MARIST CIRCLE 1 • PRINT EDITION OUT BI-WEEKLY ON TUESDAYS POUGHKEEPSIE, TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021 MARISTCIRCLE.COM | VOL 75 ISSUE 6/7 INSIDE: Marist Music Women students express grievences Who Lead

OPINION | PAGE 8 FEATURES | PAGE 16 “We Just Want to Say Thank You” Amy Rendon’s Family Speaks Out Following Campus Support

BY SARAH LYNCH As of the afternoon of March 31, an The day after this announcement, more dimes” and “Protect the Pack Editor-in-Chief email from Vice President for Student Cat O’Brien ‘21 texted fellow senior doesn’t stop the attack.” Signs at the Affairs Deborah DiCaprio announced Sam Williams: “Wanna plan a protest?” protest called for support for a Title IX A petition that launched on March that the student accused of assault was The seniors, moved by Rendon’s sto- Student Advisory Board and funding for 30 quickly garnered thousands of sig- no longer a student at the college. On ry, quickly organized a demonstration Title IX. Others included statistics –– for natures calling for the removal of Bryan April 28, Rendon is scheduled to attend against sexual assault and domestic instance, that 97% of women ages 18 to Vargas, a Marist College football player a court hearing to request a permanent abuse. Under the name “Marist Stand 24 in the UK have experienced sexual who a fellow student alleged assaulted restraining order against Vargas. Up Speak Out,” they took to Instagram harassment in a public space. her off-campus. “Personally, I’d like to say I am be- to create a movement, unaffiliated with Members of the Marist Football team That student has now revealed her- yond proud of the stance Marist stu- Marist or any campus club or organiza- attended the protest and addressed the self as Amy Rendon, a Marist freshman dents and alumni are taking on this,” tion. Right away, they contacted clubs crowd. “I just want to speak on behalf from New Jersey. Katherine Posada, Rendon’s cousin, told like Marist It’s on Us, Purple Thread, of the football team…we don’t stand Rendon’s family released a statement the Circle. “I am not an alumni and nev- Marist Women’s Rugby and the Marist for this,” Teddy Wright ‘21 said. “We to the Circle: “We just want to say thank er even thought of going to the school, College Dance Ensemble to further the can never be in your shoes, but we just you for the continued support on cam- but being from North Jersey, I never movement’s reach. want to tell you guys that we stand with pus towards Amy. We are beyond proud heard anything but good things about On Wednesday, April 7 at 12 p.m., y’all and we’ll be here every step of the of her for being strong enough to allow Marist. To hear so many stories from between 75 and 100 student protestors her story to be shared. We stand with girls in less than two weeks is beyond arrived at the Marist green. O’Brien and “There’s not enough men out here,” all the victims of dating violence and heartbreaking and I’ll do whatever I can Williams passed a megaphone around Hartley Walker Money ‘21 said our hope is that every girl can feel safe to help Amy and every girl on campus to participants who read their signs and CONTINUES ON PAGE 3 at the demonstration on April 7. on Marist’s campus.” feel secure.” engaged in chants like “Title IX needs Photo by Julia Feigus ‘21

COVID-19 One Year After the Shutdown DASHBOARD Marist Community Reflects on the Year Since a Global As of Monday, April 12th Pandemic Upended Life at the College and Beyond

13,143 Total Tests Conducted

598 Total Cases

6 Employees 592 Students

78 Total Active Cases

Illustration by Sydney Kysar 60 At Home/Off Campus BY SARAH LYNCH 18 On-Campus Isolation Space so bad for me,” Flanigan said. “But little days later, in-person programming knew she wouldn’t be coming back. On & LAURYN STARKE did they know that it was gonna affect is suspended for the rest of the se- her last day on campus, she had just every single one of us.” mester. dropped off her photography assign- –– January 31, 2020: Marist commu- One year after the campus’ initial Within weeks, all study abroad pro- ment at the Steel Plant building –– her 2.03% nity receives first coronavirus up- shutdown on March 16, 2020, the Cir- grams were suspended, the Marist last in-person assignment as a Marist Marist 7-Day Positivity Rate date from Health Services cle spoke to students, faculty and staff campus extended its spring break and student –– and drove back to O’Shea The night before she got the email, to reflect on the past year, undeniably ultimately shut down its campus for the Hall. She found her roommate standing Kristin Flanigan ‘21 was dancing and marked by a global pandemic. remainder of the spring semester. in front of the building. 4.19% singing with her friends at the Michael For many, the moment when the vi- Class of 2020 graduate Madison Vet- “We just made eye contact, and we Collins pub in Florence, Italy. The grimy rus’s significance came into view for torino had a part-time internship in just both started hysterically crying,” Dutchess County 7-Day pub floor was packed with sweaty col- the first time remains ever-clear in Manhattan during her final semester. she said, “We just knew.” Positivity Rate lege students studying abroad –– a their memory. For Executive Vice Pres- “There was a sense of doom in the city Seniors graduated from living rooms, scene that, looking back one year later, ident Geoffrey Brackett, that moment that I had never felt before in my life while underclassmen faced vast uncer- feels utterly unrecognizable. The next happened at 8:30 a.m. at an operation and I hope none of us ever have to feel tainty about the future of their educa- morning, her European adventure end- meeting with the cabinet officers, just it again,” Vettorino said. She felt a palpa- tion at Marist. ed with an email entitled “Update: Flor- before the Florence program’s suspen- ble and deeply unsettling juxtaposition: If you feel symptoms of ence Program Suspension.” Her eyes sion. Soon after, he and the college’s ad- birds were chirping, heralding the start –– May 25, 2020: George Floyd is COVID-19 or think you immediately welled up with tears. She ministration would be working seven of spring, but she couldn’t shake the killed, and nine days later Marist ad- went from feeling on top of the world have come into contact days a week for a year to battle the pan- feeling that something terrible was on dresses the unrest, kickstarting con- to booking her flight home in a matter demic’s influence on higher education. the way. versations about Marist’s diversity with someone who of hours. “I think it’s fair to say that none of us The early signs had already started and inclusion. has COVID-19 contact could have forecast that 12 months on, to trickle in –– Marist students were Health Services, –– February 29, 2020: Marist sus- we would still be actively engaged in in quarantine after coming home from pends all operations at the Florence battling this,” Brackett said. abroad, and she had just cancelled her campus –– March 11, 2020: Marist extends spring break trip to Florida. By the (845) 575-3270 “Coming home, so many people felt spring break by another week. Five time spring break rolled around, she CONTINUES ON PAGE 3 2 • INSPIRING STUDENT VOICES EST. 1941 POUGHKEEPSIE, TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021 MARISTCIRCLE.COM MARIST CIRCLE NEWS 500 Vaccines for Students: Marist Partners with Westchester Medical Center and Dutchess County

BY DANIELLE SICA line survey before registering for their students as possible to improve campus City/National Editor first dose, and if they already received life and potentially lift restrictions. a vaccine, students need to upload their The date on which restrictions are Marist has partnered with Dutchess vaccination information to Medicat. lifted is dependent on student vaccina- County and Westchester Medical Cen- Students received an individual email tions, campus positivity rate and New ter, offering 500 Moderna vaccines to on April 8 at noon from Marist with York State guidelines. students on Apr. 13 from 8 a.m. to 6 instructions to schedule their appoint- The college has been working with p.m. at 51 Fulton Street with 1000 more ment. the County and WMCHealth since the planned to arrive the next week. In the email sent on Apr. 10 to stu- pandemic began; in March, Marist . Appointments are available on a dents, President Dennis J. Murray made facilities available to New York first-come-first-serve basis; students foreshadowed the school’s potential State residents serving as a pop-up who receive their first dose will need measures if most of the campus is im- vaccination site, and they immunized to schedule a second dose 28 days af- munized. The email provided off-cam- 3,500 people. The partnership comes ter their first appointment. The college pus recommendations and on-campus with expanding access to the vaccine and partners hope to expand the use of resources, aiming to vaccinate as many for a newly eligible New York residents the facility as more doses become avail- able. Administrators sent out an email to Marist students this weekend, urging them to get vaccinated as soon as pos- Restrictions that could be lifted: sible to get campus life back to normal. • Post-exposure quarantine for vaccinated individuals may not be required The former art building located on 51 Fulton Street served as a pop-up cam- “This program is a pilot we hope to • In-person dining pus vaccination site. Credit: Greta Stuckey ‘23 use to accelerate the distribution of vac- • Reopening of the team weight room in McCann cines for college students. We are very population over 16. “Vaccination is critical in stopping pleased to work with Marist College on • Reopening of the fitness center in McCann • In-person gatherings of clubs and organizations (outdoors) The local collaboration offering im- the spread of this virus, and we are so this effort, as well as with the other col- munizations to the college community pleased to be able to offer this on-cam- leges in the county. We are grateful to all • Expanded activities and social opportunities is a step closer to restoring campus life pus opportunity to our students,” the various partners who have stepped • Athletic team practices and contests (athletes will be receiving further during the pandemic. The week before, Marist Executive Vice President Geoff up to help in our mission of getting the school provided vaccine appoint- Brackett said. a shot into the arm of every person communication from the Athletics Department) • Choral and band activities ments to 100 student-employees who If students would like to register for who wants to be vaccinated,” Dutchess met the NYS criteria of being essential off-campus vaccination sites, they can County Executive Marc Molinaro said. • A better graduation ceremony & greater flexibility with senior week activities in-person Marist College employees. find information here: https://covid- Students are required to take an on- One Year After the Shutdown CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

BY SARAH LYNCH semester. In June, Marist announced pening, like we didn’t have Dance En- said. Mask mandates, social distancing, launch of its vaccine program for stu- & LAURYN STARKE that students would be returning to semble in its usual format. It did give and surveillance testing were generally dents. the Poughkeepsie campus that fall. This me more time to focus on my school- considered successful policies in lim- A completed yet imperfect fall se- kickstarted a college-wide recalibra- work,” Natalie Ford ‘21 said. “But it was iting the spread of the virus, as well as mester preceded what continues to be With a global pandemic in full force, a tion, with no department or campus also not good, because I wasn’t able to implementing pauses as soon as pos- a tumultuous spring for the campus. tumultuous summer was already prom- operation left untouched. see some of the people I would usual- itive cases began to rise. But students And yet, reasons to hope have emerged. ised –– then, on May 25, a man named “How do you plan for something no ly run into on my day-to-day or weekly also identified shortcomings: “Marist Kyra Gynegrowski ‘22 received both George Floyd died at the hands of po- one has seen before?” Kim Marsden, activities and life. There’s some people I could not properly support interna- doses of the vaccine over winter break, lice, screaming “I can’t breathe.” His resident director of the Upper West have been meaning to get together with tional students and other groups of stu- allowing her to volunteer at Marist’s killing spurred protests in all 50 states townhouses, said. As the fall semes- or talk to, and I just have not been able dents on campus,” Tsundu said. pop-up vaccine site. “There was so and around the globe. The Stop the Vi- ter loomed, the Housing department to see them.” “I think the fall semester was a suc- much gratitude,” Gynegrowski said. olence movement organized a march scrambled to rapidly adapt and imple- Professors felt a similar learning cess considering we did not get shut “People were so excited...It’s crazy how in Poughkeepsie’s streets. Meanwhile, ment new policies, from measuring curve: “I thrive off the energy of being down, and we did not have that many a year ago we were getting sent home a groundswell of Marist community every living area on campus to deter- around students,” said Scott Wolcott, cases in general, especially in compar- and now I’m watching people get the members condemned the college’s ad- mine COVID-safe occupancy to allowing a philosophy professor at Marist. As a ison to now,” Ford said. vaccine.” On April 13, Marist will host ministration’s lack of response. Insta- freshmen to pick their roommates for high-risk individual, Wolcott has bare- its first vaccine program for students in gram accounts emerged like @redfox- the first time. ly been in the classroom since March — March 1, 2021: The on-campus conjunction with Dutchess County and es_againstracism, garnering over 2000 Each department faced monumen- of 2020 and feels more detached than spring semester begins. Just over two Westchester Medical Center and vacci- followers. tal changes in just a few short months. ever from his students. He explained weeks later, Marist reaches 100 cas- nate 500 students. One thousand more Nine days after Floyd’s death, Presi- Marist’s comprehensive reopening that it’s difficult to stay motivated for es and enters a campus-wide pause. doses are planned to arrive for the fol- dent Dennis J. Murray released a memo- plan, released on July 16, demonstrated class when the payoff is so different Spring semester brought various lowing week. randum condemning Floyd’s killing and just how different campus life would now: “I miss those ‘aha’ moments when changes in college policies after the fall If cases decrease and vaccinations promising more action, later announc- be, with a phased move-in, mandated students finally get it.” revealed what worked and what did become more widespread, President ing the establishment of a Board-level masks, grab-and-go dining and restrict- not. Policy changes included ending Dennis J. Murray told students that committee to address issues of racism, ed access to residence halls. #Protect- — November 24, 2020: On-campus Saturday classes, allowing freshmen more activities and normal aspects of diversity and inclusion at Marist. In thePack emerged as the college’s slogan semester ended with 175 positive to visit between dorms, working on a campus life could be on the horizon, January of 2021, the committee out- for this initiative to bring students back, cases throughout the fall. mandatory diversity course, and in- like expanded fitness and club activ- lined more specific goals for short- and safely. The on-campus fall semester con- creasing surveillance testing so the en- ities, choral and band activities and long-term change, including addressing cluded, as scheduled, on Nov. 24, but tire campus population is tested every graduation festivities. A weekend for the status quo and listening to constit- — August 24, 2020: The first day of not without bumps in the road. An two weeks. the Class of 2021 commencement has uencies. in-person classes during a pandemic off-campus gathering sent Marist into After arriving on campus, students been set –– a promising update after a Olivia Knox penned an opinion sto- commences its first precautionary “pause” in Octo- awaited the dashboard’s update, which turbulent year. ry for the Circle in June, calling out the UNC Chapel Hill canceled in-person ber. Then, another 10-day pause just be- ultimately revealed 28 positive COVID For some, like Vettorino, the wounds administration’s initial silence after classes just one week into the fall se- fore the semester’s end prompted many cases on March 12 –– the approximate of 2020 have slowly started to heal, and Floyd’s killing and nationwide protests. mester. Others rolled back plans for re- students to leave campus early. “I felt amount of cases that occurred during hope has emerged despite it all. Coming up on a year since Floyd’s kill- opening just weeks before their intend- like people had started giving up on be- the fall’s first outbreak. But it wasn’t “I was actually just down in the city ing, Knox said Marist still has blindfolds ed start dates. But on August 17, Marist ing safe and caring about those around until March 17 at 100 cases that Marist pretty recently, and I went back to Chel- on. She pointed out the the President’s students began to move into their them,” Rebecca Butcher ‘23 said. “I paused activities, while still allowing sea Market, which was where I had memorandum for Black History Month homes for the academic year. The fall knew it was going to happen.” classes and fitness centers to operate. been interning when my internship got came on Feb. 17, toward the end of the semester kicked off not with the boom International students spoke out Student backlash emerged, as cas- cut short. And for so many months, I year’s shortest month. “Little actions of fireworks at the Block Party but after their price to stay on campus es continued to climb and propelled was expecting there to be such a grief like that, it doesn’t really seem like the muffled “hellos” through masks. Move- through winter break had increased Marist into the Orange Alert Level for or pain with being back there, knowing impact of my article is taking a posi- ments from the summer carried over and the college revised terms for stay- weeks. that there was supposed to be so much tive turn on Marist,” Knox said. “I think into the fall in full force –– first, with ing on campus. “I felt so betrayed,” said Another crisis came forth when news more to unfold...But all I felt was a sense there’s power in the student body, defi- a march organized by members of the Sabrina Adhikari ‘21, an international of a Marist student’s assault broke and of peace, and also gratitude to have ever nitely, to make some changes.” Black Student Union and the Black Stu- student from Nepal. Marist eventu- a subsequent petition reached over had that opportunity,” Vettorino said. dent-Athlete Alliance, and second, with ally retracted its $40 per day charge, 23,850 signatures. Students gathered Recently, her grandmother, after re- — June 18, 2020: Marist announces a a Students Revolt protest in September. Adhikari said, and about a dozen inter- on the green to condemn the assault ceiving both of her COVID vaccines, was plan to reopen campus in the fall Students, accustomed to schedules national students spent the break living and call for administrative action and able to hold her great grandmother’s In June, colleges began to release full of classes, mandatory meetings, together in Midrise wondering when increased funding for Title IX. hand for the first time in a year. plans for the fall semester. Schools like club events and athletic practices, ad- the spring semester would begin. “When they’re forced to, human Rutgers moved most operations on- justed to an out-of-the-ordinary sched- The fall exhibited both strengths and — April 6, 2020: Gov. Cuomo ex- beings can overcome an incredible line, while Ivy Leagues like Princeton ule. weaknesses in the colleges approach, pands vaccine eligibility to include amount.” and Harvard announced plans to bring “I really was sad that a lot of the ac- students said. “Marist was successful at New Yorkers over the age of 16, and half the students back to campus each tivities I was used to just weren’t hap- adapting to changes,” Tenzin Tsundu ‘22 two days later, Marist announces the 3 • INSPIRING STUDENT VOICES EST. 1941 POUGHKEEPSIE, TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021 MARISTCIRCLE.COM MARIST CIRCLE NEWS Promising “We Just Want to Say Thank You” Update for 2021 23 rape cases and 12 fondling cases taking place I had countless ideas of what I wanted CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE at on-campus student housing. One rape took Commencement to do here on campus the frst semester, place on public property in 2017. Six occurrenc- and it didn’t go through,” BY SARAH LYNCH es of dating violence occured on campus proper- Klanell Lee ’23, the Title Editor-in-Chief ty and five occurred in on-campus student hous- Ceremonies IX student representative, ing in 2019, alone. said. “It sucks to be here way, and we don’t stand for that type of behav- “I think that a lot of the adults and people in today, but I can tell you ior.” Wright’s teammate Arthur Pinckney ‘22 told power at Marist don’t understand the severity BY GRACE MAEDA that I’m here with you, the women in the crowd that while he does not of the danger and the risk that women face on Managing Editor standing with you and know what it’s like to be in their shoes, “I do un- campus, and they think it’s not something that’s fghting for you derstand what it is to be in a struggle, and ya’ll always in the back of our minds,” O’Brien said. all. are in a struggle and I’m here to fight with you. Beyond Marist, abuse on college campuses re- Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced on Mar. 29 I’m going to try to get a lot more people out here, mains an ever-prevalent issue. According to the that all New Yorkers 30 years old and up could a lot more men out here.” National Domestic Violence Hotline, a majority receive the COVID-19 vaccine starting the fol- According to the 2019 Annual Security & Fire of college students (57%) who said they have lowing day. Those 16 and up could get vaccinat- Safety Report published December 2020, 25 cas- experienced dating violence and abuse said it ed the following week. This increase in eligibility es of rape and 14 cases of fondling occured on happened during college. More than half of col- adds to the list of those who can book a vaccine campus property between 2017 and 2019, with lege women (52%) said that they know “a friend appointment, along with healthcare workers, who’s experienced violent and abusive dating frontline workers, teachers and those with cer- behaviors including physical, sexual, digital, ver- tain underlying conditions. bal, or other controlling abuse.” “New York is moving forward with reopening Grace Leavitt ‘22 leads Marist’s chapter of It’s our economy and looking forward to a post- On Us, the nation’s “largest nonprofit program COVID world; we know the vaccine is the weap- dedicated to college sexual assault prevention on that defeats this invisible enemy, and we are and survivor support.” The chapter joins other getting more shots in arms than ever before,” campus organizations in advocating for a Title IX Cuomo said in his statewide update last week. Student Advisory Board, and Leavitt personally As of Mar. 29, approximately 5.9 million peo- said that she wants to see better training for stu- ple, or 29.6% of the state population, received dents and faculty. their first dose of the vaccine, and 3.4 million “I think that freshman year, we have to watch people, or 16.8% of the state population, com- a few videos and everyone kind of laughs over pleted their vaccination series. them and doesn’t pay attention, and that’s pretty New Yorkers can receive one of three federal- evident when there’s so many cases of sexual as- ly approved vaccines; Pfizer, Moderna, or John- sault on our campus as well as campuses every- son & Johnson. Pfizer and Moderna both require where,” Leavitt said. “This is a national problem, two shots to reach immunity, while Johnson & but our school is so small that I think it’s some- Johnson only needs one shot. thing that we should be able to combat better “The safety of these vaccines has been studied than we are.” extensively. They’ve been tested now in about The Marist Moderates created a petition, ac- 75,000 patients in total, and the incidence of cruing over 880 signatures in support of a Title the adverse effects is very, very low,” said Doctor Event co-organizer Cat O’Brien ’21 led the attendees in a chant: “Title IX needs more dimes.” IX Student Advisory Board. The Circle spoke Andrew Badley of Mayo Clinic’s COVID-19 Re- with Christina Daniele, the Interim Title IX Coor- search Task Force. dinator at Marist, about the proposal. New York State has set up many mass vacci- “The federal and state laws dictate how the nation sites across the entire state. Residents process needs to be. If the intent of an adviso- can also get their shot at a local pharmacy -- like ry board is to potentially develop process, that’s CVS, Walgreens, or Rite Aid -- if available. not really something that is afforded to us under President Joe Biden directed states to make the current law, and the way that they’re writ- sure all adults are eligible before May 1, 2021. ten,” Daniele said. She added that students have Neighboring Connecticut announced that res- been involved in the office before in research, idents ages 16 and up would be able to get a programming, and building training. vaccine starting Apr. 1. Other contiguous states Marist Stand Up Speak Out will hold another of New York plan on increasing their vaccine demonstration on the Marist green on Wednes- eligibility on Apr. 5. In New Jersey and Massa- day, April 14. Students Revolt –– another group chusetts, those 55 and older will be allowed, and on campus that had previously hosted a march in Vermont, those 40 and up will be able to sign for Breonna Taylor in September –– announced up for their first vaccine. Right now in Pennsyl- its plans for a demonstration on the Marist green vania, those 65 and older, without another pre- on Thursday, April 15, at 6 p.m. qualification, can get the vaccine. Dutchess County currently runs two Point of From left to right: Alexa Mazza ’22, Amy Dugan ’22 and Kevin Sayegh ’22 attended the demonstration Dispensing (POD) Vaccination Centers. One cen- as members of the Marist Moderates. Sayegh, president of the club, said that the board decided Marist ter is located at the former JCPenney store in the needed “an institutional type of change” and began advocating for a Title IX Student Advisory Board. Poughkeepsie Galleria, and the other at a former CVS on Route 22 in Dover. To reserve a vaccina- tion at these appointment-only centers, people must fill out the form provided by the state. For the week of Mar. 29, the state allocated 100 “I’m here today to doses to Benzer Pharmacy in Armenia and Pine Plains Pharmacy in Pine Planes, as well as 200 doses to McCarthy’s Pharmacy in Stanfordville. Additional amounts may have been sent out to stand for the other other pharmacies by the federal government, and other hospitals and health care centers across the county. On Mar. 17, Cuomo announced the opening girls who can’t come of 10 new state-run mass vaccination sites, in- cluding two in the Hudson Valley: SUNY Orange, Diana Physical Education Center, and Ulster out, who are scared Fairgrounds. “New York needs to be ready for the next in- crease in supply, and these sites located through- out the state will help bring residents and their to come out, and families peace of mind and get us a step closer to defeating the COVID-19 pandemic and restoring Enna Spivak ’21 carried a sign encouraging students to scan and sign a petition a sense of normalcy,” Cuomo said. in hopes of establishing a Title IX Student Advisory Board. Marist College served as a pop-up vaccine also for the school to location from Mar. 5-10, administering the then newly approved Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Marist was one of three colleges in New York to understand that this is support the state’s immunization efforts, SUNY Genesee in Batavia, Genesee County, and James- town Community College in Olean, Cattaraugus County. an issue and they need “Marist has a long history of successful part- nerships with the State and County govern- ments and related organizations in supporting to take it into account.” initiatives to better our Hudson River Valley community. We are especially pleased to be able to do so in the COVID-19 pandemic.” Executive Vice President Geoffrey Brackett said. - Judi Musanje ’23 There are government resources available online to learn more about eligibility for a COVID-19 Vaccine, along with locations across New York State. To look for appointments out- side of state-run areas, people can visit https:// All Photos by Julia Feigus ‘21 Haley Capalbo ’23 and Judi Musanje ’23 came together to the vaccinefinder.org. Marist green for the demonstration. 4 • INSPIRING STUDENT VOICES EST. 1941 POUGHKEEPSIE, TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021 MARISTCIRCLE.COM MARIST CIRCLE NEWS Federal Rescue Efforts Made to Help Student Debt Crisis During the Pandemic

BY DANIELLE SICA Federal student aid provided insti- Latest Updates to the HEERF II Act to their bill balance. If students did not in the coming months. The research City/National Editor tutions and students with relief pack- • On Mar. 19, 2021, the US Department enroll to receive the financing electron- indicates borrowers are still struggling ages, adjusted the federal financial aid of Education announced new assis- ically but were still eligible, the budget even when given federal assistance. The The coronavirus pandemic undercut requirements and set low-interest rates tance to institutions allowing them was given to them automatically. upcoming graduating class, the second the nation’s economy and has worsened on federal student loans. Typically, stu- to use funds for the pandemic dura- Marist Student Financial Services class to enter the workforce during a the student debt crisis. In 2019, the to- dents accrue interest while in school; tion. outlines the criteria of the 3,400 stu- pandemic, is expected to exacerbate the tal amount of national student loan however, from March 2020 to Decem- • On Feb. 25, 2021, the US Department dents who will receive funding if they upsloping debt curve; they are entering debt was over $1.5 trillion, and that ber 2020, interest rates on Direct Un- of Education updated the HEERF aid have not already: an unstable labor force battling with number is only growing more signifi- subsidized loans were lowered to 0%. program’s eligibility criteria and the • Enrolled in Undergraduate or Gradu- lower wages and increasing unemploy- cantly in times of crisis. Despite certain The Cares Higher Education Emer- Supplemental aid (SAIHE) program. ate degree program for Spring 2021 ment claims. relief efforts to help mitigate student gency Relief Fund provided over $14 • On Jan. 14, 2021, the US Department • Submitted FAFSA by Feb. 24, 2021 Federal rescue efforts for students financial pressures during the pandem- billion in funding to higher education. of Education added $21.2 billion to • Proof of US Citizenship has been sub- can help individuals offset the cost of ic, individuals are not satisfied and are Within the past few months, lawmakers higher education institutions to sup- mitted to Student Financial Services damages because of COVID-19 related waiting for the Biden Administration to have instilled the HEERF II act, allowing plement formal learning during the • $75,000 or less EFC established on financial fallout. Still, many researchers intervene more extensively. institutions to offer financial aid pack- pandemic. the 2020-2021 FASFA worry that the burden of the student “Even before the coronavirus pan- ages to those who COVID-19 directly loan debt during crisis time will be of demic, many Americans were strug- impacted. The second provision au- At Marist, Student Financial Services In a study conducted by the Pew Re- more significant harm to financial se- gling to pay their student loans, and thorized by the CRRSAA Act allocated has been working with students direct- search Center, around 90% of federal curity to the nation than in previous the public health crisis has made a bad $81.88 billion to support education, in ly since they received the first round of student loan borrowers have taken the years. The Biden Administration out- situation much worse for borrowers,” addition to over 30 billion previous- Cares Act funding last spring. In early option to pause their monthly payments lined their approach to the student debt Don Baylor Jr., a senior associate at the ly allocated to education funding last March, eligible students were notified during the pandemic. A majority of crisis in Biden’s campaign, and borrow- Casey Foundation, said in Making the spring. through email to set up a direct deposit those borrowers said they would be un- ers are waiting for executive action for Case. payment or choose to add the funding able to repay their student loans again further student loan assistance.

Marist Implements Wastewater COVID-19 Testing

BY GRETA STUCKEY easy way to sample large numbers Campus News Editor of people,” Slater said. “We have it at four locations here at campus, it’s at Lower and Upper Fulton and Lower Three weeks ago, Marist imple- and Upper West Cedar. That is be- mented a wastewater COVID-19 cause the family units over there testing system on the East side are fairly large and it’s also because of campus as a surveillance tool their sewage outflows are condu- for identifying positive cases. The cive to telling us something about a school has set up wastewater sam- single building.” plers for the Fulton and West Cedar The freshman dorms across cam- townhouses that samples regularly pus are not conducive to wastewa- over a period of 24-hours which ter sampling because Champagnat, can then be used to detect positive Midrise and Marian’s sewage sys- COVID-19 cases. tems all flow through the Student “When people are infected with Center which means a particular Pause extended past April 11, in-person classes on April 12. Source: Greta Stuckey ‘23 COVID-19 and even for months dorm can’t be singled out for posi- after, they actually shed viral RNA tive cases. It was easiest for the col- for some time which is actually the lege to implement the wastewater same molecule that is used in test- testing system on the East side of ing to see whether someone is pos- campus because of its proximity to Pause Extends Over 25 Days itive or not,” Dean of the School of the water treatment plant. Science Dr. Alicia Slater said. “Right now, it’s complicated for Wastewater testing has been us because we are having a surge used for a long time by municipal- BY GRETA STUCKEY cautious about our planned resump- The college is encouraging stu- on campus,” Slater said. “People ities to monitor disease outbreaks. who are prior positives also shed Campus News Editor tion of activities and continue to dents to get vaccinated and wants make decisions based on data,” Di- students who have received their Marist was able to connect with a the virus so we have people who The college has extended the cam- Caprio said. “If the number of positive COVID-19 vaccine to upload their group at Clarkson University about were isolated with COVID-19 and pus-wide pause through April 11. cases moves in the wrong direction proof of vaccination to marist.medi- a partnership for wastewater sys- now we have seen the viral load go The voluntary precautionary pause over the next few days or once we re- catconnect.com. The college is having tem testing. The group at Clarkson up. We can’t tell whether the rise in began on March 17 and has now been sume activities, we may impose addi- students report their vaccine infor- University, led by Dr. Shane Rogers, cases is because of those prior pos- extended five times, making it the tional restrictions. On the other hand, mation so they can have an accurate is working with several institutions itives moving back into the dorm or longest pause of the year. Sunday will if we continue to drive down our count of fully vaccinated students. to sample their wastewater. whether it is new active cases.” mark 25 consecutive days. The col- rates and students get vaccinated, “We are pleased to announce that “What you do is you set up a sam- The wastewater system testing lege is planning to resume in-person we will be able to release additional we will be supplementing the gen- pler that can collect a compost sam- is a complementary tool used in classes on Monday, April 12. restrictions.” eral resources noted above by pro- ple,” Slater said. “This means that it conjunction with surveillance test- “We are writing to inform you that Students who stayed on campus viding additional vaccines starting samples many times over a 24-hour ing and surge testing on campus. Marist is planning to resume on-cam- during the extended pause and have next week, through our partnership period because we are trying to see There is almost a week between pus courses effective Monday, April complied with COVID-19 surveillance with Westchester Medical Center and what is going on in a residence hall the time Marist sends the sample 12,” Vice President for Student Affairs testing are allowed to attend in-per- Dutchess County,” DiCaprio said. “It is area. We collect those samples on to Clarkson and the time that the Deborah DiCaprio said. “Students who son classes starting Monday, April 12 important to note that we will have a Tuesday and Thursday through au- results come back to the college. have remained on campus and par- as long as the college sees the num- limited supply, so we encourage you to-samplers that are set up on the Big increases in the sample show ticipated in mandatory surveillance ber of cases decrease over the next to pursue options or other methods. manhole covers so every 15 min- the college that there are new cas- testing can begin to attend in-person four days. Any students who have not More information about this addi- utes, the sample gets pulled up into es because people who are actively classes immediately. Students who complied with surveillance testing tional vaccination program will be the composite sample.” infected with COVID-19 shed more have left campus during the pause will be sent an email on April 9 with released shortly.” There is a group of students in virus than those who were previ- must have a negative COVID test be- information on testing slots. The email sent by DiCaprio did not the school of science who are be- ously infected. fore attending classes in person.” “Students who did not participate specifically mention if other in-per- ing supervised by Dr. Zion Klos and “In non-surge times, it would be The college is currently at an or- in surveillance testing from March son activities like athletics and dining Dr. Raymond Kepner handling the a great early indicator of when we ange alert level for COVID-19 cases, 29-April 8 will be assigned a date to would resume on Monday with class- samples. Once the sample is run might have a single case and that is indicating cases are rapidly increas- return to campus and must complete es. The College also didn’t specify the for 24-hours, the students pull the how we had hoped to use it,” Slater ing and transmission is less con- mandatory arrival testing,” DiCaprio policies to be followed during the sample in a bucket and put a new said. “We are doing more regular trolled. Last updated on April 7, the said. “These students will be required continued pause. Instead, the college bucket in. After students take the surveillance now and we are also COVID-19 dashboard shows a total to practice a self-imposed quaran- focused on getting students back in bucket back to the lab, they put it doing surge testing if needed. Many of 560 COVID-19 cases and 149 total tine (take classes online, eat in their the classroom on Monday and en- into bottles and then ship those places have been working with active cases. The college has adminis- room, limit interactions with others) couraging them to get vaccinated. bottles off to Clarkson University Clarkson for longer than we have, tered 11,099 tests and will continue until test results are received by the “Thank you again for your contin- who runs the analysis for Marist. so we are still trying to find our surveillance testing and targeted test- College. Students should return to ued commitment to keeping our com- “Wastewater sampling has been footing for what the wastewater ing during the pause. campus on the day of their arrival munity safe,” DiCaprio said. used for a long time because it’s an testing will look like.” “Moving forward, we will be very testing and not before.” 5 • INSPIRING STUDENT VOICES EST. 1941 POUGHKEEPSIE, TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021 MARISTCIRCLE.COM MARIST CIRCLE NEWS JOE BIDEN: CLOSING IN ON 100 DAYS Biden Administration Promises Transparency Amid Media Blackout at the Border

BY EMILY STELLAKIS Amid bipartisan criticism for re- border despite the Biden campaign’s Biden’s vows to increase transparency have been maintained by a bipartisan Staff Writer stricting media access to the migrant emphasis on pursuing a transparent in response to this continued media delegation of lawmakers that recently The Biden administration has re- facilities, Biden emphasized that he and open relationship with the press. criticism. However, the White House visited processing centers in El Paso, cently come under fire from media out- would commit to transparency on this Numerous media outlets have con- could not provide a timeline for when Texas. Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT), lets for its lack of transparency since issue during the news conference and demned this action and are calling on journalists would gain access to the fa- who participated in this trip to the taking office, specifically about the on- would soon allow journalists to en- the Biden White House to open the cilities. “We want to provide access into southern border, mentioned the impor- going crisis at the US-Mexico border. ter the detention centers. Upon being doors to news organizations at the bor- the Border Patrol facilities,” Psaki said. tance of media access in an interview After facing mounting criticism from questioned by NBC’s Kristen Welker der. “We are mindful that we are in the mid- with NPR News; he said, “it’s something journalists on both sides of the aisle for about whether he would commit to Fox News’ Chris Wallace voiced ob- dle of the pandemic; we want to keep that we should all press the administra- delays in holding a formal presidential permitting journalistic access into the jections to White House press secre- the kids safe, we want to keep the staff tion to do better on. We want to make press conference and restricting media overcrowded youth facilities, Biden re- tary Jen Psaki during Fox News Sunday safe.” sure that the press has access to hold access to border facilities, the Biden sponded, “I will commit when my plan, over the administration’s opacity on the Media outlets are also reporting an the administration accountable.” administration is promising a renewed very shortly, is underway to let you have border crisis. “At this point, in allowing “unofficial gag order” from the Biden Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) also voiced commitment to transparency. access to not just them, but to other fa- access to border patrol facilities for re- administration limiting what Border his concerns after visiting the border Biden held the first news conference cilities as well.” When pressed on how porters, you are less transparent than Patrol agents can share with the press. with 18 colleagues in a recent letter to of his presidency 65 days after his inau- soon journalists would be granted ac- the Trump administration,” Wallace An NBC News report from March 17 the Biden administration. “We under- guration — having waited longer than cess, Biden said he didn’t know. said. describes the media blackout, detail- stand the heartbreaking tragedy un- any president in 100 years to face the The first reporters from the Asso- Pamela Brown of CNN called out ing how “multiple news organizations, folding at the border because we were White House press corps. During his ciated Press and a camera crew from this lack of transparency in an on-air including NBC News, have requested there. We saw it,” Cruz wrote in a letter first news conference on March 25, CBS were allowed to enter the crowded segment, citing how the Biden adminis- access to or photos from inside over- obtained by Fox News. “But the Ameri- Biden was met with a slew of questions border tents housing children in Donna, tration has failed to live up to its com- crowded border processing facilities can people are unable to see it because regarding the recent influx of migrants Texas on March 30, a step towards the mitment to renewed media relations. holding unaccompanied migrant chil- you remain intent on keeping the media at the border, his plan to address the Biden administration’s transparency Highlighting the blocking of media cov- dren; they were denied.” The report from shining a light on your administra- overcrowding of children in holding following weeks of media scrutiny. Ear- erage during this unprecedented surge also mentions how even at the height of tion’s failures.” centers and the administration’s lack of ly reports from journalists at the facility in unaccompanied minors crossing the the Trump administration’s child sepa- As the Biden administration has just transparency around facilities shelter- highlight the overcrowding of children border, Brown told viewers that this is ration policy, journalists were permit- recently permitted the first band of re- ing unaccompanied minors. The block- amid the border surge. The Texas fa- “the latest part of a pattern of the Biden ted to tour these facilities for unaccom- porters to enter the facilities, journal- ing of media access to these housing cility with a pandemic capacity of 250 administration restricting access to the panied minors. ists remain committed to covering the facilities has sparked one of the first currently holds over 4,100 children and border. Journalists haven’t been inside Politicians from both parties have ongoing crisis and providing an inside clashes between news organizations families. facilities holding these unaccompanied also called on Biden to allow addition- look into the conditions at facilities and the Biden administration since they Journalists have noted a pattern of children.” al press access to these facilities. These holding unaccompanied minors despite took office. restricted media access to the southern In a recent briefing, Psaki echoed demands for increased transparency remaining barriers for media. President Biden’s First Months in Offce: A Recap

BY EMILY STELLAKIS people who built this country, a fighting including Trump’s infamous Muslim Staff Writer chance.” travel ban and the construction of the A recent Marist Poll places Biden’s border wall. Biden introduced a sweep- On Jan. 20th, Joe Biden delivered his job approval rating at 52%, with 65% of ing immigration bill that would provide inaugural address on the steps of the Americans approving of his handling of a path to citizenship for immigrants U.S. Capitol and assumed leadership of the pandemic. living in the U.S., strengthen and mod- a nation facing numerous challenges. The Biden administration met its ernize border security, and provide With an ambitious 100-day plan, the first vaccine milestone ahead of their aid to Central America. After the DACA new administration has already made 100-day goal, administering 100 mil- program –– a program that protects headway on a number of key pledges lion vaccines in 59 days. In a national immigrant youth who came to the US during its first few months in the White address, Biden directed states to make as children from deportation –– faced House. all adults eligible to receive a vaccine scrutiny and repeated limitations under Since taking office in late January, by May 1, offering a new sense of opti- the Trump administration, Biden put addressing the COVID-19 crisis and its mism as the nation recognized the one- forth a memorandum preserving and economic consequences has been at year anniversary of the pandemic. The fortifying the program. the top of Biden’s agenda. On its first administration is now working towards The administration is currently full day in office, the Biden adminis- a new goal of 200 million shots by the struggling to contain the recent surge tration released a thorough 200-page 100th day in office. in unaccompanied migrant children coronavirus response plan, outlining its Within his first months in the White coming into the U.S. and has been under strategy for mitigating the spread of the House, Biden has started tackling the fire over a lack of transparency on the virus, reopening schools and launching climate crisis by fulfilling campaign border situation. With border crossings a comprehensive vaccine distribution promises related to environmental pol- on pace to reach the highest levels in campaign. icy. Biden signed an executive order re- 20 years, many House Republicans feel In a slew of executive orders, Biden committing the U.S. to the Paris Climate that Biden’s rollback of immigration instituted a mask mandate on all fed- Accord on day one in office, one of many policies is to blame for the surge. “The eral property and public transporta- of former President Trump’s actions re- cartels know when to exploit this south- tion, enacted the Defense Production versed by the Biden White House. With an ambitious 100-day plan, the new administration has already made ern border, and they’re doing it now Act in response to COVID-related sup- On Mar. 31, Biden unveiled his $2 tril- headway on a number of key pledges during its frst few months in the White masterfully,” said Rep. John Katko, rank- ply shortages, and expanded care and lion American Jobs Plan, a key proposal House. “Joe Biden” by Gage Skidmore is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 ing member of the Homeland Security treatments for coronavirus, along with from his campaign that aims to rebuild Committee. “They’re doing it because numerous other measures. Biden’s $1.9 the nation’s infrastructure. The infra- President Biden rolled back a lot of the the bill. pipeline, said Biden’s order “would di- trillion American Rescue Plan –– a coro- structure package would allocate funds orders of the previous administration Biden also rescinded a key permit rectly lead to the layoff of thousands of navirus relief package that funds vacci- to repairing and rebuilding highways that were working.” for the Keystone XL pipeline via exec- union workers.” nations, provides direct economic relief and bridges, expanding high-speed In response to the sudden spike in utive order on his inauguration day, an The Biden administration has yet to citizens, and supports the communi- broadband across the country, improv- migrants on the southwest border, the action applauded by environmentalists to take consequential action on crim- ties hit hardest by the pandemic –– was ing and building new schools, investing Biden administration has encouraged who object to the construction of the inal justice reform within his first two signed on March 18. Critics of the aid in clean energy, and numerous other ar- those seeking to enter the U.S. to refrain oil pipeline due to its corrosive leaking, months, aside from an early execu- package said the bill was poorly target- eas. Biden is also expected to introduce from doing so as they are still “in the contribution to greenhouse-gas emis- tive order terminating federal private ed and largely unrelated to coronavirus, additional proposals to address educa- process of getting set up,” said Biden. sions and destruction of indigenous prison contracts. While Biden pledged citing some of the provisions as a liberal tion, child care, and other social pro- While Biden has already made prog- lands. The administration also faced during his campaign to establish a po- “wish list”, according to Senate Minority grams in the coming weeks. While this ress in regards to several of his cam- criticism for this executive action, as the lice oversight board within his first 100 Leader Mitch McConnell. proposal has already sparked criticism paign pledges and main platforms, vot- order to halt construction on the pipe- days, the administration has not taken “This historic legislation is about from members of Congress due to its ers are still awaiting action on some key line eliminated a number of union jobs. any clear action to do so thus far. rebuilding the backbone of this coun- high price tag and proposed tax hikes 100-day agenda promises that remain Though the exact number of jobs lost Biden’s actions on immigration thus try,” Biden said before signing the relief on corporations, Biden cites this plan unfulfilled. as a result of this action is unknown, far have focused on reversing the pol- bill. “And giving people in this nation, as a “once-in-a-generation investment” TC Energy, the company behind the XL icies of the previous administration, working people, middle-class folks, the and seeks to gain bipartisan support for 6 • INSPIRING STUDENT VOICES EST. 1941 POUGHKEEPSIE, TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021 MARISTCIRCLE.COM MARIST CIRCLE FEATURES Diversity and Inclusion Event With a Focus on Fashion

Featuring Editor-in-Chief of the Cut, Lindsay Peoples Wagner

BY GRETA STUCKEY the world of fashion and how she was positions. The event moderator, Marist moment that would pass,” Wagner said. “Diversity and inclusion is not just Campus News Editor able to fill her resume with prestigious Fashion Director John Bartlett, asked “Any company that signs on to work about posting on social media, it’s about journalism jobs as a Black woman in a Wagner how she was able to write with the Black in Fashion Council works serious education and action,” Ford The fashion industry hasn’t always predominantly white industry. about unspoken issues. with us for the next three years because said. “Diversity education opportunities been accepting of all people, and Lind- “I think I have been fortunate to work “I felt like there were a lot of pieces we wanted companies to understand should not be optional. If we can teach say Peoples Wagner has dealt with at places that are fostering a culture focusing on assistants who felt like they this is not a moment, it’s a movement.” the diversity in fashion today, we can exclusion first-hand. As the current that focuses on making things inclusive weren’t getting fair treatment and a lot Bartlett spoke about the college’s ef- change the fashion industry tomorrow.” editor-in-chief of The Cut, Wagner has and intersectional,” Wagner said. “I feel of those pieces weren’t getting taken fort to teach fashion focusing on diver- Alexandria Jimenez ‘23, another worked her way up in the fashion space like brands and companies are in a bad seriously because of their positions. I sity, inclusion and sustainability. fashion student, said she looks to the and continuously fights for equity, di- habit of putting a Martin Luther King wanted to take the approach of inter- “The Marist fashion program has em- department’s social media accounts versity and inclusion in the industry. quote or a black square and saying they viewing all the senior-level people in phasized the importance of sustainabil- because they feature posts encouraging “I always liked the idea of fashion, are going to do something, but then the industry which hit home for a lot of ity throughout my time in the program,” diversity and sustainability in the Hud- but it didn’t occur to me for a long time don’t actually do it. I want people to be people,” she said. Natalie Ford ‘21, a fashion design major, son Valley and beyond. that I could even work in fashion,” Wag- held accountable if they say they really After writing that story and bringing said. “However, I cannot say the same “I think Marist’s fashion program is ner said. “When I was at New York Mag- care about inclusivity, diversity and eq- a fresh perspective to those working in for diversity and inclusion. In studying starting off on the right foot in terms of azine, I really wanted to use my voice to uity, then what are they actually doing.” the fashion industry, Wagner took it one designers and trends of the past, there emphasizing the importance of diversi- write about inclusivity and to hone in A pivotal moment in Wagner’s career step further and, in 2020, she founded was no mention of any designers of col- ty in the fashion world,” Jimenez said, on stories that weren’t being told from came when she published the article the Black in Fashion Council with San- or, whether they are Black, Asian, Latinx but agreed that the curriculum lacks an a diverse perspective.” “Everywhere and Nowhere: What it’s drine Charles. The council is dedicated or other.” emphasis on designers of color. “Having On Mar. 25, Marist held the virtual Like to be Black in Fashion.” The story to holding those in the fashion industry Ford has already accepted an intern- events like the one with Lindsay Peo- event with Wagner as part of the col- was written as a side project and she accountable for change. ship at Tapestry with Coach’s product ples Wagner, who is a person of color, lege’s diversity and inclusion event se- interviewed over 100 people of color in “I think over the past year, a lot of development team when she graduates really inspires others who want to be ries. Wagner gave students insight into the fashion industry with senior-level companies thought that this was just a from Marist this spring. like her.”

On March 25, Marist held the virtual event with Lindsay Peoples Wagner as part of the college’s diversity and inclusion event series. Photo by Greta Stuckey ‘23 Marist League of Legends Team Takes First Place in MAAC Esports Conference

it consists of two teams in a 5v5 brawl. tournament in Albany. Since then, the The goal is to destroy the opposing program has expanded greatly, creating team’s base. Each player selects a cham- teams for other games including “Super pion, or a playable character, and uti- Smash Bros,” “Rocket League,” “Over- lizes their unique abilities to make de- watch” and “Valorant.” cisive plays, secure kills and take down Both the “Overwatch” and “Rocket the enemy turrets. League” teams won their respective “Being on the League team is some- MAAC championships in the 2021 sea- thing I look forward to every semester,” son as well. Luke Jacobs ‘23 said. “I love playing on In prior years, the Marist Esports the team because it’s a great group of team convened in their suite at the Han- guys. We have made a ton of memories cock Center, which is outfitted with 12 over the seasons, both in and out of the separate gaming stations to foster com- game.” munication and shot calling. Since the Tarik Narma ‘21 said this season’s advent of the pandemic, the obstacles win felt particularly rewarding. “Marist that COVID-19 has brought have stifled has a legacy of winning the conference their well-established in person train- tournament every year, so it was nice ing routines. not to break the streak.” Narma said, Even in the face of the pandemic and who has been on the team since 2019. the unique restrictions that came with “The Esports team is like a second fam- it, they managed to dominate the 2021 Marist’s “League of Legends” Esports team wins the MAAC championship against Fairfeld University. ily to me.” MAAC Championships. Photo via Marist Esports on Twitch (MAAC) finals on Mar. 20. Their victory the “League of Legends” team, who The Esports program at Marist has The Marist Esports team has posted humble beginnings. Members of an the stream from the League of Legends BY WYATT CANNON against the opposing Fairfield Universi- have been practicing for their season unofficial group playing “League of finals on its Twitch account (Marist_Es- & JOE TUOSTO ty team came as no surprise. since the beginning of the fall semes- Legends” as a hobby went on to found ports), so all students can see first-hand Staff Writers During the 2020 season, Marist also ter. Typically, the Esports team spends placed first in the “League of Legends” several hours a week practicing to make the Esports program in 2018. That first how the Red Foxes took home another This year, Marist College’s “League of championship, as well as the “Rocket sure that they are always bringing their year, the “League of Legends” team victory. Legends” Esports team placed first in League” and “Overwatch” finals. A-game. saw a great victory, winning the cham- the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference The victory this year meant a lot to For those unfamiliar with the game, pionship trophy at the ECAC/MAAC 7 • INSPIRING STUDENT VOICES EST. 1941 POUGHKEEPSIE, TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021 MARISTCIRCLE.COM MARIST CIRCLE FEATURES

ON THE MARIST COMMUNITY Former Marvel President Brings Experience into the Classroom Adjunct Professor Gerald Calabrese Offers His Students Insight Into the Media Industry

BY SASHA TUDDENHAM its original fame. Playboy was one of the “The first two were the most fun be- on the frontlines, he explores how leg- Staff Writer first magazines to have an internation- cause they offered the most ability to acy media has been influenced by the al presence, and he helped expand the express your own personality, energy, internet and how this will shape the Transitioning from journalist, to company to offer products and services and self into what you were doing.” industry in years to come. publisher, to media expert, Gerard Ca- beyond just the magazine. After ten For Calabrese, he preferred running Calabrese recognizes that students labrese has always been drawn to cre- years, he gathered enough investors to the international program than being need to be educated about what ca- ativity. His latest move has been filling buy back Games, gaining equity in the president. reer they plan on pursuing. Bringing the role of adjunct Communication magazine. “My favorite times at Marvel were in journalists, media experts, and his professor at Marist College, where he After leaving Games, Marvel Comics times of creation,” Calabrese recalled. colleagues to share their daily lives and teaches students about today’s media recruited Calabrese as a consultant in “You find companies to buy, people to responsibilities with students can help and entertainment. an attempt to expand their company — hire, set up an office, and create a pro- them decide for themselves whether Calabrese likens his career path similar to what Playboy had done. Soon gram that is suddenly important. That’s or not they’ll enjoy that career and life- to a Jimmy Buffett quote: “Watch the after, Calabrese spearheaded Marvel’s exciting. If you’re successful at that, you style. men who rode you switch from sails to consumer product program, then their get punished by becoming the presi- As a professor, he encourages stu- steam.” His intelligence and adaptabil- international program, and later be- dent. At that point, you are not creating dents to study individuals they wish to ity helped him switch from one career came president of the company. With anything anymore. You are overseeing Marist adjunct professor and former emulate in their career and find a way path to the next. him on staff, the company was able to the things that you helped create.” Marvel president, Gerard Calabrese. to replicate those career paths to find Despite describing himself as a transition from selling just comic books As president, his focus was on direc- such success. “We have made such a big “counterculture guy,” he began his ca- into the massive global phenomenon it tion, ensuring that the editors had good The wisdom Calabrese gained from deal about honoring and valuing the reer working at Games magazine — is today. storylines planned for future projects. working in the media industry now al- talent that is within us,” Calabrese said. which was owned by Playboy at the “In the world of media, you are either Although he could suggest ideas, he had lows him to teach Marist students about “But we don’t often realize that some- time. Working at Games, Calabrese starting something, saving something, no creative power over the editorial di- the convergence of media. Having been times the way to develop, is to look out- learned how to expand a brand beyond or running something,” Calabrese said. rection. side of us.”

Meet Mark Palmer: Marist’s Fourth Presidential Fellow

BY ALEXIS COLUCCI decisions for an organization. President Hall Council his sophomore year. Opinion Editor Murray has had high expectations for The summer before his senior year, When Mark Palmer ‘20 got a job of- me, and I am grateful for his mentor- Palmer was selected for Marist’s Tarver fer from President Dennis J. Murray, he ship.” Internship Program to work with a lo- froze. Born in South Los Angeles, Palm- cal nonprofit. For his internship, Palmer “I think that’s what happens when er attended Verbum Dei High School, partnered with Marist’s Upward Bound you know you’re going to learn and where all graduates are expected to Program, which helps over 100 stu- work with an individual who is one of attend college. His own plans for pur- dents from two local high schools pre- the best leaders in higher education,” suing higher education were heavily in- pare for college through a core curricu- Palmer said. fluenced by the passing of his father the lum and educational services. As the college’s fourth presidential year he entered middle school. As a first-generation college student, fellow, Palmer assists the President’s “I remember once telling my dad I Palmer experienced some of the same Office and vice presidents on campus wanted to go into the military. He stops challenges as the students he worked in a variety of matters –– most notably, me and says ‘You’re going to college,’” with through the program. He tried to operating a college in the middle of a Palmer said. “I was eight or nine, and guide them, much like the mentors who pandemic. At the time Palmer accept- he said, ‘You’re not going to follow the changed his own life. ed the position, COVID-19 continued same route I took.’ From a young age “I have had challenges during my to rage across the country, infection when we had that conversation, I didn’t undergraduate experience, but a strong rates rising and resources depleting. know the process to get into college but support group helped me get through He knew that ensuring a safe and suc- receiving a Bachelor’s degree is a foun- challenging times,” Palmer said. “I had cessful semester would be challenging, dation for my future.” great advisors and had an excellent but his optimism and determination Palmer knew he wanted to attend friend group throughout my undergrad prevailed. college on the East Coast, and after experience.” “I enjoy problem-solving with my being approached by a recruiter at a Palmer’s passion for politics and ef- colleagues and attempting to find the college fair, he applied to Marist as a forts to ensure social justice don’t end best solution possible, even if it’s a dif- first-generation student. with Marist. He attended the 2020 ficult decision to make,” Palmer said. “The biggest challenge as an under- Democratic Primary in New Hampshire His first few weeks also coincided graduate was having a sense of survi- through the Marist Institute for Public with Black Lives Matter protests across vor’s guilt. There is an added amount of Opinion. Palmer credits the trip as an the country, bringing conversations stress, but I had to accomplish the goal eye-opener, and, when the time is right, about race in higher education to the of completing my Bachelor’s degree,” he plans to run for political office him- forefront. “Having those conversations Palmer said. self. For now, he is continuing to work are difficult and necessary for us to con- Palmer entered Marist as a political towards his master’s degree in an MPA tinuously improve as an institution,” science major with a minor in crimi- program while remaining focused on Palmer said. nal justice. Politics and social activism tackling every new challenge the Pres- Prior to accepting the position, Palm- have remained important to Palmer ident’s Office has to offer with the hard er had worked with Murray as a men- throughout his undergraduate career, work and positive attitude he’s devel- tee after taking his Leadership Honors evidenced by his active involvement as oped from a young age. Seminar and said Murray had “set him the secretary and then vice president of “Working with my colleagues on on the right path.” the Marist Democrats. In his role, Palm- problems is rewarding, especially “It was one of the best courses I’ve er expanded membership, attended the knowing we are going to find a solu- taken at Marist,” Palmer said. “The Women’s March in D.C. and helped to tion,” Palmer said. “I am constantly canvas for local politicians like Anto- learning from my colleagues to be a As the college’s fourth presidential fellow, Palmer assists the President’s biggest takeaway was that being a nio Delgado. Palmer also served on the better professional and continuously Offce and vice presidents on campus in a variety of matters –– most notably, good leader doesn’t happen overnight. eBoard of Zeta Psi and on the Residence learning new ways to problem-solve.” operating a college in the middle of a pandemic. Credit: Carlo de Jesus Leaders must be able to make tough 8 • INSPIRING STUDENT VOICES EST. 1941 POUGHKEEPSIE, TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021 MARISTCIRCLE.COM MARIST CIRCLE FEATURES Kelly’s Bakery Greets Poughkeepsie with Fresh Bread and Big Hearts

BY BROOKE MAHONEY Halim and Oakley focus on creating They even extend a warm welcome Staff Writer a safe and welcoming space that is also down to their four-legged friend for present on the menu. Halim wants all of whom “Kelly’s Bakery” is named after: Just a five-minute stroll from Marist his customers to receive the full flavor Kelly, Halim’s beloved dog. What began College lies Kelly’s Bakery. Recently of each item, regardless of dietary con- as a joke between the couple, turned opened by owners Kevin Halim and cerns. As a result, they crafted a vege- into a metaphor for the bakery’s mes- Darrin Oakley, Kelly’s Bakery is a tra- tarian-based menu that includes a col- sage on inclusion and community. “I ditional cafe with a modern twist and lection of gluten-free desserts as well. want a place where people can bring welcoming mission. “From someone that’s adventurous their whole family,” Halim said, allud- A graduate of Le Cordon Bleu and to someone more traditional, we have ing to customers on their morning dog the Culinary Institute of America, Halim something for everyone,” Halim said, walks, or families stopping by for a boasts an impressive resume work- comparing the cafe’s beetroot latte to weekend brunch. ing in well-established restaurants. “I their beloved classic cinnamon roll. As Kelly’s Bakery rounds out its first didn’t want to go to business school,” “[Kelly’s Bakery] is not just some fan- few months of business at its Delafield Halim said, chuckling while sharing cy bakery,” as Halim puts it, but a place St. location, Halim and Oakley continue how he got his start in the kitchen. “I for everyone to call home. to share their pastries, passions and decided to be a bit of a rebel and apply “This is a safe space for anyone under hearts with the community of Pough- to culinary school without my parents any condition,” Oakley said. Even during keepsie. And the couple does not plan knowing.” a global pandemic, Oakley emphasizes to stop anytime soon. “We always joke After a career working in culinary the importance of creating a safe and we’re going to open an ice cream shop and pastry arts across the country, welcoming environment for all. No mat- and name it after our cat,” Halim said, Halim and his husband, Oakley re- ter your allergies, your culture, your “So, if you ever see a Pearl Creamery, turned home to the Hudson Valley. The social class, or your race, Halim and that’s probably us!” couple settled into life in Poughkeepsie, Oakley greet everyone with open arms. and Halim took a break from plated pas- tries while discovering a new passion for bread baking. Amidst the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Halim and Oakley found themselves with more loaves of bread than their family could consume. Sharing his husband’s impressive bakes on Facebook, Oakley began to recognize the comments Halim’s arti- san bread attracted. With Halim deep into his new quarantine activity, the couple decided to sell their fresh baked loaves on Facebook. “Within 45 min- utes, we sold out.” They took this as a sign to open a bakery of their own. Oakley, born and raised in Poughkeepsie, dreamed of re- viving the local bakery atmosphere he grew up in. “There hasn’t been a fresh bread bakery nearby for a long time,” Halim said. The pair strives to comple- In addition to baked goods from Culinary Institute-trained ment the memories of Poughkeepsie’s chef/co-owner Kevin Halim, Kelly’s Bakery also offers a wide old local shops for a modern and di- A small sampling of the baked goods found at the newly-opened Kelly’s Bakery selection of hand-crafted drinks. Courtesy of Aaron Maldonado verse community. on Delafeld St. in Poughkeepsie. Courtesy of Aaron Maldonado and Kevin Halim. and Kevin Halim. COVID-Safe Assistances at Academic Services Safety Protocols for Tutoring, Proofreading, and Editing

BY AMANDA DIBRE Center has implemented a new email the Writing Center has been providing Staff Writer tutoring service for essays. Students tutors with professional education on can send in their papers and receive ex- ways to help students who are dealing Tutoring during the COVID-19 pan- tensive written feedback without ever with anxiety, depression or disabilities demic evidently looks different, but meeting someone face to face. Kathleen that are left unaccommodated during students are reaping the same ben- Weisse, director of the Writing Center, the pandemic. Weisse said that for the efits. The Academic Learning Center said this service is extremely popular. past year, they have also been hold- and Writing Center have been working Similarly, the proofreading service, ing workshops to find ways to actively for the past two semesters to provide which is connected to the Academic foster inclusivity at Marist through an- COVID-safe tutoring options. Learning Center, has seen even more ti-racist writing and communication. “There is so much support at Marist submissions since going virtual. “We’ve Eliana Assaf ‘23, said she started tu- for students. They just need to ask for had an increase in faculty submissions, toring in the fall because she wanted to it,” Richard Cusano said, director of the which really speaks to the program it- help her peers. “I like helping people Academic Learning Center. self — that they feel confident having and watching the students understand With 175-250 tutors on hand, Cu- student proofreaders proof papers. I al- the material as the semester goes on,” sano can find a tutor for most classes ways get positive feedback from them,” she said. “I get to see them progress within 48 hours. In an effort to prac- Nicole Murphy, who leads the proof- from a nervous student to someone tice social distancing, Zoom has been reading program, said. confidently asking questions and learn- a crucial factor in making this possible. Both the Writing Center and Aca- ing. I would definitely continue this in Camryn Stoner, a sophomore tutee and demic Learning Center have seen an the future.” athlete on the Women’s Lacrosse team, increase in students placing their trust However, online tutoring is not with- said that despite the periodic technical in these tutors — sometimes with out its challenges. Both Assaf and Ston- difficulties, it’s extremely convenient to more than just their classes. “Writing er agree that not being in-person to just log online for a session. is already something that can be very work out a problem together has been Even as an athlete with a tight sched- challenging. It can be emotional and difficult. Sometimes, it’s easier to show ule, Stoner has never experienced diffi- exhausting,” Weisse said. “We have a what you are trying to do rather than culty finding a tutor. “I think the tutors lot of students coming in and unloading finding the words. are great with scheduling. Our practice with our tutors if they haven’t talked to Academic Services directors are times are all over the place, but I’ve nev- someone in a while, or they’re feeling hopeful that tutoring will return face- er had an issue not getting in,” Stoner disconnected from their classes. I’m to-face in Fall 2021, because virtual said. “If I needed one now, I could prob- glad we can provide an additional level tutoring cannot fully replace the hands ably get one.” of support.” on experience. However, they do plan to To make it even more convenient To prepare tutors to give their stu- continue certain forms of virtual tutor- dents this emotional reinforcement, ing because of its convenience. to receive academic help, the Writing Courtesy of Amanda Dibre 9 • INSPIRING STUDENT VOICES EST. 1941 POUGHKEEPSIE, TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021 MARISTCIRCLE.COM MARIST CIRCLE FEATURES Greek Life’s Virtual Rush Fraternities and Sororities Adapt Recruitment to a COVID-Safe, Virtual Model

BY MAKENA GERA uine, relaxed conversations. We’ve got- host all of their rush events in person, through rush. Theta Delta Chi’s re- the pandemic has taken away. “Greek Features Editor ten to know the girls just as well as we including cornhole, ping pong, a bas- cruitment chair, James Kagel, said that life offers them something they haven’t usually do in person.” ketball game viewing and a Mario Kart although they had to adapt quickly, the yet gotten to experience in college,” Jack Recruitment for Greek Life looked While chatting over Zoom is easy, the tournament. Unfortunately, due to the recruitment experience hasn’t changed. Williamson, president of Kappa Sigma, significantly different this year. Marist real difficulty was figuring out how to spike in COVID cases on campus and Even with virtual events, Greek life said. “While Zoom events aren’t as fun College students no longer entered a move over 100 potential new members subsequent precautionary pause start- has experienced a high level of interest as being in-person, everyone was really room with a couple of hundred others through Zoom breakout rooms. “We had ing on Mar. 17, all Greek organizations — likely because it offers the camara- enthusiastic and showed interest in ev- who signed up for recruitment. Instead, some technical issues and at one point, had to adapt to a virtual model midway derie and community atmosphere that ery single one.” they signed into a Zoom breakout room everyone ended up in the same main to have their first conversations with Zoom room,” Brianna Centeno said, re- their future Greek brothers and sisters. cruitment chair for the Alpha Sigma Tau Needless to say, the experience was an sorority. “But other than that, it’s been adjustment. successful.” “When you walk into the recruit- Along with the other sororities and ment rooms, you feel the energy and fraternities on campus, Marist’s Zeta enthusiasm, the positivity, and you read Psi fraternity has been running on a people’s body language,” Audrey More, Zoom-only model for the past two se- president of Marist’s Tri Sigma sorority, mesters. As a result, conducting rush said. “When you’re on our side recruit- virtually was an easy task. The biggest ing new members, you see their body challenge with Zoom is how easy it is to language — whether they’re nervous or get distracted while using the platform. excited. But over Zoom, it’s completely “So the question became, ‘What do we different.” do to keep everybody’s attention?’” Having already operated semi-vir- Jaime Ronquillo, president of Zeta Psi, tually for the past year, this is the first said. “We’ve made things more interac- time Greek organizations have had to tive. We won’t just be talking; we might conduct virtual recruitment. Meeting be playing a game, or some other simple potential new members over Zoom activity that makes the time much more might initially sound difficult. However, worth it. The new guys have really en- everyone has become so familiar with joyed it as well.” Zoom over the past year, presidents of Marist’s other two fraternities, Theta Greek organizations say there have ac- Delta Chi and Kappa Sigma, also oper- tually been various advantages to virtu- ated with a similar style. For each one, al rush. recruitment was more than just chat- “In person, the room tends to get ting over Zoom — it included every- loud and chaotic, sometimes making it thing from online poker to video games. difficult to focus on the conversation at However, rush didn’t start out entirely hand,” Catherine Farmer, president of virtual. All three fraternities hosted a Marist’s Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority, “Meet the Greeks’’ event in person on said. “Recruiting over Zoom lessened March 15. these distractions and led to more gen- Theta Delta Chi originally planned to The Alpha Sigma Tau sorority prepares to meet potential new members during recruitment, which was held virtually this spring. Source: Alpha Sigma Tau Zebra Mussels Invade the Hudson RiveR

BY MADISON LANGWEIL Microzooplankton populations have tended instigation of these mussels in the river is a “fascinating transconti- Science Columnist significantly decreased by 70% and a little more for the phytoplankton pop- nental story,” Feldman said. Zigzagging yellow and brown colors ulation. Fish species such as Shad and It is difficult to eliminate the species, on a wedge-shaped bivalve mollusk redbreasted sunfish are struggling to but some of the best ways to decline identify the small, but mighty zebra survive from other sources of food. the spread include: cleaning the boat mussel that sits at the bottom of the Oxygen levels are decreasing and food surfaces, letting it dry and spreading Hudson River, actively damaging and supply is decreasing which all in all cre- awareness to others. altering the aquatic ecosystem. These ates a domino effect in the food chain of It appears that the zebra mussels fingernail-sized mussels, usually rang- the Hudson. are reaching younger ages than in the ing from one-quarter to one and a “In Lake Erie, it was attributed with past and the presence of older mussels half-quarter in size, use their byssal helping to clear the lake of excessive al- is less common, giving more ability for threads and tiny fibers to stick to ves- gae,” Dr. Richard Feldman, the environ- other species to survive. The Hudson sels, power plants, aquatic plants and mental chair at Marist, said. ecosystem is presently different than it rocks where they claim their territory The clear waters are allowing sun- was pre-invasion. and populate like rabbits. light to sneak in and allow additional “If we don’t do anything,” Nick Classified as invasive, these freshwa- growth of aquatic plants for other fish Phelps, co-director of the Minnesota ter shellfish initially showed up in 1991 species and native mussels to feed on, Aquatic Invasive Species Research Cen- in the Hudson and in under two years but once again, “With almost all inva- ter (MAISRC) said, “everything that can Classifed as invasive, these freshwater shellfsh initially showed “the weight of the zebra mussels in the sion cases,” said Stuart Findlay, Stray- be invaded, will be.” up in 1991 in the Hudson. Photo courtesy of Riverkeeper river was greater than the combined er’s colleague at the Cary Institute weight of all the fish, all the water birds, Ecosystems Studies in Millbrook, New all the invertebrates, all the other bi- York. “There are winners and there are valves, all the eels, all the insects in the losers.” river,” David Strayer, freshwater ecolo- This is a dynamic shift caused by gist and researcher at the Cary Institute their abundant population and behav- Ecosystems Studies in Millbrook, New ior is detrimental because of their in- York, said. “Each female can have 1 mil- stinct to outcompete native species for lion eggs a year.” food and their suffocation of about 70% One may think that cleaner and more of native mussels because of their abili- visible water is better, however, this ty to attach to various surfaces. can indicate other imbalances in the “They’ve just completely trans- aquatic food web. These invasive mus- formed the ecology of the river,’’ Strayer sels are filter feeders or, in other words, said. these mollusks can draw in water and Humans could be blamed for the particles as their source of food. Their spread of this invasive species because efficiency at this can eliminate many of the constant transport across dif- floating particles in the water. This es- ferent water locations. The invasive sentially decreases the abundance of bivalves expel veligers, larvae, into the food for other native species and makes water that can stick to traveling boats it easier for predators to see their prey. to increase their population. The unin- The Hudson River is home to the invasive Zebra mussels. Credit: Greta Stuckey ‘23 10 • INSPIRING STUDENT VOICES EST. 1941 POUGHKEEPSIE, TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021 MARISTCIRCLE.COM MARIST CIRCLE OPINION The COVID-19 Vaccine: A Fox Gets the Shot

BY ERIN-LEIGH HOFFMAN My main concern was the potential side once I woke up, the symptoms were Staff Writer effects. Since I have no history of severe very noticeable. I felt feverish and had allergic reactions from vaccines, I had the common body aches with chills that On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fri- confidence that I would not have an is- come with a fever, but my temperature days, I am a door monitor at Noyes sue from either dose. Regardless of my never rose above 99 degrees. I decided Hospital in Dansville, New York. I greet past history with vaccines, I knew there to rest and take Advil or Motrin as need- patients and staff, take their tempera- was still a chance of a reaction happen- ed. While these symptoms were annoy- tures, and ask questions regarding their ing. When I made the decision to docu- ing, they were bearable. After a day or travel history, exposure knowledge, and ment my experience getting vaccinated, so, I was back to feeling just fine. their purpose at the hospital. I am also I made sure to be transparent about any It’s now been over a month since I got one of the first staff members in the symptoms I felt to be accurate while de- my vaccine, and I have experienced no hospital to face exposure to COVID-19 scribing my experience. issues. Right now, I have the predicted if a positive patient enters the hospital. At 8 a.m. on the morning of my first immunity level and I would absolutely When I’m not monitoring the door, dose, I entered a large conference room prefer my experience of a day feeling I sit in an office in the Medical Records in the hospital I work at. A woman at the under the weather from the full dose, department, filing the charts of each table took my insurance card, screened than getting COVID-19. The virus can patient who comes through. The words me for COVID-19 symptoms and expo- not only make you feel horrible while “expired” in bright orange with the sure, and took my temperature. Along it is in your system, but for many, also “COVID-19” tag on the corner of the pa- with the others in the room, I received causes long-term effects that diminish per, gives a new understanding to the the Pfizer vaccine and then waited in quality of life. realness of this pandemic. the observation section of the room for It is clear we are making strides to As a healthcare worker, I had the 15 minutes. Here, doctors and nurses once again be able to interact safe- opportunity to get an appointment for monitored us for any reactions to the ly. However, being vaccinated doesn’t the vaccine about two weeks after New vaccine. I truly don’t care for needles, mean that it is safe to stop wearing a York deemed healthcare workers eli- so I was pleasantly surprised when the mask and social distancing. Until we gible. I knew that I had an invaluable vaccine did not hurt at first. have a significant number of the popu- opportunity to educate my friends and I noticed no symptoms within the lation vaccinated, we need to continue family about my experience, especially first 15 minutes of my first dose. Once to take caution. with the misinformation that surrounds cleared, I received an official CDC vac- The decrease in infections, deaths, these vaccines. I used social media to cination card with my personal infor- and the fact that more people are ful- document my own experience to help mation, the vaccine I received, the date ly vaccinated than infected is fantastic others decide whether or not to get vac- of my first dose, and when my second progress that can be quickly reversed cinated. The response that I received dose would be in four weeks later. if we aren’t careful. We still have an was extremely positive — and I want The worst side effect I had was a obligation, not only to ourselves, but to to share my experience with the Marist simple sore arm that went away with- others to be safe. We will see concerts, College community to help give this ab- in about 48 hours, which I documented parties, family gatherings, in-person stract process a face and a name. on my Instagram story. When the time classes, and open-business soon, but Prior to my first dose on Dec. 29, came for my second dose on Jan. 19, I only if we take our responsibility to get 2020, I didn’t know the specific vaccine posted a series of similar stories — to that point seriously. In the meantime, I would receive. This led me to do re- going to the same hospital conference we can do our part by getting the vac- Photo by Erin Leigh Hoffman ‘24. search into the two that were available room, presenting my card, getting my cine. Speaking from experience, I advise at the time, Moderna and Pfizer. I found second shot, waiting the 15 minutes anyone who is currently eligible to get This is my personal experience with the vaccine, and the that the vaccines are similar: two dose and then going to work upstairs. the vaccine to do so. It is the best thing and mRNA vaccines with an immunity I anticipated having some symptoms we can do to protect ourselves and for information I share is from my perspective and online rate of roughly 95% after two weeks following the second dose. As I suspect- the greater good of those around us to sources. I am not a medical professional. If you have any following the second dose of these vac- ed, I eventually began to notice a slug- hopefully soon return to normalcy. concerns regarding your eligibility for the vaccine, please cines. gish feeling with some mild body aches, I am fortunate enough to not have at which point caused me to leave work speak with your doctor. had COVID-19 before I got the vaccine. early. I took a nap when I got home and Boulder Shooting Proves Need for Stronger Gun Control

killing 10 people, including employee Though the Biden administration Americans have to live in fear of becom- Denny Stong, 20, and responding offi- seems to recognize the severity of gun ing the next victim? When is enough, cer Eric Talley, father of seven. The Den- violence in America, I have doubts that enough? ver Post chronicled the shooting as “58 the administration will follow through As an American and a Coloradan — minutes of terror,” describing stories on their promises for gun reform. Ac- I’m tired. My brother was a baby when from survivors who desperately hid cording to The Washington Post, Biden 13 people were murdered in the Col- themselves away and texted their loved called on Congress to reinstate a ban umbine shooting. My mother told me ones to say goodbye. on assault weapons and pass two back- how she cried and never wanted her A friend of mine is an employee at ground-check bills previously approved children to go to high school because the King Soopers, who was luckily not by the House, but yet he still dedicates she was afraid. I was 11 years old when working the day of the shooting. He his time to promoting his new stimulus a gunman killed 12 people in a movie declined to comment on the tragedy package and infrastructure plans. theater in Aurora. I was scared to see because it was too painful while he Thoughts, prayers and empty prom- a movie with my friends for months. mourned the loss of his friends. ises are not enough anymore. The Biden I was a senior in high school when a Both the Biden administration and administration needs to put greater fo- woman obsessed with the Columbine Colorado officials were quick to ac- cus on passing federal gun reform leg- shooters flew nearly 2,000 miles on knowledge the tragedy and use it as an islation. His infrastructure package isn’t the 20th anniversary of the shooting opportunity to push more comprehen- in danger — people’s lives are. and purchased a gun with the apparent The lack of federal gun control cre- intention of repeating the tragedy. Au- After the mass shooting in Boulder, C.O., the Biden administration must make sive gun control laws. ates even greater struggles for state thorities lost track of her when she was strides toward stricter gun control laws. Photo by Wikimedia Commons: The “I don’t need to wait another minute, and local governments to regulate hours away from my home. I begged my White House. let alone an hour, to take common sense steps that will save lives in the future,” firearms. Without uniform gun control friends not to go to school that day. Biden said. He then advocated for ac- laws throughout the country, too many We are tired. tions to improve the background check loopholes exist. Anyone can drive a few It’s time for the federal government BY LAURYN STARKE to see yet another mass shooting rock system prior to gun purchases and ban hours to another state to purchase an to make saving American lives a prior- Director of Multimedia my home state at a supermarket only assault weapons and high-capacity assault weapon and take it back over ity. We have waited too long and have 45 minutes away from my childhood magazines. state lines. Biden still wouldn’t commit seen too many deaths while public of- The mass shooting in Boulder on home. The King Soopers in Boulder, The shooting happened only 10 days to pursuing gun control measures, even ficials skirt around the issue without Mar. 22, is just one event in the long his- the site of the latest mass shooting, is after a Colorado court blocked a ban as the White House flag still hung at half actually passing the comprehensive gun tory of tragic shootings in Colorado. The a place where I used to get late night on assault weapons, which the city of mast from the recent mass shooting in control this country needs. The victims state has become notorious for holding snacks with my friends and coffee the Boulder had enacted in 2018. The court Georgia, less than a week before the in Boulder didn’t have time to wait for one of the highest rates of mass shoot- next morning. But now it’s another struck the ban down after being chal- tragedy in Boulder. the government to make their safety ings, ranking 5th in the country despite graveyard in the place I call home. lenged by gun advocates and the Col- The question is simple: How many and their lives a priority. The time for being only 21st in population. On the afternoon of Mar. 22, the orado State Shooting Association, who more people have to die before some- waiting is over. As a Coloradan, I’m deeply saddened shooter entered the busy grocery store received support from the NRA. thing changes? How much longer do 11 • INSPIRING STUDENT VOICES EST. 1941 POUGHKEEPSIE, TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021 MARISTCIRCLE.COM MARIST CIRCLE OPINION Marist Gives Another Black Eye to Music Students and Faculty

and embrace their talents again. There are videos released by Marist athletics showing soccer players prac- ticing without masks or social distanc- ing. Athletes can be seen without masks on, even when they’re not playing. Again, I want athletes to be able to play their sports, but how does the college approve of activities like this and not al- low the band or singers to make music under any conditions? I think I speak for every reasonable Marist music student when I say that we understand that operating in-per- son will require limitations — masks, social distancing measures, reduced ca- pacity — but a complete prohibition on all music activity is unacceptable. It is a complete betrayal of students who have abided by Marist’s COVID-19 restric- tions and waited patiently for the situa- tion to improve. Once the pause ends, it is time to make music again. Put simply, the administration’s operating assumption that the mu- sic department should be treated the same way as it was in the fall, is nei- ther rational nor scientific. Moreover, as mentioned previously, I believe mu- sic is a human need and life-enriching Since last fall, the music department at Marist has been practically paralyzed by the school’s administration. Photo by Pixabay. endeavour. In this respect, the school’s excessive restrictions are detrimental to student life and it is about time that BY ROBERT SCHMIDT This is why I’m incredibly disap- semester is completely different. As of is an unfortunate exception to these the college repealed them. Staff Writer pointed and frustrated. March 12, cases are about a quarter of trends nationwide. However, I believe The administration’s failure to al- Studying and playing music has been Since last fall, the music department what they were seven weeks ago. Addi- there is a simple solution to this mat- low the music department to operate the most rewarding artistic and intel- at Marist has been practically para- tionally, deaths and hospitalizations are ter: activities that are known to be or like other organizations on campus has lectual activity I have ever pursued. It is lyzed by the school’s administration. also declining, with deaths decreasing are likely to cause the virus to spread turned the department into a shell of its a profoundly human and life-enriching The band and singers are denied the to 79.2% on average every week since on-campus can be limited during the former self and make no mistake, the experience that can be hard to capture opportunity to play or sing under any Jan. 13, and hospitalizations down pause. However, once the pause is lift- administrators are to blame. To fresh- and define, but one that I believe we conditions. A proposal from the mu- 67.7% from their peak in early January. ed and the number of cases declines, man students, faculty, and members of cannot live without. Music builds char- sic faculty to mask instruments while Moreover, Americans now have ac- the gradual return to normalcy can and the Marist music family who will help acter and teaches one to celebrate their playing outside, coupled by social dis- cess to life-saving vaccines that are ex- should take place. This includes allow- this department thrive after I gradu- success while also encouraging them tancing of 30 feet, was rejected. Music tremely effective at reducing transmis- ing the music department to operate ate this summer, remember this year to develop a habit devoted to practice. at Marist has essentially been limited to sion, serious illness, and death. In fact, in-person. and how the administration treated us. I am not alone in holding this opinion. marches outside without instruments, studies have shown that the Pfizer and Making music in-person is not going When our passions were on the line, in I have been a member of the Marist singers’ meetings without actual sing- Moderna vaccine reduce infections by to get students and others severely ill a time when we could all use the happi- College music family since I came to ing and Zoom — an utter disappoint- around 95% and are effective against or killed. The administration is aware of ness and social connections that music campus. Music defines the lives of ment for those who love the band and variants. A study conducted in Israel this as well. I know this because Marist provides for us, our administration cal- countless students on Marist’s campus. singers. suggests that the Pfizer vaccine pre- has, and continues, to allow athletes lously dismissed us. They do not appre- These students devote a considerable I could possibly understand the ad- vents 98.9% of deaths. to resume training and participate in ciate us or the music we produce. To any amount of their time and effort to mak- ministration’s concerns last semester, All of this information leads directly sports, when the pause is not in effect. Marist faculty member who is working ing music with friends and peers. Like even if they failed to give us any real to the following conclusion: it is time In other words, Marist is more than to help get the music department run- me, they view music as their passion. It opportunity to prove we could operate for the country, college, and music de- happy to allow football players to prac- ning again, thank you. You have my ut- is this shared passion, coupled with the safely and meet the challenges the virus partment to begin a gradual return to tice in close proximity, but will not allow most respect and admiration. enthusiasm and the commitment of the presented to musicians. They feared normalcy. This includes allowing the a band or chorus anywhere on campus The views represented in this article music faculty at Marist, that has created that the virus would spread around music department to operate in-person with masks and social distancing. This are mine and mine alone. They do not a strong sense of community between campus and lead to an increase in infec- and let students embrace their passion double standard is infuriating and illog- represent those of the Marist Music De- music students that I am thankful to be tions in the greater Poughkeepsie area, again. ical. Like athletes, musicians at Marist partment in any capacity. a part of. putting lives in danger. However, this The recent surge in cases at Marist should be able to pursue their passions

We All Suffer Under the Same Sun

BY ANONYMOUS chew upon this feeling of love from an- we want the most, are often the ones us that it is better to walk the road to- only ourselves. Just as Narcissus ruined other person. It is new, it is sweet, and that want us the least? This realization gether than alone. Loneliness signals himself by falling in love with his own We all suffer under the sun. As the it is pleasing to the heart. Then, when of the truth makes us suffer. to our souls that while we possess the reflection, so too, we must take caution sun rises upon our daily aspirations and love loses its taste, they spit that person We may try to cling onto the theme bricks of our lives, someone out there of falling in love with the idea that self- sets upon our faults, one thing remains. out, seeking a new love. This leads to of self-love upon these insights. I have possesses the cement. Together, we can love is self-sufficiency. We all suffer under the same sun. distresses of the heart and 2 a.m. calls heard my friends say, “It is best to love construct meaningful lives. With love, We all suffer under the sun. Howev- Some suffer because of the condi- to your best friend on why this person yourself,” and “Self-love first.” Often I we have the chance to build a life with er, some suffering is worthy and a no- tions of their own lives. Some suffer be- is not the one. Short-term actions like hear, “How can you love another person someone that guards against the winds ble cause for the reward it brings. I feel cause of the lives of others. Hence, the that create long term miseries within unless you love yourself!” My response, of loneliness and the vicissitudes of ex- our generation uses the excuse of our phrase “the struggle is real,” is uttered us. This way of handling our love life in everything in moderation. As too much istence. youth to justify our lack of commitment across all of our mouths. college is like drinking the saltwater of chocolate leads to holes in our teeth, too Many people know the story of Nar- in relationships. We prefer temporal Even though the causes of our suf- temporal pleasures and wondering why much self-love leads to holes of loneli- cissus, a young man who falls into the pleasure, which brings us eternal pain. ferings may be different, there is one our souls are still thirsty. This betrayal ness and neglect within our souls. Do river because he falls in-love with the Just look at how many people voice area in which we have all felt suffering. of the truth makes us suffer. not mistake self-love for self-deceit. A reflection of himself. Hence, the term their complaints of not meeting anyone That area stems from our complicated Do not forget, love is courage. Love person in this state refuses to confront narcissism derives from the name of seriously online. Short-term behaviour love lives within college. Love requires requires such a high cost that many are their own loneliness by blindly running this man. This story warns us of the does not lead to long-term gains. A lack a bond of commitment to another per- not willing to pay it within this space. to the realm of self-love. Many people danger of being too prideful and too of lasting love is like an onion. Not only son and too often, like a bad bank loan, If you give someone your all (which is have mantras around self-love. But ask overly loving of oneself. One important does this lack of love have multiple lay- many people default on their bonds a requirement of love), then, you stand yourself this, would you prefer hearing part is missed. In the story, there is a ers within us, but this lack of love will of love throughout college. We live in the risk that they might take your all the words “I love you” from your own female called Echo, who loves this man. make us cry. We all suffer under the sun. a time where people keep their cell- and give nothing in return. Ovid once mouth or from the mouth of another? However, Narcissus fails to see past his We all must suffer under the sun. So, let phones longer than they keep their famously stated, “I flee who chases When we are in a crowd, we foolishly own ego, failing to also see that some- us suffer for what is true. Let us suffer relationships. I have seen many people me, and chase who flees me.” Some of say, “I need no one!”When we are alone, one else loves him. for what is noble. Let us suffer for the treat love and relationships with the our love lives can be summed up in this we truthfully say, “I need someone.” The greatest lie we tell ourselves is ones our hearts truly love, not just for same disregard as bubblegum. They statement. Why is it that the ones who Loneliness is our heart’s way of telling that we are not loved by anyone but now, but rather forever. 12 • INSPIRING STUDENT VOICES EST. 1941 POUGHKEEPSIE, TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021 MARISTCIRCLE.COM MARIST CIRCLE FEATURES MARIST THROUGH Marist in March: Headlines and Stories from Issues Past

BY MAKENA GERA ate Dean of Students at the time, said that if In something a bit more lighthearted, Features Editor evidence was found pointing to one student, one opinion writer claimed every member “he will be banned from the campus.” of the Marist student body falls into one of MARCH 1971 The paper also featured an ad for an eight different stereotypical characters — In a letter to the editor in the Mar. 25, event in the Foolish Fox Pub on campus — including, but not limited to, those who see 1971 issue, the writers — who called ”Eat, Drink, Be Merry.” The Subway in Hyde the campus as a land of sexual opportunity, themselves “the First-Floor Leo” — com- Park advertised a special offering: Buy- stoners, athletes and airheads. plained that Marist refused to remove a rug one-get-one-for-99-cents subs, and a quar- from their dorm. “Aside from the constant ter-page dedicated to announcing Budweis- MARCH 2000 stench,” they wrote, “the rug is infested with er’s campus athlete of the week. The front-page story on the Mar. 30, 2000 roach-nests.” The students were not asking issue of the newspaper covered a campus for the rug to be replaced; only removed. In MARCH 1991 problem that has persisted for decades — closing, they wrote that “if responsible stu- The Mar. 28, 1991 issue of the newspaper parking. Summing up the issue in one photo dents are met with responsibility, perhaps reported on a group of students testing out caption: “Overcrowded lots have students the Administration’s self-concept as ‘slum “PhoneMail,” a voice message service creat- screaming bloody murder.” Students were landlord’ deserves revision.” ed by the Marist-IBM Joint Study program. also upset about strict regulations as well Another story investigated the future of The program allowed students and faculty as punishments for repeated rule-break- Fontaine, which was set to undergo a major to send and leave voice messages 24 hours a ing, which included a “boot list” and a “tow renovation the following fall. Options under day. Students, however, preferred their own list” created by security. Students believed consideration included faculty offices, stu- personal answering machines, because as enforcement was too extreme, and tickets dent housing, on-campus apartment-style one student noted, “You see the light blink- were being given out too liberally — amount housing for faculty, or a library. Eventually, ing on the machine and you know you have to $80,000 in tickets the year before. the old Fontaine was destroyed and the one messages.” The issue’s “Security Briefs” section de- that now stands was built in its place. The paper also covered two students tails two wallets stolen from Donnelly, a seeking financial compensation for damage student passed out in the Champ breeze- MARCH 1981 to their sixth-floor dorm room in Champ. way getting escorted to the hospital, and a A decade later, in the Mar. 26, 1981 issue, During spring break the prior week, the chicken pot pie that caught on fire. Most im- another rug-related story found its spot fire department had used their closed dorm portantly, it labeled Marian as the “life and in the newspaper—this time, on the front room for a fire training drill — which stu- death of the party scene” at Marist. “Only page. Apparently, a “much celebrated” rug dents had not been informed would happen. one could imagine the amount of hash that was stolen from Champagnat’s second-floor They placed a smoke machine inside the was confiscated from two students of Mari- lounge and was found two months later by dorm that covered every inch of the space an Hall Thursday around 8 in the evening.” in a greasy residue and left a rusty water town police in a student’s off-campus apart- An advertisement in the March 26, 1981 issue of the stain on the wall. ment. Father Richard LaMorte, the Associ- newspaper promoting an event at the Foolish Fox Pub on campus. Courtesy of Marist Archives.

Front page of the March 30, 2000 issue of The Marist Circle, detailing students’ parking frustrations. Courtesy of Marist Archives. 13 • INSPIRING STUDENT VOICES EST. 1941 POUGHKEEPSIE, TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021 MARISTCIRCLE.COM MARIST CIRCLE FEATURES THE DECADES . . . Yes, Marist Once Had an On-Campus Bar The History of “The Pub” at Marist

BY MAKENA GERA Pub offered, it was also a safe place to let in a certain amount of people, so In 2021, Marist doesn’t have a place “It’s part of our college’s history, and Features Editor drink. There was no need to get into a everyone was pressed up against these for the community to meet, drink, and a lot of our students learned a lot there,” car and drive to one of the off-campus iron gates that closed at the top of the hang out with one another. No students Lynch said. “I think the Pub was a good bars. And back then, there wasn’t Dar- stairs waiting to get in.” are chatting over a pint with their pro- place to learn about yourself and other In the 1980s, Marist College stu- by’s and Mahoney’s, but Skinner’s and Lynch also recalls the Pub’s last night fessors, listening to student bands, or people — and meeting people was al- dents could walk out of their dorm The Brown Derby. Instead of leaving as well. “For all of the students, you had DJs. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic ways great. Who knows, maybe one day room in Champagnat and head down campus, students could instead go to to be there. And the place was jammed,” halting social life on campus, there isn’t we’ll have something like it again.” to the basement to find “the Pub,” the the Pub and drink without worrying he said. “It was a sad day — and I’m not a space on campus for students to enjoy college’s on-campus bar. Whether stu- how they’d get home. They also could saying that students were crying, but the same fun-filled evenings that were dents were stopping by for a quick beer feel safe knowing there were people they felt like something was being taken once had at the Pub — having a beer with friends or listening to local bands looking out for them, like Marist em- away from them.” and filling up on pub food. and live music, the Pub was the hub of ployees making sure they didn’t con- socialization on campus. sume too much. Some nights, faculty could even be The Pub replaced the “Rathskeller,” found chatting over a pint or two with a campus eatery and main gathering students. space for students in the same base- “It was a really fun place, and stu- ment location that opened in 1966. It dents enjoyed going there,” Bob Lynch, was renamed the “Foolish Fox” in 1980, Marist’s Director of Student Activities, although it was only referred to as “the said. Lynch was a freshman mentor at Pub” from then on. the college when the Pub was open. “It “The conversation came up about was a highlight of student life, and it creating a place where the Marist was just a place they could go for some community could meet and have some fun.” time together,” Lynch said. “Where stu- Located in the basement of the Stu- dents, faculty, administration, and staff dent Center, next to where the college’s could all be in the same space and have bookstore once stood, the Pub was non- good conversation.” Thus, the Pub was descript. It wasn’t fancy — unfurnished opened. aside from a dozen or so tables, a juke- As one writer or the Marist Circle box in the corner, and a long, narrow wrote in April of 1981, it was a “cen- bar. The space was dark and plain (after tral part of [Marist], so much so that it all, it was in the basement), but it was probably [had] better attendance than where every student at Marist went on most classes.” Pitchers of beer were the weekends — and often weeknights only $2.00, bottles ranged from $0.50 too. to $1.00, a hamburger was $1.75, and The consensus from those who at- french fries were $0.85. The Pub held tended Marist when the Pub was still “Community Hour” for students and operating is that it brought life to the faculty to enjoy beers together, as well campus center, providing a communi- as live entertainment from student per- ty for students. “Things were different formers on “pub nights.” back then. Nobody had a car and we In his first few years in his role as hardly ever went off-campus,” Valerie president of Marist, even Dennis Mur- Hall said, member of the class of ‘86 and ray could be found there on occasion, currently Marist’s Director of Donor saying hello to students if there was a Relations & Stewardship. “So everyone special event happening. gathered at the Pub. There was a lot of On Dec. 1, 1985, the legal drinking camaraderie. We loved it.” age in New York state was officially The legal drinking age in the early raised to 21. As a result, the Pub was ‘80s was 19 years old, so most students forced to close its doors. The last night could drink on campus as early as their alcohol was served at the Pub was freshman year. The Marist population Monday, Nov. 25, 1985 — right before was also significantly smaller than it students went home for Thanksgiv- is today. Everyone knew everyone, and ing break. When they returned, Marist everyone hung out at the pub. would be a pub-less campus. It’s difficult for current Marist stu- “I still remember that last night. It dents to imagine what it’s like having was bittersweet, and everyone wanted a full-service pub operating on campus to get in and enjoy it for the last time,” — in the Student Center no less. But re- Hall said. “But they were only going to gardless of the socialization aspect the The Marist “rathskeller,” located in the basement of the Student Center. In 1980, it became known as “The Pub,” the college’s on-campus bar. Courtesy of Marist Archives 14 • INSPIRING STUDENT VOICES EST. 1941 POUGHKEEPSIE, TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021 MARISTCIRCLE.COM MARIST CIRCLE OPINION White House Staffers Fired for Past Marijuana Use, Despite President Joe Biden’s Decriminalization Campaign

BY JULIA MEYER and Vice President Kamala Harris have to figure out how to petition for it or administration to fire these staffers for employees should maintain a level of Contributor made clear their support to decriminal- pay for a lawyer” in 2019. This, when their prior cannabis use. Doing so gives professionalism by not using cannabis ize marijuana, like how Andrew Bates, a coupled with the fact that 15 states and the appearance that the administration at work or even socially, to an extent, On Mar. 24, Press Secretary for the spokesperson for President Biden, stat- Washington D.C currently permit the is not actively enacting their promise depending on their occupation. Howev- Biden administration, Jen Psaki, con- ed in 2019 that “Vice President Biden recreational use of marijuana, calls into to decriminalize marijuana use. What er, people are entitled to a right of pri- firmed that five White House staffers does not believe anyone should be in question if the Biden administration makes the termination of these staffers vacy and should be able use cannabis have been terminated because of pre- jail simply for smoking or possessing can justify the firing of these staffers for even more unsettling is that Vice Pres- recreationally as long as it is legal. That vious marijuana use, with dozens of marijuana. He supports decriminalizing past drug use. ident Kamala Harris has openly stated being said, Press Secretary Psaki tried employees facing disciplinary actions, marijuana and automatically expunging If Biden claims that no one should she has previously used cannabis. In to defend the administration’s decision according to the White House’s Mar. prior criminal records for marijuana be in jail or penalized for their use of 2019, Harris appeared on the radio with the idea that marijuana is still il- 24 Press Release. President Joe Biden possession, so those affected don’t have marijuana, then it is illogical for their show “The Breakfast Club” where she legal federally. However, this miniscule openly shared her support for the le- difference in semantics only makes the galization of marijuana and mentioned administration look like they waver in that she smoked cannabis during col- their policies, which might make Amer- lege. If a leader, and role model, of our icans lose confidence in the Biden ad- country was able to attain her position ministration. despite having used cannabis before, As marijuana gets increasingly legal- then it is simply illogical to terminate ized across the U.S., the Biden adminis- White House staff members of a lower tration should develop future policies position than her for their use of the for marijuana usage to prevent unfair same drug. scenarios like this from happening After the incident, the Biden Admin- again. In doing so, they must take into istration implemented a more lenient consideration that some staffers could policy regarding employee marijuana reside in communities where the use use, but there is still question if this of recreational marijuana is legal. This policy is entirely fair. On Mar. 19, Press is very probable, since the White House Secretary Psaki stated that, “the ad- is located in Washington D.C. where ministration has tried not to automat- the use of cannabis is legal, and many ically penalize potential staffers for staffers most likely live within the city legal behavior in their communities by limits. developing a more flexible policy.” This The termination of White House policy allows for up to 15 past uses of staffers for their previous marijuana marijuana in a year among White House use can make Americans lose faith in staffers, though the use of hard drugs the Biden Administration. This termi- can still result in dismissal. nation calls Americans to question if Since this policy exists, there is no their leader will fulfill their campaign reason for the Biden administration promises and if they still have a right to have fired the White House staffers to privacy even in a society where mar- for marijuana use alone unless their ijuana use is increasingly becoming use exceeds the limit of past uses. Em- more legal. While the firing of these ployers – as the White House is still an staffers was overall disappointing, we employer – can implement policies that can only hope that the Biden adminis- prohibit or limit use of cannabis regard- tration can learn from their mistakes The Biden administration recently fred fve White House staffers for their previous marijuana use, despite the adminis- less of its legality, these policies are an and do better for the American people. tration’s decriminalization campaign. Photo by Aaron Kitteridge via Pexels invasion of privacy. I also agree that

“Not All Men” Trend is an Attack Against the 97%

BY JULIANNE FAGAN to being “part of the 97%.” trying to have the conversation regard- Staff Writer Another study, conducted by You- ing violence against women, into being Gov in 2017 and was listed in the same a ‘man hater.’ As a result, it allows men You hear it from statistics, stories and report, explored which public places to deny accountability and complete- experiences: a vast majority of women women experienced the most sexual ly derails the topic from the focus on have experienced sexual harassment harassment. The study found that 56% women’s issues into a defense tactic to and assault. Nonetheless women’s voic- percent of women have exepierenced put the blame back on women. es have been continuously silenced. sexual harassment in the street and When men assault women, they take As yet another ploy to silence wom- 53% have experienced it in a pub, club, their safety, confidence and happiness. en, the argument “not all men” has or bar. A 2020 YouGov study found that Let’s not let them take their stories too. arisen to make the point that it is not public transportation was also a high- We must refocus the narrative to be on all men who enact inappropriate sexual risk area, with 64% of women confirm- women, who are the victims, who are behavior toward women. ing they experienced sexual harass- the 97%. This argument becomes even more ment on the tube. This is because, yes, women know irrelevant after YouGov recently pub- Following the release of this study’s not all men are predators stalking the lished the results of a survey of over data, a wave of critics emerged on Twit- night. Women know not all men seen 1,000 women of all ages across the ter using the hashtag #notallmen. The on the street corner are planning an United Kingdom. The survey was com- “Not all Men” defense began shortly attack on the first women they see. missioned by U.N. Women U.K, the following the #MeToo movement, as But all women have grown up on the United Nations organization dedicat- some men felt personally attacked with ideology that we must be ready to pro- ed to gender equality throughout the women sharing their stories of sexual tect ourselves. We learned to grip keys country. The main goal of the survey harassment and assault. They took a between our knuckles when walking was to promote the U.N.’s Safe Spaces threat to women’s safety as a personal alone. We learned to never travel with Now campaign that aims to identify attack, valuing their pride over wom- headphones and always be alert of the solutions for women’s safety in public ens’ lives. This recent survey depicting surroundings. We learned to pack a pair settings. the 97%, unfortunately incited oppo- of running shoes, because escaping an The results of the survey found that nents to critique the movement again, assailant in heels is much more difficult. 97% of women ages 18-24 have ex- either questioning the statistic or de- While one case is sufficient for inter- pierenced sexual harassment in public fending it by saying they don’t harass or vention, 97% of women having expe- spaces, with more than 70% of women assault women. rienced the same disgusting behavior of all ages having experienced the same The “Not All Men” trend directly at- makes this an even more widespread behavior. After YouGov published the tacks survivors of sexual assault who issue. It’s correct not all men have been results, the statistics spread like a wild- are also driven to bring awareness to violent, harassed or attacked women— A recent study in the U.K. found that 97% of women had exepierienced sexual fire on social media, with the hashtag this disgusting yet common treatment but all women have to be afraid for their harassment in public settings. Yet, critics have try to counter the study with the #97percent trending and survivors of women. The “Not All Men” trend lives. trend “Not All Men.” Photo by @byrachaeluk on Instagram. sharing their stories making reference twists the narrative of anyone who is 15 • INSPIRING STUDENT VOICES EST. 1941 POUGHKEEPSIE, TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021 MARISTCIRCLE.COM MARIST CIRCLE FEATURES Fast Fashion Isn’t Just an Environmental Issue; It’s a Feminist One If you won’t lessen your clothing consumption for the environment, consider doing it in solidarity with the female workers

BY GABI MAYNARD wear them once. This is £2.7 billion that Contributor didn’t have to be spent. The most eco-friendly (and cheap- est) way to lower your clothing con- There’s a growing awareness of fast sumption is to work with what you al- fashion — the business model that rap- ready have. Look through your clothes idly generates on-trend clothing and ac- to find pieces you haven’t worn in a cessories for consumers at a generally while and see if you can rework them low price. More understanding of fast to give them a second life. It could be fashion has shown that companies like patching up holes in a pair of jeans Forever 21 and Zara who practice this you haven’t worn in months or dyeing model, fail to address the subsequent an old white t-shirt with vegetables environmental consequences, includ- and spices. You can also always bring ing increasing emission of greenhouse clothes to a tailor to have them re- gasses and depleting non-renewable paired if you don’t consider yourself to resources. However, more discussions be great at crafting and sewing. need to address that fast fashion isn’t When you’re willing to give away just a climate change issue; it’s a femi- some of your clothes, another free al- nist one as well. ternative is to try swapping with your Garment workers are 80% women, friends, family, or roommates. More between the ages of 18 and 35. In order and bigger clothing swap events oc- to meet the continuously-growing de- curred pre-COVID-19, but for now, you mand of fast fashion, companies choose can ask if those in your pod are willing to ensure efficiency at the expense of to trade items. workers and safety conditions. A 2015 If you need to buy something new, study by the American Apparel & Foot- consider buying second-hand clothing wear Association (AAFA), found that While fast fashion can be convenient, it is also extremely harmful to those who must devote their lives to create these first. It may be more difficult to thrift the U.S. imported 97% of clothing from garments, especially in overseas countries. Photo by Pexels: Tuur Tisseghem. shop in-person right now, but online overseas countries such as China, Ban- platforms like Depop, thredUP, Posh- gladesh, Vietnam, India, and Indonesia with the Oxfam report finding that 0% sisted they work. als, especially those that put hours into mark and Mercari can ship clothing, – all countries where feminist ideolo- of Bangladeshi garment workers and Aggression and sexual harassment the clothes we don’t think twice about accessories, and even home decor. Al- gies aren’t as common as in the U.S. 1% of Vietnamese garment workers are also extremely common among wearing. We can help these women by though it may take more time to find Employers take advantage of these earned a living wage in 2019. female workers in overseas factories, cutting down on fast fashion purchases. the items you want or like, you’re not women, who rely on their job to pro- Yet, employees are still required to as 68% of Cambodian female garment According to a 2017 survey by Hub- directly supporting the brands that fuel vide for their family. Therefore, they work long hours. Sometimes employ- workers having reported feeling un- bub, a London sustainability firm, 41% the exploitation of female workers and fear speaking out against the abusive ees work up to 60 hours per week comfortable or unsafe at work. In Viet- of 18-25 year olds “feel pressured to you’re participating in sustainable ef- factory conditions they endure daily. or more, and in factories that disre- nam, 34% of female garment workers wear a different outfit every time they forts. Those in positions of power, typically gard safety regulations. In the 2012 have experienced physical harassment, go out.” With image-based social media I want to be clear that the intention men, take advantage of society’s stan- Pakistani garment factory fire alone, such as kissing, touching or hitting. platforms like Instagram making it eas- of this article is not to berate and shame dards. A 2019 Oxfam report that found 314 workers died because they were Though protests and efforts to union- ier than ever to allow young adults to those who partake in fast fashion out of that 1 in 4 Bangladeshi garment work- trapped behind locked doors and met- ize and protect workers against meager hyper-fixate on their outfits, fast fash- necessity, but rather highlight its im- ers had disclosed some form of abuse al-grilled windows designed to prohibit wages, unsafe working conditions, and ion can be a tempting solution. pact on all women and provide sugges- in the study, a figure that is likely also workers from leaving before the end of manipulation have been made, they I realize cutting it out completely can tions on how to improve the situation. underreported. their shift. A year later in Bangladesh, are often ignored. Women in higher-in- be difficult at first. But even lowering I completely understand the appeal of Since these women must keep these the eight-story Rana Plaza building col- come countries like the U.S. are staying the amount of clothes you purchase fast fashion; it’s cheap, fast and trendy. jobs to survive, they experience appall- lapsed, killing 1,134 people. Workers up on the season’s trends, while women for a month can help. A 2019 survey However, I urge readers, especially ing and often dangerous working con- had noticed a large crack in the foun- overseas are struggling to stay alive. As by Barnado’s charity, found that British those who identify as feminists, to con- ditions. Garment workers overseas typ- dation the day prior and asked not to women and as feminists, we must work people will spend up to £2.7 billion on sider the facts and evaluate the reper- ically receive less than minimum wage, return until fixed, yet management in- to achieve equal rights for all individu- clothes during the summer, even just to cussions of your purchases. Have Tough Conversations with People you Disagree With

BY EDISON HAUPTMAN and different ideas if this attitude is so contradict your own has many benefits. Contributor common? According to psychologist Susan Heitler, Worse, college students’ primary participating in difficult conversations The Heterodox Academy recently source of news information is social can increase your own understanding published its Fall 2020 report on its media sites, which don’t always chal- of an issue, strengthen your perspec- “Campus Expression Climate” survey. lenge their views either. In a 2017 inter- tive, and possibly bonding you and It asked 1,311 college students from view, Sean Parker, a former president of your conversation partner on common across the U.S. whether they were re- Facebook, notes that “the thought pro- ground. Thus, by hearing new ideas, luctant to discuss any of the five core cess that went into building [social me- you can begin to make college an expe- controversial topics: politics, religion, dia applications] ... was all about: ‘How rience about learning and questioning, sexual orientation, race, or gender. Ac- do we consume as much of your time which is what it’s meant to be. cording to the report, 62% of respon- and conscious attention as possible?’” Therefore, the best way to have con- dents felt stifled by their respective col- Regardless of whether learning is an versations on conflicting ideas of your lege campuses to discuss their beliefs important aspect of your social media own isn’t to immediately reject these on these topics, an increase from 55% feed, it is important to remember that concepts and respond with hostility in 2019. social media is designed to show what towards the people who express them. The most troubling of these statis- the algorithm thinks the reader is most This is an instinctive response and it tics was that among the 60% of stu- likely to engage with. won’t facilitate a productive conversa- dents who were reluctant to discuss Specifically, the algorithms that tion. Instead, when you hear an idea one of the “core controversial topics,” guide social media feeds don’t neces- that you think is bad, you should figure 60% cited the perceived consequence sarily prioritize accuracy, as spreading out why the other person believes this Isn’t exposure to ideas different from our own supposed to be a great of criticism by other students. In other misinformation is a business itself. This idea that you find objectionable. You beneft of college? Photo by Victoria Bar via iStock.com words, 39.7% of students are so con- limited information results in a confir- might find that they have good reasons around campus to see what people be- er clarifying question. Genuinely listen cerned about negative feedback from mation bias that affects anyone who for believing what they do and it might lieve, why they believe it, and use it to to that response too! Don’t have a silly peers, that they won’t voice their own consumes media from online platforms. even change your own mind. In the case contemplate my own beliefs. No topics conversation about whether pineapple opinions on at least one potentially di- Consequently, other people may not be that you still don’t agree, you can offer are off limits. I encourage you to do the should or shouldn’t go on pizza. Have a visive topic. as aware of the ideas you think are sen- your opinion on the topic, which will same. conversation with actual stakes, maybe Isn’t exposure to ideas different from sible and obvious, and conversely, you give your conversation partner a re- Ask people questions about hard about politics, religion, sexual orienta- our own supposed to be a great benefit may not have heard of the ideas that sponse they can also reflect on. issues and when you inevitably hear tion, race or gender. Have tough conver- of college? And, how can we ensure col- others think are sensible and obvious. This semester, I am going to spend something offensive: process that feel- sations with people you disagree with. lege students receive exposure to new Getting this exposure to ideas that every Friday having conversations ing, take a deep breath, and ask anoth- 16 • INSPIRING STUDENT VOICES EST. 1941 POUGHKEEPSIE, TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021 MARISTCIRCLE.COM MARIST CIRCLE FEATURES Women Who Lead

BY EVELYN MILBURN do to create a more positive force?” ertheless, she encourages young female only good enough to be invited, but Mary Canto Rice - Assistant Director Staff Writer Bayer notes that she would like to students at Marist to not shy away from not qualified to participate. “The colo- see a larger focus on equity — including leadership opportunities. “Benefit the nized mind would have you questioning at the Center for Multicultural Affairs The conclusion of International gender-neutral bathrooms on campus team, benefit the institution, and you your worth,” Williams said. “Trust your Women’s Month in March marks the and the Higher Education Opportunity as well as the recognition and respect benefit society as a whole.” worth, trust your instinct, trust your in- perfect opportunity to highlight six of differences across all identities. “We sights. Be the authors of your own sto- Program (HEOP) women who are making an impact need people of color on all levels of po- ries. You got this.” Mary Canto Rice, assistant director around the Marist College campus. Dr. Stacy A. S. Williams - Associate sitions and the same for women, mem- for Marist’s Center for Multicultural In order to celebrate these women, bers of the LGBTQ+ community, and Professor of Psychology Affairs, strongly believes that everyone it’s essential to address the inequities Colene Doughty - General Manager of differing abilities.” “Typically, institutions have utilized must be brave enough to say, “I don’t and hardships that come with being a Marist Dining Services know, but I want to learn.” Under CMA, woman — and to an even greater ex- the intellectual equity of black wom- As the director behind Marist Dining there are various programs such as tent, a woman of color — in both the Dr. Pamela J. Harper - Associate en, but have failed to compensate them Services, Colene Doughty works incred- HEOP and ACES, as well the develop- Marist and global communities. While for their intellectual equity,” Dr. Stacy Professor of Marketing ibly hard. “As a woman, as a mother, as ment of cultural programs, academic there is no shortage of strong, female Williams said. Her work in the service Dr. Pamela Harper spent a decade in a wife, as a daughter, sister, and aunt, support, and continued diversity edu- leaders on the Marist campus, here are arena consists of mentoring faculty of corporate America prior to earning her I have unique qualities I bring to ev- cation administered to both classes and six women sharing their stories, advice color at the national level and helping Ph.D. “I worked hard and was promoted ery relationship that I have,” Doughty student groups. While not always at the for younger generations, and hopes for them navigate predominantly white to manager, and in some of those cas- said. “When I’m at work, I’m driving forefront of the student periphery, the the future. institutions. Currently, she is directing es, I was the only female and often the the Marist College Diversity Leadership change and excellence, making sure I Center works endlessly to provide cul- only person of color,” she said. When Institute, elevating expert voices on am touching every part of the unit. I can tural programs across campus and ig- Dr. Robyn L. Rosen - Professor of meeting with other business leaders, campus. be equally confident and make change nite conversations about diversity and History and First-Year Seminar Director Harper said, “there would often be no With the rightful inclusion and pro- regardless of my gender, even if peo- inclusion. eye-contact, and they would direct their ple observe my strength to be bossy On the subject of women’s leader- Dr. Robyn Rosen is unapologetic, motion of female and BIPOC voices questions to a male on my team. I need- or overly confident. It’s all about our ship, Rice spoke strongly about the quick-witted, and honest when it comes comes its own obstacles. Microaggres- ed to take extra measures to make sure personhood that we bring to the work- lack of pay equity between men and to her experience as a woman, as well sions are common in classrooms across my authority was going to be properly place.” women, citing the U.S. Women’s Soccer as what her gender identity means to all institutions, especially among stu- respected.” Not only does Doughty work tire- Team. They are an example of exempla- her. “As a feminist, it’s unclear to me dents who have never had a woman of Harper notes that within the inter- lessly for Marist Dining, but she is also ry women who perform their jobs just what the real differences are between color in authority. “This plays out often section between gender and race, there a member of Leveraging Internal Front- as well as, if not better than their male men and women, and what are the so- in evaluations,” Williams admits. “I see is a tendency for those who look or line Talent (LIFT), a national program counterparts. Yet, they are still not paid cially constructed ones.” students targeting my personality ver- speak differently to be underestimat- that assists frontline teams so they can equally. “Women should be recognized Rosen said that she was sexually ha- sus targeting the class.” Williams also ed. “You could become angry or bitter, move up within their respective com- for what they do and what they contrib- rassed early in her career at Marist. She pointed out that evaluations are used or use it as an opportunity to excel,” panies. This is based on a brand new ute,” Rice said. wants to share that part of her experi- for promotional purposes. Even indi- she said. “That can actually be a bless- peer-to-peer mentoring program that Rice is Hispanic herself, although she ence in hopes of normalizing similar rect disrespect towards a female teach- ing. I would suggest that the females at partners individuals up with program admits she doesn’t look it. “My mom discussions. Although she expressed er of color on an evaluation could influ- Marist, and even my younger self, take managers for a sixth-month mentoring was Puerto Rican and my dad is Cu- that she feels supported and encour- ence their opportunity for promotion. full advantage of being underestimated partnership. It provides workers with ban. Sometimes people are surprised aged to share her voice on our cam- In order for college’s to address and work to show up and be present in the opportunity to be seen as potential because I do not look like what they pus, she would like to see more spaces these intrinsic biases of students that terms of their voices. Make your unique company leaders. Here, Doughty rec- perceive a Hispanic person to look like. dedicated to female students, such as affect women of color, they must hire perspective heard.” ognizes her ability to uplift the voices I identify and was raised as a Hispanic a special student lounge. Rosen also BIPOC faculty and invest in transforma- Harper’s specific area of research of women and people of color in the American, but that’s not the only thing wants to see access to free birth control tive, sustained diversity and inclusion is social responsibility and the inter- workplace. “I can give them the oppor- that makes up who I am,” she said. The across campus. She is adamant about plans that “permeate all aspects of the section between business and soci- tunity to grow with the company and concept of intersectionality is a big part her stance on changing the Women’s college identity,” Williams said. “Not ety, specifically the payment of female be self-sustainable with their finances,” of what she tries to bring awareness to. Gender and Sexuality Studies minor to only the POC on campus are responsi- workers and the number of women in she said. “It’s all about paying it for- “Culture isn’t just what you look like, a major, as she was one of the lead voic- ble. Everyone is.” high-ranking roles. “[In the business ward.” it’s all the different aspects that make es in establishing the minor originally In many instances, women of col- world], less than 20% of executives are up who you are.” at Marist. or, and people of color, feel a sense of women, less than 5% are CEOs,” she When Rosen began teaching wom- “imposter syndrome.” They may false- said. “Intersect that with race, and the Pictured above, left to right: Dr. Robyn L. Rosen, Dr. Kristin Bayer, Dr. Pamela en’s studies, she said, “There wasn’t a ly believe they’re not good enough to issue becomes even more dismal.” Nev- Harris, Dr. Stacey A.S. Williams, Colene Doughty and Mary Canto Rice book that I liked, so I wrote my own.” have a seat at the table, or that they’re In 2003, in partnership with Ohio State University Press, she published an in- troduction to women’s anthology text- book, inspired by her Ph.D. dissertation, Spirit Animal Brent Sverdloff ACROSS titled Reproductive Health, Reproduc- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 1. Fashion designer tive Rights: Reformers and the Politics Vera 14 15 16 of Maternal Welfare, 1917-1940. She The Marist 5. Tableland shared her political interest in the topic 9. Monastery leader 17 18 19 of women’s rights, which led her to do 14. American ___ 15. Big oafs 20 21 22 extensive research. Through her stud- 16. Steinbeck's "The ies, she hopes to tease out the history Crossword Grapes of ___" 23 24 of two women;s movements: the fight 17. Capital south of for reproductive bodily autonomy, and Quito 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 the struggle for maternal and infant Brent Sverdloff has been an 18. Wrangler, for one 19. Eagle's perch Adjunct Professor of Spanish at 34 35 36 37 38 welfare. 20. *Impasses

Marist since 2017. He holds an 22. American tribe that 39 40 41 42 Dr. Kristin Bayer - Chair of the History advanced degree in Romance Lin- lent its name to The Sunflower State 43 44 45 Department; Assistant Professor of guistics from UCLA and has also 23. Like a bubble bath 24. See 34-Across 46 47 48 History; Director of Women’s, Gender, studied at the Universidad Com- 25. WWII encryption machine and Sexuality program plutense in Madrid. His lifelong 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 love of language (and alliteration) 30. Home again Dr. Kristin Bayer is sharp and intel- 34. With 24-Across, 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 lectual with wide-spread goals she is extends to solving and construct- Marist mascot, which rhymes with confident in seeing through, not only 63 64 65 ing crosswords for fun. Since 2008, the answers to the because of their importance but also his puzzles have appeared in the starred clues 66 67 68 because of her own passion. “As a na- New York Times, the New York Sun, 37. "Green ___" (classic tion we have not made a lot of progress sitcom) 69 70 71 on sexual violence on college campus- a Penguin literary anthology, and 38. Algerian seaport where Camus set © 2021 es. It is not a women-only problem, it elsewhere. "The Plague" is a campus problem.” Bayer said. She Whether you’re a veteran solv- 39. Collude with 68. Brazilian soccer 12. Blues singer 36. Warrior princess of advocates for a more tolerant campus, 41. Apt Shakespearean legend Redding '90s TV one that is openly accepting and cele- er or new to the game, start any- rhyme for "truth" 69. Twitch 13. "Take ___ Train" 40. *Popular online 70. Order in the court (Duke Ellington lecture series bratory of race, class, gender, and sex- where, either alone or with friends. 42. XXXII x III 43. Tree hugger, as it 71. B-boy link classic) 48. Feeling like :-( uality. “It is not enough to say ‘let’s take Crossword puzzles routinely ref- were 21. Caustic chemical 50. Bottomless pit, care of an issue specific to one group,’” erence pop culture, history, poli- 44. Source of a drumroll DOWN 24. Bacon unit poetically Bayer said. “Start by saying, ‘let’s have 45. Good to go 1. Uninhabited areas 26. Long Island county 52. Rx for Parkinson's 2. Parisian parting 27. Che and Cher, for 53. ___ up on (studies a conversation among the community, tics, sports, art, literature, science, 46. Slightly music, and much more. They never 47. Fall bloomers 3. One who's always on example intensively for) to promote change that will affect all of 49. ... sigma, ___, the go? 28. Hulled grain 54. Strain to recall? the community.’” shy away from word play either. upsilon ... 4. Cheerful-sounding 29. About 39 inches, in 55. German city hidden Instead of sharing research of her 51. "Who's Afraid of flowers, for short Britain in "United States own, she prefers to highlight the studies Virginia Woolf?" 5. Austin Powers's 31. Story trajectories Senate" "power" 32. Place explored by a 56. Some motor oil of her students, particularly those that playwright 56. Game hen 6. Business bigwig, speleologist additives engage not only on the Marist campus The answers to this alternative briefly 33. Make a string of 57. One-liner but also throughout Poughkeepsie. “De- 59. *Destroy paper 7. "___ and ye shall purls? 58. Neighbor of the spite our gender identities, what I’m in- edition's crossword will evidence, in short find" 34. Kind of bean radius 63. Lincoln Center's 8. Snakes in mentioned 59. Symbol on the terested in are decency and tolerance,” hieroglyphics memorably in "The Texas state flag Bayer said. “What are the experiences be posted on the Circle's Alice ___ Hall 64. Shipshape 9. Done dozing Silence of the 60. Bygone sound of people despite their gender identity? website on APRil 16th. 65. Yoko's relatives 10. *''Is it bigger than a Lambs" system There are women who participate in so- 66. Rose and coral hues ___?'' 35. Often-prewritten 61. Nutritional amts. ciety as a positive force and those who 67. Way out there 11. Setting for most of news article, for 62. Jane who married "Charlotte's Web" short Mr. Rochester operate as a negative force. What can I 17 • INSPIRING STUDENT VOICES EST. 1941 POUGHKEEPSIE, TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021 MARISTCIRCLE.COM MARIST CIRCLE ARTS & CULTURE Check The Fit: Fashion Student Parker Ahmad Looks Beyond the College

Parker Ahmad ’23 is actively working at making her name known in both the Marist and fashion community.

BY MATTHEW MORASKI time I did I wore four different shades Recently, her focus has been on Staff Writer of zebra print and my mom was like, sorority pieces and shirts for “big and ‘No.’” But around the fourth grade, she little week.” “Fashion allows people to bring started dressing herself and finding her “I had the opportunity to design the out the unique and special features of personal style. recruitment shirt for my sorority,” she themselves that may not otherwise be From then on, Ahmad elevated her said. The shirt, which would be worn portrayed.” style to represent who she is. Her for recruitment night, read “Ride with These are the words of Parker utilization of fashion to demonstrate Kappa.” Ahmad ‘23, who is actively working at a sense of self-expression elevates For Ahmad, this opportunity allows making her name known in both the the construct of what it means to be her brand to grow beyond social media; Marist and fashion communities. The an artist and fashion as a form of art. however, she understands that this aspiring fashion stylist and designer In her own words, fashion is self- opportunity is just the beginning. She from Bayshore, New York, looks to grow expression, but it is also an art: “It’s the hopes to expand her reach beyond her brand from a social media following exaggeration of what is ‘normal’ and college students and “move away from to a designer brand. brings it new meaning and new life.” the personalized stuff into an actual Whenever Ahmad walks into a Ahmad’s artistic expression through brand.” building, her look draws attention. fashion doesn’t end there: she also Parker Ahmad is the definition of Whether it is zebra printed pants with a designs original custom pieces. Since the saying “check the fit.” Her fashion watermelon green cropped sweater or July 2020, Ahmad has utilized her showcases her art and self-expression. an array of Carmel clothing pieces fitted Instagram account @styled.by.parker It is her true passion. with a light brown jacket, Ahmad’s style to promote the works she creates “My favorite thing is seeing people speaks for itself. Her eccentric style with for friends, family, college students wearing my clothing. It just makes me a flair of both a modern and vintage and even sororities. She boils down happy when I get to see my friends like twist comes from her upbringing. her style for her designs as “high- wearing my sweatshirt or wearing my “I was always into clothing, like end collegiate apparel,” with custom mask and t-shirts,” Ahmad said. She when I was little, playing dress up pieces like a college diamond hoodie said this joy of seeing her art and design 24/7,” Ahmad, a fashion merchandising and her lightning design hoodie. Over being worn and adored by others brings major with concentrations in product time, Ahmad has been able to evolve her art satisfaction and that people development and fashion promotion, her designs to capture people and “love it enough to wear it as often and said. “I wasn’t allowed to dress myself customers’ eyes through vibrant fonts post about it and be so open and be like, for school though, because the one in correlation with contrasting colors. ‘Oh yeah, my friend Parker made this.’” Parker wearing her design Diamond Hoodie, Photo Credit: Parker Ahmad Marist Fashion Silver Needle Runway Team Students Start Up New Plans for In-Person Annual Publication and Virtual Production A new annual magazine, Measure, will be a more inclusive publication that is scheduled to be distributed for the frst time this May

BY MADISON LISOWSKI Staff Writer rebuild fashion magazines at Marist was When you hear the word “measure,” a part of Meyer’s senior thesis project. you usually think of some sort of calcu- With the help of her professors, she was lation. Now, when hearing that word, able to create a book that would out- Marist students will think of a brand line each part of the magazine. Profes- new annual fashion magazine. Four se- sor Doori Chung planted the idea that niors and one junior created this new Marist needed a new outlet for fashion publication from scratch to be their leg- students, one that would be inclusive acy project at the college. and accessible to all, not just those in Charlotte Martin, the communica- the fashion program. Since then, the five tions and marketing director, Julia Mey- student directors have put their blood, er, the fashion director, Amanda Lauro, sweat and tears into bringing this to life. the art and design director, Juneve Por- Now, this will be a project that the ciello, the managing director and Nora students from the Fashion 290 and 490 Hogerty, the features editor are the five classes will produce each spring. Since hardworking composers for this major it takes an entire semester to get ev- project. They had all been members of ery bit of work done, this is what these The SNR 33 in Person Fashion Show, the last in person show before the the fashion program since day one, but courses will focus on in the future. pandemic. Photo Credit: Nicole Iuzzolino decided that there was a need for some Martin said that the first published change. issue of Measure “will be a legacy to BY NICOLE IUZZOLINO This will be the 35th SNR pro- tors to make sure everything runs “We recognized the need to have a leave behind because we are setting a A&C Editor duction, its second during a pan- smoothly. She was off to work the digital presence,” Martin said. One of new standard for what we measure up demic. Last spring, the produc- minute the production course be- the most important steps in this lengthy to at Marist.” The girls and others are With the spring semester com- tion quickly transitioned from an gan, creating Pinterest boards for process was building an online identi- hoping that this will be the new gen- mencing, and COVID-19 still ram- in-person show to a virtual format inspiration and looking up music ty. This includes multiple social media eration of FM/AM, which is a separate pant, an annual, highly-anticipated after the Marist campus shut down. to go along with the SNR theme, accounts, a website that would be easy fashion publication at Marist. Marist College production is un- With one online show down, this as well as creating the overall mes- to access during a pandemic and new Luckily, the girls haven’t been doing derway: the Silver Needle Runway. year’s fashion show production sage, characters and scenarios that designs and logos. all the work alone. They have gotten The team is preparing for a virtual class is working around the class will later be filmed and edited. Martin and her teammates also said extremely helpful student feedback show as well as an in-person pro- to keep the department’s tradition Kisilinsky and the rest of her that rebranding the idea of a fashion every time they have reached out for duction, set to take place on May alive. creative team have further ideas magazine was extremely relevant. assistance. Lauro said that she receives 22. “There really is such a big sense and concepts coming down the While the girls aspire to have this “at least twelve emails a day” between While the theme, “Illusion,” has of community,” Julia Kisilinsky pike, and they are ready to show magazine be “fun and inviting” for the model casting, hair and makeup and been announced, other details ‘22, a member of the SNR creative everyone what they have been students and staff at Marist, they also even writers looking to help out. about the logistics and location team, said. “We all bounce ideas off working on. wanted to show that this would be a As much time and effort that has have yet to be disclosed. According of each other, we critique one an- “All I am going to say is that ev- new generation for fashion in general. gone into the first issue, all of the di- to the show’s Instagram account, other, we comment, we praise, so it eryone should be prepared to look Lauro emphasized that this is “not rectors “would do it a thousand times “...this year it’s not just about the is really a nice way of getting affir- inward at themselves and see what only by Marist students but for Marist over.” garments. It’s about the people mation to be able to improve upon it is that they are putting out in the students” and is something that “soci- They are currently in their last month behind the designs and the faces your work and ideas and the whole world,” Kisilinsky said. “We are in ety demands of us in this era of change.” of work before they have to submit the behind the production...we are able creative process.” dire times right now and all that The girls worked to ensure an inclusive final draft to the publisher and distrib- to create a brand identity and dig As a creative writing assistant matters in kindness and just treat- and positive process, along with having ute it in May. This will be a publication below the surface of the glamorous for SNR, it is Kisilinskys’ job to put ing people with respect...I think it every aspect of their first issue stu- to look forward to at the end of each life the fashion industry projects. together a storyline for the pro- is safe today that this will be our dent-run –– every model, photographer, school year for years to come. There is more to a fashion show duction, while working with 10 most creative show and produc- designer, set producer and contributor. “Looking back, there have been so than what meets the eye.” other team members and direc- tion we have had thus far.” Doing this is helping Measure connect many hours put into this, but I think more to its audience. that seeing the finished product will The idea to completely rebrand and make it all worth it,” Hogerty says. 18 • INSPIRING STUDENT VOICES EST. 1941 POUGHKEEPSIE, TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021 MARISTCIRCLE.COM MARIST CIRCLE ARTS & CULTURE From London to the Hudson Valley: COVID-19 Safe Activities to do A Musician’s Passion for the Arts Off Campus BY NICOLE IUZZOLINO BY BROOKE SHAMON A&C Editor Staff Writer Warm weather is quickly approaching and, Pete Santora is no stranger to performing. unfortunately, COVID-19 remains a threat. From Broadway to films and television, to play- While we all hope for surges to disappear, col- ing his own music around the Hudson Valley, lege students are looking for opportunities to Santora has followed every one of his passions. make the most out of the semester. Many op- Originally from the Bronx, Santora signed tions already exist on campus like trips to the his first record deal at just 16 years old while river, a run or walk with your housemates/pod hanging out at a record store with his band- or a drive through the campus community, win- mates. “I was fortunate enough to get into a dows down and radio up. band in the Bronx, which was the best band However, if you are up for a change of scen- in the Bronx due to the lead guitarist and the ery, there’s a variety of activities to do off cam- drummer … the rhythm guitar guy left and so pus safely. Students can go to the Walkway over they needed somebody and I auditioned for the Hudson located right in Poughkeepsie, or them and they took me in.” enjoy a picnic outside the Vanderbilt Mansion, Upon signing with Mercury Records, the in Rhinebeck, or in Mesier Park in Wappingers band opened up for artists such as Lesley Gore, Falls. known for the hit song “It’s My Party,” as well Besides picnics and the walkway, the Hudson as Buffy Sainte-Marie, an Indigenous Canadi- Valley is a home to numerous hiking trails that an-American singer and songwriter. “It’s excit- are perfect for the springtime. Some of these ing at 16 to do that and I guess here I got bitten hiking spots include: by the bug.” This “bug” led him to his next venture: mu- • Wappinger Creek Greenway Trail; sical theatre. Poughkeepsie, NY In 1977, Santora was given the opportunity • Roosevelt Farm Lane Trail; Hyde Park, NY to perform in the Original Broadway produc- • Winnakee Nature Preserve; Hygge Park, NY tion of “Beatlemania,” where he portrayed one Pete Santora has hopes of getting back on the stage soon, to prefrom his latest album • River-to-Ridge Trail; New Paltz, NY of his personal heroes, George Harrison. San- “RePeteing The Beatles,” Photo from petesantora.com tora performed with the original production Doing the best we can for the community nationally as well as internationally, where he was still able to get music out to an audience. track and doing the performing they love to do around us is the most important thing to re- was able to perform in London and meet Paul This is when the recording and the ideas for his just as much as I do.” member. Find safe activities to do to fill up your McCartney. own version of the Beatles’ music began. When the pandemic began, Santora nev- day; have a book unrelated to school that you In addition to “Beatlemania,” Santora also Santora recorded 14 songs, consisting of a er thought he would live to see the day that have been wanting to finish? Now is the time appeared in musicals such as “42nd Street” variety of tracks from different time frames Broadway would close down. To him, it felt to pick it up and read it! In need of some mo- and “Hey Jude.” Off the stage, he can also be of the Beatles’ career, all recorded during the like, “there is no more sun today or for the rest tivation to workout but disappointed in the seen in the blockbuster films, “Goodfellas,” pandemic. The album, which was released this of the year.” With musical theatre having such gym closure? Go on YouTube and find your next “Prizzi’s Honor,” “Godfather 3” and numerous year, is titled “RePeteing The Beatles.” a special place in his heart, it hurt to see the free workout program obsession. Some recom- episodes of “Law and Order.” In total, Santora recorded 30 songs, origi- stages he once performed on so empty. mended workout channels are: Madfit, Chloe After many years of playing the Beatles’ nals and covers, during the past year. But Santora is starting to see a light at the Ting, BullyJuice and Jordan Yeoh Fitness. music on the Broadway stage, he decided to re- However, even with the new album, end of the tunnel, as little by little, musicians I believe the Marist community, as well as cord the songs his way: “I figured if I am going COVID-19 has created many obstacles for San- are able to get back out and perform: “It’s every other student globally, can agree that this to tackle something, let me tackle the greatest tora as well as other musicians in the Hudson great to see that you can’t keep artists down. was not how many imagined “the best years of group in the world.” Valley. “With the way that business has been It’s from the heart, it’s from the soul and that’s our lives,” would go. Making the most out of it, During the months of being locked indoors, going, making money in the music business is really what makes it. It’s not so much about however, is the best we can all do right now. Santora focused on his songwriting and up- very difficult, but I am hoping and a lot of peo- the money...it’s really a labor of love with mu- loaded many of his songs to YouTube. While in ple are hoping that when this thing breaks, the sicians.” his eyes it wasn’t the same as performing, he acts will be getting back in and getting back on The Hudson Valley’s Million-Dollar Film Industry is Coming Back to Life

What upcoming flms to look out for in the Hudson Valley

BY HATTIE FOSTER However, due to the COVID-19 pan- Staff Writer demic, many productions had to be can- celled or put on hold. As a result of this, The Hudson Valley is home to many the Hudson Valley felt the loss of the small businesses, local eateries, gal- film industry. The film industry alone leries, vacation spots and small towns, has given “more than $250 million” to many of which have been featured the Hudson Valley economy, The New in many blockbuster movies and hit York Times reported. Last year before shows. There have been 146 films shot the pandemic halted everything, the re- in Poughkeepsie alone. gion saw a profit of $46 million. Due to the amazing scenery the Hud- This money helps to keep many of son Valley holds, towns like Beacon, these small towns running. It goes to New Paltz, and Pawling are all location local schools, improvement of town sites for the movie “A Quiet Place” which infrastructure, hotels and even local was released in 2018. In Beacon, not far businesses. While the Hudson Valley from Marist, you can even visit some suffered a devastating loss, production of the sites such as the Beacon Natural has begun picking up again. Market, which made an appearance in Upcoming films like “Severance,” a the 2018 hit film. new Apple TV series directed by Ben BlacKkKlansman, another 2018 film, Stiller recently shot in Beacon. features many scenes that were shot in “The White House Plumbers” is an Ossining. It might be hard to imagine HBO film which covers a White House that such small towns play such a big investigation unit whose members role in major movies, yet many direc- ended up getting involved in illegal tors find the Hudson Valley to be a great business such as the infamous Water- place to film. According to the Hudson gate Scandal. This film will star Woody Valley Lodging, “The Hudson Valley ap- Harrelson and scenes will be shot in the peals to film crews and writers because region in May, with Poughkeepsie being it’s a blend of architecture ranging from one of the main location sites. small-town Norman Rockwell houses to The Hudson Valley film industry is historic mansions, with a mix of small surely but slowly coming back to life, cities, river townships, rural country and new and exciting projects are on The upcoming flm Severeance will be flmed right in Beacon New York. Photo Credit: Creative living to luxury estates it offers a broad the way. Commons:”Beacon, New York” by Dougtone is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 appeal.” 19 • INSPIRING STUDENT VOICES EST. 1941 POUGHKEEPSIE, TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021 MARISTCIRCLE.COM MARIST CIRCLE ARTS & CULTURE Stevens Finds Release in Fine Arts A Look Into the Life of Marist Student Artist Bridget Stevens

was wrong because I was painting two was always willing to help, and her class separate pictures at the same time.” truly helped me explore the types of art Stevens studies Fine Arts at Marist and artists that I use as inspiration for College, with a concentration in Studio my artwork today.” Art and Art History, and a minor in Art has always been an outlet for Photography. She initially came to Stevens. “Anytime I would have a rough Marist with the intention of studying day at school, I would come home Graphic Design, but after taking a and paint for hours. Art is my way painting class at Marist, she instantly of exerting my energy and feelings. fell in love with the freedom of exploring Without it, I honestly don’t know where different types of art techniques- such I would be today.” Music has also greatly as drawing, painting, photography and contributed to her art, as it keeps her more. motivated and inspired. Some of her As a child, Stevens and her family past artworks have been based on the would travel often, where she spent music she had been listening to in that BY MIA COMPOSTO much of her time visiting art galleries moment. A lot of her artwork includes Staff Writer and museums: “Seeing the artworks by elements of plants, animals and nature. For as long as she can remember, these amazing artists instantly made Stevens aspires to become an art Bridget Stevens ‘23 of Norwalk, me want to be like them.” Before coming teacher for high school students: “While Connecticut has always had a passion to Marist, Stevens was intimated by art I was in high school, I had an art teacher for art. “My earliest memory of history, but that soon changed after that pushed me to explore different becoming involved in art was in taking History of Western Art II with one areas of art. He was always really preschool. I got in trouble for painting of her favorite professors, Lois Walsh- supportive, and I looked up to him as on two easels at the same time because Gallina. “Professor Walsh-Gallina was a role model. After taking classes with I was ambidextrous as a kid,” Stevens able to make the material enjoyable and him for four years, I instantly knew that said. “My teachers thought something not feel like work. She was so nice and I wanted to be like him.”

Bridget Stevens includes many elements of plants, animals and nature in her art. Photo Credit Bridget Stevens, ‘23 “Art is my way of exerting my energy and feelings.” — Bridget Stevens ‘23

Demi Lovato’s ‘Dancing with the Devil’ Her Struggle with Addiction, and How Marist Students Can Get Help

BY AMANDA DIBRE to her current journey with recovery, This series highlights the impact of more minutes to live. Despite defying themselves. Staff Writer “Dancing with the Devil” gave an honest substance and alcohol abuse, not only those odds, Lovato still lives with the Whether it be anxiety, substance look into some of the most difficult on Lovato, but her friends and family repercussions of her mistakes. abuse or just needing someone to talk Demi Lovato’s new YouTube- times in Lovato’s life. as well. The night of her overdose, she “I suffered brain damage from the to, Marist offers counseling services for exclusive docuseries “Dancing with Released on March 23, this series had smoked heroin and taken fentanyl- strokes. I can’t drive anymore and those seeking professional help. the Devil” revealed her struggles with uploaded new episodes weekly and laced oxycodone. After suffering three I have blind spots in my vision so “People tend to think that it’s only alcohol and substance abuse, as well hopefully provides others with the strokes and a heart attack, the doctors sometimes when I go to pour a glass of a select population or a select few, but as eating disorders. From her near- courage to change their lives. told her she only had about five to ten water, I’ll totally miss the cup because I the truth is that we all have mental fatal overdose in the summer of 2018 can’t see it anymore,” Lovato said. health or wellness,” Dr. Marisa Moore, Lovato also revealed that on the interim director of counseling services night of her overdose she was sexually at Marist, said. “We all experience assaulted by her drug dealer who anxiousness or depressive symptoms or provided her with the substances that reactions to what’s happening around almost killed her. us. And so when we offer services it’s “What people don’t realize about been important to us to always try that night for me is I wasn’t, I didn’t just to advertise that it’s for everyone... overdose. I was also taken advantage Sometimes people think ‘my stuff isn’t of,” Lovato said. “When they found me, I that bad,’ but the truth is, we all benefit was naked. I was blue. I was literally left from having someone neutral to talk to for dead after he took advantage of me.” that is going to support and encourage At only 28 years old, Lovato has been us.” struggling with addiction and eating Although COVID-19 means that disorders for a long time, but she is not people cannot meet in person, Marist alone. Many teenagers and young adults has been utilizing Telehealth and suffer from alcohol and substance Teletherapy. Open clinics have also abuse. According to the National recently been put into place for college Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, “9/10 students who have a busy schedule and individuals who abuse nicotine, alcohol need immediate access to counseling. or other drugs began using these This service is offered from Monday substances before the age of 18. People to Friday 1pm to 3:30pm. Crisis who began using addictive substances services are also available for students before age 15 are 7 times more likely experiencing an emergency after hours. to develop a substance problem than If you or someone you know is those who first use after age 21.” struggling with substance abuse, please Lovato emphasized that recovery seek help by contacting Substance is not the same for everyone and Abuse and Mental Health Services that a person cannot get sober for Administration (SAMHSA) 1-800-662- In Demi Lovato’s Youtube docuseries, Lovato opened about her struggles with alcohol other people –– they have to do it for HELP (4357). and substance abuse, as well as eating disorders. Photo Credit: Creative Commons: “Demi Lovato @ Citibank Hall - SP” by Portal Focka is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0 20 • INSPIRING STUDENT VOICES EST. 1941 POUGHKEEPSIE, TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021 MARISTCIRCLE.COM

Former Marist Football Player Allegedly Had Pattern of Domestic Violence

Marist Assistant Athletic Director and gas from campus. The petition, which [the student] still two days later cannot in another way. BY DAVE CONNELLY, BRIDGET football Sports Information Director included images of threatening and stand on it, and she continues to have “I can assure you, this team cares REILLY, SAM DIGIOVANNI, Mike Ferraro had no comment after a abusive messages reportedly sent by trouble walking. Her right arm hurts to DEEPLY about this issue, and immedi- JONATHAN KINANE, request from Center Field. Vargas to the alleged victim, received move, and she has a bruise on her chest ately following the post on social media, MACKENZIE MEANEY, & It was not the first altercation be- over 21,000 signatures as of Monday where he threw a phone at her.” I heard from several who want to DO NICHOLAS STANZIALE tween the couple, she said. night and described the alleged vio- An Instagram post about the peti- SOMETHING to let our campus commu- “There was one night prior to the lence Vargas inflicted: tion rapidly circulated that evening and nity know where they stand,” Gates told On Sunday, March 28, then-Marist incident on January 30, we had gotten “He beat her right thigh so bad that into the next day. Hundreds of Marist Center Field in an email. College football player Bryan Vargas students, including several football Emma Boyce, the first alleged vic- physically and verbally abused and teammates of Vargas, shared the post tim’s friend for more than seven years, threatened a 19-year-old Marist fresh- on their Instagram stories and relayed shared a variety of text messages with man, according to the alleged victim’s their disgust towards the purported Center Field that she says were sent be- cousin. A court date is in place for “The reason why abuser. tween Vargas and his alleged victim on Wednesday, April 7 at 9:00 a.m. in Hack- Ferraro said, “We cannot comment Instagram. She said their understand- ensack, NJ, between Vargas and the vic- on the specifics of the case but we con- ing was that it was not physical abuse tim for her to plead for a temporary re- that night ended so demn any act of violence.” until Sunday night. However, the abuse straining order to be made permanent. Marist Athletics shared a post on “has always been verbal and with the Center Field was unable to contact badly is because Thursday, addressing domestic violence things he’s said to her.” Vargas. His lawyer told News 12 that allegations. Director of Student-Athlete “I’ve been on FaceTime calls with her he had no comment on the allegations. Enhancement Alyssa Gates told Center and he would call during them and if The Hackensack Police Department I have tried to tell Field that every April, except last year, she didn’t pick up right away he would and court were also contacted but no the football team and staff marched in blow up on her and say terrible things,” response was given after a request for people, and no one the White Ribbon Campaign — a world- Boyce told Center Field. “That night I comment. wide event that “works to end violence found out what happened and contact- Center Field is withholding the al- against women and girls.” The team ed her cousin ASAP and her cousin went leged victim’s name. She did not re- believed me.” will not be able to march this year due home to [the student] and called the spond to a request for comment. to COVID protocols. However, there are cops. She went to the hospital because The allegations against Vargas, a — Anonymous Victim plans to participate in this year’s event she couldn’t walk on her leg at all.” redshirt freshman defensive back, first surfaced on Facebook on the afternoon of Tuesday, March 30, when the alleged victim’s uncle left a comment beneath a into an argument, and we were walking Marist Athletics post accusing Vargas. on the campus green, and he punched An uproar followed within the Marist me in my stomach,” the second victim community on social media. Vargas was said. “He slapped me a few times. And removed from the football team’s online I remember I tried to run away and he roster on Tuesday night. By Wednes- grabbed me, and I fell to the floor. And day, Vargas was no longer a student then he picks me back up and he started at Marist College. Vice President for to shake me, like, clearly aggressively,” Student Affairs Deborah DiCaprio an- said the second victim. “He literally just nounced in a memo to the student body ripped the entire sleeve of my jacket that “as of this afternoon, the student off.” accused of the assault is no longer a But after his suspension, Vargas be- student at Marist College.” Center Field gan blackmailing the second victim, she has learned that the student in question said. According to Segall, he threatened was Vargas. to send personal photos of the second After contacting the police, the al- victim to her parents. Scared, the sec- leged victim gained a temporary re- ond victim decided not to report the straining order against Vargas. case to campus authorities. This past week, Center Field was told “The emotional and mental stuff — that this was not the first time Vargas that type of abuse was almost every allegedly abused someone at Marist. day, every single day,” the second victim During the 2019-20 school year, a said. second victim, who wishes to remain “At this point, because of the alle- anonymous but whose account Center gations against him, he basically told Field has confirmed with two contem- me that if I didn’t clear the situation, it poraneous witnesses, was physically, would end really badly for me and my verbally, and emotionally abused in friends,” said the second victim. “So, af- an eight-month-long relationship with ter meeting with [the] Title IX [office], I Vargas, she said. basically told them that it was just a big “He would pick me up and throw misunderstanding. And when he was me onto the bed, hold me down by my back on the football team, everything upper arm and just yell in my face and was basically cleared up.” to the point where he was spitting,” the “Bryan is probably laughing at this alleged second victim told Center Field. situation as we speak,” Segall said. “He got so angry that he punched a hole “He has no regard for these women into his dorm room wall.” — they’re only looked at as punching On the night of January 30, 2020, the bags.” anonymous victim and Vargas fought Despite the restraining order, Vargas outside of Champagnat Hall. Vargas lived next door to Segall in Conklin Hall stole her laptop but denied it, according in the fall 2020 semester. Segall contact- to witnesses Sahira Magnus, Skylar Se- ed Marist about the situation and she gall, and the victim. When Vargas called says she was told that she had to move several friends, the dispute escalated. out, not Vargas. “The reason why that night ended so “He was really just an abusive per- badly is because I have tried to tell peo- son,” said Magnus. “He was manipu- ple, and no one believed me,” said the lative. We were all just threatened be- second victim. cause of him.” Center Field has learned that a video The relationship between the victim exists of this incident, showing Vargas and Vargas eventually ended. In another verbally abusing and threatening the situation, when the victim was scared of second victim outside of Champagnat Vargas’s actions, she called his mom. Hall. “Bryan’s mom told me that she was Marist Security came to the scene as very sorry, and that I should press the second victim fainted and showed charges,” said the second victim. The bruises on her arm. After Marist learned mother told her about yet another girl, of the events of that night, the school before adding, “‘He did the same thing issued on-campus restraining orders to her.’” between Vargas and the victim, as well In Tuesday’s Facebook allegation, in as Segall, according to several sources. a comment under a post from Marist Following the incident, both witness- Athletics announcing the football es stated that Vargas served a one-week team’s future game against Army West suspension from the football team. Point, the victim’s uncle pleaded for ac- DiCaprio declined to confirm the tion. The victim was sent to the hospi- suspension, citing privacy protections tal, according to the post. under FERPA law. Assistant Dean for On Tuesday evening, Sandra Bellu- Student Affairs Matthew McMahon was From left to right: Jamal Valentin ‘21, Dazhon Miller ‘21 and Teddy Wright ‘21, members of the Marist football ardo created a petition on Change.org prevented from talking by the same law. team who came to support the Marist Stand Up Speak Out demonstration on April 7. Photo by Julia Feigus ‘21 demanding that the college remove Var- 21 • INSPIRING STUDENT VOICES EST. 1941 POUGHKEEPSIE, TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021 MARISTCIRCLE.COM From Memphis to Marist

BY IAN DORSEY on their roster. “The one thing we were to be fair, and open and honest,” said to come do,” said Enoh. “Which was just a hard worker and relishing in his op- Center Field Contributor missing was brute force, someone who Dunne. “You’re going to play for a staff, play hard, get rebounds, hit jump hooks, portunities at this level.” It takes more can challenge [redshirt senior center] not just myself, that cares about you and that’s all I really wanted.” than just impressive size to be success- As Marist took on Quinnipiac Uni- Jordan Jones in practice, and the differ- as a person and will push you to reach More than just his physical presence ful in Dunne’s system. versity for the second straight night, a ent body type as well,” said Clement. your potential.” and style of play, both coaches Dunne Coach Clement described Enoh’s 6-foot-8 pair of reflective, metallic avia- The team’s three centers, Enoh, se- transition to Marist as seamless. Enoh tors sat in the stands, studying the floor, nior Zion Tordoff, and Jones, all supply became a sponge the moment he supporting his teammates, and waiting unique skills and provide a variety of stepped onto campus for the first time once again for his opportunity to com- uses to the lineup, giving Marist the during that summer. “He was very low pete. This wasn’t how he imagined his chance to compete with every team in maintenance,” said Clement. “And that first season as a Red Fox. the MAAC and even higher ranked pro- was one thing that we really appreciat- When John Dunne took over the grams around the country. ed about him.” Marist men’s basketball team as head Before transferring to Marist in the Enoh’s first time at Marist came be- coach three years ago, his first objec- summer of 2019, Enoh played for two fore his first semester got under way. tive was to change the culture that had years at the University of Memphis. That summer, his teammates toured been plaguing the team for so many Former coach Tubby Smith ran a simi- him around campus, giving him the years. Dunne, who has had success in lar system to what Enoh had been used rundown of life as a Red Fox, and Enoh the MAAC before coming to Marist, to in high school, which ultimately led immediately felt comfortable in his new quickly brought in players that he felt to his committing to the Tigers. “It was environment. “I love the campus and I embodied the system he wanted to put almost the same system,” said Enoh. love the atmosphere,” he said. in place. “When he left, that’s when I started It didn’t take long for Enoh to get “From day one, we just wanted to in- thinking of transferring.” The Memphis adjusted to his new team either. The still a culture where we were going to program was left in the hands of coach team had been working out together compete,” said Dunne. “We just wanted Penny Hardaway. before practices officially started, so to be competitive.” After years of unsuc- Coach Clement first heard about chemistry was not hard to build. “The cessful seasons prior to Dunne’s hiring, Enoh and his possible departure from first full practice was pretty fun,” said the goal of the new coaching staff was Memphis from trustworthy sources in Enoh. “There was a lot of energy in the to bring in players that were coachable Georgia that had previously coached building.” He felt they instantly gelled and hungry to win games. the center. “He could have a great op- as a group, although it did take a little Enter: our towering pair of sun- portunity being in a Marist Red Fox longer to get to know the man he’d be glasses. Redshirt junior Victor Enoh, a jersey,” Clement thought after first guarding in practice, Jordan Jones. soft-spoken, powerful big man, was one watching Enoh’s game tape. The assis- In his first season with the Red Fox- of the key pieces that Dunne brought in tant coach knew that Enoh’s 12–15-foot es, Enoh played 16 games averaging to build this new, competitive culture. shot would fit right into the Red Fox 3.9 points and 5.1 rebounds, shooting Originally from Decatur, Georgia, offense. an efficient 58 percent from the field. Enoh was a three-star recruit com- When it comes to recruiting the right He played just over 18 minutes a game, ing out of high school and caught the players from around the country, Dunne serving a crucial role in Marist’s most attention of some of the nation’s top compared the process to the Wild West, successful season since the late 2000’s. basketball programs, including Vander- “There are 1,200 players in the trans- Unfortunately for Enoh and his team- fer portal every year now and the old mates, the center suffered a torn MCL, bilt, Kansas State, and Oklahoma State. Victor Enoh’s journey to becoming a Red Fox was a seamless transition for way of recruiting is gone,” said Dunne. cutting his season short. Enoh under- “Around tenth grade I started getting both the former Memphis Tiger and the coaching staff. Photo courtesy of “I think you have to keep every avenue went surgery in late February and was looks from schools,” said Enoh. “That’s Marist College Athletics when I knew I could play basketball at open, high school, prep school, junior looking forward to beginning his reha- the next level.” It is not hard to see what college, transfer. The goal is still to find bilitation process so he can get back on he brings to the table at 230 pounds. good character guys.” These were some of the messages and Clement could not speak more the floor as soon as possible. He was His size was ‘the missing piece’ that Dunne makes sure that all of his re- that made Enoh feel that Marist was highly of Enoh’s character. “He fit right excited to log more hours playing with coach Dunne and assistant coach Serge cruits understand the type of staff they the best place for him to continue his in because of his high character and his his teammates, building chemistry, and Clement, who handles much of the re- will be playing for. “We tell them when basketball career. “The coaching staff ability to be succinct with what’s going continuing to improve as a unit. cruitment for the team, felt they needed we’re recruiting them that we’re going at Marist told me what they wanted me on,” said Clement. “He’s a good kid, he’s Marist Football to Face First FBS Opponent in 2025

BY SAM DIGIOVANNI against the highest level. This will help us as we Center Field Contributor talk about where the program is going, being able to play an FBS school for the first time.” Marist football is scheduled to play Army Army, coached by Jeff Monken, has recorded West Point, its first FBS (Football Bowl Sub- winning seasons in four of the last five years. division) opponent in school history, in 2025, Last season’s team ranked as high as 22 in the Marist Athletics said in a statement on Tuesday AP poll and earned a berth in the Liberty Bowl, morning. The Red Foxes will travel 30 miles where they lost to West Virginia. Army has won south to Michie Stadium to face Army on Sep- four bowl games since 2000 – the Armed Forc- tember 13, 2025. es Bowl in 2018, 2017 and 2010 and the Heart “Any opportunity for our student-athletes of Dallas Bowl in 2016. The program won three to play against West Point is cherished,” Marist national championships from 1944 to 1946. Director of Athletics Tim Murray said. “We have Marist football has not recorded a winning the utmost respect for the United States Mili- season since 2013. They last played in 2019, tary Academy and its athletics program. This going 4-7 overall and 4-4 against conference is a great opportunity for our student-athletes, opponents. The Red Foxes have won five total and a building block for our football program.” Pioneer Football League titles and three since Marist head coach Jim Parady said the follow- 2000 in 2006, 2007 and 2013. ing in the statement: Marist and Army have faced each other in “This is an exciting game for our players, other sports — both men’s and women’s — in alumni, and everyone associated with the the past, such as basketball, tennis, and la- Marist football program. We’ve admired the crosse. They last faced off this past December Army program and all of its success for a long in women’s basketball. Marist opened their sea- time. It’s a great opportunity to play against a son with a convincing 83-55 win. The Red Foxes storied program right here in the Hudson Val- most famous victory in recent memory came in Marist will face off against Hudson River rivals Army in 2025. Pho- ley. With recruiting, everyone wants to compete February of 2020, when they defeated national- to courtesy of Marist College Athletics ly ranked Army 17-9 in lacrosse. POUGHKEEPSIE, TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021

22 • INSPIRING STUDENT VOICES EST. 1941 POUGHKEEPSIE, TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021 MARISTCIRCLE.COM A Leader in the Making

BY CONNER KURPAT you feel about all these events that have dren in the local community. As Kennedy was hoping, she benefit- Kennedy has also looked to assistant Center Field Contributor been coming up,’” Kennedy said. “And “We’ve got a lot of things planned ted from her dedication and extra hours coaches Maggie Gallagher and Britta- it’s a hard thing to think about because and a lot of things in our head,” Kenne- in the gym. In the 2020-2021 season, ny Parker for guidance. Gallagher, who It was a rainy, end-of-summer day on we didn’t know who we had or who dy said. “We hope we can make an im- Kennedy is second on the team in total played for Marist from 2011 to 2015, September 2, 2020. Normally, this type we could talk to. So, we had this zoom pact and even step outside of the Marist points scored with 175 and is tied for has put in extra hours to teach Kenne- of weather would keep the students at call to talk about starting the Black Stu- community because there are so many first in total three-pointers made with dy some of the game’s intricacies and Marist College in their dorms, leaving dent-Athlete Alliance together and we kids out there who need us and need 28. She’s also been able to contribute mold her into a talented, versatile play- only the sound of raindrops and tires figured that this was something we kind someone to look up to, and we need to tremendously on the defensive side of er. Parker, who Kennedy has credited splashing puddles to disturb the qui- of had to get done because if we want- be those types of role models.” the ball, ranking second on the team in as a role model in her life at Marist, has et college campus. Instead, the foggy, ed to start making an impact, we had to With Kennedy making such an im- steals with 22 and fifth in total rebounds helped Kennedy with her role as the wet grounds of the college were filled start now.” pact on campus and taking on this with 57. Compare these numbers to last co-president of the BSAA. with the roars of pro- major leadership role, one year, where she was only able to put “It’s really important to me that I test, as students and might expect her to be up 53 points, seven three-pointers, 12 have coach Parker because she is one community members a senior captain on the steals, and 15 total rebounds. of the few black, female role models marched across the basketball team. One who Kennedy’s improvements have led that I have at Marist,” Kennedy said. Marist campus in re- “There are so many leads her players through to a major uptick in time spent on the “And Maggie, too. They’ve always really sponse to the death of the most difficult times court, as she now starts every game played a huge role in keeping me sane.” Jacob Blake, who was kids out there who of the season. Well, that’s and averages 30. They have also been a Surrounding herself with people like shot multiple times not the case. Kennedy is large reason why Marist has been able Gallagher, Parker, and Best has been a by a police officer in only a sophomore, and to find so much success in a season key factor for Kennedy’s development Kenosha, Wisconsin a need us and need she is just beginning to where many questioned the team’s abil- in such a short time. few weeks earlier. find her potential. ity to win after losing so many valuable “The people that you let into your One of the leaders someone to look up Kennedy, like all oth- players. circle can either build you up or bring of this march was Tri- er freshmen, came to “Trinasia has been one of the main you down, and I think I’ve done a good nasia Kennedy, a mem- Marist timid and not too reasons why we have had the success job of having people in my circle that ber of the Marist wom- to, and we need to confident in her abilities. that we’ve had this year after graduat- push me to be creative and change the en’s basketball team And, of course, making ing so many outstanding seniors,” head narrative of what I’ve been through and and the co-president of be those types of the transition from high coach Brian Giorgis said. “Her jump where I’ve come from,” Kennedy said. the Black Student-Ath- school-level athletics to from a timid freshman to a confident, “They push me to be the best person I lete Alliance (BSAA). collegiate-level athletics assertive starter has been one of the can be.” Kennedy, along with role models.” didn’t make things any greatest improvements from one year Kennedy has only begun to scratch other board members, easier. to another in my 19-year tenure.” the surface of the person, player, and including co-president — Trinasia Kennedy ‘21 “Freshman year, I felt Kennedy is a starter now and has leader that she can be, and there is no Arthur Pickney and I was focused on all of grown as a scorer and a defensive pres- doubt that the people around her will vice president Chidera the wrong things, which ence. But there is one more part of her push Kennedy to reach her true poten- Udeh, had only recent- made it hard to develop game that she wants to improve. An tial. And with the 2020-2021 season ly started the BSAA over the summer That intended impact has certainly my shot and become more versatile,” area that she has already begun to mas- nearing its end, Kennedy will have the of 2020, amidst the protests over the begun, as the BSAA has already partak- Kennedy said. “And it was really hard ter off the court: leadership. chance to take what she has learned in deaths of George Floyd, Brianna Taylor, en in another march in late September for me because I didn’t play a lot. In “I’ve been working a lot on my lead- her breakout season and apply it to her and Ahmad Aubrey. and hosted a town hall in the last days high school, you play a lot of minutes. ership almost as much as I work on my offseason training. She’ll also take the “After everything had happened, we of October. Kennedy hopes to have more But you get to had a Zoom call with all of the black stu- events in the future to spark conversa- college you know dent-athletes and we were like, ‘How do tion, as well as hosting events for chil- you aren’t going to play as many minutes. But it doesn’t hit you until you’ve gone a full season without playing.” MEET THE In the 2019- 2020 season, Kennedy only Editorial TEAM averaged a little over six minutes a game and she Editor-in-Chief Arts & Culture Editor didn’t get to start SARAH LYNCH NICOLE IUZZOLINO in any of the 26 games that sea- Managing Editor Chief of Graphic Design son. She knew, though, that she GRACE MAEDA SYDNEY KYSAR would have to step up in her Creative Director Graphic Designer sophomore year, JANINE PULTORAK MAGGIE MANSFIELD as star players Rebekah Hand, CARLY ANDREW Grace Vander Marketing Director SANDRA ANTONIUK Weide, and Ala- PAISLEY HADDAD GABI MAYNARD na Gilmer would NIKKI BADURIA all be graduating after the end of Multimedia Director JULIA GRANGER the 2020 spring LAURYN STARKE semester. So, to City/National better her game, Campus News Editor News Editor Kennedy took time before and GRETA STUCKEY DANIELLE SICA after practice to work on her abil- Opinion Editor Faculty Advisor ity to shoot from ALEXIS COLUCCI KATHLEEN MCNULTY range and she dedicated count- less hours to Features Editor Sports Editor/ watching game MAKENA GERA CF Swing Editor tape of herself MAX SMITH and her oppo- nents. Kennedy hopes to have more events in the future to spark conversation, as well “I’m a great as hosting events for children in the local community. Photo by Mike Cahill Marist Circle strives to present all information driver and I’m fairly & accurately. If we have made an error, great at attack- ing the rim but I knew that, if I worked game because I know that my game can lessons that she has learned from her please contact us at: [email protected] on developing my shot, it would make take me a lot of places,” Kennedy said. first year as co-president of the BSAA it harder for other teams to guard me “And I watch and learn from Allie all and apply it to the expansion of the and that would help the team,” Kennedy the time because Allie is very vocal. So, voice and role of the Black Student-Ath- CONTACT US said. “And I work really hard. I work out that’s a part of my game that I think is lete on the Marist campus and in the before practice. I work out after prac- going to the next level.” neighboring communities. [email protected] tice. And I try to invest all of the time As Kennedy said, senior point guard So, don’t be surprised if you hear that we don’t have together or when I’m and captain Allie Best has played a ma- Kennedy’s name more often, whether it maristcircle.com not on the court in a lot of film, and film jor role in her development as a player be on the front page of the local news- @maristcircle of myself especially. I look at what I did and as a future leader, as Best has been paper or over the speakers of the Mc- well last year, what I didn’t do well, and a shining example of what it means to Cann Arena. how can I make that better.” be a leader on the court. POUGHKEEPSIE, TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021

23 • INSPIRING STUDENT VOICES EST. 1941 POUGHKEEPSIE, TUESDAY, APRIL 13, 2021 MARISTCIRCLE.COM

Fifth Year Athletes See the Extra Year as an Extra Edge in the Job Market

An extra year of eligibility might have set graduating athletes’ career prospects back. Instead, it may give them a leg-up.

BY BRIDGET REILLY Campus News Contributor

March 13, 2020, was a busy day in McCann Arena at Marist College. There was a chilling silence, yet quick footsteps and muffled voices could be heard from several rooms and hallways. The NCAA canceled spring sports and for the seniors, their last year and season flashed before their eyes. It was there, and then nothing. Marist softball outfielder Ali Mi- lam was packed and on her way to take a bus to the airport to fly off to Florida with her team for spring break. Suddenly, she was not boarding the bus, but waiting in the Hall of Fame room for a sponta- neous team meeting to begin. Sitting across the hall and a lit- tle way down was Marist men’s lacrosse midfielder Jon Constant, in the locker room with his team- mates hearing the season update. Devastated, all he could think of was the lost opportunity to play for a MAAC Championship. In a sep- arate locker room, Samantha Me- halick, a Marist women’s lacrosse attacker, was victim to another sur- prise meeting. “We were all just at a loss for words,” said Mehalick. “We just sat in the locker room in silence. We were just like, “‘What do we do now?” After the cancelation of the spring sports seasons, the NCAA offered all seniors in the class of 2020 an extra year of eligibility. An extra year of one thing that they have come to always count on. How could they pass that up? The Class of 2020 began their se- nior year at a record-low national unemployment rate of 3.7 percent. In an April 2020 survey conducted by Student Loan Hero, 72 percent of graduating seniors reported that the Covid-19 crisis had already im- pacted their post-graduation plans, along with 28 percent of students After the cancelation of thespring sports seasons, the NCAA offered all seniors in the class of 2020 an extra year of eligibility. Photo by Riley Griffn saying they’re changing their ca- reer path due to the pandemic. At the time, Milam, Constant, and could see the reality of the pan- needed 30 more credits to be eligi- mediate and panicked, no. “I was coronavirus-wise, we’re, like, a lit- Mehalick did not have post-grad- demic, especially at the cancelation ble for the CPA exam. This is taken like, ‘[coach] Joe [Ausanio], I can’t tle bit past it,” said Mehalick. “Time uation plans set in stone. After of fall sports. by those who wish to become U.S. go to grad school, like, I got through here is huge, and for me personally, consulting with teammates, fami- There are a limited number of Certified Public Accountants. Con- my senior year. I don’t think I could I’m very lucky and happy that I did ly, and coaches, they all decided to graduate programs at Marist as stant will be finishing the credits do this again.’” have the opportunity to take some take the extra year of eligibility. All well, and these did not fit many of this summer and then will be set to Milam connected her bache- time.” three athletes see this added time the graduates’ plans. Those that take the exam. lor’s degree in graphic design to For January, the unemployment as an advantage, not a decision that were interested in a Marist grad- “It gave me more time to get an- the Marist Integrated Marketing rate is 11.2 percent for all people will set them back from other grad- uate program, had to have some other diploma, which is really im- Communications (IMC) Master’s in the United States ages 15 to 24 uates. difficult conversations in regards portant in today’s world because program. Likewise, Mehalick has a years old, which is certainly an im- Twenty-five percent of the 2020 to money and debated getting a people with more education are bachelor’s degree in business ad- provement from April. This is what women’s lacrosse seniors decided degree they might not need to play likely to get a job over people who ministration, specifically market- the athletes were hoping for–a bet- to return in 2021. The men’s la- sports again. just have an undergraduate de- ing, and decided to take a chance ter job market to go into than when crosse team and the softball team “What can we do to keep them gree,” said Constant. on going for her master’s in finance. they would have in the spring of resulted in 55 percent and 25 per- here, and extend their academic Constant interned over the sum- After their spring seasons, Me- last year. cent returns, respectively. There career while also extending their mer with PricewaterhouseCoopers halick and Milam have plans in The extra time has helped the were several factors that led to athletic career?” asked Gates. “And (PwC) and will start as an audit as- place, working as interns that will athletes enhance their education these numbers, as Director of Stu- most of our student athletes are sociate in the fall of 2021. An extra hopefully lead to a job. Mehalick while also extending their athletic dent-Athlete Enhancement Alyssa not getting huge scholarships so it year would have never even been a will be with BNY Mellon this sum- careers. They each have as stable of Gates has observed. wasn’t like they were going to have possibility for him outside of these mer as a financial summer analyst, a plan as they can have during this A handful of student athletes in that stuff be fully funded.” circumstances, as he was never while Milam is having a position pandemic, however, as time has the spring of 2020 jumped on the For Constant, it was a move that injured and played his freshman created for her at Liason Interna- proved to be helpful, it will also be opportunity immediately to be able worked perfectly into his schedule. year. This added year is continuing tional as the junior graphic design- the telling factor of how all things to come back for another year and He has a bachelor’s of science in to work in Constant’s favor and la- er. will play out. play. However, she explained, sev- business administration, specifi- crosse has just begun. “When I am looking for full-time eral changed their minds as they cally accounting and finance. He Milam’s first reaction was an im- positions, hopefully, most of this is, Though the pause delayed the production of For The Record, we are moving forward with the project. We cannot wait to share it with the Marist community.