Culture with True Biz
Kalyani Halsband Staff Writer
On Monday, Sept. 23, Falvey Library hosted an event on Deaf culture to celebrate September as Deaf Awareness Month.
The event, a panel discussion on Sara Nović’s bestselling Deaf culture novel, True Biz, took place in the Speaker’s Corner of Falvey Library. Panelists Michelle Foran, Neil McDevitt, Amy Vadakin and Dominic Gordine led the discussion. The event was co-moderated by Communications professor and ASL, or American Sign Language, Area Coordinator Dr. Heidi Rose and Special Education Professor and Disability & Deaf Studies Program Director Dr. Christa Bialka. There were three interpreters for the panelists and the audience.
Foran is an ASL Professor at Villanova University. McDevitt is the Executive Director of the Deaf-Hearing Communication Centre and the mayor of North Wales, Pennsylvania. He is the first Deaf person to be elected mayor of a municipality anywhere in the United States. Vadakin is an ASL Professor at Villanova. Gordine is a Board Member of the Pennsylvania State Association of the Deaf and an advocate for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community.
The panel covered panelists’ thoughts on the novel, their own experiences and educational journeys, their perspectives on cochlear implants and the role of advocacy in informing their identity as a Deaf person. Themes including language, community, identity, belonging and acceptance were explored throughout the event.
The panelists began with a discussion of True
A Villanovan’s Guide to Voting: Answering Important Voting FAQ
There are many decisions to make and actions to take when it comes to voting. Will I vote in person? Will I vote by mail? Where is my polling place? Will I vote in my home state or in Pennsylvania? Does it matter where I vote? What is the difference between state representatives and federal representatives? Which policies are important to me? Will my vote count? Before answering these questions, it is important to decide where you will vote and make sure you are registered to vote. It is also
important to understand the different races you are eligible to vote in. As college students, we have the right to vote where we reside. How do I register to vote?
If you have never registered to vote, visit the site below and choose “New Registration.” If you want to change your voter registration to Pennsylvania, choose “New Registration.” If you are previously registered to vote in Pennsylvania but moved off campus or to West Campus, choose “Change Your Address.” Who you can vote for can change even with a move to another building. See the QR code on page three for
more. Can I register at the polls?
No. It is important to know that one must register to vote before Oct. 21, 2024. That is the last day to register to vote. The election is on Nov. 5, 2024, which means the deadline to register to vote is roughly two weeks before the election. Should I vote in my home state, or will I vote in Pennsylvania? As college students, we have the right to vote where we reside. Pennsylvania is a swing state, which means that Republican and Democratic candidates have similar levels of support, and voter outcomes can
play a large role in these states. In contrast to a state like Massachusetts, that has historically voted for Democratic presidential candidates since 1988, Pennsylvania is usually unpredictable. In addition to Pennsylvania, Nevada, Arizona, Michigan, Georgia, North Carolina and Wisconsin are also swing states. Where is my polling place?
According to your address, you are given a specific location at which to vote. Students who live on campus are allowed to vote at the John and Joan Mullen Center for the Performing Arts, across from the Commons. Students who live off
Continued on p. 3
Annual Security and Fire Safety Report Released
Emma Cahill Co-Editor-in-Chief
Content warning: Mentions of domestic violence and rape. On Tuesday, Sept. 30 at 2 p.m., the University’s Department of Public Safety released the 2024 Annual Security and Fire Safety Report (ASR) to all students. This report, distributed every year, is mandated by federal law to be shared with all students and employees. The report features
the University’s Crime Statistics, which are shared in compliance with both federal laws and Pennsylvania state laws in two respective charts. The definitions of crime differ between the two different charts, and so the distribution differs statistically among the two. The crimes listed on these charts are recorded as the year the incident was reported, not necessarily the year the incident occurred.
The report features
statistics about various crimes on campus, breaking down the different categories of crime. Within the statistics themselves, the numbers appear to be extreme in some categories, but are actually influenced by one continuing incident that took place over a couple of years. Otherwise, the numbers are fairly standard when compared to previous reports.
When referencing the breakdown of this year’s statistics, Villanova Director
of Public Safety and Chief of Police, David Tedjeske explained the deviation in the numbers from previous years. The Villanovan spoke with Tedjeske, as well as Title IX Coordinator Ryan Rost, to give context to the unusually high number of incidents.
Continued on p. 5 Continued on p. 14
NOVAdance Hosts Annual Fall Awareness Week p. 3
IfYoureReadingThis: You Are Not Alone p. 13
Students Partner with “Let’s Vote ‘Nova” to Boost Registration p. 4
The Heart of the Matter: A Mother’s Touch p. 14
Fresh Check Day Event Spread Mental Health Resources to Students
Shelf Care: They Wish They Were Us p. 15
Villanova Values Mean Investing in Armenian Advocacy p. 9
Volleyball Starts BE Play, Defeating Georgetown and Seton Hall p. 18
From Parents to Family: A Weekend of Togetherness p. 12
The reports for the categories of “rape” and “domestic violence” are significantly higher than in previous years: the incidence of rape increasing times six, p. 7
Field Hockey Goes 1-1 on the Weekend p. 19
Isabella Balian Political Columnist
On Campus residents can vote at the John and Joan Mullen Center for the Performing Arts come November 6th. Brian Luppy / Villanovan Photography
PUBLIC SAFETY BLOTTER
POSSESION-OTHER (NOT PARAPHENALIA)
Reported and Occurred: 9/25/2024
TOLENTINE HALL
An employee was found in possession of illegal narcotics.
LIQUOR UNDERAGE
Repoprted and Occurred: 9/28/2024
STANFORD HALL
A female resident-student, under the age of 21, was evaluated by VEMS for alcohol intoxication and released to a sober friend.
CORRECTIONS
LIQUOR UNDERAGE
Reported and Occurred: 9/29/2024
SULLIVAN HALL
A male resident student, under 21, was evaluated and transported by Radnor Ambulance to Bryn Mawr Hospital
LIQUOR UNDERAGE, PUBLIC DRUNKEDNESS
Reported and Occurred: 9/29/2024
SOUTH CAMPUS GROUNDS
A male resident student, under the age of 21, was evaluated for alcohol intoxication in a public place. He was transported by Radnor Ambulance to Bryn Mawr Hospital.
LIQUOR UNDERAGE, PUBLIC DRUNKEDNESS
Reported and Occurred: 9/29/2024
STANFORD HALL
A male resident student, under the age of 21, was intoxicated in a public place. He was evaluated by police and released.
LIQUOR UNDERAGE
Reported and Occurred: 9/29/2024
MAIN CAMPUS GROUNDS
A female resident student, under 21 years of age, was evaluated for alcohol intoxication.
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.
2024 Election Issues: Economy
Isabella Carlin Political Columnist
There are many aspects of the United States that will be impacted when a new president enters the Oval Office in January. One of the most prominent issues that is being discussed as Election Day approaches is the economy. The effects of the economy will be felt across the country, including here at 800 E. Lancaster Avenue.
Both the Donald Trump and Kamala Harris campaigns have shared their desired economic plans if they were to secure a victory in November.
According to The Washington Post , Trump has promised to protect Social Security and Medicare, has proposed slashing the corporate tax rate for companies and has mentioned imposing a 10% tariff on all goods imported to the United States and a 60% tariff on goods from China. On his campaign website, he states that he hopes to “end inflation and make America affordable again, stop outsourcing and turn the United States into a manufacturing superpower and supports large tax cuts for workers.”
On the other hand, Harris’ economic goals outline different objectives. According to The Washington Post , she plans to stand with the Biden Administration proposals for Social Security and Medicare but hopes to strengthen it. She has also called for increasing the corporate tax rate and expanding the earned income tax credit. According to the Vice President’s campaign website, she hopes to “cut taxes for middle class families, support American innovation and workers and grow small businesses and invest in entrepreneurs.”
The issue of student loans will impact both current and future Villanovans. According to the Education Data Initiative, student loan debt in the US is an estimated $1.753 trillion. Additionally,
42.8 million borrowers currently have student debt with the average balance being $37,853. The total estimated cost of attendance for the University this academic year is $88,812.
Throughout his campaign, Trump has not mentioned widespread student loan debt cancellation. However, he has supported action to consolidate income-driven repayment plans. During his previous term, Trump did not repeal any major student loan forgiveness plans. The Education Department under Trump rewrote regulations that govern the Borrower Defense to Repayment. Harris has previously backed the Biden Administration’s student-loan forgiveness program. This plan includes loan forgiveness up to $20,000.
However, in August, the Supreme Court temporarily halted the Biden Administration from implementing parts of the SAVE Plan, a method of student debt repayment. On her campaign website, it states, “To date, Vice President Harris has helped deliver the largest investment in public education in American history, provid[ing] nearly $170 billion in student debt relief for almost five million borrowers.” It remains unknown what Harris’ next steps with student loans would be.
“The issue of student loans is one I will be paying attention to when I vote in November,” a Villanova junior female who requested anonymity said. “A Villanova education comes with a price tag and I am curious to see how Harris and Trump address the issue in the coming weeks to students.”
Both candidates’ views and goals for the American economy could sway many votes in the upcoming weeks. Their future policies will have the ability to and likely will play a role in the wallets and lives of many, both in the near and far future, making this an important issue for Villanovans in the election this year.
Situation Critical Panel
Emma Cote Staff Writer
This upcoming election, Villanova students’ votes will largely impact the outcome of the contested 2024 Presidential Election between the Republican ticket, former President Donald Trump and junior Ohio Senator JD Vance, and the Democratic ticket, current Vice President Kamala Harris and current Minnesota governor Tim Walz.
Within the past year, voters across party lines have also witnessed the deteriorating health of the current sitting president, Joe Biden, as several news outlets, politicians and media personalities have highlighted certain moments of concern, particularly during the June 2024 debate against Trump that prompted his exit from the race just over a month later.
This summer already, students have witnessed monumental change and certain abnormalities in regards to the Democratic party’s alteration in candidates. This succession of power was considered alarming for some and necessary for others, but for all nonetheless the change in candidacy was unusual.
As part of the political science departments Fall 2024 election series, this past Wednesday the University hosted a panel entitled, “Fall 2024 Election Series - Situation Critical: Executive Disability and the Dangers We Face.”
The panel aimed to explore the current guidelines for presidential disability and succession and featured a variety of speakers, including Professor James M. Ronan, adjunct professor of political science at Villanova University; John Feerick, J.D., Dean Emeritus and Sidney C. Norris professor of law at Fordham University School of Law; and other legal scholars and professors.
Ronan has also authored the book on the same material,
titled, Living Dangerously: The Uncertainties of Presidential Disability and Succession
Much like the panel, the book serves as a comprehensive review of succession at and beyond the vice presidency in the event that a president is unfit to continue service.
This issue of “who takes over,” the panel explained has impacted the nation since the constitutional convention. In that regard, the exchange of power is not necessarily never-before-seen, but many students reported the change in candidacy alarmed them.
“It’s not even a partisan thing. I voted with the intent to choose the Democratic Party’s nominee in my state’s primary, but it’s like that doesn’t matter,” a student who requested anonymity said.
According to the 25th Amendment, with a two thirds vote of both houses, Congress is able to dictate if a president is unfit to discharge the duties of office. In this instance, the vice president assumes the position of the president if and until the president is able to return to their position.
As the panel ultimately points out, the current model of succession succeeds to promote continuity in the presidential office in the event of disability.
However, there are also several noticeable flaws within the system, as they described the continuous recurring nature of the problem as well as the dangers associated with external actors.
The model for the succession of power is immensely interesting, while also still posing certain concerns in regard to its modern function.
Ultimately, it is intensely crucial to begin discussing these causes for concerns now before they surprise a national audience, an event which many in and out the political world agree is incredibly possible.
A Villanovan’s Guide to Voting: Answering Important Voting FAQs
Isabella Balian Political Columnist
from p.1
campus must vote at their respective polling locations and cannot vote on campus at the Mullen Center.
What races can I vote in and who will be on the ballot?
Villanovans have the opportunity to vote in local and federal races. At the top of the ticket, Villanovans can vote for the President of the United States. We can also vote for Pennsylvania’s U.S. Senator, which will all be the same regardless of where we live on or off campus. Respecting our addresses, we can vote for our Congressperson, state senators and state representatives. We also have the opportunity to vote for Pennsylvania Auditor General and Attorney General.
Vote 411 provides a list of who is on the ballot based on one’s address - see the QR code for more.
What are State Representatives and State Senators?
State legislature works on the state level and passes laws that affect Pennsylvanians. The Pennsylvania House of Representatives work alongside the governor to create laws and establish a state bud-
get. The Pennsylvania House of Representatives has 203 members and is considered the lower chamber of the Pennsylvania General Assembly. All 203 members are up for re-election.
The Pennsylvania State Senate is the upper chamber of the Pennsylvania General Assembly. In 2024, 25 of the 50 state senators are up for re-election. All of the members of the General Assembly of Pennsylvania convene and work in Harrisburg.
The Pennsylvania’s General Assembly website has a list of members by district and their votes on bills. What are Federal Representatives and Federal Senators?
Pennsylvania is separated into 17 Congressional districts, meaning the state of Pennsylvania has 17 Congresspeople and two Senators. Villanova’s campus is separated by two congressional districts represented by Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05) and Congresswoman Madeleine Dean (PA-04). Villanovans will have the chance to re-elect these candidates for the House of Representatives or vote for the respective Republican candidates.
Federal Senators are up for reelection every six years. This year, incumbent (current sitting member), Bob Casey is up for re-election. Villanovans will have the chance to re-elect him or vote for
the Republican candidate, David McCormick. What else is on the ballot?
Attorney General and Auditor General are two other positions on the ballot. The Pennsylvania Department of the Auditor General is responsible for using audits to ensure taxpayer dollars are properly and legally spent. The Pennsylvania Attorney General is the primary law enforcement officer who oversees prosecution of organized crime and corruption. Villanovans can vote for both positions. Does my vote count?
Yes, your vote counts and
your voice is important. Voting in elections is an important way to participate in democracy and advocate for issues you are passionate about. You can vote in a variety of races for many different candidates. These candidates are going to enact laws and create change that can impact your everyday life. What do these candidates believe in?
The Villanovan encourages students to do their research on candidates before casting their vote. Candidates’ legislative policies are easily displayed in their votes, social media posts and on their websites.
NOVAdance Hosts Annual Fall Awareness Week
Lauren Armstrong Co-News Editor
“FTK,” or “For the Kids,” is a phrase individuals may see on the back of sweatshirts and across campus. One may notice little yellow ribbons pinned onto students’ backpacks, or see messages tied with gold ribbon to different door knobs, umbrellas or lamp posts on campus sharing short messages. But what are these for, and what do they mean?
NOVAdance is Villanova’s year-long fundraising campaign for the Andrew McDonough B+ Foundation, which all culminates into the 12-hour dance marathon which takes place every year in March. However, NOVAdance is more than those 12 hours of dancing and fun. It is a year-long effort in which members of the committee, as well as members of Morale Committee, Sidekicks, Engagement Coordinators, Team Captains, Hero Lesions and members of the Villanova Community, come together to spread awareness of the B+ message and mindset on campus.
Sept. 22 marked the beginning of the fall semester awareness week for NOVAdance. The week was filled with events such as selling merchandise, handing out ribbons for awareness, selling flowers, an awareness panel and more.
“The whole point of that week, which we titled awareness week, is just to create our outreach to the Villanova community,” NOVAdance Awareness Chair Meredith Sheftel said. To understand what NOVAdance is doing, and how we are supporting families and
fighting pediatric cancer.”
The week started on Monday, when members of the NOVAdance committee handed out ribbons for people to show their support.
“Monday we completed our Paint the Town Gold Day, we tabled at the Oreo and handed out all of our ribbons for people to put on their backpacks,” Sydney Rinaldi, member of the awareness team on NOVAdance committee, said.
“Every day, different people can see all these gold ribbons and remember what we are fighting for.”
The following day, NOVAdance held a panel which showcased two pediatric nurses as well as Kim Clark, the mother of B+ Hero Harry. Harry, who is paired with Alpha Gamma Delta on campus, was diagnosed with B Cell leukemia in 2020 and has been a part of NOVAdance since he was in treatment.
“Being a parent of a cancer patient, especially during Covid, had been extremely isolating,” Clark said. “Thankfully, one thing with NOVAdance is when they did have events we talked to other cancer parents for the first time. It was crazy, not having to explain or give background, everything already made sense.”
On Wednesday, within a short few hours, all of the NOVAdance merchandise was essentially sold out, and students all around campus were seen with their new hoodies and shirts, showing their support for the organization.
“On Thursday, we hosted Flowers for Heroes,” Sheftel said. “We received a lovely donation from our local Trader Joes and we sold individual flowers for $2, with all
the money being donated to NOVAdance. That day alone we raised over $150. It was very exciting, we would stop friends asking if they wanted to buy a flower and they would respond, you know, ‘I’ve seen these around campus, and I was wondering what it was for,’ and I think that really is they key and kind of like the goal of what awareness week is to have people who not necessarily, you know, on NOVAdance committee, or directly involved with NOVAdance, be able to explain what the message is, and what the organization stands for.”
“I was not sure what organization was selling the flowers I was seeing around campus,” junior Kara McGoldrick said. “My friends and I quickly learned that they were for NOVAdance and had to stop by and get a few. It was so special being able to donate to an amazing cause, and I really enjoyed playing a small role in the awareness for NOVA-
dance.”
NOVAdance does work year-round to ensure that the families and the B+ Heroes matched with Villanova organizations are seen, heard and supported. Whether it is hosting Christmas parties or nail painting events, or larger days such as the B+ Ball and day of dance marathon, the work NOVAdance does on campus does not go unnoticed.
“It has always struck me that college students are this proactive, interested and invested in something that is extra work for them, I think that in my 20s I don’t think I had it together like this,” Clark said. “They take the time to get to know Harry, which seems so much on top of a busy college life and they truly care and know him. He loves spending time with his sorority sisters, and they put in a lot of effort that they wouldn’t even have to. It has made our lives so much easier.”
NOVAdance - Villanova’s year-long fundraising campaign - is getting into full swing ahead of 2025. Liz Miller / Villanovan Photography Continued
Visit the above QR code for a Linktree with further resources discussed in the article. Finn Courtney / Villanovan Digital
Lower Merion & Narberth Dems Host Candidates
Lauren Armstrong Co-News Editor
On Sept. 29, 2024, the Lower Merion & Narberth Democrats hosted a multitude of candidates to endorse Presidential Candidate Kamala Harris, alongside talking about the importance of the national and local elections, which are taking place in less than 40 days.
Big political names such as Senator Elizabeth Warren (DMA), Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA), Representative and Candidate for Auditor General Malcolm Kenyatta (D-PA) and more all stood in front of a large crowd of voters encouraging them to fight for democracy, vote blue, and spread the messages of the Harris campaign to their communities.
For many Villanovans, this is the first presidential election that they will be able to go to the polls and cast their vote. Additionally, an abundance of students will be voting in Pennsylvania, one of the biggest swing states in the nation, instead of their home states. With this, Villanova students are included in the communities being impacted by the local elections, as well as the race for the presidency.
When asked by The Villanovan what her hope for students
voting in their first presidential election in a swing state will know before casting their ballot, Warren delivered her response.
“I hope students will pay attention to who fights for them,” she said. “Kamala Harris and Joe Biden and I have been on the front lines trying to cancel out student loan debt, trying to get more money into education so that they will have opportunities…these are the things that help people build a future economically and that is students: this is how they build a future.”
The event began with Narberth Mayor Andrea Deutsch sharing why, as a Type One diabetic, she supports Harris’ campaign and fight for healthcare rights in America.
“For me, one of the biggest issues is health care, and protecting the rights of people with preexisting conditions,” Deutsch said. “I invite you to find the passion, the one issue that speaks to you, talk about this issue which means that much to you.”
In addition to health care, one of the most critical messages the politicians were pushing was the importance of the individual vote. Representive-turned-Candidate for Auditor General Kenyatta gave his first-hand testimony to this regard. Kenyatta is the first openly LGBTQIA+ individual of
color to serve in the PA general assembly, as well as one of the youngest members in the history of the Commonwealth.
“When I ran for State Representative the first time, a number of years ago, I was in a primary with a lot of people,” Kenyatta said. “A couple of days before the election, they put these homophobic flyers about me all around the district. The day after the election - spoiler alert, I won - I see one of my neighbors and we catch
eye-contact, she said, ‘Malcolm, you know people put these awful flyers up about you…and I am only telling you about it because we were so upset, it got three more people to go out and vote that said they were not going to vote’... I ended up winning our ward on election night by one vote. It is a constant reminder to me of what is at stake and the power that you have to not just read about history in a book or a newspaper, but you get to shape it.”
Students Partner with “Let’s Vote ‘Nova” to Boost Registration
Zoe Garrett Political Columnist
In anticipation of the upcoming presidential election, many Villanovans are collaborating with “Let’s Vote ‘Nova” to share the importance of getting students registered to vote. These students have worked to spread their message across Villanova’s campus through speaking to classes, presenting to their student organizations and tabling in the Oreo. Many of the students involved in this effort share a common characteristic apart from being passionate about voter mobilization: they are in communication professor Dr. Allyson Levin’s Media and Politics class.
Levin has structured this upper-level communications course to work in tandem with “Let’s Vote ‘Nova,” a nonpartisan Villanovan organization which strives to get students to participate in the political process.
“Media and Politics students have been partnering with ‘Let’s Vote ‘Nova’ in several key areas,” Levin said. “The class is in sync with ‘Let’s Vote ‘Nova’s’ initiatives at important moments of the election– from registering to vote to getting students to the polls on Election Day.”
Levin noted that her students have received training on how to distribute important information about the voting process from Villanova staff who work in relevant offices, including the Office of Student Involvement and the Office of Government Relations and External Affairs. The
information distributed from these key on-campus figures inform her students’ presentations to their peers.
One way Levin’s students have been spreading “Let’s Vote ‘Nova’s” message is through presentations to the student organizations in which they are a part.
Junior Amber Werner, for example, chose to present about the importance of voter registration to her sorority, Chi Omega.
“I chose to discuss registering to vote to my sorority because I think it’s incredibly important that everyone, especially women, vote in this election,” Werner said. “Women’s rights and healthcare access will be greatly impacted by this election, and I wanted to make sure all women here at Villanova know how much their voice matters.”
Reflecting on the size of her audience compared to the number of students in a typical academic class, Werner appreciated the opportunity to speak with a bigger group of Villanovans.
“I really enjoyed being able to reach such a large organization,” she said. “It was incredible to know we potentially registered over one hundred new voters.”
Students also have had opportunities to present information regarding voter registration to a number of academic classes throughout the past few weeks.
Junior Peyton Walker recently presented to a communication class and noted the group’s high level of engagement.
“People were super receptive [to the presentation], and the coolest part of the presentation
was that it applies to everyone,” Walker said. “I think most people want to vote but don’t know where to start. The class was attentive and asked questions, so I take it the message was well received.”
When asked about the takeaways Walker hoped the class has from her visit, she emphasized the assistance available on campus to help students vote in this significant election.
“I hope the class remembers that there are so many resources to help them through the voting process, and that they should be proud to have this opportunity,” Walker said.
Students in Levin’s classes have participated in daily tabling efforts to boost the voter registration of Villanovans. Junior Sarah Nejame was one of the many students spreading “Let’s Vote ‘Nova’s” mission in the Oreo last week. Nejame noted how her tabling efforts eased the voter registration process for many students.
“We provided students with an empty copy of the voter registration form that we would aid them in filling out,” Nejame said. “We also provided a stamped
envelope and information on how to address it. This allowed students to simply go to one of the on-campus mailrooms and drop off their voter registration without the added worry of figuring out how to mail it for themselves.”
In addition to simplifying the voter registration process for students, tabling efforts also served other important functions.
“The tabling gives students a resource for their questions, and overall promotes more voting,” she said. “Even just seeing the table on campus serves as a reminder to register. We had a few people pass by and say they didn’t have time to stop, but that the sight of the table reminded them that they needed to register.”
All of “Let’s Vote ‘Nova” and Levin’s efforts, through student presentations and tabling, aim to boost student voter registration and turnout at Villanova.
“I hope the Villanova community at large makes a habit out of voting and can see the connections between our commitment to service and the community in being civically engaged,” Levin said.
Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren fires up voters, encouraging them to vote. Lauren Armstrong / Villanovan Photography
Students, like the three above, are collaborating with “Let’s Vote ‘Nova” this election season. Courtesy of @letsvotenova on Instagram
Annual Security and Fire Safety Report Released
Emma Cahill Co-Editor-in-Chief
Continued from p.1
and domestic violence increasing by an additional 400 counts. However, this increase is not due to a general increase in the amount of crime on campus. Instead, Tedjeske explained that these unusually high numbers are due to a single report involving a two-year-long abusive dating relationship that took place between 2018 and 2020.
This incident was reported to the Department of Public Safety in December of 2023. The report came from a faculty member, who initially learned from a student that she had been in a two-year relationship characterized by physical abuse and sexual violence. The abusive relationship took place three years prior to the reporting date, and the alleged assailant no longer attended Villanova at the time it was reported to the University. The faculty member notified the Title IX office, which led to a meeting between the complainant and Tedjeske.
In this meeting, the University Department of Public Safety worked with the complainant to estimate the counts of rape and domestic violence that had occurred within the two years of their relationship. These counts include only incidents that occurred on campus. Both students lived on
campus for most of their time at Villanova, though the report may leave out some of the violence incurred in the alleged assailant’s off-campus residence for a period of time. After the meeting between Tedjeske and the female student, she declined to partake in a criminal investigation or prosecution. Now, both the complainant and the alleged assailant have graduated from the University and are no longer on campus.
Ordinarily, the number of reported rapes per year would be around 10, according to Tedjeske. Within the federal crime statistics report, the numbers in the “rape” category are much larger than normal. Fifty-six of the 66 reported rapes are due to this single report. Additionally, 415 of the 418 incidents in the “Domestic Violence” category were reported within that one case. The singular incident of aggravated assault in this report was a result of this relationship as well. According to Tedjeske, the aggravated assault was similar in the nature of the other assaults, and no weapons were involved. The result of the aggravated assault resulted in serious injury for the complainant.
Comparatively, the mandated crime report for the state of Pennsylvania has no set category for domestic or dating violence. The domestic violence cases from the federal chart show up on this chart as “Other Assault.” All but
10 of the 425 reports of “Other Assault” are attributed to the single report from this two-year relationship.
In response to this report of assault, as well as the other incidents of sexual and domestic violence on campus, both Tedjeske and Rost emphasized the importance of bystander intervention in regards to relationship violence.
“Sometimes people are hesitant to get involved if they see signs of an unhealthy relationship,” Rost said. “Helping a friend in an unhealthy relationship is hard and people may think it is none of their business. It is important to be supportive of friends and come from a place of care and concern. Villanova provides various programs and campaigns designed to promote a healthy campus culture and strategies to identify and prevent relationship and sexual violence.”
This report of domestic and sexual violence follows what has been an influx of sexual assault reports disclosed in the month of September. The news of an Uber driver raping a female Commons resident, as well as the recent civil lawsuit filed against the University in a federal sexual assault case, has created notable discussion within the Villanova community surrounding safety concerns on campus.
In light of these events, Tedjeske and the Department of Public Safety are actively working on improving physical security on
campus. Tedjeske shared that some future changes include an initiative to replace all of the blue light systems across campus over the next several years. This includes a new project to add nine new blue light phones on South Campus, including two new ones on the Wildcat Path. According to Tedjeske, the new phones have integrated video cameras and speakers that will announce Nova Alert messages. Other safety initiatives include the addition of metal detectors at all major events and testing the functionality of doors on campus. As part of this project, the Department of Public Safety is working on replacing external doors in St. Mary’s Hall with new ones. Additionally, students are encouraged to report malfunctioning doors or other security concerns to Chief Tedjeske at David. tedjeske@villanova.edu.
“We are continuously working to improve safety and security,” Tedjeske said. “Whether that be physical security, such as cameras, Wildcard and license plate readers or through the deployment of our staff, focused patrols in certain areas, or through policy changes… We also identify areas where we believe there needs to be additional physical security in place.”
For more information on this year’s security report, please visit: https://www1.villanova. edu/university/public-safety/ reports-policies/annual-security-fire-safety-report-2024.html
Students Weigh in on Global Women’s Rights Issues
Caroline Mugno Staff Writer
In the busy political climate that Americans find themselves in today, many pressing news stories are overlooked by pressures to focus on the upcoming election, the war in Gaza and Ukraine and other various domestic and international conflicts.
Among these stories is the acceleration of a “gender apartheid,” according to the Women’s Regional Network, in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. Since the terrorist organization known as the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 2021, there has been a long and detailed timeline of rights that have been stripped away from women under the guise of “vice and virtue laws.”
According to the United States Institution for Peace, on July 5, the police force in Daikundi announced that women must be covered from head to toe in Arabic hijab with violators facing punishment and imprisonment. On July 17, authorities of Vice and Virtue in Faryab banned women from all public parks. On July 31, the Taliban issued one of its most severe bans which was a restriction on women’s voices in public.
While most Americans are in the dark about the uptake in severity in assault on women’s rights in Afghanistan, some have spoken out against these laws.
Award-winning American actress Meryl Streep spoke at the Unit -
ed Nations meeting in New York urging world leaders to focus on this human right crisis on Monday, Sept. 23.
“Today in Kabul, a female cat has more freedoms than a woman,” she said. “A cat may go sit on her front stoop and feel the sun on her face. She may chase a squirrel into the park. A squirrel has more rights than a girl in Afghanistan today.”
Villanovans are no exception to the majority of Americans who are in the dark or know very little of the atrocities affecting every aspect of a woman’s life in Afghanistan.
A sense of helplessness, sadness and lack of knowledge on the subject was the general consensus among students, proving our political climate is selective in what takes precedence.
“I was aware that women’s rights were very limited in the Middle East but I didn’t know how grave the situation has become over the last year,” junior communication student Erica Wessels said.
“I can’t believe something this devastating is happening and there’s barely any media coverage on it,” junior marketing student Alexandra Fay said. “This is a very disappointing display of bias.”
“My family is Syrian, so I have always stayed in touch with the news and current events of the Middle East,” junior Nashla Estefan said. “I am disgusted by what’s going on because there is no space
for your gender to play a role in what you can say, wear or even do as a person. One’s gender should never be a reason to be silenced.”
These issues may seem distant from life at Villanova, but students here have more power and resources to make a difference than they often realize. By leveraging the unique opportunities and platforms available to them, Villanova students can play a significant role in addressing these global challenges. It is crucial not only to educate oneself on women’s rights through research and staying informed but also to take the next step in understanding
how to get involved, whether by supporting organizations, raising awareness, or advocating for change.
“She’s the First” is a non-profit organization with an independent chapter at Villanova University that advocates for the global respect, education, and empowerment of women and girls. The chapter focuses on fostering discussions about issues affecting women and girls worldwide, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are upheld. This organization is an excellent place to start involvement right here on campus.
Villanova students can use their platform to support Afghan girls’ fight for education. Courtesy of Shutterstock
Lepage Center Hosts Panel: State and Fate of Democracy
Simon Kidane Staff Writer
Villanova’s Albert Lepage Center held a panel on Tuesday, Sept. 24 discussing the State and Fate of American Democracy regarding the impending 2024 elections.
The main purpose of the event was to add historical context and perspective to this year’s election.
The Villanovan spoke with Dr. Kevin Mattson of Ohio University.
“[The main purpose of the event was] to address the growing sense that American Democracy is under threat,” Mattson said.
He also said that the main takeaway from the event was that democracy has faced crises in the past, and that we may be able to overcome the troubles of the present election, such as “a weird acceptance of crazy ideas being trumpeted.”
Mattson said that he hopes we can inject more rationality into our public sphere. He explained that the current election consists of “just more acceptance of corrupt rhetoric and conspiracy theories than before.”
Mattson was focused specifically on the de-intellectualization of elections, explaining that “we must be wary of how Trump and other politicians’ anti-intellectualism as a strategy to lure voters who are disaf-
fected with elites.”
Isaac Smith, a fellow at the Lepage Center, said that Dr. Michael Kazin of Georgetown University said that “we live in a moment of political polarization where both sides see the other as a threat to democracy.”
Smith also stated that Dr. Kira Sanbonmatsu of Rutgers University said that “We have to look at politics and political through a gendered lens. Women are underrepresented in electoral politics, but the
Harris candidacy is an essential moment for changing this entrenched dynamic.”
“Political polarization, gender and politics, and anti-intellectualism are dominant themes in the upcoming presidential election,” Smith said. “This election is unprecedented because it is the first time that a Black woman has secured the DNC nomination (keeping history in mind, this would be unthinkable in the 20th century). The Black turnout will likely rival Obama’s 2012 run, and the
Supreme Court’s abortion decision will also affect women’s turnout, As Dr. Sanbonmatsu said in the event. The age old question: Is America ready for a woman president? Seems to be answered.”
Trump voters find issues such as the economy, immigration, and violent crime to be the most pressing, while Harris voters are more focused on health care, appointments to the Supreme Court and abortion. Other notable observations were the fact that only 18 percent of Trump supporters said that racial and ethnic inequality was very important, and only 11 percent said the same about climate change. Harris voters were far less concerned with immigration as Trump voters, with a gap of 39 percent to 82 percent.
Issues like immigration and abortion have become increasingly important over the last four years. Abortion has also risen in importance since the overturning of Roe v. Wade.
The panel at Villanova’s Albert Lepage Center shed light on the critical issues shaping the 2024 election, from political polarization to gender dynamics and anti-intellectualism.
As the nation heads toward a pivotal vote, the discussion underscored the need for thoughtful and informed civic engagement.
University Receives Bequest: More Than $11 Million
Ava Petrosky Staff Writer
Villanova University has received an endowment of more than $11 million from the late Bernard John Lucci. From 2005 to 2012, Lucci was an avid participant in the College of Professional Studies’ (CPS) Senior Citizen Personal Enrichment Program. Through this program, he took 10 Italian culture and language courses through the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS). At the age of 86, he passed away in 2023. As part of his last will and testament, he has granted the University this gift. Based upon Lucci’s studies and passions during his time as a Villanovan, the donation will be distributed between the College of Professional Studies, the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and the new Falvey Library at Vic Maggitti Hall.
“We are deeply grateful for Mr. Lucci’s gift and honored by his belief in the power of the Villanova experience,” University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A., Ph.D. said in the University press release. “Mr. Lucci’s restless pursuit of knowledge and humble generosity stand as a remarkable example to us all.”
Five million dollars will be granted to the College of Professional Studies’ Senior Citizen Personal Enrichment Program. The program allows individuals ages 65 and older to enroll in undergraduate college courses within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Because of Lucci’s previous involvement, the program will be named in his remembrance: the Bernard John Lucci Senior Citizen Personal
Enrichment Program. This is the largest donation in the College’s history. His gift will help fund the college, thereby strengthening CPS’s mission to serve non-traditional and adult learners.
“At the College of Professional Studies, we are grateful for Mr. Lucci’s generosity and honored to pass on his love of learning to students for years to come,” Christine Kelleher Palus, Ph.D., Dean, Villanova University College of Professional Studies said in an email to Personal Enrichment studies. “This gift will ensure that the program that now bears Mr. Lucci’s name, along with many others in CPS that will benefit as well, can continue to educate students in the Augustinian tradition, rooted in our core values of Veritas, Unitas and Caritas.”
The bequest will also establish the new Bernard John Lucci Endowed Chair in Italian Studies within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
“We are honored by Mr. Lucci’s generosity,” Adele Lindenmeyr, Ph.D., William and Julia Moulden Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, said in the CLAS press release. “The establishment of the Bernard John Lucci Chair in Italian Studies will not only advance scholarship in a field that held special significance to Mr. Lucci, but also reflects our commitment to fostering a global perspective. Dr. McCall is an accomplished scholar in Italian Studies whose research and teaching will undoubtedly enhance the program through this new role.”
Timothy McCall, Ph.D., Professor of Art History and Director of the Art History Program, has been appointed as the inaugural
Lucci Chair.
“I’m very excited. It’s a great opportunity for my research,” McCall said. “I think it will definitely benefit students in future classes. It’s great for the study of Italy and the study of Italian history and art history generally.”
McCall is currently on sabbatical in Italy, furthering his research in Italian Renaissance Art History. He will return to campus next fall.
“It [the bequest] will give me a lot more time to research in Italy, so that I will be able to produce more scholarship,” McCall said. “I do hope that this affords the opportunity for other faculty members to engage with and spend more time in Italy as well, eventually.”
The remaining portion of the bequest will be devoted to the new Falvey Library at Vic Maggitti Hall. The Bernard John Lucci
Doctoral and Graduate Office Suite, a space designated for graduate and doctoral students, will be named in his honor.
“As an Augustinian Catholic university, Villanova is dedicated to fostering intellectual curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning among its students, ideals personified by Mr. Lucci,” Patrick G. Maggitti, Ph.D. said in the University press release. “His generous bequest will have a broad impact on our community, enhancing the academic experiences of countless undergraduate, graduate and personal enrichment students.”
Villanova is grateful for the generosity bestowed by Lucci. As the bequest is distributed among the College of Professional Studies, the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and the forthcoming Vic Maggitti Hall, Lucci’s legacy will always be remembered throughout campus.
The Albert Lepage Center consistently hosts thought-provoking panels to stir discussion. Courtesy of Villanova University
The University recieved an estate gift of $11 million from the late Bernard John Lucci. Courtesy of Villanova University
“Fresh Check Day” Promotes Mental Health on Campus
Jasmine Srivastava Staff Writer
On Tuesday, Sept. 24, the Office of Health Promotion hosted a new event on campus called “Fresh Check Day.” The event was held between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Riley Ellipse in the heart of campus.
“In honor of September being National Suicide Prevention Month, the Office of Health Promotion and the Mental Health and Well-Being Committee decided it would be the perfect time to bring Fresh Check Day to Villanova,” Kristy McCarthy, Associate Director of the Office of Health Promotion, said.
The goal of Fresh Check Day was for students to check in with their mental health and make the University’s mental health resources and clubs on campus more accessible.
McCarthy hosted the event and brought it to campus.
“Fresh Check Day, the signature program of the Jordan Porco Foundation, is an uplifting mental health promotion and suicide prevention event for colleges that includes interactive expo booths, peer-to-peer messaging, support of multiple campus departments and groups, free food, entertainment and exciting prizes and giveaways,” McCarthy said.
At the event, various resources and organizations, including POWER, Title IX, EC Reps, Public Safety and more, came to the table. Many students from these organizations also came and tabled.
One of the student groups featured at the event was the
Bandana Project. The club aims to help spread on- and off-campus resources to students struggling with mental health and build community among students.
Katie Formato, a part of The Bandana Project, shared their activity for the event.
“Our theme for Fresh Check Day was ‘The Elephant in the Room,” she said. “It is this idea that everyone struggles with mental health, but it is still the elephant in the room because many do not feel comfortable talking about mental health due to the stigma. One of the goals of the Bandana Project is to build a community of people, and with our activity, we feel that we were able to accomplish that goal in our activity.”
“I think this event will help students release the stigma around mental health,” McCarthy said.
Another activity featured
at the front of the Oreo was the “Take the Pledge” board. McCarthy shared that one in 10 college students contemplates taking their life, which means nine out of 10 people can help each person who is struggling. By signing the board, students are taking the pledge to support others who are struggling with suicidal thoughts.
“I think Fresh Check Day allowed students to learn more about the resources on campus in a fun, engaging way,” Formato said when asked if the event impacted students. “The activities were a great way for students to learn about campus resources, and I thought that the event also created a comfortable space for students to learn and talk about mental health. Some students may not have known about some of the resources we have on campus so Fresh Check Day was a great way for Villanova partners to share
their resources.”
During the event, students checked in at the registration table, where they received a stamp card.
Every time they participated in an activity, they received a stamp. As students filled out their cards, they arrived back at the check-in booth to enter a raffle for a variety of prizes.
The prizes included 100-dollar gift cards to the Refectory and the Villanova Bookstore, and season tickets to men’s basketball games. The winners were announced on the Office of Health Promotion’s Instagram.
“The event was a great success that attracted hundreds of students from across campus” McCarthy said.
The consensus among students held that the event was a success. Everyone felt the impact of having all the resources accessible and highlighted in an interactive setting.
“I thought that the day was very successful, and it was great to see all of the students who came and participated in the activities at each table,” Formato said. “I think that it could be beneficial for Villanova to do something similar to Fresh Check Day each month because it could give students the opportunity to learn about the resources on campus and their upcoming events. It also gives students a way to engage in a fun activity and take a break from their busy day.”
To learn more about events like Fresh Check Day and the many resources the Office of Health Promotion offers, visit its website or follow it on Instagram, @villanovahealth.
Debut Novelist and Former Professor Returns to Campus
Katie Bryda Staff Writer
Though Elysha Chang’s debut novel, A Quitter’s Paradise, has been published for more than a year, she finally had the opportunity to return to campus to discuss her novel. A former professor in the Creative Writing Department, Chang taught for four years at Villanova, all of which she spent penning draft after draft of her novel, saying of the drafts, “There must be some shape I can’t see.”
The intimate Q&A, taking place in the Falvey Speaker’s Corner, provided significant information about Chang’s writing process. She was introduced by professor Alan Drew, Director of the Creative Writing Program, and he spoke to her immense talent within the department. She spoke on the challenges of writing a novel while teaching but also in trusting one’s own process of writing. And though she was writing her novel while a faculty member of the University, Chang said it took a total of eight years from the idea to the physical book.
Chang’s book was picked up as the first novel to be published by Sarah Jessica Parker (yes, Carrie Bradshaw herself) and her publish-
ing imprint, SJP Lit.
Dr. Yumi Lee of Villanova was in conversation with Chang for the majority of the event, where she noted that Chang’s work was incredibly “layered.” Chang’s book touches on different aspects of family, career and romance within the main character’s life. But Chang said the book is “ultimately a story about an immigrant family.” The two were in conversation after a reading from Chang’s book, where they not only touched on the creative method, but also the expectations of writing a novel about an Asian-American woman.
When asked during the Q&A portion, Chang alluded to the internal pressures she felt while writing the novel.
“A lot is asked of an Asian-American domestic novel,” Chang said of the publishing world.
One of her large goals while writing was to take apart and reconstruct Asian-American stereotypes, especially pertaining to Asian women. Her novel is multi-faceted, exploring many different themes, especially with Chang coming from an immigrant family herself.
She drew on her own experiences as a child of Taiwanese immigrants, as well as her experiences
in the professional world, though she doesn’t work in an animal testing lab like her main character. And through this novel, noting the stereotypes of Asian-American women, Chang made it her mission for the main character to be intentionally unlikeable. She specifically noted that she wanted to deconstruct these stereotypes in a way that hadn’t been done before, but was still interesting to her. And while the reader watches the main
character make worse and worse decisions, you can’t help but have sympathy for her situation. Though this is Chang’s first published project, it won’t be her last. She is working on a non-fiction novel distinctly different from her debut narrative. And as she signed copies of her book for students, she encouraged everyone to continue exploring their writing journeys, and she hopes to return to campus soon.
Villanova students took the pledge to be aware and speak up about mental health issues. Courtesy of @villanovaofsl
Elysha Chang read from her debut novel as a part of Falvey Library’s Dig Deeper series. Victoria Margenat/Villanovan Photography
Meet the Candidates: Class of 2028 Senate Race
Lauren Armstrong Co-News Editor
With the semester nearing the halfway mark, it is time for members of the Class of 2028 to begin their adventure into involvement and leadership on Villanova’s campus.
One of the most popular ways to become a known individual on campus, and to make a difference within the community, is to run for the Student Government Association’s (SGA) Senate seats. Each fall, multiple first-year students run for the highly-contested six seats allotted to freshmen to have a voice and make waves of positive change at Villanova.
Voting for the Senate opens on Wednesday, Oct. 2, and the winners will be announced later the same week.
This year, 12 first-year students have put their name in the race, in order to grow as involved individuals and ignite change. JP Rogerson, Elizabeth Howard, Miles Kim, Maya Mathews, Kathleen Heraty, Federico Diaz, Matthias Miller, Luis Jimenez, Brady Keane, Maceo Crump, Victoria Myers and Nicholas DeRosa are this year’s prospective representatives, and they all come promising that they are the best fit for the Senate seats.
The candidates all shared their written submissions with The Villanovan on why their fellow classmates in the Class of 2028 should vote for them.
“[You should vote for me] because I have just arrived at Villanova, and am just settling in after the first month, it is impossible for me to know exactly what the student body is looking for,” Rogerson said. “In my opinion, the best way to do so is to be an open and accessible leader.”
According to Howard, the mission of inclusiveness is her top priority.
“I am running for the Freshman Senate to bring fresh ideas and
bold solutions to the Villanova community,” she said. “I believe in the power of collaboration and inclusivity, and I am committed to ensuring all students feel valued and respected.”
Kim wants to ensure that the Class of 2028 knows his goals. “I will listen to them and what they feel about Villanova, and take note if there needs to be change to Villanova or not,” Kim said. “My campaign will be centered on listening to the needs of the freshman body and making sure every freshman opinion is held accountable and heard by the Student Government Association.”
The overall theme of unity and representation is what Mathews is running her campaign on.
“By engaging with other freshmen, the most important outcome is building and fostering a strong sense of community among our class,” Mathews said. “I want to find out what is important to my peers, which will ultimately enable me to make an impact that affects the most people.”
Heraty comes bearing big dreams and ideas to help not only the freshman class, but all students at Villanova.
“My goals if selected on the Freshman Senate would be to provide better housing maintenance, consistent pricing and increased transportation on the shuttle,” Heraty said.
For Diaz, this opportunity to serve on the Student Government Association is one he is looking forward to and he has many goals he would like to achieve.
“The goals of my campaign are to help better understand the needs and wants of the student body,” Diaz said. “One of my personal concerns is safety and comfort.”
Miller wishes his classmates to feel comfortable around him, and to help create a community within the Class of ‘28.
“It brings me joy when my peers feel comfortable coming to me and expressing challenges or issues
they have experienced on campus,” Miller said. “That means that I have established an intimate bond or relationship with them, that they feel okay being vulnerable with me, something I want to foster with all in my grade.”
Jimenez’s message is to ensure that no one goes unnoticed and feels overlooked.
“I want to help make Villanova a community where it is encouraged to walk up to people whom you do not know and go in with the mindset of building a strong, authentic connection,” Jimenez said.
Keane emphasized the intentions of her campaign.
“The intention of my campaign is to energize students to get involved in and [be] made aware of the upcoming Freshman Senate Election,” Keane said. “I want to be a part of the Student Government Association because I want to put myself into a position where I can give back to and help the Villanova community.”
Crump is running on similar terms.
“My goals are, simply put, to collect information on what the concerns and unaddressed needs of the freshman population,” Crump said. “I want to learn about any potential changes my fellow students would like
to see implemented and then I’d like to be the rational and articulate voice to present these ideas to SGA on their behalf.”
SGA works year round to address a variety of topics and issues surrounding the Villanova community. A recent achievement has been the addition of personal mental health days for all classes.
Myers would like to help make waves for the next forms of change.
“I want to be a part of the Student Government Association because I know what it takes to be a leader,” Myers said. “I have experience in numerous leadership roles in my life and community, and I am willing to do what it takes to have our class’s voice heard.”
The final candidate, DeRosa, wants to inform the Villanova freshman class why he would be the best to fill a Senate seat.
“As an SGA Senator, I hope to act as a delegate on behalf of the Freshman class, advocating for them by proposing bills and voting on legislation,” DeRosa said. “As a freshman senator, I hope to create and pass a bill which will mobilize campus resources to open a Holy Grounds on South Campus.”
Embracing Diversity: Villanova Celebrates Inclusion Week
Keira Devine Staff Writer
This past week, from Sept. 23 to Sept. 27, Villanova’s Student Government Association (SGA) hosted its annual Inclusion Week. There were various events around campus that strived to promote inclusion and understanding, following Villanova’s message of diversity, equity and inclusion.
Inclusion Week strives to highlight many of the marginalized groups on campus, in all aspects.
From women’s leadership-themed Quizzo, to pronoun bracelet-making, to Hispanic Heritage Night in Donahue Hall, this week represented awareness and acceptance on campus.
Kirti Kaur, the Director of Inclusion Week 2024, spoke on the events.
“The Inclusion Week Initiative aims to raise awareness of organizations that support and advocate for marginalized and underrepresented peoples and promote the various resources
available to students from these groups,” Kaur said.
The week is for all Villanovans to enjoy and be educated, but works towards a deeper purpose of providing opportunities for organizations that may be more overlooked.
“Many multicultural and affinity-based student organizations get negligible funding from the school, which hinders their ability to organize student events,” Kaur said. “We aim to bridge the financial gap and bring resources and programming support to such organizations to create a week of fun and educational events.”
The Inclusion Week Committee is composed of five teams: Directors; Events and Entertainment; Marketing and Communications; Student and Professional Outreach; and Engagement.
The student staff worked tirelessly to organize the events of Inclusion Week, as Kaur said.
“An intensive amount of outreach, budgeting and programming work goes into fitting more than twenty events into only five days,” Kaur said.
Inclusion Week concluded
with the Inclusion Week Festival on Friday, Sept. 27, also serving as the beginning to Family Weekend.
“Perhaps the hardest thing to plan during Inclusion Week is our Inclusion Week Festival,” Kaur said. “This year, [we had] music, food trucks from different cultures, carnival attractions and a stroll fest involving cultural -
ly-based fraternal organizations.” Overall, inclusion week was a huge success, highlighting groups on campus that support and advocate for underrepresented and marginalized peoples. SGA’s commitment to upholding the values of diversity, equity and inclusion really shone through this past week.
Villanova cultural dance troupes perform for the SGA run Inclusion Week. Josey Wiggins/Villanovan Photography
Student Government Association members gear up for first year Senate elections. Courtesy of @sgavillanova
OPINION
Villanova’s Values Mean Investing in Armenian Advocacy
Isabella Balian Staff Writer
Santerian Staff Writer
Last September, about 200,000 Artsakhsis, ethnic Armenians living in the independent region of Artsakh (also known as Nagorno-Karabakh), migrated to proper Armenia after having no choice but to leave their old lives behind.
To set the scene, one must look back to Dec. 12, 2022 when Azerbaijan began the blockade of the Lachin corridor, the sole road connecting Artskah to not only Armenia proper, but to the rest of the world. Under the ruse of “ecoactivists,” the blockade deprived Artsakhsi men, women and children of food, gas, medical supplies and all other life-sustaining materials needed for survival.
Cellular lines and WiFi were disconnected, not allowing Artsakhsis to communicate to the outside world. Electricity and gas lines were shut off for 23 hours of the day in the dead of winter. In the face of abandonment, as the world ignored this humanitarian crisis.
Artsakhsis did not surrender their sacred, historical and ethnically-Armenian land easily. On Sept. 30, 2023, after nine months, two weeks and four days of the blockade, Artsakh surrendered. Immediately following the surrender, 99% of the population
of Artsakh fled the region in fear of ethnic cleansing that would follow if they remained. The Armenian government initially expected a total of about 40,000 refugees to immigrate following the surrender of Artsakh. This was the single-day inflow on Sept. 27 alone. As of today, virtually no Artsakhsis are currently living in Azerbaijan-occupied Artsakh. As of Jan. 1, 2024, the Republic of Artsakh was officially dissolved. The resemblance to the Armenian Genocide is uncanny. During the Armenian Genocide, Armenians were forcefully displaced for their lands and were subjected to walking miles across the desert with only the item they would carry with them. In 2023, Artsakhsis were forced out of their homes and embarked on the journey to Armenia, with their entire lives squeezed into the trunks and strapped onto the roofs of
their cars. Similar to the way that Armenian intellectuals were taken to jails and/or killed during the Genocide, Azerbejian has taken many Artsakh officials into unjustified custody, most of whom remain in the Azeri jails to this day.
As the granddaughters of genocide survivors, it is our responsibility to speak up about the unlawful and inhumane tragedies committed against the Armenian people to prevent history from repeating itself. The disproportionate coverage of news is an unfortunate fact of the world, and the American climate of advocacy. As diasporan Armenians, we can use our voices to speak out against the humanitarian crisis in our homeland in hopes that one day, the world will recognize this tragedy for what it is.
During the Armenian Genocide of 1915, journalists and reporters documented the massa -
cre of 1.5 million Armenians. In 2020, it was naive to say that our use of technology and widespread news outlets could save Artsakh. We see now that technological advancement does not necessarily mean the advancement of society’s morality.
As a part of the Armenian diaspora, Armenian student organizations across countless college campuses have established communities to surround themselves with other Armenians and to speak up for the people of our homeland who do not have a voice for themselves. Villanova’s values of truth, unity and love command us to invest in advocacy.
Last semester, our advocacy group hosted a teach-in on Armenia and Artsakh and the unfolding of the conflict. We hosted panelists, Khatchig Mouruadian, Christine Momjian, Dr. Ara Chalian and Dr. Mark Schrad. We discussed the political, social and historical realms of ethnic cleansing and genocide. We are grateful to the panelists, students and Philadelphia Armenian community that took a night and dedicated it to advocacy. We are grateful and proud of the Villanova community for showing up and coming in with open minds.
We are not done now or ever. Our advocacy must continue and Villanova must continue to invest in its underrepresented organizations. There are worldwide humanitarian crises and as Villanova students, we must reflect on our values of truth, unity and love in light of these events.
Building Bonds: The Benefits of Group Projects
Gabrielle Mazzini Staff Writer
When students hear a professor announce the proposal for group projects, mixed feelings flood the room. Some emit grunts and roll eyes. Others smile and cheer. In the fastpaced world of today, teamwork and collaboration are important factors that contribute to learning. Not only do group projects foster new connections with people and academic achievement, but they also teach valuable skills such as communication, reliability and responsibility. Although some view groupwork with distaste and annoyance, I can assure students that working together is beneficial not just for the success of today, but also for creating achievement in the future. Group projects enhance learning because of the required collaboration and discussion with other people. For example, last semester, students in GEV 1051 participated in a semester-long research project accompanied by their peers and their lab advisors.
“[The group project was an] excellent way to get to know my classmates on a more personal level, as well as enhance my overall learning of the course,” sophomore environmental science student Leila Monks said. Monks worked on her project with four fellow environmental
science students, conducting research on transportation to three different locations around Villanova.
“The project also gave me more confidence around my classmates as I knew I gained more support from them after working with them for so long,” Monks said.
The skills of public speaking, peer support and social interaction are not only ones that can be gained from group projects as a college student now, but can also accompany one further in their future endeavors and professions.
Students also find collaboration to reap benefits in other areas, such as through classwork or homework. Sophomore chemical engineering student Kylah Rice expressed her appreciation toward homework collaboration.
“I like it because it is low commitment so it’s easy to find a time to work with the group,” Rice said. “It is helpful to work through problems together because usually the hardest part is figuring out where to start, and you can work together for that to foster the ability to set up the problems.”
This assignment boosted creativity and brainstorming, which is another reason why group projects are valuable. In Rice’s experience, groups can pool their resources together to begin a problem, leading to optimal outcomes. Being able to interact with
other people and collaborate with them enables one to effortlessly work with people in the future after college. Also, the art of brainstorming leads to more innovative and more creative solutions for the group, overall.
Group collaboration also leads to the improvement of social skills and relationships. Sophomore Dylan Dickensheets shared how a new friendship blossomed from a group project last year.
“We had all our classes together and got assigned a project to work on last year,” Dickensheets said. “This year, we now meet to do our homework, and we wouldn’t have been friends if it weren’t for that project.”
In Dickensheets’ experience, spending time with others while
collaborating on a shared assignment created a lasting friendship that she maintains to this day. These social skills of forming and maintaining relationships are important to navigate life, and she acquired them from the assignment.
These benefits illuminate why group projects are not just an educational tool nor an annoying requirement from college professors, but a vital component towards an individual’s personal and professional development. Without them, students wouldn’t form communication skills, newfound relationships or collaboration methods. By embracing these annoying assignments, one might find themselves with new friends, new experiences as well as new and unexpected strengths.
Villanova needs to continue to support underrepresented organizations on campus. Graydon Paul / Villanovan Photography
Nicole
Students will often work on group projects on campus in places like the library. Brian Luppy / Villanovan Photography
EDITORIAL BOARD LETTERS TO THE EDITORS
EMMA CAHILL
HANNAH SWEENEY
BROOKE ACKERMAN
AVERY CHALK
KAILEY FAHY
Editor-in-Chief
Editor-in-Chief
Associate Editor-in-Chief
Opinion Editor
Opinion Editor
The Villanovan encourages all members of the Villanova community to voice their opinions. Letters to the editors may be submitted via e-mail to villanovan.eic@gmail.com. Letters must not exceed 500 words and must be signed. No anonymous letters will be published. All submissions become property of The Villanovan and are subject to editing for clarity and space.
POLICY
The unsigned editorial that appears is the opinion of The Villanovan as determined by the majority of the Editorial Board. Other columns, letters and artwork represent the opinions of their authors and do not necessarily reflect the position of The Villanovan.
Villanova Needs Fast Food Options On Campus
Peter Fabietti Staff Writer
We’ve all been there. After a long, grueling week of classes, sometimes all we want is a rewarding meal to combat the immense stress we can feel throughout the week. And, honestly, the dining halls get old after a while. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good burrito bowl from Cova or some General Tso’s chicken from Belle Air. However, eating the same, run-of-themill food over and over again can get quite exhausting. I need variety in my diet, or else I start to go a bit insane. Therefore, when confronted with the question of whether it is worth adding fast food chains on campus, I am undoubtedly in favor of doing so.
Personally, I’m not a huge fan of notoriously unhealthy fast food chains like McDonald’s and Taco Bell, but I think adding some higher-quality chains to the campus would be invaluable. Places such as Panera Bread, Chick-fil-A, Honeygrow and Sweetgreen offer a variety of food options, and they are generally regarded as higher-quality in comparison to the aforementioned. Even if they were only open on the weekends, these places would offer a nice break from the same old campus food, and they would be something to look forward to over the weekend.
With so much space under the Commons buildings, a few fast food places could certainly be added in these spots. Close to the center of campus, these places would be
easily accessible for most Villanova residents, allowing for quick-and-easy pickup.
“They should put them in the old library on the bottom floor,” sophomore Maggie Coia said, suggesting yet another place one or two of these fast food places could go.
With Holy Grounds already having a location there, I am certain another fast food option would do well in this spot.
Residents Emily Walsh and Brian Teeter are in favor of a Chick-
fil-A on campus.
“We made the step with Starbucks, so I feel like the next logical step would be to add something like a Chick-fil-A,” Teeter said.
Some of my friends who go to other colleges have Chick-fil-A on their campuses, and they absolutely love it. If it can work on other campuses, certainly it can work at Villanova, right?
“I would like to have a Playa Bowls on campus because the current smoothie options on campus are very
limited,” sophomore Ava Felice said, concerned about not getting enough fresh fruit on campus.
However, some residents are skeptical about adding fast food to Villanova.
“It takes business away from local places that honestly have better food,” Fatima Salman said.
While this is a valid claim, there are many fast food places, such as Sweetgreen and Honeygrow, that have locations very close to campus. Many residents already DoorDash from these places, so adding them on campus would be a cheaper and more convenient way to get the same food. Plus, these businesses would likely increase their profit if they made their food even more accessible than it already is.
“I think that adding some fast food chains would be nice, but honestly, I’d rather the school put more money into improving the quality of the dining halls,” sophomore Luke Fabietti said.
Perhaps the school’s way of putting more money into the dining halls could be adding a fast food chain or two within them. To make things even more convenient, these fast food places could take meal swipes. I know that many people, including myself, have too many meal swipes left by the end of the week as a result of ordering from fast food places. Therefore, if meal plans covered fast food places on campus, many more students would use up their meals and get their money’s worth.
Villanova should consider this and add fast food chains to campus.
Villanova Needs More, Reliable Printers
alike are opting for alternatives, like using PDF copies as opposed to paper packets, to avoid the inconveniences that come with attempting to print.
We’ve all been through it. It’s the night before a big paper is due, and you’re finally done. The countless hours of reading and outlining, the sound of rapid-fire typing in Falvey Library or your dorm room once you enter that elusive essay flow state, the triumph of hitting the 2000-word mark and wrapping up the last paragraph. But wait, aren’t you forgetting something? You still need to print out a paper copy for your 8:30 a.m. class tomorrow.
The challenges Villanovans face when it comes to the lack of easily accessible printers are numerous. From having to walk long distances to reach the nearest V-Print site to technical issues that further limit the number of viable options, these difficulties have cemented the Villanova printing system’s bad rap across campus. With Fall Semester in full swing, professors and students
Most apparent is the low number of printers and their respective distances to key locations on campus, such as dorms and academic buildings. According to the Villanova University UNIT site, there are 12 VPrint sites with a total of 15 printers across Main, South and West Campus, as well as the Commons. That’s equivalent to 446 undergraduate students per printer—before taking into account the relative popularity of each site and the long lines they can quickly generate at points of increased use here at Villanova.
On the day of the Career Fair, for instance, in the hour leading up to the start of the event, dozens of students formed a line that wrapped around the first floor of Falvey, forced to wait up to an hour to get to the front and print their resumes. During periods of higher
activity, like the days leading up to exam seasons or networking events, this issue is likely to persist unless action is taken by administrators and UNIT staff to alleviate the overburden on the most popular sites.
“Just finding the printers in general is hard,” freshman Siena Hall said. “I have no idea where many of them are besides Falvey, and sometimes some are broken, which is annoying.”
It’s not uncommon to run into technical problems while using the campus VPrint system, which requires students to either send a PDF to the service’s email address or upload documents directly through a sometimes-lengthy process. The printers themselves can also cause their fair share of issues, ranging from the minor paper jam to the unofficial “out of service” status that lasts for hours to days at some key locations.
It’s safe to say that some would still challenge complaints about the long lines or stress over getting documents printed in time.
After all, if we learned not to procrastinate, we wouldn’t cause a pileup of students in the library an hour before the next big event on campus. If we got our assignments done with time to spare, nobody would have to worry about what to do when the printer in Spit stops working at 9 p.m. on a Sunday. But, realistically, this fundamental change in the time-management habits of college students isn’t happening anytime soon. So until then, we need solutions. Judging by student consensus, this could simply mean the allocation of University funds towards a few new sites (or printers per location), or a shift from the VPrint system to one that streamlines the process for users, decreasing wait times.
No matter what potential improvements exist, one thing is clear: Villanovans have enough on our plates, so having easy access to printers across campus will be one step towards reducing stress that can come with a challenging academic environment.
Starbucks beverages are now featured on Villanova’s campus at select Holy Grounds. Massimo DiLeo / Villanovan Photography
Zoe Schack Staff Writer
Sof Says: Better Questions Than “Who Are You Voting For”
Sof Quaglia Satire Columnist
The following content is purely satirical and entirely fictional. Don’t believe everything you read!
With the election coming up, not only is it time for students to exercise their civic duty of voting for the nominee they think is the best fit for office, but it is also time for students to exercise the possibly more important civic duty of judging everyone who votes for the people they did not vote for.
I don’t know about anyone else, but I’ve become really good at judging people based on their political beliefs. And, honestly, I kind of judge you if you aren’t judging people this election season.
If we’re gonna live in a divisive country, we might as well be super divisive about it. Judge people because they’re probably judging you, anyway. It’s the only way you’ll survive this election season.
Now, it’s not really a great practice to walk around and ask people who they are planning on voting for, so here are five questions to ask instead of “Who are you voting for?” this election season.
1. Do you have a red hat I can borrow?
This one might be a little bit on the nose, but I think it’s a really great place to start.
2. Who is your favorite couple on Dancing with the Stars?
This question is almost like cheating because it is basically
asking who you are voting for because you do vote for the couples on Dancing with the Stars. Now, technically who you are voting for on DWTS doesn’t directly compare with who you are voting for in the election, but it does show your character.
If a person’s favorite couple is Emma and Reginald VelJohnson, they are super nice because they like old people. However, if their favorite couple is Britt and Eric Roberts, they like old people, but they like the wrong kind of old people, the ones who are in weird movies and are mean to Julia Roberts. There is a lot that can be said about someone who is voting in this presidential election and likes the wrong kind of old person. If a person’s favorite couple is either Rylee and the Pommel Horse Guy or Alan and Ilona
Maher, they probably watched the Olympics, which makes them a true patriot. They are voting for someone who is also a true patriot. I don’t know which presidential candidate they consider to be more patriotic, but I certainly know which one does not have patriotic values.
3. Did you see Taylor Swift at the Chiefs game?
This is an easy one, but it varies with gender.
If a woman responds with, “Yes, and she looked so good,” chances are she is voting for the same person Taylor Swift is voting for. If a woman responds, “I don’t understand why she has to make such a big deal out of everything she does,” she probably hates other women, so you can imagine she will not be voting for one.
If a man responds, “I watched it with my daughter,”
then he clearly cares about the future for girls in this country, so you know who he’s voting for. If he responds, “Yeah, she’s ruining football for everyone,” then I’m pretty sure you know what that means.
4. Have you ever gone to a Morgan Wallen concert?
This might be the only question you have to ask to know who someone is voting for. They can give you three very important answers that will tell you all you need to know.
If a person says that country music really isn’t their thing, you can probably deduce who they would vote for. It doesn’t tell you much, but it tells you something.
If a person says something along the lines of “I saw him years ago, but I don’t support him anymore,” then you can understand where their political views line up today. This might also mean that who they are voting for now is not the same person they voted for last time.
However, if they say, “Oh, yeah, I went to his last tour. Love that guy,” then they actively support a racist felon. There you go.
5. How’s it going?
You can also substitute “How you are?” or “What’s up?” for this one. The election is kind of all-consuming for some people, so they might just bring it up on their own. They might not say exactly who they are voting for, but if they immediately bring up the election as soon as you start talking to them, it’ll probably slip out.
Chances are if they’re super into it, they’ll just tell you. It’s kind of that easy.
Meal Plans Are Confusing, But Worth It
Kaitlin Lawrenson Staff Writer
“Would you like to use an MPE or points?”
The amount of times I have been asked this question in the mere month I have been a student at Villanova is astronomical. However, I find myself guessing which answer to respond with because I have no idea what this means. There is so much confusion when it comes to Villanova’s meal plan, and it often leaves room for lots of mistakes. Whether that is accidentally using a method we didn’t want to use or being unsure of what our meal plan even covers, it can be overwhelming. However, our meal plan is constructed with a bigger purpose than just the eating habits of an individual student.
As a freshman, coming into college for the first time, one of the most helpful parts of Orientation was the explanation of the meal plan. My Orientation Counselor sat all of us down and showed us what MPEs were, how we used points, what NovaBucks are and how many meals we had per week depending on our plan. Despite how helpful Villanova is with showing students how all of this works, do we really need all of these options on our plans?
Personally, I think that we do. I hear so many complaints regarding how confusing our meal plan is and how students don’t need all of
these methods of payment or help. Yet, there are many students in our community who come from various financial backgrounds and this meal plan system helps to ensure no one feels left out. Students who don’t have the means to put disposable cash on their NovaBucks account are provided with points per semester that they can use so they also can go grab some candy or a treat from Donahue Hall, colloquially known as Spit. Meanwhile, students who are worried about being able to pay for their coffee date with a friend can just exchange one of their extra meals for the week so they don’t have to think twice about it.
The meal plan system can be a lot to understand because there are so many nuances, as our Villanova community is very nuanced. Villanova aims to create an inclusive community where no student needs to feel out of place and this meal plan system is another example of Villanova’s position on the importance of community.
“The meal plan system here wasn’t constructed with the intention of making anyone’s lives harder or more confusing but rather accommodating each student’s financial and dining situation,” freshman Megan Lawn said. “For myself, I am a gluten-free student here on campus, so having a wide variety of options with a flexible meal plan not only gives me lots of dining options, but it makes me feel included with my friends even when I cannot eat the same food as
them.”
As a fellow gluten-intolerant student on campus, I understand the struggle that students with various dietary needs have on campus, as well. I have been struggling with my dietary health for more than a year and I was nervous because I didn’t want to have a limited amount of options or feel left out. With this wide-range meal plan, I am able to eat at all of the same places as my friends, including Holy Grounds and Café Nova, and not have to worry about bringing food from somewhere else.
I understand, especially as a freshman, how confusing the meal plan situation can be. However, in my opinion, the Orientation Counselors do an incredible job at explaining the system to us. I felt well-prepared going into the dining halls after Orientation
since the system had been explained and the employees have been so helpful. I have been in multiple scenarios where a friend would ask an employee in the Spit convenience store how a certain aspect of NovaBucks or points worked and they were more than happy to help us understand.
I think that these benefits are ones that you cannot find at every university and add value to Villanova as a whole. I feel lucky to be at a university that supports the financial and dietary needs of each student through the meal plan options. It can get confusing with all of the nuances to the plan to include all students and their situations, but everyone is very helpful. The meal plan system at Villanova is one that benefits all students and is the best system to support all Villanovans.
Asking about Morgan Wallen is a fullproof way to gauge someone’s political preferences. Courtesy of Shutterstock
Colloquially named, “Pit,” Dougherty Hall is the primary dining facility on Main Campus. Graydon Paul/Villanovan Photography
From Parents to Family: A Weekend of Togetherness
Luz Chapa Staff Writer
Should parents weekend be rebranded as family weekend? The internal debate has been stirring in me all weekend, and I officially concluded my answer to be YES. Although, I should give credit where it is due. My nine-year-old little brother, José.
“Yeah, it was cool. College is actually fun.”
Esteemed words from him. Now, if you understand anything about children, you know it is extremely hard to impress them, especially a kid whose only values are playing baseball, competing with his friends on Fortnite, watching Youtube, and dissecting his fantasy football team to a T. José will never fully admit it, but I could tell that he enjoyed himself more than he expected to.
Surprisingly, he actually sacrificed College GameDay on the couch to tailgate at Villanova. Expanding parents weekend to other family members provides students with a unique opportunity to introduce their families to their lives here at Nova.
“My whole family came,” said Sophomore student, Gabrielle Mazzini. “It was so nice for my sister and brother to be here, especially when they get to meet all my friends that I talk about.”
She raised a great point. Most of our family members have
Julianna Burke Staff Writer
never met all of our friends and their families. So, the chance to put faces to names is exceedingly important. As college students, it is always hard being away from home, whether you are from New Jersey or California. But, the opportunity to show our families the Villanova life is strikingly heartwarming. We want our families to believe that we love it at Villanova and for them to understand the strong community that we are a part of.
“At home.”
Those were the words that
sophomore, Ella Girzadas, used to describe her weekend. Given that Villanova is her new home, it meant the world to her that she was able to intersect her Chicago family with her Villanova one. Her older brother, Peter, attended as well. Ella felt nervous at first because her brother could be picky given his college career at Wisconsin. Obviously, they take football tailgates a little more seriously. It was Peter’s first time coming to Villanova, so she wanted to make sure it was a good experience. But, her expectations were greatly
exceeded.
“It was so fun to have my whole family here and spend time all together because now that Peter moved to New Hampshire for work, we are not able to all see each other as much,” she said.
Ella’s experience is similar to many. Introducing your families to your new life is always a little nerve wracking, but ultimately, the experience pays off.
In the end, the thing that all of our families share is their love for us. When they are able to see how much we succeed here, they feel a sense of joy and pride.
My mom, Luz Elena Chapa, shared, “I have comfort in knowing Luz has found her college home where she is happy and thriving surrounded by many who have embraced her. I know she has a sense of belonging at Villanova because she behaves as her true, authentic self without hesitation. That to me speaks volumes.”
I am sure if you ask your parents, they would share a similar sentiment. College offers the freedom to establish a sense of self and figure out what you want to do with your life. I was proud to show off the new life that I am creating for myself through Villanova. So, the weekend rebranding is significant because as many family members as possible should be initiated to the Villanova life. The Villanova community is already one big family. What are a few more?
20 Lessons I’ve Learned in 20 Years
compelling traits out there.
As I turn 20 years old this week, I find myself in a state of both nostalgia for what has come and gone, as well as eagerness for what lies ahead. While operating within this thought stream, I reflected on 20 lessons I have learned in 20 years of life (extremely limited experience is still experience, right?)
1. Occam’s Razor is a wonderful guideline for most experiences we undergo in our lifetimes. Occam’s Razor is the notion that the best theory to explain a given situation is the simplest one. This can be applicable to a host of queries pertaining to multiple fields such as one’s academic, romantic and social life. When you find yourself in a state of chronic overthinking, find what you deem to be the most glaringly obvious or simple explanation and choose to only think about the actions within your control, and within the parameters of what is the best interest for the simplest explanation.
2. Mascara only needs to be put on your top lashes.
3. Most of your day-to-day grievances can be cured through what is naturally available - sunlight, exercise, healthy relationships and social interactions, and for the sake of sanity - a good night’s rest.
4. Weightlifting will not make you bulky.
5. Authenticity is a magnetic trait. Speak your words in accordance with your true sentiments. To know who you are and to actively stick with it is perhaps one of the most rare and
6. Peanut butter is unfortunately not a great source of protein, but it is one of the best snacks out there. Enjoy accordingly.
7. People can only meet you as deeply as they meet themselves. Most problems that you experience in social relationships stem from a common theme of you expecting you from other people. Begin to view other’s actions, words and insights as a mirror of their self-identity and watch things become much clearer.
8. Keeping a journal is one of the best ways to record memories, become a better writer and have a clearer grasp on your emotions.
9. If you weren’t ready for something, you would not have the opportunity. Embrace this notion, and discard your innate desire to run from what seeks to challenge and better you.
10. Ordering an extra shot of espresso in any given beverage is bound to make it taste better and heighten your productivity tenfold.
11. Spend time alone and invest in your solitude. You are the only person that you have to spend the rest of your life with.
12. Love what loves you back, whether it is majoring in a field you have a natural “knack” for, pursuing relationships with people who actively pursue you or pouring your energy into what benefits the common good. It is vital that reciprocity is widely present.
13. Choosing not to consume alcohol does not make you better than everybody else, but it does make you more aware than everybody else.
14. Call your loved ones. In
an age centered on instant messaging, pick up the phone and grow your relationships despite the distance.
15. Asking others what their major is doesn’t always have to be the conversation starter.
16. Always write a thank-you note.
17. There is fiction in your truth and truth in your fiction. The way you see people isn’t always as they are. Keep this in mind when dealing with others.
18. Assume all things are working in your ultimate favor. What you speak, believe and perceive is ultimately what you become.
19. Have something in your life that you hold in higher regard than yourself, whether it is religion, your coursework or even another person. Ensure you’re never taking yourself seriously enough that there is no room for anything else.
20. Time passes more quickly with each day lived, as the weight of its perceived experience loses relevance as your cumulative “days-lived” snowballs. As a child, a month felt like a year, simply because you had experienced a limited amount of months at that point in your lifetime. As an adult, a month feels like a week, simply because you have experienced an ample amount of months in your lifetime. Through understanding this information, I urge you not to wish away your days on a countdownto Friday, to Christmas, to getting a package in the mail. Although it is wonderful to look forward to the excitement offered by the future, it is important to not live your life constantly waiting for the next shoe to drop. Instead, make an effort to be where your shoes are now.
The main event of the weekend was the tailgate housed on Mendel Field. Graydon Paul/Villanovan Photography
Remember to savor each day. College only lasts so long! Courtesy of Shutterstock
CULTURE
Do You Have a Complaint to File?: The Ministry of Loneliness
Cali Carss Staff Writer
This past week and a half, the theatre program has been putting on an amazing festival entitled SOLO NOVA. Featuring four different solo pieces in the Mullen Center, the festival has highlighted a number of stories that all demonstrate just how much can be achieved in a solo show. There was also an outlier performance included in this festival, a table that has been moving around campus over the course of SOLO NOVA’s time with its identifying sign: the Ministry of Loneliness
The Ministry of Loneliness, created and performed by Irina Varina, is the only work in the festival to be performed by a non-Villanova alum. Varina has already brought her ministry to Bryn Mawr College, which is how Villanova professor Michael Hollinger found out about her work and decided to include the ministry in SOLO NOVA.
“I wanted to make sure that our students in particular knew that solo performance was more than entering a theatre, sitting in a seat, reading a program and clapping,” Hollinger said. “That solo performance includes performance art, performance events or happenings that don’t necessarily take place in traditional venues.”
The Ministry of Loneliness is
surely a fantastic representation of that. The Ministry has been to Philadelphia and even to New York City. Varina sits at her table each evening of this performance window, writing quietly unless someone comes to sit and file a complaint.
There is no speaking with the minister, only written communication. A folder is passed back and forth so a visitor never has to speak of their concerns out loud. It is just private enough to create a kind of bubble around the two people at the table while still being a piece of public art.
After the ministry has closed for the day, Varina takes small sections of the complaints she’s heard and chalks them onto the sidewalks. These messages were covering our brick walkways until the rain this weekend washed them away. These messages are an essential part of the ministry’s existence.
“What I liked so much about the ministry was that it was more likely to interact with undergraduate students,” Hollinger said. “And because connecting with others or feeling unconnected with others can be such a big part of being away from home.”
College is often referred to by adults as some of the best years of a person’s life, and while Villanova can give students their best friends, it can also be lonely and isolating to move away from the familiarity of home.
IfYoureReadingThis:
Katie Formato Staff Writer
IfYoureReadingThis is a national mental health nonprofit, through which students and staff from universities across the country can share a letter about their story. Villanova, along with many other universities, sponsors a chapter of the national organization. The letters shared by Villanova students and staff get posted onto the national website, as well as the Villanova chapter’s Instagram account.
“We strive to uphold the mission of IfYoureReadingThis in creating a support community where everyone feels comfortable sharing their story, no matter where in their journey they are,” Sophia Crossan, senior and President of IfYoureReadingThis Villanova, said.
The Villanova chapter was started in Spring of 2021 by Julia Stanisci, a recent Villanova graduate. Crossan and current vice president, senior Annie Arner, had the organization handed over to them when Stanisci graduated.
“When I found IfYoureReadingThis, I loved the missions and goals,” Crossan said. “I loved that people had the opportunity to empower themselves through sharing their stories, but also that they would receive support from their peers. During my time in the organization, I have worked to maintain the supportive community we have built where students feel safe and welcomed to share their story, just as I have felt.”
Students who are interested in sharing their story can submit a letter
This is a common feeling among students. Hollinger added that the ministry was important to have on campus because of the inherent “gentleness and tenderness” that recognizing and making space for loneliness facilitates.
“It is built on silence and writing so it acts as a counterweight [to the rest of the festival], like something totally different,” Hollinger said.
Different is definitely the word for this performance. While some students may not have understood the purpose immediately, many were brave enough to sit down with Varina and file a complaint. All complaints are anonymous, and they benefit other students
who are feeling lonely and can look at the chalked messages to know they are not totally alone.
Hollinger ended his remarks about SOLO NOVA and the inclusion of the Ministry of Loneliness with a similar sentiment, hoping the ministry made an impact on those feeling alone.
“I hope that even witnessing from a safe distance, the ministry would give permission to students who may be grappling with hard feelings to share those with someone and to feel as though it’s not a sign of weakness or insufficiency,” he said. “But you can honor yourself and the things that you feel and know you’re not alone.”
You Are Not Alone
on the national IfYoureReadingThis website through the submission section located on the home page. People can also write anonymous letters, meaning their name and photo will not be attached. After submitting a letter, one is brought to a page where they can book a photo with senior Ally Szabo, the photographer for IfYoureReadingThis.
“My position as the photographer is unique in the way that I am the only member of the IYRT exec board that meets every single letter author,” Szabo said. “It is one of my absolute favorite parts of what I do. Being in front of a camera can be nerve wracking, which is why I take as many photos as the author would like and let them choose which ones they feel the best in. It is extremely brave to share a personal and vulnerable story, so my goal with authors’ photos is to
make sure they feel confident in what they are sharing.”
Szabo likes to meet every person at the Corr Hall arch on the Campus Green for their photos since it is central to campus.
“I love starting out in the green and fountain area, I think there is so much natural beauty in that area,” Szabo said. “I like to chat with the authors to ease any nerves and let them know that this time is for them. After we take photos, I let them scroll through all of them to choose their favorites, I edit those, and then send them back for them to choose which one to post.”
Arner shared that the club is important to help spread mental health awareness on campus.
“It provides a space for people to talk about mental health in an open and honest way with or without
anonymity which really illustrates the amount of people around us that struggle with it on a daily basis,” Arner said. “It helps emphasize the point that mental health is not a unique experience and many people struggle with it. The really special thing about our club is when people attach a face and a name to their story, it opens up the possibility to build community and support far more extensive than someone might have thought possible.”
Students can submit a letter, but can also refer a friend to write a letter. There is a letter nomination form located in the Instagram bio of the Villanova chapter of IfYourReadingThis.
“People can submit the name and contact information of someone they feel has a powerful story to share,” Crossan said. “This is completely anonymous and the recipient will not know who nominated them. Even if they choose not to write a letter, being nominated still makes them feel like they are important and their strength is being seen by others.”
The club hopes to become more involved on campus, and plans to hold an open mic night to showcase letters on Wednesday, Oct. 2 at 6:30 p.m. in the Connelly Cinema.
“We are inviting people to read their letters to others, hoping to elicit feelings of community,” Arner said.
If students are interested in writing a letter, nominating a friend to write a letter or getting involved in IfYoureReadingThis, they can visit the IfYoureReadingThis website and follow the Villanova chapter on Instagram, @ifyourereadingthisnova.
Chalk messages with complaints filed through the Ministry of Loneliness were written around campus. Courtesy of Cali Carss
The executive board of IfYoureReadingThis Villanova. Courtesy of @ifyourereadingthisnova on Instagram
The Heart of the Matter: A Mother’s Touch
Natalie Hyde Staff Writer
The best compliment I have ever received is that I am just like my mother. Even during my moody teenage years after bickers over curfews, I would still smile at the comparison. In honor of Family Weekend, I figured there would be no better time to learn about Villanova moms. I asked students to share insight on one thing their mother has taught them. Here on campus, there is no one to nag you about completing assignments or doing the right thing, so students must rely on all they have learned to guide them. In these formative years of our lives, when we are tasked with making important decisions for the future, we could all benefit from a mother’s wisdom.
The backbone of families, many students noted the selflessness and kindness their mothers exert.
“It is such a privilege to know I never have to question that my mom will be there for me,” one student said. “She does so much - never asking for credit, or even expecting it.”
This altruism has instilled the value of putting others first. Mantras from “kindness is free” and “you get what you give” still ring in a knowing tone inside students’ minds before
making decisions.
“Nothing else matters except being as good of a person as you can be,” one student said. “Life is crazy, the only thing I can do is manage how I act and that should be the best version of me.”
Hard times will pass, but it is framing kindness as a strength that allows her to face the hard times instead of it washing over her.
Another student remembered her crippling introversion as a young girl. Fearful of even telling the waiter that her order was incorrect, she would rather poke at the spicy shrimp taco (she hates both spice and seafood), instead of politely asking for the correct cheese quesadilla. Her mother, however, would not let her sit back quietly and smile as the dish was placed in front of her. This wasn’t the last time her mom taught her to advocate for herself.
“I realize now I don’t have to accept a bad thing and blindly do what I’m told,” the student said. “I can stand up for myself, in a respectful way. If you don’t stand up for yourself, people will just walk all over you.”
“It was my mother who told me that nothing else matters unless you are having fun,” another student shared. “I had never had this much work before and didn’t know anyone… I felt so alone.”
Her nights spent in the library first semester of college may have incrementally increased her grades but left her sitting in the reading room watching her peers’ Instagram posts of dinners and parties she was not attending. It was then that she imagined her mother watching her. She could picture her furrowed brows and tender touch.
“Life is about balance - and I had none,” she said.
After that night, she sat next to a new girl in class, stayed a little longer at Spit dinner and reached out to new people.
One student’s mother always wanted to be a ballerina. As a young girl, she twirled in her three-person bedroom, her family unable to pay for
lessons. It was her 45th birthday when she laced up her ballet slippers for the first time.
“Everybody says ‘It’s never too late,’” this student said. “But my mom proved it.”
The entire extended family of this student went to her recital to witness the whispered promise that dreams truly never expire.
Like most mothers, mine worked very hard: the never-finished labor of maternity. Her children are her creations, sculpted from her moral principles. Everything I am is a manifestation of her teachings. Every attribute is a testimony to how she raised me. When I am complimented for my patience, it is because she instilled that in me. All is a credit to her.
Embracing Deaf Culture with True Biz Discussion Panel
Kalyani Halsband Staff Writer
Continued from p. 1
Biz. They described how their personal experiences resonated with those of the protagonist, Charlie. McDevitt explained how he too grew up as the only Deaf child in an ASL class and consequently felt like he was put on display as the “teacher’s pet.” This resulted in a feeling of isolation from his peers in his youth, even feeling embarrassed of his parents signing to him.
Vadakin similarly described her upbringing as the only Deaf person in her family, ultimately leading to a feeling she named “dinner table syndrome:” feeling alienated from conversations at the dinner table because of the difficulty of trying to read multiple lips at the same time, making it so she was unable to follow the conversation. Vadakin’s family did not know ASL, so the communication barrier was particularly prominent.
Gordine, on the other hand, had a much more positive childhood, as he attended a school for the Deaf, and his mother learned signed language. Everyone around Gordine signed, allowing him access to communication and peers like himself.
While Gordine’s adolescence was different than the character Charlie’s, he described the profiting off of Deaf people described in the novel as anger-inducing and a “unifying experience among Deaf people.”
Unlike Gordine, Foran primarily connected with the novel’s author, Nović, as both Foran and Nović were born with the ability to hear before their hearing eventually declined into deafness later in life. Foran described how her family neither knew nor had a desire to learn ASL,
but instead wanted her to get two cochlear implants, a point of contention in the Deaf community that was also discussed at length by the panelists.
A cochlear implant, or CI, is a device used for severe hearing loss that essentially replaces the function of the cochlea, a structure located in the inner ear, by electrically stimulating auditory nerve fibers. It allows an individual to learn the sounds of speech and, potentially, be bilingual in sign and speech.
However, despite these benefits, cochlear implants are largely regarded as challenging and even problematic, particularly for children prior to the age of two, as parents have to decide whether their child should undergo this invasive and permanent surgical procedure. Moreover, some parents may not want their child to get a cochlear implant, particularly if the parents are also Deaf or have a connection with the Deaf community, which has its own language and culture.
McDevitt explained how he
recently considered getting a cochlear implant because the effectiveness of his hearing aid was dwindling. However, there is a “critical time window” for this procedure, he signed, as at his age of 51 his brain is no longer malleable. Children, on the other hand, have a greater advantage to seize the opportunity of this technology. This is because language outcomes are better when one receives a cochlear implant early in life due to the greater amount of time exposed to sound and language.
McDevitt compared cochlear implants to LASIK eye surgery to illustrate that, unlike common perception, cochlear implants are not a cure for deafness. While LASIK can give an individual perfect vision, cochlear implants can only give a person approximately 20 to 30% more hearing, rather than perfect hearing. In the past, cochlear implants were marketed as something they were not, signed McDevitt, but they are attempting to be more holistic in their approach.
The panel concluded with
a discussion of the role of advocacy in each of the panelists’ identities as Deaf individuals, as well as what they want people to know about the Deaf community and how they can support those who are Deaf.
In his youth and adolescence, Gordine’s identity was centered around the fact that he was Deaf. He later realized he did not know his identity and has since expanded his identity to include being a person of color, too. Gordine aims to represent and advocate for Deaf people of color, as well as hearing parents because many are unsure of how best to support their child.
For Foran, advocacy is being there for someone late in Deafness like herself. She felt that she was “not Deaf enough” and aims to support those with similar experiences. McDevitt emphasized that those involved in business and law have the best opportunity to become advocates. People should look at their workplace’s policies and ask difficult questions, ensuring that Deaf individuals are not being discriminated against.
McDevitt also brought awareness to the need for interpreters, which are mainly white and female. Students should continue to learn about the Deaf community and its culture, and advocate for those a part of it. This can be as simple as speaking up against discrimination or learning basic ASL, or as far-reaching as studying to become an interpreter. Whether one is Deaf, hearing or somewhere in between, it is essential that Villanovans welcome and embrace Deaf culture on campus. This event was sponsored by Falvey Library and the Deaf and Disability Studies Program. Falvey Library plans to hold more panel discussions and events throughout the semester.
Falvey Library held a panel discussion on Sara Nović’s True Biz on Monday, Sept. 23. Courtesy of Margaret Miller
This week, The Heart of the Matter celebrates mothers and their impact on our lives. Courtesy of Natalie Hyde
Kristiana Kovaci Staff Writer
On Sept. 25, the Mullen Center of Performing Arts held a complex, emotionally and morally challenging performance titled, “Theater of War: Hector, Andromache, and the Death of Astyanax.” It was a dramatic reading of scenes from Homer’s Iliad Book VI and The Trojan Women by Euripides. The story’s primary focus is the ultimate victims of war on either side, children, here done through the focus on Hector’s son, Astyanax. The dramatic reading highlights humans’ unfortunate habit of retaliating violently toward our enemies, engaging in wars and villainizing the other side. At the end of each scene, the students who performed facilitated a discussion on what they just had to interpret and the audience contributed, sharing ideas, realizations and personal stories about how war had impacted them.
University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A., Ph.D. opened the show and welcomed all in attendance. Then, Villanova professor Heidi Rose, the lead organizer of the show, introduced the power and importance of Greek tragedies. She began by expressing how Greek tragedies have the power to transcend time, and that they can always be applied to contemporary audiences. These stories can be reused, as the tradition of war and inciting violence upon one another is still extremely prevalent, as evidenced by the war of Ukraine-Russia and the Palestine-Israel conflict. This piece first debuted at Columbia University, and Villanova felt it was necessary to bring the performance onto campus. Students should recognize the complexities of war and not turn away in the face of discomfort, but rather feel it together.
Artistic director Bryan Doerries, who translated and facilitated the dramatic readings, took the stage, urging and pleading for audience members to welcome the gray areas that they may have
Theater of War Reviewed
never considered before in war. He shared that the purpose of this dramatic reading and others like it is to promote free speech and open dialogue, that even if people cannot agree with each other they can accept that they should hear from all perspectives. He ended with the fact that even the actors on stage only agreed to act but not to agree with each other’s beliefs.
Doerries then introduced the ensemble of professional actors. The lineup consisted of Marjolaine Goldsmith, who is a part of Theater of War Productions; Josh Hamilton; Chad Coleman, from All American and The Walking Dead; and Lois Smith, who worked alongside James Dean in East of Eden. The rest of the performers were students: Rylan Fegan, Jamison Dean, Nyred Jackson, Zoe Magee, Ethan Khan, Rachel Taylor and Micki Loud. The set consisted of nothing except the table where the actors sat, in front of a completely black background. They were wearing regular clothing, hinting that there was no dress code for the characters, or possibly it was done to highlight how the themes from Ancient Greece haunt us to this day.
The performance be -
gan with the Iliad, and the great warrior Hector who had returned home to his wife and son, to say goodbye one last time, knowing that once he leaves again to fight for Troy, he will not survive. His wife Andromache, begs him not to leave her a widow and their son orphaned. Andromache feels betrayed and abandoned by Hector, but her pleas and cries are fruitless, Hector leaves and sacrifices himself to defend the Trojans and to inspire his son to be better than him.
After the reading of Book VI, the professional actors leave the stage and the performers relate what they just read to their identities and share their thoughts. Khan, bravely, shared that his mother was a survivor of the Holocaust and his paternal grandfather was taken away from India as a servant, and so he was used to the innocent civilians that suffered at the hands of war. Taylor resonated most with the line, “This has all happened before,” which emphasized that trauma and pain is passed down and we have not reached a point where we all identify that (generational) trauma nor know how to heal it. The audience then had the opportunity to share
Alex Pultz Staff Writer
their thoughts.
“Even though war permeates through lives, this has been something that humankind has been battling,” freshman Kirandeep Kaur said.
An extremely emotional point in the discussion was when a Russian audience member expressed her pain from the Russia-Ukraine war. She shared that this was a war that her own country had started, and that during the dramatic reading she could not help but cry. All the emotions and moments that the performers depicted were ones that she had already experienced. She tearfully thanked the production for allowing her to relive them and reflect on the subject of war.
The performance then continued with the dramatic reading of The Trojan Women, which starts with Hector’s son, Astyanax and Andromache, who are left alone, together. Andromache is then taken away as a slave and concubine of Neoptolemus, Achilles’s son. The other women in Troy are miserable and anxious, sympathizing with Andromache and fearing for their lives. Astyanax is then executed by the Greeks, marking another child victim of war. Astyanax suffered the loss of his father, pain of his mother and of the destroyed Troy, and then was killed due to pure hatred.
These performances created discomfort throughout the crowd. Despite the nervousness amongst the audience, there was compassion and open-mindedness exhibited by Villanova faculty and peers. The uniting thought from everyone was that war crosses every boundary, even if we have instituted rules for them, every single war and violent fight will leave innocent people dead. However, we all can get so swept up into choosing sides that we forget that these are human lives that are taken away, and that a wife, a mother and more will weep for each life lost. Why continue to enforce rules in war and create villains, rather than disrupt the cycle of violence and create avenues for negotiations where children will not be
Shelf Care: They Wish They Were Us
The turn of the season not only brings changing leaves, it also welcomes the change of book genres. I tend to put down my beachy romances for fall and opt for a murder mystery. These mysteries remind me of Halloween, which I am fully starting to embrace. Jessica Goodman’s They Wish They Were Us is the perfect mystery to start up the fall season. I first discovered Goodman through her mystery, They’ll Never Catch Us , which is equally as good. I found They Wish They Were Us on the back cover of that book, which I’m glad I discovered. I tend to enjoy reading mysteries in one day.
I always want to know the ending. The perfect day for a mystery is a rainy one, so on the next rainy day, sit down and tackle this quick thriller.
They Wish They Were Us takes place at an elite private school on the North Shore of Long Island, New York. The main character, Jill, is part of an exclusive society called “The Players” that dominates the school, both socially and academically. Jill is finally a senior, making her a leader of the group, and she wants to put past Player traditions behind her. Something that she’s also trying to move on from is the death of her best friend Shaila that tragically happened in their freshman year. Just when she feels she’s gotten over this traumatic moment of
her past, Jill is receiving suspicious texts, in which the suspected killer, Graham, is proclaiming innocence. By looking into the past, Jill not only realizes that Graham might be innocent, but she also uncovers things from Shaila’s past that make her reconsider if being a Player is really worth it. This book had me hooked. I was anxious awaiting to see how the mystery unfolded. That being said, this is a typical YA thriller. By the end of the book, I was pretty sure of what happened, but nonetheless I was still entertained. All YA mystery books have a similar plotline: a whodunit mystery in their town solved by one of their own residents. This didn’t make the book any less enjoyable, just predictable. Something that dif -
fered this book from the rest of these stereotypical mysteries was that murder wasn’t the only plotline. This book served intense high school drama. It was giving a Gossip Girls or Pretty Little Liars vibe. This drama created a somewhat relatable aspect of the book to cater to its adolescent readers. The drama at this school might have been very extreme, as Jill’s Player’s group was scandalous and toxic. This novel was fast-paced and a great thriller if you want to be introduced to the mystery genre this fall.
Spot on Campus to Read This Book: the Reading Room. Embrace the private school vibe and read this book on campus. The calm ambiance of the Reading Room is the perfect place.
Actors are pictured in front of an ominous all black back drop. Kristiana Kovaci/Villanovan Photography
Applying to Internships: Unlocking Opportunities
Lilly Semprevivo Staff Writer
For many students at Villanova University seeking hands-on experience, the chance to cultivate professional skills and build their networks, securing a summer internship is an excellent opportunity. And as the academic year builds up, many are now focusing on applications and exploring these exciting possibilities.
Internships provide crucial insights into future career paths and allow students to apply their knowledge in practical, real-world environments. While it is important to research companies and organizations that align with one’s interests when looking, remain open to exploring different industries and roles. It is possible to discover an unexpected, newfound passion.
With Villanova’s extensive line-up of online and on-campus resources to utilize, students do not have to wait until summer approaches to begin their search.
These tools are available and designed to help students explore, gain experience and grow while thinking critically about future paths. Campus involvement fosters growth and connection with like-minded peers. Students can join club organizations, attend career fairs, establish relationships with mentors and participate in various networking events orga -
Charlotte Kyles Staff Writer
Heading into midterm week can cause high amounts of stress and pressure for all students, no matter the course load. This week’s podcast recommendation is meant to bring a little laughter and relatability to a time of high stress and anxiety. Research shows that taking 10-minute breaks every hour during a long day of studying can greatly impact the quality of one’s comprehension. This is the perfect time to pop in some headphones and turn on The Toast
The Toast is a pop culture podcast that’s run by two sisters, Jackie Oshry and Claudia Oshry, who both grew their social media presence over the past few years. Each week, the sisters release a few episodes discussing the headlines found in popular tabloids like PEOPLE magazine and Page Six . The sisters share a variety of content across Instagram, TikTok and their podcast. The two sisters share similar interests within fashion, fitness and pop culture. Their Instagram and TikTok content consists of makeup tutorials and brand deals, while their podcast digs into pop culture and trending topics. The two share their opinion on Taylor Swift’s setlist, catchphrases and even Mickey Mouse.
One of their other successes comes from their own podcast network, Toast News Network , which is home to about eight other
nized by the Career Center and Nova Network, which are great ways to connect students with each other and with alumni members.
Additionally, students can take professional development courses to identify their specific strengths and learn essential skills necessary to prepare for a success -
ful and meaningful internship.
Beginning with the Career Center, located on West Campus, students at Villanova have access to services, allowing them to pursue fulfilling careers. They can learn about researching organizations, gaining a deep understanding of companies’ missions, values and recent initiatives. Students can
Hot Takes for Fall: ListenUP!
separate podcasts that are mostly run by women. Toast News Network focuses on promoting women’s voices in the podcasting world. This goal is something that the Oshry sisters feel very passionate about and they cater the majority of their content towards young women.
Their recent episode, “Women in Media,” touches on five major celebrities and their most recent accomplishments and relationships in 2024. This episode highlights themes of success and hard work and how these women got to where they are today.
In addition to covering celebrity drama, they also frequently bring in guests such as popular internet personalities, like Jake Shane and TikTok couple Pookie and Jet. The guest episodes add a new level of excitement, and the sisters take turns asking guests their opinions on celebrity relationship drama and artist announcements. In another recent episode, “Tuesday Fully Loaded with Pookie and Jett,” the four give their opinion on Kacey Musgraves’ fashion line and Ina Garten’s new memoir, ‘Hardest Thing I Ever Did.”
The Toast makes finding something one would like to listen to simple. Within the show note captions, they put a list of topics and the timestamp of where to find that topic within the episode. This makes it easy to quickly find 10 minutes of something that will pique one’s interest and engage one’s mind in topics other than
even participate in mock interviews to practice frequently asked questions, preparing themselves to engage in conversation and pose thoughtful questions. Furthermore, the Peer Career Coaching Program at Villanova offers support, providing personalized guidance for students outside of VSB, Engineering and other schools as they work toward achieving their professional development goals.
For students just easing in and initially looking for an online approach, Career Connections serves as a vital resource, connecting Villanovans with top-quality career advice. Platforms like LinkedIn and Handshake also allow students to discover relevant internship opportunities based on their profiles, interests and recent searches. In fact, on these websites, students can directly apply for positions and explore different companies. With a Villanova-associated Handshake account, students can also register for career fairs and weekly workshops, working to further a professional journey all in one platform. Internships are essential ways to develop in the professional journey. It is important to start early, build a strong resume, utilize these Villanova campus resources and proactively seek support and guidance from the career advisors available. By preparing diligently and taking initiative, students on campus can obtain rewarding opportunities that will significantly impact their futures to come.
schoolwork. Maintaining a healthy mental space is half the battle during midterm week. It’s important to come up with a study plan that maximizes one’s energy and capacity, while also designating
time to relax and take a break. The
is the
to listen to during a study break to keep up with the Hollywood
and give one’s brain time to relax and recharge. Happy listening.
The annual Career Fair is another way to proactively prepare yourself for the future. Brian Luppy/Villanovan Photography
Toast
perfect podcast
drama
Consider taking a listen to The Toast for a light hearted break from studying. Maggie Fitzgerald/Villanovan Photography
VillaVogue: A Glimpse at Philly Fashion Week
Ciara Dursee Staff Writer
There’s a runway right around the corner in our beloved city of Philadelphia? You heard that right. Last week, Sept. 18 through Sept. 22, Philly Fashion Week finished up its five-day event and celebrated another year of delivering an immersive fashion experience to attendees. Full of exciting brands and talented designers, the fashion team curates one of the most memorable events in the Philadelphia area and never fails to disappoint.
PFW welcomed designers from across the globe, not just in Philadelphia, and encouraged this event to be a platform for creators to demonstrate their abilities and unique flair. In addition, the event was open to student designers joining in on the action, promoting the rising potential and young talent in the fashion world.
While showcasing current
trends, innovation and of course a sizable amount of glam, this annual celebration is more than just the clothes. The nature of this event spoke volumes to the dedication to growing the Philadelphia fashion community by offering a stage for designers and stylists that have the professional ability to inspire others with their excellence. At Philly Fashion Week, one saw outfits from streetwear to couture, as the event exhibited a variety of styles and welcomes all to embrace the beauty of unique expression.
One of the main goals of this event is to motivate inclusivity and diversity. PFW embraces diversity in the broad landscape of Philadelphia, representing a combination of international and local talent that prioritizes inclusivity of all styles and cultures. As we all know, this world of fashion is a broad and ever-evolving cycle of new trends, perspectives and innovation. The Philly fashion team dedicates its show to encapsulate the excitement of accepting and stimulating unpredictability.
Student Body President, Dean Millard, walked this past week at Philly Fashion Week. @dean.millard1 on Instagram
SPORTS
Volleyball Starts BE Play, Dominating Georgetown & Seton Hall
Genna Cottingham Staff Writer
Villanova volleyball opened its conference schedule this weekend, claiming wins over Georgetown and Seton Hall.
The Wildcats are now on a six-match winning streak and have only lost one home match this season.
After a strong opening weekend, Villanova has established a 2-0 conference record and 9-4 record for the 2024 season. To start off their Big East season, the Wildcats defeated the Hoyas on Friday, Sept. 27 at Jake Nevin Field House.
On Saturday, Sep. 28, the team traveled to Seton Hall to take on the Pirates.
The Wildcats performed well against the Hoyas, winning the match in straight sets (25-15, 25-21, 25-18). Junior outside hitter Tara Garvey recorded nine kills and three blocks for Villanova against Georgetown.
Senior middle blocker Ozzie Ozonoh had a strong showing with seven kills and three blocks.
“Every conference win is a great win,” Villanova head coach Josh Steinbach said after Friday’s match. “The team has been working really hard in practice, so it’s good to see it all play out.”
Graduate transfer setter Taylor Jakubowski has played a
significant role in the success of the ‘Cats this season. With 36 assists, 24 digs and three aces in the past two matches, Jakubowski has proven to be a valuable addition to the team after four seasons competing in Big East volleyball at Seton Hall.
Jakubowski returned to South Orange, New Jersey the following day to face her former team with the Wildcats.
“I know their tendencies, but they know mine,” Jakubowski said in advance of the Seton Hall match. “It’s an even playing field, we have a lot of new girls, they
have a lot of new people on their team.”
Jakubowski and the Wildcats defeated the Pirates in four sets (25-21, 20-25, 25-21, 27-25).
Sophomore middle blocker Abby Harrell notched 17 kills and 18 points on Saturday. Ozonoh had a season high of 12 points and also logged five digs.
After losing the second set by five points, the Wildcats refocused their energy to reign victorious for the next two sets. Although the final set ended so close by going to 27 instead of 25, the ‘Cats persevered to pull off the win
against the Pirates. “We must continue to do what we did tonight, which I thought was serve and pass well, play hard on defense, and manage our mistakes,” Steinbach said. “If we keep doing that, we’ll be in a good position for the rest of the season.”
The rookie ‘Cats asserted their dominance on the court in their first steps into Big East play.
Freshman outside hitter Cat Young had 10 kills on Friday and earned 11 points against the Hoyas.
Freshman setter Alyssa Nelson was also a dominating force on the weekend, helping her team with a total of 48 assists and 18 digs.
Lastly, freshman middle blocker Campbell McKinnon pulled off 20 kills and logged 25 points.
“We have a really good group of freshmen,” Steinbach said. “They are focused, they work hard, play hard. It makes them an easy group to coach.”
Villanova is one of five teams in the Big East who have a perfect conference record.
Villanova continues its Big East schedule with two away games this weekend, at DePaul and Xavier.
The ‘Cats will face DePaul in Chicago on Friday, Oct. 4, at 8 p.m. Then, the Wildcats will travel to Cincinnati on Sunday, Oct. 6, to take on Xavier at 1 p.m.
Sigfstead Places First, XC Impresses at Nuttycombe
Dylan Johnson Staff Writer
Villanova’s cross country teams had their first major meet of the season, racing in the Nuttycombe Invitational in Madison, Wisconsin on Friday, Sept. 27.
Senior Sadie Sigfstead won the women’s 6K championship race in her season debut. For the men, fifth-year Liam Murphy came one second shy of his 8K best to place third in the men’s 8K championship race.
The Villanova men (312 points) and women (323 points) finished 10th and 13th, respectively, in team rankings.
Sigfstead was the only woman from Villanova to punch a ticket to NCAA national championships last season, finishing 71st (20:28.7). Fresh off a summer of training, Sigfstead came away with what she wanted at Wisconsin. Her first-place time of 19:55.7 was just under nine seconds faster than the rest of the field. She was all alone crossing the finish line.
“I love this course,” Sigfstead said. “My coach knows me best and knows that I’m an endurance race runner. She said that I should be able to trust my racing instincts at this point. When the girls took it [early in the race], I had raced one of them in the 10K. They’re great runners and I like
a hard race, so I just made good decisions as the race went on.”
Senior Emma McGill did not race at Nuttycombe but plans to return for the Princeton meet in two weeks. McGill is a part of Villanova’s top five.
Columbia graduate transfer Nikki Vanasse was the second Wildcat to cross the finish line, running a 20:23.3 to place 11th.
Senior Emily Robinson (21:13.1-73rd), freshman Rosie Shay (21:34.4 - 110th) and Amelia Arrieta (21:45.2 - 131st) rounded out the scoring five.
“I was really impressed with the freshman Rosie Shay,” women’s head coach Gina Procaccio said. “Freshmen usually take most of the season to get in shape and make an impact. I believe she’s just going to keep coming and getting better and better.”
The men raced a strong opener in Wisconsin. Murphy is entering his final year in all three seasons: cross country, indoor and outdoor. Last season Murphy set multiple personal records and school records. He finished first at the Big East championships. Murphy pushed the last 1K, placing third in 23:08.6.
“Murphy and [Marco] Langon are training relatively, really hard in terms of volume and in terms of commitment, and also in terms of the expectations that they have for themselves,” men’s head coach Marcus O’Sullivan said. “The type of training we’re doing is not conducive to full racing yet, but I think they actually did really well on things considered with the style of training we’re doing right now. I think all in all, they’ve matured individ -
ually, and their commitment and their expectations for themselves have grown.”
Villanova has almost a completely new team besides a few returning runners such as Murphy and junior Marco Langon. Langon finished 12th after a late surge in the final 1K of the race. He ran the course in 23:39.0. Murphy and Langon had massive jumps in fitness and performance compared to their respective performances last season at Nuttycombe. Last year, Murphy finished 21st in 23:52.8 and Langon finished 110th in 24:24.9.
Rounding out the scoring five for the men included sophomore Bailey Habler (24:23.6 - 64th), senior Devon Comber (24:54.0 - 114th) and sophomore CJ Sullivan (25:00.1 - 119th).
While the separation between Villanova’s top two and the rest of the scoring five was large, O’Sullivan saw many positives.
“I think [Habler, Comber and Sullivan] close the gap down with the top two guys [(Murphy and Langon)],” O’Sullivan said. “I think that will help put the top five together pretty decently.”
Next up on the men’s and women’s schedules is the Princeton Fall Classic on Friday, Oct. 18 in Princeton, New Jersey. Before that, a select few men will race at the Paul Short Run on Saturday, Oct. 5 in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.
Villanova (9–4, 2–0 Big East) defeated Seton Hall in four sets on Saturday, Sep. 28. Erick Quezada / Villanovan Photography
Senior Sadie Sigfstead won the women’s 6K Championship in her season debut in Wisconsin. Courtesy of Villanova Athletics
Women’s Soccer Defeats Creighton, Falls to No. 21 Xavier
James Haupt Staff Writer
Searching for its first win since Aug. 29, Villanova women’s soccer was set to face off against two Big East rivals in four days.
On Thursday, Sept. 26, the Wildcats took on Creighton and earned a much-needed 2-0 victory. They then matched up against No. 21 Xavier on Sunday, Sept. 29, in which the Wildcats suffered their first Big East loss of the season, 3-0. The decisions give the ‘Cats a 4-5-2 overall record and a 1-1-1 conference record, currently fifth in the Big East.
Thursday’s game against the Bluejays was only the second game this season in which Villanova scored multiple goals. Villanova had nine shots compared to
Creighton’s 15, but the Wildcats made the most of their opportunities.
The first goal came from senior forward Lauren Belcuore off an assist from senior midfielder Susanna Soderman in the 16th minute. The ‘Cats scored again in the 68th minute as sophomore midfielder Gabby Koluch converted from the penalty spot.
Villanova’s defense played well, recording its fifth shutout of the season. Junior goalkeeper Hannah Dickinson continued her stellar season, making eight saves and earning a clean sheet.
“Defending and attacking go hand-in-hand in soccer,” Villanova head coach Samar Azem said. “The way you set up defensively leads to how you attack.”
After its win in Omaha, Villanova then faced its toughest
matchup yet this season, hosting Xavier. The Musketeers were the ‘Cats’ first nationally-ranked opponent of 2024. The Wildcats went down early, allowing a goal within three minutes. They managed to stay competitive for most of the match, keeping it a one-goal game for the rest of the first half and some of the second half. Xavier proved to be too much for the ‘Cats, as the Musketeers put in two more goals in the 71st minute and 79th minute.
“The difference is the tempo,” Azem said about the two games this weekend. “Xavier’s tempo was a lot faster. Xavier’s system was very different from Creighton’s. It’s a unique system, it’s very hard to play against. Creighton’s very good but it’s a very different game.”
Dickinson finished the day with nine saves after the Musketeers produced 24 shots, 12 of which were on frame. Dickinson was named to the Big East weekly honor roll alongside graduate defender Olivia Neal, the anchor of Villanova’s backline.
“I want to continue to be us,” Azem said. “I like where this team is at.”
Conference play continues for the Wildcats on Thursday, Oct. 3, as they face off against DePaul at home at 4 p.m. After DePaul, the team will not be back in action until Sunday Oct. 13, when it faces St. John’s at home.
Field Hockey Goes 1–1 on the Weekend
Ali Benjamin Staff Writer
Villanova field hockey started the weekend with its second conference game of the season, hosting Quinnipiac on Friday evening. The ‘Cats remained at home for Sunday’s matchup against No. 7 Iowa. The ‘Cats split the weekend with a 4-2 victory over Quinnipiac and a 2-0 loss to Iowa.
Friday’s game began with sophomore Maddi Sears in goal for the ‘Cats, and began with several fast offensive breaks on both sides.
Quinnipiac sank its first goal just under three minutes after play started. Graduate forward Meghan Mitchell responded for the ‘Cats, with an assist from sophomore midfielder Jane Bresnahan. After five more attempted shots on goal from the Villanova offense, three of which were blocked and two saved, the first period ended at a 1-1 tie.
“They scored but we responded very quickly with a goal right back which I am happy and proud of our team for responding that way,” Villanova head coach Joanie Milhous said.
The ‘Cats finally pulled ahead early in the second period with a goal from sophomore back Gemma Lysaght off of a penalty corner from senior midfielder/forward Emma Schwarz and assisted by senior midfielder Raina Smolij. This was followed by a blocked shot from both graduate forward Sabine de Ruijter off of a penalty corner from graduate back Alexandria Lavelle and a direct
shot by senior midfield/forward Anne Drabbe saved by the Quinnipiac defense. One more blocked shot from Lavelle kept the scoreboard unchanged and brought the half to a close, 2-1.
The second half started off strong offensively on both sides with three almost immediate scoring attempts off of a penalty corner from Quinnipiac and an immediate attempt at a response from de Ruijter that was quickly saved in the Quinnipiac goal. However, Mitchell was able to increase the lead for the ‘Cats by one more off of a penalty corner from Schwarz and assists by Lysaght and sophomore midfield/forward Maeve Boston. Quinnipiac fired off one more powerful shot on goal that nearly evened the score, and Nova went into the final 15 minutes of the game only ahead by one.
Nearly halfway through the final period, Lavelle was able to secure a Villanova win over Quinnipiac, scoring the team’s fourth and final goal following two back-to-back stopped scoring attempts off of her
WEEKLY SCOREBOARD
Sep. 25 – Oct. 1
Wednesday, Sept. 25
Thursday, Sept. 26
Women’s Soccer @ Creighton 2–0 W
Friday, Sept. 27
Women’s Tennis @ Navy Invite No Team Scoring
Women’s XC @ Nuttycombe 13th of 25
Men’s XC @ Nuttycombe 10th of 24
Field Hockey vs. Quinnipiac 4–2 W
Volleyball vs. Georgetown 3–0 W
Saturday, Sept. 28
Women’s Tennis @ Navy Invite No Team Scoring
Men’s Tennis @ Lehigh No Team Scoring
Volleyball vs. Seton Hall 3–1 W Football vs. LIU 24–10 W
Men’s Soccer @ St. John’s 2–1 W
Sunday, Sept. 29
Men’s Tennis @ Lehigh No Team Scoring Golf @ UConn T-4th of 13
Women’s Tennis @ Navy No Team Scoring Field Hockey vs. No. 7 Iowa 2–0 L
Women’s Soccer vs. No. 21 Xavier 3–0 L
Monday, Sept. 30
Men’s Golf @ UConn 3rd of 13
shot on goal. A green card on de Ruijter and one final attempt at leveling out the score by sophomore forward Colleen Finnan brought the third period to a close with the ‘Cats trailing, 1-0.
penalty corner. This puts the ‘Cats at 2-0 in the Big East and will have another opportunity to showcase their skill in conference play on Friday, Oct. 4 at UConn.
“I think [Iowa] is the perfect game to have before we play UConn in the Big East because we got to test ourselves against a very strong opponent and kind of figure out what we need to tweak to be successful against a very strong opponent on Friday,” Mitchell said. “We’re going to go out of this game with a lot of confidence, fix what we need to fix and get ready to compete on Friday.”
Coming off a conference win at home on Friday, the ‘Cats stayed at home to host Iowa on Sunday afternoon. Sears again guarded the Wildcat goal and was met with several quick scoring attempts early in both the first and second periods. Not for lack of attempt, the first half of the game ended with a blank scorecard for both teams. This quickly changed in the second half as Iowa sank their first goal off of an airball from Sears who was rebounding a preceding
An action packed final 15 minutes of play saw three more unsuccessful shots on goal from Villanova’s offense followed by a yellow card on de Ruijter in the 57th minute. With the ‘Cats playing in front of an empty net, the Hawkeyes took the opportunity to put one more goal on the board to finish out the game. This final goal led to a green card for Iowa, but ‘Nova was still unable to put the ball in the net. This non-conference matchup ended in a 2-0 loss for the ‘Cats.
“We were fortunate to play Iowa,” de Ruijter said. “They’re a very, very strong team. I do think that our team was never scared to play them. I think we were actually very excited, very confident, and I think we’ve shown very good hockey against a very good team. I’m very proud of everyone.”
“It was a very even game and I think we surprised Iowa,” Milhous said. “We didn’t surprise ourselves because we know the talent that we have on this team.”
Following their Big East game at UConn on Friday, the ‘Cats will hit the road again on Sunday, Oct. 6 to face their third Big 5 opponent, Penn.
Villanova defeated Quinnipiac, 4–2, on Friday and fell, 2–0, to No. 7 Iowa on Sunday. Courtesy of Villanova Athletics
Villanova (4–5–3, 1–1–1 Big East) picked up a road win over Creighton and home loss to No. 21 Xavier. Courtesy of Villanova Athletics
No. 5 Football Prepares for Stony Brook
Jon Hunn Staff Writer
Next Saturday, Oct. 5, Villanova (4-1, 1-0 Colonial Athletic Association) will travel north to take on Stony Brook (4-1, 1-0 Colonial Athletic Association) at Kenneth P. LaValle Stadium in Stony Brook, N.Y. Kickoff is at 3:40 p.m.
The Wildcats will hit the road again following a convincing home triumph over LIU, in which Villanova never trailed. The ‘Cats won, 24-10, after the Sharks put up 10 points in the fourth quarter.
Following the win, Villanova climbed back to No. 5 in the FCS Stats Perform Poll.
This matchup will be Villanova’s second conference game of the season. In the only other CAA contest that the ‘Cats have taken part in this season, they defeated Towson, 14-13, in a sloppy game that ended.
Graduate quarterback
Connor Watkins pushed his turnover-less start to the season to five consecutive games after the win over LIU. He continues to make smart plays with the football to protect against giveaways.
Watkins has 687 passing yards and five passing touchdowns so far this season.
Redshirt freshman Isaiah Ragland remains Villanova’s leading rusher, with 330 yards on 55 carries (6.0 YPC). Ragland ran in
Elijah McDow Staff Writer
two more touchdowns against LIU, taking over the team lead in rushing scores, with four.
The Wildcats have found the most success leaning on their ground game, winning several games in the trenches this season. Against LIU, the ‘Cats thrashed the Sharks for 266 ground yards on 51 totes to go along with three rushing scores.
Look for Villanova to continue to run the ball with frequency and efficiency to keep its winning formula against Stony Brook.
Freshman signal caller Malachi Marshall leads Stony Brook’s passing offense with his 814 yards, but Marshall has only one passing touchdown this season and two interceptions.
Stony Brook, like Villanova,
leans on its rushing attack. The Seawolves’ ground game is spearheaded by leading rusher Roland Dempster, a senior running back who paces the team with 585 rushing yards on 109 carries (5.4 YPC) to go along with an astounding nine rushing scores.
Villanova and Stony Brook have faced off seven times in history with Villanova leading the all-time series, 4-3.
The ‘Cats have won three straight against the Seawolves with the most recent victory coming in a 48-13 thrashing at Villanova Stadium on October 28, 2023.
Villanova will look to make it four straight victories against Stony Brook this Saturday. The game will be streamed on FloSports.
ATHLETE Q&A: Cat
Volleyball Outside Hitter
Angie Pearlman Staff Writer
Young Cat Young is a freshman outside hitter for Villanova volleyball. She hails from Flower Mound, Texas, a suburb of Dallas. She was a threetime First Team All-District honoree in Texas’s 6A District 6 at Flower Mound High School. As a Wildcat, Young has recorded 95 kills over the ‘Cats’ first 12 matches.
Q: What has it been like moving from Texas to Pennsylvania? How has the transition to college been?
A: “A big adjustment, I’d say. It’s way cooler over here, for sure. It’s been great. This community is awesome, the team’s awesome and we just connect here, along with all the students, really. It’s just a great environment to be in and I love being here.”
Q: What does game day preparation look like for you? Do you have any pre-game rituals?
A: “I’d say superstition, honestly. I wear the same hair tie every time. I also always like to have a quiet moment to myself before every game, and also just listen to hype music.”
Q: Any final words of wisdom?
A: “Go ‘Cats!”
Men’s Soccer Falls at St. John’s, 2-1
Villanova men’s soccer took the field in Queens, N.Y. on Saturday night for a matchup with St John’s. Hungry for their first win, the Wildcats started off strong before eventually falling behind and losing, 2-1.
The loss brings the Wildcats’ record to 0-5-4 and 0-2 in the Big East.
Head coach Mark Fetrow discussed the confidence his team had following its draw with No. 20 Penn on Sept. 24.
“From an attitude perspective, the guys were really buzzing and feeling really good,” Fetrow said. “They felt really confident coming into this game and that we were gonna take that momentum coming into this Big East game.”
The Wildcats brought this attitude for the entire first half. The score remained tied for the majority of the opening 45 minutes, but just six minutes before halftime, the Wildcats were awarded a penalty.
A cross from freshman midfielder/forward Karson Vaquez forced a hand ball from the St John’s defense. Vasquez has continued to make strides in training and in games. He has seen his minutes increase throughout the season.
While a freshman drew the penalty, it was the Wildcats’ most experienced player who stepped up to take the shot.
Graduate midfielder and team captain Jorge Garcia converted the penalty giving the Wildcats a 1-0 lead.
In his five years at Villanova, Garcia has proved to be a team leader and one of the Wildcats’ most dangerous playmakers.
“Jorge [Garcia] is our captain, and he’s a guy we rely on to have a lot of different responsibilities,” Fetrow said. “He’s a guy we lean on a lot and with that
comes a lot of pressure because we expect him in key moments of the game to come through for us and make sure that we’re on the right side of things.”
The Wildcats went into halftime with a 1-0 lead. In the past few games, they have either been trailing or tied at the break.
The Wildcats entered the second half with momentum, but by the 65th minute, they had lost their lead.
20 minutes into the second half, St. John’s equalized on a goal from sophomore midfielder Tyler Morck.
Five minutes after Morck’s equalizer, St. John’s sophomore midfielder Martin Kozak scored the game-winning goal.
Despite starting off the game with momentum and taking a lead into halftime, the Wildcats found themselves trailing, 2-1, with 22 minutes left in the game.
Conceding one, let alone two, goals was a shock for Fetrow and his staff, as the Wildcats had played some of their best soccer all year in the buildup to Garcia’s goal.
“I didn’t think we were gonna give up a goal,” Fetrow said. “I think us not giving up a goal in the first half has been relatively new for us and we felt really good about how we defended that first half. We gave us two goals [in the second half]. The first goal was directly something we had talked about, defending the back post and being organized. We didn’t do those things well so we’ve got to watch the tape, we’ve got to learn from them again and hopefully not make those same mistakes moving forward.”
Following the go-ahead goal from St John’s, the Wildcats searched for the equalizer, but were unable to find the tying goal and left Queens without a win.
Up next for the Wildcats is a Friday afternoon clash with UConn at Higgins Soccer Complex. Kickoff is at 4 p.m.
Villanova is still seeking its first win of the season. Courtesy of Villanova Athletics
No. 5 Villanova defeated Long Island, 24-10, last weekend. Graham Sukup/Villanovan Photography
Men’s Tennis Competes at Lehigh Invitational
Madison Hodges Staff Writer
Over the weekend, Villanova men’s tennis team traveled to Lehigh to compete in the Lehigh Invitational for its season opener.
During the two-day tournament, Villanova competed against Rider, Lafayette and Lehigh.
“I thought everything looked good to be honest,” Villanova head coach Brad Adams said. “I was very impressed with some of the freshmen as well as our transfer Kush Anand who picked up some very good wins. I thought we could have potentially played better doubles, but we are still trying to tweak the teams.”
In doubles play, sophomore Thomas Wakefield and freshman Cameron Kruep were able to defeat Lehigh freshman duo Jose Murariu and Nate Raney, 6-3. The rest of Villanova’s doubles pairings struggled to find a rhythm, and Lehigh seniors Marc Bleckhman and Sean Jaeger defeating Villanova sophomore Kush Anand and senior Trey Fourticq, 6-1. Lehigh freshman Ofer Hacohen and junior Jackson Morash defeated Villanova sophomore Will Monahan and freshman Jack Sherner, 6-2. Benedict Horn-Bourque and Luke Donovan of Lehigh got the victory over Villanova freshman Evan Ancu and sophomore Justin Frattarelli, 7-5. Villanova lost the doubles competition against Lehigh, 1-3.
“[We are trying] to find guys that are compatible with each other
and complement each other’s games,” Adams said. “In the fall it’s pretty loose as far as, like, no set teams. We can play around with teams.”
Heading into singles, Villanova showed more promise than in doubles but ultimately fell short again. Monahan defeated Lehigh’s Bleckhman in a commanding 8-4 win. Junior Cooper Gordon also won, defeating Lehigh’s Jaeger, 8-6. Anand got his first win as a Wildcat, defeating Hacohen, 8-7. Lehigh’s Murariu
defeated Fourticq, 8-1. The remaining five singles pairings went to the Mountain Hawks. Villanova lost the singles competition against Lehigh, finishing, 3-5.
The tennis team is entering a rebuilding year after losing several key upperclassmen. With a squad that is young and less experienced collegiately the team is concentrated on cultivating its new players and making preparations for the future. Adams said that the newcomers to the team
will add value.
“I think it really rejuvenated the team as far as they are excited to play,” Adams said. “Over the next couple of weeks we will see how they compete. But as far as practices have gone over the first four weeks of the season, it has gone extremely well. This is sort of like getting your foot wet a little bit for [the freshman] that have not seen college competition. So I am very excited to see how they compete next week at St. Joseph’s.”
The team has a total of four freshmen and four sophomores with one of the sophomores being Anand, who joins the program after playing his freshman year at Division III Williams College.
Anand had a strong freshman year at Williams, as he went 11-10 in singles and 13-9 in doubles competition, reaching the NCAA Division III Sweet Sixteen.
“Kush played two great matches in singles and had a very good doubles weekend,” Adams said.
With new players comes new goals, and Adams has some in mind.
“Compete within the Big East, that is always our top goal,” Adams said. “Be competitive and look for a conference title. Within the team building great brotherhood which I think helps us on the court and off the court. I think those are great goals for us.”
The team will travel to crosstown rivals St. Joseph’s to continue its season in the St. Joseph’s Invitational, Friday, Oct. 4, Saturday, Oct. 5 and Sunday, Oct. 6.
Photos: Volleyball vs. Georgetown
Villanova went 3-5 in doubles play against Lehigh. Courtesy of Villanova Athletics
Villanova is 9-4 through its first 13 matches of the season. Erick Quezada/Villanovan Photography
Villanova claimed two Big East wins over the weekend Erick Quezada/Villanovan Photography
Villanova has 16 matches remaining in its regular season. Erick Quezada/Villanovan Photography
The Crossword
Scan here to join the crossword section:
Villanova Dining Services
Rosh Hashanah Dinner
St. Mary’s Dining Hall
Thursday, October 3
Breakfast for Dinner
Dougherty Dining Hall
Wednesday, October 9
Featuring Omelets, Eggs Benedict, a French Toast bar, and more of your morning favorites!
