The Villanovan | Volume 112, Issue 12: Date

WEDNESDAY APRIL 21, 2021 www.villanovan.com @thevillanovan

STUDENT-RUN SINCE 1916

VOLUME 112 | ISSUE 12

Chauvin NOVAdance Dance Marathon Raises Guilty Over $400,000 for Pediatric Cancer On All Charges Jack Birle Staff Writer

After a day of deliberation the jury found Derek Chauvin guilty on all three charges against him in the death of George Floyd.

Chauvin was found guilty on charges of second-degree murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter on April 20. Chauvin was the Police Officer who held Floyd in a restraint by placing his knee on Floyd’s shoulder or neck area. Floyd later died after being released from the restraint.

Chauvin will be sentenced in approximately eight weeks on all three charges.

According to The New York Times, the presumed sentence for second-degree murder is 12.5 years in Minnesota but the prosecution has requested a longer sentence.

President Joe Biden expressed support for the prosecution hours before the verdict was reached. Biden said to reporters at the White House that the evidence was “overwhelming” to him.

“[The Floyd family is] a good family, and they’re calling for peace and tranquillity, no matter what that verdict is,” said Biden. “I’m praying the verdict is the right verdict.”

Last week the defense was given their opportunity to present their case to the jury.

The main argument from the defense was that Floyd’s death was caused mostly or entirely by complications from drugs in Floyd’s system.

In criminal court the defense must show reasonable doubt to be acquitted, as the prosecution must show that the defense is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Following the previous week of prosecution witnesses, the defense was allowed to bring their own witness to testify.

Continued on p. 2

NOVAdance is a 24-hour dance marathon that raises money for children with cancer.

Courtesy of @nova_dance Instagram page

Elena Rouse Co-Culture Editor

Villanova’s campus was filled with the jitterbug this past weekend as the community came together for its annual NOVAdance.

During normal times, NOVAdance is a 24-hour dance marathon that raises money for children with cancer. The event was started in 2013 by the Sigma Nu fraternity and Tri Delta sorority in support of the Andrew McDonough B+ Foundation.

The event has continued to grow and raises hundreds of thousands of dollars each year.

“The B+ Foundation provides financial assistance to struggling families of children with cancer and funds groundbreaking research pro-

grams across the country,” the official NOVAdance website says. “For every dollar donated to The B+ Foundation, $0.95 goes towards family assistance and research.”

Groups across campus get involved to help raise money in the months leading up to the event through social media campaigns, and they are assigned a certain child, or ‘hero,’ for whom they raise money.

Due to the pandemic, the event could not happen last year and had to undergo changes for this semester.

Instead of one 24-hour dance marathon, NOVAdance was split up into different sections throughout campus, lasting about 12 hours. There were blow-up games that participants could play at the Oreo.

Mendel Field held the main

stage and was surrounded by raffles, food trucks and a tent full of B+ merchandise.

The area around the stage had games like cornhole and hula hoops set-up as community members walked around to support the event.

Members of the NOVAdance committees treated community goers with a choreographed dance on the field to a mix of songs as the onlookers moved joyously to the beat.

There were also stations set up off campus for different heroes and their respective groups to come out and support them. Each hero was adorned with an orange B+ cape for the event.

Because of COVID-19, many of the heroes could not come out and participate in the event due to

their compromised immune systems, but this did not stop the community from showing support. Instead of coming to dance, heroes arrived on campus throughout the day in their cars for a ‘drive-by.’ The Villanova community lined up along the brick pathway near Mendel Field, boisterously cheering as a hero was driven by. One hero, Frankie Knowles, smiled brightly as he waved from the backseat of his parents’ car.

Sophia Sanchez, a junior on the NOVAdance morale committee, shared her thoughts on the day.

“It’s awesome to see people come together despite Covid, and seeing the heroes’ positivity despite everything,” Sanchez said. “It really puts things in perspective.”

Continued on p. 9

2021 Commencement Speaker: Father Peter Cate McCusker

Co-Editor-in-Chief

Traditionally, a guest speaker would be invited to come to the University’s commencement ceremony to receive an honorary degree and address the graduates.

However, this year no one will be receiving an honorary degree and University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A, Ph.D. will be speaking

to the graduates instead.

This past Tuesday, The Villanovan was able to speak with Chrissy Quisenberry, Director of Presidential Initiatives and Events, to learn more about this year’s commencement ceremony.

“I worked with a focus group of seniors to hear about the parts of graduation that were important to them.

We are focusing on making a commencement ceremony that Continued on p. 2

Donohue will be giving this year’s 2021 Commencement Address.

Courtesy of Villanova University

First Doses of Moderna Vaccine Distributed to Students p. 3

Protests Continue Following Death of Daunte Wright p. 4

What the Return of Gillespie and Samuels Means for Villanova p. 6

Villanova Should Make COVID-19 Vaccination Mandatory p. 7

On Campus Vaccine Distribution: Too Little, Too Late p. 8

Muslim Students Association Hosts Ramadan Dinners p. 9

2021 Best Picture Lineup and Rankings p. 10

Return of The Met: Metropolitan Museum of Art Gala 2021 p. 11

Softball Sweeps Series With Providence p. 13

Men’s and Women’s Tennis Gain Momentum p. 15

2 | The Villanovan

News Opinion Culture Sports

1 5 9 13

PUBLIC SAFETY BLOTTER

VOL. 112 | ISS. 12 www.villanovan.com @thevillanovan

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

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

NEWS

Editor-in-Chief Editor-in-Chief Associate Editor-in-Chief Digital Editor News Editor News Editor Opinion Editor Opinion Editor Culture Editor Culture Editor Culture Editor Sports Editor Sports Editor Copy Desk Chief

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

Criminal Mischief / Theft by Unlawful Taking or Disposition April 6 Caughlin Hall An RA reported several exit signs had been stolen or damaged inside of a residence hall . The amount of the loss is unknown.

Liquor Underage / Public Drunkenness April 7 Good Counsel Hall A female resident student, under the age of 21, was found intoxicated in public and evaluated by Public Safety.

Sexual Assault April 16 Good Counsel Hall A student reported being sexually assaulted in a residence hall by a known student in November 2020.

Unauthorized Use of Motor Vehicles April 17 West Campus Grounds Three resident students, who did not have permission to do so, were found operating a University owned golf cart on west campus.

Criminal Trespass April 18 Maintenance Building A staff member reported two unknown males on the roof of the Facilities Management Building.

Walter Brogan Conference April 22 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Virtual Program of Biochemistry Distinguished Lecture Series 2021 April 22 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Virtual The College of Engineering’s 2021 Dean’s Awards Ceremony April 22 5:00 p.m.

Campus Green

Continued from p.1

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.

1102 1,113,868 32,504,832 143,305,177 Villanova University

United States

Nova Quizzo April 22 9:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.

Campus Green Crossroads: A Retreat for Seniors April 23 All Day Friday Jummah Prayers April 23 1:15 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

St. Rita of Cascia Community Room Philosophy Lecture Series April 16 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Virtual

One of the witnesses, Dr. David Fowler, was a former chief medical examiner for the state of Maryland. Fowler testified that Floyd died from complications from his heart condition and fentanyl and methamphetamine in his system.

“In my opinion, Mr. Floyd had a sudden cardiac arrhythmia... due to his atherosclerotic and hypertensive heart disease...during his restraint and subdual by the police,” Fowler said.

Fowler also said that carbon-monoxide coming from the police car may have been a contributing factor in Floyd’s death.

Another witness was Barry Brodd, a police use-of-force expert.

He testified that Chauvin’s use of restraint against Floyd was justified and that it should not be considered a deadly force.

“It’s easy to sit and judge, in an office, on an officer’s conduct,” Brodd said. “It’s more of a challenge to, again, put yourself in an officer’s shoes.”

In concluding its argument, the defense elected to not have Chauvin testify on the stand. Chauvin himself confirmed to the judge he would not testify.

“I will invoke my Fifth Amendment privilege today,” Chauvin said.

The Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution allows for citizens to not be forced to testify to a court unless under certain circumstances.

With Chauvin electing not to testify, the trial would be allowed to move to closing arguments for both the prosecution and defense.

CONFIRMED CUMULATIVE CASES AS OF 8:00 P.M. TUESDAY, APRIL 6

Pennsylvania

CAMPUS CALENDAR Intervarsity Bible Study April 21 7:30 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

St. Rita of Cascia Community Room

COVID-19 TRACKER

RUIBAL RUIBonding Event April 23 5:00 p.m.

Campus Green VTV & CAT Present: The Villy’s Student Film Festival April 23 8:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

The Oreo Be Kind to your Mind Virtual 5K Run April 24 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

The Oreo SBI Application Deadline April 25 Virtual

Amid waiting for a decision from the jury, cities like New York City are preparing for protests, riots and violence on the same scale of what was seen last summer.

According to Fox News, the New York Police Department has been preparing for the prospect of protests and violence since last year. NYPD Commissioner Dermot Shea spoke to these preparations at a press conference unrelated to the Chauvin trial or any potential fallout from the trial.

“We certainly have a tough week or two up ahead,” Shea said.

“A lot is going to obviously hinge on the outcome in Minneapolis.”

Experts who have been following the trial are unable to come to consensus on how the jury will rule. Just like with the days following the election last year, America waits.

Chauvin was found guilty on all three counts.

Courtesy of Reuters

Worldwide

CONFIRMED VACCINATIONS AS OF 8:00 P.M. TUESDAY, APRIL 6

132,321,628 5,559,900 United States

Pennsylvania

2021 Commencement

Continued from p.1 would be meaningful to the graduates” Quisenberry said. “The seniors really didn’t feel like (the honorary degree part of the ceremony) was important to them. When we spoke about having a commencement speaker, they said that they would like someone who knows them, and what they’ve been through here. The feeling was that they would rather just have Father Peter speak to them, so we went with that. We felt like having someone come from outside to speak with them just wasn’t what they wanted this year.”

Due to the expansion of Pennsylvania’s COVID guidelines, the graduating students are allowed to have two guests attend the commencement ceremony. The ceremony will be held outside at the stadium, with the graduates on the turf and their guests sitting in the bleachers, safely distanced from each other.

The graduates were given the opportunity to choose to attend the ceremony either in-person or virtually.

Right now, about 1675 graduating undergraduates have chosen to attend the ceremony in-person. The other graduates and family members who cannot attend in-person will have the opportunity to watch the commencement via livestream.

“We’re making the livestream a full production, with multiple cameras, so if someone is watching it at home they may even have a better seat than someone who is actually there in person,” Quisenberry said, explaining what commencement will look like for students who chose to participate virtually. “If you’re watching it from home

as a graduate, and you selected that you want to participate virtually, when you ‘walk across the stage,’ the screens will show your picture, your quote, and your name. For the undergraduates, there were about 60 students who chose that option.”

Although the focus is on the graduating students, the University has also worked hard to incorporate the families.

“We’re working with hotels so if they’re streaming the ceremony we’re sending signs and things so they can have a watch party. We’re also working with the Bartley print center so students can write a personalized letter of thanks to their families” Quisenberry said. “Students can also order a celebration box, with a Villanova garden flag, confetti popper, and picture frame, to be shipped to their family.”

Past Villanova graduates.

Courtesy of Villanova University

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

The Villanovan | 3

NEWS

First Doses of Moderna Vaccine Distributed to Students final weeks of the semester.

Isabella Bruck, a sophoSarah Wisniewski more in the business school, was Co-News Editor one of the lucky students to receive her first dose of the vaccine

On Friday, Apr. 16, a limlast Friday. Bruck is an internaited number of students, faculty tional student who currently lives and staff were able to receive in Germany and specifically took their first dose of the Moderna advantage of this opportunity due COVID-19 vaccine. The Univerto the lack of distribution within sity partnered with Rite Aid to her home country. She shared secure the vaccines and administhat her parents are still unable to tered the first doses in the Finner- secure an appointment in Germaan Pavilion. An email was sent out ny, so when the email was sent out, in the late afternoon on Monday, Bruck immediately signed up.

Apr. 12, with a link for students

“Signing up was very easy and faculty to sign up for an apand accessible,” Bruck said. “The pointment. process was the same as signing

In the same email, students up for surveillance testing, so I and faculty were advised to not was familiar with the system and share the link for appointments was able to sign up quickly. I was with any other employee or family scared they would run out of apmember. The email encouraged pointments, so I signed up as soon individuals not affiliated with the as the email had been sent to us.”

University to make vaccine ap Those who received their pointments at other sites in the first dose on campus were only surrounding area. As of Apr. 13, able to come back on Tuesday, all Pennsylvania adults became May 18, for their second dose. eligible for the vaccine.

The University emphasized that

The email also reminded appointments would not be able to all individuals who are vaccinated be rescheduled or changed. that they are not fully protected

Despite being thankful that until two weeks after their second she was able to secure an apvaccination. More so, the Unipointment for her vaccine, Bruck versity asked that even vaccinatexpressed that as an international ed individuals continue to wear student she wished there were masks, maintain physical distance more options for students and and wash their hands to continue faculty to choose for their second to keep the community safe for the appointments.

“I am extremely grateful to be able to receive the vaccine on campus before I return home to Germany, however, I did have to find a friend to stay with for the extra week before returning home,” Bruck said. “Other than that small obstacle, everything else was easy. That is the only downside of getting the vaccine this way.”

Marcella Krautzel, a freshman in the business school, also received her vaccine through the University. She explained that the entire process only took about 20 to 25 minutes. Krautzel explained that the University only required students and faculty to show a photo ID and insurance card in order to receive the vaccine the day of.

“I arrived at the Finneran

Pavilion and got my shot quickly after being checked in,” the freshman said. “I sat in a chair after the shot for 15 minutes and then went about my day. It was easy and convenient.”

Krautzel shared that she did have symptoms after receving the shot, but was still grateful to be vaccined.

“My arm hurt for about two days after the shot,” Krautzel said. “I alsos had a fever and headache. It is worth it though to be vaccinaated for summer.”

The day went as planned and the University is excited to announce that a combined 1,500 Villanovans, including faculty, students and staff, have been vaccinated within the past two weeks through the partnership with Rite Aid.

Sophomore University student receives her vaccine at the Finn.

Courtesy of The Villanovan

Class of 2025 Celebrates Accepted Students Day Garrett Whitton Staff Writer

Look out for any Blue Key Society members walking backward during their growing amount of tours after a long and unanticipated pause from COVID-19.

Though tours are back, the University and the Society were unable to host an in-person Admitted Students Day. Usually, this day helps high schoolers and their parents see that the University is the best college for them. This year, the admissions office and student organizations did things a little differently.

On Apr. 10, the University released a video to every high school student around the country who was accepted. The 40-minute video offered fun facts about the admitted class’s demographics, explained the academic excellence of current students, gave a flyover tour of campus and emphasized what it means to be a part of the Villanova Community.

After opening the YouTube link sent to their emails, a blue graphic showing the year “2025” welcomed the admitted students to a day dedicated to them. This year, the University set a record with more than 24,400 applications for a target class size of only 1,675 students. This fact was shared to evoke pride in those who earned a spot. The following graphics showed that applications had been received from all 50 states, Washington D.C., the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Guam and 99 other countries.

The University ended up admitting students from 48 states and 57 countries.

After a brief slideshow demonstrating the excitement of

those accepted, the graphics switched the focus to them and praised their resumes. Sixty-two percent of the admitted students are in the top five percent of their high school classes, 83% are in the top 10% and 91% are in the top 15%. The University is proud to have received such an impressive applicant pool. All graphics repeated themselves until the countdown hit zero.

Once the clock ran out of time, a video of Will D. Cat, the University’s mascot, appeared. He led the camera through a group of students who were holding up signs congratulating the admitted students.

At the end of his walk, he faded out in a transition to a video frame showing University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A., Ph.D. After he introduced himself, Donohue quoted St. Augustine encouraging the students to “become what you are not yet.”

“It brings to mind what Villanova will do for those who join our community,” Donohue said.

He made sure to emphasize the importance of “community” throughout his speech and told students they would become true Villanovans by practicing the University’s three pillars of Unity, Truth and Love.

Donohue then talked about who and what students will encounter around campus over their four years and gave them hope for what comes after graduating.

“Villanovans believe that the best way to improve one’s life is to improve the lives of others,” Donohue said.

He ended his address to the students by mentioning they will always have a home at the University if they choose to attend, and they should never hesitate to be part of the

community. He encouraged students and their parents to ask questions, explore what the University has to offer and make the most of what the unusual virtual format provides.

The next individual students heard from was Caitlin O’Leary, a senior sociology major from Clayton, California. She gave an outline for the rest of the video, saying that everyone will meet some faculty members and students. The clip of O’Leary faded away, and a title screen appeared which read, “Are you a Villanovan?”

The audience then heard Jose Garcia tell his acceptance story.

“I just remember knowing that whatever I do here, not only academically, but also extracurricularly, I will, as a person, I will grow my leadership skills, and I would be successful no matter what,” the sophomore accounting major said.

O’Leary reappeared and shared her story. Then, Graciela Petrelli, a sophomore who works for the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, also shared her story and spoke about how she has experienced community on campus.

“Community is one of the big things, one of the big pillars at Villanova, but you don’t really understand it until you get here,” Petrelli said.

She admired how the University told her it would be an honor for them to have a student like her, whereas other schools seemed to convey that it would be an honor for her to attend a school like theirs.

“It was the first place where I felt truly welcomed,” she said.

The video then cut to a montage of others that had been recorded before the pandemic. A voiceover explained what makes someone a Villanovan, listed accomplishments

of what students have done after graduating, described the University’s location and said that there are more than 125,000 alumni worldwide that are eager to help students with their careers.

Next, another title screen appeared that read, “Academic Excellence,” and Petrelli came back. She explained her involvement on campus and said that, since she works for the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, she hears what many students are doing. This helps her understand the academic excellence exhibited around campus. The video then showed University Provost, Patrick Maggitti, Ph.D. He congratulated the students on being accepted, explained his role and made sure the admitted students know that they will be supported outside of the classroom by faculty and staff.

“Together, we make sure our students receive an excellent and transformative academic experience,” Maggitti said.

After he finished speaking, another title screen appeared that said, “Your New Home.” It was followed by a flyover tour of the University’s campus, showing student life and different buildings. It ended with footage from inside the Finneran Pavilion.

The final title screen showed a frame that read, “The Villanova Community.” In this section of the video, Garcia and O’Leary shared how they were accepted into the community right when they stepped foot on campus.

Through different clubs, organizations, classes and dorm life, they made many friends and immediately fell in love with the choice they had made in attending Villanova University.

4 | The Villanovan

NEWS

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

Protests Continue Following the Death of Daunte Wright Lydia McFarlane Staff Writer

On Sunday, April 11, the United States had another instance of racial injustice when unarmed Daunte Wright, a 20-yearold black man, was shot and killed in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota.

The shooting happened during the ongoing trial of Derek Chauvin, the former police officer charged with the murder of George Floyd in May of 2020.

Brooklyn Center is only about 10 miles away from Minneapolis, where the trial is being held.

Tensions in Minneapolis and the surrounding areas have been high for the past few weeks during the trial.

Wright was stopped by police at a traffic stop for having an air freshener dangling in his rearview mirror, which is a traffic violation in Minnesota. Upon stopping Wright, police found that he had an outstanding warrant. When police attempted to arrest him, Wright tried to get back in his car. Following a brief skirmish, officer Kimberly Potter fired her gun, shooting Wright in the chest. Wright drove a few blocks and crashed his car. While his girlfriend was taken to the hospital following the crash with non-life-threatening injuries, Wright was pronounced dead at the scene.

Wright was the father of an almost two-year-old son. Fortyeight-year-old Potter has been a part of the Brooklyn Center Police Department since 1995. The day following Wright’s death, Potter

claimed to have accidentally shot him, mistaking her taser for her gun. Many are questioning how a trained officer could mistake a gun for a taser. Their weights are different, and they are intentionally placed on opposite sides of the police officer’s bodies. The Black Lives Matter movement put it simply, saying “There are no accidents in police terror and white supremacy. We say his name.

Daunte Wright. We will continue to remain dedicated in the fight against white supremacy and state-sanctioned violence against Black people.”

On April 14, Potter was charged with second degree manslaughter. Potter was placed on standard administrative leave before resigning from her position later in the week. In response to the pending trial and open case on Wright’s death, his family hired civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump, who has represented many families of Black men and women who lost their lives as a result of police brutality in the past.

“Daunte Wright did get a charge and an arrest of the officer that shot and killed him,” Crump said. “So we are making progress, and I want to encourage those protesting — those young people, those activists — that you are making a difference.”

Unlike other cases of police brutality, Potter was arrested and charged immediately after the incident. Shortly after the incident, body cam footage from Potter was released. It shows the events as they happened and highlights words from Potter herself. She is heard saying as Wright seems to

resist arrest, “I’ll tase you! I’ll tase you!” Immediately after firing into the car, she is heard saying, “I just shot him.”

On April 13, Wright’s family joined the family of George Floyd in a press conference to express their grief.

“He had a smile that was angelic, he lit up the room, he was funny,” his mother said tearfully. “He was an amazing son. He will truly be missed by everybody.”

Although she acknowledged and embraced the national outrage regarding her son’s death, she encouraged protestors to remain peaceful. As expected, protests broke out nationwide. The Black Lives Matter movement has another name to add to a list of Black lives lost that is seemingly endless. In Minneapolis and

the surrounding areas, a curfew was put in place in an attempt to prevent violence and danger. The protests in Minneapolis on the Monday night following Wright’s death resulted in more than 40 arrests. There have been cases of looting and violence from the protests over the last few nights.

However, many peaceful protestors have been met with heavily armed and ready police forces. Protestors are demanding more serious charges against Potter. They also demanded for the firing of Brooklyn Center’s police chief Tim Gannon, who resigned later in the week.

Protestors, activists and citizens alike are calling for change as the nation deals with the aftermath of another Black life lost to a minor offense.

Protesters marched in Portland following the death of Wright.

Courtesy of Getty Images, Nathan Howard

Cultural Studies Program Hosts Former Black Panthers no one else was going to. He explained that in the mid-1960s, African-Americans were “marginalized, disregarded and unserved.”

While never a member of

On Tuesday, April 13, the the BPP herself, Kioni-Sadiki seeks University’s Cultural Studies Program sponsored a panel discussion to educate people on the legacy that the Party has left. The BPP with former Black Panther Party created more than 60 survival pro(BPP) members and other Black grams, including free breakfast for activists. Panelists Diane Fujino, children in school and free healthMatef Harmachis, Dequi Kicare clinics. She said that many oni-Sadiki and Hank Jones spoke social programs Americans have about their book, “Black Power today were first created by the ParAfterlives: The Enduring Significance of the Black Panther Party,” ty and that no one had heard of which is available to order through sickle cell anemia until research by the Panthers. The movement also Haymarket Books. The book paved the way for lead testing. serves as a helpful timeline of the

Multiple panel members Black Power movement, from the made sure to point out the importfounding of the Black Panther ant role that women played within Party until present-day. the BPP.

Jones, a former member

“The role of women in of the BPP, explained how the the Black Panther Party is downbrutal murder of Emmett Till in played,” Jones said. “They were 1955 propelled him into action. the backbone of the party.”

He joined the Student Nonvi Acknowledging that men olent Coordinating Committee are usually the face of the Party, before joining the BPP at age 27.

Jones went on to say that “we [the While most men joined at age 17 men] were too busy dodging bulto 23, Jones was already married lets and on the run and locked up. with three kids when he became The women kept the party funca member. He was drawn to the Party because it “went from theory tioning”.

Kioni-Sadiki noted how to practice.” Jones criticized the way in which the media’s attention words like ‘radical’ and ‘extremist’ distort the reality of freedom to the Party only focused on the fighting. fact that it was an armed group.

“We’re taught there’s someHe stressed how Party members thing wrong with being radical,” had to defend themselves because Lauren Kourey Staff Writer

she said. “But you can call me radical anytime you want. ‘Radical’ means getting to the root of the problem.”

Her husband and former Panther, Sekou Odinga, served 33 years as a political prisoner. While she celebrated his release in 2014, many former Panthers are still in or have died in prison. Harmachis noted how Chip Fitzgerald died after 51 years in prison.

In 1969, J. Edgar Hoover, the former director of the FBI, deemed the BPP as the largest internal threat to the country.

Multiple panel members remarked how, once Hoover made this public statement, the Panthers had targets on their backs.

“We were much more than just an armed group,” Jones said.

“We were a reaction to police violence.”

Jones spoke of how integral the Party was to the safety of the Black community in these cities.

In addition to the various survival programs created by the Party, they would also protect the elderly people in their communities by escorting them to run errands.

Jones reminded audience members that there is still work to be done in the United States for African Americans to truly feel safe. Jones and Sadiki-Kioni brought up the worrying rise of fascism in the country, which can

be explained by the “systems being threatened”--the systems in question being the countless American institutions that perpetuate systemic racism. He closed the discussion by saying, “This is not a free country. Not even close.”

To learn more about the BPP and its legacy, Harmachis recommends Lee Lew-Lee’s documentary, “All Power to the People,” which is available for free on Youtube. For additional educational resources about Black oppression and history, the panel members suggest the following: zinnedproject.org, rethinkingschools.org, abolitionistteachingnetwork.org, freedomarchives.org and the Schomburg Library for Research and Black Culture.

Women played an important role in the BPP. Courtesy of Getty Images, David Fenton

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

The Villanovan | 5

OPINION

OPINION

Daunte Wright and the Blatant Need for Police Reform Zoe Kim Staff Writer

Fourteen miles from where George Floyd was killed in Minneapolis after being pinned by an officer for nearly 10 minutes, a 20-year-old Black man was fatally shot by an officer for a traffic violation. Sunday afternoon, Daunte Wright was driving to a car wash with his girlfriend and was pulled over by officer Kimberly Potter for driving with an expired license plate and for having an air freshener hanging on his rear-view mirror. The officers later discovered that there was a “gross misdemeanor warrant” for his arrest. Minutes later, gunshots rang out, and Wright’s body was left on the streets of the Minneapolis suburb for six hours.

Hours later, protestors chanted, with people throwing bricks and cans at officers outside the Brooklyn Center Police Department, angered by the death of another Black man.

The polwice declared the gathering unlawful and tried to repel the crowd with tear gas and flash-bang grenades.

The protests continued into Monday morning and resumed that night.

“He [Daunte] was a great kid,” his father, Aubrey Wright, said in an interview with the Washington Post. “He was a normal kid. He was never in serious trouble. He enjoyed spending time with his two-year-old son. He loved his son.”

Daunte worked retail and restaurant jobs to support his twoyear-old son. He dropped out of high school because of his learning disability, but he planned to return to school

months in prison.

“Daunte Wright is another Oscar Grant,” Cephus Johnson, an uncle of Grant, tweeted Monday.

“We have seen this before and know exactly how it will play out.”

An investigation is underway.

President Joe Biden has called for “peace and calm” Monday in the wake of the tragic shooting. He said to reporters in the Oval Office, “The question is, was it an accident? Was it intentional? That remains to be determined by a full-blown investigation.”

A thorough investigation is necessary to understand the events that led to Wright’s death. How can a veteran officer of 26- years can mistake her 34-ounce firearm for her eight-ounce Taser?

Axon, the company behind The family of Daunte Wright mourns his loss and expresses their anger over his death.

Courtesy of Victor J. Blue/The New York Times Taser energy weapons, said the devices have a different grip and are to receive his GED. tie Wright, his mother, breaking into

Police Chief Tim Gannon tears, said, “I never imagined that this lighter than firearms. In a statement, said Officer Potter, a 26-year veteran would have happened.” She recount- an Axon spokesperson said that the Tasers are offered in yellow to differof the department, expected to fire ed her last phone call with her son entiate them from guns. Regardless of her Taser but instead had an “acciafter officer Potter pulled him over. whether or not Potter “accidentally” dental discharge” from her gun. He

“That was the last time I’ve killed Wright using her firearm rather also played an unedited clip of the heard from my son,” she said. “And than her Taser, it follows a pattern of body camera video where officer I’ve had no explanation since then.” police unnecessarily shooting black Potter yells, “Taser! Taser! Taser!”

The fatal shooting of Wright civilians when they resist arrest or are shooting Dante with her firearm and by police has drawn comparisons to in their cars. then exclaiming, “Holy sh-t. I just the 2009 killing of Oscar Grant in

Potter’s “accident” cost shot him.” Officer Potter and Chief Oakland, California. Twenty-twoWright his life and cannot be repeatGannon have resigned after the secyear-old Grant was shot and killed ed.

Reform is needed— justice is ond night of protests in Minneapolis. by transit police officer Johannes needed for Wright’s mother, two-year In their first press conference Mehserle while being pinned to the old son and Black Minnesotans and this Tuesday, Wright’s parents exground. Attorneys for Mehserle Americans.

Police seek to create safety pressed grief and anger for their son similarly said the officer had mistaken by identifying who is dangerous and outside the Hennepin County Court- his handgun for his Taser gun. He then reacting with violence. As long as house, where the trial of fired officer was found not guilty on charges of Derek Chauvin is closing. They called second-degree murder and voluntary there is no reform, police will be one for action, questioning why the officer manslaughter and convicted of invol- second away from assaulting or killing a civilian who is viewed as a threat. used force after a traffic violation. Ka- untary manslaughter. He served 11

Foxboro Forever: Thanks For Everything, Jules Brendan Donoghue Staff Writer

Coming out of halftime of Super Bowl LI, Julian Edelman placed his helmet on the shelf behind the New England Patriots bench and took a seat next to quarterback Tom Brady. With the second half moments away, New England fans across the country were demoralized, and it’s likely that most of the players were too. Down 21-3, the Patriots had played perhaps their worst half of the season on the biggest stage. Slightly turning his head towards Brady, but never looking away from the field, Edelman predicted how he hoped the second half would go: “Let’s go baby.

It’s gonna be a helluva story.” It just so happened that Edelman’s prediction came true. Mounting the largest comeback in Super Bowl history, the Patriots went on to beat the Atlanta Falcons 34-28 and distinguish themselves yet again as the NFL’s cream of the crop. With Edelman announcing his retirement from the National Football League via social media on Monday, April 12, his Super Bowl prediction takes on a whole new meaning.

Edelman’s career was, simply put, a helluva story.

Drafted in the seventh round of the 2009 NFL Draft by the Patriots, Edelman was Kent State Univer-

sity’s scrappy starting quarterback. A three-year starter at the position, Edelman had never played a snap at wide receiver before joining the Patriots.

With Brady under center and in the prime of his career, Edelman demonstrated his value on special teams (and even defense a few times) ultimately winding up at wide receiver. Twelve years, three Super Bowl Championships and one Super Bowl MVP later, Edelman walks away from the game as one of the most successful postseason players in NFL history and one of the most beloved Patriots players to ever put on the uniform.

A few months ago, I wrote a similar article commemorating Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia after news of his retirement earlier this year. If there was ever a Pedroia-equivalent in Boston’s storied sports culture, it was Edelman.

Nicknamed “the Squirrel” due his elusiveness, Edelman, like Pedroia, connected with his fans and his adopted city in a way few professional athletes are ever able to do. Whether it was the iconic “double pass” in the 2014 Divisional Playoff Game, or his game-winning touchdown catch in Super Bowl XLIX, or his miraculous shoestring catch in Super Bowl LI that kept the comeback alive (still not sure how he managed that one), or his MVP performance in Super Bowl LIII, Edelman represented the New

Julian Edelman retires from the NFL after 11 seasons.

Courtesy of Greg M. Cooper/USA Today Sports

England Patriots on the biggest stages in a way every fan should be proud of: show up, make no excuses, execute, celebrate and then do it again.

When NFL fans think of the New England Patriots dynasty, they will undoubtedly think of Bill Belichick and Brady, and for good reason.

But as Brady’s own wife will tell you, he cannot throw the ball and catch the ball at the same time. Brady’s success was intricately tied to his receivers, and he always seemed to have a unique connection with them. The tail end of Brady’s Patriots tenure was marked by connections to Rob Gronkowski and Edelman. Gronkowski was always good for the highlight-reel play, reeling in passes with one hand or shoving would-be tacklers out of

the way as he barreled towards the end zone. When Brady needed a surefire connection in a big spot, however, it was Edelman’s number that was always called. Third down? Fourth down? Brady to Edelman. You could set your watch to it. Defenses knew it, the referees knew it and everyone in the stadium and watching at home knew it, but it never seemed to matter. Number 12 to number 11 in the biggest spots on the biggest stages.

It has been a privilege to grow up a Patriots fan. Edelman was a cornerstone of those playoff runs and championship teams. Nothing I could write could possibly capture what he meant to me, to my friends and family, to the city of Boston and to the entire region of New England.

6 | The Villanovan

Wednesday, April 21, 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.

Opinion: The Hopeful Return of Gillespie and Samuels Jacob Artz Staff Writer

Many members of the Villanova community wondered if the Sweet 16 loss to Baylor would be the last time Jermaine Samuels wore the Villanova jersey. People wondered if this game would be the last image of Collin Gillespie cheering on his team with fellow senior Dhamir Cosby-Roundtree, sporting a Villanova mask on the second level at Butler Fieldhouse.

Would the last Villanova basketball memory of him be when he grabbed at his leg in pain while jumping off the court at the Finneran Pavilion on senior night?

The answer is an emphatic no, as both Samuels and Gillespie announced on their separate Instagram accounts on Tuesday night that they will be utilizing the extra year of eligibility granted to them by the NCAA due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I have decided to come back for another season,” Samuels said in his statement. “There’s nothing like playing Villanova basketball, wearing that V on my chest and playing for my teammates and coaches.”

Gillespie echoed similar sentiments.

“I am going to take advantage of this extra year and come back to Villanova!” he said. “It is going to be a blessing to put the Villanova uniform on for one last year and play for such an amazing University!”

This is so important because both of these players are proven leaders and very talented on the floor. From a Jay Wright-coached team, I would expect nothing less,

guys are more open. On defense, they are both constantly diving for loose balls and coming in from behind to get the pickpocket steal.

Sometimes, they don’t always get the steal, like when Samuels slid from the three point to under the basket against Butler earlier in the year. It may have looked funny, but it is a testament to the fact that he plays hard and well on defense, which is a testament to his character and tenacity.

The expectations for this team next year have been raised with Gillespie and Samuels coming back. The void of leadership would have been filled if they chose not to come back. and the team would have a tougher time in the beginning of the season while figuring out who the go to guys are. With their return, it is known that Collin is an all-around great player who can lead the team like a general on the floor with his crisp passing, deadly deep shooting and crafty finishes at the rim. Samuels has proven to be an alpha male when he needs to be, like in the Providence game at the end of the Gillespie and Samuels celebrate a one point victory over number one ranked Kansas. season when both Justin Moore and Courtesy of Charles Fox/ Philadelphia Inquirer Gillespie were out, and he is relentless on defense. Also, their leadercollectively to win games. This is but people who follow sports more why Villanova has the ability to win ship will help the underclassmen closely see there are many top find their roles and have timely the grind-it-out defensive type of players who only care about the contributions. game when the shots aren’t falling, SportsCenter highlights of drain Villanova made the Sweet ing triples or putting someone on a the winning score doesn’t break 16 without its best player and gave 50 or its special shooting to score poster when they dunk. However, Baylor a true scare, unlike the rest in the mid 80s with several three these aren’t the plays that create of the teams in their last three pointers isn’t working. In addiwins and unite a team. Often, games before winning it all. The tion, the effort and hustle that isn’t players are lackadaisical or simply team had a seven-point halftime do not want to play defense, which reflected on the stat sheet is more lead, and a team run by Gillespie important to establish the Villanohurts teams because they need all would not have allowed the offense va basketball mentality and unite five players on the floor to be on to commit 10 second-half turnovers the team for a 110% effort on both the same page. and basically give Baylor the game. sides of the floor.

This is exactly what Gilles The time is now. Let’s run it

On offense, these leaders pie and Samuels emulate every back and savor a national champidemonstrate consistent extra passgame. They always have the team onship next April. ing and unselfishness when other focused on what needs to be done

Letter From the Editors: Stay Strong, ‘Cats

This semester has been, for better or worse, unforgettable. We started the Spring semester off with an unprecedented spike in COVID cases on campus, followed by a lot of uncertainty as to whether or not we could continue our semester here. Eventually cases tapered off because of the student body’s dedication to putting community first and prioritizing our health and place on campus. Now, those who are eligible are simply sequestered to being frequently selected for surveillance testing. However, it is a small price to pay, spitting in a tiny tube, if it means having the security of staying on campus for the entirety of the semester.

Months after the dramatic spike, students are now dealing

with the repercussions of the lack of mental breaks throughout the semester. Although the “Working Breaks” were well intentioned, they were not effective in giving students a decent break. In some instances, professors did not honor the regulations the Working Breaks were intended to implement, scheduling minor quizzes during those days. As a result, burnout has permeated the general atmosphere around campus, with many students struggling to maintain the level of motivation that is necessary to get through finals. It is unfortunate that due to the lack of proper scheduling, students must deal with burnout while trying to make the most of their spring on campus. For some, this is the first

time that students are experiencing this time of year on campus, yet there is an intangible exhaustion throughout the student body.

This raises the question of whether or not the University has done enough to support student’s mental health throughout these trying times. The pandemic is nothing new to us at this point, but a demanding schedule and disproportionate time allotted for breaks is. It is worth noting that going to college amidst a pandemic, one that has brought tragedy, pain, and hardship globally, seemingly should warrant more breaks than less. While the University perhaps was well-intentioned, the administration should have learned from the fall semester that working

breaks would not suffice.

This late in the semester, it seems unlikely that new, substantive efforts to support student morale will be implemented.

Instead, students are left to individually make an effort to support themselves and create time for relaxation. It is at the utmost importance that we as a community actively promote an environment on campus that seeks to foster support for our peers.

If we have learned anything this semester, it is that we are capable of cultivating an environment of support within the student body that strengthens the overall atmosphere of campus. At least we can, hopefully, look forward to next year with a normal break schedule.

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

The Villanovan | 7

OPINION

Opinion: College Campuses and Mandatory Vaccines Ava Lundell Staff Writer

After Rutgers University announced it would require students to receive a COVID-19 vaccine to return to campus in the fall, more than a dozen residential colleges followed suit, according to a recent NPR report. Among these colleges are Duke University, University of Notre Dame, Brown University, Cornell University and Northeastern University. Therefore, the question must be asked: Should Villanova also require a COVID-19 vaccine to return to campus? I would argue “yes” to this question.

Residential campuses have proven to be effective breeding grounds for COVID-19. Dorms, off-campus living and parties enable all kinds of viruses to travel quickly through college community populations. For example, James Madison University, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and many other higher education institutions made the decision to send college students home due to a rise in positive COVID-19 cases.

Villanova has also experienced a surge in cases that has made administrators consider sending students home at the beginning of this semester. This high risk of infection on college campuses

necessitates the mandate that all students be vaccinated to ensure the health and safety of the community to include those whose medical exemptions prevent them from being vaccinated. Mandatory vaccination against other diseases has already been implemented at many universities, especially to protect particularly vulnerable students. For example, according to a recent NPR report, in a survey of about 100 four-year institutions, nearly all require at least one vaccine for enrollment (such as the MMR vaccine which protects against measles, mumps and rubella). Evidently, mandatory vaccination already exists at universities due to the high probability of viral spread at these institutions. Why not add the COVID-19 vaccine?

Further, the rapid proliferation of viruses, such as COVID-19, on university campuses does not simply endanger college communities. Viruses generated on college campuses can also quickly impact the surrounding community, as well as families back home. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) acknowledged this link between higher education institutions and the surrounding community when issuing guidelines for the opening of colleges during the pandemic. The CDC highlighted the importance of universities im-

plementing policies “while adjusting to meet the unique needs and circumstances of the IHE [Institute of Higher Education] and local community.”

For example, the University is located on the Main Line, a highly populated suburban area of Philadelphia. Villanova students shop at the same stores and eat at the same restaurants as Main Line residents. Therefore, an infected Villanova student could easily spread COVID-19 to non-college residents of the larger community.

Additionally, when students go home to visit their families, there is the chance that the student will infect family members and friends around the country.

Therefore, requiring vaccination would not only benefit college communities but also the larger local communities as well as families back home.

I understand that not all students feel comfortable receiving the vaccine. However, I do not think this fact should deter the administration from issuing a vaccine mandate. Those with concerns regarding the vaccine for reasons other than medical exemptions (whether that be religious hesitations, philosophical beliefs, etc.) are entitled to their opinions. The University can develop processes for such concerns to be expressed on an individual basis. For exam-

ple, the University could allow unvaccinated students to continue with online learning opportunities.

According to an American Council on Education issue brief, universities could also consider incentives for students to receive the vaccine, such as discounted athletic competition tickets for family and friends.

However, individual concerns should be addressed on an individual level with the institution. Public health issues need to be addressed at the institutional level.

I think the University has already taken an important step in the right direction by becoming a vaccine distribution site. Now that the vaccine is available to all students, it is important to strategize and implement a public health campaign to promote and relay factual information on the efficacy and safety of COVID-19 vaccines.

These outreach programs could be as simple as signs around campus with quotes from students who have already received the vaccine or posting facts about the vaccine on social media. By requiring that students are vaccinated for the fall 2021 semester, the University would promote the health and safety of its students as well as the broader community, upholding the Catholic Social Teaching principle of the Common Good.

Georgia Voting Laws and Their Impacts

this front and is actually fairly similar to voting provisions in states such as New York or California. In addition, poll workers are explicitly allowed to

Georgia has been one of the provide water at these polling places to main focuses of the political world voters which makes this claim rather in the past several months, whether perplexing. it was the narrow voting margins for This bill has also been dawned both the presidential and senate runoff as Jim Crow 2.0, or “Jim Eagle,” as elections, to former President Donald President Biden referred to it during Trump making baseless claims that his first press conference. This claim is he had won the state. In an effort to not only baseless, but is itself a lie that ensure that future elections are more has racial undertones at its surface. secure and adhere to the principle of This criticism is largely stemmed fairness, Governor Brian Kemp signed from the fact that this new voting act into law The Election Integrity Act requires absentee voters to show proof of 2021 on March 25. However, this of identification, which the media and bill has been met with much scrutiny, President Biden feel will dispropornot only from most mainstream media tionately affect African Americans. platforms, but also from President Joe There is not significant evidence Biden. He, along with many media that shows that it is harder for Afrioutlets, disregarded the facts and can Americans to obtain an I.D. at instead promoted the false narrative all, so this notion quickly falls apart. of how it equates to voter suppression Also, even if a person does not have and facilitates active racial discrimia driver’s license, that person can still nation. As the days passed, these lies provide the number of a state-issued have been gradually debunked, but it voting identification card (which is free may be too late, as the consequences in Georgia) or the last four digits of his of these fabrications may have already or her social security number. taken firm root in our country.

This leads me to wonder: The overarching lie that has What exactly is racist about this? been promulgated about this bill is President Biden –– having been alive that it is a piece of legislation designed during the tailend of the Jim Crow as a means of voter suppression to the Era –– should have an understanding people of Georgia. One point that has of these disgusting laws that activebeen heavily perpetuated is the idea ly discriminated against Americans that this law prohibits giving food and based solely on the color of one’s water to people waiting in line to vote. skin. However, this does not seem to In reality, this law explicitly makes it be the case as he compares Jim Crow illegal for people to give money or Laws to this voting law. Comparing gifts such as food and water to voters this bill that has measures in place within 150 feet of a polling building to which affect all voters for the sake of prevent outside influence for a partic- increased election security to laws that ular candidate. Outside of this area, it explicitly sought to discriminate peois perfectly legal for people to supply ple on account of their race is, in my food and water as this law does not mind, disrespectful and a comparison assert any additional restrictions on that should not be made by anyone –– Steven Makino Staff Writer

GOP Leaders in Georgia signed legislation what impacts voting rights in Georgia.

Courtesy of Megan Varner/Getty Images

much less the president of the United States.

Aside from the logistics of the bill being overtly lied about in the media, the American people have also been a casualty of this unnecessary political controversy. Following immense backlash of these laws, the MLB chose to respond by moving its All-Star game from the city of Atlanta to Denver, Colorado, a state that has similar voting laws to Georgia.

I believe that entertainment and other industries should remain out of the scope of politics entirely with very few exceptions, this not being one of them. A prime reason for my belief is the aftermath of this decision, with many people in Atlanta not only disheartened by this news but also by the fact that revenue that would have been garnered from such a popular event. President Biden even stated in an interview that he strongly supported the MLB’s decision but has

since tried to backtrack as he initially did not take into account how this would affect the people of Georgia economically.

These lies that have been pushed by the mainstream media have dire consequences on the average American as many companies, such as Coca-Cola and Delta have also entered the scene and have indirectly set the precedent for corporations to have a major influence in political matters.

These profit industries were not designed to be involved in the realm of politics and therefore should not cave to the pressure of any political party.

Speaking as someone that does not like politics to be an overwhelming presence in my day to day actions, I feel that many others will agree with this sentiment. I hope that in the coming weeks, corporations will dial back on political commentary and thus diminish the grasp of politics in daily life.

8 | The Villanovan

OPINION

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

On-Campus Vaccine Distribution: Too Little, Too Late

abiding by the same Pennsylvania laws and precautions would be unable to follow the same policy when it comes to vaccine distribution. There does not seem to be an

At the beginning of the obvious answer as to why the recepweek, a schoolwide email was sent to tion of the vaccine came so late in students informing them that vaccithe semester, but it is disappointing, nations for COVID-19 had recently nonetheless. In addition, last semesbecome available to the University, ter, when the University released its and students can now sign up to students at the end of the fall term, receive one. What seemed like a it did not provide students with exit progressive and beneficial step the COVID-19 tests, running the risk University had finally taken in its of students returning to their homes fight against the pandemic, which and spreading COVID to their comhas been objectively poor, turned munities. It seems the University did out to be nothing more than another not have a problem with this, as the misstep. The University acquired same thing is occurring this semesthe Moderna vaccine, which is a ter. With students unable to get their two-dose shot given over the course second doses before the end of the of four weeks, or 28 days. However, spring term, there is still as much with the first dose set for April 16, a chance of students spreading the that leaves the second dose unable to illness to their communities now as be administered until May 18 — one Villanova University distributed Moderna vaccines in the Finneran Pavilion. there was in November. week after the entire student body is Courtesy of Villanova University I think it is fair to say that expected to leave campus. to account for the volume of tests though the University was able to

For students who live nearby, to return to campus one week after needed to be given out, it was too remain on campus for the entirety this is perhaps a no brainer. Howev- leaving to receive the second dose little, too late. of the school year, facing only a few er, only 18.4% of Villanova’s student of the vaccine. I live just about 300 miles away (nearly a five hour drive), It is unfortunate that the speed bumps in case spikes along body population lives in the state of and though I want to get vaccinatUniversity could seemingly not the way, this is more of a testament Pennsylvania, meaning that of the ed as soon as possible, it is simply acquire vaccinations for its students to the student body than it is to the 6,528 undergraduate students atnot feasible for me to drive back to early in the semester like other precautionary efforts of the school tending, roughly 5,353 students live campus one week after moving out. schools have. Haverford College, in slowing the spread. outside of Pennsylvania. Though If this is the case for me, still living a for example, a mere 2.5 miles down

Villanova provided very little neighboring states of New York drivable distance from campus, then the road from Villanova, was able resources in the forms of testing first and New Jersey account for most it most certainly is the case for those to secure Pfizer vaccinations for its semester, and though this has inof the out-of-state students, other creased in the current semester, the states including California, Virginia, who live even further. Had Villanova students more than two weeks ago, only made this happen one week leaving the appropriate amount of vaccine dilemma just further proves Illinois and Florida also rank high earlier, this would not be an issue. time to receive both doses prior to that it was not as prepared for the for the percentage of undergradureturn to campus among the onates. Therefore, it is arguably unrea- However, like it was when it came to the end of term. Though Villanothe beginning of surveillance testing va is a larger institution, it seems going pandemic as it could have or sonable to ask those who live a long and moreover ramping up facilities strange that two private universities should have been. drive, a flight or a time zone away Regan McEnroe Staff Writer

Marvel’s Social Commentary Through Its Latest TV Series Steven Makino Staff Writer

Admittedly, when Marvel Studios first announced over a year ago its slate of upcoming projects, I was cautiously optimistic. The Marvel Cinematic Universe had just culminated its more than decade-long narrative with “Avengers: Endgame,” an unprecedented movie that will no doubt be recognized as a staple of the superhero genre. While “Spider-Man: Far From Home” was released a few months later, there had begun to be a sense of fatigue from a sizable amount of fans –– myself included –– since the previous years had as much as three movies annually in theaters.

Luckily, Marvel chose to take a year hiatus, which would end up being extended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Still, I was still skeptical about how it would continue to keep me engaged but still eager at the prospect of new TV shows. I can safely say that my skepticism was unfounded as “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier” has managed to intrigue me in ways other than just continuing the stories of two Avengers.

After the finale of the MCU’s debut show “Wandavision,” I was left thoroughly pleased with the series and wondered if the upcoming show about Avengers Sam Wilson and Bucky Barnes –– whom I personally was indifferent to previously –– would be able to live up to the standard that was set. I am pleased to say that it certainly does but in a different way, as the ongoing show chooses to focus on a real-world issue that

had not been present in this fashion beforehand: racial injustice.

The series starts off with Wilson struggling with fulfilling his friend’s hope for taking the mantle as his successor. He decides to decline the proposition and proceeds to give Captain America’s iconic shield to the government. Initially, viewers are led to believe that the main reason for this decision was his insecurity of living up to the legacy that Steve Rogers left behind with the shield. However, as the show progresses, we learn more about the history of the shield as the story introduces us to Isaiah Bradley, an African American Korean War veteran who had been given the Super Soldier Serum in the 1950s, similar to Rogers. He used this power to later save prisoners of war. Unlike Rogers, however, he was not praised as a symbol of America due to racial prejudices that plagued the country during that time and instead was held captive by the U.S. government for this action in order for them to experiment on him to see why the serum was effective on him. He was imprisoned for 30 years before being freed and was then relocated to Baltimore having been declared legally dead by the government to cover their tracks.

Without going into more details about the show, he was clearly capable of being the next Captain America but was ultimately stripped of this chance on the account of the color of his skin. As a result, he has remained secluded from the public eye living in resentment for the government he pledged his loyalty to in a time when a hero was desperately needed.

Wilson, despite being an Avenger, had also been subjected to

“The Falcon and Winter Soldier” is the latest edition to the Marvel universe.

Courtesy of Disney

racial discrimination in his lifetime as an African American, which makes this story way more emotionally impactful. The show manages to convey the idea that even superheroes aren’t immune to the enemy that is racism and manages to add a layer of depth that I never expected a show like this to take –– and I love it. It adds more complexity to the main character in a way that feels mostly natural while cleverly addressing issues in the nation today with the recent police killings and overarching issue of racism that have sadly been prominent in recent years.

When talking to Wilson, Bradley said, “You think things are different? You think times are different?”

This statement makes Wilson, myself and likely many other views reflect upon the history of the country and

how like the shield, it has a complicated and rather dark past. Wilson’s hesitation to be the next “Captain America” becomes a more understandable conflict as not only does he feel he cannot fill his best friend’s shoes, but also he wonders if the world is ready for a black iteration of the “symbol of hope” and whether the nation would even accept him. This show is not without its flaws but portrays one of the strongest character arcs in the MCU and is definitely worth a watch.

While the show will release its series finale this Friday on Disney+, I want Wilson to end up taking on the mantle as the next Captain America not only because I feel he is more than worthy of the position, but I see him as a symbol of hope that the country has genuinely learned from its past and on the path towards positive change.

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

CULTURE

The Villanovan | 9

CULTURE

Campus Hosts Its Annual NOVAdance Fundrasier

NOVAdance volunteers show off their choreographed line-dance.

Courtesy of Marina Rouse

Elena Rouse Co-Culture Continued from p.1

Krista Spears, a member of the freshmen Sidekick committee, had similar views of the day’s event.

“Today has truly been such a memorable and fun experience,” Spears said. “Not only have I made so many new friends, but I have been reminded

of why I joined NOVAdance in the first place. I am so lucky to be a part of such an amazing organization and I am so grateful for having the opportunity to meet all of our inspiring B+ Heroes.”

The energy was palpable as the community, young and old, came out to help with the day. With the children in the hearts of everyone involved and “For The Kids” adorning the clothing of those who attended, the readiness and care of the community was clear.

The night ended with group

line dances and performances by multiple groups and Greek life chapters, all for the cause of raising more last minute donations. Students cheered as their peers gave their best moves for the crowd.

Alessandra Tomas, a sophomore who came out to support the event, summed up NOVAdance.

“While not having been part of the NOVAdance committee, it’s been really exciting seeing everything that my friends have worked so hard for come to

fruition,” Tomas said. “You don’t have to be a part of the committee to feel the energy and see the impact NOVAdance has not only on our heroes but on the community as a whole.”

This year’s NOVAdance was able to raise a total of $481,753.64 for the cause.

NOVAdance was a day full of togetherness as the community blossomed through its common goal of helping children with devastating illness and, of course, dance.

Muslim Students Association Hosts Ramadan Dinners Sarah Hecht Staff Writer

This April, more than 1.5 billion Muslims around the globe are participating in the holy month of Ramadan through the practice of fasting and prayer. This month, Villanova’s Muslim Students Association (MSA), in conjunction with Villanova Campus Ministry, is hosting weekly Ramadan dinners on Thursday evenings in the Dougherty Hall Tent. Free and diverse foods will be served each week.

Ramadan is a holy month of fasting occurring during the ninth month of Muslim calendar, corresponding with the appearance and subsequent disappearance of the crescent moon. This month is marked as a time for introspection, communal prayer and reading from the Quran for the Muslim community. It is the belief of practicing Muslims that those who observe this holy month are forgiven by God for their past sins as long as they fast, pray and are steadfast in these practices. Therefore, through their weekly meals, Villanova’s MSA helps Muslim students properly observe throughout this holy month.

Freshman Yousef Maner, head of the MSA, encourages any interested member of Villanova’s community to attend the Thursday

meals as the MSA hopes to promote Muslim awareness on campus, producing an inclusive environment, which is a message they share on the organization’s site.

This past Thursday, April 15, marked the first of these weekly gatherings. The evening proved highly successful with more than 60 students coming out to Dougherty tent to share both a meal and meaningful conversation. Traditional Desi cuisine was served, which students thoroughly

enjoyed, and conversation focused on a myriad of topics.

“They also participated in an informational discussion about Muslims, Muslim traditions and the holy month of Ramadan,” Maner said.

Students unfamiliar with the faith who attended the dinner were able to learn from their peers and gain a better understanding and appreciation for the traditions of this religion and its surrounding culture.

“I wholeheartedly enjoyed

MSA’s Ramadan Dinner since it helped me to understand and appreciate Muslim culture better,” freshman Diana Gabriella Hume-Rivera said.

“I learned how Ramadan is not only a physical choice of abstention of food, water and pleasures, but a way of empathizing with those in need and a time for self-improvement and spiritual growth in community.”

The Muslim Student Association shared its gratitude to Villanova’s Dining Services, as it offers a breakfast bag program to fasting Muslim students throughout the holy month of Ramadam, which aids the observance during this time. Moreover, Villanova’s Campus Ministry has helped the Muslim Student Association in its offering of resources and financial support, demonstrating its support of Villanova’s Muslim students.

Registration is required for these dinners as participants must choose their desired food choice. One can register for these events by going the Muslim Students Associations page on the Villanova Organizations website. Please note, sign-ups are expected the Monday prior to each Thursday get together.

The remaining weekly Thursday dinners include Soul Food on April 22 from 7-8:30 p.m. and Arab Food on April 29 from 7:30-9 p.m.

The Muslim Students Association hosted a table outside Doughtery Hall. and will be held in the Dougherty Hall Courtesy of Yousef Maner tent.

10 | The Villanovan

CULTURE

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

Villanova Anime Club Holds 2021 Nova Con A.J. Fezza Co-Culture Editor

This past weekend, while NOVADance activities occupied the attention of students on campus, another all-day event was taking place online. Nova Con was held on Saturday, April 17, from 12-6 p.m.

Headed by Villanova Anime Club, Nova Con is a multimedia convention that brings together many student interest organizations on campus, including Gaming Society, Tabletop Gaming Club, Trading Card Game Club and League of Legends Club. Nova Con has been around for a while, but this was the first year that it went digital. The entire event was held on Discord, with some sessions migrating to Zoom.

Throughout the six hours of Nova Con, a variety of events took place, many of them simultaneously.

The Anime Club held numerous panels. The University’s own Nathan Badenoch, Associate Professor of Japanese and Asian Studies, held a presentation on “Onomatopoeia in Anime and Manga.” Anime Club President Jude Dizon held the discussion “Ride from the Rising Sun: Kamen Rider in the West,” while another student Eleanore Woodruff held the discussion “Discovering Distinct Dialects: The Myth of a Singular Japanese.”

One debate took place, called “The Big Three Debate on Popularity.” The debate topic centered around which shounen anime (geared toward boys) should be the new “Big Three” — that is, the most ground-

breaking recent anime titles. Debate participants agreed that the animes “My Hero Academia” and “Demon Slayer” land in the top three, but disagreed on what deserves the third spot. Suggestions included “Boruto,” “Dr. Stone,” “Black Clover” and more.

There were also several Q&As featuring TikTok and Instagram creators, as well voice actors from video games like “Halo” and animes like “Sonic X” and “Yu-GiOh!”

The other associated clubs also had activities such as online gaming tournaments, one-shot Dungeons and Dragons sessions and live streams of club sessions.

At one point, there were even live streamed musical performances.

The performers played instruments and sang to the computer screen, using Discord’s voice channel features to stream themselves as attendees watched. Security would help the performers read the chat for music requests.

More than 650 people were in attendance. A majority of participants arrived via social media advertising and promotion from Nova Con panelists.

The Villanovan spoke to Anime Club President Jude Dizon and Vice President Deborah Nwogu about how the club set about preparing for this event.

“We had started preparing for this event mid-Fall 2020,” Dizon said.

“At that time, the focus was contacting panelists that were requested by our members. During Winter Break, we had held meetings to discuss the

structure of the convention with the help of Deborah’s friend, who had held a Discord convention of her own earlier in 2020.”

During March, planning started to ramp up. The Anime Club began to work with other organizations to decide which events to hold at the convention. The club also began to confirm attendance of panelists and finalize contracts and create the convention’s server, schedule and promotional materials.

“It’s been a rather hectic month, but we managed to make it work with a lot of teamwork and dedication,” Dizon said.

In previous years, Nova Con has been held on campus, mostly in the Villanova Room and the theater in the Connelly Center. Vendors from the general area would attend to promote and sell their wares, like art and gaming services. There would also be quiz shows and prizes.

“This year, while we barred the quizzes with prizes and vendors due to the Discord format, we attempted to innovate the convention by having more panels made by members of our community while also varying the types of creators to be our panelists,” Dizon said. “The number of events going on at the same time was definitely a new thing for us.”

This year’s Nova Con was also the first to have an incredibly large presence of external guests. In previous years, participants would be almost entirely Villanova students.

“However, with the ability to hold our convention online, the potential for anyone to appear increased

significantly, and it shows,” Dizon said. “It was sort of overwhelming.”

“Nova Con was probably one of the hardest challenges I’ve taken on. Yet, I loved every minute of it,” Nwogu said. “The stress of approaching deadlines, the frustration of organizational red tape and the unbridled joy that came with its success have all helped me grow as a person and a leader. As I take on the role of VU Anime Club President, I look forward to next year’s Nova Con and its potential for even greater levels of success.”

All in all, Nova Con was a clear success. Now, the Villanova Anime Club looks forward to a possiblyin-person convention in 2022.

2021 Nova Con had many outside speakers, including “Halo” franchise voice actor Tim Dadbo.

Courtesy of Twitter / @davocal1

2021 Academy Awards: Best Picture Nominees Lineup Joe Adams Staff Writer

The 93rd Annual Academy Awards are set for Sunday, Apr. 25, and I could not be more excited. After the pandemic, many questioned whether the Oscars would even occur this year, or if there would be enough movies to create a list of nominees. Luckily, the cinema industry survived, and although most movies may have been available for rental or purchase at home only, we still got them.

This year, I continued my annual tradition of watching each best picture nominee to decide for myself which one was the best.

There were eight nominees for this year’s Oscars, and I watched them all: some with curiosity, some with happiness and others with boredom. From worst to best, here are my opinions on the Best Picture nominees:

8) “Mank”: “Mank” centers around unique screenwriter Herman Mankiewicz as he writes “Citizen Kane” (1941). Personally, this film didn’t do it for me. It was boring, confusing and completely in black and white. The plot seemed dated, and it simply didn’t keep me interested. I would not recommend watching this, unless you’re a die-hard fan of “Citizen Kane.”

7) “Nomadland”: This film is the favorite to win the Best Picture award, but I don’t see

why. It follows a woman living as a nomad in the American West after losing her job to the Great Recession. While I enjoyed the cinematography, the plot was generally uninteresting and there was not a lot of action. Movies don’t need action to be good, but this storyline was not intriguing whatsoever, so I don’t get the hype.

6) “Sound of Metal”: Initially, this movie seemed like it would be at the top of my list.

It was not awful to watch. There were good performances, and the storyline kept me engaged and made sense. However, the ending to this film did not feel complete. Viewers get a glimpse into a drummer’s life as he begins to

Minari is now available on Amazon Prime.

Courtesy of Vulture

lose his hearing, but at times, the plot simply doesn’t seem to fit.

Overall, it’s worth the watch, but I would not expect this to win at the Oscars.

5) “Judas and the Black Messiah”: This film was one that I enjoyed, not only because of its important historical context, but also because it kept me watching. Viewers learn about how the Black Panther Party’s Illinois leader, Fred Hampton, was followed by the FBI, and how this played out over time. In a time of racial unrest in our country, this movie sadly reminded me that what we see today isn’t much different from what happened only decades ago.

4) “The Trial of the Chicago 7”: This is another great film centering around the true story of the 1969 trial regarding seven men charged with conspiracy during the 1968 Democratic National Convention. This movie kept me interested all the way through, and it also dealt with race relations in the United States during a time of civil unrest. Each of the actors portraying the Chicago 7 did a great job, and overall, the movie appeals to a wide audience. I would definitely recommend checking this one out.

And now, the top three.

These films are the real deal. One must watch these movies if given the chance. They are all spectacular.

3) “Promising Young Woman”: This movie truly blew me away. From start to finish, I

didn’t know what to expect. The plot was spectacular, the characters were unique, and the message was so relevant. It’s best going into this movie without knowing too much, but it follows a young woman, Cassie, as she reflects on her past and tries to bring justice to past issues. Again, it’s a rollercoaster from start to finish, so go watch this.

2) “The Father”: “The Father” was a more serious film about a woman dealing with her father’s dementia and what they both go through as his conditions worsen throughout the movie. The way that the movie is created and edited, along with the message behind the film, is what makes it so great. It is especially emotional if you know someone in your family who has or had dementia like I did. It does a great job at depicting what it’s like to go through this.

1) “Minari”: Last, but certainly not least, is “Minari.” I didn’t know a lot about this going in, but it was better that way. The film follows a Korean family who moves to Arkansas and how this plays out for them. Honestly, it was a breath of fresh air–– an interesting, compelling film that kept me thinking a lot about the meaning of life afterwards. Those are my favorite kinds of movies. The film is mostly in Korean, but you can watch with subtitles to fully understand the genius of this film.

This one belongs in the GOATs of Oscar nominees.

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

CULTURE

The Villanovan |11

Return of the Met: Metropolitan Museum of Art Gala 2021 Devin Toolen Staff Writer

The First Monday in May is one of the most important days of the year in the fashion world. On that night each year, the Metropolitan Museum of Art opens its doors to the most elite celebrities, designers and distinguished guests to introduce the new costume exhibit. Along with being a fashion event of incredible importance, the Met Gala is one of the most exclusive gatherings. The Gala is invite-only. One must be 18 or older to attend, and absolutely no photos are allowed inside (although we’ve all seen those iconic bathroom pictures).

Last year, due to the pandemic, the Met Gala unfortunately was canceled. However, now that vaccines are being administered more frequently and restrictions are beginning to lift in the United States, the Gala will take place in September of 2021.

This breaks from the tradition of having the Gala on the first Monday in May. However, there will be an additional Gala in May of 2022.

The theme for both the September and May Galas will be American Fashion. The September exhibit, “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion,” will open on Sept. 18 and will remain on display even after the May exhibit, “In America: An Anthology of Fashion,” opens. Both shows will run until Sept. 5, 2022.

This year’s theme has been received differently. Some high fashion bloggers, stylists and designers are excited to take on this theme and present their interpretation of it at the Gala. However, some people have not received the theme quite as positively. On the day that the dual Galas were announced, people took to Twitter expressing their disdain with the idea. People thought that

American fashion would be too boring for something as important as the Met Gala. However, Andrew Bolton, the curator in charge of the Costume Institute at the Met, has given reason as to why there is no better time for this theme.

“The main [reason] was the fact that the American fashion community has been supporting us for 75 years, really since the beginning of the Costume Institute, so I wanted to acknowledge its support, and also celebrate and reflect upon American fashion,” Bolton said in a recent interview with Vogue Magazine.

Another reason for this theme Bolton described in his interview is the changing nature of the fashion industry. In particular, Bolton has noticed the industry’s participation in and consideration of political and social justice movements, as well as its response to the coronavirus pandemic.

“I’ve been really impressed by American designers’ responses to the social and political climate, particularly around issues of body inclusivity and gender fluidity, and I’m just finding their work very, very self-reflective,” Bolton said. “I really do believe that American fashion is undergoing a Renaissance.”

So, what looks will be modeled up the iconic carpeted steps on Fifth Avenue this September and next May? A lot of fashion influencers, TikTokers and bloggers have been sharing their opinions about what to expect from this theme. One fashion influencer known as @FashionBoyy on TikTok is excited to see American designers’ influence within luxury houses for which they have previously worked. In a video this influencer posted about the Gala, he mentioned how American designer Marc Jacobs revolutionized Louis Vuitton when he was the artistic director there for

Rihanna wearing Gui Pei Couture at the 2015 Met Gala.

Courtesy of CNN

several years. Similarly, when another American designer Tom Ford spent time at Gucci, he gave the fashion house a new, more risqué presence in the early 2000s. These designers, along with so many others, will work to produce their best interpretations of this year’s theme.

Over the past years, we’ve seen amazing costume exhibits at

the Met, and this year will definitely not disappoint. Both Galas will serve as a powerful reintroduction for the fashion industry after more than a year in lockdown. With A-list celebrities sporting their most elegant and elaborate pieces, and a beautiful and captivating costume exhibit just inside the doors, the Met Galas will be sure to amaze us this fall and next spring.

The “Book Buzz” Pick of the Week: The Midnight Library Elena Rouse Co-Culture Editor

This week’s book recommendation is Matt Haig’s The Midnight Library. Getting soaring rates on Goodreads, as well as being on The New York Times Best-Seller List for multiple weeks in a row, this novel is one that has taken countless readers on a journey beyond themselves.This is Haig’s third popular release, the other two titled Reasons to Stay Alive and How to Stop Time.

Everyone wonders what their life would be like if they had made different choices in life. Who would they be? Where would they be? Who would they love? Every decision a person makes affects the way their path unfurls. The Midnight Library dives into that idea and breaks it wide open, giving readers the transcending experience of “what-ifs” lived out.

The plot of the novel follows Nora Seed. She is in some of her most troubling moments.

Nora is full of regret after making certain life choices, and somehow finds herself at the edge of the universe. There, she finds herself in a place called The Midnight Library.

It is in this library that Nora meets

her high school librarian, who explains to Nora that this library houses books of all the different paths she could have taken in life.

Suddenly, Nora is faced with an infinite number of books, one section specificia;ly titled the books of regrets. Suddenly, regretful Nora

in-depth look into life, it’s worth and what every choice does for us.

Goodreads member Nulufer Ozmekik shared her thoughts on the novel.

“This book is not only about Nora Seed who is trapped in her life, seeing herself a failure, a disposable human waste who has nothing to achieve, will never be missed by anyone” Ozmekik wrote. “It’s about regrets, unfinished plans, what ifs, approval of families, drugs, mistakes, giving up, realizing other people’s dreams, self regret, insecurities, self harm, love, passion and hate.”

According to The Hollywood Reporter and Haigs’ website, the book is set to be made into a movie. It’s set to release in Autumn 2021 with Haig as an executive director.

The novel is all about second chances, something wanted by everyone at least once in their The Midnight Library is a must-read. lives. The commonness of the Courtesy of Penguin House Library book’s theme among all of humanity makes it out to resonate in is able to see all the paths her life some way with all who read it. It could have gone if she had made leaves one wanting to see their own different life choices. She is faced Midnight Library. with the choice of seeing how her

“If you aim to be somelife could have turned out if she thing you are not, you will always chose differently, and if she wants fail,” Haig’s wrote in the novel, to change how her life turned out.

“Aim to be you.”

The novel is a philosophical and

12 | The Villanovan

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

CULTURE

Dancing the Night Away at Dance Palooza 2021 Skylar Musick Staff Writer

The University held its very first Dance Palooza on Friday, April 16.

All dancers involved in Music Activities had been choreographing and practicing their routines since February. The hard work and dedication paid off when they finally had the chance to perform on the Mendel Field Stage from 7:30-9:00 p.m. on Friday.

During this semester, these talented dancers have been learning, choreographing and practicing their Palooza dances, with some groups rehearsing for multiple hours, more than once a week. To remain diligent in following COVID-19 precautions, dancers rehearsed in the St. Mary’s Music Activities Tent, the St. Mary’s Dance Studio and St. Mary’s Chapel.

“Dancing in the chapel was different than what I am used to, but the space is long and allowed us to spread out,” said freshman Allison Edmonds, who is a member of ‘Nova Noise and Dance Ensemble. “I also think the lack of mirrors was beneficial for us. Come performance time, we were ready.”

In the blink of an eye, the day of Dance Palooza arrived. All dance groups rehearsed their routines on stage at sound check on Friday afternoon. Marley was placed on the floor of the stage so that

dancers, such as those in Dance Company and Ensemble, were able to coupé turn, développé and jeté safely and freely.

It had been drizzling all day, but this didn’t stop the performers from shining bright on stage. The show began with no other than DJ 007, who has played students’ favorite music at countless campus events, including basketball games. Then, it was time for each group to perform. The Villanova community danced along with Wazobia (the African Dance Company), ‘Nova Noise (the Tap Ensemble), Dance Company and Ensemble, Ablaze (the Hip-Hop Dance Team), Nova Nassa (the competitive co-ed Bollywood Fusion Dance Team), Villanova Twirlers (the Baton Twirling Team) and Superlative (the all-style, multicultural Dance Crew). Even a professional hip-hop group called Illstyle entertained the campus community. Once Superlative walked off stage, the crowd sadly packed up their portable chairs, campus cozies and blankets. They were extremely impressed by the excellent performances and had just as much fun as the dancers.

“I really enjoyed Dance Palooza,” sophomore Olivia Sabalaskey said.

“It was such a fun event to attend with my friends and a perfect way to destress, given our upcoming final exams. All of the dance groups are so talented.”

Once the show ended, there were still exciting events taking place on

campus. Students got to enjoy free and delicious food, like mac n’ cheese, burgers and crepes at the food trucks. Also, th nks to Community First and the Campus Activities Team (CAT), and in honor of NOVAdance Weekend, all students had the chance to dance the night away at the second Silent Disco of the semester.

“Dance Palooza was so fun and really gave me something to look for-

ward to in a semester that has not had a lot of in-person events,” said freshman Catherine Messier, who is a member of Dance Ensemble and ‘Nova Noise. “I loved the opportunity to perform with all my friends after not being able to for so long.”

Clearly, Dance Palooza was a night that the performers will always remember.

Professional hip-hop group Illstyle made an appearance.

Courtesy of Villanova.edu

Video Game Recommendation: Sid Meier’s Civilization VI Silu Liu Staff Writer

“From the first stirrings of life beneath water... to the great beasts of the Stone Age... to man taking his first upright steps, you have come far. Now begins your greatest quest: from this early cradle of civilization on towards the stars.” -Ancient Era Opening of Civilization VI

Civilization VI is a turnbased strategy video game that was originally created by the legendary game designer Sid Meier. This game allows one to build an empire to stand the test of time. One plays as one of the rulers of the world to help establish and lead a civilization from the Ancient Era to the Information Era. Players can do whatever they want as a ruler of the world: conquer other civilizations, start cultural war or spread a religion. One can meet other great leaders in world history and decide to become their ally or enemy.

Want to be a God of War? Expand your territory by choosing a great location with enough resources and possibilities of future growth. Develop military power by putting energy on active research in technology to unlock more powerful

armies that one can own. Conquer all the other countries’ land to rule the world. But be careful: one needs to be strong enough to accept the anger of all the other civilizations.

Want to be a Collector of

Wonders? Build all the amazing wonders that you want, such as the Great Wall, Eiffel Tower and Stonehenge.

One can own them at the same time.

Create a legend of culture by being the leading culture for every civili-

The game is available in multiple languages and platforms.

Courtesy of Civilization IV

zation. But be careful, the time one spends on these wonders may give the enemy time to develop military power. Find possibilities on culture but remain alert for other aggressive leaders. Also, the barbarians will create a headache.

The game is available in multiple languages and platforms.

One can also get it from the app store for Apple devices. But, the experience will be better if one purchases it from Steam, a video game digital distribution service platform using your computer. The price will be around $30 depending on the pack bundle.

From another perspective, it’s a great way to learn history. Meet all the great leaders of the world by actually becoming them. Develop your own way of diplomacy to know the difficulty of politics. Experience how the spy can actually make a huge difference. Under the pandemic, all the travel plans are forced to be cancelled. If one wants to figure out another way of “visiting” all different places of the world, Civilization VI may be a great choice.

Just a year ago, we had to learn what it was like to be stuck at home, embracing our daily family walks in the sunshine, and now college students have embraced the nice weather more than ever.

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

The Villanovan | 13

SPORTS

SPORTS

Softball Sweeps Doubleheader With Providence

Tomaso.

The Wildcats scored their next run in the bottom of the third behind two doubles from DaCosta

Coming off of two wins and freshman Tess Cites to stretch against Delaware last Wednesthe lead to 4-1. day, Villanova softball carried its

Henry’s solo home run momentum into its Big East doucame in the bottom of the fifth to bleheader at home against Proviextend the lead even more to 5-1 dence. The ‘Cats swept the Friars entering the sixth inning. with a 6-1 win in game one and a

Rauch’s dominant pitch2-0 shutout in game two. ing performance shined through.

The Wildcats showed off She retired 11 consecutive batters their offensive power in the first after the Tomaso home run in the game, led by senior Paige Rauch second, before walking a batter in and junior Ryan Henry, who each the top of the sixth. Rauch did not hit a home run. The pitching for waiver after the walk, retiring the the ‘Cats was impressive in both next two batters to hold the 5-1 games with Rauch pitching seven lead heading into the bottom of innings and allowing one run in the inning. the first game, followed by senior

Rauch made it 6-1 in the Anissa Amarillas pitching a sevbottom of the sixth with her solo en-inning shutout in the second. blast over the right field wall. This

The scoring run started was Rauch’s sixth home-run of early for the ‘Cats in game one the season and 36th of her career. with a 3-0 lead after one inning. A Rauch became the all-time home lead-off single by Rauch followed run leader in Villanova history by a double down the line by sewhen she notched her 35th home nior Angela Gaimpolo brought in run on April 7 against UPenn. the first run for the Wildcats.

Rauch will continue to add to this

The other two runs were record and stretch her total for the brought in by a single from sopho- remainder of the season. more Chloe Smith to advance the

Providence was able to runs and a sacrifice fly from senior load the bases in the bottom of the Julia DaCosta to send the runners seventh inning, but Rauch forced home. a fly-ball to center field, caught by

The Friars responded in the junior Sydney Hayes, who then top of the second inning, scoring launched the ball home to Henry their only run of the game on a who tagged out the Friar’s runner one-run homer from junior Jessica to end the game.

Meghann Morhardt Staff Writer

Game two started slow for both teams with just two hits combined over the first two and a half innings.

The Wildcats ended the scoring drought in the bottom of the third with a lead off triple from Rauch. Smith came in clutch with a two-out RBI single to bring Rauch home and give the ‘Cats a 1-0 lead.

Amarillas rolled through the Providence batters in the fourth and fifth innings, allowing just one base-runner as the result of a Wildcat error. The Friars got one base runner in the sixth on a two-out single, but Amarillas was able to strike out the side and hold the 1-0 lead entering the bottom

of the sixth.

Smith opened up the bottom of the sixth with a shot to left field, aided by the bright sun in the eyes of the Friar’s outfielder, which fell for a triple. DaCosta followed this up with an RBI double off the wall to give the Wildcats a 2-0 lead.

The Friars were unable to overcome Amarillas and the rest of the ‘Cats defense in the top of the seventh, allowing the Wildcats to end the game on an infield ground-out grabbed by sophomore first-basemen Victoria Sebastien.

The Wildcats will face Delaware State on Wednesday for a doubleheader on the road, before facing St. John’s over the weekend.

Junior Ryan Henry homered in game one of the weekend doubleheader.

Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

Baseball Swept By Seton Hall In Weekend Series Matthew Ryan Staff Writer

The Wildcats continue to struggle on the baseball diamond, losing their first six Big East contests of the season. In their first home series of conference play, the ‘Cats were swept by the 10-13 Seton Hall Pirates (3-1 Big East), 1-0, 13-2 and 4-1.

Game one had ace junior starting pitcher Gordon Graceffo on the mound for Nova.

The game remained scoreless until the top of the sixth, when the Pirates scored on a sacrifice fly, making it a 1-0 ball game.

This was the final score, as the Wildcats got shut out and lost their Big East home opener.

Graceffo pitched eight innings, only giving up one run, while striking out six, and graduate student Ryan Toohers had one hit and drew three walks.

The Wildcats had five hits, one error, drew six walks and struck out eight batters.

Senior Jimmy Kingsbury got the start for the ‘Cats in game two of the series, but it was an outing he would like to have back.

In the second inning, the Pirates erupted, scoring six runs and jumping out to a 6-0 lead.

The ‘Cats had a promising start to the bottom of the third as their first three batters of the inning walked, loading the bases with no out. The ‘Cats were only able to get

one run out of that inning via a oneout sacrifice fly by junior Nick Lorusso that scored junior Will Reiner.

This run was the Wildcats’ first run in 29 and one-third innings.

The Pirates added to their lead in the top of the fourth with freshman Devin Rivera on the mound for the ‘Cats, scoring three more runs and making it a 9-1 game.

The ‘Cats were able to slightly cut into the deficit with a one-run double by Reiner that scored junior Dylan McNary from second. McNary reached earlier in the inning on a single.

With graduate student Mike Shwartz on the mound for the ‘Cats, the Pirates scored four runs in the top of the sixth, making it a 13-2 ball game. The final run of the inning came with senior Cameron Mathes pitching for the ‘Cats but was charged to Shwartz because he was responsible for the runner that scored.

This was the final score as the mercy rule came into effect after the bottom of the seventh. According to sportsrec.com, the Mercy Rule is “if a team is up by 10 runs after seven innings (or six-and-a-half if the home team is ahead), the game can be called.”

Reiner had one hit (a double), one RBI, scored one run, and drew one walk.

Villanova had two hits (one double), one error, drew five walks and struck out five.

Graduate student Tyler Arella got the start for the ‘Cats in game

three, looking to prevent the series sweep.

The ‘Cats opened up the scoring in the bottom of the second with a one-out bases-loaded walk, drawn by sophomore AJ Hasen, scoring senior Pat O’Neill, who led off the inning with a single.

The ‘Cats were unable to add on to their lead, ending the second inning with a 1-0 lead.

The Pirates tied the game up in the top of the fifth with a two-out RBI single.

Seton Hall took the lead with a bases-loaded, two-run single off of sophomore Danny Wilkinson in the top of the seventh, giving the Pirates a 3-1 lead. Both those runs were charged to sophomore Cole Vanderslice because he was responsible for the two runners that scored.

The Pirates extended their

lead in the top of the eighth with a single off of Wilkinson, making it a 4-1 game.

The ‘Cats were unable to get anything going in the bottom of the eighth and bottom of the ninth.

Arella pitched five and twothirds innings, giving up just one run while striking out three batters.

The Wildcats had four hits, drew four walks and struck out eight batters.

The next series for the ‘Cats is on the road against the 7-15 Butler Bulldogs (2-6 Big East). Game one of the series is on Friday, games two and three are a doubleheader on Saturday and the series finale is on Sunday.

As a team, the Bulldogs hit just .237, while their opponents hit .304. Butler has lost nine of its last 11 games.

Pitcher Tyler Arella had a solid outing Sunday.

Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

14 | The Villanovan

SPORTS

Football Drops Battle of the Blue Anders Pryor Staff Writer

In a crushing senior day loss, Villanova fell in its season finale to Delaware, 27-20, in the Battle of the Blue.

The play of the game happened with just over three minutes left, as Smith ran right but was grabbed by a Delaware defender.

As he fell to the ground, he flipped the ball over his shoulder hoping for a miracle, and junior tight end Charlie Gilroy caught it in the end zone to narrow a 14-point Blue Hen lead to 27-20. It was a remarkable individual effort

by Smith, and it earned national attention, posted by CBS Sports and other national news outlets.

However, the Wildcat comeback fell short, as a late interception of VU quarterback Daniel Smith led to a storming of the field by Blue Hen players.

Thyrick Pitts was the catalyst for Delaware’s victory, with five catches for 104 yards, while Gene Coleman II and Jourdan Townsend each had a touchdown catch. Quarterback Nolan Henderson had a big performance, throwing for 270 yards on 20-of24 throwing with the two touchdowns.

With eight minutes remaining, Khory Spruill rushed for a touchdown to extend the Delaware lead to 27-13. Bryce De Maille had scored in the third quarter to give the Hens a one-TD advantage.

Despite the loss, Villanova

left everything on the field. The Wildcats were able to take advantage of the hard flats Delaware was playing to run up the middle until it got the breaks it needed, allowing for senior back Justin Covington to go for 76 rushing yards. Smith didn’t have the passing game needed to seal the victory, throwing for just 143 yards, albeit with two touchdowns. The ‘Cats tried to mix in some deep passes with the gap space running game to create some confusion for Delaware backs, but could not capitalize on limited opportunities, including a key drop by Boykin.

The defensive stories of the two teams could not have been more different. Delaware, as it has all year, covered the edges of the field well with an aggressive man scheme with the corner. When Villanova tried to spread out its receivers across the perimeter as much as it could, it was able to counter any type of meshing or rub rounds that could have happened five yards off the line. This

was especially effective with the Blue Hens’ two high safety looks, applying more pressure to the Wildcat receivers in motion for incompletions. Delaware also blitzed early, which is also favorable of it, including on third downs to open both the first and third quarters.

Villanova played close in the center of the field, bringing its linebackers and defensive backs close to try and limit the motion options for Delaware, which stood well against Henderson’s running. This was paired with a commonly used single high safety look in the middle of the field, as Delaware stuck to intermediate routes not worth sending several safeties. However, in the Red Zone, Villanova had multiple instances of sending three safeties into the end zone.

Villanova’s season ended with a record of 2-2 after the loss, while Delaware improved to 5-0, qualifying for the FCS playoffs.

The Blue Hens will take on Sacred Heart on Saturday with a trip to the quarterfinals on the line.

Quarterback Daniel Smith threw for just 143 yards in the loss.

Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

Women’s Lax Splits Series With UConn Jamie Pennington Staff Writer

This weekend, the Villanova Women’s Lacrosse team went 1-1 in its series against the UConn Huskies, dropping the first game, 14-7, but winning the finale 13-12.

On Friday, April 16, the ‘Cats fell to UConn. Graduate student Katie Comerford, five days removed from setting a new program record for goals scored, scored three more goals as well as notching an assist, which then set a new program record for assists.

Comerford is now the Villanova record holder for goals, assists and points. The Wildcat goals scored on the day came from Caroline Curnal (both unassisted), who scored two unanswered goals to start the game off 2-0. The Huskies then scored eight unanswered goals, but Comerford (unassisted), Haley Driscoll (Comerford assist),and Olivia Piccirilli (unassisted) each tallied one goal each, narrowing the score to 8-5 at half.

The second half consisted of another unassisted Comerford goal in the second minute, making the score 9-6 UConn. Comerford went on to round out her hat trick with 13 minutes remaining, scoring the ‘Cats seventh and final goal of the game. UConn finished its scoring with three unanswered goals, contributing to a final score of 14-7. Goalkeeper Alexa Moro ended the game with six saves.

The second game of the series on Sunday, however, resulted in a much different outcome for Villanova, as it won in an overtime thriller. The Wildcats recognized its six seniors; Brittany Bruno, Katie Comerford, Haley Driscoll, Kelsey Mentzer, Julianne Puckette and Liz Trojan on Senior Day. Curnal kicked off the day scoring her first unassisted goal, followed by goals from Alexa Tsahalis (unassisted), Libby McKenna (unassisted), two from Brittany Bruno (Comerford assist) and Comerford (Bruno assist). The score at half had the Wildcats down by three at 9-6.

McKenna ignited the ‘Cats scoring in the second half, followed by another Comerford goal (Curnal assist), as well as unassisted goals by Piccirilli and Tsahalis.

With 1:46 remaining in the game, Driscoll (Comerford assist) netted a goal to give the Huskies a one-goal advantage and a score of 12-11. Then, with a mere 0:34 remaining on the clock, Comerford received a pass from Bruno and scored the game-tying goal. In the sudden-death overtime period, in just under a minute and a half, Tsahalis picked off a pass at midfield and found Bruno, who scored on a breakaway, giving the Wildcats the 13-12 victory.

Villanova goalkeepers Moro and Mary Alice Collins combined for 10 saves on the day.

The Wildcats will travel to the University of Denver on April 23 and April 25 to face their fellow Big East competitors in the final regular season series.

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

WEEKLY SCOREBOARD Apr. 14 - Apr. 20

Wednesday, April 14 Softball vs Drexel (G1) 2-0 W Softball vs Drexel (G2) 6-5 W Thursday, April 15 None Friday, April 16 Women’s Track @ Virginia Challenge No Team Scoring Women’s Lacrosse vs UConn 7-14 L Baseball vs Seton Hall 0-1 L Men’s Track @ Virginia Challenge No Team Scoring Men’s Soccer @ Wake Forest 0-1 L Saturday, April 17 Women’s Rowing @ Kerr Cup Regatta No Team Scoring Men’s / Women’s Track @ Virginia Challenge No Team Scoring Men’s / Women’s Track @ Quaker Invite No Team Scoring Softball vs Providence (G1) 6-1 W Men’s Tennis vs Georgetown 4-3 W Women’s Tennis vs Georgetown 5-2 W Men’s Lacrosse @ St. John’s 23-8 W Football vs Delaware 20-27 L Baseball vs Seton Hall 2-13 L (7) Softball vs Providence (G2) 2-0 W Sunday, April 18 Women’s Water Polo vs Siena 21-12 W Women’s Lacrosse vs UConn 13-12 W (OT) Men’s Tennis @ Penn 1-6 L Softball vs Providence 2-1 W Baseball vs Seton Hall 1-4 L Men’s Golf @ Abarta Collegiate Invitational T-2nd/13 (Day 1) Women’s Tennis @ Seton Hall 4-0 W Women’s Water Polo vs Iona 20-8 W Monday, April 19 Men’s Golf @ Abarta Collegiate Invitational 3rd/13 (Final) Men’s Tennis @ Loyola MD 6-1 W Tuesday, April 20 Men’s Tennis @ Drexel 2-4 L

The team celebrates after Saturday’s overtime win.

Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

The Villanovan | 15

SPORTS

Men’s and Women’s Tennis Gain Momentum Noah Swan Staff Writer

The Villanova Men’s and Women’s Tennis Teams earned three wins in four matches during the past week, looking to build momentum heading into the Big East Championships.

The men started their week with a 6-1 victory over Millersville, securing all but the number one singles point. The Wildcats followed with a 4-3 triumph over Big East rivals Georgetown, a nail-biter that came down to freshman Anthony Prokurat at the number five singles position.

As the season comes to a close, coach Brad Adams will be looking to solidify the lineup with an eye toward post-season play.

With few changes expected for the rest of the season, it seems Adams has decided on his doubles pairings for each spot in the lineup.

Leading the pack is the duo of sophomore Alex Kim and senior Daniel Martinez, a relatively new combination for the team. Kim started the year alongside sophomore Justin Suarez, but the partners fumbled to a 1-6 record as the number one doubles team.

Adams substituted Martinez for Suarez to improve, although this has had mixed results.

The new partnership is 2-2, benefitting from the greater experience Martinez provides as a senior. The switch has also allowed Suarez to unearth a fantastic run of form with Prokurat at the number three doubles spot. The younger doubles

team is 4-0 and will look to maintain that form moving into the Big East Championships. The headlining doubles pairing and the most reliable team for Adams comprises junior Matthew Jones and freshman Josh Robinson. With a 10-4 record on the season, their solidity contrasts the fluid doubles lineup throughout the season.

Fitting all the doubles pairings into the perfect or most successful amalgamation is so important when considering the dynamic of individual matches. The ‘Cats begin each match by playing out the doubles point, so winning the opener can provide a needed boost for the players as they move into their singles matches. Adams has professed this feeling throughout the season, and these three consecutive wins with consistent lineups appear to be the fruits of his constant tinkering.

The women’s team has required fewer adjustments throughout their season having only played six different combinations of doubles teams this year.

Following a two-week stretch of canceled matches, the team is now 4-1 through their last five matches. The one loss came to Penn on Tuesday, a match situated on a knife-edge from start to end. The top two doubles teams secured the doubles point for the ‘Cats, but three singles matches decided in the third set went the wrong direction, leaving Villanova with a 3-4 loss. The Wildcats bounced back quickly, handling Georgetown 5-2 by winning all three doubles matches and the four sin-

Senior Claudia Althans got a doubles win against Seton Hall.

Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

gles matches at the bottom of the lineup.

Despite the mangled scheduling and extenuating circumstances defining this season, senior Lexi DeNucci is etching her name in the annals of history with her performances in both singles and doubles. She touts a combined record of 14-2 in both singles and doubles, a ludicrous achievement when considering the pandemic-induced effects on the season.

She has found a perfect partner in junior Annalise Klopfer, the two enjoying incredible success this season. Klopfer carries an even 4-4 record at the number one singles spot, facing the toughest competition each week. Recently named Big East Female Athlete of the Week, Klopfer reversed

the fortunes of her predecessors by defeating three-time Big East Player of the Year Jessica Livianu in straight sets.

Senior Claudia Althans and junior Emily Strande rival their teammates in the doubles lineup. With a record of 5-2, this team is counted on by coach Steve Reiniger to secure the doubles point in almost every match.

This guaranteed momentum has undoubtedly contributed to the team’s 5-3 record on the season, and the cohesion in the team will serve them well as they stare down Big East Championship rivals.

As each Villanova tennis team inches toward post-season play, this recent success will serve each squad well as they look to bookend the season with a title.

Ambrose Abbracciamento Wins Individual Title

Zac Tipton Staff Writer

The Wildcat golfers completed a two-tournament week, in which 10 athletes were able to compete. In Villanova’s annual home tournament, the team finished fifth with a total score of 581 (+21). It went 289 on the first day and 292 on the second. Freshman Peter Weaver and Senior Max Siegfred tied with a team best 145 (+5). Villanova also sent out a “B” team, which finished T12 with a total score of 598. Freshman Jonathan Elkins led that team with a 146 (+6) over the two days.

Villanova had eight of its 10 golfers finish in the top half of the field. In the Abarta Coca-Cola Collegiate Invitational, Villanova shined with a third place finish and a total score of 585 (+9).

Villanova shot 291 on the first day and 294 on the second.

Grad student Ambrose Abbracciamento and Siegfred both shot -2 under par in the first round. While Siegfred couldn’t repeat that great score on the second day, Abbracciamento did and played even better. Ambrose shot an incredible 66 (-6) to come back and win the tournament on the second day, finishing with a two-day score of 136.

Villanova came into its home tournament needing a good finish to keep the momentum going. It had finished well in its last

few tournaments.

The team did just that, finishing fifth at its home tournament and getting some great production from guys on the “B” team to show that there is a bright future ahead. Villanova came out rolling with all the players on its main team shooting +5 or less. Elkins and Luke Alexander did well from the “B” team as well, both shooting +4.

On the second day, the team played well, with a couple of players like Weaver shooting way better than the score on the first day. Weaver shot +5 on the first day but came back with a round of even par on the second day including an incredible eagle on the seventh to finish 15th and tie Siegfried for the team lead. On the other team, Elkins shot +2 on the second day to bring his total score to +6 and finish third out of all Wildcats on the course. Elkins and Weaver are both freshmen, so it is safe to say that the future is looking good.

In the second tournament of the week, Villanova was back with a solid first day performance.

The team shot a 291, which is only +3, to put it into second place going into the second day.

On the second day, Villanova finished with a +6, 294 to finish third behind Lehigh and Rider.

Villanova’s seniors stepped up, with Ambrose winning the entire tournament with a total two-day score of 136 or -8. Junior Noah

Peck finished second on the team with a combined score of +5.

Weaver and Siegried both had a score of +6. Villanova also had Senior Reb Banas there for what may have been his final tournament as a Wildcat. Banas finished with a total score of +18. Alexander rounded out the pack finishing with a score of +12.

After his successful weekend, Abbracciamento was named co-Big East golfer of the week with St. John’s Jack Simon. Villanova will now head to Florida next week for the Big East Championships, where it will enter as the eighth best team, according to average over par. The team is currently averaging 14.82 over par.

Abbracciamento picked up an individual win for Villanova.

Courtesy of Villanova Athletics