Dannielle Brown, Duquesne University Reach Settlement St

opinions features sports a & e ... April 15, 2021 The future of The COVID 2020-21 Duke Recital Halls, Volume 104 sports... workforce Awards 'Fearless' Calls In a world Incoming Music School Number 12 The Duke without the pandemic adjusts to online recognizes DU's coronavirus workers discuss performances www.duqsm.com top players post-grad life PAGE 4 PAGE 6 PAGE 8 PAGE 9 THE DUQUESNE DUKE Proudly Serving Our Campus Since 1925 Dannielle Brown, Duquesne University reach settlement St. Martin's Makeover: renovat- ing one of DU's oldest dorms

Mary Liz Flavin staff writer

St. Martin Residence Hall will be undergoing renovation beginning in May of this year. Since the 1960s, St. Martin has been a residence hall for the students of Duquesne. With the Alex LaFontaine | Staff Photographer Zoe Stratos building in need of an update, This mural honoring the late Marquis Jaylen "JB" Brown sits underneath an overpass on Fifth Avenue, just blocks away from Brottier Hall, where JB fell to his death staff writer Duquesne has partnered with the on Oct. 4, 2018. The mural has also served as the site of some of Dannielle Brown's protests. Radnor Property Group as well as the Harrison Street investment Colleen Hammond continue to take a proactive ap- son and on social media — “You media post. “This is an excel- management firm to accomplish news editor proach to cultivating a safe and came for the wrong mother, un- lent organization for mother’s this task. socially conscious environment til my last breath.” voices and student social activ- Currently, Martin's holds 485 After over two and a half for our students.” On Sept. 25, Duquesne an- ism to be channeled in a collec- residents — the majority of them years since her son’s death, Although Brown had not spo- nounced they had purchased tive front where all parties are being freshmen, with 20 of them Dannielle Brown has reached ken to university officials in body cameras for all 40 involved in a healthy, holistic being upper-class students. an agreement with Duquesne some time, this past July, she Duquesne Police officers. In approach to changing the cli- Chloe Brendle, a sophomore at University. abruptly moved from her na- addition, the university also mate of injustices on college Duquesne University, reflected According to Brown’s law- tive Washington, D.C. and took stated they were investing in campuses, collegiate communi- on her time living in Martin's her yers and Duquesne Media and up residence on Freedom Cor- enhanced de-escalation train- ties and systems.” freshman year. Communications Manager Rose ner in the Hill District where ing measures. “In bringing this case to a “It was OK. I was on the highest Ravasio, “The terms of the set- she began a hunger strike. At However, despite these ef- close, Dannielle Brown will now floor, so it was kinda sad I didn’t tlement agreement are not be- the beginning of her hunger forts, Brown continued her devote her focus and energy to have an elevator to go all the way ing disclosed.” strike, Brown issued a series of hunger strike until March 11 a broader mission of achiev- up there. I had to climb down the Brown, the mother of late demands to university adminis- – her 50th birthday. In total, ing social justice through the one flight of stairs and then hop Duquesne student Marquis Jay- tration. Brown stated she was on a hun- Marquis Jaylen Brown Founda- on the elevator,” Brendle said. len “JB” Brown, has been in a “1) An independent investiga- ger strike for 237 days. tion,” said attorneys Paul Jubas Brendle is under the opin- virtual deadlock with university tion with full access to informa- At the conclusion of her hun- and Max Petrunya. ion that Martin's was not the administration since JB tragi- tion and resources. ger strike, she hosted a small, Reflecting on the experience, ideal place to live. In addition cally fell to his death from the 2) Body cameras for all uni- outdoor gathering at the place Brown said she visited the me- to the elevator issue, Brendle 16th floor of Brottier Hall on versity police. where it all began — Freedom morial bench dedicated to her says that the bathroom situa- Oct. 4, 2018. It was JB’s 21st 3) Mandatory certification Corner. There she announced son, facing the Duquesne foot- tion wasn’t good either; there birthday. training in mental health crisis the launch of the Marquis Jay- ball field where he once played. were dim lights in the showers “Our deepest condolences, intervention and de-escalation len Brown Foundation, an or- “As the tears rolled down my and “you kinda just sat there.” thoughts and prayers will for- for police and first responders,” ganization with a major focus eyes, I took a deep breath and Thankfully with the new reno- ever be with the Brown Fam- read a sign at Brown’s protest on campus police reform across exhaled,” Brown said via social vation, all of these problems ily,” said Duquesne University site. the country. media. “The sun hit my face President Ken Gormley. “JB Brown repeatedly stated that “I am so excited to team up and I felt the warmth of your remains an important mem- she would not end her hunger with Duquesne (maybe) and spirit JB, shouting, ‘Well done ber of the Duquesne University strike until all her demands had universities around the world,” mother.’” see MARTIN— page 3 community. The University will been met, stating — both in per- Brown said in a March 13 social 2 Even in a pandemic, Duq boasts POLICE briefs Student Here are the crimes reported record freshmen application rates from April 5 to April 12. COVID-19 On April 5, a fire alarm was Kellen Stepler activated in Duquesne Towers. editor-in-chief The cause for the alarm was that While some colleges and uni- Relief someone discharged a fire extin- versities are facing a decrease guisher causing the smoke detec- in admissions, Duquesne Uni- tors to activate. It is unknown at versity is experiencing just the Funds this time who discharged the ex- opposite. tinguisher. Duquesne drew a record Kellen Stepler & amount of freshman applications On April 7, a commuter student Katia Faroun – more than 10,100, to be exact reported a “road rage” incident – for the upcoming fall semester. the duquesne duke where an unknown male exited The university admitted 8,400 his vehicle and punched the hood freshmen and 230 transfer stu- In a message sent to all stu- of the commuter’s car, which re- dents, and is expecting between dents Wednesday afternoon, sulted in damage. 1,193 and 1,248 freshmen, about Duquesne President Ken Gorm- 150 transfer students and 979 ley announced that the univer- Also on April 7, a student re- Griffin Sendek | Multimedia Editor new graduated students, accord- sity will be distributing funds to ported a theft from her dorm ing to Joel Bauman, senior vice every student to provide assis- room. The student reported re- Despite the challenges of the pandemic and a decline in college applications president for enrollment man- across the country, Duquesne has received a record number of applications. More tance in light of the COVID-19 ceiving threats from her room- agement. than 10,000 students applied for admission in the upcoming semester. pandemic. mate’s boyfriend over the Easter “As a philosophy, we seek in- The university received holiday period while at home. tellectually motivated and aca- rience while also adapting the one another, faculty, profession- roughly $14 million as part of demically curious individuals on-campus experience to follow als and in communities here.” the American Rescue Plan act of On April 10, a student contacted with leadership potential, stu- all CDC and Health department Despite the uncertainty of 2021 — the most recent stimulus Pittsburgh Police, Zone 2, to file dents who have records of per- guidelines,” he said. “We also the past year, Bauman said that package provided by the federal a report regarding fraudulent sonal growth and community created a fully online virtual op- the focus has still remained on government. The funds were charges on her credit card. Zone service who will thrive in our portunity to directly meet with students. provided to the university in or- 2 police referred the student back classrooms and bring vibrancy to counselors and instituted a ‘live “Everyone in the Duquesne der to help them cover costs in- to Duquesne Police. A DU police our campus,” Bauman said. chat’ feature for the admissions community rallied. The fact that curred by the pandemic and to officer met the student in the lob- Due to the COVID-19 pan- and financial aid office.” students and faculty still partici- provide aid to students in need of by of Brottier Hall and a report demic, Bauman said that the big- Nearly 40% of the incoming pated in as much of a residential additional assistance. was taken. The student contacted gest change this year was test- class comes from outside the experience and as impactful and So far, the university has dis- the credit card company and she optional admission. For fall 2021 commonwealth of Pennsylva- supportive a year bodes well for tributed funds to students with will not be responsible for the to fall 2022 freshman applicants, nia, which Bauman attributed to the future of Duquesne and of qualifying financial needs twice. credit card charges. all majors are offering a test-op- Duquesne’s “national and inter- those students who will gradu- However, the university will now tional opportunity. national footprint and presence.” ate and pursue yet bigger goals,” be including every student in their 61% of the incoming class uti- “Legacy communities and Bauman said. distribution of these funds, includ- lized the test-optional process, alumni around the country and ing international students and stu- and Bauman said that the uni- world are proud of their educa- dents without financial aid. versity will most likely maintain tion and help promote through Full-time students who COVID-19 it for all programs at least until vigorous word of mouth,” Bau- have already received aid from fall 2022. man said. Crime Duquesne with funds from the “[D] epending on the academic 1,627 applicants were from stimulus package will receive an NUMBERS success of the students enrolled Allegheny County, and Bauman additional check of $1,250. All other full-time students will re- Brief: ceive $1,000, and part-time stu- SCAN HERE FOR dents will receive $500. COVID-19 DATA “We have prudently man- Colleen Hammond aged our funds this year, and news editor our students and their families have been nothing short of fabu- On Tuesday at roughly 10:50 p.m., lous in helping us complete this Pittsburgh Zone 2 Police responded to academic year safely and pro- a Shotspotter alert on the 1400 block ductively,” Gormley said in an of Fifth Avenue, according to the Pitts- email addressed to all students burgh Public Safety Office. on Wednesday. “For that reason, Upon arrival, the officers discov- I’m proud to provide this much- ered a male victim who had been shot needed help, because we are all a in the leg, but was awake and alert. He family at Duquesne.” was then transported to a local hospi- The grants will be posted to tal and was in stable condition. students’ accounts on Monday, Griffin Sendek | Multimedia Editor Police were unable to locate the April 19, and physical checks shooter, who “fled in an unknown will start being distributed to A record number of freshmen applications have been received. This comes just as direction,” according to the Public EmailTips Duquesne is set to begin a full year construction on St. Martin's, a freshmen dorm. students on Thursday, April 22. Safety Office. Students can also opt to have We want your input! Duquesne students received an their grants direct-deposited by and future testing limitations, it said that local high schools are emergency alert notifying them of enrolling before April 18. The Duke’s news section would will be reviewed then for future still the largest source of stu- the incident at 11:24 p.m. Students Junior pharmacy major Lia Fer- love to hear from you about years,” he said. dents that select Duquesne. were instructed in the alert to “avoid raccio said that the email provided stories that you want to see in In addition to moving to an “Our reputation is rock solid the area” of the shooting, particu- “very exciting news that is just the print. Know a talented professor admissions process that was for having caring faculty who en- larly outside the Aces/Deuces bar on morale boost [she] needed.” or accomplished student? See test-optional, Bauman said that gage with students, walking be- Fifth Avenue. something on campus that just “Free money from Duquesne? doesn’t make sense? You can the biggest challenge was the side them as they discover who The emergency statement from Unheard of,” Ferraccio said. “Fi- send your tips and story ideas to restriction of on-campus visits they are and expand their hori- Duquesne Police Chief Thomas Hart nally getting something more News Editor Colleen Hammond and interacting in-person with zons,” he said. “As a residential said, “This is not Duquesne Univer- than just a couple wellness days at [email protected] students, families and faculty campus with a location with easy sity related.” in return for all the hard work we members. access to all areas of the city, stu- Pittsburgh Police continue to inves- put in.” “Staff and schools and faculty dents know they can make con- tigate the incident. moved to a mostly virtual expe- nections and learn together with

April 15, 2021 News 3 A look at the upcoming renovations in St. Martin's

gan in mid- to late 2017 when of a step missing in between. St. from MARTIN— page 1 the request for the proposal of Martin's seeks to fill that void,” Brottier Hall was put in place. Gigliotti said. will be solved. Once the construction of Brotti- The Radnor Group is taking a With the update, Martin's will er was finished, the proposal for whole new approach to the tra- be able to hold 536 students, 323 Martin’s renovation was next on ditional dormitory-style living. of those being upper-year and the table. The majority of the rooms will graduate students. The rooms Tim Gigliotti, managing di- be single suite-style living with a will be molded into mostly single rector for the Radnor Property connecting bathroom. This elim- occupancy suite-style units with Group, shared more about the inates the communal bathroom a few double occupancy rooms renovation process and what entirely. But that begs the ques- as well. Each room will contain Duquesne can anticipate from it. tion: What do we do with those a refrigerator, small cooktop, “If you look at the suite-style spaces now that they have no microwave, bed, desk and an arrangement offered at Vickroy use? Each of those areas on every adjoining bathroom connecting and Des Places, they are very nice floor will be converted to either a two units together. suites. Then you look at the jump kitchen, a study area or a gaming Duquesne’s partnership with from those to traditional apart- longue. the Radnor Property Group be- ments and Brottier — there's sort “We would like to encourage people to cross collaborate Griffin Sendek | Multimedia Editor among the different floors. We The current, dorm-style rooms of Martin's will be updated to accommodate more want to encourage people to go students in new, suite-style rooms. The renovations are made possible through up and down the building,” Gi- Duquesne's ongoing partnership with the Radnor Property Group. Renovations gliotti said. should be finished by fall 2022. According to Gigliotti, each supposed to start last summer, the sidewalks around the build- designated area will go in order but due to COVID-19, the project ing will be open and will not in- of kitchen, study and gaming was postponed for a year. Now terfere with the daily workings of lounge by floor as you work your with COVID looking better than Assumption Hall or Towers. way up the building. The idea it has in the past, renovation Joshua Branker, a sophomore behind this is to bring together will commence in May. Martins and current RA at Martin's, is residents by placing different will be closed for one academic excited to hear about the renova- community-style living areas on school year and will open in the tion at Martins and can’t wait to every floor. Each area will have fall of 2022. see how things turn out. its own unique set up; for ex- Gigliotti says that the con- “I would say that sounds ample, no two gaming areas will struction should not interfere amazing; it's the type of things be alike. One may have a pool with the normal day-to-day that we need for our building. Griffin Sendek | Multimedia Editor table while the other has skee- routine of students during the I’m very excited and would like For the past six decades, St. Martin Hall has remained relatively the same. Now, ball, which allows for a greater school year. The majority of the to go there one day. Sign me up,” after much planning and deliberation, the Radnor Property Group will begin variation. “loud work” will take place over Branker said. renovations in May. The dorm will remain closed for one year and reopen at the Originally the renovation was the summer break. In addition, beginning of the fall 2022 semester. Student orgs tackle Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Baylee Martin Vanessa Llewellyn, the Presi- 26–30) will wrap up the entire staff writer dent of SASV, said that actions month with resources and ways being taken by SASV include to continue learning. This month is Sexual Assault “Round Table Talks” as an open Although Hubay said that Awareness Month (SAAM), and forum for students to end the Duquesne’s efforts have put the Duquesne will be taking all of shame-stigma, hosting a clothing university at the lowest rates of April to educate the community drive for PAAR and “Denim Day” sexual violence out of any major on the realities of sexual assault on April 28. Pittsburgh university, Llewyllen and violence, while providing Sexual assault and violence are acknowledges there is still work resources for students aimed at no stranger to college campuses to be done. preventing and eliminating this across the nation, and Duquesne “Duquesne has a zero-toler- overarching issue. is no exception. Each week of ance policy for plagiarism, which The university’s Students April, new topics and programs means if you’re found guilty of it, Against Sexual Violence (SASV) have been presented to students you’re gone, no questions asked,” organization has been combating with important resources that Llewyllen said. “We do not have and raising awareness concern- can be accessed with both in-per- this in place for rape. To say that ing the issue of sexual assault son and online options. we don’t have zero tolerance for within their three main areas of Beginning the week of March rape is to say that we have some outreach: activism and action, 29, the Title IX team has been amount of tolerance for rape. advocacy and awareness, accord- highlighting a different topic Griffin Sendek | Multimedia Editor And that’s not okay with us here ing to SASV Vice President De- concerning sexual assault over at SASV." idra Hubay. the month’s five-week time span. As organizations across campus enagage in dialogues about the realities of Any students interested in sexual assualt and sexual violence, the cups at the Starbucks in the Student “It is our mission to promote Week one (March 29-April 2) joining SASV or are in need of Union feature a message highlighting Sexual Assault Awareness Month. ideas of safe and inclusion in focused on resources and report- resources can send a request on campus practices, support and ing options from Title IX Coor- [email protected], or on the Uni- duct Prevention and Response. CampusLink or email Vanessa empower survivors of sexual as- dinator and Director of Sexual versity’s Sexual Harassment and On April 6 at 8 p.m., Pittsburgh or Deidra at [email protected] sault, bring awareness to stu- Misconduct Prevention and Re- Sexual Misconduct Anonymous Action Against Rape hosted a and [email protected]. dents, faculty, staff and other sponse Alicia Simpson. Simp- Reporting Form. virtual bystander intervention campus members through activ- son spoke on Monday, March 29 Week two (April 5–April 9) in- workshop via Zoom to help the ism in action,” Hubay said. "We from 2:30 to 4 p.m. at the Union volved bystander intervention to university convey this message. Additional resources partner with outside commu- Fountain. Any violations to the teach students about “recogniz- This week (April 12–16) marks for those experiencing nity organizations such as the university’s TAP No. 61 Interim ing a potentially harmful situa- the third week of Sexual As- Pittsburgh Action Against Rape Policy on Title IX Sexual Harass- tion or interaction and choosing sault Awareness Month, with the sexual violence can be (PAAR) to help us, and the Title ment and non-Title IX Sexual to respond in a way that could main focus being consent. Next found at the National IX coordinator provides neces- Misconduct under TAP 31 can positively influence the out- week (April 19–23) will focus on Sexual Assault Hotline: sary resources for support and be reported to Simpson at (412) come,” according to the office healthy relationships and online (800)-656-4673 recovery after trauma.” 396-2560 or by her email, simp- of Title IX and Sexual Miscon- safety, and the final week (April 4 Opinions THEDUQUESNEDUKE staff 113 College Hall editorial 600 Forbes Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15282 What’s the point editorial staff of Wellness Day? With April 15 marking Duquesne’s editor-in-chief Kellen Stepler second ‘Wellness Day,’ many stu- managing editor Colleen Hammond dents on campus still feel obliged news editor Colleen Hammond to hunker down in their dorms or opinions editor Noah Wilbur in the library to catch up on unfin- features editor Katia Faroun ished work. a&e editor Capri Scarcelli The purpose of this day was ini- sports editor Adam Lindner tially to let students catch their layout editor Kelsey Burtner breaths, being that the shortened multimedia editor Griffin Sendek spring semester left students, facul- administrative staff ty and staff without a proper spring adviser Paula Reed Ward ad manager Carissa Haslam break. With the semester droning on without a pause, this leads many stu- email us: [email protected] dents to burnout. Now with a day or two of rest, the blueprint was for students to find time for activities they may otherwise not have time for with jam- Griffin Sendek / Multimedia Editor packed schedules of classes, school- With the vaccine rollout in America heating up, the future of sports is beginning to look far more bright. work and extracurriculars. “We may encounter But how are students expected to take a day off when they are also ex- The future of sports in a world pected to meet deadlines in a timely many defeats but we manner? without the coronavirus Even with food trucks, free prizes must not be defeated.” ast March, sports ers hosted a baseball game family and friends. and music on A-Walk, not all profes- enthusiasts, as well at full capacity — the first Admittedly, the recent re- sors are encouraging their students as the players them- sports event in the U.S. in surgence of sporting events to take a break. In fact, some are be- L grudgingly giving the class period up Maya Angelou selves, were in utter disbe- over a year to include more in America is primarily at- lief as sporting events across than 40,000 fans in one tributable to rising comfort and assigning outside work to make W up for the time lost. the globe came to a halt after place, at one time. It is ap- levels among fans resulting the emergence of COVID-19 parent, at least in Texas, that from the widespread avail- With this added pressure, stu- and its ensuing spread. The people are prepared to sit ability of COVID-19 vaccina- dents feel even more pressured than before, feeling as though ‘Wellness ambiguity surrounding the next to strangers in a public tions. With more and more Day’ has become a day to crank out pandemic brought forth a setting without a mask. Americans receiving their assignments rather than making the number of questions con- Not to mention, the Na- vaccine every passing day, You just read Now tweet most of the day. cerning the future of sports, tional Basketball Associa- whether it be the first or sec- For those inside today worrying our thoughts. us yours. and whether or not we would tion (NBA) and the National ond dose, the environments about their workload, the activities, ever return to a time when Football League (NFL) each within the stadiums and food and fun will be mostly over by @TheDuquesneDuke recently announced their in- attending a baseball game arenas across the country the time the sun sets, making an ac- tentions to authorize full ca- with friends and family is simultaneously grow safer complished day feel like a day wast- considered “normal.” pacity attendance at arenas each day as well. ed, or an opportunity missed. From sports venues turning and stadiums in the near fu- Despite this positive and Even with assignments due at into breeding grounds for the ture, with colleges and even encouraging outlook I’ve midnight, the day feels shorter when editorial virus, to the inherent health- some high schools following just described, according to trying to cram in some fun while still related risks posed not only to their lead. In fact, just last recent data, the truth of the getting the work done. the players and their families month, the Minnesota Vi- matter is that the major- It may even feel like an added policy but also to the coaches, the ity of Americans still do not pressure, like you have to participate The Duquesne Duke is the student- overwhelming evidence clear- feel comfortable attending a in all of the events occurring on cam- written, student-managed newspaper ly indicated that the corona- sports event, even more so pus when everyone else is, too. of Duquesne University. It is published Not to mention, sometimes we every Thursday during the academic virus pandemic might change when it is located inside an year except during semester breaks and the face of the sports world for enclosed venue. seem to forget that acts of self-care holidays, and prior to final exams. The years to come. As reported by data ana- aren’t always about running around Staff Editorial is based upon the opin- on city adventures when time allows. ions of the editors of The Duke and does However, in recent weeks, lytics firm Morning Consult not necessarily reflect the views of the it has become apparent that in March of this year, only Sometimes it’s taking longer show- students, faculty, administration, stu- this might not be the case 32% of U.S. adults are will- ers, listening to music that brings dent government or the University pub- with athletic leagues — col- ing to attend an outdoor you joy, having positive self-talk lications board. Op-ed columns do not and organizing yourself and your reflect the opinions of The Duke, but legiate and professional — sporting event, with a mea- surroundings for a more cleansing, rather are the sole opinions of the col- seemingly putting those ques- ger 22% expressing interest healthy environment. umnists themselves. tions to rest by opening their in attending an indoor event. It seems almost contradictory for stadiums and arenas to fans Be that as it may, given the Letters policy Duquesne to be encouraging stu- Letters to the editor must be typed, in what many would consider current rate of the vaccine dents to enjoy the day for what it’s double-spaced and include the writ- to be a timely manner. rollout in the country, I am er’s name, school/department and Noah Wilbur worth, but not allotting time for stu- As state and local govern- of the opinion that the sports phone number for verification. Letters opinions editor dents to stick to the syllabus. should be no longer than 300 words ments continue to lift social world is on its way to return- The School of Pharmacy, for one, and should be delivered to The Duke restrictions, many restau- ing to some form of normalcy office at 113 College Hall or e-mailed kings announced its ongoing still had classes on this day, while to [email protected] by 5 p.m. rants and bars are permit- intent to host football games in the coming months. With the School of Music still had to tend Tuesday. The editors reserve the right ting 75% capacity while em- at full capacity this fall dur- fans eager to support their to their private lessons and upcom- to edit any and all submitted copies. ployees slowly filter back into ing the 2021 season. teams in person and athletes All letters must be verified before being ing assignments. published. their workplaces and return In light of the above evi- even more enthusiastic to no It’s hard enough playing catch- to a “normal” day-to-day dence, it appears that the longer stare at a sea of card- up, and even harder when there’s Corrections/clarifications schedule. Most importantly, short-term outlook for the board cutouts, there is not Readers should report any story or guilt behind it. Though a kind ges- photo error to The Duke. All legitimate sports clubs are once again sports world is grossly opti- any obstacle mighty enough ture with the fruitful opportunities errors will be corrected in print the fol- allowing fans to enter their mistic as social restrictions to stop the greatest come- provided on this day, we must re- lowing edition. facilities to watch as their fa- are reversed around the back of all time. mind ourselves that no one should Contact vorite teams put on a show. country, and people — both My advice? Go get vacci- feel as though their work comes be- For example, nearly two young and old — search for nated! I cannot say it loudly fore their well-being, or that the two email: [email protected] weeks ago, the Texas Rang- fun activities to enjoy with enough… intertwine. Opinions 5 President Biden’s bold climate initiative is exactly what the US needs Zoe Stratos executive order that began to re- vestment of $1.7 trillion over the staff columnist verse the Clean Power Plan. course of 10 years, while the new Most notably in June 2017, plan costs $300 billion more — uring the 2020 election, Trump pulled out of the Paris with a shorter time span. President Biden and for- Climate Agreement, a pact of 194 To acquire the funds necessary Dmer President Donald countries that promised to curb to combat climate change, Biden Trump focused their campaigns greenhouse gas emissions. plans to raise the corporate in- heavily on how to combat CO- Other setbacks included come tax rate, and promises to VID-19 and relief efforts for those Trump’s proposal to roll back not raise taxes for low income affected by it. While COVID-19 the Endangered Species Act and households. has taken a toll on the Ameri- weaken fuel economy rules in This is where controversy can spirit, climate change is still 2018, and two executive orders comes in. Hailed by economists an ever growing threat, and the to allow companies to build oil and climate change experts alike, Biden Administration has a lot of and gas pipelines in 2019. a tax on carbon would be the work to do to combat it. Upon Biden’s entrance into of- most efficient way to raise mon- Spanning back to the 2016 fice, the first week offered new ey for the agenda, though most election, the Trump administra- executive orders to combat cli- households would not be exempt tion seemingly overhauled the mate change. from it. Though with a carbon Obama Administration’s steps On his official website, Biden tax, it would cut down on after- toward reversing climate change, outlines the importance of the tax incomes on carbon-based with a high focus on the oil and Green New Deal framework. Sim- services such as gas. coal industries. ilarly to Trump, Biden acknowl- Moreover, there would be a Courtesy of flickr Being a businessman, Trump edges the connection between fee on imports from countries Unlike his predecessor, President Biden is focused on tackling the climate crisis. focused much of his campaign economy and environment, but without a carbon tax, which Though another part of Biden’s on March 31 at a union training on economic prosperity, but with looks at it in a different light. would rally other countries in plan connects the dots between center in Pittsburgh. “It’s a once- that, climate change initiatives One of the biggest highlights of joining the initiative. economy and environment: U.S. in-a-generation investment in came to a screeching halt. Dur- Biden’s $2 trillion plan is for the Without a carbon tax, as Biden infrastructure. America.” ing his four years in office, many U.S. to reach a 100% clean energy plans to move forward with, only The plan proposes to create Moreover, the infrastructure things had changed, including the economy and net-zero emissions regulations and executive orders millions of union jobs to make plan would create up to 20,000 following according to the Na- by 2050, but achieving this feat is can put a curb on carbon emis- transportation of goods and peo- miles of rebuilt roads and elimi- tional Geographic: difficult. sions. The issue with regulation ple faster — and less expensive. nate lead pipes from water sup- In February 2017, the U.S. Originally, Biden’s climate is that it can be easily reversed Part of this will be to transform Senate named Scott Pruitt as the plan was underwhelming for not or worked around, as we’ve seen the energy sources that power plies, all the while creating clean head of the United States Envi- only scientists and environmen- from the last few presidencies. public transportation, while also energy and providing jobs for mil- ronmental Protection Agency talists, but for everyday people Essentially, regulation is not providing public transporta- lions of Americans. — who previously sued the EPA invested in the fight against cli- optimal in a long term investment tion for thousands of Americans Although ambitious, the Biden over its regulations and, most no- mate change. The biggest differ- like net-zero carbon emissions across the U.S. by 2030. climate initiative is possible with tably, the Clean Power Plan. The ence between the two is the cost. within the next 20 or so years. “It’s not a plan that tinkers the right investments and support administration then signed an The original plan called for an in- Biden won’t be in charge that long. around the edges,” Biden said from the American people. You should get the COVID-19 vaccine at the earliest opportunity had the opportunity to receive the countries that have thus far been Alexander Wolfe vaccine. Nearly 40% of the entire unable to procure them. staff columnist country has received at least one Yet the time table driving vac- efore you turn on the caps dose of some COVID-19 vaccine, cine production, delivery and use lock and come for me with and most states are not scheduled forces us to remove this needi- pitchforks, the question of to truly open vaccinations to the ness criterion from our decision- B general public until April 19. making. Individuals choosing not whether or not to get the vaccine shouldn’t be one of microchips, Furthermore, the inspiring rate to receive a vaccine cannot at this side-effects or politics (good grief), of vaccine production and distri- point be forced to do so, and the but rather one of, frankly, who bution has allowed for tradition- short shelf life of these vaccines, in needs it more. ally marginalized — and usually addition to the private and social In the long run, as many people high-risk or essential — commu- benefits of inoculation, demands who are able to receive the vaccine nities to receive targeted ship- we use as many vaccines as pos- should do so, in spite of the notably ments, the Hill District being a sible as soon as possible. harsh side effects spanning the ini- prime example. As someone returning from tial 48 hours of inoculation. I say Yet if polling is to be believed, China in December, where the that as someone who received his nearly a third of the Hill District’s CDC has determined COVID-19 first dose of the Moderna vaccine, Black residents are highly un- had been spreading quietly since and the body ache and nausea are likely to make plans to get vac- September, the thought that I Courtesy of Unsplash certainly enough to take someone cinated (these numbers fluctu- could have unknowingly been Not only is the vaccine safe, but it is also necessary to wake up from this nightmare. ate wildly across different polls an asymptomatic host upon my out of commission for a day. at Central Baptist Church hadn’t ment of Health announced that from 25%-75%, but 33% seemed December return is not exactly Yet those vaccine conscious informed Duquesne of the ex- every Pennsylvaian over 18 is eli- to be the most supported). Other a comforting thought. I assume among you might justifiably pon- tra doses received, it’s entirely gible to receive the vaccine. So, do der if I fall into an at-risk catego- polls find vaccine apprehension the same goes for the thousands possible many individuals who not hesitate to find a vaccine ap- ry or am an essential worker, of is less about race and more about of individuals who lost fam- received the vaccine may have pointment. Nearly 3.5 million vac- which I am neither. education. One NBC poll found ily members in the post-holiday been stricken with the virus. cines are being administered every So was it right for me to “jump similar rates of skepticism among death spikes after attending fam- While we enter into an optimistic day — about 1% of the country — the line” and race to the Hill Dis- white and Black Americans, while ily gatherings while positive, con- trict’s Central Baptist Church last the Marine Corps released infor- sciously or otherwise. period for those willing to receive so there will be ample opportuni- week along with dozens of other mation estimating that 40% of While we are first responsible the vaccine, we should remem- ties to get vaccinated in the com- Duquesne students? Even ac- Marines offered the vaccine had for protecting ourselves, the pan- ber that receiving the vaccine is ing weeks. counting for the equity concerns declined, albeit some citing these demic has taught us that we can be both an unselfish act to protect Rather than be tied down by the — of which there are many — it similar equity concerns. equally responsible for protecting others, but primarily a selfish idea that you shouldn’t yet receive was ultimately, selfishly and un- Despite this, you’d be right to our loved ones. This is the essence act to protect yourself, and that a dose, value your newfound free- selfishly, the right choice, and I presume that somewhere close to of our collective responsibility to is OK. At a surface level, it keeps dom — responsibly because vac- would encourage others given the your local vaccination site, there vaccinate — that we have to be a hospital bed open, while more cinated individuals can still spread opportunity to receive the vaccine is someone who needs that vac- prepared to take any opportunity broadly, each person vaccinated the virus — and look around you to to do so as well. cine more than you, or that the to keep those around us safe. is another step toward returning help and encourage the significant By now, many high-risk and United States should be sending If Duquesne students and or- to some sense of normalcy. portion of Americans still cautious essential service personnel have more doses of vaccines overseas to ganizers administering vaccines As of April 13, the PA Depart- about receiving a vaccine. Opinions April 15, 2021 6 FEATURES Open house shows off ODI's new space to Duq community Katia Faroun to the third floor of the Union at features editor some point in the day,” Kane said, and this new location for the cen- uquesne’s Office of Diver- ter will allow it to be more engaged sity and Inclusion got an with the student population. upgrade, set with a new Besides bringing a change of D space, the center’s upgrade also space, new offices and a new name. The new Center for Excellence comes with a re-commitment to in Diversity and Student Inclusion diversity at Duquesne, focusing — previously the Office of Diversi- on all students with diverse back- ty and Inclusion (ODI) — marked grounds. its official grand opening on Tues- “We want to expand our out- day with an afternoon open house. reach to support all students of The event welcomed members of diverse populations,” Kane said. the Duquesne community to tour This commitment is important the new space, learn about the to Duquesne students, includ- center’s programs and activities ing Merecedes Williams, a senior and meet the staff and students in- multiplatform journalism major volved in the center. who has witnessed the center’s Now located in Room 302 of changes over her more than 10 the Student Union, the center is years at the university. now in a more central, active lo- “I hope it remains a community cation and has more space than for students of all descents,” Wil- Katia Faroun / Features Editor it did in its previous office on the liams said. first floor. The family-oriented, com- Anthony Kane (center) discusses the center's new office space, located in Room 302 of the Union, during Tuesday's open house. The center’s move to the third munity aspect of the center is offices in mid-March. for the center came from a conver- “I hope it continues to deposit floor was key for better engage- what Jean Cherilus, a univer- In a campus-wide email sent sation with Duquesne’s Black Stu- strength in students of colors’ lives, ment with students, according to sity advancement associate at March 15, President Ken Gormley dent Union, where members rec- as it has in mine,” Williams said. Anthony Kane, director of diver- Duquesne, hopes to continue to notified the Duquesne commu- ommended creating “a centrally sity and inclusion at Duquesne. see through the center’s changes. nity of the new center, saying that located space where students from

“It was important for us to be in a “I hope it continues to be like a its creation is part of Duquesne’s diverse populations could gather T h e S t safe space for students of color,” Action Plan for Diversity, Equity and support one another,” accord- y o spot where students could be with t r i i us and engage with us,” Kane said. Cherilus said. and Inclusion. ing to the e-mail. n e u BLACK s

The third floor of the Union is Although the grand open- “The new Center will build on The new location and the op- o

VOICES f

the “hub of student activities,” ing just took place this week, the legacy of ODI’s student-facing portunities it brings to the cen- o

MATTER

u according to Kane, which allows the new center has been in the programming to expand its focus ter will allow its staff to provide

q k

u c

students to have easier access to works since the summer as part on excellence into classroom en- Duquesne students with the en- a

B n

’

the center and makes the center of Duquesne’s commitment to vironments, community engage- gagement, care and resources s more visible for students who creating a more inclusive envi- ment and preparation for profes- they need — something that stu- might be in need of its resources. ronment on campus. The center’s sional success,” Gormley wrote. dents, like Williams, have already “Most students make their way staff began moving into their new The idea for creating a new space benefited from. Duq seniors talk post-grad plans in a COVID world Emily Ambery “The one thing that this pandemic helped me staff writer realize is that I want to apply for M.D./Ph.D. programs during the 2022 application cycle,” s commencement events begin and Kocsis said. “My passion for research as well as Duquesne prepares for safe and social- my love for learning science and medicine has ly distant ceremonies to celebrate this led me to wanting to pursue this dual degree.” A For senior nursing major Saige McLusky, year’s graduates, Duquesne seniors have been preparing throughout the COVID-19 school COVID-19 has not influenced her post-gradu- year for their plans after graduation. ation decision, but has solidified her plans to Duquesne is planning a two-part approach stay in Pittsburgh and start traveling when it to commencement. The events will include a is safe. virtual commencement ceremony for all gradu- “Ever since I started school, I planned on ates, featuring student speakers, remarks from staying in Pittsburgh for a year or two for ex- the deans and slides that recognize students perience locally until I was ready to start trav- and their accomplishments. It will also hold a elling,” McLusky said. “My decision to stay variety of smaller, in-person, individual degree definitely is the safest option for me regarding recognition ceremonies and observances. COVID-19 and the smartest option for me re- While COVID-19 has affected graduation garding my career as a new nurse.” proceedings, it has also affected the process Seniors are hopeful that with the end of the pandemic in sight, travelling outside of of looking for jobs, graduate school and other Griffin Sendek / Multimedia Editor Duquesne and hometowns will provide new post-grad endeavors this year. The uncertain- While the pandemic has posed unique challenges for graduating seniors, it has also reaffirmed their goals. ty of the pandemic and vaccination rates has opportunities. made this process especially unique for this “Looking for a job has been very stressful. tive applicants to look at now, and there are not “I’m excited to see where exactly life takes year’s seniors. Finding a job in the middle of a pandemic is a lot of jobs available.” me,” Cocozza said. “We’ve been refined to stay- “I was ready to jump into the ‘real world’ and not an easy task,” Simmers said. “It is a really For many, COVID-19 may not have ing in the same place, like staying in Pittsburgh look for job openings abroad, but COVID has interesting dynamic to wear pajama pants changed plans, but it has made them harder or staying at home, and we can’t really travel, made that dream a little hard to complete,” said and a dressy top and jacket while interviewing to accomplish. so now I’m excited to just see where I end up.” senior Spanish major Mady Simmers. “I was not for a job.” “Fortunately, COVID didn’t change my While there is a lot of uncertainty about the expecting to complete my last year of undergrad Along with the changing dynamics of the job plans too much,” said senior biomedical engi- future of the pandemic, Duquesne graduates the way that I have and was expecting to have search, seniors planning on pursuing a gradu- neering major Tori Kocsis. “I knew I wanted to are hopeful and looking forward to the future. a plan all figured out, but because of COVID, ate degree have faced obstacles as well. apply for the Master’s in Biomedical Engineer- “Even though COVID was a gigantic bump there have been many bumps in the road.” “Getting into grad school was already going ing program at Duquesne, which I got accepted in the road, I am excited to use the skills and With the loss of many jobs at the beginning to be hard for me, and finding a job has just into this past month.” the work ethic that I have gained during my of the pandemic and the transition to remote been harder than expected — way harder,” said For Kocsis, the pandemic has helped her re- upcoming job opportunities,” Simmers said. positions, the job search and interview process senior biology and psychology major Lauren alize what she wants to do with her degree and “I think that if I learned anything through CO- for this year’s graduates has looked different. Cocozza. “There’s just a larger pool of competi- obtaining her master’s. VID, it is that we all rely on one another.” SPORTS 7 Inaction a good sign as Penguins chase third Cup since ‘16

Luke B. Henne Now, think about the times in which the won’t have to handle the type of expec- made the right call. asst. sports editor Penguins made some of the league’s big- tations that Hossa, Iginla, Morrow and If there’s anything the team has learned gest splashes at the league’s trade dead- Brassard did. He’ll likely be a bottom-six in the success it’s had over the past 10 to Think back to the Pittsburgh Penguins’ line. Recall Jarome Iginla and Brenden forward and nothing more. 15 years, it’s that the Stanley Cup isn’t won back-to-back Stanley Cup runs of 2016 Morrow in 2013, Derick Brassard in 2018 Adding a guy like the 36-year-old Carter at the deadline. It’s won when a team can and 2017. Former general manager Jim and even Marian Hossa back in 2008. not only brings experience, but it brings capture lightning in a bottle at exactly the Rutherford acquired players like Carl With these moves, the Penguins won the much-needed depth. The team is currently right time. Hagelin, Justin Schultz and Ron Hainsey. deadline, but no Stanley Cups. That’s not without forwards Evgeni Malkin, Kasperi If the past 23 games are any predictor, These weren’t exactly household names, to suggest that there is a direct correlation Kapanen and Brandon Tanev, all who are the Penguins may be capturing that light- but they were depth players that did their between splash moves and postseason dealing with longer-term injuries. ning once again. jobs and contributed to the team’s histori- failure. But think about it. Despite the injuries to key players, the cal milestone, as Pittsburgh was the first Iginla and Morrow joined a team that Penguins haven’t missed a beat. Since the team to win back-to-back titles since the went a perfect 15-0-0 in the month of start of March, the team has gone 16-5- Detroit Red Wings in 1997 and 1998. March and finished the shortened 2013 1, all but solidifying a spot in the Stanley season with a 36-12-0 record, the best re- Cup Playoffs for a league-best 15th con- cord in the Eastern Conference. secutive season. Why mess with such chemistry, espe- Entering Thursday, the Penguins are an cially when both players joined new teams overall 27-13-2 with 56 points. They are cur- at season’s end? rently in third place in the league’s Mass- Brassard joined a 2017-18 squad that Mutual East Division, trailing Washington won eight of 12 games in the month of by four points and the Islanders by two. February. Brassard scored just 12 goals In eight meetings with the Islanders in 54 games across parts of two seasons this season, the Penguins won six. If the before being traded out of Pittsburgh less current standings hold, the two teams than a year after being acquired. will meet up in the Stanley Cup Playoffs Again, why mess with such chemistry, for the second time in three seasons. New especially for a team trying to win its third York swept Pittsburgh in the 2019 Eastern consecutive Stanley Cup? Conference Quarterfinals. Ron Hextall, the team’s newly-appoint- In six battles with the Capitals this year, ed general manager, made the right call the Penguins were victorious on four oc- by not making splash moves at this year’s casions. The two teams will play a pivotal trade deadline. two-game set in Washington, D.C., on The only new Penguin will be Jeff April 29 and May 1. Carter, a two-time Stanley Cup champion Given this, it’s clear that the Penguins with 19 points in 40 games with the Los have had and can continue to have success Angeles Kings this season. All it cost the against their two biggest threats in the Penguins were two future mid-round draft East Division. Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons picks. Not too bad. By steering clear from the league’s big- Jeff Carter, acquired by Pittsburgh prior to the Brandon Tanev, pictured above, will likely miss Carter brings experience and leadership gest trade bait — like Buffalo’s Taylor Hall NHL’s trade deadline, figures to add veteran ex- the rest of the regular season with an injury. to the team, but he will know his role. He or St. Louis’ Mike Hoffman — Hextall perience to a loaded group of Penguins forwards.

DU football team drops league title game to Sacred Heart

Adam Lindner enough to win.” “I challenged them a little bit [at the knows. He’s going to learn from it. He did a sports editor The Dukes might not have played well beginning of the fourth quarter],” Schmitt lot of great things for us, and he’s going to enough to win, but they were damn close. said. “That’s not us, 13 points in three continue to do great things,” Schmitt said. The Duquesne football team entered Trailing 34-27 in overtime, Mischler quarters. We’re a better football team Sunday’s NEC championship game with an was mere yards from the end zone before a than that. We made some mistakes, we undefeated season and postseason dreams Pioneers defender punched the ball out of made some red zone mistakes. on its mind. the quarterback’s hands. Sacred Heart re- “They stepped up and made some plays.” It left with a sour taste in its mouth. covered Mischler’s fumble in the end zone, A 35-yard Joey Isabella touchdown “Obviously, not the way we wanted to ending Duquesne’s season and extending catch with 4:18 remaining in regulation end things, but you’ve got to give credit to its own campaign in the process. capped a five-play, 98-yard Duquesne Sacred Heart — they came out and played “We’d love to go back and change some drive and knotted the score at 27-27. at a really high level today,” Duquesne things, but we can’t,” Mischler said. Duquesne elected to defend first dur- quarterback Joe Mischler said postgame. “We’ve just got to live with it. That’s life ing the extra period and had Sacred Heart “At the end of the day, we didn’t play well and part of the game.” within one play of a turnover-on-downs be- The game was an entertaining, back- fore Pioneer quarterback Marquez McCray and-forth affair — Duquesne Head Coach found Naseim Brantly for a 29-yard score. Jerry Schmitt said postgame he imagined The Dukes then managed to move the it was an “exciting game to watch” — that ball to within the Pioneers’ five-yard line saw the Dukes play their first overtime pe- before Mischler’s game-deciding fumble. riod since a double-overtime loss at Wag- Schmitt said the decision to keep the ner on Oct. 31, 2009. ball in Mischler’s hands will be one of the Duquesne and Sacred Heart combined many things he regrets as he looks back on for 843 yards of total offense and 39 first Duquesne’s defeat. downs on the afternoon. The Pioneers did “We had that play a couple plays earli- most of their damage via their ground er — we had the exact look we needed on game while the Dukes’ Mischler threw for that where he probably walks in [to the 335 total yards. end zone]. I think we called a different Trailing 27-13 entering the fourth quar- play there. ... That will be one of the many Courtesy of Duquesne Athletics ter, Duquesne scored 14 unanswered regrets when I watch the film of decisions Courtesy of Duquesne Athletics A Duquesne wide receiver leaps to make a points in the final 15 minutes of regulation that I made. Duquesne freshman wide receiver Joey Isabel- catch against Sacred Heart at Rooney Field. to force overtime. “But no. [Mischler] is a winner. He la runs with the ball during the NEC title game. 8 THEDUQUESNEDUKE 2020-21 Duke Awards The Duke recognizes remarkable Duquesne players, coaches and teams for their successes over the past year.

Men’s Team of the Year: Football Newcomer of the Year: Megan McConnell In an abbreviated regular season, the Duquesne football team went a perfect 4-0, defeat- McConnell, a hometown product and graduate of Chartiers Valley High School, shined ing Northeast Conference opponents by an average margin of 12 points. Victories over in her first year with the women’s basketball team. The freshman guard averaged 7.5 Sacred Heart, Wagner, Long Island and Bryant propelled Duquesne into the STATS FCS points/game, scoring a season-high 18 points in a Jan. 10 contest against Richmond. Top 25 poll heading into the inaugural NEC Championship. Quarterback Joe Mischler McConnell shot 79.4% from the free-throw line and posted a solid 2.12:1 assist-to- led the way with a conference-high 1,241 total yards of offense. The running back duo turnover ratio. The sister of former Duquesne men’s basketball star and current In- of Garrett Owens and Billy Lucas combined for 708 yards and seven touchdowns. Wide diana Pacers point guard T.J. McConnell played a team-high 459 minutes during the receiver Cyrus Holder averaged 98.2 yards/game, good for best in the conference among truncated 16-game season. She made 19 3-point field goals, trailing only fellow fresh- pass catchers. The Dukes fell just short of earning the conference’s automatic bid into man guard Tess Myers (25) for most on the team. the FCS Playoffs following a 34-27 overtime loss against Sacred Heart on April 11.

Women’s Team of the Year: Bowling The bowling team’s NCAA tournament appearance earlier this month made the program just the fifth in Duquesne history to appear in an NCAA Championship bracket (alongside men’s and women’s basketball, volleyball and women’s soccer). Founded in 2016, the program’s rapid rise to relevance has made it one of the more dominant teams on campus. Despite a second-day elimination at the hands of No. 13 Sacred Heart, the Dukes managed to finish inside the Top 12 at the NCAA tournament in North Kansas City, Mo., last week. Duquesne is set to compete at the Intercollegiate Singles Champi- onships/Intercollegiate Team Championships on Friday in Dayton, Ohio.

Male Athlete of the Year: Marcus Weathers It would be negligent to discount Weathers’ impact on the men’s basketball team’s recent resurgence under Keith Dambrot. The 6-foot-5 forward led the team in scoring in each of the past two seasons and recently became the first DU men’s basketball player to earn back-to-back all-conference honors since Damian Saunders in 2010 and ‘11. Weathers began his collegiate career at Miami (Ohio) in 2016 alongside his twin brother, Michael, before transferring to Duquesne in the spring of 2017. Michael spent time at Oklahoma State Courtesy of Duquesne Athletics and Texas Southern, respectively, following his time as a RedHawk, and led Texas South- Duquesne senior Allison Hresko bowls during the Dukes’ NCAA Regionals showing in Kansas City. ern to the NCAA tournament last month. The twins recently announced their intentions to reunite for their last seasons of collegiate eligibility at Southern Methodist University. Most Improved Team: Women’s Lacrosse Under third-year head coach Corinne Desrosiers, the Duquesne women’s lacrosse team continues to make significant improvements. Desrosiers was hired following a 2018 season in which the Dukes went 4-12 and lost seven of nine conference games. The Dukes made strides in 2019, finishing with a 9-8 record and a 4-5 conference record. The 2020 season saw Duquesne go 3-3, going out on a high-note by thoroughly beating Akron by a 25-2 score in a March 11 victory prior to the rest of the season being canceled due to COVID-19. The team continues to trend upward, currently sitting at 4-2 (3-2 in A-10 play) with three games remaining.

Pictured above: Megan McConnell (left) and Rilee Bradshaw (right). — Courtesy of Duquesne Athletics Women’s Athlete of the Year: Olivia Farwell Farwell, the most decorated bowler in Duquesne program history, helped lead the Dukes to their first-ever NCAA tournament appearance this season. Farwell entered her senior season as a three-time All-American, putting her in the company of a select group of legendary DU athletes including Korie Hlede, Dick Ricketts, Sihugo Green and Christian Kuntz. Senior Athlete of the Year: Rilee Bradshaw Bradshaw continues to impress as a veteran for the women’s lacrosse team. The graduate student from Middletown, Md., has scored 23 goals through the team’s first six games, helping Duquesne win four of its first six contests. Bradshaw is peppering opposing goalkeepers, record- Courtesy of Duquesne Athletics ing a team-high 53 shots. She scored six goals on two separate occasions and posted a season- Top: Several members of the Duquesne defense tackle a Sacred Heart player during a 2021 game at high seven points in an emphatic 22-6 victory over Kent State on March 16. Her success has the Rooney Field. Dukes on track to finish above .500 in Atlantic 10 Conference play for the first time since 2016. Bottom: Marcus Weathers, pictured during a Feb. 27 game against Rhode Island, is The Duke’s 2020- 21 Male Athlete of the Year. April 15, 2021 sports ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 9 Music school provides music to the ear during COVID week’s Emma Polen events staff writer

OVID-19 changed a lot about Mass Exodus: Catholic how musicians are able to Disaffiliation in America perform. Duquesne’s Mary C Friday, April 16 @ 2 p.m. Pappert School of Music, with the help of its supportive staff and driv- How did American Catholicism, en student body, has continued to share music with the world in cre- so strong for so long, get to ative ways. this point — and what does the Music is both a very personal and future hold? very public experience, and musicians are innovating new techniques Return to AfroWorld for reaching people on both levels. Saturday, April 17 @ 4 p.m. With the pandemic, the “personal” experience of music was easy to Join the African Student achieve in confinement. However, Union on Zoom for Return to the “shared” part was more diffi- Afroworld! Zoom link can be cult, as recital halls across the world found on CampusLink. closed their doors to performers. Em Yuretich, a junior music education major with a focus in voice, used the challenges of the pandemic griffin sendek / multimedia editor to share music differently than she Despite year-long COVID restrictions, Mary Pappert School of Music continues to showcase students’ musical talent. has in the past. Yuretich took advantage of restric- The move to primarily virtual expected to put a tremendous effort value of sharing live music during tions and chose a smaller recital sharing of music actually allowed into preparation for their student the pandemic. space. This was both for her own a wider audience a glimpse of the recital. “In spite of the restrictions, in a upcoming musical preferences and for the safe- music happening in Mary Pappert. The pandemic cut many events weird way, I probably appreciated it ty of all in attendance. Steve Groves is the Mary Pappert from the school calendar this past more than I would have under nor- releases “I chose to keep a much smaller School of Music director of music year, but it did not affect the incred- mal circumstances,” he said. audience,” Yuretich said. “I opted, as engagement, events and market- ible number of hours students spent Groves said that sharing music is many did, to host a Zoom meeting ing. Last December, he was also in practicing the pieces they performed such an important part of our lives. Vanquish for others to join in who were not a charge of editing the music school’s at their student recital. “We all interact with music in Friday, April 16 part of the physical audience.” annual Christmas at Duquesne con- Garret Hoffman, a junior music some way, literally every day,” Every music student, excluding cert. The concert was composed of education and voice major, had his Groves said. Starring Morgan Freeman music therapy majors, have to per- 13 ensembles. This year, the per- junior recital this year. Even if COVID-19 restrictions are and Ruby Rose, a retired cop threatens to hold a drug dealer's form at least one recital as part of formances were released completely “In a certain sense, I’ve been prac- not yet loosening for events like music students’ recitals, perfor- daughter hostage in order to do their mandatory coursework. virtually and posted on the Mary ticing for [the student recital] the mances will carry on in the music his bidding. One requirement for these recitals Pappert YouwTube channel during entire time I’ve been at Duquesne,” school. This is good news for both is an “audience.” Under normal cir- December. Hoffman said. the community of musicians here Purge The Poison cumstances, a music student would “We had over 14,000 combined The repertoire is a selection of at Duquesne as well as the wider Marina have ample space to invite people to views on all those videos during the songs he has performed over music-enthusiast community who Wednesday, April 14 come listen in-person in one of Mary course of the month, which is a pret- the course of his lessons here at ty amazing feat for not having done Duquesne since fall of freshman appreciate listening to their content. Pappert’s recital halls. Those who wish to view select Singer-songwriter Marina Dia- However, COVID-19 restricts the anything like that before that time,” year. mandis puts out two new singles Groves said. No music student wants to miss student recitals can do so on the maximum capacity of the recital music school’s YouTube channel, that could potentially allude to a No Duquesne concert hall could out on their junior recital, even if it spaces, and the biggest recital hall Mary Pappert School of Music. new album. hold that many people, which means comes with extra pressure. can only hold a maximum of 30 If you want to see what the Mary the recordings reached the ears of people. “While it’s stressful to put togeth- Pappert School of Music is cur- many more audience members than The “audience” requirement gives er and prepare, it’s definitely well rently working on, check out their they could have with completely in- Duquesne music students the unique worth the effort — especially nowa- YouTube and their social media. person viewing. opportunity to still have in-person days, when live musical experiences (Twitter: @MPSoM, Instagram: @ Restrictive, smaller recital events audience members that many off- are so limited and rare,” Hoffman marypappertsom, Facebook: @ campus venues do not have. did not release the stress of live per- said. mpsom). formance, though. Students are still Hoffman said he truly sees the capri's kind words

Take it Easy Horoscopes As the semester comes to a close, mental health is one of the most Aquarius Pisces Aries Taurus important matters to tend to. With an overload of schoolwork, study- Not a journalism major Do your homework from Never trust a bunny. If you're gonna play piano, ing, and cramming in some last few trying to get into an edu- the Home Depot kitchen at least play rag! happy moments before heading home, display section. remember that it's okay to put yourself cation class.... first and communicate your needs.

It's okay to make time for yourself: to Leo Virgo take care, to rest, and to grow a little Gemini Cancer Courtesy of Reddit more each day into the person you Have you ever considered I'm a Goofy Goober: If you learn ballet I will Hot girls get the aspire to be.

being a nomad? pay your hospital bill. vaccine (and get ice It takes persistence, it takes patience, cream afterward) and it takes positive self-talk to achieve what you desire. Libra Scorpio Sagittarius Capricorn Make your surroundings encouraging and welcoming for yourself and for others. Remember your impact, too. Don't overreact babe, as Rock! Chuck E. Cheese pizza It's raining it's pouring, your ABBA says, that's the name for sale! – Capri Scarcelli zoom class is boring! of the game! 10 THEDUQUESNEDUKE Taylor Swift's re-recordings bring nostalgia to fans Capri Scarcelli songs from the vault. In a con- with more intensity and a power- a&e editor tract with previous music manager house of a harmony line, this song t’s not often that you get to expe- Scooter Braun, Swift’s first six stu- seems more like a goal than a wish. rience an album for the first time dio albums were sold between Itha- It made love seem achievable rather all over again. ca Holdings LLC and Big Machine than a faraway fairytale. I appreciat- I Records for over $300 million. In ed the ambience, the re-telling of the For many of us, we were merely 8 years old when country-turned-pop retaliation, Swift decided to com- girl who doesn’t see her worth but star Taylor Swift released her criti- pletely renew her music to get the knows it is there, somewhere. “Why cally-acclaimed studio album Fear- records under her name again. can’t you see?” isn’t rhetorical any- less (2008), leaving daydreaming With a new vocal maturity, add- more, and I swear you can feel that girls in awe and wonder of what their ed instrumentation and featured in this version. teenage years would hold. harmony lines, Swift’s songs hold I’ve even found that there are At 20, I am listening to Swift’s a whole new quality, creating a col- songs I can connect more with remastered Fearless (Taylor’s Ver- lective piece that doesn’t necessar- than when I was younger. The new sion) with a nostalgic heart — not ily aim to replicate the original, but “You’re Not Sorry” is bold, front and only for the girl who had a whole rather enhance its aura. center. Dynamically, it’s perfect. coming-of-age story ahead of her, Thanks to Swift’s genius story-tell- There is more growth in vocality but for the girl who lived through the ing in her lyricism, the album reads as the violin is brought to more of love, strength and hurt that she sings like a book in true Fearless fashion. a droning simmer, making Swift’s courtesy of unsplash The first track of the same name mix/chest voice the focal point. I’ve of. The first in its series, Taylor Swift will be re-recording her discography from 2008-2014. I am listening to myself grow up. has a familiar feel to its original never felt the story of this song as the vault?” out as a single previously to the full On April 9, Swift released the rendition. “Fearless” is almost a strongly because I didn’t know what “We Were Happy” struck a chord release of Taylor’s version. Featuring complete set of re-recorded tracks more subtle version of its first re- it was like to be heartbroken and for me in particular because it was Maren Morris, this piece was polite, along with six never-before-heard cording, her voice guiding with have to be forgiving. I didn’t know grace instead of force. Her crystal what heartbreak was at all. This very unlike her older works — it re- somber and had an airy chorus that clear tone and slight twang really hit differently, and I appreciate the minded me of her pieces from Folk- felt new and familiar all at once. It re- makes the album start off with a song in a whole new light. lore and Evermore, a crooning sad- minds me of a slow dance at a country purity that has aged well. Even the piano version of “For- ness of appreciating what you had wedding, in an ironic sense. Or a tran- With “Fifteen,” however, I felt ever & Always” seemed to change where you left it. I think this song sitional period of moving on in hopes myself melt back into my high- the whole meaning for me. It made proves not only her maturity as an of finding your self-identity, but you spirited high school experience, so the song seem like something that artist, but as a person. It shocked me just aren’t there yet. There’s a lulling full of hope for the world ahead and would belong to her newer works: that she wasn’t allowed to include ache to it that urges me to put it on anticipatory of every up and down wistful, perhaps even stoic in a way this in the original make of Fearless repeat, rehashing memories I didn’t that would shape me into who I am that seems to resemble her recently- because it was “too sappy.” I think even know I had in the first place. today. This song was different when produced long pond studio sessions. Swift has always been self-aware and At last, “Bye Bye Baby” feels like I was age 8 — romanticizing football The acoustics lightly ricochet, just honest with her emotions, which is a cohesive finale to the album. This games, the prom, driving in a car like our tears at this point. admirable and should be celebrated. piece shows a begrudging effort of let- with a boy I could call mine. And at Of course, the march forward was “Mr. Perfectly Fine,” however, ting go, relapsing through the last mo- age 15, the song felt like I was sure driven by “The Way I Loved You.” showed that classic sassy Taylor we ments of joy through the relationship. of the life I was leading. How about There was so much articulation in all know and love. This piece was re- The subtle echo of the background at 20? With airy vocals and a softer her tone quality, riffing and -back moved from the original cut because vocals mimic the flush of memories tone, this piece feels more like a ground percussion that the piece of how blatantly obvious it was about rushing past her, removing herself dreamscape, a stream of memories itself felt theatrical. You could visual- pop singer Joe Jonas, a former boy- from the narrative no matter how that seem to whisk past us before we ize the melodrama of young love, and friend of Swift. This track gained trac- tightly she held onto the relationship realize they’re gone. The line, “wish you could visualize those heightened tion on social media because of the she conceptualized. I could feel her you could go back and tell yourself emotions as if you are experiencing reminiscent drama between Jonas past pain, though the song trickles out what you know now,” seems to reso- them in the present. This recording and Swift, something pop culture with so much hope. nate more now than ever before. was an invitation to the risks we take clung to for quite some time in 2008. If you have not listened to Fearless The same emotions held strong for the ones we care for, and it felt Re-surfacing this romance, even Jo- (Taylor’s Version), you can do so by nas’ wife Sophie Turner wrote on streaming it on Spotify, Apple Music courtesy of wikimedia with “You Belong With Me,” a song I like those efforts have been worth it belted in the car for 10 years straight all along. Twitter that “it’s not NOT a bop.” or other participating services. Taylor Swift re-visits her old music in “You All Over Me,” however, came The Duquesne Duke gives Taylor’s new fashion. thinking it was written for me. Now And what about the songs “from Dolly Parton documentary celebrates her successes braylyn bruno ences to authentically connect with accompanied by Mark Ronson on staff writer her songs, as songs such as “Coat the guitar. of Many Colors,” “Jolene,” “9 to 5” This performance was one of the n April 7, Netflix released and others express themes of pov- strongest of the night, with the art- Dolly Parton: A MusiCares erty, heartbreak and the working ists’ voices accompanying each other OTribute, more than two years class. Parton’s storytelling hits close perfectly. after the filming of the show. to home for many and makes her a Cryus showed her excitement and The special documentary was re- truly unique artist. her relationship to Parton as she leased to celebrate Dolly Parton be- The documentary is joyous and waved at the honoree from the stage. ing named MusiCares’ Person of the celebratory, as the world had not yet Another standout performance of Year. This honor celebrates artists had its spirits dampened by the pan- the night came from Yolanda Ad- who are talented musicians and have demic at the time of its filming. This ams. Adams’ rendition of “I Will Al- a dedication to philanthropy, and is upbeat spirit allows for a nice change ways Love You” gave justice to Par- deemed one of music’s most presti- of pace from today’s entertainment, ton’s biggest hit ever. Adams’ high courtesy of netflix gious honors. as we see real people coming togeth- notes were a highlight of the night, Special guests commemorate Dolly Parton's current legacy with a virtual concert. The award celebrates people who er with a reason to celebrate. and her performance itself made the have shown generosity and given Little Big Town hosted the event short documentary worth watching. about how she’s rich even though her However, in order to enjoy this docu- back to the community, and Parton and introduced standout artists Some performances were cer- family had no money while she was mentary, Dolly lovers must be open to is the living embodiment of this ideal such as Miley Cyrus, Katy Perry and tainly stronger than others, but the growing up. different interpretations of her music. candidate. Most recently, Parton was Shawn Mendes. The night was full of diversity of artists chosen to perform This song choice spoke towards The majority of the show is per- in the news for her $1 million contri- performances from artists who came will appeal to Dolly fans of all ages. Parton’s character and perfectly cap- formance-based, so aside from a few bution towards COVID-19 vaccine together to offer their own renditions Of course the best part of the show tured the reason why she was chosen brief scenes speaking about Parton’s efforts. of some of Parton’s greatest hits. was when Parton herself took the to receive this high honor of Musi- philanthropy achievements, not Parton has penned over 3,000 The kickoff to the show began stage. The artist opted to sing “Coat Cares Person of the Year. much is spoken about Parton’s life. songs and won 10 Grammy Awards with Mendes and Cyrus, Parton’s of Many Colors,” a song that repre- The documentary definitely If you are looking for a short con- throughout her career. goddaughter, singing Parton’s clas- sents her journey in life. The song achieves its objective of honoring Par- cert to virtually tune into while sitting Her background allows audi- sic song “Islands in the Stream,” is rich in meaning, as Parton sings ton through the expression of music. at home, add this one to your list.

April 15, 2021 arts & entertainment THE LAST WORD 11

CLASSIFIEDS FOLLOW Check out our YOUTUBE Apply to Become an THE DUKE CHANNEL! AmeriCorps Member ON THE WEB Help immigrants and refugees thrive, gain professional skills, meet Instagram @TheDuquesne new people as a full-time Compass Duke AmeriCorps member. Service year runs September-July. Stipend, health- Facebook The Duquesne Duke care, and educational award. Apply at Subscribe to compassamericorps.org Twitter The @TheDuquesne Duquesne Duke Duke Today! Follow us on Advertise Instagram with us! @TheDuquesneDuke duqdukeads@gmail.

Follow THE DUKE on Social Media

The Duquesne Duke Visit our Facebook Instagram supports local businesses The Duquesne Duke @TheDuquesneDuke website at duqsm.com

Twitter LISTEN @TheDuquesneDuke Online at LIVE 24/7 @TDD_Sports www.duqsm.com DUQSM.COM/ ADVERTISE WITH US WDSR/ TODAY! 12 THEDUQUESNEDUKE The Duquesne Duke WRITERS & Follow supports local businesses PHOTOGRAPHERS THE NEEDED DUKE FOR THE DUKE online! Facebook The Duquesne Duke

ADVERTISE WITH US TODAY! Twitter Stop by @TheDuquesneDuke Contact Carissa Haslam at college hall 113 [email protected] Or email Our Instagram editor-in-chief at @TheDuquesneDuke

Steplerk@ Online at Duq.edu www.duqsm.com

COMIC ARTIST Get Updates Needed Your INSTANTLY for THE DUKE Ad Facebook Instagram The Duquesne Duke @TheDuquesneDuke Here Visit us Twitter Online at @TheDuquesneDuke www.duqsm.com at the newsroom in Contact @TDD_Sports 113 College Hall Carissa Haslam or email us at Follow THE DUKE steplerk@ at duqdukeads on Social Media duq.edu @gmail.com