The Review T h e U n i v e r s i t y o f D e l a w a r e ’s i n d e p e n d e n t s t u d e n t n e w s p a p e r s i n c e 1 8 8 2
TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2015 VOLUME 141, ISSUE 16
FOR BREAKING NEWS AND MORE VISIT UDREVIEW.COM
FAREWELL, HARKER
KIRK SMITH/THE REVIEW President Patrick Harker is stepping down from post to become the president and chief executive officer of the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia.
Harker steps down as president to assume role at Philadelphia Fed ELIZABETH QUARTARARO CADY ZUVICH Editor-in-Chief & Executive Editor President Patrick T. Harker is stepping down to become president and chief executive officer of the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, effective July 1. In a message posted Monday morning on UDaily, Harker wrote he would work closely with the Board of Trustees and other administrators to “ensure a smooth transition in leadership.” The Philadelphia Fed announced Harker as the predecessor of President Charles I. Plosser, who retired March 1. Harker has served on the board of the Philadelphia Fed for three years. Fed spokesperson Marilyn Wimp said the search process began in September when Plosser announced his retirement. An executive search firm was hired in November, with Harker pulling out of the Board of Directors search committee when he became a candidate
for Plosser’s position. “We were fortunate to have an exceptional and wonderfully diverse slate of candidates and are delighted that Pat Harker emerged as the best person to serve as the next president and chief executive officer of the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia,” said James E. Nevels, chairman of the Philadelphia Fed’s board of directors. Harker’s announcement came the same day he was slated to give a speech titled “The Future of the University of Delaware” at the semester’s General Faculty Meeting Monday afternoon. Harker opened the speech by acknowledging his departure from the university and thanking faculty and staff for their guidance and work in making the university a vibrant place. Harker also said he will not be going far, as the state of Delaware is under the jurisdiction of the Philadelphia branch of the Federal Reserve. “I plan to stay in touch and informed and connected to the university,” Harker
said. “One of my goals as president of the Philadelphia Fed is for us to take advantage of the intellectual assets that are in the third district, the University of Delaware being a key one of them.” Harker leaves at the close of seven-year strategic plan, Path to Prominence, initiated in 2008 after assuming the presidency the previous year. He leaves as the next plan, Delaware Will Shine, comes into place. Harker entered the presidency just before the 2008 financial crisis—a shock for universities nationwide. Board of Trustees chairperson A. Gilchrist Sparks III said Harker’s leadership absorbed this shock. “He led the university very successfully through that period to the point where we are not at the process of decline,” Sparks said. “The last two years, he significantly lowered the increase in tuition. Our endowment recovered, and it was better than where we started.” See SPARKS page 3
What’s next?
Search to begin for next president CADY ZUVICH MATT BUTLER Executive Editor & Managing News Editor And so the search begins. In just four months a new president will be ushered onto campus, taking on the top position in Hullihen Hall. In a letter announcing his departure, Patrick T. Harker wrote he will work to “ensure smooth transition in leadership.” Compared to typical presidential searches, four months does not leave much time to find a new leader. Past president David P. Roselle announced his retirement a year before his official retirement. Domenico Grasso, second in command to the president, became provost after a deliberative eight-month search. This leaves into question whether an interim president will be announced to guarantee a longer search for a replacement. Tom Apple, former provost at the university during Harker’s tenure, said the usual search for a president is an arduous process. With search committee assembly, search
firm hiring, interviews and candidate review, Apple said the time can add up quickly. “Four months if absolutely everything is clicking,” Apple said. “Six months is your worst case scenario.” There is a large difference between the how public and private schools conduct their searches, Apple said, in that public schools must keep their searches largely open and transparent. UD does not have to disclose as much. Details of the search to replace Harker may be specified in upcoming weeks, but universities follow often uniform processes in deciding presidents. During the last presidential search in 2006, the 36-person search committee screened and recommended finalists, with the Board of Trustees making the final choice. The search committee also hired consultant William Funk of Korn/Ferry International to find these finalists. During his search, Funk also reached out to students holding discussions with the university community which led up to the hiring of Harker. See APPLE page 4
the Philly F ed
rk a H
er address
es
ulty
T he l e g a
Harker’s
le
at
fac
ro
WHAT’S INSIDE see page 3
cy
of
the la
s st 8 year
2
MARCH 3, 2015
THE REVIEW
TUESDAY, MARCH 3
PENCIL IT IN WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4 -Hunger Games and the Leadership Challenge, 5 - 6:30 p.m., Perkins Gallery -Acing the Interview for Business Majors, 5 - 7 p.m., 118 Purnell Hall
-Louis L. Redding Lecture on Civil Rights and Social Justice featuring Geoffrey Canada, 5 p.m., Mitchell Hall -Artist Talk and Reception, Colleen McCubbin, 5 p.m., 130 Smith Hall -Fast Forward: Innovative Women Edition 6 - 8:30 p.m., Venture Development Center, Co-Lab
THURSDAY, MARCH 5 -Thought Leader Speaker Series featuring Earl Lewis on “Why Learn: In Search of Higher Education’s Future,” 4 - 5:30 p.m., Roselle Center for the Arts -Peace Corps panel and presentation, 5 p.m., Career Services Center, Workshop Room -SCPAB Comedy show featuring Nicole Byer, Chris DiStefano and Andrew Schulz, 8 - 10 p.m., Trabant Multipurpose rooms
FRIDAY, MARCH 6
SATURDAY, MARCH 7
-Lights, Camera, EARTH! Environmental film festival: “Carbon Nation” 4 - 6 p.m. and “Breathing Earth” 7 - 9 p.m. -International Coffee Hour, 4 - 6 p.m., 44 Kent Way, Reception -UD REP presents “June and the Paycock,” 7:30 p.m., Center for the Arts
-NYC Bus Trip, 9 a.m., Trabant University Center -International Justice Mission: Now You Know performance, 12 - 3 p.m., Trabant Theater -“Through a Lens Darkly: Black Photographers and the Emergence of a People,” 2 - 4 p.m., Kirkbride Hall 006
SUNDAY, MARCH 8
MONDAY, MARCH 9
-International Film Series, “Force Majeure,” 7 - 10 p.m., Trabant Theater -UD Ballroom Dance Team public dance classes: Salsa/Hustle, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m., St. Thomas’s Episcopal Parish, Great Hall
-Celebration of Community Engagement, 5:30 - 8 p.m., Clayton Hall -Women’s History Month Film Series, 7 - 10 p.m., 204 Kirkbride Hall
TL;DR Going green
iPhones and ISIS
Flooding
A new Office of Sustainability could be coming to campus soon, as the university is now looking for a manager of the office to coordinate education efforts among students and lead environmental initiatives among departments at the university.
A man who operated a cell-phone repair stand in the Dover mall was financing a plot to fly two men to Syria, where they would then join the Islamic State movement. The Review would like to officially demand more of its cell-phone repair kiosk operators.
Courtyards
Students in the Courtyard Apartments came home to an unexpected surprise after pipes burst all over the complex. The Courtyard did offer to compensate students for any time spent in area hotels as a result of the floods.
“Too long; didn’t read” gives you weekly news summaries in 200 words or less.
B IDEN BEAT
Why Biden should fill Harker’s shoes (seriously) CADY ZUVICH Executive Editor
#TBT
After all, the vice president did hint of a presidential run. Before thinking of taking up residency at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Biden should first take a look at the equally luxurious 47 Kent Way. Not to completely disregard the possibility of tectonic political shifts that may happen between now and 2016, but the nomination won’t go to Joe. And if you can’t move up in The District, it’s time to move out. The VP would be good for the university. He brings to the table more political and social clout than Harker, and that says something. Harker’s connections and past experiences benefited the university in the long run, with our soon-to-be former president acting as the external man (albeit absent from campus). Harker gave us the largest fundraising year ever, and as much as we grimace about rising tuition, he made sure it rose in comparatively small increments. Biden can do just the same (if not more), evident of his ability to whip votes and make friends across the aisle. Plus, he’s no stranger to Dover. EMERY COOPERSMITH/ THE REVIEW
Though Biden does have one leg up on Harker’s legacy.
Biden has personality. Harker is stiff and dry. His tenure here was ephemeral. Harker is leaving, and I’m not sure we’ll ever have a grasp of who he really was. Not to say he didn’t leave his mark (in just eight years, he’s left a tremendous legacy), but Harker will go down in university history as a fix-it man rather than an affable, rememberable and longstanding university fixture that makes for a charismatic president. Biden has the charisma, and this is his home. He knows us, and we know him. He also knows a thing or two about higher education, gender-based violence and, well, Tubby Raymond’s legacy. The timetables do not exactly match up, as Biden still has some time left. Though I don’t think Biden should be off the table as a candidate. Yes, going from Vice President of the United States to President of the University of Delaware is unconventional. But when was Biden ever one to give what’s expected?
TO THE FUTURE PRESIDENTIAL SEARCH COMMITTEE,
Friday, December 1, 2006 Harker elected new university president
Patrick T. Harker was announced the 26th president of the university by Howard Cosgrove, chairman of the Board of Trustees, at a press conference at the Center for the Arts. Harker came to the university after serving as the dean of the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania since 1999, and assumed the presidency from David P. Roselle. The board stated it had searched for someone who would continue Roselle’s legacy. Overall, Harker’s election was met with positive feedback from the administration, with Roselle saying the university would be in good hands after he left.
Editor-in-chief: Elizabeth Quartararo Executive Editor: Cady Zuvich News: Matt Butler, Meghan Jusczak, Jay Panandiker, Alison Wilson Mosaic: Jagoda Dul, Jennifer Finn, Abbie Sarfo Sports: Jack Cobourn, Meghan O’Donnell, Jack Rodgers Copy Desk Chiefs: Cori Illardi, Monika Chawla, Amanda Weiler Editorial Editor: Elizabeth Catt
WWW.UDREVIEW.COM
Visual Directors: Krista Adams, Hannah Griffin
President Harker’s departure comes at a pivotal, yet exciting, time for higher education. We are told that changes and innovation are coming our way. To guarantee these changes are seen through, The Review has issued the following recommendations for the upcoming presidential search: A transparent search is necessary, now more than ever. If student input is truly valued, everyone should be fully involved in understanding the search process for the new president. Past administrative searches have largely excluded the general student body. While we know the university does not have to disclose the source process, some of this information should be volunteered. This sort of engagement with administrators is necessarily for student-centered institutions. It’s concerning that Harker’s impending departure leaves us with only four months to find our new president. If these tectonic shifts are occurring in higher education, we need the most capable leader possible ready to adapt to these changes. Finding the right leader will take time. An interim president—perhaps someone within the university—should be considered to ensure a rigorous search process takes place. We also hope to find a president who will be visible around campus. To see a president on The Green, at important forums or events, or responding to important moments for the student body would strengthen our sense of community. Many students feel a distance between themselves and administration. There is a need for a culture change to remedy this distance, and this is something that can happen with the right leadership. Harker brought a lot to the table. Though he is criticized for not being visible on campus, he often handled external affairs, leading to comparatively modest tuition hikes and our most successful fundraising year ever. We need someone with these connections—someone with the ability to work with those in Dover—to maintain fair conditions for the university’s economic forecast. Finally, we hope that we can see diversity in background, experiences and thought in the candidates considered for the position. We are excited for the potential someone could bring to the office, and we look forward to seeing the search process begin. Faithfully Yours, The Review
MARCH 3, 2015
THE REVIEW
TIMELINE
Harker issues apology, cuts meeting short
Harker’s time in office
December 1, 2006
The university announces Harker will take over as president for David Roselle, who had served in the position since 1990.
JAY PANANDIKER ELIZABETH QUARTARARO Managing News Editor & Editor-in-Chief President Patrick T. Harker issued an apology to faculty members on Monday at a General Faculty meeting, just hours after he announced his pending departure from the university. After briefly acknowledging news that he was stepping down as president, Harker recognized the controversial Philadelphia Inquirer op-ed he penned Feb. 5 and apologized for any offense felt by faculty. “It was never my intention to dismiss or belittle the excellent work being done by our faculty,” Harker said. “To those who I offended, I apologize. I certainly never intended to seem hostile or dismissive. In fact, my intention has always been just the opposite.” The op-ed––centered on the future of higher education––drew a critical response from the University of Delaware chapter of the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) for its treatment of faculty. The AAUP were “justifiably offended” by some of Harker’s characterizations of faculty. In an email inviting faculty to Monday’s meeting, Harker opened by saying he had spoken and written many times in the past year about the “economic, societal and demographic forces driving fundamental changes in higher education” and said some “voiced concern” about these ideas. In the email he went on to praise faculty as a driving force for the university’s successes, which he reiterated in his meeting. He invited faculty to attend the General Faculty Meeting to continue the conversation; the meeting agenda included a Question and Answers session immediately following Harker’s opening remarks. See HARKER page 4
3
July 1, 2007
Harker is officially instated as the university’s 26th president.
May 2008 Path to Prominence introduced.
is
2009
Institute for Global Studies opens, in accordance with goals stated in Path to Prominence.
October 24, 2009
KIRK SMITH/THE REVIEW Provost Domenico Grasso looks on as President Patrick Harker talks new Fed position at Monday’s General Faculty Meeting.
SPARKS: ‘HE’S CAUSED US TO LOOK BEYOND BOUNDARIES OF OUR OWN UNIVERSITY AND STATE TO MAKE SURE UD IS WELL-POSITIONED.’ Continued from page 1 Under Path to Prominence, the university launched development of STAR Campus, bolstering its focus on health sciences and medical technologies. The Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Lab opened— funded significantly by donors—as the first new sciences building on campus in two decades. With the ISE Lab came a focus on problem-based learning and the addition of preceptors who assist students in introductory lab courses. Harker also guided the school to record high enrollment and an expanded Commitment to Delawareans. Under his presidency, the university in 2011 had a record year for fundraising, collecting
$51,353,282 in gifts. Harker has recently been active in discussions regarding higher education, penning an op-ed in the Philadelphia Inquirer on universities’ need to become more learner-centric. Harker has also stepped into conversations about student athletes and community college, publishing op-eds in The New York Times and Huffington Post. During his time here, the university has faced criticism for its lack of diversity and become embroiled in community conflict over the proposed power plant at STAR Campus, though the university eventually backed out of the project. The university is now facing a lawsuit with Data Centers LLC, the company who sought to build the 279MW
natural-gas-fired power plant to campus. “He’s challenged all of us,” Sparks said. “We’ve made the promise to change the face of education. He’s caused us to look beyond boundaries of our own university and state to make sure UD is well-positioned.” Harker’s new position at the Philadelphia Fed speaks for his success as president, Sparks added. “It will be good to have somebody to know Delaware’s position, and frankly the fact that he’s gone to the president to this position shows how well this institution is viewed, and how well his job is viewed,” Sparks said. “You don’t just move into a position like this without performing well in your previous job.”
The university officially purchases the STAR Campus land for $24.5 million.
January 20, 2011
University cuts men’s track and cross country in order to come back under compliance with Title IX regulations.
October 19, 2011 Confucius Institute launches.
June 14, 2012
1743 Holdings, a university subsidiary, and The Data Centers agree on a land development deal.
December 2012
The Data Centers and the university sign a 75 year land lease, and preliminary development of the STAR Campus power plant project begin.
September 9, 2013
Thousands of students mob Main Street after a party by YouTube legend I’m Shmacked is broken up by police.
October 17, 2013
The Interdisclipinary Science and Engineering (ISE) Laboratory celebrates its grand opening.
December 9, 2013
The Fed: Harker’s new role, explained
The first Institute for Financial Services Analytics in the country is approved by Faculty Senate.
February 2014
First STAR Campus building opens, a new health sciences complex. JAY PANANDIKER Managing News Editor President Patrick T. Harker will embark on a new kind of venture when he assumes his role as president and chief executive officer of the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia. The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia is one of the 12 regional Reserve Banks that, together with the Board of Governors in Washington, D.C., make up the Federal Reserve System, according to a press release from the bank. Each branch helps formulate and implement monetary policy within the district, supervise banks and loan holding companies, as well as provide services to depository institutions and the federal government. Harker will oversee Philadelphia Fed’s 900 employees in his new roll, and will rotate in as a member of the Federal Open Market Committee, which votes on monetary policy issues. Five governors sit on this committee, which sets the Federal Funds rate—the rate at which banks lend money to one another. This rate determines the interest rate on loans, which in turn sets the tone for the macroeconomy. Harker has served as a nonbanking Class B director of the Philadelphia Fed for the past three years and will succeed Charles I. Plosser,
who retired effective March 1. The Philadelphia Fed has nine directors, three of whom have the responsibility of selecting the new president. Harker was one of the other six directors. The search for a new president at the Philadelphia Fed began after Plosser announced his retirement in September 2014, Marilyn Wimp, manager of media relations at Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, stated in an email message. An executive search firm was hired by the search committee in November 2014. As Harker sits on the board of the Philadelphia Fed, he recused himself from the search process once he became a candidate, Wimp stated. Though Harker is not the economist that other past presidents of Federal Reserves have been, Burt Abrams, an economics and monetary policy professor, said it is not unusual to have non economists as presidents. Each president has a large staff of economists that provide feedback and support to the president, he said. “Certainly having been a dean of one of the most prestigious business schools in the country and his connections with the business community at Wharton would’ve certainly provided him with business and finance understanding
that would’ve made him an attractive candidate,” Abrams said. Vincent Marra, an economics instructor who teaches classes in monetary policy, said non-economists as branch governors was traditionally uncommon, but has become increasingly common as of late. Marra agreed that Harker’s
“The Fed is steeped in tradition, which may not be to Harker’s liking.” - Vincent Marra, economics instructor
experience at Wharton will help him at the Federal Reserve and allow him to succeed there. “He has a dynamic personality, but I honestly have no idea whether his skill set and leadership ability will prove him to be a strong
appointment or not,” Marra said. “The Fed is steeped in tradition which may not be to Harker’s liking. On the other hand, Chairperson Janet Yellen may be looking for a different way of thinking at the Fed.” James E. Nevels, chairman of the Board of Directors at the Bank, said Harker emerged from a “wonderfully diverse slate of candidates.” “His deep roots in the region, his distinguished career in academia, his drive for innovation, and his passion to make our region an economic engine for the future truly impressed our board,” Nevels said. Harker will report to the directors of the Philadelphia Fed, responsible for making public addresses dealing with related monetary policy and his opinions on the situation, Abrams said. Managing the Fed. will require a lot of oversight because if anything goes wrong, the president is responsible. “It’s an important position and comes with a considerable amount of prestige so I wish him the best in contributing to the monetary policy of the country,” Abrams said.
July 7, 2014 School announces 2014-2015 tuition rates with lowest increases in over 30 years.
July 10, 2014
The university announces it has terminated its lease with The Data Centers, ending the much-maligned power plant project at STAR Campus.
August 2014 School has largest freshman enrollment in school history.
September 11, 2014
Harker condemns racist remarks made on social media towards Delaware State.
September 19, 2014 The #UDoBetter rally is held on the steps of Memorial Hall, urging changes to the university’s sexual assault response policies
December 5, 2014
Harker sends email to students commending recent campus activism in the wake of national police violence.
February 2015
University faculty and the Delaware chapter of the NAACP both target Harker publicly for an op-ed in the Philadelphia Inquirer and a lack of diversity, respectively
WWW.UDREVIEW.COM
4
MARCH 3, 2015
THE REVIEW
Admin. approves Office of Sustainability after two-year effort ELIZABETH QUARTARARO Editor-in-chief A position has been posted on UDJobs for a Manager of an Office of Sustainability following more than two years of student and task force-led efforts. The manager is to lead campus-wide sustainability education and implementation at many levels, including through student organizations, academic departments and community organizations, according to the posting. In working with departments like Facilities Maintenance and Operations, the manager is also to integrate sustainable practices in “energy management, operations, maintenance, renovations, grounds keeping, parking and transportation, solid waste management and cleaning practices,” the posting said. Efforts to create an Office of Sustainability stemmed from student participants in the University’s Sustainability Taskforce and the Sustainability Policy Working Group who sought a coordinated, centralized office to lead sustainability projects at the university.
Faculty Senate discusses revamping Gen. Eds JAGODA DUL Managing Mosaic Editor Monday’s Faculty Senate meeting directly followed President Patrick T. Harker’s address and featured a presentation about the reconstruction of general education requirements for students. John Pelesko, chair of the general education task force, said this general education revamp will happen at the university requirement level. The proposed draft is broken down into three main sections: three core requirement classes, an engagement and encounters requirement and a capstone requirement. The first year experience requirement will carry over from the previous program. The engagement and encounters requirement would provide students the opportunity to choose a cocurricular activity for credit, such as undergraduate research or service learning, Pelesko said. Students can also choose from courses on an approved list, which is yet to be yet to be created. The core requirements would consist of CORE 110, a similar course to the current English 110 university requirement, CORE 120, called “The Grand Challenges, Great Debates and Big Ideas of the Future” and CORE 210, called “The Grand Challenges, Great Debates and Big Ideas of the Past.” The “Grand Challenges” classes would give students a basis for solving big problems facing modern society, which students would encounter in their careers, Pelesko said. The “Grand Challenges” of the Past course is to be taken later in a student’s career and examines the challenges, debates and
JORDAN MCBRIDE Staff Reporter At a race and social justice symposium Thursday afternoon, alumnus Brooklyn Hitchens asked “how do we make ourselves feel comfortable in an alienating community?” Hitchens highlighted low for retention rates for freshman and sophomore minority students, sparking conversation on the effects of feeling out of place on campus. The daylong symposium entitled “The Difficult Conversation: Race and Social Justice in America” was held in the Trabant Multipurpose rooms, focusing on diversity and inequality. A documentary directed by professor Yasser Payne was screened before a workshop on how to be an ally to underrepresented
WWW.UDREVIEW.COM
ideas of the past through the lense of the humanities, social sciences and sciences. “This new program requires a partnership between departments, majors and general education requirements,” Pelesko said. “We don’t want any tension.” Pelesko said there will be an open hearing meeting on March 23, but the task force hopes to receive feedback from the faculty prior to that date. Following the open hearing meeting, Pelesko said the task force aims to have a resolution of the proposal passed by the Faculty Senate at their meeting in April. Implementation would ideally begin fall 2015 with a pilot program. The details of the pilot program have not been decided yet, but Pelesko said a random sample of 300 to 400 students would be the best candidates for the new program to measure its effectiveness across the board. “Whatever choices we make, we must prioritize student learning,” Pelesko said. Deputy Provost Nancy Brickhouse also reported on the success of the new four-week winter session program. Of the 7,875 students enrolled, 708 (9 percent) registered for four week classes. The total increase in registration from winter 2013’s numbers was 12 percent. “We need to give this program time to develop and gain further traction,” Brickhouse said. Before the Senate adjourned, civil engineering professor Michael Chajes spoke about President Harker’s remarks during the general faculty meeting. He said he hopes the Faculty Senate can play a role in the selection process of the new university president to ensure a smooth transition.
KIRK SMITH/THE REVIEW Everett Toomey, member of the Board of Trustees, at last semester’s general meeting. The Board oversees presidential hirings.
APPLE: “PAT CAME ACROSS VERY MUCH AS A VISION GUY, A BIG THINKER.” Continued from page 1 Funk is renowned for finding university presidents and chancellors, and since 2006 has founded his own higher education consulting firm R. William Funk and Associates, which most recently heading the search for University of North Carolina-Greensboro’s future chancellor. Leading the search will be Board of Trustees chairman A. Gilchrist Sparks III. The search committee has yet to be formed––as the board has yet to meet following Harker’s announcement–– though Sparks gave a rough
outline of what is to come. Sparks said the search will be “very thorough.” “The board will supervise the search committee looking for a new president,” Sparks said. “That search team will not just be board members, but will also include representatives of faculty.” Harker was very impressive, Apple said, because he exuded ambition in his 2007 interview during the search to replace Roselle. “Pat came across very much as a vision guy, a big thinker,” Apple said. “He had an optimism about him, too, that I remember reflected
very well.” The board will also establish the qualities they wish to see in the future president, Sparks said. The next president will come in the midst of the university’s new strategic plan Delaware Will Shine, which may be considered during the search. “Clearly we want someone to continue the momentum the university has achieved with the last two great presidents,” Sparks said. “In my time as a trustee, the trajectory has always been up. We are hoping to continue that dynamic.”
HARKER: ‘THE GOOD NEWS IS THAT ADAPTING TO ALL OF THESE CHALLENGES DOES NOT REQUIRE US TO ABANDON OUR BEDROCK VALUES OF SCHOLARSHIP, RESEARCH AND COMMUNITY SERVICE.’ Continued from page 3 Monday’s meeting, however, consisted only of Harker’s address and ended without a Question and Answers period, to the audible dismay of some in attendance. Harker said his goal in writing multiple opinion pieces has always been to start a conversation about the major issues facing higher education in America. Harker said he wants to be sure the university is prepared for what lies ahead. Diversity and affordability are two of the big issues that face universities, Harker said. He added that too often these issues come into the spotlight only to quickly fade away. Harker voiced optimism
about the university’s future and said the university has lasted this long because it has stuck to its core principles and values, and he is optimistic about its future. He also said that the faculty had secured $200 million in funding for the university, putting it in the top 100 schools in the country. “You are the reason students choose to come to UD,” Harker said. “Sure we have a pretty campus and good sports teams, but so do a lot of schools. When it comes down to where they are going to spend their time and money, students look to our faculty and our curriculum.” Harker also said the university has benefited the state through its
Commitment to Delawareans and Associate in Arts program, as well as through its considerable economic impact. He also thanked the faculty for their input, particularly on the Delaware Will Shine initiative. “The good news is that adapting to all of these challenges does not require us to abandon our bedrock values of scholarship, research and community service,” Harker said. “Adapting does mean we have to interpret those values in new ways.” The Review invites members of the university community to submit letters to our op-ed section on this topic. Please send letters of 500 words or less to editorial editor Elizabeth Catt at ecatt@udel.edu.
Lack of diversity addressed at race symposium communities. There was also a conversation emceed by alumnus James Church and Hitchens on activism in hiphop. This event comes at a critical time, following a letter sent from the president of the state’s chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) Richard Smith to President Harker condemning what the organization sees as a “serious systemic problem regarding diversity” at the university. Vice Provost for Diversity at the university Carol Henderson echoed the NAACP’s concerns. She pointed to students as mechanisms for change and said diversity initiatives need to come from them. “We, as a university, need to challenge tradition and step outside of our comfort
zones,” Henderson said. Payne’s documentary, “The Streets of Harlem” which was featured at the symposium, is currently trying to break into the film festival circuit. It spurred discussions of inequality and the lack of representation black students have on college campuses. “Blacks are being permanently sealed off from universities due to lack of accessibility [to them],” Payne said, going on to explain the importance of equipping more young minorities with strong educational skill sets. Junior Greg Austin said the lack of diversity is a problem for everyone on this campus. “Students need to do a lot more and have discussions like this,” Austin said. “We need each other. We benefit from people who come from
different backgrounds.” However, in spite of the importance placed on students to work together to foster diversity and inclusion on campus, students were in the minority of the event’s attendees. Since the symposium was held during classes, Henderson said, many students were unfortunately unable to attend. Students were not the only ones missing from the symposium. There were also no visible senior administrators in attendance. Professor and Director of the Honors Program Michael Arnold said this was disappointing. “It’s disappointing that they don’t make an appearance at more events like this,” Arnold said. “If we are to create a successful atmosphere of diversity, then they need to make an
appearance.” According to Henderson, 75 people reserved seats for the symposium. She said she plans to organize a similar event during National Diversity Month in April of next year and hopes classes will be suspended so more faculty and students can attend. It would be called “A Day of Understanding” and would comprise of campuswide service projects to build “bridges of understanding” across diverse communities, Henderson said. Despite Thursday’s turnout, Henderson is optimistic about the impact of the day’s events. “It’s profound that this many people did come,” she said. “I couldn’t be more pleased.”
MARCH 3, 2015
THE REVIEW
5
Campus gun rights advocates push for concealed carry to prevent rape PATRICK WITTERSCHEIN Senior Reporter While colleges across the country debate over how to end to sexual violence, some gun rights supporters believe the answer may lie just beneath the surface—a concealed firearm that can be used to deter predators. Most states have laws prohibiting firearms on campus, and those without laws leave the policy up to the school. But some states like Delaware give individual schools the decision, with most choosing to ban guns. University policy prohibits possession of all weapons on campus, including guns. This policy extends to students, faculty and visitors to the university and “applies irrespective of any license, authority, or concealed weapon or other permit.” Supporters of campus carry laws are beginning to argue that guns on campus would not only increase security in the event of a campus shooting or hostage situation but also could be used as an effective tool in combating sexual assaults. Bills to allow firearms on campus have been introduced in 10 states, in addition to the nine that already allow guns. Leading the movement is Students for Concealed Carry, a national, non-partisan group with more than 43,000 members. According to its website, school shootings and gun violence on campus “clearly demonstrate that ‘gun free zones’ serve to disarm only those law-abiding citizens who might otherwise be able to protect themselves.” Opponents counter that college campuses are poor environments to allow guns, especially considering the frequency of binge drinking and alcohol fueled altercations.
To some, the idea of carrying firearms to prevent rape reflects a misunderstanding of the common causes of assaults. Sophomore Sage Carson who serves on the Faculty Senate Commission for Sexual Assault Prevention, said trying to solve campus rape by arming students is just adding another level to an already complex issue. Carson said a lack of understanding of how rapes usually occur can feed into society’s “rape myth”—the idea that all rapes are perpetrated by strangers on the street. Far more likely is the type of rape that begins with some sort of consensual activity that quickly changes into an attack. Rape myth reinforces the notion that victims are most vulnerable to outside forces “when in all reality, almost all assaults happen by someone that’s with you,” Carson said. “Whether it’s an acquaintance, a friend, something like that.” Carson said in her opinion, gun rights and political organizations are disingenuously pretending to care about victims simply to advance their own agenda. Carson said that if these groups really cared about victims, they would have a difference approach. “They would be focused on educational programs, focused on consent or healthy relationships and things like that starting at a young age, rather than giving someone a gun. That won’t help anyone.” But for some students, the threat of violence is enough for them to take measures to protect themselves. While the university’s policy prohibits guns on campus, some students still feel an urgent need for the protection a firearm affords. Senior Tyler Yzaguirre is president of Students for the Second Amendment and a supporter of campus carry
laws. “I am 110 percent for allowing students to conceal carry on campus,” Yzaguirre said. Most important to Yzaguirre is the right for citizens to protect themselves, especially after they have completed the training and requirements for a concealed carry license in the State of Delaware. Yzaguirre said he does not carry a firearm on campus due to school policy, but he feels strongly that people with a license should be allowed to carry concealed weapons in any location except certain places described in state law. Violent crime has enough of an effect on students to put some on edge, and Yzaguirre said that if students don’t feel safe they should be free to make the choice to arm themselves. “I bet, 50 to 60 percent of girls on this campus carry pepper spray—is that stopping the rapes?” Yzaguirre said. “No, it’s not. Even the visual, even if someone sees the firearm, that will deter them enough.” For Yzaguirre, the issue can be boiled down to education and awareness, which is why Students for the Second Amendment works to spread awareness of firearm safety. “It’s like fire,” Yzaguirre said. “If you know how to work fire, you’re not going to get burned. Once you understand it, you’re not scared of it.” Violation of this policy could result in disciplinary action for students, as well as civil or criminal proceedings. The only guns allowed on campus are those carried by university police and special exceptions made at the discretion of the Chief of Police. Gun supporters and sexual assault prevention groups are
EMERY COOPERSMITH/THE REVIEW Student groups promote concealed carry on campus as means of self defense. united in striving for protection and safety but are at odds when it comes to a solution. For Carson, placing guns in the hands of potential victims is tackling the problem from the wrong end. Instead of preventing rape with a gun, she advocates acknowledging the social factors that have built our modern “rape culture.” Carson said in politics, the
focus is often on victims taking action to defend themselves, rather than focusing on how to actually prevent people from raping. “It shows the biggest issue of the cultural problems that we have, of making this all about victims, and nothing about the perpetrators,” Carson said.
Pipes burst at University Courtyard, flooding apartments ALISON WILSON Associate Editor
Courtesy of Lindsay Trause Lindsay Trause’s University Courtyards apartment under construction post-flooding.
“All of a sudden I heard, like, Niagara Falls coming from my roommate’s room,” said junior Alyssa Bagnato. Approximately 300 gallons of water surged from pipes that burst in the bathroom ceiling, flooding her University Courtyard apartment late evening Feb. 15. This was not an isolated event, however, as pipes burst all across the complex—likely as a result of frigid weather conditions—flooding numerous units. The steady stream, which Bagnato said was enough to shower under, poured from the vent and holes in the ceiling. Junior Melissa Cannon said they had received an email from the Courtyard prior to the incident instructing them to run the bathtubs in the apartment and to contact management immediately if the water did not flow. After discovering the water would not run in her roommate Shannon Vercammen’s tub, Cannon called management. However, she said, no one came to address the situation. “They were up to their elbows with problems,” Bagnato said. University Courtyard management was unable to be reached for comment for this article. Cannon, the first of the tenants to see the flooding, ran
from her first level apartment to the unit above to tell them not to use their water. She called maintenance, and this time they arrived within 15 minutes. Vercammen’s bathroom ceiling collapsed completely, and the carpeting in her room needed to be replaced. Fans and dehumidifiers were set up in the apartment, Laura Mosco, also a junior, said. Senior Lindsay Trause found a similar scene in her Courtyard apartment. Trause arrived home at 3 p.m. Feb. 16 to an unlocked icedover door. The entrance was flooded with about an inch of water, as was the kitchen. While her bedroom was unaffected aside from water stains and a bit of dripping in her personal bathroom, two of her roommates’ rooms were more seriously damaged, she said. That night their ceilings were ripped out so the insulation could be replaced. The laminate flooring in the kitchen was removed, and the wall separating bedrooms A and B was torn down. “I’m living in a construction zone basically,” Trause said. There are constantly workers coming in and out. “It’s loud,” Trause said. “It smells disgusting. It’s gross. It’s really gross.” She cannot cook or do laundry. The stove does not work, and the fridge was unplugged at one point. It’s a
real inconvenience, she said. The Courtyard has been doing a good job with cleanup and construction, but keeping her abreast of the situation is another story entirely, Trause said. She moved in three weeks ago and must not have been added to the mailing list because while other flood victims have been receiving email updates, she has not. While she said she feels frustrated, she knows what has happened is no one’s fault. Maintenance has been doing the proper things, but it is just a lengthy process. Cannon said she and her roommates did not have an apartment for about a week. They stayed with a friend the first night. She, Bagnato and Mosco returned the following day, but Vercammen stayed in a hotel. “We were kind of stuck here because initially they weren’t contacting us about alternate housing arrangements,” Mosco said. Trause said she heard Courtyard would reimburse anyone who decided to stay in a hotel, $75 per night, however she stayed in her apartment because her own room is livable. Courtyard Manager Carl Jones told Trause, she said, her roommates will hopefully be able to move back in within a week, but two is more realistic.
Pronoun changes in Title IX policy promote inclusion AMY HOPKINS Senior Reporter The university is changing documents to incorporate gender-neutral pronouns revolving around Title IX policy to include students who do not identify within the gender binary of male and female. Sophomore Sage Carson, who organized the
#UDoBetter rally this fall, said she noticed the lack of inclusion while reviewing documents in a Faculty Senate meeting. Policies should not be gendered, she said, because it fosters exclusion. Carson serves on the Commission on Sexual Harassment and Assault, and expressed her concerns about the wording in Title IX documents to fellow
member Kathleen Turkel, a women and gender studies professor. “I asked her to make a motion on my behalf to have it changed to gender-neutral pronouns or have it changed so it was gender neutral in general,” Carson said. Turkel made the motion to have gendered pronouns “he” and “she” changed to more inclusive terms such
as “they” and “their.” When they made the motion, Carson said many people did not understand that there are people identify as genderqueer or outside the binary, so it acted as a moment of education, she said. She said making the pronouns gender neutral in the Title IX policy can have a “trickledown” effect and educate the campus
community, starting with the faculty. “Being conscious of the fact that maybe someone identifies differently as you would perceive it is important,” Carson said. She said the best thing about the pronoun change is it can begin conversation to bring about more awareness and change.
WWW.UDREVIEW.COM
6
MARCH 3, 2015
THE REVIEW
Maryland Gov. Ehrlich talks leadership during visit HANNAH TATE Senior Reporter Former Maryland Gov. Robert Ehrlich shared his definition of leadership with students and discussed congressional gridlock this past Thursday for the Blue Hen Leadership Program’s spring kickoff event. The former Republican governor spoke to students and other attendees about leadership in their lives. There are 10 elements to leadership, Ehrlich said, with the first being consistency. Others included integrity, discipline, management and Ehrlich’s most important, security. “In my experience in athletics, in politics—in life, with our family, to my view these are the 10 that really count,” Ehrlich said. Ehrlich helped coach the audience on leadership by explaining each element of his definition, often sharing personal experiences to further explain the term. “As governor and congressman I wrote my own speeches,” Ehrlich said. “I wanted my consumers to know that I really believed what I was saying. That my words were reflective of my beliefs.”
Ehrlich was governor of Maryland for one term, between 2002 and 2006. He later ran again for governor in 2010. During his tenure as governor Maryland opened its first charter school and the governor’s administration invested significantly in education. Ehrlich also explained that integrity was one of his ten elements of leadership. “The best definition of integrity ever is doing the right thing when nobody is looking,” Ehrlich said. Despite this, the former governor has been controversial in some circles due to his campaign tactics. In 2006, his campaign mailed flyers to AfricanAmerican Democratic voters that implied the Republican ticket was endorsed by Democratic leaders. In 2010, an Ehrlich campaign manager was convicted of using 112,000 robocalls in order to suppress the black vote. When Ehrlich opened up the floor for questions, many in the audience wanted to know what experiences shaped his definition of leadership. One audience member asked what Ehrlich’s biggest regret in college was and
RANDI HOMOLA/THE REVIEW Former Maryland Gov. Robert Ehrlich discussed his leadership styles, despite being a controversial politician.
how he built upon it. “I didn’t take more economics courses, because I ended up in politics and politics is all about economics,” Ehrlich said. “If you get to Congress, it’s a free graduate degree.” Ehrlich was also asked why there was so much gridlock in Congress. Its the most frequent question he’s asked, Ehrlich said, but he told the audience he has an answer and solution. “It’s the pension of the state legislatures today to draw safe seats, more than ever,” he said. “When you go to your town meeting in a safe seat you hear ‘don’t compromise’ and when you go to Washington you have the same mindset. Your motivation to compromise is decreased significantly.” Another result of state legislatures drawing safe seats is the lack in diversity of political parties in different parts of the United States, he said. In the past there were moderate Republicans in the Northeast and conservative Democrats in the South. They’re almost completely wiped out today from state legislatures drawing those safe seats, Ehrlich said. His suggested solution is to make party lines nonpartisan, like California has done. Freshman Grant Smith said he thought this was one of the most interesting topics of the night. “I think there’s a negative connotation with Congress in general and he kind of reversed that and said it’s all about loyalty, and to be careful with it,” Smith said. Ehrlich’s wife, university alumna Kendel Ehrlich also was in attendance, and answered a student’s question on whether she and her husband trust people. “I would say after all is said and done we do trust people, but I do think that in politics...you have to realize that many people are loyal to their paycheck,” she said. One of the last questions of the night was one undoubtedly on the minds of most attendees. Will Ehrlich will run for president? “Next question,” Ehrlich replied to the student.
DYLAN GALLIMORE
POLITICS STRAIGHT: NO CHASER Obama shows true colors with pipeline veto Throughout his presidency, President Barack Obama has done his best to claim that he’s in favor of job creation and energy independence. He has battled Republican claims to the contrary for years now, with the most gusto during the 2012 election. But this week, the President made a move that has made his pro-jobs and proenergy independence claims laughable: he vetoed a bill that would approve the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline. The bill cleared both houses of Congress with bipartisan support. 28 House and nine Senate Democrats (including Delaware’s own Tom Carper) supported the bill. The Keystone XL pipeline would transport tar oil sands from Canada throughout the American Midwest down to the Gulf Coast, and, according to a report released by the State Department, would not significantly alter greenhouse gas emissions. The construction of the Keystone XL pipeline would create thousands of jobs—some estimates say up to 50,000—while also enabling North America to become more energy independent. In a written statement to Congress explaining why the bill “earned [his] veto,” Obama said, “…this act of Congress conflicts with the established executive branch procedures and cuts short thorough consideration of issues that could bear on our national interest including our security, safety, and environment…” It is particularly hypocritical for the President to claim some deep-seated reverence for constitutional procedure, as he has made it clear that he intends to use the closing years of his presidency to unilaterally change laws he dislikes through executive action. And by definition, a pro jobs, pro energy independence bill that would also have minimal environmental impact contributes to our nation’s
CLASSIFIEDS
HELP WANTED
WANTED Marketing Coordinator Part Time for Financial Planner Must be literate in Windows and Word Please call Regina at 302-339-3802 Film/Social Media Person to assist with Vlog/Blogging for website. Video skills needed. Part time, fun position with compensation. Call/text Brenda: 302-396-0216
Nurse practitioner needed for house calls. $30 per visit. Work around your schedule. New Company. Check out website www.healthoncall.net. Call Cynthia for more details 877-571-4800 Local cleaning services company in search of a part-time cleaning professional. Expected days and hours are: Monday and Friday 8:30am10:30am in Claymont and Tuesdays and Thursdays 8:30am-4:00pm in Wilmington. Must have valid drivers license and successfully pass criminal background check and drug test prior to hire. For more information call Patrick at 302.420.2909.
Camp Mataponi, now hiring paid summer internships and jobs. We are a children’s summer camp on Sebago Lake, Maine. Over 100 different positions available. Salaries starting at $2100+ room and board. www.campmataponi.com or 561-748-3684
WWW.UDREVIEW.COM
FOR SALE
House for Sale. Old New Castle: $259,999 or short term rental $1500mo. Ideal for faculty or staff. 25 minutes to UD. Borders park, scenic view Del. river. Fenced yard for dogs. 2 B/R. 302-322-1848
FOR RENT Academy Corner (Skidrow) 4 bedroom townhouse Washer, dryer, stove Dishwasher, refrigerator 302-598-6177 Email: nicholas.baldini@gmail.com
House on Prospect Ave, 4 person, W/D, Deck 302-528-7765 Remodeled two bedroom units behind Main Street for next school year. Near UD/Newark bus stops. Ideal for shopping, dining, bar hopping, strolling or working downtown, but also quiet locale with nice yard. Washer/dryer on site. Sorry, no pets. $845/per month or $1690 per month for two adjacent units. Leave message @ 302-369-1288 or email campusrentals@webtv.net
FOR RENT
KERSHAW COMMONS TOWNHOUSES FOR RENT 3 bedroom remodeled townhouse 2 bedroom 3 or 4 person 1 house still available for next year NCG LLC - please call for more info 302-368-8864 ejsproperties@comcast.net
security and safety while not having any adverse effects on the environment. The President seems to simply be on a different planet. The president is playing a shameful game of politics. The far left loudly detests the Keystone XL pipeline, regarding it as a symbol of our nation’s dependency on oil. They also regard Republicans as the party of “Big Oil” and are interested in winning this political battle, denying the GOP a significant victory. While it is common knowledge that oil companies contribute to Republican campaigns, that doesn’t taint the fact that the Keystone XL pipeline would create jobs and strengthen energy independence. It seems the left is interested in perpetuating a culture war at the expense of thousands of unemployed Americans. Last time I checked, cars still run on gasoline. Millions of Americans support a comprehensive, all-of-theabove approach to energy independence, with the ultimate goal being cheap, clean and renewable energy, accessible for all Americans. But the reality of America’s current energy and economic situation is that our nation is not going to simply stop using oil overnight, no matter how badly anyone–– including the President––wants it to. So while the President and his allies hide behind and claim reverence for bureaucratic procedures, there are a few thousand Americans who have been out of work for a long time, and millions more who would benefit from North American energy independence. It’s a shame the president is actively rooting against them.
—Dylan Gallimore Columnist
The views reflected in this column do not necessarily represent the views of The Review.
CLASSIFIED AD RATES $1/ LINE UD AFFILIATED $2/ LINE NON-UD AFFILIATED $2 BOLDING /$5 BOXING $7 BOTH (ONE TIME FEE) ALL ADS WILL ALSO APPEAR ON UDREVIEW.COM PLEASE CALL (302)-831-2771 OR EMAIL UDREVIEWCLASSIFIEDS@ GMAIL.COM IF INTERESTED IN PLACING A CLASSIFIED AD.
Cleveland Ave 4BR 1 BA 4pking space $2300/mo 302-438-9826
Houses for Rent June 2015 Walk to Campus Email: SmithUnion@verizon.net Renov. Aparments 4 Rent on Campus 1-4 people. Avail now and next year 302-249-3877
UNIVERSITY COMMONS TOWNHOUSES FOR RENT! HOUSE FOR THE PRICE OF AN APARTMENT! GREAT LOCATION! GREAT PRICES! GREAT MAINTENANCE! Call for more info 302-368-8864 Email: ejsproperties@comcast.net
Emily Bell Place Brand new townhouses for rent New London Rd 5 and 6 bedrooms Available August 2015, 9 month lease, Washer/dryer, AC, garage parking www.CampusSide.net, kmayhew42@yahoo.com
USE CAUTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADS The Review cannot research the reputability of advertisers or the validity of their claims. Because we care about our readership and we value our honest advertisers, we advise anyone responding to ads in our paper to be wary of those who would prey on the inexperienced and naive. Especially when responding to Help Wanted, Travel, and Research Subjects advertisements, please thoroughly investigate all claims, offers, expectations, risks and costs. Please report any questionable business practices to our advertising department at 8311398. No advertisers or the services or products offered are endorsed or promoted by The Review or the University of Delaware.
MARCH 3, 2015
7
THE REVIEW
EDITORIAL Voices
Reactions to Harker’s departure from the university
Ben Page-Gil, SGA president
Elliot Webster, BSU president
“There has been a lot of transition under Harker since I came to UD [...] Harker has put together a fantastic team that will lead UD well. I am fortunate enough to work with many of them, and cannot speak highly enough of them and their capabilities.”
“What we will most remember is his objectives for his diversity plan. He had some great ideas but now they are left unfinished [...] President Harker knows that, the students of the university know that. Now it’s where the new president can come in, listen to our students in our community, and come up with suggestions.”
Gov. Jack Markell “I thank President Harker for his outstanding service in leading one of our state’s most important institutions and I wish him continued success in his next role.”
We are accepting letters from students, faculty and Neewark community members about the future of the University. Please send them to Elizabeth Catt at ecatt@udel.edu
AAUP responds to Pres. Harker’s op-ed Response to Harker OpEd by University of Delaware Chapter of the AAUP Following the publication of President Harker’s OpEd in the Philadelphia Inquirer, faculty members across campus were justifiably offended by itscharacterization of higher education in general, and, specifically, the faculty, students, and of the University of Delaware. At a time when the University of Delaware is engaged in recruiting students and planninga capital campaign, it is puzzling why President Harker would write “smart students are seeking innovative and less expensive degree paths.” He states that faculty members “decide what to teach and when, depending on their interests and availability” and calls for higher education to “move away from faculty wheeling and dealing of faculty tenure and preferences” in determining curricula and other educational matters. These statements, along with his claim higher education should “deliver learning that suits the customer” is an affront to the mission of university education and to core values of academic life. The Executive Council of the UD/AAUP shares the feelings that have been expressed by faculty members and believes that the OpEd and what it represents should be the subject of concern across campus. The AAUP held a membership meeting on Monday, February 16. On very short notice, more than fifty faculty members attended the meeting at 5:00PM on a cold and snowy afternoon. At that meeting, the Executive Council resolved to write a response to President Harker’s OpEd and share it with the faculty. The following response to President’s Harker’sOpEd is an expression of the sentiments and views expressed at the membership 2 meeting and a brief considered judgment of the current situation of higher education, particularly at the University of Delaware. Our Academic Values Faculty members at the University of Delaware are highly educated, selfmotivated professionals who have a particular calling that should be recognized, valued, and fully acknowledged, especially by the President who represents our institution to the outside world. Faculty members are engaged in preserving and formulating fresh insights into past knowledge, and engaged in new creative expression
and developing innovative knowledge. Crucially, we participate in a profoundly valued and privileged educational relationship with students. Our relationships with students are based on mutual respect, the fact that we as faculty have knowledge and skills that we seek to impart to our students, and in this process, develop their competencies, their personal integrity, and their appreciation of the worlds of scholarship, research, and creative expression. We seek to provide students with the skills and knowledge to make their way in the world in a variety of important ways. Our work is predicated on the belief that students should have the skills and knowledge to succeed in the occupations that they choose, that they should have the sensibilities and knowledge to participate as citizens in a democratic and multicultural world, and that they should have the background to fully realize all their abilities and capacities. Academic freedom and shared governance at the University of Delaware are fundamental to fulfilling these missions. They are at the core of the AAUP and the Collective Bargaining Agreement, the University Faculty Senate, and the Faculty Handbook. The freedom of faculty members, both individually and in our community of teachers and students, to have primary responsibility for the curriculum, for the content of the courses they teach, and for participating fully in shaping the policies and direction of the University are crucial to the vitality of academic life. Theseaspects of education should not be determined by managers distant from the worlds of scholarship and learning. Working with our colleagues in the Administration, we as faculty members have both the right and, indeed, the responsibility to work together to enhance the conditions for developing new knowledge and for improving the quality of education based on academic values. The Crisis of Higher Education In his OpEd, President Harker seems unaware of these academic values and the mission of the faculty. President Harker’s OpEd assumes that higher education at institutions like the University of Delaware are facing a financial crisis of such magnitude that a rapid and drastic change must occur in the way education is provided.
The OpEd takes for granted that the financial condition of higher education can only get worse, that doomsday is fast approaching, and only a farsighted vanguard of elite managers armed with scientific truth can save the day. As faculty members, we know first hand that the anxiety and stress of paying for higher education by students and their families is a harsh reality. Students and their families are burdened with debt that is, often, at best hard to manage and, at worst, a financial condition that prevents them from buying houses, cars, securing their retirement, and participating fully in economic life. Many students, moreover, are being priced out of higher education despite their abilities to benefit from it. Many students are working to keep their debt in check and, as a consequence, either prolong their education, drop out, or shape their occupational goals based on financial need rather than their values and interests. No one in higher education is more concerned about these financial burdens than the faculty members who are in constant contact with students. In addressing these financial issues, we must fully recognize their sources. First, the costs of higher education have been shifting from state governments to students and their families. Decades of tax cutting, especially for corporations and for high-income earners, along with an ethic that stresses the personal rather than the social benefits of higher education have led to deep reductions in government financial support for higher education. These cuts have led to increased tuition at state institutions. Moreover, the federal government has increasingly moved away from grants to loans in providing financial aid. These shifts are an attack on the foundations of the American middle class and the hopes and aspirations of working people. Second, in some states such as Wisconsin and Louisiana, extreme cuts in state funding are a clear ideological and political choice rather than an economic necessity. Some states, including California, Virginia and Minnesota, have reversed this trend and increased funding for higher education, and others have stabilized state funding. This shows the political rather than the economic causes of cost shifting to students and their parents. Fortunately, the University of Delaware has not suffered as much as most
institutions from reductions in state funding. Beyond these issues of government funding, the ways in which institutions, including the University of Delaware, allocate their resources should be considered before crying gloom and doom. As UD/ AAUP commissioned reports have shown for many years, the University of Delaware is in excellent financial condition. What is problematic is budgeting for education. Nationally, as well as at the University of Delaware, expenditures on faculty are not the cause of increased costs to students and their families. In recent years, the percentage of the funds budgeted for instruction has actually gone down relative to other budgetary items. As the February 17, 2015 Review editorial points out “administrative employees at universities has doubled over the past 25 years. This administrative bloat has taken place at the same time that the proportion of full-time faculty to part-time faculty in American universities has decreased. It’s hard to imagine that the increase in administrative staff has not had an impact on the ability of universities to hire faculty. . . .” For-Profit Higher Education President Harker’s OpEd claims that the market is “sorting out” the financial crisis of higher education. Far from this being the case, the market in higher education, and the for-profit sector that President Harker sees as leading the way to a better future, is contributing to current problems. Our national student loan debt stands at well over $1 trillion, much of it owed to private banks in loans that cannot be cleared through bankruptcy. A scandalous portion of that debt is paid to forprofit institutions that shackle students with high interest loans and do not deliver what they promise, all the while wasting precious federal education support funds. According to the Boston Globe’s Megan Woodhouse, “the US Department of Education estimated that 72 percent of the for-profit programs at 7,000 schools produced graduates who earn less than high school dropouts.” The collapse and subsequent federal lawsuit against for-profit Corinthian Colleges is only the tip of the iceberg towards the future that President Harker envisions. He holds up the forprofit Minerva Schools, an
entity that he advises, as one of the for-profit saviors that will right the sinking ship of U.S. higher education “at a radically lower cost.” Yet Minerva’s tuition is 92 percent of the cost of University of Delaware in-state tuition, and has none of the infrastructure expenses that contribute to our high quality education including the Institute for Global Studies, Residence Life, numerous research centers, and, above all, classrooms and laboratories where actual students and actual teachers meet to learn from one another.
A Crisis of Confidence President Harker has minimal contact with members of the faculty, has had no direct communication with the AAUP for years, and, based on his OpEd, may not be aware of what faculty members actually do. Survey after survey has demonstrated that our University suffers from very low morale. President Harker’s OpEd has the potential of turning dismal morale into a true crisis, a crisis of confidence in his leadership. Such a crisis of confidence cannot be repaired by public relations, slogans, or claims of respect and admiration for the faculty that directly contradict his OpEd. Indeed, such gestures can only do more harm. The University of Delaware needs leadership that unites us rather than divides us, that does not seek to create ever greater distinctions among faculty and pigeonhole them into ever tighter boxes, and that is truly grounded in our research and educational missions rather than in abstracted and false measurements that do not capture the contributions faculty members make to knowledge, students, and the community. Contrary to President Harker’s dismissive portrayal of us, faculty at the University of Delaware are always adapting to an evolving academic environment by developing new courses, programs, and methods of instruction using and creating technological and pedagogical approaches. As faculty members at the University of Delaware, we will continue to fulfill our commitments to the preservation and growth of knowledge, and to our students despite distortions such as President Harker’s OpEd that inflame rather than enlighten public opinion of higher education.
WWW.UDREVIEW.COM
8
MARCH 3, 2015
THE REVIEW
The Review’s crowdfunding campaign deadline EXTENDED Donate by March 6th to help us reach our $10,000 goal All donations are tax-deductable Ask your employer to match!
Follow us! www.facebook.com/udreview www.twitter.com/udreview @udreview instagram: @theudreview
WWW.UDREVIEW.COM
COURTESY OF SUDOKUKINGDOM.COM
March 3, 2015 l udreview.com
TEA DAH! We put our pinkies up for Delaware’s newest addition, TeaDo.
PAGE 11
COURTESY OF PETR KRATOCHVIL
MOSAIC
THE STONE BALLOON LIVES! / PAGE 12
The Review
COURTESY OF HILLARY PARKER After an entire year of planning, students assembled the exhibit during the week of Feb. 21 to Feb. 26, using edible and medicinal plants from Florida to simulate those found in the rainforest.
INTO THE WILD Students bring the Amazon to Philadelphia Flower Show
NICOLE SULLIVAN Senior Reporter
W
hen her winter session spent on the gorgeous island of Oahu, Hawaii turned to memory, sophomore Emily Tucci thought she’d left paradise behind. But amid frigid Philadelphia temperatures and within the confines of the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Tucci has joined her peers in creating a lush tropical wonderland that exposes the beauty and biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest. Over the the past year, students like Tucci have come together to plan and design for the 2015 Philadelphia Flower Show, the world’s longestrunning and largest indoor flower show, which attracts more than 265,000 attendees each year. The students have constructed an incredible 760-square-foot exhibit, currently on display through March 8. “I’m curious to see how people respond,” Tucci says. “We hope that they start asking questions and that it sparks an interest when everything is set up and done. It’s what I’m most excited about.” The exhibit is the main project in a cross-disciplinary course called design process
practicum. It is taught by Jules rainforest.” Wooden shipping pallets Bruck, associate professor of Working with a total of hang on chains from the ceiling landscape design, Jon Cox, $18,000 dollars donated from and suspend fishing line-laced assistant professor of art and the Pennsylvania Horticulture sparkling medicine bottles over Tony Middlebrooks, associate Society (PHS), the Hutton Fund the exhibit, an effect Tucci professor in the organizational and the university’s department described as “chandelier-esque.” and community leadership of plant and soil sciences, program. Students in the Design Bruck says the group wanted “It’s just going to be really and ARTiculture Club (DART) to accurately represent and beautiful,” Bruck says. “Lots are also involved. strategically showcase Peruvian of color and foliage so it looks Although the show’s theme horticulture and the fundamental jungle-like and exotic.” is “Celebrate the Movies,” the resources used by locals and To truly understand the group put its own spin on the traditional healers there. importance of the rainforest project, creating a subtheme Last year, group members and to continue their traditional called “Forest to Pharmacy” grew their own flowers, but collaboration with a nonprofit and incorporating edible and this year they ordered a variety organization, the students chose medicinal plants the Amazon throughout the Center for exhibit. Environmental “We’re never E d u c a t i o n too literal, and and Research we try to make (ACEER) under people think the direction of about our exhibit Roger Mustalish. and reflect about S i n c e what it means and A C E E R ’ s what they can do mission is ROGER MUSTALISH, Director of ACEER about it,” junior to promote food science conservation major Weber of the Amazon Stibolt says. by fostering With the awareness, theme in mind, Stibolt says of nearly 30 different plant understanding, action and the group created an abstract species from Florida and had transformation, Mustalish was representation of actors within them shipped to Delaware. The happy to work with the students movies. display incorporates elements of in promoting its cause. “We’re trying to the Amazon, including bananas, “We were hoping to get out revolutionize the way people pineapple-like plants called the message that the Amazon think about buying products,” “vermiliads,” ginger, cacao is more valuable to all of us Stibolt says. “You are the actor and numerous flowers—all globally if we keep it intact and on this earth and your actions containing medicinal or healing if we use it in a sustainable way,” will have an effect on the qualities. Mustalish says. “We’ve found
“...the Amazon is more valuable to all of us globally if we keep it intact and if we use it in a sustainable way.”
that once people understand why the rainforest is important to them, they’ll take action to do something.” Bruck says this year’s group is more diverse than usual. Along with art, leadership and plant and soil science majors, there are mechanical engineering, criminal justice and even animal and food science majors. “I think it really helps because everyone has unique skill sets and talents from their coursework and they bring it to the show,” Bruck says. “The mechanical engineers have done an amazing job this year putting together moving components using motors and micro-chip controls that—believe me—the other students don’t have any idea about.” After hundreds of hours of work and numerous sleepdeprived days, the group received a silver award for the overall show from PHS, a special achievement award from the Garden Club Federation of Pennsylvania and a green ribbon of recognition from the Herb Society of America, all of which Stibolt says he is proud. “I [wasn’t] so concerned about winning, though,” Stibolt says. “I [was] just concerned about putting on an awesome exhibit that the people of the Philadelphia Flower Show [would] appreciate.”
Philadelphia Flower Show by the numbers 265,000 attendees
760
square-foot exhibit
$18,000
cost of UD’s exhibit
6
majors represented in UD’s exhibit
30
number of plant species from Florida in UD exhibit
“WRINKLES ARE BEAUTIFUL.” ALEXA STRAUSMAN / PAGE 10
10
MARCH 3, 2015
THE REVIEW
/COLUMNS simply stylish
College students live an active lifestyle. It’s a good day if there’s a break between back-to-back classes and meetings. We are lucky if we can grab some lunch and catch up with friends or our studies. That leaves little time to change and fit in exercise. This is where “athleisure” comes in to save the struggle of picking the right outfit for full day of running from one activity to the next. “Athleisure” is a term made up by the fashion industry to fit a wide category of clothing that can be worn for a hard workout at the gym and— with no changing involved—can also be appropriate for lunch right after. The university has fashionable dressers walking all over campus, but the students love their casual wear. Yoga pants, sneakers and a pull-over sweatshirt is a very common trend seen walking from class to class on The Green. It is a comfortable outfit, but it’s also easy to transition from class to gym without having to stop back at your apartment or dorm. “Athleisure” apparel gives the wearer the chance to step up their dress game and even their workouts. The concept of “look good, feel good” comes from my days of being a competitive runner. My high school cross country team had matching lime green Asics warm-up jackets that stood out in a crowd. Our coach’s pep talk consisted of him constantly saying “You look good, you feel good.” This also applies to looking good in the gym, yoga class, kickboxing or any other form of exercise. Great workout items are easy to
brain, body, mind
Look Good, Feel Good find when you are looking in the right places. Check out all time favorites like Nike, Adidas and Lululemon. And don’t forget about the other brand names like Athleta, Fabletics, American Giant and Gaiam for the yoga fans. Athleta’s Tux Chaturanga workout tights (with a white stripe down the side for the ultimate slimming effect) look great on the wearer, whether it’s to go to class or the gym. A pair of American Giant relaxed midweight sweatpants are perfect to throw on over your workout shorts for those cold walks to the gym. Dressing to impress at the gym is becoming even more popular as a number of A-list celebrities and highend fashion designers partner with some of their favorite active apparel companies. Back in 2013, Kate Hudson partnered with fashion retailer JustFab and launched her line, Fabletics. Every month, Hudson features her favorites on the website. Who does not want to look and dress like Kate Hudson? That’s enough motivation in itself. American fashion designer Derek Lam and his diffusion collection, Derek Lam 10 Crosby, will launch their “lifestyle collection” with Athleta. This is a first for Athleta. “Athleisure” is the newest trend in active wear and the fashion industry did not hesitate to put its touch on it. Style plays a big role in outfit selection. “Athleisure” clothing has a new level of style, functionality, and comfort so the wearer can look great
and ready to workout at the same time. Who wants to lug an extra gym bag around to class all day anyway? HANNAH WORSH hworsh@udel.edu
The views reflected in this column do not necessarily represent those of The Review.
COURTESY OF ATHLETA
Over winter session, I completed an incredible internship at Penn Vet Working Dog Center in Philadelphia. The center specializes in training working dogs who undergo rigorous daily training and are exposed to all kinds of fun and challenging things. These dogs go on to careers in search and rescue, medical detection and even therapy. I came to the Working Dog Center for the dogs, but stayed for the science. (Okay, maybe also a little bit for the dogs—and the people too!) I was surprised by the amount of science involved in the training. The dogs are first classically conditioned to associate a clicker with a reward. Many people have heard of the study by Ivan Pavlov, who noticed his laboratory dogs would salivate when scientists entered the room to feed them. This was the genesis of classical conditioning theory: drooling becomes a conditioned response to the stimulus (the food). Clicker trainers use this same idea: when the human clicks, a reward is coming! Dogs learn this pattern very quickly, and trainers use this to their advantage when teaching a particular behavior. Once the dog understands the meaning of the clicker, operant conditioning can begin. Operant conditioning is the method of instrumental learning through which animals and humans
How Dogs Learn
learn to associate a particular behavior with a good or a bad outcome. The dogs willingly offer behaviors, trying to get their trainers to click in response and give them a treat. In operant training, dogs are rewarded for behaviors we would like to increase or punished for behaviors we would like to decrease. Since these animals are high in drive, they are likely to perform behaviors which earn them food, toys or attention. To encourage drive, we use a lot of positive reinforcement. This way, the dogs learn what we want them to do, and they’re happy to do it! Dog training is incredibly interesting because there is always a problem to solve. A place like the Working Dog Center is so great because it is a community of people willing to help find a solution. There is always more to learn, both trainer and dog, and there is almost always more than one way to learn it. I am incredibly grateful towards the people and the dogs who have taught me so much over the past few months.
ERIN ELLER hworsh@udel.edu
The views reflected in this column do not necessarily represent those of The Review.
filmaholic
Justin Simien’s satirical brainchild “Dear White People” is unapologetic and original in its examination of race relations during the Obama-era. The film illuminates the microaggressions against members of the black community through the lens of four students struggling to forge their own identity in a society that often seeks to define them. Behind the walls of the prestigious and fictional Ivy League campus of Winchester University, every student - both black and white is gunning for power and prestige. In the age of political correctness, there is an accepted equality- students eat together, take classes together, even sleep together. A delicate ecosystem is in place. But when the university threatens to enact
unfiltered commentary
Dear White People
random housing it threatens to dismantle the Armstrong- Parker house, the crux of black culture on campus. This incurs the wrath of radio DJ and activist Sam White (Tessa Thompson) who uses her radio show “Dear White People” to dispel the façade that racism is dead. Initiated during his years at Chapman University, Simien draws on his own experiences as an educated African American male lost among a throng of white faces. With a film industry that casts white actors at any possible opportunity (See “Avatar the Last Airbender”, or don’t it’s probably the worst movie on Earth) it is rare to see a character of color with any defining traits besides his or her race. Simien takes common
caricatures- the militant/ angry black woman, the tragic mulatto, the oreo, and provides them with nuanced, developed personas. It becomes impossible to pigeonhole these people, providing a more expansive view of black identity. Since there are so few prominent minority voices in the mediathe few writers that are able to break through are often hailed as the key speaker for their people when there are so many perspectives representing the “black” experience. However, as a black/ multiracial individual myself I thought there were many situations that represented a common black experience. While watching the film, I cringed as Lionel’s (Tyler Williams) colleagues excessively ran their hands through his enormous afro and commented with the typical, “Yeah, but you’re only technically black,” or “You know I didn’t mean you” after their generalizing statements about black people. Do not be fooled, this is NOT a “black” movie. Though it is ripe with racial tensions and commentary on modern African American struggles it speaks to a broad audience. It is easy to see yourself in any of these characters despite ethnicity of cultural backgrounds because the underlying theme is identity and acceptance. Some characters want parental approval, others just want to be liked by their peers or internet famous, they are trying to overcome their humble beginnings and reinvent themselves. As a college student who isn’t trying to accomplish at least one of these goals? Whether or not you agree with the film’s message or portrayal of the characters it is still worth the watch and the post- film discussion. Also, there is a special appearance by Issa Rae, the writer and producer of “Misadventures of an Awkward Black Girl” who is reason enough to see this provocative work. AMBER JOHNSON anjohns@udel.edu
COURTESY OF HOMEGROWN PICTURES
The views reflected in this column do not necessarily represent those of The Review.
My grandfather turned 90 last March, but he likes to say: “I’m 45 on this leg,” picking up a leg, “and 45 on the other.” His classic laugh sounds from deep inside his stomach, and I feel inclined to laugh along as he stands, hovering at 6 feet 3 inches. There is something so light about his youth. For his 90th birthday party, my father gave the speech of the century—literally, in my grandfather’s case. With my grandfather being a healthy man and my family being composed of comedic hooligans, it felt right to host a roast to celebrate his long and joyful life. Quotes included: “The other day my dad told me his memory was not what it used to be. He also told me his memory was not what it used to be.” “He just got a new hearing aid and was bragging to everyone how well it worked. His friend asked him what kind it was, and my dad told him it was 12:30.” Yes, the roast might have reared silent, blank stares if it were given at a different party, for a different man, but not at my grandfather’s party. The room filled with tears from uncontrollable laughter. With my grandfather being the heart of our family, celebrating this milestone with him in such a comical way seemed fitting. Joking aside, my father ended the speech by quoting Michael Pritchard: “Remember: ‘You don’t stop laughing because you grow old. You grow old because you stop laughing.’” There is joy in looking back on a life full of overcome hardships, love, tears, great sadness and great happiness.
Growing Old
There is inspiration in the life my grandfather has lived— one full of honesty and openmindedness. We grow old. Much has happened, and much is to come. Looking back, we are able to recount and appreciate the moments in our lives that have brought us to the place where we are today—in this moment with the values we have and the people that we surround ourselves. When we grow up, we tend to forget this life is the only one where we are the writers. We forget that aging is beautiful. Wrinkles are beautiful. Marriage, children, family, friends are beautiful. We fail to hold onto feelings we once felt so strongly because we forget we control time, and time does not control us. My grandfather lives every day with appreciation. He has lived 90 years with a toothy smile, a regurgitation of the same jokes and an unparalleled kindness. Time has not confined him. Time has given him a house that he turned into a home, 11 grandchildren and a 55-year marriage to the girl he met on a tennis court on Aug. 20, 1959. Growing old is nature’s gift to the soul. It gives us time to appreciate all the people and places we have met and seen that have made us who we are. ALEXANDRA STRAUSMAN astraus@udel.edu
The views reflected in this column do not necessarily represent those of The Review.
FACEBOOK The Review
WANT TO READ MORE?
TWITTER @udreview WEBSITE www.udreview.com
MARCH 3, 2015
THE REVIEW
11
COURTESY OF TEADO While playing games, customers can choose from over 50 different drinks that can be served both hot and cold. The menu also has a selection of Asian appetizers and salads.
Tea lovers rejoice. TeaDo marks return of the tea house QUANNY CARR Staff Reporter
Get excited, tea lovers. There’s a new tea house on campus. Located off of Amstel Avenue, TeaDo opened its doors over winter session for those looking to gather in a relaxed contemporary space. Owner and alumnus Yitong Qin says he was excited to bring something different to campus. “I wanted to combine the culture of UD and the traditional Asian culture that comes with tea,” Qin says. TeaDo is a chain with other locations in Boston and Philadelphia mainly serving dishes and drinks with Asian origins. The teahouse serves both regular flavored teas and bubble teas that fuses a multitude of Asian cultures from Chinese to Vietnamese. With T’Licious closing in 2013, there are few places left on campus solely dedicated to tea. Coffee shops on Main Street
please the coffee lovers but don’t quite cater to tea lovers. Sophomore Ali Keith says she was looking forward to TeaDo’s opening for the same reason. “I was excited,” Keith says. “I wasn’t around when T’Licious was here, so this was my first chance to experience a tea house.” The menu has over 50 different drinks that can be served both hot and cold. Qin says the Honey Black Tea is a hit seller amongst the customers. For food, the menu has a selection of Asian appetizers, salads and Onigri– –a rice ball wrapped in seaweed. Japanese snack takoyaki is also a customer favorite. TeaDo employees are given the title “Talents,” adding to the cheery atmosphere of the tea house. In order for the “Talents” to work in the store, each of them had to go through a week’s worth of training that involved learning the whole menu and knowing how to make every
beverage. On each table sit various games for anyone to play and occupy their time. Pandora plays through the speakers overhead, and the TV mounted on the wall shows movies from “World War Z” to television shows like “Clash of the Titans.” “It’s the perfect place to meet up with a friend,” Keith says. TeaDo holds events too. For Valentine’s Day, the store hosted a “Connect with your TeaDo Valentine” where single customers were encouraged to mingle with one another. Free macaroons and a specialty drink were provided for each guest who showed up that night. Patrons also had the chance to get their picture professionally taken with both new and old friends. Qin plans on hosting more of these events to get the community involved and featuring live music, gaming events and movie-watching nights.
WHERE IS IT? 101 Carroll Court
COURTESY OF GOOGLE MAPS
FROM THE GROUND UP Alumna talks architectural vision
FILE PHOTO A student presents in Venture Development Center, one of the creative and collaborative spaces designed by O’Hara.
MARGARET MCNAMARA Staff Reporter
Alumna and local interior designer Katie O’Hara works in a space that has had a life. She works in coIN Loft a Wilmington office with a startup community for entrepreneurs, creatives, developers and freelancers. “Every building tells a story,” local interior designer Katie O’Hara says. When O’Hara first began renovating coIN Loft, there were no walls or plywood floors, and she was working with a small budget. The building had its growing pains and its milestones just like the individuals who have worked there, she says. O’Hara is an undergraduate alumna who studied civil engineering before receiving her master’s degree in fine arts
in interior design from Moore College of Art & Design in Philadelphia. “I really enjoyed engineering, but it just wasn’t creative enough,” O’Hara says. “I was at a cross roads. I was over Philadelphia. I had a love-hate relationship with that city. I wanted quiet. I wanted nature again, and I didn’t know what my next step was.” After graduate school, O’Hara interned with a small interior design company. Two years after she began, the company moved to New York City and O’Hara had the opportunity to start her own business, Katie O’Hara Design. “I think I always knew that I wanted to do interior spaces,” she says. “I didn’t know how I was going to get there, and I certainly didn’t expect to be running my own company in my twenties.”
O’Hara likes to utilize natural elements in her designs. She says humans only evolved to live inside buildings a couple hundred years ago, so O’Hara finds that from an evolutionary standpoint natural materials still resonate with people and have a special effect. She redesigned an old funeral home for the office of ab+c Creative Intelligence, a local advertising company. She says she gravitates toward preserving the history of the building. For ab+c she wanted to use color pallets and a variety of materials without taking away from the original structure. “We wanted to evoke creativity,” says Craig Brown, ab+c’s account supervisor. “Katie wanted people to walk into our building and have some sort of striking presence.” O’Hara designed the classrooms for the Horn Program
in Entrepreneurship. Stefanie Spatola, the Horn Program’s assistant director, says O’Hara’s designs are simple, purposeful and unique. “We wanted the space to feel collaborative and creative,” Spatola says. “We work to inspire and ignite imaginations of students, and Katie’s mission was very much in line with that.” O’Hara says she has her eye on opportunities to rehabilitate
locations in Wilmington. She says she wants to give Wilmington an identity that is cohesive and independent of its crime rate. “There’s culture and community here,” she says. “It’s not being highlighted and it needs to. People need to be able to tell their stories. We’re not doing any of that, and I think that’s a huge missed opportunity.”
“I was over Philadelphia...I wanted nature.” KATIE O’HARA, Alumna
12
MARCH 3, 2015 THE REVIEW
A nod to Stone Balloon, famed Main Street fixture
LISA RYAN Senior Reporter
An iconic name has returned to Main Street. Following a renovation this winter, 16 Mile Taphouse is now the Stone Balloon Ale House—an homage to a bar and concert venue that opened in late February of 1972. Bill Stevenson opened the original Stone Balloon on Main Street when he was in his early twenties. His goal was to create a place in Newark where people could go to hear great live music—which, at the time, was only available at the oft-crowded Deer Park Tavern. The Stone Balloon’s demographic, Stevenson says, varied by night. Monday nights were for performances by local bands, so the crowd was also comprised of locals. Friday and Saturdays saw college students and professionals alike. But Stevenson says the Balloon was best
known for its Tuesday night events. Tuesday nights were “concert nights” which Stevenson says drew crowds from Baltimore and Philadelphia, as well as from southern New Jersey and—on occasion— D.C. By Stevenson’s estimation these events typically brought in about 1,200 people, sometimes shutting down Main Street. He says he always made sure to have a musician or DJ on the bar’s stage, which he says was “the heart of the Balloon.” The concerts are among Stevenson’s favorite memories of the Stone Balloon. In 1974, he convinced Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band to perform. “Life changed,” he says. “That was an amazing night, because I just knew for some strange reason. We had done a couple concerts; we’d done a couple different shows. We’d had some great bands in there, but Bruce changed everything.”
As Springsteen’s music received more attention, Stevenson says the Balloon benefitted from the publicity as well, which led to calls from various booking agencies for other nationally touring bands. This allowed the Balloon to host artists like Pat Benatar and Robert Palmer, among others. Today, Main Street does not have a venue that could accommodate a band stopping by on its national tour—and Stevenson says he does not believe such a place will be possible again in the area. Not only are expenses high for venue owners and concert-goers these days, but the convenience of the Internet has also affected the way people seek out live music, he says. Stevenson says the rise of MTV in the early ’80s had a lasting impact on business. When bands became famous for their music videos, they no longer needed a live venue.
“It’s so expensive to be out there traveling and touring,” Stevenson says. “You need a bigger venue. And that’s why [...] some of these places that did live entertainment, they’re just not around anymore.” Still, the Balloon’s legacy lives on, in part through stories shared by university alumni on Mugnight. com, a website created by Darren “Digger” Kane (’95). Alumni can post on the site and reminisce about their time at the Stone Balloon and at the university in general. Kane visited the Balloon as a student, and recalls seeing local acts like Love Seed Mama Jump. He says that the Stone Balloon’s closing in 2005 marks the shift between the old and the new on Main Street. Current manager Phil DiFebo, who has been at the restaurant since August, says that the Stone Balloon’s new reputation will rest on its menu
of comfort foods and various beers, “and hopefully great company.” “Those days, the glory days of the Stone Balloon, are behind us,” DiFebo says. “The idea of the Stone Balloon that we’ve created here [...] is to be a place of nostalgia, a place of memory, but also a place [where] people can form new ideas of what the Stone Balloon should be.” Both Kane and Stevenson agree that the era in which the original Stone Balloon was able to thrive is over. However, neither says so bitterly. “A lot of people are embracing the new Stone Balloon Ale House, but there [are] some people who aren’t so happy with it,” Stevenson says. “[...] I just wish that all those people would embrace the new place and support it. I just love the idea that the Stone Balloon name is back on Main Street.”
COURTESY OF AMY KW/MUGNIGHT.COM EMILY MOORE/THE REVIEW The original Stone Balloon (left) circa 1991 on Main Street. The building, which was demolished in 2006, hosted many iconic musicians including Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band. Current manager Phil DiFebo says he hopes the new bar (right) will live up to its glorious past.
Q&A: “The B-Side” Professor Ben Yagoda’s latest book, released in January, explores the twists and turns of the Great American Songbook over the course of the last century. He is scheduled to present a talk on the book Sept. 15 at 4:30 p.m. in Morris Library’s Reading Room.
JENNIFER FINN Managing Mosaic Editor
RANDI HOMOLA/THE REVIEW Students in the class, “Takeout Makeover,” focus on creating healthier adaptations of popular takeout foods.
“Takeout Makover:” Cooking for a healthy lifestyle LEAH RODRIGUEZ Senior Reporter
Students break off into groups, delineating tasks for efficiency. Bob Marley blares. The room is strewn with brightly colored bowls of vegetables and spices. Smells of pico de gallo, guacamole, shrimp tacos and chicken quesadillas begin to fill the room. Despite strict schedules and long lists of course requirements, students have found fun, eye-opening and unexpectedly interesting options in their allotted electives, like a section of BHAN-130 titled “Takeout Makeover.” This one-credit course teaches students how to utilize healthy ingredients and portion sizes to recreate the kinds of foods consumed in a fast-food environment. On Thursday evening, the students “made over” standard Mexican dishes. Over the course of the semester, they’ll work to remake foods typically loaded with calories and fat—including stir-fries and comfort foods like macaroni and cheese, pizza and burgers. “This course allows students to regulate their portion sizes and the amount of each ingredient
they put in the food,” professor Kristin Wiens says. When ordering from restaurants––especially those of the fast-food variety––students forfeit control over what goes into their food, often consuming much more than their bodies need, Wiens says. “Takeout Makeover” had been requested during her time teaching another course, “Cook It Healthy,” she says. “Eating out is expensive and unhealthy,” senior Kaleigh Shea says. “It’s good to know that I’ll have one healthy meal today.” Before students can begin cooking each week, a group must present different aspects of food preparation, ranging from content and ingredients to cooking techniques and nutritional guidelines. “I enjoy cooking, and I needed a one-credit course to fit my schedule, so this made sense,” senior Amanda Smith says. “It’s a good experience.” The students in “Takeout Makeover” range in their cooking skills, but all are willing to learn for the sake of a healthier lifestyle. “Everyone eats, but people don’t know about food,” Wiens says.
In his new book, “The B-Side: The Death of Tin Pan Alley and the Rebirth of the Great American Song,” Ben Yagoda, professor of English and journalism, addresses the evolution of popular music in the United States. He focuses on the phenomenon of the Great American Songbook, the contents of which arose during an era (roughly 1920–1950) when famously gifted composers like George Gershwin and Cole Porter catapulted a barrage of beloved new songs (known now as “standards”) into American hearts and homes. An unabashed admirer of the Great American Songbook, I sat down with Professor Yagoda to discuss his researching, writing and listening process. A condensed, lightly edited transcript follows. You write that “The B-Side” has some elements of a “nonfiction mystery.” Did your investigative research lead you to any unexpected locations or interview subjects? There was that mystery aspect, but I also tried to have a lot of stories in the book— people stories and stories of careers. The one that comes to mind is Carolyn Leigh, the lyricist I write a lot about in the later chapter. She’s no longer
living, but I was just tooling around in the New York Public Library—I love spending time in libraries—and it turned out, the Billy Rose Theatre Division had her papers, so I requested files to look at. And it turned out she was a pack rat—saved everything, every little letter she got. She would make carbon copies of her letters, so I could see what she wrote, as well as the responses. Does extensive listening for the purpose of writing and researching ever diminish the artistic quality of the music? Or does it enhance it? I would say it enhances it. One of my favorite quotes from Samuel Johnson is, “The prospect of being hanged in the morning concentrates the mind wonderfully”—and that’s part of why I like doing what I do in general. I really felt it enhanced my enjoyment to have to think about it in different ways. You write that Paul Dresser “was known to burst into tears at the sound of a touching song, especially one of his own compositions.” It reminded me of something I read once about the lyricist Dorothy Fields: After Jerome Kern composed “The Way You Look Tonight,” she said, “The first time Jerry played that melody for me I went
COURTESY OF MARIA YAGODA
out and started to cry. The release absolutely killed me. I couldn’t stop, it was so beautiful.” Is there a standard that always brings you to tears or stops you in your tracks? Oh, that’s so interesting. Well, just thinking about “The Way You Look Tonight,” I got a little misty-eyed. There isn’t one song, but definitely one of the things about music— not unique to me—is that it’s emotional. And “The Way You Look Tonight,” in that song, there’s nothing sentimental certainly in the words, and the music is very beautiful. So that is what gets me going, is when— and it’s hard to put your finger on why or when it happens— but when something’s just kind of so right and so perfect.
In one of your interviews (unrelated to “The B-Side”), you say that your interest in writing stems significantly from your “inability to understand the inner lives of other people,” which you say pushes you “to an intense awareness of and interest in [...] the way people express themselves, notably in language.” What, if anything, did the process of writing and researching this book teach you about the inner lives of others? You know, I never really thought about it, but I think it’s probably a similar thing. In writing a book about music— especially popular music—I try to glean little insights here and there by seeing the way people react and respond to music. I talked about the change after the war and in jazz, this idea of there being a change in people’s tastes. That’s interesting to me because it makes me think, ‘What is it about people that would prompt such a change?’ And I guess, as with that quote, I don’t come to any conclusions— but again, it “concentrates the mind wonderfully.” It sort of puts me in a place to observe these things and maybe be a little bit more knowledgeable and insightful.
MARCH 3, 2015
THE REVIEW
13
COURTESY OF UDRESS Students model clothes deemed flattering for their own body type as part of the “UD Stripped” campaign. Founded by senior Melinda Nanovsky, it strives to help young people embrace their bodies, no matter the type.
Embracing positive body image: Senior talks “UD Stripped” campaign KAYLA BAPTISTE Staff Reporter
It is no secret that body image is a problem among college girls and guys. Senior Melinda Nanovsky says she noticed the issue and decided something had to be done. She wanted girls to be happy in their own bodies without worrying about judgement from society, or sometimes worse, their peers. The “UD Stripped” campaign, headed by Nanovsky, strives to help young women embrace their bodies and not W focus on the ideals placed in their heads by society. Starting at the age of eight, Nanovsky began modeling. Her mom was also a model, so it came natural to her, she says. As she began her journey as a model, Nanovsky faced a lot of setbacks due to her body type. Nanovsky stated in an
email message that she ran into many obstacles with modeling agencies that wouldn’t sign her because they had not worked with anyone of her particular body type before, which frustrated her. Nanovsky became inspired not only by her setbacks but by other models who are trying to change the way society views beauty. In the email message, Nanovsky stated that she was satisfied with the outcome of her campaign. She hopes her campaign grows on an international level so that girls and guys around the world would know that society does not define who they are. Nanovsky makes sure to include men in her campaign because it is not only women who are affected. Many of the university’s own students helped out with the campaign by giving their
opinions about body image as well as modeling in different clothing that best fits each person’s body type. Sophomore Rachel Coyne, a model for Nanovsky’s campaign, says she was
“You have the power to change your body.” MADISON FERTELL, Class of 2014 nervous about modeling in the campaign because she’d never modeled before. Coyne was the first person to get in front of the camera and pose in an effort to highlight her body image. She didn’t know
what to do or how to even pose, but she says she was surprised by how well her pictures came out. Her photoshoot boosted her confidence and made Coyne embrace herself rather than conform to society’s beliefs, she says. “The pressures put on most college girls to look a certain way comes not only from the images that girls sees in magazines and/or billboards but from the people around them,” Coyne says. Coyne says people ignore and dismiss body image to make it seem as if it is not a big issue, not even noticing how young girls are affected by eating disorders on college campuses. Instead of making body image a priority, Coyne says young women should focus on other issues that deal with their physical health, such as
exercise and eating right. Madison Fertell, a recent graduate from the university and past fashion columnist for The Review, also shared her thoughts on the idea of body image. Fertell didn’t participate directly in the campaign, but she gave Nanovsky her own input on the issue causing problems today with most young women. “College is a time for people to find themselves,” Fertell says, “In high school, everyone is so body conscious.” Fertell says the campaign can help young women on campus become more accepting of their flaws and embrace their bodies so that they shape their physical appearance to the way that they want to view themselves and not how others view them. “You have the power to change your body,” she says.
REEL CRITICISM
‘THE SPONGEBOB MOVIE: SPONGE OUT OF WATER’
COURTESY OF NICKELODEON MOVIES
SAM RICHTER Film Columnist
3.5 OUT OF
5
Social order has broken down and the Hobbesian calamity of a war of all against all has been set in motion. The cause: the theft of the single most valuable recipe in known existence—the Krabby Patty secret formula. What follows is one of the zaniest, most surreal and funniest cartoon movies of the year. Fans of the long-running television show, which is now in its 15th year, will surely be delighted. Notably, the film is in the same classic 2-D style as the show that taught kids and adults alike about Leif Ericson day, Sunday Sundaes and the lovable inhabitants of Bikini Bottom. All those feeling dissuaded by the live-action 3D trailer should thus
reconsider. When Plankton tries to steal the secret “formuler”—as Mr. Krabs calls it—for the umpteenth time, it looks as if our singlecelled antagonist might finally be successful. To the residents of Bikini Bottom, it looks as if that is precisely what happened. After Plankton’s attempted heist, the formula is gone and unsurprisingly no one has memorized it. Spongebob intentionally does not know the formula as the result of a rule in his labor contract that disallows him from committing any part of the recipe to memory. Without the formula, the citizens quickly rally to indict Plankton for his crimes. Except Spongebob, who saves Plankton from almost certain cartoon death by helping the alleged culprit (via a bubble) escape the angry mob that has formed. Watching a city sink into anarchy has rarely been more fun. “The Spongebob Movie” manages to strike a good balance between humor and sentimentality that is seldom done so effectively. Even more impressive is how the writers manage to develop a script containing so many overthe-top references and jokes that appeal to both kids and adults. Although “The Spongebob Movie” offers a great deal of fun, it is not a perfect movie. The film moves along at a breakneck pace, managing to “consider” philosophical issues such as time travel, free will, friendship and teamwork (known as t.m. work to Plankton). However, while it does not reach the same highs as great cartoon films like “The Lego Movie,” “The Spongebob Movie” is certainly worth watching both for its own sake and for the sake of nostalgia. If nautical nonsense be something you wish, then you are sure to enjoy this film.
The views reflected in this column do not necessarily represent those of The Review.
March 3, 2015 l udreview.com JUNIOR ATTACKER MCKENZIE RAFFERTY SCORED FOUR GOALS AGAINST RUTGERS ON SATURDAY.
SPORTS The Review
ANDREW KUCZMARSKI/THE REVIEW
President Harker’s rocky relationship with UD Athletics / PAGE 15
BLUE HENS CRUISE PAST RUTGERS 12-7 ERIN BOLAND Senior Sports Reporter
W
ith a solid team effort on Saturday afternoon, Delaware’s women’s lacrosse team defeated the Rutgers University Scarlet Knights 12-7 at the Delaware Stadium. Seven different goal scorers contributed to the Blue Hens’ victory and head coach Kateri Linville was pleased with their strong offense. “We have a lot of different types of players, which I think makes our offense effective,” Linville said. “We’re really not relying on one person to convert. It’s going to be hard to stop us if we have more than one option, and that’s what we want as a team.” The first 10 minutes of the game started with a few turnovers and some missed opportunities, but senior and captain Caitlin McCartney scored the first goal off a free position shot and put the Blue Hens on the board. Sophomore attacker Jamie Schwartz and junior midfielder Kara Dattellas followed suit and each collected a goal from the 8-meter arc. Delaware tallied two
more in the first half. One was an unassisted goal from junior attacker Shannon Hawley and the next from teammate Casey Lyons off a pass from McCartney. The Scarlet Knights were able to get themselves on the scoreboard with six minutes remaining in the first half. Junior Kim Kolodny scored an unassisted goal to make the score 5-1 at halftime. Delaware’s defense played strong and defender Erin Wein said they worked as a unit. “I think we work well and we always have each other’s backs,” Wein said. Wein picked up two ground balls, a draw control and caused a turnover in the victory. Senior goalkeeper Alex Zaugra also had an impressive performance during Saturday’s game. She collected three ground balls and recorded eight saves on the afternoon. Coach Linville was pleased with Zaugra’s patience in the goal. “Rutgers got some momentum and Alex made some big saves to keep us in the game when they had a few 8-meter looks,” she said. “I thought her composure on the clears was a positive for us. When the team was a little frantic, she took control of the game.” This was especially important in the second half because Rutgers came out ready to make a comeback.
They scored two goals in the first five minutes and narrowed the lead to 5-3. The Blue Hens then retaliated by scoring two more of their own. With 20:26 on the clock, McCartney, who is one of Delaware’s top scorers, was ejected from the game after receiving her second yellow card. Linville said that although McCartney is one of their key players, the team adjusted well without having her in the game. “Caitlin has a lot of confidence and she went hard and generated some good offense for us, but with her out, the next person steps up, and I think that’s the pattern for us,” Linville said. The second half consisted of the Scarlet Knights and the Blue Hens swapping goals. Kim Kolodny tallied three goals and an assist for Rutgers, while teammate Amanda Turturro contributed an assist as well, along with two goals. Junior attacker McKenzie Rafferty dominated in Saturday’s game and found the back of the cage four times in a row, helping her team secure the win. “I think building momentum was key,” Rafferty said. “Scoring goals back to back is an exciting part of the game. The energy definitely increased throughout the entire game and we would just get hyped
ANDREW KUCZMARSKI/THE REVIEW
Junior Casey Lyons embraces her teammate after contributing two goals to the win, bringing her season total to a team high of 17. every time we scored.” This worked in favor of the Blue Hens as they won 12-7 and boosted their record to 4-1. They will travel
to Monmouth University on Wednesday, March 4 in hopes of continuing their success.
ANDREW KUCZMARSKI/THE REVIEW
Rookies in spotlight as softball success continues MATT BUTLER Managing News Editor
ANDREW KUCZMARSKI/THE REVIEW
Senior outfielder Jessica Gristler gets ready to catch a fly ball. Gristler said she was impressed by the younger players’ performances in the season’s first tournament.
With an influx of young talent surrounding an alreadyestablished senior power structure, spirits around the university’s softball team are high these days. After five games in Charleston, S.C. in its first tournament of the season, the team’s record stood at 4-1, including wins over Toledo, Charleston Southern and Howard twice. Despite the one defeat, a 6-2 loss to Charleston Southern in the second half of a doubleheader, they had outscored their opponents 41-19 at the end of the tournament. The team had a slight downturn in fortunes last weekend, winning one out of five games on a tour of Louisiana, Mississippi and Arkansas, then the Blue Hens played the Seahawk Classic this weekend in Wilmington, N.C., winning four out of five and going for a 9-6 overall record The Blue Hens’ stellar performance in the opening contests was fueled by that mix of veteran skill and young upstart talent the team possesses. Grisler was named CAA Softball Player of the Week, while sophomore Carolyn Szymanski shared CAA Co-Pitcher of the Week. The hot start also continued to brighten the shine of head coach Jaime
Wohlbach, now entering her fifth season at the helm of the Hens. She took over in 2010 for B.J. Ferguson, a staple of the program who had been head coach for 30 years. Though Wohlbach struggled at first, including a disastrous 15-41-1 campaign in 2012, she has steadied the ship and reinvigorated the program during the last few years. Since that season, the Hens are 63-52 under her leadership. Grisler said the team expected to open the season well, but she was surprised how adeptly the young players handled their first true game action of the year. The ability of the freshmen to learn on the fly and build chemistry will be crucial to the team’s overall success this year, Grisler said, as the team will be carrying seven freshmen along with a new transfer player. “We lost two seniors last year, and they were a huge part of our leadership,” Grisler said. “We have a lot of raw talent right now, we just need to get all of the freshmen on board mentally.” Grisler, now third alltime in school history in hits and runs scored, went 1220 over the first five games, good for a .600 batting average with a home run and four RBIs. Szymanski, though she also wreaked her share of havoc with the bat, did most of her damage on the mound
to the tune of a .88 ERA over 16 innings. That included a tone-setting two-hit shutout of Toledo in the season opener. Heather Oakley, another team captain and first baseman/catcher, said the season’s start has been encouraging beyond just notches in the win column. Oakley said the team is meshing together better than could be expected with so many new members. “Everyone who steps on the field has been gelling together, communicationwise and support-wise, just playing good, clean softball together,” she said. “And every single player, from our number one player to our last person on the bench, contributed. We’re just doing our jobs as we are needed to.” Those are the building blocks to a championship formula, Oakley said. Oakley’s outlook on this season is brighter than it was last year, she said. Though last season’s squad seemed perpetually on the verge of “clicking” together, this team already has, and can only grow from there she said. “Softball is a game where anyone, any team can have a breakout year,” Oakley said. “Knowing stories like that, knowing that is how the game is is fire enough for me.”
WWW.UDREVIEW.COM
MARCH 3, 2015
THE REVIEW
15
ROAD TO RECOVERY:
COURTESY OF KEITH ALLISON/FLICKR
How do the Phillies and Sixers compare?
COURTESY OF L-REY/PICASA
SIXERS 30th in total payroll (30/30 - lowest)
PHILLIES 9th in total payroll (9/30)
TOTAL PAYROLL....................................$56,043,346 LARGEST CONTRACT.......................JaVale McGee
TOTAL PAYROLL.................................$131,366,666 LARGEST CONTRACT.......................Ryan Howard
GM...........................................................Sam Hinkie 1ST IN ANALYTICS IN ESPN AVERAGE AGE...................................................23.9
GM.................................................Ruben Amaro, Jr. COST PER WAR.............................highest in league 122ND IN ANALYTICS IN ESPN AVERAGE AGE...................................................27.4
$11,000,000 per year (4 year, $44,000,000)
$25,000,000 per year (5 year, $125,000,000)
(2nd youngest in the league)
PLAYERS >30..........................................................1 PLAYERS <25........................................................11 TOTAL REVENUE.................................................27th
(19th youngest in the league)
PLAYERS >30........................................................12 PLAYERS <25..........................................................7 TOTAL REVENUE...................................................5th
$125 million
ODDS TO WIN NBA CHAMPIONSHIP..............500/1
$315 million
ODDS TO WIN WORLD SERIES......................100/1
(last in the league)
(last in the league)
sports commentary The Mighty Phall: Phillies and Sixers take divergent paths toward rebuilding December 16.
That’s the day Philadelphia sports hit rock bottom. That’s the day the Eagles, Philly’s last great hope, crashed and burned out of playoff contention. That’s the day I resigned myself to the fact that I would have to wait until the next NFL season to see a competitive Philadelphia team because the Phillies and Sixers aren’t built to win, or even compete, for the foreseeable future. The current state of Philly sports is so bad that Maroon 5’s “Misery” could (and probably should) serve as the soundtrack of the season. While both the Phillies and the Sixers are in the process of major overhauls, they’ve taken very different paths toward rebuilding. At 13-45, tied for the
second worst record in the NBA, the Sixers are not a good team. There’s no question about that. We knew that going into the season though. We knew that the lows would outnumber the highs, that the losses would pile up, that there would a learning curve for our young stars. To quote 76ers general manager Sam Hinkie(CONF), that’s “the price you have to pay to get to where you want to go.” Like ripping off a BandAid, Hinkie tore the roster he inherited to shreds in no time at all. The Sixers’ rapid plummet from mediocre team to one of the worst in the league was built on Hinkie’s strong belief in the “break you down to build you back up” philosophy. After moving proven starters, he collected first round picks like baseball cards, many of whom haven’t yet played with the team. Still, the man
has a plan. Then there are the Phillies. Unlike the Sixers, their demise has been slow, painful and not nearly as well thought out. Credit Phillies General Manager Ruben Amaro Jr. for that. The aging stars and meager talent that he will parade onto the field this April could be the worst team in Phillies history. Still, the Phils seem reluctant to part ways with the old guard despite losing 89 games last season. The same players that dominated the Natinal League East from 2007-2010 will not win you games in 2015 and yet the majority of the team’s money is wrapped up in those older, fading stars. Roughly $108 million of the team’s $131 million payroll is invested in six players (Ryan Howard, Cliff Lee, Chase Utley, Carlos Ruiz, Cole Hamels and Jonathan Papelbon) whose average age
is 34.7. Compare that to the Sixers, whose average age is 23.9 and who only have one player over the age of 30 on the entire roster. They also have the lowest payroll in the NBA and only one player (recently acquired JaVale McGee) makes more than $10 million a year. Financially at least, the Sixers appear to have the upper hand. The biggest indicator of future success may be ESPN’s recently posted analytic rankings, which graded all 122 teams across the four major sports leagues in America on the strength and progressiveness of their statistical departments. Both teams’ results made headlines: the Sixers for ranking first overall, and the Phillies for coming in dead last. If the future of sport is analytics, as many believe, then jump on the Team Sam bandwagon now. Or at least steer clear of Team Ruben. While both teams started the season with the longest odds to win a championship in their respective leagues, it’s Amaro’s Phillies that cause the most concern. With Sam Hinkie, there’s a strategy.
We may not understand it (seriously, trading away the reigning Rookie of the Year for yet another first round pick?) but at least we know it’s there. Ruben doesn’t inspire that same confidence. In fact, the more he opens his mouth the more you wonder why he’s allowed to run a professional sports team. To quote Jimmy Carter, Philly fans “believe that the next five years will be worse than the past five years,” and we’re probably right. So as the Phillies and Sixers prepare themselves for the long, painful road back to relevancy, I’ll prepare myself for another losing season, Adam Levine’s words echoing in the back of my mind. “I am in misery. There ain’t nobody who can comfort me.” Except for maybe the 2015 Eagles?
MEGHAN O’DONNELL Managing Sports Editor The views reflected in this column do not necessarily represent those of The Review.
sports commentary Harker and Sports: A terrible match
If you haven’t read the front page of The Review yet, university Patrick T. Harker has announced he will be stepping down effective July 1 in order to lead the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia. As a sports fan here at Delaware, I cannot be happier about this news. Harker, in my opinion, has been the downfall of the university’s football program. He has taken the fun out of Saturdays and the fans have voted with their feet. By taking away the ability for fans to drink responsibly as they tailgate, and by making parking more difficult and expensive for them, no one shows up to the games. A long time ago, when I was very young, my alum father and his college buddies would go see games at Delaware Stadium.
We’d tailgate where the UDairy Creamery was, we’d enjoy ourselves and then go see the game with other cheering fans. The last time I walked through a tailgate at a game, it was sad. Yes, people were enjoying themselves, but it just didn’t have the same feel as what I remember about it. In addition, his idea to move into Division 1-A football is misguided to say the least. Yes, the University of Connecticut had one good season when it moved up, but where have the Huskies been since? As former head coach and Delaware football legend Tubby Raymond once said, “Delaware is a big fish in a small pond,” and if the Blue Hens moved up from Division 1-AA to Division 1-A football, we would be fighting for survival. We all have seen the score from the Pittsburgh game, 62-0 in favor of the Panthers. Now
imagine that kind of score for 12 straight weeks. Do you think we’ll get top recruits after that? Do you really want to see games like this? I think not. But it isn’t just the varsity and club athletics programs that Harker has put his hands on and impacted, it is also the intramural athletics programs he has affected, as well as a sporting life in general here on campus. By taking away the Kent tennis courts along with the basketball courts and hockey rink at the end of the 2012-13 school year, there are now just three tennis courts for general student use on the campus proper. Whatever happened to a “well-rounded education,” where students could excel in the classroom and on the playing fields? Harker obviously never took that into account when he planned his new
SARA PFEFER/THE REVIEW
University President Patrick T. Harker talks on the sideline of this season’s game against Towson. freshman dorms and dining hall. I once stood up in a faculty senate meeting and questioned where he was going to put the new tennis courts he said he’d be building. Two years later, I still don’t have an answer. So if you are wondering what kind of president the college needs now, think about one who values athletics as
much as he values revenue from the student body. That’s what I’d like to see.
JACK COBOURN Managing Sports Editor
The views reflected in this column do not necessarily represent those of The Review.
LIKE WHAT YOU READ? FACEBOOK The Review
TWITTER @udreview
WEBSITE udreview.com
WWW.UDREVIEW.COM