in Villanova’s pep and jazz bands, yet still seems most content making a six-string roar. The bow to the Fab ones featured “She Loves You” and “I Want to Hold Your Hand” and was followed by a somewhat incongruous version of Pink Floyd’s “Time,” that cheered the older heads in the audience. King channeled his inner Bono during “Vertigo,” and the band rambled through a rowdy version of Luke Bryan’s “Country Girl (Shake It For Me)” that closed the proceedings. It was a triumph by a group that is transitioning from solely playing classic-rock covers and is approaching its craft with a maturing eye. Near the end of “Time,” King sang, “The time is gone, the song is over/Thought I’d something more to say.” Off The Reserve absolutely has more for us, and we would be wise to pay attention.
Wednesday, February 14, 2024
The Villanovan | 13
CULTURE
‘Come Together’ for 60 Years of The Beatles
“The Beatles’ original singles, ‘Love Me Do,’ ‘Please Please Me’ [and] ‘She Loves You’ had all been increasing hits in the UK, but nothing had crossed the ocean yet,” Hollinger Six decades ago, Americans said. “So, ‘I Want to Hold Your heard the immortal words of Ed Sul- Hand’ was the thin end of the wedge. livan that began a new era of music Happily, for them, they soon discovand culture: “Ladies and gentlemen… ered that the way had been paved T H E B E A T L E S!” through people’s being knocked out The Beatles first arrived in by this song, creating a great hunger America 60 years ago this past week. for the music that was to follow. It was John Lennon, Paul McCartney, like a red carpet being rolled out for George Harrison and Ringo Starr them.” were greeted by thousands of screamThe Beatles were ready for ing fans at John F. Kennedy Airport America, and America was ready in New York on Feb. 7, 1964. “Beatle- for The Beatles. Americans were mania” had officially begun. immediately exposed to not just the In addition to efforts to group’s music, but also each member’s branch out across the United Kingpersonality and sharp wit. Whenever dom, they knew that achieving success asked questions by reporters at a press in America would elevate their popu- conferences, all four men were always larity dramatically. Michael Hollinger, quick to respond with sarcastic, albeit professor of The Beatles: Song by fun and lighthearted, remarks. Song at Villanova, believes that After a few days of avoiding achieving success in the United States scores of fans outside their hotel room was the true benchmark for English and a trip to Central Park (minus bands at the time. Harrison, who was sick), The Beat“The real test of UK artists in les took part in, arguably, the most many fields, especially in music, was important musical moment in televi‘Can you cross the ocean to that other sion history: their first performance big, English-speaking country to the on The Ed Sullivan Show. Broadcast west?’” Hollinger said. on CBS, The Ed Sullivan Show was Different stories emerged one of the premier variety shows in over the years regarding the group’s America at the time. decision to travel to the U.S. in 1964. “It was a very mainstream McCartney claims that they did not show, meaning that a large number of want to go to the States until they American households would tune in had a no. 1 hit there. However, other weekly,” Hollinger said. Beatles historians, including Hollinger, On the night of Feb. 9, 1964, are more inclined to believe that the 73 million viewers tuned in to the Ed group’s visit was planned in advance, Sullivan Show to watch The Beatles regardless of their status on the charts. perform. Those watching all over the “I believe the latter is true,” country, as well as in the studio audiHollinger said. “Their itinerary was ence, could not contain their exciteplanned in the fall [of 1963], so they ment. would not have been guaranteed that The Beatles performed five that would have taken place at the songs during their appearance: “All time.” My Loving,” “Till There Was You” Regardless of which side of (originally from the hit musical The the story is accurate, The Beatles did Music Man), “She Loves You,” “I score a no. 1 single in the U.S. prior Saw Her Standing There” and “I to their arrival with the release of “I Want to Hold Your Hand.” With Want to Hold Your Hand.” the exception of “She Loves You,” Brendan King Staff Writer
all songs performed were from the group’s debut album with Capitol Records, Meet the Beatles! The group’s breakout success drew attention to a burgeoning English cultural scene. It sparked the British Invasion, with bands such as The Rolling Stones, The Kinks, The Animals and The Dave Clark Five gaining notoriety in America. “[There was] a rise of a London cultural scene that wasn’t just musical,” Hollinger said. “It also impacted the art world and impacted the fashion world. Those things were certainly aided by the fact that The Beatles were making such forays in America.” The Beatles’ visit to the U.S. and other seminal moments throughout the group’s career are discussed in Hollinger’s class. According to Hollinger, the main mission of the course is to “figure out why The Beatles are so awesome.” “More broadly, because their career maps really closely to the 1960s, it’s a class about the 1960s,” Hollinger said. Hollinger also teaches music theory in the class. He implements a technique that he calls “tree spotting,” in which he trains students to listen for certain instruments, melodies and production techniques within each song and album. “Some people are utterly new to music theory, [and] other people are experienced musicians,” Hollinger said. “I do use musical terminolo-
gy. We study chords, melody [and] rhythm, as well as lyrics.” The class is welcoming to everyone, as students enrolled in it range from superfans to those who know little more than the name of the group. “There are really hardcore fans, and there are fans who are like, ‘I don’t really know anything about The Beatles, but my parents like them,’” Hollinger said. Mark Faverzani, a junior computer science major and music minor, took the class during the Spring Semester of 2023. He grew up listening to The Beatles but still learned a lot in the course. “I’ve been a Beatles fan ever since I was a kid, from my parents,” Faverzani said. “I love The Beatles and it worked for my music minor, and I was just really excited to learn about The Beatles’ history and get more into the music.” Faverzani thought the class was a lot of fun, and he believes that it is important for fellow students to learn more about the band because its music is, “transcendent of all generations.” “It’s important for people our age to learn about older musicians, especially ones who were so influential,” Faverzani said. “The artists people listen to today are influenced by The Beatles, so learning about the music that influenced their artists will, hopefully, give more appreciation to music they listen to.”
60 years since The Beatles came to America, yet their legacy continues on today. Courtesy of Shutterstock
Glad I Exist: An Exploration of Happiness Ean Steidle Staff Writer In the upcoming weeks, the Performing Studies Area in Villanova’s Department of Communication will present Glad I Exist. It is a solo show exploring the ideas of happiness and unhappiness in alignment with what exactly defines them through forms of song, story and poetry. The show will explore various pieces of media, including five interviews that were recently conducted by Senior Director MinChau Scott. Each interview was conducted with a focus on what happiness means to the individual and the various factors in finding happiness. “If I had to describe the vibe of the show, I would say it’s a sort of a softer, more artistic take on a TED Talk,” Scott said. As a sophomore, Scott made the switch from majoring in biology to communication without any previous experience in performance studies classes. Despite not
Check out Glad I Exist, premiering this week in the Communication Department Studio. Courtesy of Villanova Department of Communication
taking these courses during her freshman and sophomore years, Scott always had a passion for and involvement in theater at Villanova. It was as a junior that she first
began her journey in performance studies, where she thoroughly enjoyed her new courses. Dr. Evan Schares, one of Scott’s professors, is the primary advisor for the up-
coming show. “I especially loved the classes I took with Dr. Evan Schares and Dr. Heidi Rose,” Scott said. As a communication major, the show will play a primary role in Scott’s senior project. Preparation for the show has been extensive but according to Scott, extremely culturally enriching as a connection between academic and personal passions. “I think it’s lovely that Villanova offers this avenue for a senior project that allows students to combine both their artistic and academic pursuits,” Scott said. As a whole, the show aims to be both heartwarming and educational, as the audience will develop a better understanding of self and happiness. “I hope that audiences will both have fun and leave with something to consider,” Scott said. Performances of the show will be held on Feb. 19 and 21 at 6:30 p.m. in the Communication Department Studio located in Garey Hall’s room 029A, and admittance is free to all students.
14| The Villanovan
SPORTS
Wednesday, February 14, 2024
SPORTS
Wildcat Watch: Clayton and Weaver Leaving Legacies Amanda McKean Sports Columnist Despite the win on Sunday at Wells Fargo, it’s no secret that the 2023-24 Villanova men’s basketball season will not go down as one of its best. With a 13–11 record so far, the Wildcats will most likely close out their season without a trip to the NCAA Tournament for the second year in a row. Although opportunities to sing “V for Victory” have been decreasing at some basketball games, many other student-athletes deserve recognition as they carry the school’s sports reputation forward. One such athlete is graduate high jumper Roschell Clayton, who continues to cement her ‘Nova legacy. Clayton became Villanova’s absolute school record holder for the high jump at 1.88 meters this past weekend at the Eagle Elite Invitational in Boston. “I’m not even sure if I fully process what’s been going on,” Clayton said. “I haven’t really taken the time to sit down and say, ‘Oh my gosh, Roschell, have you realized that you’ve literally been jumping a new personal best at every meet that you’ve been to? Who does that?’” Although Clayton came to Villanova all the way from Montego Bay, Jamaica, her story is a familiar one to many track and field athletes. Clayton discovered her unique talent in track and field during high school. “When it comes to track and field, a lot of people typically start at around age twelve or thirteen,” Clayton said. “I started at around sixteen or seventeen. I used to play the sport netball back home. And then we got too old, they didn’t have a senior team and I was bored.” Clayton was mainly selftaught when she began training for the high jump. “When I found out that my high school had a track and field team, I initially joined to do the long jump. And then the day before my coach took us to our first track meet, he said, ‘Oh, by the way, I signed you up for high jump as well.’ And I was like, ‘Oh, I don’t know anything about this sport.’ So, I had to go home and watch YouTube videos all night and learn about high jump.” Now, as a graduate Wildcat, Clayton has embarked on a record-setting tour in 2024. Starting at the UPenn 10-Team Select, she initially tied Sanaä Barnes’ record of 1.84m from the NCAA Championships in 2019. Two weeks later, at the Penn State Invitational, she was ready to claim the record, clearing 1.85m and taking first place. To start the day in the Eagle Elite Invitational, she dominated, clearing 1.86m and then setting her sights on Barnes’ 1.87m record, which she set in the U.S. Olympic Team Trials. After missing on her first attempt, Clayton pushed even
Throughout his time on the team, Weaver, who earned the Villanova Athletics Student-Athlete of the Month honor, has claimed the school’s record for career scoring average (72.50), most wins (4), most birdies (244) and most par or better rounds (32). “I guess it’s just a result of all the hard work, “ Weaver said. “It was never the goal of mine to break all the records, but [it’s] a nice accolade to have. I think it shows all the hard work we’ve put in over the last four years or so.” In addition to Weaver’s success, the golf team has been on its own upward trend, with sophomore Ryan Pamer claiming the Big East Freshman of the Year last season. “Coach Aylward and Coach Wilkes are doing a great job,” Weaver said. “We got our two simulator bays a couple years ago, which really helped the team. And now we have two freshmen Graduate high jumper Roschell Clayton holds Villanova’s record at 1.88 meters. coming in, who are statistically Courtesy of Villanova Athletics ranked the highest recruiting class more on her second, clearing the “I knew I wanted to do Villanova has ever had coming in 1.88m bar and cementing the reengineering and golf,” Weaver next year as freshmen. It’s really cord for highest jump a current or said. “So, I needed a combination exciting.” former Wildcat has ever achieved. of both. My older brother, Tom, When he’s not making “I’m extremely happy played golf in college. I wanted to history at Villanova, Weaver likes because these past few months do a similar thing to him. So, I al- to “weave” through the amateur I’ve really taken the time to build ways wanted to play golf in college golf circuit in Missouri, and has up my mental health,” Clayton and then engineering, as well.” won the Missouri Amateur, St. said. “I’ve really been focusing on Despite beginning his Louis District Golf Association’s staying in the right mindset and career as a Wildcat during Covid, Griesedieck Championship, as well keeping it there, developing some the 21-year-old golfer from as the Metropolitan Amateur in real confidence. I really worked on Frontenac, Missouri quickly rose 2023, becoming the first golfer to believing in myself this semester to success as a sophomore, earnever do both. because I came to realize that your ing himself a spot on the All-Big Yet, despite the accolades, mindset can be your biggest setEast Second team and eventually Weaver is more focused on putting back when you’re trying to accom- on the All-Big East First Team his his engineering degree to use as he plish something.” junior year. prepares for his last competitions The season before setting “If you had told my high as a Wildcat and his graduation. this record, Clayton achieved a school self I’d be doing all this, I “I’ve thought about turning height of 1.81m at the NCAA probably wouldn’t believe you,” pro for a little bit, more so maybe Championships, where she placed Weaver said. “I maybe wasn’t the during my sophomore and junior 14th. With these numbers, she most confident or didn’t look too year,” Weaver said. “But now I’ve stands at the top of a group of high myself coming out of high set on getting a job, working in the only three Wildcats who have ever school. It’s been really cool to see real world and then just playing cleared the high jump bar at a all the hard work paying off and as many amateur tournaments height above 1.80m. I’ve just had the best time at Villa- as I can. That’s the current kind In addition to her status as nova and can’t wait to finish strong of path I’m on, but I couldn’t be a Wildcat, Clayton has also comhere in the next couple months.” happier.” peted on the national and international level at the Jamaican U20 Championships in 2019 and finished third at the JAAA CARIFTA Trials in March 2020. “I would love to represent Jamaica in the Olympics,” Clayton said. “I mean, that’s my country. That’s my roots. And that’s where I was born and raised. I have a lot to be grateful for coming from there. Olympic wise, I recently learned that the qualified marks are 1.99m, and that’s a stretch. It would be amazing, though. I would love to work towards that.” In the theme of leaving a mark on Villanova Athletics, senior golfer Peter Weaver has been redefining the men’s golf program for the past four years, setting records and cementing his place in the future Villanova Athletics Hall of Fame. Despite his new reputation as the best golfer in school history, Weaver’s choice to come to Villanova came down not only to his ability to play golf but also the Senior golfer Peter Weaver holds school records in career scoring average, most wins, and more. quality of an engineering degree. Courtesy of Villanova Athletics
Wednesday, February 14, 2024
SPORTS
The Villanovan | 15
Water Polo Records First Losses in 3–2 Weekend
tational in Lewisburg, PA over the weekend. Day one of the invitational concluded with two gritty games, After improving to 8-0 this both ending with identical scores past weekend, the Wildcat water of 10-9, with Villanova coming polo team looked to build onto out on top. its historic start as it faced a fiveIn game one, against St. game slate this week and finished Francis (PA), junior Amelia Baca 3-2. led with three goals and assists, The Wildcats’ toughest while sophomore Sara Withers feat of the season faced them on made sure her impact was known Thursday, against No. 8 Princeton. as she recorded two goals, two The game was tightly contested in assists and three steals in the the first half as they approached impressive win.Villanova rolled the break down, 3-2. Princeton to a 7-1 halftime advantage and returned from the break with a big held on. Sophomore Gracin Kerry 10-2 surge that helped them take was rewarded with the win, as she the victory 18-7. recorded seven saves. The focus After taking their first loss shifted to Mount Saint Mary’s for on the year, the ‘Cats would soon game two. return to action at the Bison inviThe highly intense game Brandon Nesmith Staff Writer
The Wildcats finished the weekend 3–2 and now have a 11–2 overall record. Courtesy of Villanova Athletics
was close until the end, and goalie Abigail Shelby laid out in the dying seconds to prevent a game tying goal. The senior captain finished off the day with seven saves Feb. 7 – and was mobbed by teammates for her stifling effort. Emily McKenzie Wednesday, February 7 led the way in scoring with three Men’s Basketball @ Xavier goals, while the freshman duo 53-56 L of Tiffany Maguire and Laurent Thursday, February 8 Short combined for eight points in Softball @ Georgia Tech the win. “Winning these close games 2-3 L this past weekend taught us some Softball vs. #11 Alabama valuable lessons that will help us 0-3 L down the road in conference play,” Water Polo @ #8 Princeton head coach Michael Gordon said. 7-18 L These two wins helped Friday, February 9 the Wildcats reach 10 wins in the Men’s and Women’s Track vs. month of February for the first Fastrack National Invite time in program history. No Team Scoring Day two of the invitationMen’s and Women’s Track at Eagle al began with a tough 9-8 loss to Elite Invitational MAAC rival La Salle. Stella Byles No Team Scoring and Emmie Mallory each picked up three points while Tiffany Softball vs. Longwood Maguire led with two goals and 5-1 W two assists. Goalie Gracin Kerry Softball @ Georgia Tech recorded 10 saves. 5-2 W In their finale, the Wildcats Men’s Track at Windy City Invite responded well against Bucknell, No Team Scoring winning, 10-8. Anna Painter and Women’s Track @ Husky Classic McKenzie both recorded hat No Team Scoring tricks, while Byles had three asSaturday, February 10 sists. Shelby recorded nine saves in Softball vs. Longwood the bounce back victory. 5-6 L The ‘Cats look to finish off the month strong at the Princeton Men’s and Women’s Track at Eagle Invitational on Feb. 16–17, as they Elite Invitational face Bucknell once again and then No Team Scoring nationally-ranked Harvard the Men’s Lacrosse @ #15 Penn State following day. 10-18 L Water Polo vs. St. Francis 10-9 W Women’s Basketball @ Marquette 55-52 W Men’s Track at Windy City Invite No Team Scoring Water Polo vs. Mt. St. Mary’s 10-9 W Sunday, February 11 Women’s Tennis @ Temple 0-7 L Water Polo vs. La Salle 8-9 L Men’s Basketball vs. Seton Hall 80-54 W Women’s Lacrosse vs. #17 USC 11-12 L Water Polo @ Bucknell 10-8 W Men’s Track vs. Millrose Games No Team Scoring Monday, February 12
WEEKLY SCOREBOARD
Pappas Scores 100th Career Goal Genna Cottingham Staff Writer No. 17 USC defeated the Villanova women’s lacrosse team 12-11 at Villanova Stadium on Sunday. The previous meeting between the teams last March ended in a more convincing Trojan victory, 15-4. It was much closer this time around, and junior attacker Sydney Pappas scored her 100th career goal for ‘Nova during the competition. The celebration for Pappas did not stop there. Her favorite song and victory chant, ABBA’s “Dancing Queen,” rang through the stadium several times on Sunday. Pappas went on to score four more goals later in the game and now has 104 career goals at the start of her third season with the Wildcats. “Sydney [Pappas] is incredible,” head coach Jill Batcheller said. “She did it today and I am so proud of her for getting the hundredth goal so early in her career.” The game kicked off at noon with freshman Emma Verhoest losing the initial draw control against USC freshman Anna Regan. Both drawers would receive yellow cards at separate times during the game, sending Verhoest and Regan to the sidelines in two-minute periods in which the teams played with one less player.
Tuesday, February 13 WBB @ Georgetown 62-47 W Junior attacker Sydney Pappas scored her hundredth goal for the Wildcats on Sunday against USC. Courtesy of Villanova Athletics
Graduate attacker Cara Moreau scored the first goal of the day. Junior attacker Sami Carey assisted two goals and scored one of her own, achieving three points for the ‘Cats. Three of the six freshmen starters on the field scored their first career goals in their first collegiate game against USC. To start off the freshmen show, attacker Sophia Corretjer landed Nova’s fifth goal of the day. Next was redshirt freshman midfielder Elena Torres. Finally, in the fourth quarter, midfielder Rose Christie scored a goal assisted by senior attacker Kayla Gulmi. Christie also won two draw controls and picked
up a ground ball for the ‘Cats. “[The freshmen] bring so much speed to our game and a lot of opportunities,” Batcheller said. “They are incredible and fearless.” The game was tied, 4-4, at the half. Nearly four minutes into the third quarter, an examination of Verhoest’s illegal stick stopped the game. Verhoest had tape on the top of her stick, and a new NCAA rule prohibits such advantages. After Verhoest received a yellow card, the Trojans managed to score three goals against the ‘Cats in a mere two minutes. USC’s senior midfielder Claudia Shavitz scored four goals against ‘Nova on Sunday, coming
off a powerful 2023 season after being named the PAC 12 Midfielder of the Year. Pappas answered the USC raid by scoring four goals in the fourth quarter, three of which were unassisted. Pappas’ standout performance still wasn’t enough for the Wildcats to pull off a win for the season opener. “I am looking forward to this team rebounding and continuing to show our speed of play,” Batcheller said. “I am excited for another opportunity to play and rebound from this game.” Villanova will play Bucknell University at home on Saturday, Feb. 17 at 12 p.m.
SPORTS
16 | The Villanovan
Wednesday, February 14, 2024
Softball Opens Season, Going 2–3 at Buzz Classic
something we weren’t used to… She could go up and down, we struggled to see her,” head coach Bridget Orchard said. “I thought The Wildcats opened their we made some decent contact off season last weekend at the Buzz of her, but they obviously made all Classic in Atlanta, GA, going 2–3 the plays. For us, I think that game in the tournament. is going to make us better.” In the opening game Senior pitcher Caroline against Georgia Tech on ThursPellicano took the tough-luck loss, day, the Wildcats went down, 3-0, completing six strong innings of after allowing a run in each of the her own, surrendering five hits and second, third and fourth innings. three runs while striking out six. A Wildcat rally ensued On Friday, the Wildcats in the top of the seventh when were the home team in game three freshman Grace Reed led off with against Longwood. They responda pinch-hit home run. Senior cen- ed with their first win of the ter fielder Tess Cites flew out and weekend, claiming a 5–1 victory. sophomore Lilly St. Jean produced The scoring started for the a pinch-hit single before soph‘Cats in the bottom of the third, omore Maddie Burrows struck when graduate first baseman Vicout, and senior catcher Emily Orr toria Sebastian walked and then walked. came home to score when Cites Junior shortstop Ava Franz reached base on an error. cracked a double to left-center, They would tack on anscoring St. Jean, but Orr was cut other run in the fifth when judown at the plate to end the game nior right fielder Elaina Wagner with Georgia Tech winning, 3-2. launched a home run to center Sophomore pitcher Kat Gallant field and then another three runs took the loss in the opener, scatin the sixth on a run-scoring doutering six hits and three runs over ble from Wagner and a two-run four innings pitched. single from Sebastian. Villanova next took on AlJunior pitcher Kelsey White abama. The Wildcats’ offense was picked up the win for the Wildcats, stymied by Crimson Tide pitcher surrendering only one run over Kayla Beaver. She spun a seven-in- five strong innings, allowing four ning no-hitter and walked just one hits and striking out four batters. while striking out 14, as Alabama In game four, the Wildcats emerged with a 3-0 victory. took on Georgia Tech for a second “[Beaver] was throwing 70s time and secured a 5–2 win. and our hardest [pitcher] throws St. Jean started the scoring 64, so literally the speed was in the top of the first, crushing a Jon Hunn Staff Writer
two-run home run to left and scoring graduate DP Chloe Smih. Georgia Tech scratched two runs across in the bottom half of the inning to tie the game, but the Wildcats grabbed the lead back in the third on an RBI double by St. Jean. Villanova scored two more runs for insurance in the sixth when graduate catcher Ally Jones produced an RBI double, and graduate first baseman Sebastian scored on an error. Pellicano went the distance in the win, completing seven innings while allowing just six hits and two runs, neither of which were earned. She recorded one strikeout and did not walk a batter. The Wildcats closed the Classic on Saturday against Longwood, losing 6–5. Longwood opened the scoring in the second inning, plating a run on a single and a subsequent error on the same play that allowed a second run to score. Villanova evened the score in the bottom half of the inning when first baseman Sebastian and redshirt junior DP Brooklyn Ostrowski crushed back-to-back solo home runs. Later that inning, Villanova took the lead when Cites scored on a fielder’s choice and St. Jean continued her strong tournament with an RBI single. Longwood knotted the game back up in the third before taking the lead again in the 5th. The Wildcats subsequently tied
the game up in the sixth when Ostrowski launched her second solo home run of the game. Longwood then took the lead, ultimately for good, in the top of the seventh on a sacrifice fly. The Wildcats put the tying and go-ahead runs on base in the bottom of the seventh but ultimately did not score, and Longwood took the game. Pellicano took the loss, surrendering two hits and the go-ahead run in one inning of work. For the Classic, St. Jean was a standout performer, hitting .455 with a 1.318 OPS. “[St. Jean] was awesome,” Orchard said. “She was phenomenal. She just came out really hitting the ball well, I think she hit over .450 on the week, all the balls she was hitting were hard, even her outs. Defensively she was flawless as well as offensively. [She’s] in mid-season form already.” Villanova returns to action on Friday, Feb 16 at 11 a.m. as it kicks off the Weiler Orthodontics Invitational in Harrisonburg, VA. “It’s going to be freezing,” Orchard said. “I think we are going to see more quality opponents, which is what we want to see. George Mason won their conference last year, JMU went to the World Series and Lehigh is always at the top of their conference. [We will] get a chance to see all those teams and they have great pitching staffs that will get us better.”
Baseball Looks Forward to Promising 2024 Season James Haupt Staff Writer Villanova baseball is coming off a down year, posting a 14–37 record in 2023. The Wildcats’ .275 winning percentage was one of the lowest in school history. The ‘Cats finished 7–13 in the conference and in seventh place of eight teams. Despite the disappointing 2023 season, the Wildcats showed great potential and several players are poised to break out this season. Sophomore infielder Michael Whooley is coming off a terrific freshman year. Whooley collected 36 hits, 16 RBIs and one home run, with a .303 batting average. Also returning for the 2024 season are several key upperclassmen for the Villanova squad. Graduate infielder/outfielder Jack O’Reilly looks to continue his success after batting .303 last season with 59 hits, 25 RBIs and a team-high eight home runs. “Jack O’Reilly is ready to break out,” head coach Kevin Mulvey said. “He had a really good year, and is working hard this year. He looks great in practice.” Infielder Cameron Hassert will be returning for his senior season. Hasert had a .292 batting average and 1.025 OPS in 18 games. Hassert also hit six home runs and recorded 17 RBIs, proving to be one of Villanova’s top hitters in just a short span of
The Wildcats seek to improve last season’s disappointing 14–37 record in 2024. Courtesy of Villanova University
games.
On the pitching end, Devin Rivera will also be coming back for his senior season. Rivera remained Villanova’s top pitcher throughout last year. Rivera started in 14 games, recording a 5.84 ERA, 45 strikeouts and a 2-7 record in 74 innings pitched. Also returning is senior hurler Cade Udell, who finished the 2023 campaign with 39 strikeouts over 27 innings pitched and held opposing batters to a .165 average. “Our strike-throwing ability needs to improve from last year,” Mulvey said. “That was an emphasis this fall for our pitching staff. Throw more strikes and we will reap the benefits.”
Princeton and Rowan visited Villanova in its 2023 fall schedule. The Wildcats recorded a 4–1 win and a 7–7 tie in a double-header against Princeton on Sept. 30. Villanova’s pitching staff showed strong potential, throwing over 60-percent strikes. According to Mulvey, the Wildcats will focus on improving each individual player while also being able to compete within and outside the Big East. As eight rookies will make up Villanova’s freshman class in 2024, players will be competing for starting spots this season to have an impact on the field. “I’m very excited about this season,” Mulvey said. “We have a good group of guys that love the
game of baseball and love each other.” Villanova will travel to San Antonio, TX for its first game on Friday, Feb. 16 against University of the Incarnate Word. Facing the Cardinals for the first time since 2015, the Wildcats will look to sweep the series and start the season 3-0. The Wildcats will have a travel-filled regular season with away series opponents including Davidson, Pepperdine and East Tennessee State. St. Peter’s will visit Villanova on March 20 at in the only out-of-conference home game of the season. Big East play will begin on Thursday, March 28 with an away series against Georgetown.
Wednesday, February 14, 2024
SPORTS
The Villanovan | 17
Clayton Highlights Busy Track and Field Weekend
New York. Three personal bests were recorded at the meet. Trio of distance runners, senior Cole Walker, sixth-year HenVillanova men’s and womry Myers and redshirt freshman en’s track and field athletes disJack Tavaglione, raced in the 3000 persed across the country to take meters. part in a multitude of events this Walker finished sixth with past weekend. School and personal a time of 8:16.88. He was followed records were set across the map. by the duo of Myers and TavagliAt the Eagle Elite Invitaone. They each tallied personal tional in Boston, Massachusetts, bests. Myers crossed the finish senior Roschell Clayton set school line in 8:18.85 and Tavaglione in history. 8:22.23. Clayton became Villanova’s Sophomore Kinsey Pogue absolute school record holder in ran the 3000 meters. Pogue recordthe high jump with a mark of 1.88 ed a personal best time of 9:57.74 meters on Saturday. and finished sixth in the event. It Clayton had previously tied was the first time in her career that and broken the Wildcats indoor Pogue has broken 10 minutes in the record in her event. 3K. She made it over 1.86 On the West Coast, Wildmeters, her previous record, on her cats competed in the Husky Classic first attempt. Clayton then set her located in Seattle, Washington. sights at 1.88 meters, which no preJunior Sadie Sigfstead vious Villanova athlete has cleared. recorded one of the best perforAfter a miss on her first try mances of her career with a time at the new record height, Clayton of 15:44.11 in the 5000 meters. made it over on her second jump to Sigfstead recorded the take sole possession of the top spot sixth-fastest absolute time in school in the Villanova record book. history while climbing into second Clayton and freshman place on this year’s Big East perforMalaika Cunningham tallied a 1-2 mance list. finish in the high jump. Sigfstead lowered her Cunningham recorded a lifetime best in the 5000 meters by personal best jump of 1.77 meters. more than 30 seconds with a signaIt places her second in the Big East, ture race of the 2024 season. only behind Clayton. Her time of 15:44.11 is As for the rest of track the third-fastest indoor time in the and field performers, competition Villanova record book. began on Feb 9. at the Fastrack NaThe major portion of the tional Invitational in Staten Island, weekend was wrapped up at the Dylan Johnson Staff Writer
Windy City Invitational at the Dr. Conrad Worrill Track and Field Center in Chicago. Junior Sean Donoghue recorded a personal best time of 3:58.07 in the “The Magnificent Mile.” Donoghue lowered his lifetime personal best by nearly eighttenths of a second with Friday’s race. He now has the 10th best time in school history. Head coach Marcus O’Sullivan noted how fast runners need to be in today’s world. “Making indoor national championships is harder than outdoor,” O’Sullivan said. “This year, [running a] 3:54 [mile] will not even get you to [the national championship].” Sophomore Marco Langon ran the 3000 in 7:47.43. The same venue will host the Big East Championships later this month for the third straight year. O’Sullivan was proud of Langon’s accomplishment. “I am looking at a picture of Bobby Curtis on [my] wall,” O’Sullivan said. “The day he broke eight minutes was a huge deal. That was only about 10 to 15 years ago.” Langon’s time is the third-fastest in school history in the 3000 meters and puts him among this season’s national leaders in the event. Langon is chasing the program’s standing indoor 3000 meter record of 7:45.67 which teammate
Liam Murphy recorded in Boston exactly one year ago this weekend. “Langon was going after Murphy and he wanted [to beat his record],” O’Sullivan said. “Marco is very, very young and still has a lot of chances in front of him [to break Murphy’s record].” Murphy competed in the prestigious Wanamaker Mile at the Millrose Games on Sunday. Murphy ran a time of 3:53.96 in the race to notch the second-fastest indoor time in school history. He only trailed his own school record of 3:53.85. Murphy was one of two college athletes in the field. It is rare for a college athlete to race in a professional event. “The idea was created back in early January, but it was not announced,” O’Sullivan said. “He wanted to race in it, so I allowed him to race in it.” Murphy was at the back of the pack early on before moving up four spots in the final half-mile. He remains the only Villanova athlete to break 3:54 indoors and he has now run seven career sub-four-minute miles. Murphy came out of the weekend ranked ninth on this year’s national Division I descending order list, which will be used to determine NCAA Championships qualifiersin March. The top 16 declared athletes in each individual event will be selected for the national meet in Boston on March 8-9.
M Tennis Bests Rider, W Tennis Swept at Temple Aidan Shay Staff Writer The men’s and women’s tennis teams each played matches on the road over the weekend, with the men defeating Rider, and the women losing to Temple. On Saturday, the men’s team traveled to Lawenceville, NJ and defeated the Broncs, 4-3. The women’s team traveled to Temple on Sunday and recorded a 7–0 loss. The men’s match began with Rider taking the point from doubles play. Freshman Thomas Wakefield and senior Josh Robinson fell in a tiebreaker to Rider junior Dhruv Tangri and senior Jaime De Jaraiz. Freshman Will Monahan. Junior Lukas Choi also fell, 6–3. The third doubles match, played by sophomore Cooper Gordan and senior Eitan Khromchenko, notched a 7–5 win for the ‘Cats. In singles, Robinson opened up in the one spot and rebounded from his doubles loss, beating Tangri after losing the first set. Senior Ryan Nguyen fell in the two spot (6–3, 6–1), while Monahan continued his impressive play, defeating Rider sophomore Stravros Hadjivarnava in three sets. Choi lost in the fourth spot, and Wakefield evened the match, 3–3, with a tiebreaker win over Rider’s Jake Grimes. Khromchenko would seal the deal for the ‘Cats, securing the victory with a 6–3 win over Jamie De Jarizq. The Wildcats will travel to Newark, DE on Feb. 16 to continue
Men’s tennis defeated Rider, 4-3. Courtesy of Villanova Athletics
their season against Delaware. On Sunday, Temple swept the Villanova women’s team. Sophomores Emi Callahan and Maggie Gehrig competed in the first doubles match for the Wildcats and fell, 6–0, to Temple sophomore Maiko Uchijimia and graduate Samantha Nanere. Junior Valieriia Kornieva and graduate Amanda Rivera-Gonzalez fell, 6–0, in the second doubles spot. Senior Bella Stephan and freshman Jenna Stevens teamed up for the first time in the spring season, but ended up falling, 6–2. In singles, graduate Ami Grace Dougah opened up in the one spot and fell in two sets with a tiebreaker in the second (6-3, 7-6). Kornieva lost in two sets, along with Callahan and freshman Lauren Monti. Stevens lost a close match in the third set after giving away a tiebreaker in the second set. Freshman Maddie Hills ended the lineup for the Wildcats, winning in the third set with a score of (6-3, 0-6, 13–11). “The score of the match doesn’t reflect how I feel about our team,” head coach Steve Reiniger said. “Most of our players played well. Temple is a good team, and everyone having to move up a couple of spots [because of injuries] was challenging. We’ve found a promising new doubles combination of senior Bella Stephans and freshman Jenna Stevens.” The women’s tennis team looks to rebound against Howard next on Feb. 17 in Washington, D.C.
18 | The Villanovan
Wednesday, February 14, 2024
SPORTS
WBB Set to Host Butler at Finneran Pavilion
comeback bid from the Bulldogs for the win. Butler’s senior guard and leading scorer Caroline Strande Villanova climbed to third recorded 12 points against Vilplace in the Big East after a slim, lanova in the previous meeting. 55–52 victory over Marquette on Strande averages 14.8 points per Saturday, Feb. 10. game and soars above the rest of The crucial win brought the Bulldogs with an average of the team’s postseason ambitions 7.3 rebounds per game. even closer and improved the Junior forward Sydney Wildcats’ record to 15–8 overall Jaynes, who scored 11 against and 8–4 in Big East play. Just six Villanova in their last matchup, is games remain in the regular seaalso a key member of the Butler son schedule. squad. Jaynes averages eight points After another road matchper game and leads the Bulldogs up against Georgetown on Tuesin blocks, averaging 13 per game. day, Feb. 13, the Wildcats will Butler’s other Big East vicreturn to the Finn on Saturday, tory was a 90-57 route of Xavier Feb. 17 to host Butler. Tip-off is set on Jan. 24. for 4 p.m. A reliable scoring commitThe Bulldogs will come tee has helped the Wildcats pull into the contest after visiting out recent wins against tough Big Providence on Wednesday, Feb. East opponents, including Seton 14. Standing tenth in the Big East, Hall on Feb. 3 and Marquette on Butler has a 10–13 overall record Feb. 10. and is just 2–10 in the conference. Villanova’s offense continButler marked its second ues to center around junior guard conference win in its last game Lucy Olsen, who is averaging 23 on Friday, Feb. 9, overcoming St. points per game. John’s, 64–59. Olsen routinely contributes While Butler’s performance double-figures in scoring and is a in the Big East has been generally crucial playmaker for the ‘Cats. underwhelming, Villanova will Following last weekend’s defeat of still need to bring forward anothMarquette, Olsen made an aper show of offensive firepower to pearance on the Big East Weekly notch a win on Saturday. Honor Roll for the eighth time this Villanova last visited the season. Hinkle Fieldhouse on Jan. 13, deFreshman guard Maddie feating Butler, 65-54. After buildWebber is also a starter to watch ing a significant lead in the first against Butler. Webber led the half, the Wildcats denied a late Wildcats with a season-high 18 Katie Lewis Co-Sports Editor
points in their last meeting with the Bulldogs. Increasing that number to 20 against Providence on Jan. 24, Webber has become an impactful member of the Villanova roster. The last-minute win over Marquette demonstrated Villanova’s ability to defend and deliver in the kinds of high-pressure situations that they will increasingly face in this pivotal part of the
season.
Villanova has defeated Butler in the teams’ last seven matchups. The last time the Bulldogs came out on top was a two-point win on Feb. 9, 2020. Villanova owns the all-time series record of 65–54. Posting another win against the Bulldogs is an important step for the Wildcats to continue their progress in the Big East standings.
Junior guard Lucy Olsen scored 33 points in Villanova’s win over Georgetown on Tuesday. Ryan Sarbello/Villanovan Photography
MBB Traveling to Georgetown, Hosting Butler Owen Hewitt Co-Sports Editor With seven games remaining in the regular season, Villanova sits at 13-11 overall and 6-7 in the Big East. The Wildcats will need to string together a few victories in a row to sniff the NCAA Tournament field. That stretch could come during the regular season or during the Big East tournament. Either way, the ‘Cats will need to win successive games, something they haven’t done since a four-game win streak in December. The ‘Cats will get two good opportunities to start building momentum toward March. They visit ailing Georgetown (8-11 overall, 1-11 Big East) on Friday, Feb. 16 at 7 p.m. and host Butler (16-8, 7-6) at the Finneran Pavilion on Tuesday, Feb. 20 at 6:30 p.m. The Hoyas are having a dreadful year under new head coach Ed Cooley, who was hired away from Providence last offseason. The Hoyas returned 18% of their scoring from the 2022-23 campaign. The Hoyas’ only conference win thus far came against DePaul. The Blue Demons have a NET ranking of 315 out of 362 teams. The Hoyas are 0-3 in the month of February, including the largest home loss suffered in the school’s Big East era, a 91-57 thrashing at the hands of then-No. 9 Marquette.
Sophomore guard Jayden Epps leads the Hoyas in scoring, averaging 17.6 and has 4.4 assists per game. The Hoyas have two other players averaging double figures. Junior guard Dontrez Styles averages 13.5 and 5.9 rebounds, while senior forward Supreme Cook averages 11.3 and 8.0 rebounds. A loss against the Hoyas would be disastrous for the Wildcats’ postseason hopes. By NET ranking, it would be the second-worst loss for the ‘Cats this season, only trailing the loss at Penn. It’s a game the ‘Cats will need to have if they want to keep
Villanova is 2-1 in the month of February. Graydon Paul/Villanovan Photography
their NCAA tournament hopes alive. Villanova has yet to play Georgetown this season. The Hoyas will visit Villanova on Tuesday, Feb. 27. Butler will come to the Main Line looking for its first regular season sweep of the Wildcats since the 2016-17 season. The Bulldogs pulled out a riveting 8881 double-overtime victory over the ‘Cats at Hinkle Fieldhouse in January. Now, the Bulldogs will look to push themselves out of the bubble and into the NCAA tournament field. Butler is having a markedly
improved 2023-24 season, as it has already bested its 2022-23 win total of 14 with a 16-8 record. The Bulldogs are currently projected as one of the “last four byes” in the NCAA tournament by ESPN bracketologist Joe Lunardi. The game against Villanova presents an opportunity for the Bulldogs to pick up a fifth win in quadrant one, since they will be on the road against a top-75 NET team. The Bulldogs’ fitness will be tested, as they will play three quadrant one games in the span of seven days. They hosted No. 4 Marquette on Tuesday, Feb. 13 and will play Creighton at Hinkle Fieldhouse on Saturday, Feb. 17. In the game at Hinkle, the ‘Cats were gashed by senior guard DJ Davis, who scored all 28 of his points in the second half and overtime periods. Senior forward Jahmyl Telfort had 22 points and 11 rebounds in the game. Statistically, the Bulldogs are led by junior guard Pierre Brooks, who averages 15.8 per game. Brooks had 13 in the season’s earlier meeting. Villanova will need to defend well for the entire game in order to beat Butler. After these two games, Villanova will travel to Storrs, Connecticut to face No. 1 UConn, in what is its most challenging and most important matchup remaining in the regular season. The game at Georgetown can be viewed on CBS Sports Network, while the game against Butler will be televised on Fox Sports 1.
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