The Villanovan | Volume 113, Issue 8: Wednesday, November 3, 2021

WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 3, 2021 www.villanovan.com @thevillanovan VOLUME 113 | ISSUE 8

ASK THE VILLANOVAN

STUDENT-RUN SINCE 1916

Hoops Mania Returns to Kickoff 2021-2022 Basketball Season

“I’m in love with my best friend. What do I do?”

Bottle it up, keep this secret hidden and always wonder what would’ve happened if you said something to them.

Just kidding! If you think there’s a shot, we say go for it. If you’re head over heels for them, never putting yourself out there and telling them how you feel will always leave you wondering. That being said, if it’s a passing thing, and you don’t want to risk losing a friendship, just wait and let the feelings pass.

“How do you deal with fake friends?”

Their negativity towards you stems from their own insecurities and unhappiness. It’s not a reflection of who you are, so there’s nothing wrong with taking distance from someone who isn’t a source of happiness.

Don’t waste your time placating fake people, and instead, find those who genuinely love you and spark your joy. You deserve friends who appreciate how special you are. If someone doesn’t want to be a friend of yours, it’s their loss.

“What is the best way to handle being overwhelmed at school?”

Personally, we’re all for a good cry. Nothing fixes my mood like a quick power cry in the office.

But actually, do your best to find some time each day to take a designated break for a little ~self care~.

Go on a walk around campus or watch an hour of your favorite show or sports team.

Reach out to your professors too. They are happy to help and want to see you succeed! Your friends can also be an incredible support Continued on p. 2

Fans threw streamers down onto the court after Brandon Slater made the first basket of the season.

Courtesy of Olivia Pasquale

Cate McCusker Co-Editor-in-Chief

Finally, a normal Villanova basketball season is back.

This past Friday evening, Villanova Athletics held Hoops Mania in the Finneran Pavilion, celebrating the men’s and women’s basketball teams and getting students excited for the upcoming season with cheers, dances and a performance by the famous rapper Offset.

The Finn was packed, as students braved the rain and flooded into

the Pavilion as soon as the doors opened at 6:00 p.m.

Before the official opening of the event, there was a shot competition, dance competition and a passionate pump-up speech from the captains of the football team.

Denise Dillon, head coach of the women’s basketball team, kicked off the event a few minutes after 7:00 p.m. Dillon hyped up the crowd and started a few chants before introducing her coaching staff.

“We have the greatest fans in the Big East,”

Dillon said to the crowd.

“No, not just the Big East, but the entire nation.”

Each member of the team was announced as she walked onto the court to meet her teammates in the middle. The team’s star player, Maddy Siegrist, was then celebrated for scoring over 1,000 career points.

Following this, the face of Villanova Basketball, Mr. Jay Wright, ran onto the court.

GQ Jay continued to get the crowd excited, leading the Finn in a few cheers and “Swag Surfin’” practice, a dance to the

popular song by F.L.Y. that students usually dance to at games, before introducing his coaching staff.

“I’m very impressed with your swag,” Wright said. He echoed the sentiments of Dillon, “We have the best fans in the country.”

Wright then expressed to the students the important role they played in the success of the basketball team. He asked the students to continue to cheer and get excited at games throughout the season.

Continued on p. 2

Women’s Soccer Coach McLain Resigns Colin Beazley

Co-Sports Editor

In a statement released on Friday, Villanova Vice President and Director of Athletics Mark Jackson announced that Head Women’s Soccer Coach Chris McLain has resigned.

“After a lot of analysis, examination, and discussion, including conversations with Chris, we mutually agreed that it was time for a change of direction in the leadership of our women’s soccer program,” Jackson said in the statement. “We have tremendous young women in our program, and we will not shy away from the high expec-

tations that we have for all of our athletic programs. We wish Chris and his family nothing but the best moving forward.”

McLain led the Wildcats for five seasons, after two seasons as Associate Head Coach and Recruiting Coordinator at Ohio State. He compiled a record of 35-46-5 during his time leading the Wildcats and led the program in 2019 to its first winning season since 2009.

However, the past two seasons have been a step back.

In the spring 2021 season, the Wildcats went 3-10-2, winning just two games in conference play. This season, Villanova had one of the best starts in

program history, winning six of the first seven games. However, the Wildcats won just once after Sept. 13. This was their only win over their last 11 games.

McLain’s last game coaching the team was Oct. 17 against UConn, where his team lost 1-0 in double overtime. He was not on the sidelines for the game on Oct. 24 against Butler or the team’s finale at St John’s on Thursday, as Associate Head Coach Daniel Clitnovici took over the head coaching duties.

Clitnovici will serve as the program’s interim head coach while the search for a permanent head coach is conducted.

“Villanova will always hold a special place in

my heart,” McLain said in a statement to Villanova Athletics.

“Having the opportunity to lead such a prestigious program will always be the highlight of my coaching career. I am proud that we advanced to the Final Four of the BIG EAST Championship in our third season, something that had not been done in over a decade at Villanova.

Now, after 22 years of coaching, I believe it’s time for me to take a break and focus on my three children and the rock of my life, my wife.”

The Wildcats finished the season with a record of 7-11 and tied for last in the Big East with a 1-9 record.

Continued Online

Doctoral Student Council Hosts Rally for Healthacare p. 3

Community First Hosts Tent or Treat for Students p. 4

Hoops Mania and the Deterioration of the Mask Mandate p. 5

Opinion: It’s Time to Stop Surveillance Testing p. 6

University Awards 50th and 51st Mendel Medals p. 7

Lin Manuel’s Hamilton Returns to Phildelphia p. 8

Humanities Department’s Faith and Reason Lecture p. 11

Cross Country Competes in Big East Championships p. 12

Graceffo Starring in Minor Leagues p. 14

Athlete of the Week: Justin Covington p. 15

2 | The Villanovan

News Opinion Culture Sports

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VOL. 113 | ISS. 8 www.villanovan.com @thevillanovan

CATE McCUSKER Editor-in-Chief JACK ROBERGE Editor-in-Chief MADISON BURKE Associate Editor-in-Chief ARIANA MEGERIAN Digital Editor SARAH SWEENEY News Editor SARAH WISNIEWSKI News Editor TINA ARON Opinion Editor VIVI MELKONIAN Opinion Editor A.J. FEZZA Culture Editor ELENA ROUSE Culture Editor CHLOE MILLER Culture Editor COLIN BEAZLEY Sports Editor BILLY VINCI Sports Editor MOLLY BAKER Copy Desk Chief

MICHAEL BRADLEY Advisor DEENA SMITH Advisor CONTACT villanovan.eic@gmail.com

PUBLIC SAFETY BLOTTER Paraphenalia/Possession Marijuana October 28 Stanford Hall A resident student was found in possession of marijuana.

False Reports to Law Enforcement October 29 St. Clare Hall A male resident student made an intentionally false I-report using the Nova Safe App.

Paraphenalia/Possession Marijuana October 31 West Campus Soccer Stadium A police officer found three students in possession of marijuana and paraphernalia on Higgins Soccer Field

Disorderly Conduct/Dating Violence/ Defiant Trespasser/Harassment-Strike, Kick, Shove/Public Drunkenness November 1 Friar Hall A non affiliated male assaulted his girlTheft by Unlawful Taking or Disposition friend who is a resident student while the October 22 two were in her campus residence. The Davis Center male, who was intoxicated and belligerent, A resident student’s hooded sweatshirt refused to leave campus when ordered to was taken from the Davis Center 3rd floor do so by police. gym. The amount of the loss was $50.00.

A staff member was later identified as the responsibly party and the missing item was recovered and returned to the owner.

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

COVID-19 TRACKER Confirmed Cumulative Cases as of 8:00 P.M. Tuesday, November 2

240

14 18.66K

133

73

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

Residential Students

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

NEWS

Non-Residential Students

Continued from p.1

“We play three games at the Wells Fargo Center on Saturdays this season,” Wright said.

“Do you think you guys could get up and party a little in the parking lot for us?”

Wright was met with roars of excitement from the crowd, as the students readily agreed to his request after missing a whole season of Wells Fargo parking lot pregames last year.

“Just making sure we didn’t forget about that,” Wright said, pleased with the crowd’s reply.

“One of our favorite sights is when we pull up to Wells Fargo at 8:30 in the morning and see you guys already out there partying in the parking lot. It gets us fired up.”

Each member of the men’s basketball team was then announced to cheers from the crowd, as they ran onto the court to collect their 2021 Big East championship rings from last season.

The University was unable to celebrate the achievements of the team last year due to the pandemic, so after the team gathered at center court, the 2021 addition to the Sweet Sixteen banner and both the 2020 and 2021 Big East Championship banners were unveiled.

Following a performance by the University’s dance team, the men’s and women’s basketball teams faced off in an intense three-round dance-off. Both teams danced to some crowd-favorites.

The women’s team killed a dance to “Gucci Flip Flops” by Bhad Bhabie featuring Lil Yachty, and

Total Number of Tests (from 8/17)

34

Employees

the men’s team blew the crowd away as they ripped off their hoodies while dancing to “Way 2 Sexy”

by Drake with Future and Young Thug.

During the three-point competition, cheerleaders and members of the dance team ran through the crowd handing out blue and white streamers to students. Students then celebrated the Philadelphia tradition of throwing streamers at the first basket of the season when Brandon Slater completed an alley-oop dunk from Collin Gillespie a few seconds after the tip-off of the Blue and White scrimmage.

Streaks of white and blue rained down upon the team from all sides

ASK THE VILLANOVAN Continued from p. 1

system, and sometimes talking it out and venting for a minute can help things seem less overwhelming.

When things get tough, remember that grades don’t define you. Put your mental health first, always.

“I’ve been talking to this guy for a while but we aren’t official...he was my date to a function and we have a cute picture but I’m afraid it’s too soon to post or that he’ll be turned off. What should I do??”

Post multiple pictures and make the picture with the soon to be love of your life the second or third one in. That offers them the opportunity to make a cute comment without it making your relationship fully Instagram Official.

“How do I tell my roommate to stop leaving her half eaten meals on her desk without telling her to stop leaving her meals on her

You might just have to bite the bullet on this one. It’s a tough conversation to have, but with any roommate situation, ripping off the bandaid is almost always the easiest longterm solution. If you think they really wouldn’t take it well though, you can always send a text to your roommates group chat if you live in an apartment, that way it isn’t targeted at them directly. If you’re stuck with them in a dorm, you can try throwing it out yourself once or twice to see if they get the message.

“Do snap streaks matter?”

Grow up and ask for their number. You’re an adult.

Maintaining a snap streak is only important if you’re in high school. Even then, is it really that important?

of the Pavilion. Players and staff members were quick to start cleaning up the piles of streamers so the team could continue play.

After the black team won the scrimmage, it was time for the dunk contest. Every player received high marks from the judges, which included former members of the men’s team and current women’s team players. Brandon Slater was victorious, coming off a high of scoring the first basket, and won the contest with an impressive dunk over a staff member.

Finally, it was time for the main event of the evening, the much anticipated Hoops Mania performance by the special guest

Offset was the surprise performer for Hoops Mania.

Courtesy of Olivia Pasquale

performer. Students quickly poured onto court, trampling over each other. Many students tripped over a small ledge on the edge of the court, and their unfortunate mis-steps were shown on @barstoolnova on instagram.

“Be careful!” Wright said, imploring the crowd to stay calm as students rushed past him to get close to the stage. “Take your time, take your time.”

The men’s team gathered on stage with Wright to announce the performer. A rumor circulating campus that the performer was the famous rap artist Offset turned out to be true, so this announcement was met with cheers from the crowd.

“Villanova goes crazy,” Offset said as he kicked off his performance with the hit song “Hannah Montana,” by Migos, a popular rap trio consisting of Offset and two other artists, Quavo and Takeoff.

Offset performed several of his hit songs, including “Ric Flair Drip,” “Clout” and “Bad and Boujee.” The rapper danced with both the team and the University’s mascot, yelling at Will D. Cat to “get your a** up here” and join him on stage.

Offset concluded his performance by leading the crowd in “the loudest ‘Offset’ they’ve ever heard,” a famous ad-lib that he adds to many of his songs. Students quickly filed out of the stadium and into the chilly October air to continue the evening with their Halloweekend plans.

It was indeed a great night for Villanova.

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

NEWS

The Villanovan | 3

Doctoral Student Council Hosts Rally for Healthcare being that taking on extra work means less time is devoted to your Kathryn Fair studies which increases your time Staff Writer to completion.”

Students may also have

Should Villanova and other debt, financial obligations to famuniversities subsidize healthcare ily or dependents which disallow coverage for graduate students them from spending their salary and assistants? on health insurance.

On Oct. 29, graduate stu Wang further explained dents, faculty, staff and members that a recent spike in the cost of of the community gathered at the housing and the high cost of living Oreo for a rally to raise awareness in the area surrounding Villanova about their initiative for Villacreates a tight budget and makes nova-sponsored healthcare. Orappropriate healthcare nearly imganized by the Doctoral Student possible to afford.

Council, the rally began at 3:30

“Students cannot afford p.m. with a march around campus to be adequately insured,” she and concluded with speeches from said. “The healthcare that we can Fr. Art Purcaro, Andre Prince and afford is not adequate, and adeseveral graduate students reading quate healthcare is not affordable their own or anonymously submit- … students have experienced ted testimonials. immense difficulties finishing

The Doctoral Student their programs, have left their Council has been advocating programs, opted out of teaching for healthcare support from the for better paying jobs, taken on University for students “financial- massive medical debt or delayed, ly dependent on the university,” even forgone, medical treatment specifically graduate students altogether with life threatening and adjuncts. They’ve increased consequences.” their efforts since the start of the

Wang reported that docCOVID-19 pandemic, as their ex- toral students have been surveying periences have served as a frightother students about their health ening reminder of the danger of and insurance situations since inadequate healthcare coverage as 2016. In 2020, 38% of students the students work in labs or teach responded that they were not adein classrooms. quately insured, and the percent Jen Wang, Philosophy age of entirely uninsured students Co-Chair and event coordinator, rose from 7% in 2019 to 11% in provided valuable insight regard2020. ing this issue through a recent

“Students have delayed or Anti-Poverty Symposium. forgone treatment and medication

“Funded doctoral students for severe COVID-19, bone fracmake about $27k before taxes over tures, a miscarriage, mental health the course of nine months,” Wang care, post-operation pain, chronic said. “Students adjuncting and medical conditions, regular checkmasters students make significant- ups and more,” Wang said. “Some ly less than that amount. Most as- students who had no choice but to sistantships do not allow students seek emergency medical attention to take on outside work, the logic (e.g. for a life threatening allergic

reaction; a pulmonary embolism) have gone into debt upwards of $10-15k.”

The University has the authority to make the decision whether to subsidize student health insurance. Villanova falls short compared to other Catholic universities, such as Notre Dame, Georgetown, Fordham, Boston College and Loyola Chicago.

These schools all provide doctoral students with low-cost or free high-quality healthcare.

The University has responded with a current strategic plan aiming to “develop a University-wide initiative to enhance the graduate student experience.”

After the petition last semester, doctoral students received an additional $500 in healthcare subsidies (for a total of $1500) and a new subsidy was created for master’s students ($500 on a need-

based application).

University President Rev Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A., Ph.D., also responded following a petition last semester, stating, “And while I know some of you may be disappointed that we cannot immediately offer a full healthcare subsidy, please know that we continue to diligently and thoughtfully explore how we can continue to increase healthcare support for our graduate assistants in the coming years.”

In a statement from the Anti-Poverty Symposium, Wang said, “The sad truth is that graduate students take on significant risks by coming to Villanova, which raises important questions about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.”

Following the rally on Oct. 29, the Doctoral Student Council will continue its advocacy for graduate students and adjuncts.

Students at the protest held signs to support the cause.

Courtesy of Deena Smith

Adela Dwyer-Saint Thomas of Villanova Peace Award Nicole Celis Staff Writer

On Thursday, Oct. 28, the Adela Dwyer-Saint Thomas of Villanova Peace Award Ceremony took place.

This year’s recipient was the Poor People’s Campaign and was accepted by co-chairs Rev. William Barber and Rev. Liz Theoharis. Past recipients of the award include Habitat for Humanity, Congressman John Lewis and Archbishop Desmond Tutu.

This award recognizes outstanding contributions to justice and peace in communities, and the award committee consists of the Center for Peace and Justice Education staff. The award recipients were introduced by Rev. Naomi Washington-Leapheart, who outlined the organization and the recipients to the audience.

The original Poor People’s Campaign was founded by Martin Luther King Jr., who organized a 1968 March on Washington for economic justice for poor people.

This organization is a “national call for moral revival,” and seeks to mobilize the poor to be the voices of the campaign.

It does this through ral-

lies and contact with politicians to promote a moral agenda that strengthens and empowers poor people.

Rev. Washington-Leapheart introduced the recipients as well.

Rev. Theoharis is the director of the Kairos Center for Religions, Rights and Social Justice and is an ordained minister. She is the author of “Always with Us: What Jesus Really Said about the Poor,” and was deemed one of 15 faith leaders to watch by the Center for American Progress. Rev. Barber is the author of four books, has given hundreds of keynote addresses and has been regularly featured on major news outlets including MSNBC, CNN and the New York Times. He is the former President of the North Carolina NAACP. Together, they call for each person to take a stance together to form a peace economy, instead of a war economy.

Father Kevin DePrinzio presented the award to the Poor People’s Campaign, stating how clear it was why the award committee discerned the recipient, and he cited how critical it is to amplify the cries from the most vulnerable.

Rev. Theoharis accepted the award “on behalf of hundreds

of thousands of poor leaders that have come together across the country.”

She highlighted the moral agenda of the Poor People’s Campaign to recognize five interlocking injustices: systemic racism, systemic poverty, the war economy and militarism, ecological devastation and the denial of healthcare and the false moral narrative of Christian nationalism.

Through the Poor People’s Campaign, Rev. Theoharis said, the poor can come together on a path of a genuine era of human rights.

This is critical because for so long the poor have been disorganized, so there is no viable way for them to have a voice.

Their voice is so essential, because 43.5% of Americans are considered poor or low income, according to Rev. Theoharis, and the institutions behind this need to be addressed.

During her acceptance of the award, Rev. Theoharis also addressed those that believe the campaign is far too ambitious.

To this, Rev. Theoharis said that the benefits of their agenda far outweigh the costs.

Their agenda follows the belief that when you lift from the bot-

tom, everyone rises.

As Rev. Barber said, there is a true contradiction to not letting the poor be at the center of the movement. He said that it is quite problematic to have faith leaders praying over political leaders who are preying on the poor and marginalized.

The Poor People’s Campaign allows the poor to gain autonomy from political leaders constantly keeping them from success and survival. They also call for a revival of people interested in the movement, as they start to look towards their next series of rallies.

In previous years, they flooded state capitals for six weeks to call for action and show that poverty exists among many.

Rev. William Barber and Rev. Liz Theoharis accepted the award this year.

Courtesy of Politico

4 | The Villanovan

NEWS

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

Turning Points in History Series: Global Histories of White Supremacy Caitlyn Foley Staff Writer

On Wednesday evening, the Global Histories of White Supremacy was made up of a panel of historians who discussed their responses to thought-provoking questions asked by discussion moderator Vincent Loyd.

These conversations are important and necessary, specifically in today’s climate of increasing violence and tensions between people during pandemic time.

During the panel, turning points in history were brought to the forefront of conversation, being defined by the significant change that they evoked. In these past 18 months, there have been many moments of significant change, which presses the question: Are we finally at a point of change when it comes to white supremacy?

Kathleen Belew, Duncan Belle and Mae Ngai shared their perspectives on discontinuity, anti-Black language and moments of transformation. Belew explored how white power activists created a movement.

When viewing acts of violence such as those that occurred on Jan. 6 at the Capitol building, there is a unique sense of shock that many felt. She also discussed the Greensboro massacre, in which

five members of the Communist Work Party, who were participating in an anti-Ku Klux Klan rally, were killed in broad daylight on Nov. 3, 1979.

What she found especially chilling was the response that these white men had, including one man saying: “We killed communists in Vietnam so why would we not kill communists in North Carolina.”

Another moment that transformed the way we talk about white supremacy in today’s world is the Oklahoma City Bombing.

Belew pointed out that this is an example of the forces at work when one opposes white supremacy.

The total number of people dead was 168, 19 of those being young children. Belew informed the audience that this was the biggest deliberate mass death that has occurred on American soil after Pearl Harbor and 9/11.

There is a lot of evidence pointing to these bombings being a white power movement, but this was never officially proven.

Ngai talked about her experience as an Asian American who has faced increasing racism in times of the pandemic due to the hateful and incorrect labeling of the coronavirus as a “Chinese virus.”

She considers herself a very privileged member of the

Asian-American community, so when she was attacked on the streets of NYC because she is an Asian woman, she was shocked.

When asked about the global reach of anti-Blackness language, Ngai emphasizes that it is not enough to think about racism in general. One must think about racisms and how racism builds on itself and adapts to remain potent. If we attempt to understand racisms, we can see how white supremacy operates.

Belle’s studies lie in the history of political thought and the role race plays in this. According to Belle, white supremacy is a global structure but has many different locational meanings.

The meaning behind white supremacy and racial violence has changed and adapted throughout time and different countries. He also stated that he is not surprised

that anti-blackness language appears everywhere and notes that this language attempts to create hierarchies of race.

This issue of anti-Blackness has existed for centuries, starting with Southern Europeans viewing themselves as superior to Northern and Western Europeans and escalating to the racial hierarchies that have become too prevalent today.

These historians believe that the global histories of white supremacy have come in many forms, and today everything is more extreme. Tensions and attacks against minorities are harsher and sharper in this age of a pandemic. This is not a good thing. We must learn to disagree and build solidarities without resorting to violence. We must strive to end the repetition of these histories of white supremacy.

The discussion featured a panel of speakers.

Courtesy of The Lepage Center

Community First Hosts Tent or Treat for Students Garrett Whitton Staff Writer

This past weekend, University students proved that dressing up in a costume and trick-or-treating can still be a great time no matter how old someone is.

On Saturday, Oct. 30, Community First hosted a Halloween event, known locally as Tentor-Treat. Students, faculty and children from surrounding communities came to collect and eat various candies from more than 45 tents set up by different clubs, Greek houses and University organizations.

Before the function started at 5 p.m., the different student groups were assigned a tent and told to decorate it in as spooky a fashion as they could, and none of the tents disappointed.

Once they were finished decorating, each group was reimbursed up to $100 for everything they used. At the end of the event, the most festive tent won a prize awarded by judges from the Office of Student Life.

In addition to the tents, there was also a zombie maze and an escape room to entertain those who had completed their quest for candy.

Margot Varrichio, a tutor in the Falvey Library Writing Center, expressed how excited she was for people to start coming to the tent she helped set up.

“I am at the Writing Cen-

ter table, and the whole point is to really bring a lot of fun to campus,” Varrichio said. “It is great to see all the neighborhood kids all dressed up. And, what makes our tent different is that we offer word searches and pens because we are the Writing Center. It’s on-brand.”

Other tents were also giving away trinkets and treats that conformed to their organization’s image and identity.

As the evening turned to an eerie Halloween night, the monsters, superheroes and animals began to arrive. Everyone began scavenging for all the candy they could get their hands and paws on, even University professors.

“I love seeing them outside of the classroom in a non-academic setting, all dressed up in their costumes,” said Matthew Sinnott, president of the Sigma Chi fraternity who had a tent of its own.

Among the faculty were students and children who came to get a head start on their trickor-treating. Donte Williams, a graduate from the class of 2009 and an employee in the University’s dining services, brought his young son who decided to dress up as Venom, a character from the Marvel Spiderman comics.

“This may be the main thing that he does, and we’ll basically stay in tomorrow and maybe watch movies all day and have, like, a chill day tomorrow,” Williams said regarding what he and his son will do on Halloween day. “But, if we do decide to do something, it will probably be

something small, but this is the big thing for him this year.”

Williams and his son were just two trick-or-treaters among the 200 plus that attended. Other children and students filtered through during the event dressed up as their favorite animals, princesses, movie characters and more.

Tent-or-treat started during Halloween time on campus last year because of the pandemic.

Its purpose was to make sure students could still safely celebrate the holiday in an outdoor setting. It was a hit to everyone’s surprise and prompted Community First and the University to bring it back again this year.

They plan to make it an annual event, in addition to the other Halloween festivities held by the Campus Activities Team and other university organizations.

The Villanovan had a tent at the event.

Courtesy of Cate McCusker

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

OPINION

The Villanovan | 5

OPINION

Hoops Mania and the Deterioration of the Mask Mandate Andrew Ceonzo Staff Writer

Before the school year, students were told by the University that there would not be a campus-wide mask mandate. That policy was part of the rationale given for the vaccine requirement: the University was taking the significant step of mandating community members be vaccinated so that all other restrictions could be lifted. The policy included the reasonable caveat that it reserved the right to bring the mask mandate back if conditions changed. Within a month, the University did just that in response to what administrators viewed as a concerning level of positive cases. The student body was not informed of what the process behind that decision entailed or what would lead to the lifting of the mandate. There was a promise to re-evaluate the policy after Parents’ Weekend, but there still has not been any guidance on when the administration will reconsider the mandate or what criteria they would use to make such a decision.

Students seem increasingly skeptical of the mask policy, as compliance around campus has been noticeably lax in recent weeks, and case counts remain low. Additionally, as students have been packing into bars, parties and concerts without masks all semester, it is fair to question the value of being required to wear one on the treadmill.

endemicity, at what point does the administration believe we can take off the masks?

It was great to be back in the Finneran Pavilion for something besides a COVID-19 test this past weekend at Hoops Mania. The arena was standing room only with thousands of students and hundreds of off-campus guests cheering for the basketball teams.

During the concert, thousands of students packed onto the court like sardines. I would estimate mask wearing was below 10 percent.

It’s hard to think of a better natural experiment for testing the efficacy of the mask mandate than packing thousands of people into close quarters to scream and shout for three hours, all while essentially maskless. Add Halloween weekend parties into the mix, and the next two weeks of COVID-19 data will provide interesting inHoops Mania is held in the Finneran Pavilion and is a much anticipated event by students. sight into whether the mask manCourtesy of Olivia Pasquale date is necessary.

In scientific research, there

Research prior to the the incidence of severe disease has been a movement to pre-regpandemic suggested masks were and death in the population. The ister studies to combat publication effective at helping mitigate the data was clear: masking in unbias. By publicly announcing a spread of respiratory viruses, espe- vaccinated adult populations was research question and method cially when surgical masks or N-95 an effective way to mitigate the before conducting the study, scienmasks. It was that research that spread of coronavirus. However, tists can combat the tendency to helped inform the implementation there has been little research into withhold results that are inconcluof mask mandates early in the the wisdom of masking a populapandemic before the availability tion with a 95 percent vaccination sive or that they disfavor. In that spirit, I think Hoops Mania inadof vaccines. More recently, a ranrate, as Villanova has. Factoring domized control trial with around in that some of the remaining five vertently provided a natural experiment to test the continuation of 300,000 participants confirmed percent likely have infection-acthis earlier hypothesis, concluding quired immunity, the University is the mask mandate, and I will write that mask wearing in unvaccinatlikely approaching something close a follow-up to this piece in two or three weeks analyzing the data to ed adults, especially surgical and to herd immunity. see if we can glean anything of higher-grade masks, helped reduce As we transition from the import. the spread of coronavirus and pandemic stage of COVID-19 to

Opinion: It’s Time to Stop Surveillance Testing Steven Makino Staff Writer

Last year was a year like no other on campus, due to the looming threat of COVID-19.

Thankfully, campus life has mostly returned to normal, but there are still a few leftover policies from last year I believe have overstayed their welcome. In particular, the surveillance testing requirement for both vaccinated and unvaccinated students and continued mask mandate imposed by the school for most places on campus. While it made sense to implement these initiatives last year because there was still limited information on the virus, our understanding and means of protection against the virus have drastically changed over the past several months.

For starters, once the vaccines became available to the general public around the start of spring, panic about contracting the disease became increasingly unjustified given the proven effectiveness that the vaccines have been shown to have. While there was a significant case to be made that surveillance testing helped to reduce infections across campus by means of quarantine, there is virtually no benefit to keeping this policy after this semester. Even

last year, the effectiveness of these surveillance tests in preventing the spread varied at best due to the highly contagious nature of the virus. The vaccines offer immense protection against serious illness from the virus and a decent layer of protection from even getting the virus. With this information, coupled with the University’s vaccine mandate (with more than 95% of the community being fully vaccinated), COVID-testing for even the unvaccinated students seems less based on actual science and more of an initiative dictated by unwarranted fear.

In addition, continuing surveillance testing after this semester would serve to waste money on an initiative that is no longer needed. With a guaranteed 5% of the student body having to undergo twice-weekly testing, as well as the portion of vaccinated students who get randomly selected this week, the cost to supply testing resources is definitely nothing to mock. The money saved from discontinuing testing protocols can go towards other student-led organizations, as well as aiding in dining hall facilities and helping to reduce the staffing shortage dilemma.

Moving onto the mask mandates, this has become a topic that has met with much controversy both on campus and across the

country through political debates.

While there have been studies that show that masking helps in reducing risk of exposure to COVID-19, almost all of the peer-reviewed ones fail to account for factors such as wearing masks correctly at all times as well as usage of masks more than once. The CDC states that you should replace or wash a mask after each use which is not realistic for many people. In addition, there has been mixed information regarding the effectiveness of cloth masks with the director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy at the University of Minnesota and President Joe Biden’s former COVID-19 advisor Michael Osterholm saying that face cloth coverings are not very effective in stopping the spread. On campus, the majority of people I see wear cloth masks, as opposed to the N-95 masks that are extremely effective in preventing infection. Also, this campus is one of the safest places to be in the area without the needless masking requirement, due to the vaccine mandate.

According to the CDC, since October 20 of this year, 7,148 vaccinated people have died out of the 190 million who have received the shot, with about 85% of those people being over the age of 65. This alone should be a sign

that these extra precautions are no longer required and are merely theatrical.

The vaccines have proven to be the best way to fight against COVID-19, and the continued vaccine and mask mandates across the country only serve to delegitimize this inarguable fact. Efforts such as bi-weekly testing for the unvaccinated here on campus, which don’t make sense since you can still test positive between the multiple day gaps in between testing, are ultimately no longer needed anymore.

The risk on campus that COVID-19 brings is lower than most common diseases we have learned to live with over the years.

I respect those who wish to get tested or wear a mask if they choose to do so, but this should not be imposed at this point but instead should be optional. Living with risk is something that everybody accepts on a daily basis, as doing so has allowed for us to put incredible ideas into action rather than being in an enclosed bubble with no sign of progression.

Required masking and surveillance testing are no longer a necessary part of campus life, and getting rid of these aspects next semester is something that I believe is in line with the science and will truly lead to a return to normalcy.

6 | The Villanovan

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

OPINION

EDITORIAL BOARD

LETTERS TO THE EDITORS

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

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

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.

Secretary Yellen’s Ridiculous Tax Proposal

merely because the wealthiest individuals see more capital gains than the middle and lower classes.

The push for taxing unrealized capital gains has its roots in

In a recent interview with the same ideology that clamors for Jake Tapper on CNN’s “State of a wealth tax. This ideology was the Union,” Treasury Secretary on full display last summer when Janet Yellen was asked how the ProPublica published a piece that Biden Administration plans to invented a so-called “true tax rate” finance President Joe Biden’s proto rail against the fact that some of posed “Build Back Better” agenda the nation’s wealthiest individuals items. The following is part of her see an increase in total wealth that response: is larger than their income. In the

“I think what’s under piece, the authors overlooked the consideration is a proposal that fact that Warren Buffett paid $23.7 Senator [Ron] Wyden and the million in federal income taxes on Senate Finance Committee have his reported $125 million income been looking at that would impose over the period of 2014-2018. In a tax on unrealized capital gains other words, Buffett paid just shy on liquid assets held by extremely of one-fifth of his income to the wealthy individuals, billionaires. I wouldn’t call that a ‘wealth tax’ but federal government over a four year period. However, this reality it would help get at capital gains, was cast aside in favor of the fact which are an extraordinarily large that Buffett’s wealth increased part of the incomes of the wealthby $24.3 billion over that span, iest individuals and right now making his “true tax rate” (again, escape taxation until they’re realized...so it’s not a ‘wealth tax’ but a a made up statistic) only 0.1%. It would appear that both the authors tax on unrealized capital gains of exceptionally wealthy individuals.” of the ProPublica piece and Secretary Yellen need to re-enroll in

This is a pile of hot garan introductory level equities class. bage. Yellen is not an ignorant person, and she should know better Or better yet, they just need to be than to say something so ridiculous. a human being who pays taxes in First of all, capital gains do not “es- America for more than five mincape taxation until they’re realized” utes.

If the shares Buffett owns any more than appreciation of one’s real estate “escapes taxation” decrease in value, he does not lose until the property is sold. If you are any money unless he sells them. not realizing the gains — if you are By the same token, if they double in value, he does not make any not actually receiving an increase in money — then you are not taxed money unless he sells them. For ProPublica to suggest that Buffett is on it. This is a fundamental tenet avoiding taxation because he only of tax law and investment at all pays taxes on his income and not levels and for all income groups. on the appreciation of all his assets The principle is not rendered void Brendan Donoghue Staff Writer

Janet Yellen is the first woman to lead the US Treasury Department.

Courtesy of CNN

is the height of economic illiteracy.

Who else has a “true tax rate” less than their income tax rate? Almost everyone who owns real estate.

According to Housing Tides, the real estate appreciation rate in the late spring of 2021 was roughly 2% month over month. Should the middle class family paying a mortgage on a 1,500 square foot house be forced to pay annual taxes on the appreciation of their real estate value? Never mind the fact that they have not sold their house or actually made any money from the appreciation. According to Secretary Yellen, their property is “escaping taxation,” and we cannot have that. We need to pay for Biden’s agenda. How dare you allow reality to discourage such a bold and ambitious idea?

Suggesting that a bad

idea would apply only to the ultra-wealthy might make it easier to garner support for, but it does not make the idea a good one. Similarly, using linguistic tricks like the phrase “escaping taxation” over and over on live television does not make it true. If, instead of focusing on billionaires’ investments, people thought about what taxing unrealized gains would mean in their own lives, they would object to the idea wholeheartedly. To argue that the capital gains tax rate should be increased or that it should mirror the income tax rates is one thing, but to suggest that unrealized capital gains should be taxed is to argue in favor of taxing money that people do not have. Only a government employee like Yellen can say something so absurd and still be considered an “expert.”

RUSH THE VILLANOVAN RUSH THE VILLANOVAN RUSH THE VILLANOVAN RUSH THE VILLANOVAN

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

CULTURE

The Villanovan | 7

CULTURE

University Awards 50th and 51st Mendal Medals Chloe Miller Co-Culture Editor The University awarded the 50th and 51st Mendel Medal Awards to Lonnie G. Thompson and Ellen Mosley-Thompson over the weekend of Oct. 29-30 for their exceptional work on climate change and polar ice caps. This ceremony commemorated the 2020 Mendel Medal Award, as it was rescheduled due to the pandemic. The Mendel Medal was first awarded in 1929. According to the University website, the medal was established and awarded to outstanding scientists who have done much by their painstaking work to advance the cause of science, and by their lives and their standing before the world as scientists, have demonstrated that between true science and true religion there is no intrinsic conflict.”

Lonnie G. Thompson is a professor at Ohio State University in the Earth Sciences Department

and Ellen Mosley-Thompson is a professor in the Geography Department at Ohio State. The Thompson’s have dedicated their life’s work to investigating climate change while going on drilling expeditions to excavate ice cores.

Ice cores, according to Lonnie Thompson, are “artifacts” and give the history of that specific glacier including history of precipitation, output of the sun, volcanic matter and greenhouse gas activity.

During the Mendel Medal Lecture on Friday Oct. 29, the Thompson’s hosted a lecture titled “Rapidly Changing Climate and Retreating Glaciers: Past, Present and Future.”

They were introduced by Steven Goldsmith, an associate professor at Villanova University in the Department of Geography and the Environment. Mosley-Thompson spoke first, discussing the staggering effects of climate change. She highlighted the large decline of sea ice, rapid warming of the Earth and

glacier melting. Mosley-Thompson analyzed the causes behind the rapid climate change the world is currently experiencing, proving that it is not just natural mechanisms but also human mechanisms such as deforestation or the burning of fossil fuels.

The second part of the lecture was done by Lonnie G. Thompson, and he discussed their expeditions and the details of their work. He explained the work done on ice cores, specifically focusing on his work with the tropical Quelccaya ice cap.

The Thompson’s lab at Ohio State is filled with preserved ice cores from their previous expeditions.

Lonnie G. Thompson echoed Mosley-Thompson’s sentiments on the dire consequences of our global warming.

“We are losing the history that is in the ice,” Lonnie G. Thompson said.

He emphasized his point by claiming that many of the ice cores

that they keep in their lab are from ice caps that are no longer in existence due to intense melting.

Despite his call to action, Lonnie G. Thompson closed on a positive note claiming, “We do have a path forward,” citing the fall in price of renewable energy and the work done by the younger generation protesting the inaction on climate change.

Many students and staff were in attendance at the Mendel Medal Lecture.

“The speakers we had were lovely,” sophomore Emma Blenke said. “I learned so much about climate change and the retreating of the ice cores that I didn’t know about. I liked that they gave everyone steps forward to positively support the climate change community.”

Despite the delay in awarding the 2020 Mendel Medals, the event had a large turnout of students and staff from all disciplines.

The Villanovan Book Buzz: Toni Morrison’s “A Mercy” miscuity, of maternity sought from a foreign mother and of the hypocrisy of white man’s religion.

In the subsequent pages, Toni Morrison’s best-known readers come to understand that it works include the “Bluest Eye,” “Beis 1690 in Virginia. This mysteriloved,” “Sula” and “Song of Soloous, unnamed narrator is Florens, a mon.” First published in 2008, “A Mercy” was added to the celebrated 16-year-old Black girl. Florens is given to Jacob Vaark, a white businessauthor’s collection of novels. man and property owner whom she To fully grasp the significalls “Sir,” in settlement of the debt cance of Toni Morrison’s “A Merowed to him by the Portuguese slave cy,” it is necessary to understand that though America is a nation that owner she calls “Senhor.” Jacob, a man who claims to morally obrelied on brutal enslavement for its founding political and economic lib- ject slavery and who is insistent on erty, American history is established accumulating his own wealth, forms a makeshift family of himself and on the exclusion of Black culture. four women – one white, one mixed In a novel that is difficult to read race, one Black and one Native yet impossible to put down, MorriAmerican. In addition to Florens, son shows us that in the early days there is Jacob’s wife Rebekka, an of Colonial America, a new land immigrant from London whom the prospered while its Black men and servants call Mistress. Lina is a Nawomen faced violent, psychological tive American woman sold to Jacob trauma. by the church who rescued her from In the first pages, readers the disease that plagued her tribe. are presented with confessions and Lastly there is Sorrow, a mixed-race reassurances from an unnamed outcast who survived a shipwreck voice that says, “Don’t be afraid” before she was taken into the care while Morrison constructs a scene of Sir and Mistress. of blood and darkness. This unThe women are all orphans named voice talks of nights, dreams on the homestead of a land Morand Minha mãe. She tells of the moment her mother gives her up to rison presents as wild, scrappy and untamed. Lina, a nurturing and a white man out of preference for motherly character, acts as both her brother. Morrison plunges into Mistress’ right-hand woman and a narrative before the reader has Florens’ protector. All the while, any idea what is going on, but she Sorrow remains alone in the illusion seamlessly presents the beginning of the company of a companion ideas of a girl’s sexuality and proMolly Carriero Staff Writer

she calls Twin. Rebekka must cope with the death of her four children, and with the eventual death of her husband, she is driven to the point of despair. In her illness and mental absence, the homestead crashes.

The loose chains of sisterhood, motherhood and friendship fade away as the women retreat to isolation. Rebekka orders young Florens to find the Blacksmith who may cure her, a free Black man who once worked with Jacob.

There is much to be said of Florens’ love and desire for the blacksmith. Morrison depicts Florens’ mad infatuation as a hunger, a desperate yearning for bodily connection. But in a hurricane of events, her passion is deemed only wild and childish, and her love is dismissed.

“You are nothing but wilderness. No constraint. No mind.”

On the last pages of the book, the voice of Florens’ mother mysteriously returns. She recounts her horrific journey through the Middle Passage, saying, “I welcomed the circling sharks, but they avoided me as if knowing I preferred their teeth to the chains around my neck, my waist, my ankles.” She recalls a white man raping her, as well as his apology and consolatory gift of an orange.

She recounts the moment in which Vaark offers a “mercy” to her desperate plea. It is in this casual act by

Vaark that the meaning of Morrison’s title comes to full fruition. For Morrison, there are no miracles from God, only casual, careless mercies offered by white males.

Morrison creates pervasive themes of motherhood and reproduction throughout, but it does not come with ease or beauty. From sex and birth comes sexual violence and death, and from motherhood comes loss, pain and malevolence.

For Sorrow, a confusing, uncertain and potentially unreliable character, motherhood seems to be one of her only human skills. After losing her first child, she finds wholeness in motherhood at the cost of a likely violent and loveless consummation.

“A Mercy” begins where it ends. Embedded in the truth of her mother’s sacrifice is the knowledge that Florens’ owner is dead, and that the young girl will never receive her mother’s message. Left an untamed orphan by the white man who has mercy on her, she is to be rejected by a man who could never truly love her. Morrison taps into the experience of Black women during this time and of the danger, trauma and violence that perpetuates the Black condition at the expense of white advancement.

Through her varied, vivid and beautiful language, Morrison depicts the Black experience in a beautiful new world rooted in poisoned soil.

8 | The Villanovan

CULTURE

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

Lin Manuel’s Hamilton Returns to Philadelphia

Emma Cahill Staff Writer

Every once in a while, a musical changes Broadway forever.

One of these musicals is “Hamilton.” “Hamilton” has not only integrated itself into pop culture but has also changed how everyone looks at American history. Lin Manuel Miranda’s play is extremely popular; tons of people listen to the soundtrack on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music and watch it on the viewing platform Disney+.

To give a recap for those not familiar with the show, “Hamilton” tells the story of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton’s life, from the American Revolution to his fateful death in a duel with Aaron Burr.

Additionally, the show is revolutionary for its cast that features people of color as historically white figures, which aims to represent the picture of a diverse nation that belongs to all Americans. “Hamilton” is not only famous in the world of Broadway; it is one of the most culturally significant plays of all time. And now, this transformative musical experience is once again present in Philadelphia.

On Oct. 20, “Hamilton” opened at the Kimmel Cultural Campus. After being staged in various cities, such as Los Angeles and Omaha, this play about the scrappy Founding Father everyone knows and loves has been brought right to Philadelphia. The best of Broadway is only a train ride away for Villanova students. The Kimmel Cultural Campus is merely a five-minute walk from the 30th Street Station.

The cast of this production, led by Pierre Jean Gonzalez as Alexander Hamilton and Stephanie Jae Park as Eliza, is well-seasoned in the world of Broadway. Many of the players have been in multiple Broadway musicals, such as “The Lion King” and “The Book of Mormon” prior to this tour of “Hamilton.”

The cast member who played King George was even in the original cast

Hamilton, Broadway show that took the world by storm, is back and in Philadelpihia’s Kimmel Cultural Campus.

Courtesy of Joan Marcus

of “Hamilton” on Broadway. Given the incredible talent of this cast, anyone viewing this production is surely in for a treat.

Fortunately, I was in the audience and able to be in “the room where it happened” on Oct. 23. Having only seen the Disney+ version, the stage rendition was more incredible than one could have ever imagined. There is an exceptional element of the theatre that is simply unlike any other listening experience, and this version of “Hamilton” continues to prove this to be true. From the first flash of the spotlight and first pluck of the violins in the first act to Eliza’s last utterances of “Will they tell your story,’’ it was an encapsulating experience.

Every element presented in the show seemed to delight the audience. The lyrical genius of the songs, paired with the sounds of the music, was thrilling. The live music of the show sits with one much differently than it does in a recording.

Whether it was Hamilton’s rapping,

the ensemble’s harmonizing, Maria Reynolds’ rich voice or even King George’s wacky British accent, the performers sounded even more amazing in person. This theatrical experience is one that simply cannot be compared to the Spotify renditions.

Another spectacular part of the show was the choreography. The flow of movement presented by the cast was unbelievable. One particularly incredible scene in this regard is “Helpless,” which featured ballroom dancing as the ensemble utilized moves such as balletic fish dives and lifts to capture the energy of Eliza’s love for Hamilton. Additionally, the scene “Satisfied,” has a unique style of choreography. In this specific scene, the dancers moved backward to rewind to when Angelica first met Alexander Hamilton. As the music started to backtrack, the actors reversed their movements and looked like they moved back in time.

But the show’s greatness was not just due to the technical

elements, such as the singing, choreography and lighting. Rather, the show’s remarkableness was due to the passion with which the actors performed. The actors’ energy was exhilarating, and one could tell that there was true love for the stage in this performance. After the past year where people have not been able to attend shows, the revival of the theatre truly brought this production to a whole new level. The actors brought spirit to the stage which captured the liveliness of the pugnacious young immigrant who tells the audience, “Just you wait, just you wait.”

At the end of the show, as the cast took its final bows, its members received a well-deserved standing ovation. The crowd roared as the curtains closed, which marked the end of this incredible experience. So, if one ever ponders the answer to the question, “Who lives, who dies, who tells your story?” they should head right on over to the Kimmel Cultural Campus to see “Hamilton.”

Villanovan Horoscopes For The Week of November 1 Elena Rouse Co-Culture Editor Aries: It is time for a much needed change up, and Aries, this week you are getting it. Sick of the same old, same old? Well, lucky you because the universe has some nice excitement planned in the week ahead that will take you out of this repetitive rut. Buckle up, adventure awaits.

Taurus: Not everything is your fault. You are carrying around this blame for no reason.

You have been working hard and doing your best. If you sometimes mess up or things don’t go as planned, that’s not because you are in the wrong. Remember that you are stronger than your thoughts, and soon you will be led on a new journey of self-discovery.

Gemini: You will hear a truth this week that will surprise you. Whatever it is will be the opposite of how you thought a person was or how something worked. It might not be what you expected, but take the newfound

information with grace. Take this time to offer your best self in light of this truth, you won’t regret it.

Cancer: There is a toxicity in the air that is suffocating you.

Though you might not be able to smell it, the more you breathe in that negativity, the worse it clouds your judgement. It’s time to let go.

Sometimes, the things we want to be right for us are the very things that leave us more hurt. It’s time for a refreshing reset—you need it.

Leo: An intrigue from the past is tugging on your heart strings. You may want to ignore it, but don’t. Lean into what your heart is telling you to focus on and you’ll find that you are better for it. Maybe it’s a person or a place or something you liked to do.

Whatever it is, embrace it.

Virgo (Virgin): This week, the moon is shifting into a favorable orbit. All the annoying nitty gritty you’ve been dealing with will take a backseat this week, and it will be easier to focus on you and what you need to do. Take this opportunity to check in and make sure you are taking care of yourself and have a little fun while

you’re at it.

Libra (Balance): Sometimes we want what we can’t have, and that’s okay. What isn’t okay is letting those wants get to us.

Sometimes what you want isn’t meant for you, but that’s okay. Life isn’t supposed to always give you what you want, because sometimes better things are just around the corner, but we just don’t know it yet. There is something better around the corner, Libra.

Scorpio: What you want is yours for the taking. Stop second guessing yourself and just go for it. The recent clarity you’ve had about your feelings should be your driving force, and this week you’ll find that the exact opportunity you’re looking for falls into your lap. Be bold and get what you deserve.

Sagittarius: Don’t worry, the exhaustion you’re feeling won’t last forever. In fact, this week you’ll find yourself reaping the rewards of all the reasons for your tiredness. Let yourself take a step back, because it is often in those quiet moments where we find that part of ourselves that we need.

Capricorn: Stop running from what you need. You have been denying yourself for too long and it is starting to wear on you.

The life you want is close, but you have to let yourself have some goodness you haven’t been letting yourself feel. It isn’t wrong to let yourself relax and be happy.

Aquarius: You’ve been feeling separated lately. That’s normal. People ebb and flow with how they feel in the world, but you’ve been feeling a little distant from what you love to a greater extent lately. The upcoming days will be the worst of that feeling but fear not. You will soon find your way and will be reunited with what you love most.

Pisces: Life is unfair. It’s a statement that you’ve come to understand as of late, one that you aren’t too keen on. You are being pulled in different directions, and it’s been hard for you to pick where to land. The lack of control is frustrating, but it is that lack of control you must accept. Things are out of your hand, and this week, try to let go of what isn’t in your power to change.

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

CULTURE

The Villanovan | 9

Augustinians of Villanova: Father Kevin DePrinzio Olivia Sabalaskey Staff Writer “Our spirit comes alive when we are together,” Father Kevin DePrinzio, O.S.A., Ph.D., said, describing the Order of St. Augustine.

This week, Fr. Kevin offers Villanovans a glimpse into his life as an Augustinian at Villanova University in the Augustinians of Villanova Column.

A native to the area, Fr. Kevin grew up about a half hour from Villanova in Delaware County. He attended Monsignor Bonner & Archbishop Prendergast Catholic High School from 1990-1994.

During his Junior year, he felt a calling to the Augustinian life given that he was surrounded by about ten, inspiring Augustinian friars who taught at the school. Although these friars all had unique personalities and gifts, Fr. Kevin admired their strong, almost tangible friendship with one another; this brotherhood and sense of community attracted Fr. Kevin to the Augustinian life.

During Fr. Kevin’s Senior Year Retreat with the Augustinians, he spoke with an Augustinian priest about his interest in joining the Order of St. Augustine. Given that Fr. Kevin was going to attend St. Joseph’s University, a private Jesuit university in Philadelphia and Lower Merion, Pennsylvania, in the fall, the Augustinian priest suggested they stay in touch.

As a student at St. Joseph’s University, Fr. Kevin studied English and Secondary Education.

He also had a passion for extracurricular activities on campus.

Fr. Kevin worked as the Copy Editor for The Hawk, St. Joseph’s student-run newspaper, and he was very involved with Campus Ministry. Fr. Kevin attended and helped coordinate retreats while also participating in weekly mass as a lector and Euchartistic Minister. During his time at St. Joseph’s University, Jesuit priests would often speak with Fr. Kevin and confirm how God was calling him to the priesthood.

“It was funny that the Jesuits at St. Joe’s knew that although I was being called to religious life, they knew that I was meant to be an Augustinian, not a Jesuit” Fr. Kevin said.

After graduation, Fr. Kevin reconnected with the Augustinian priest from his high school and

(Left to Right) Fr. Kevin DePrinzio, O.S.A., Ph.D. with Fr. Carlos Urbina, O.S.A. and Fr. Joe Narog, O.S.A. Courtesy of Fr. Kevin DePrinzio, O.S.A., Ph.D

entered the Community in 1998 given his passion for secondary education and teaching, as well as his love for the Order of St. Augustine.

When he entered the Formation process, often referred to as the Seminary, he spent four years in Theological study and participated in a year-long retreat called the Novitiate. During the Novitiate, Fr. Kevin and others interested in becoming Augustinian friars prayed together, asking God if He was calling them to the Augustinian way of life. Fr. Kevin then spent his Pastoral year in ministry by returning to his old high school where he became the school’s minister and taught religion classes.

After Fr. Kevin’s Final Profession and Ordination, he was sent on his first official assignment to work in Campus Ministry at Merrimack College from 20042007. He then joined the Villanova community in 2007 in Campus Ministry and as the Vocation Director. Fr. Kevin reminisces often about his time as Villanova’s Vocation Director from 2007-2012 because he is grateful to have helped guide Villanova students who are now ordained, Augustinian priests: Fr. Bill Gabriel, Fr. Bryan Kerns and Fr. Dan Madden.

From 2012-2017, Fr. Kevin was sent to the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C.

where he studied and received his doctrine in Spirituality and Historical Study. He returned to Villanova afterwards as a full-time professor in Theology.

“During my first year or so here at Villanova, I taught the introductory course for Theology, THL 1000,” Fr. Kevin said.

“I loved having deep, theological conversations with the students.

I always compare these classes to the Emoji with the exploding head because, as a class, we would open our minds to wonderful theological concepts and learn something new.”

Although he continues to teach THL 1000, Fr. Kevin recently accepted the role of Vice President of Mission and Ministry in 2020.

“I love my job!” Fr. Kevin said. “I have the privilege of working with wonderful people in Mission and Ministry such as those in Campus Ministry, the Center for Peace and Justice, Catholic Relief Services and the Center for Faith & Learning.”

In his new role, Fr. Kevin helps ensure that the mission of Villanova reflects Augustinian values in every aspect. For example, Fr. Kevin and his team in the Office for Mission and Ministry frequently meet with alumni, benefactors and colleges on campus to help translate what Augustinian values look like in their

organizations. During Homecoming Weekend (10/22-10/24), Fr. Kevin spent time with the Villanova Alumni Board to investigate how Augustinian values can be best applied to the 21st century.

“To be an Augustinian is to be highly relational,” Fr. Kevin said. “I believe that there is a strong spirit of Augustinian community in the Villanova network.”

Fr. Kevin’s favorite part of working and teaching at Villanova is the strong sense of community.

As a community, Fr. Kevin admires how Villanovans work together to become better individuals in whichever vocation God is calling them to. For those interested in pursuing religious life, Fr. Kevin encourages those men and women to be open to it because God might be asking them to dig a bit deeper.

“Don’t be afraid to explore that calling,” Fr. Kevin said. “It is a wonderful life of prayer, community, inclusivity, and service. It is a life worth exploring and living.”

Finally, Fr. Kevin is an avid fan of three television shows: “Ted Lasso,” “Game of Thrones” and “Lost.” Given that “Lost” frequently analyzes certain theological concepts and themes, Fr. Kevin often incorporates the television show into his Homilies at Sunday Mass and in his Theology class discussions.

10 | The Villanovan

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

CULTURE

Wes Anderson’s French Dispatch Movie Review

on the prowl to report on different bizarre stories. Three of these stories make up the three main parts of this film.

The film is laid out as if As of last week, I had never you’re reading a newspaper, with the seen a Wes Anderson film before. title of each part serving as an article Crazy, right? Upon hearing headline. this, most cinephiles would have The first part of “The French asked me to turn in my movie-lover Dispatch” is called “The Concrete card.

Masterpiece, by J.K.L. Berensen.”

“The French Dispatch” was This part follows the life of the immy first foray into the world of Wes Anderson, a film director famous for prisoned, mentally-disturbed painter his distinctive color palettes, symmet- Moses Rosenthaler as he becomes an international art sensation. rical shots and offbeat humor.

Tilda Swinton gave an unexThe film premiered at pectedly humorous performance as Cannes Film Festival back in July and had its wide theatrical release on the reporter J.K.L. Berenson in this Friday, Oct. 29. It features an all-star part. Those who are used to Swincast that includes Bill Murray, Owen ton’s serious and regal demeanor in the “Doctor Strange” and “The Wilson, Tilda Swinton, Timothee Chronicles of Narnia” franchises Chalamet and many others. will have their expectations of her If I had to describe “The character totally upended.

French Dispatch” in one word, it The humor in this film would be charming. manages to avoid both dryness and The film transports you obviousness. The humor is clever, into a beautiful world. The movie and it only works because of Anis consistently aesthetically pleasing that at any moment, you could pause derson’s excellent timing. He knows it, and that frame would look like an what to reveal, when to reveal it and award-winning photograph. Some of how to reveal it. This is a skill that not enough filmmakers have. the shots of the town were actually The second part of “The filmed on-location in France, while French Dispatch” is called “Revisome are clearly still-lifes. sions to a Manifesto, by Lucinda The look of “The French Krementz.” This part follows reportDispatch” is complemented by er Lucinda Krementz as she covers charming sounds. The film was a student protest movement, fighting scored by Alexandre Desplat, and for the right of male students to has a nervous energy that, when enter female dormitories. paired with utterly silly scenarios, Timothée Chalamet gives a adds to the comic nature of the film. hilarious performance as Zeffirelli, The film takes place in the the leader of this student movement fictional, humorously-named town and author of the movement’s maniof Ennui-sur-Blasé, a quintessenfesto. tially French village (at least in the While not explicitly stated American imagination). There, a to take place in the 1960s, “ReKansas-based newspaper has an international outpost (the eponymous visions to a Manifesto” is replete French Dispatch) filled with reporters with references to the French New A.J. Fezza Co-Culture Editor

Anderson’s new film has an all-star cast and did not disappoint.

Courtesy of BBC/20th Century Studios/TFD Productions

Wave, the May 1968 student protest movement and other iconic elements of 1960s France. Anderson shows tremendous attention to detail. In one scene on Ennui-sur-Blasé’s main street, a shop in the background is named “Masculin Feminin” after the iconic French New Wave film.

This blink-if-you-miss-it moment is probably unnoticed and unimportant to most viewers, but it is evidence of Anderson’s meticulousness and deep appreciation for cinema.

The final part of “The French Dispatch” is called “The Private Dining Room of the Police Commissioner, by Roebuck Wright.”

It follows reporter Roebuck Wright having dinner with the police commissioner of Ennui-sur-Blasé, when all of a sudden, chaos ensues. While amusing at times, it is the weakest part of the film. The characters in this part are bland. Whether this is the fault of subpar acting or subpar writing is unclear.

This part contains an animated car chase sequence that left a bad taste in my mouth. I typically enjoy animation interspersed with live action scenes in films. However, in this case, there was no clear reason for the scene to be animated. It felt as

if all of a sudden the film tightened its budget and at the last minute had to resort to animation.

A recurring theme throughout “The French Dispatch” is the mockery of the pretentious. In “The Concrete Masterpiece,” we laugh at the pompous art world. In “Revisions to a Manifesto,” we laugh at the pseudo-philosophical conversations of naive, hormonal student revolutionaries.Throughout it all, we laugh at the unbridled persistence of the journalists covering these stories.

Some critics complained that in “The French Dispatch,” Anderson merely repeated his old tricks. As a new viewer of his, I’m unable to testify to that criticism. But what I can say is that “The French Dispatch” stands on its own. One doesn’t need any prior viewing experience of Anderson whatsoever to enjoy it. More importantly, this film was impressive enough to inspire me to start watching the rest of Anderson’s filmography.

All in all, if you want to watch an entertaining, light-hearted comedy that is not low-brow, “The French Dispatch” will not disappoint.

Villanova Honors Students Take on Hershey Park Kai da Luz Staff Writer When Halloween visits Villanova, it is bound to bring with it some tricks and treats. The biggest trick already came with Offset’s performance at Hoops Mania, so something sweeter was bound to come about.

For the University’s Honors program, this sugary surprise materialized with its fall field trip to Hershey Park.

The trip kicked off Saturday, Oct. 30, with students departing from Connelly Circle at 1 p.m. in three buses. The $30 cost to attend the trip included transportation, admission and a meal voucher. Honors students spanning all four years were in attendance, and some students brought a non-honors guest along as well.

The journey to Hershey, Pennsylvania took about an hour and 45 minutes. Hershey Park was fully transformed for Halloween, with many spooky decorations covering the grounds. Some Halloween classics played from park speakers to help visitors get in the Halloween spirit. With the periodic waves of synthetic fog, it was truly a sight to behold.

Many students had never been to Hershey Park before, while others living more locally had visited many times. Some of the group’s favorite rides included the Candymo-

nium, Lightning Racer and Wildcat coasters. Whether they were classic wooden roller coasters, fast and smooth coasters or rides with loops and drops on end, Hershey Park had it all. Many of the rides had lines that were less than 20 minutes long, making it the ideal time for thrill-seekers.

After a pandemic amusement park drought, the rides ushered students back into the thrill and rush that they had almost forgotten.

The sweet and savory treats that Hershey had to offer, however, were yet another student highlight.

The King Size Shakes available at Hershey Park’s Simply Chocolate were chocolatey enough to make one question all of their life decisions but in the best way possible. After such a sugary endeavor, trying one of the many salty and savory soft pretzels is a must. With flavors like parmesan, garlic, jalapeño, cinnamon sugar and cinnamon raisin, you couldn’t go wrong.

Right outside the park at Hershey World, students discovered a whole new meaning to candy. As Hershey’s largest brick-and-mortar candy store, there was something for everyone. Some loved the sugary milkshakes available, including the Halloween-inspired Hershey’s Kisses Fang-tastic Strawberry Milkshake.

Others tried their luck with the wide variety of candy that painted the isles.

The buses departed from Hershey World at 8 p.m. and arrived back on campus around 9:50 p.m.

“It was a great time,” freshman Philip Osborn said. “We were able to go on some fun rides, walk around a lot and take in Halloween Park as a whole. Mostly, we were able to hang out with some great friends

and even make some new ones.”

Overall, the Villanova Honors field trip was a success and a great opportunity for many of the students to meet and bond off-campus. It will be exciting to see what adventure Honors IHC and the Villanova Honors program have planned next for its students.

Honors students enjoyed Hershey Park this past weekend.

Courtesy of @hersheypark

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

The Villanovan | 11

CULTURE

Humanities Department’s Faith and Reason Lecture A.J. Fezza Co-Culture Editor Each spring, the University’s Hmanities Department holds a Faith and Reason Lecture, provided by a member of the faculty. It’s a beloved tradition nearly as old as the Humanities Department itself.

COVID-19 restrictions meant that last spring’s Faith and Reason Lecture went through continual postponements. Finally, though, on the night of Tuesday, Oct. 26, the long-awaited moment had come for this year’s lecture.

The 2021 Faith and Reason Lecture was given by Dr. Helena Tomko, on the topic “What Are You Laughing At?: Humanizing Humor in the Age of Snark.” The lecture was delivered in Bartley Hall’s PwC Auditorium to a nearly-full room of about 50 eager students, alumni and faculty, as well as some outside individuals via livestream.

Tomko has been a professor in the Humanities Department since 2008, and regularly teaches a Humanities course called “Human Person.”

“I always felt that one of the best bits of humanity that we never got around to in ‘Human Person’ is talking about is our sense of humor,” Tomko said.

“There’s something glorious about the fact that human beings laugh.”

Tomko has much personal experience researching the topic of humor, as she has been working for the past five years on a book that considers the role of humor in classic Catholic fiction.

Through this lecture, she has been able to bring some of her research to the forefront.

In the lecture, Tomko dove into questions about the origin, nature and power of laughter, using examples from sitcoms, films and literature along the way.

Tomko began by describing three classic theories of what makes us laugh: superiority theory, the relief thesis and the incongruity thesis. Superiority theory suggests that humor is based on a shared sense of superiority over another individual. The relief thesis suggests that humor is a release of pent-up nervous energy. The incongruity thesis suggests that humor is a reaction to something being or acting different from our expectations.

However, Tomko felt that something was missing from these classic theories. For example, a baby’s laughter is unlikely to be rooted in a sense of superiority or nervousness, and is clearly about more than a reaction to an incongruity.

“It percolates with burgeoning trust, with joy, with recognition, with affirmation,” Tomko said.

Tomko thus concluded that this type of laughter stands outside the three classic theories. Rather, it is the “laughter of unadulterated dependence.” This laughter is innocent and similar to what we think of as pure joy.

Later in the lecture, Tomko also points out the existence of a similar form of laughter: “laughter

Dr. Helena Tomko presents the University’s 2021 Faith and Reason Lecture.

Courtesy of @novahumanities

of acknowledged dependence.”

Acknowledged dependence, according to philosopher Alasdair MacIntyre, is an understanding of one’s relationship with others that is based on the virtues of generosity, truthfulness, and humility.

The laughter of acknowledged dependence may not be found in babies, who are below the age of reason, but it is found in moments of kind-hearted laughter between friends.

Both of these forms of laughter stand in opposition to a form of laughter that is more cutting: “the laughter of desperate and defiant independence.” This is the laughter that is found in gossip and mockery. However, Tomko noted that the laughter of defiant independence should not necessarily be wholly eschewed, as it is also found in satire, a necessary element in any free society.

Tomko spent the remainder of the lecture analyzing examples of these forms of laughter in media and the role that these forms of laughter play in our lives.

She left the audience with some final words on the relationship between laughter and love.

“Our laughter has a lot to do with how we understand our responsibilities toward others,” Tomko concluded. “How we laugh sometimes measures how we love.”

Following the lecture, The Villanovan spoke with Tomko to learn more about her thoughts on humor as it relates to contemporary issues.

The past two years have clearly been marred by the COVID-19 pandemic and widespread social unrest. Tomko believes that these factors have contributed to a collective feeling of humorlessness and dissatisfaction, which she refers to as “The Great Souring.”

“I think that the pandemic has brought to the surface things that are sour among us, things that are challenging among us,” Tomko said. “For a lot of us, it’s like a

taste in the mouth that won’t go away.”

She clarified that this “souring” is more than just a domestic issue; it’s international.

“I think the particular crisis of the past two years seems to be manifested all over the world in different ways,” Tomko said.

Tomko encourages people to look into alternatives to lessen this collective sense of sourness.

The Villanovan also spoke with Tomko about humor as it relates to the social life of the college student.

“Certain phases of our life lend themselves to certain kinds of humor more,” Tomko said of humor in young adulthood. “Maybe you wouldn’t crack the jokes you would’ve cracked in middle school now, but there’s still sort of that tendency to kind of validate yourself through a joke at somebody else’s expense. And that doesn’t go away as a temptation, I don’t think, at any point in life.”

Humor at Villanova in 2021 appears in various ways.

There are, of course, personal moments of humor. You witness this every time you see a group of friends laugh together at a lunch table at the Connelly Center, every time you overhear whispered gossip and snarky remarks at the Falvey Library and every time you walk past a class chuckling at a professor’s joke in Bartley Hall.

These moments are all different, but nevertheless involve faceto-face interaction. Face-to-face interaction comes with a sense of responsibility, as there is no anonymity to hide behind.

There are also communal moments of humor, which nowadays mostly come from social media. These moments are often unifying in a positive way, allowing students to bond about shared experiences. When @barstoolvillanova posts a video of hordes of students tripping and falling onto the elevated basketball court at Hoops Mania, it has the effect of

immediately uniting thousands of Villanova students in a light-hearted way. This is also true for whenever you see a post poking fun at the University’s portable chair craze, the campus squirrels, the spotted lanternflies and much else.

Still, some communal platforms also have the potential to be destructive. The anonymous posting app YikYak has exploded in popularity at Villanova this semester. The app has served as a public forum for the University, providing endless humor and commentary.

However, the app has also been known for being prone to harassment in the past, and at times this semester has not been the friendliest site for students.

While Tomko is unfamiliar with the particulars of the social media landscape among the Villanova student body, she offered general advice about how to use such platforms mindfully.

“Often, if you’re cracking a derisive joke that you’re launching into some app online, you’re acting as if you’re totally independent of the consequences, of the people you’re joking about, and as if there was a sort of no real connection between you and them,” Tomko said. “So I would advocate a return to a sense of acknowledged dependence; you never crack a joke at someone else’s expense without it having some kind of consequence.”

The past two years have been difficult. However, a simple walk through Villanova’s campus or a scroll through Villanova-centric social media accounts show that there is still much humor to be found at the University. If there is one thing to remember, though, it is to be mindful of our humor.

Make sure to not succumb to immaturity or to the sourness of our age and allow them to make our humor mean-spirited and derisive.

To paraphrase Dr. Tomko, let how we laugh measure how we love.

SPORTS

12 | The Villanovan

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

SPORTS

Cross Country Competes In Big East Championships Loghan Hirkey Staff Writer On Friday, Oct. 29, the Villanova men’s and women’s cross-country team competed at the Big East Championships. As a team, the men were third out of nine teams, and the women finished fourth out of 11 teams.

Additionally, the top five teams for the women were only separated by 17 points, which made the outcome one of the closest championships in history. The top-five men’s teams were just 50 points apart, indicating another close outcome.

Individually, junior Lydia Olivere was second out of 97 runners with a 6k time of 20:49.3.

She finished a mere two seconds after the first-place finisher. This was Olivere’s third top-three finish at the Big East Championships.

Freshman Sadie Sigfstead also made it into the top 10 with a fifth-place finish, finishing with a time of 21 minutes flat in her first Big East race.

Senior Haftu Strintzos placed second out of 87 runners for the men, with an 8k race time of 23:59. This is the second straight season that Strintzos has placed in the top two for the Big East Championships. Also, placing in the top 10 was sophomore Jack Jennings, who finished with a time of 24:35.8. This was only Jennings’ fourth collegiate race in his

career.

Additionally, anyone who placed in the top-20 was awarded all-Big East honors. Besides Strintzos, Jennings, Olivere and Sigfstead, Maggie Smith snagged an honor at 14th for the women, and Charlie O’Donovan, Justin Weber and Ryan Cutter received honors for 15th, 16th and 20th. Less than half a second separated O’Donovan and Weber. This was also Cutter’s first Big East race. Olivere and Sigfstead made the first team all-conference and Smith made the second team. Strintzos and O’Donovan are now three-time All-Big East performers.

The rest of the men’s roster was freshman Liam Murphy, who placed 21st, junior Josh Phillips, who was 23rd, senior Paul Nichols, who came in 32nd, senior Nick Steele, who was 34th and junior Will Merritt, who was 46th.

The rest of the women’s roster included senior McKenna Keegan, who was 26th, freshman Emily Robinson, who placed 33rd, junior Anna Helwigh who was 34th, sophomore Elizabeth Vaughn, who placed 42nd, freshman Maya Dorer who was 60th, junior Brynne Sumner, who placed 70th and freshman Alex Stasichin, who was 79th. This was Robinson’s first collegiate conference championship competition.

The top-seven for the men that contributed to the team’s

score were Strintzos, Jennings, O’Donovan, Weber, Cutter, Murphy and Phillips. The top seven for the women that contributed to the team’s score were Olivere, Sigfstead, Smith, Keegan, Robinson, Helwigh and Vaughn.

Eight out of the 10 runners on the women’s roster were only in their first or second year of collegiate cross country.

Villanova cross country has now had 122 all-Big East performers. This was its fourth straight

season of earning at least five All-Big East honors. This is also the fifth time in the last six seasons that both the men and women have had three or more all-Big East finishers.

The Wildcats will now be preparing for the NCAA Mid-Atlantic Regional on Friday, Nov. 12.

The regional meet will take place at Goodman Campus Course at Lehigh and will determine the automatic and at-large qualifiers for the NCAA Championships.

Senior Lydia Olivere finished as runner-up.

Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

Men’s Swimming Falls To Georgetown, Women Win Aphrodite Dimopoulos Staff Writer The men’s swimming and diving team traveled to Washington, D.C. on Saturday to face off against Georgetown in its season opener. Although the Wildcats took home the win in three individual events, they fell short to the Hoyas, 182-112. The Wildcats fall to 0-1 on the young season, while the Hoyas improved to 4-0.

The women’s swimming and diving team also competed against Georgetown this weekend in Washington D.C. They defeated the Hoyas by a score of 154-137, with seven different athletes winning at least one individual event to give the women’s team a record of 1-0 on the young season.

Although falling short overall, Villanova posted 14 individual top-three finishes, demonstrating a strong start to the season. Junior Kevin Geist, junior Reid Hutcherson and sophomore Nolan Danus won the 100 fly, 200 free and 200 fly, respectively.

Geist finished his 100 fly with a time of 51.08. Also placing in the 100 fly was junior Ryan Maher, who finished in third place with a time of 52.95, and senior Jesse Marsh, who finished in fourth place with a time of 53 seconds flat.

Further in the butterfly races, Danus dominated the 200

fly with a time of 1:53.93. He outswam Geist in this race, who placed in third with a time of 1:54.51, along with junior Stephen Griner, who finished seconds after Geist in fourth place with a time of 2:02.94. The 100 and 200 fly races secured 28 of the total 182 points for Villanova.

Butterfly was not the only stroke the men’s team was able to dominate. Hutcherson led the squad in the 200 free, securing a first place win with a time of 1:42.95. He followed this up with a third place win in the 100 free, with the time of 47.91. The junior did not stop there. Hutcherson went on to lead the 400 freestyle relay that ended up placing second with a time of 3:09.90. Also swimming in this event with Hutcherson were Maher, sophomore Charlie Hinckley and freshman Patrick Hemingway.

Hemingway continued his success in the 50 free as the runner-up with a time of 21.66.

Ethan Brown followed up Hemingway’s success with some of his own, adding a third place finish in the 100 back with a time of 52.81 and a fourth place finish in the 200 back.

Furthermore, in the 200 IM, Danus finished in third with a time of 1:56.21 followed by Nolan, who came in fifth with a time of 1:58.93. Nolan went on to place third in the 200 breast with a time of 2:11.75, followed by freshman Henry Haberman, who

placed fifth with a time of 2:14.10.

Beyond the first place wins and high scoring in individual events, the men’s team scored highly in relays to rack up points.

The team started its day with a 200 medley relay swam by Brown, sophomore Richard Nolan, Marsh and Hemingway. This quartet finished in third with a time of 1:35.26.

Other notable times of the day came from Hinckley, who placed third in the 500 free with a time of 4:45.15 and fourth in the 1000 free with a time of 9:54.32.

Junior Jake McIntyre also swam in the 1000 free, finishing in third place ahead of Hinckley with a time of 9:49.70. Furthermore, freshman Carson Brockette finished third in his first meet with Villanova in the 200 back with a time of 1:55.17.

The Wildcats are in action again this Friday at a men’s only meet against NJIT. NJIT is 0-1 on the season, with a loss to Georgeton. The next women’s meet will be Wednesday, November 10th at 5:00 PM at the Villanova Swim Complex on campus.

The women’s swim team had a successful weekend, but the men fell short.

Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

The Villanovan | 13

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

Men’s Soccer Picks Up Crucial Point At Providence Owen Hewitt Staff Writer

Villanova men’s soccer played 110 minutes against 18thranked Providence in the driving rain, scrapping for a 0-0 draw.

The deadlock between the two squads could not be broken in two overtimes, resulting in a draw that could prove crucial for the Wildcats in their push for a Big East tournament berth.

Senior goalkeeper Carson Williams stepped up in a big way throughout the night for the ‘Cats, making seven saves on the Friars through all four periods of play.

The entirety of the Wildcats’ defensive unit was forced into action, as Providence applied pressure relentlessly throughout the night.

The Friars outshot the ‘Cats, 28-7.

While junior midfielder Josh Belluz and junior defender Viktor Benediktsson helped to hold down the fort on the defensive end in the first half, the ‘Cats struggled to get anything going offensively. Sophomore midfielder Dominic Cyriacks had the only shot on frame for the Wildcats through the first 45 minutes of play.

The goal frame itself played a major role in the match, as there were multiple shots on the night that clanged off either the crossbar or the posts.

The first came from freshman forward Balthi Saunders, as he launched a shot that clattered into the left post right after the halftime break. In the 68th minute, Providence forward Davis Smith headed a shot that looked like it was head-

ed for the back of the net, but it hit the frame as well, and Williams was able to collect the ricochet safely.

Benediktsson and Williams continued to play a big role through the second half and overtime periods, with Benediktsson blocking multiple dangerous shots and Williams making four saves through the second half and overtime periods.

“Viktor was a warrior tonight,” head coach Tom Carlin said to Villanova Athletics. “This was his kind of game. And really our whole back line did a great job – Bonas, Drags and Gray (Ricca).

They’re hard to deal with, particularly in the air. And Carson came up with some big saves.”

The Friars put the ball in the back of the net in the 106th minute, but a handball against Providence negated the goal, allowing the ‘Cats to hold on for four more minutes and escape with the draw.

The point the ‘Cats earned Saturday night in the rain is essential to their push for a spot in the Big East tournament, as it ties them with four other teams for fourth place. Villanova, Creighton, Butler and Marquette are all deadlocked with 13 conference points. All but Marquette have a game remaining in the season. The Big East tournament will feature the top six teams in the conference, meaning that of the bunch tied for fourth, one, or possibly two with a win from DePaul and losses from the four teams currently tied for fourth on the final matchday, will miss the tournament.

The Wildcats can avoid a multitude of “what if ’” situations

Junior defender Viktor Benediktsson gathers the ball.

Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

by simply beating Seton Hall at home on Wednesday at 3 p.m. A win would secure the ‘Cats a spot in the tournament, and possibly would give the squad a home playoff game for the first time since 2016. The Pirates are at the very bottom of the Big East standings with just seven points, so Seton Hall will only have the motivation to play spoiler and finish their season strong.

For the ‘Cats, their first round playoff matchup, if they make it, will be one of the four

teams currently tied for fourth, DePaul, St. John’s or Providence.

Georgetown has locked up a first round bye, and Providence will do so with a win on Wednesday. If Providence cannot pull out a win at Creighton, then St. John’s has the opportunity to jump them in the standings with a win at home against Butler.

Only time will tell if the ‘Cats get into the tournament, but the point in Providence goes a long way towards that effort.

Volleyball Earns Two Important Victories at Home Zac Tipton Staff Writer The Villanova Wildcats were back in Jake Nevin this weekend to face Seton Hall and St. John’s. Villanova took down the Pirates on Friday in four sets, 2522, 21-25, 25-20 and 25-23, then beat the Red Storm on Saturday in a five-set thriller, 25-22, 21-25, 2225, 26-24 and 15-8.

Villanova came into the Seton Hall match having lost their last two games.

The first set was a back and forth with five lead changes.

The set was tied at 10-10, before Villanova went on a 4-1 run to take a 14-11 lead thanks to kills by sophomore middle blocker Madeline Barber and freshman outside hitter Rose Crist. Villanova was able to pull away, despite a couple of service errors and take the set 25-22 with three kills in the last five points.

The second set went differently than the first. Seton Hall came out on a 12-2 run and had the ‘Cats playing catch up for the rest of the set. Villanova did come back though, going on a 9-2 run of their own to bring the score to 1411 thanks to three aces. In the third giant run of the set, Seton Hall went on a 7-3 run, and although Villanova continued to push back, the lead was too much to overcome, as Seton Hall was able to hang on and win 25-21.

The third set began back and forth until Villanova went on a 5-1 strike to make the score 128. After that run, Seton Hall and ‘Nova would trade points until the ‘Cats went on another 5-0 run, including three straight aces from junior setter Belle Morgan. This allowed them to coast to the finish and take home the third set, 25-20.

The fourth set was a series of 4-0 runs. ‘Nova went on one early in the set but was instantly brought back to the pack when Seton Hall had a run of their own, followed by yet another 4-0 run from the ‘Cats. Later in the set, ‘Nova led 23-19, but the Pirates went on a 4-0 run to tie the match.

Villanova took the last two points of the set behind back-to-back kills from Crist and Homer to end the match 25-23, bringing the Wildcats’ record to 13-10.

Villanova was led by Homer with 15 kills and Morgan with 43 assists.

St. John’s came into the game 14-11, having lost five of their previous seven.

The first set was close the whole way, with scores even at three separate points in the set.

Despite rarely holding a lead in the set, Villanova was the team that finished strong, winning 25-22.

St. John’s took control of the second set early. Attack errors cost the Wildcats towards the end of this one, and St. John’s Giorgia Walther was able to finish it off 25-

21.

The third set was almost identical to the second set. St. John’s took an 11-6 lead early, and despite constant pressure from Villanova, never gave the lead back and finished the set 25-22.

The fourth set was the game changer, and a set that will be looked back on as a set that might’ve changed the course of Villanova’s season. St. John’s came out firing, ready to put the match away, and went on an 8-0 run to lead 10-4. After trading points, the Red Storm led 18-10, but the ‘Cats refused to quit and went on a 9-6 run of their own. Down 24-19 with the game and their season on the line, the ‘Cats won seven straight points, extending the match to a

fifth set.

In the fifth set, the Wildcats rode their momentum and capitalized on a clearly shocked Red Storm. Villanova put the set away with a 5-0 run behind a series of three kills from Homer and two aces from Salvador. A kill from Kathleen Johnson finished off an incredible come from behind victory, giving the ‘Cats a crucial Big East victory.

Villanova improved to 1410 on the season and now sit just a game behind Butler for the coveted fourth and final spot in the conference championships. The Wildcats go on the road next week to face 5-18 Georgetown and 17-7 UConn with an opportunity to capitalize on their newfound momentum.

Volleyball is currently on a playoff push.

Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

14 | The Villanovan

SPORTS

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

Women’s Soccer Drops Season Finale Amanda McKean Staff Writer On Thursday, Oct. 28, the Villanova women’s soccer team lost its final game of the season at St. John’s, 2-1. The Wildcats finished with a record of 7-11 on the season, 1-9 in Big East play.

In this final game, the Wildcats played without head coach Chris McLain, as they did against Butler. Associate head coach Daniel Clitnovici filled in during these last couple of games for the Wildcats. It was announced on Friday that McLain had resigned from his position after five years as head coach.

The Wildcats were dominated for much of the game, but kept within striking distance behind stellar defensive play. Villanova finished with only two shots on goal and five shots total for the game, compared to the Red Storm’s five shots on goal and 15 shots in total.

The Villanova defense was the story of the first half, as it thwarted several St John’s attacks to enter the half tied at zero.

Freshman goalkeeper Ela Kopec made her fourth consecutive start and came up big in the half with three key saves.

The Red Storm was able to end Kopec’s shutout in the 54th minute of the game, when Jessica Garziano was able to connect with Zsani Kajan for a goal.

The next goal came just six minutes later, as Nicole Mutler

connected with Kajan, who passed it to Nicole Gordon. Gordon fired past Kopec to put the Red Storm ahead 2-0.

However, the Wildcats fought hard to tie it up. In the 87th minute of the game, senior forward Chloe O’Neill took a shot from outside the box which deflected off a St John’s defender and over the hapless Red Storm keeper. O’Neill ended the season as the team’s leading scorer.

With the game, the Wildcats wrap up a very disappointing

season. After winning their first five games and starting the season 6-1, expectations were high around the program, but little went right in conference play. The Wildcats lost all but one of their conference games, and ten of their final eleven games.

Next season, much of the Wildcat core returns. Villanova must replace leading scorer O’Neill, as well as search for a new head coach, yet with several key pieces returning, the future is bright for the ‘Cats.

Junior defender Molly Shannon looks to pass earlier this season.

Courtesy of Graydon Paul/Villanovan Photography

Graceffo Starring In Minor Leagues

that “the competition in the Big Alex Tantum East and out of conference comStaff Writer petition helped prepare me for the competition in the pros.”

Upon being selected with Clearly, Villanova prepared the 151st pick in the fifth round Graceffo well for the big leagues. of the 2021 MLB draft by the St. Pitching for the High-A Affiliate Louis Cardinals and subsequentof the Cardinals, the Palm Beach ly signing with the team, GorCardinals, and coming out of don Graceffo officially ended his the bullpen, Graceffo finished his storied Villanova baseball career rookie season with a 1.73 ERA and began the next part of what and 37 strikeouts over 26 innings. he hopes to be a storied profesIn Major League Baseball, upon sional baseball career. Following being drafted, one does not immehis rookie season in the Cardinals’ diately go to “the big leagues” as organization, it is safe to say that in the NBA or NFL. Instead, playGraceffo is on the right path, as he ers go through the “farm system,” earned The Cardinal Nation’s Mi- which consists of various levels nors Rookie Pitcher of the Year. up to AAA. Since being drafted Graceffo, who had estaband entering the Cardinals’ farm lished himself as one of the best system, Graceffo has been working pitchers in Villanova history, went on getting more consistent with his 7-2 with a 1.54 ERA, 0.963 WHIP pitches and putting more weight and 9.4 K/9 in 11 starts for the on. The work has definitely been Wildcats over the course of their paying off.

2021 season. Together with hitters Although not used to such as Chris Rotondo, Ryan Too- pitching in a relief role, Graceffo hers and Nick Lorusso and other excelled in it, although he is lookpitchers including Tyler Arella and ing forward to returning to being Jimmy Kingsbury, Graceffo led a starting pitcher next season. He Villanova baseball to its best seawas put into a relief role by the son since 2012 (excluding the 2020 Cardinals because of the amount pandemic-shortened season). He of innings he had pitched for Vilsaid that being a part of the Villa- lanova and in the summer league, nova baseball program “helped me but the organization wants to a lot” in preparation for a proput him back into the starter role fessional career. Manager Kevin and envision him being a starting Mulvey, who pitched professionally pitcher long-term. for the New York Mets, Minnesota As for next season, Twins and Arizona DiamondGraceffo is looking forward to backs, provided plenty of valuable continuing his professional baseguidance for what to expect in the ball journey. The ultimate goal pros. Additionally, Graceffo stated for next season is to be successful

enough at the High-A level to end the year at the AA level with the Springfield Cardinals. For now, he is well on his way towards becoming an impactful pitcher in the majors.

WEEKLY SCOREBOARD Oct. 27 - Nov. 2

Wednesday, October 27 None Thursday, October 28 Women’s Soccer @ St. John’s 1-2 L Friday, October 29 Men’s Cross Country @ Big East Championships 3rd/9 Women’s Cross Country @ Big East Championships 4th/11 Field Hockey @ Georgetown 1-2 L Volleyball vs Seton Hall 3-1 W Saturday, October 30 Golf @ City 6 Invitational 2nd/5 Football vs William & Mary 18-31 L Swim @ Georgetown Men: 112-182 L Women: 154-137 W Head of the Schuykill Regatta No team scoring Women’s Basketball vs Indiana University of Pennsylvania (Exhibition) 93-44 W Volleyball vs St. John’s 3-2 W Men’s Soccer @ Providence 0-0 T Sunday, October 31 None Monday, November 1 None Tuesday, November 2 None

Former Villanova pitcher Gordon Graceffo has seamlessly adapted to the pro game.

Courtesy of The Cardinal Nation

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

The Villanovan | 15

SPORTS

Athlete of the Week: Justin Covington

Matthew Ryan Staff Writer When running back Justin Covington arrived at Villanova six years ago, he didn’t have his sights set on rushing for a certain number of yards or scoring this many touchdowns. Instead, he said his goal was to become “the best football player I could be.”

But as Covington worked to achieve that goal, those stats that he wasn’t focusing on began to pile up, and on Oct. 16 against Albany, the graduate student entered an exclusive club at Villanova: the 2,000-yards rushing club.

“It felt good,” Covington said of the achievement. “I probably never thought about that really happening...It felt good just to be up there with all the other guys who rushed for 2,000 yards.”

Covington became just the 12th player in program history to earn the 2,000 rushing yards mark and the first since Covington’s former teammate Aaron Forbes in 2018. Sitting at 2,056 rushing yards and with three regular-season games remaining, entering the top-seven (more than 2,220 yards) isn’t out of the question for Covington.

The Bronx, New York native got to the Main Line in 2016, where he redshirted in his first year under head coach Andy Talley. As a redshirt freshman and sophomore, now with Mark Ferrante at the helm, Covington played behind Forbes, rushing for 551 yards and a touchdown across two seasons.

As a redshirt junior, Covington took over as the number one running back, rushing for 727 yards and three touchdowns in six games. His impressive play in limited time led to him being named to the all-CAA third team, but Covington’s new role as the team’s head running back wasn’t his only new title, as Covington was also named a captain.

Covington continued his stellar reputation on and off the field as a redshirt senior. In just four games during the COVID-19 shortened season, he ran for more than 300 yards and six touchdowns, earning all-CAA second team honors. Not only was he recognized for his leadership skills by being named a captain once again, but he gathered praise from the entire conference when he earned the CAA Football Chuck Boone Leadership and Excellence Award.

It’s no surprise that as a graduate student, Covington was once again named a team captain.

As one of the oldest players on the team and in his sixth year of college, Covington’s duty off the field is crystal clear.

“I know my role on the team, just making sure the young guys are good and making sure the team is good,” he said. “Almost always setting a good example, just being that guy people can look at, come to, for anything they need.”

In addition to his prominent leadership role, Covington continues to be a focal point of the offense for the 6-2 Wildcats.

He has run for 469 yards and three touchdowns in six games this season and will likely earn CAA

Graduate running back Justin Covington has ran for 2000 yards at Villanova.

Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

honors for the third consecutive season.

Coming from fast-moving New York to the more relaxed vibe at Villanova is definitely a new experience, but for Covington, it was a good one.

“I’ve been here six years, so it’s definitely like a second home to me,” he said. “The people I’ve met here have made this experience worthwhile.”

As his career at Villanova wraps up, one thing that Coving-

ton is taking away from his experience is the team’s motto, “tap the rock.”

“There’s definitely some ups and downs that we’ve had in the last six seasons,” he said.

“Some good ones, some bad ones.

But we just continue to fight, continue to love each other, work hard and this season’s kind of going good, so we’re not trying to be satisfied but just continue to make things happen.”

JMU to FBS: What it Means for CAA, ‘Nova

Tyler Moore Staff Writer After two national championships and 17 playoff appearances, James Madison is expected to leave the Colonial Athletic Association and the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) for the Sun Belt Conference of the Football Bowl Subdivision.

JMU currently sits at #3 in the FCS national poll with a 7-1 record coming off of a convincing win over Elon. The Dukes’ only loss came at home against Villanova in October, 28-27.

In the past few months the FBS has seen big shifts in conference realignment, beginning with the move of Texas and Oklahoma to the Southeastern Conference (SEC) from

the Big 12. This set off a chain reaction, as the Big 12 sought to replace Oklahoma and Texas with several schools from Group of Five conferences, resulting in a few conferences looking into having JMU make the jump up in division.

The Board of Visitors at James Madison held a special meeting on Friday to discuss the matter, and after a unanimous vote, they passed approval for a transition from FCS to FBS. “The fact that we’re able to take this action is a reflection of the strong reputation that James Madison University has built, and the strength of our athletics program,” Board of Voters rector Lara Major said during the meeting. “It’s been strategically built over the years, so I very much appreciate the hard work on behalf of the university.”

The JMU Board of Visitors unanimously approved a move to the FBS. Courtesy of the Daily News-Record

The next step in the process is a presentation to the Virginia General Assembly and their approval.

The Commonwealth of Virginia requires all public institutions to receive approval from the Assembly when changing divisions in sports, subdivisions included. The presentation will mainly focus on how the university will meet the financial requirements and needs of the FBS, but they are expected to move with ease as the committee meets this coming Friday.

Currently, the Dukes cannot offer more than 63 full scholarships, but the move to the FBS would mean 85 full scholarships. Upon leaving JMU is required to pay a $1 million buyout, plus an additional $250,000 to leave CAA football, but the media deals from joining the Sun Belt will make up for the losses.

No word has been released whether the move will be immediate or in a few years. Most teams that choose to move out of their conferences wait in order to prepare for the move, but it is speculated that it could be immediate.

As for the Wildcats, having JMU leave the conference allows greater opportunity for wins down the line, as prior to this season the ‘Cats lost five straight to the Dukes.

However, not all can be positive, as ‘Nova loses a fierce CAA rival and great opponent to help elevate the program into the FCS playoffs.

While the CAA is often respected as one of the best conferences in the FCS, talks have already begun about replacements.

“You’re seeing every conference in the country assessing itself as it relates to membership-related matters,” CAA Commissioner Joe D’Antonio said last week. “There’s a myriad of factors that could play into making those decisions, but ultimately in the end we’re going to make the best decisions that are going to have the most effective impact on our conference being not only sustainable but competitive as we move into the future.”

Possible additions to the conference include Monmouth, Howard and Hampton, who all already play in the FCS, but also Fairfield and UNC Greensboro. With the addition of more than just one team, the CAA is looking to create a north and south division format that most conferences have in order to reduce travel costs.

Conference realignment still seems to be a developing issue that will take place over the next four years as Oklahoma and Texas make their move in 2025, but the FCS remains questionable, as defending FCS champion and current first ranked Sam Houston is rumored to be making the jump as well.

Who knows, maybe ‘Nova will get the call one day, but a few more championships and consistent seasons will be needed. However, fans should not get their hopes up, as the ‘Cats denied the opportunity to be in a hypothetical FBS Big East conference back in the 1990s. The future is blurry, but opportunity is surely knocking.

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DINING SERVICES

Villanova Dining Services Friday, November 5 through Sunday, November 7

Special Olympic Athletes Saturday, November 6

Belle Air Terrace will open early at 9:00 AM for breakfast.

Dougherty Hall will close at 2:30 PM and will re-open at 4:15 PM. Please be mindful that Donahue and Dougherty will experience larger volumes this weekend.

Thanks for your patience and understanding!