Monday, May 17, 2021 I Vol. 118 Iss. 3 INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER • SERVING THE GW COMMUNITY SINCE 1904 WWW.GWHATCHET.COM What’s inside Opinions Culture Sports The editorial board Discover a Corcoran Check in with argues that it’s well past student’s senior thesis women’s tennis as time for D.C. to become film about medical they recap their A-10 a state. racism. semifinal run. Page 6 Page 7 Page 8

Bunch calls on graduates to lead with empathy in Graduates celebrate virtual Commencement address Commencement with ISHA TRIVEDI NEWS EDITOR small gatherings ABBY KENNEDY YANKUN ZHAO to celebrate their virtual ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR Commencement under CO- ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR VID-19 guidelines after of- TARA SUTER ficials announced the event Standing in the halls STAFF WRITER would be hosted online in of the Smithsonian Castle, March, drawing “mixed” re- former professor Lonnie Class of 2021 graduate actions from students. Grad- Bunch thought back to a Frederico Michelin’s Com- uating seniors said they’re time when a stranger pro- mencement day will not organizing celebratory din- tected him from a mob of take place on the National ners, watch parties and pho- White teenagers carrying Mall this year, but instead of tos with friends and family baseball bats and rocks at graduating before a crowd around campus to celebrate the age of 13. of thousands, he’ll gather their accomplishments and Bunch, the secretary with friends to watch their create memories with some of the Smithsonian Insti- college years conclude on- form of personal gathering. tution and the first Black line. Michelin said he also person to hold the title, Michelin, a sociology enjoyed seeing the Com- said the incident showed major, said he started plan- mencement-themed struc- him the impact of stand- ning for his own National tures placed around campus ing up for what’s right in Mall experience to celebrate for students to visit and take the face of adversity and Commencement in Septem- pictures with in their Com- taught him to never ste- ber under the assumption mencement attire. that Commencement would “I just kind of under- reotype others. Bunch said DANIELLE TOWERS | ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR the stranger’s willingness most likely be held online stood that it would be online Bunch will receive a Doctor of Humane Letters honorary degree when officials eventually hold an in-person because of the COVID-19 and just I was fine with it,” to defend him demon- Commencement ceremony. strated that there are times pandemic. He said the re- Michelin said. “I wasn’t re- when everyone, no matter Graduates had attend- sity are part of the human nities during these hard cent increase in the number ally expecting much from how strong, fast or smart, ed the University remotely condition,” he said. “What times. He cited Studs Ter- of vaccinated people across them to give us anything. I can benefit from the “sus- for more than a year amid matters, though, is how we kel, a famous oral histori- the country impacted his think what was nice is that tenance, inspiration and the COVID-19 pandemic, respond to these moments. an he met during his time decision to bring his par- they did decorate campus.” guidance” of others. and GW was the only col- Adversity, like your edu- in Chicago, as someone ents from New York to D.C., Officials said in a release “At that moment, I lege in the District to hold cation, can prepare you for who headed toward the celebrate with a dinner and last month they would be learned that help comes their Commencement vir- the world, can instill em- direction of “doing good” participate in small celebra- unable to host a gathering from unlikely places and tually. Officials plan to in- pathy, inspire action.” through his advocacy for tions with friends. on the Mall because of the that generosity of spirit vite both the Class of 2020 He urged graduates the “voiceless” in history. “It definitely has allowed National Parks Service’s re- binds our humanity, irre- and Class of 2021 back for to seek and accept help “If you have that com- me to invite my parents to strictions on large gather- spective of race, religion or in-person ceremonies on whenever needed, espe- mitment to do good, you’ll come down, a celebratory ings. In the release, officials background,” Bunch said. the National Mall at a fu- cially from the friends be able to handle adversity, dinner and it’s also allowed also said after having con- Addressing the gradu- ture date when “it is safe they made and professors you’ll be able to embrace me to kind of plan with my versations with students, ating Class of 2021 as the to do so.” they learned from at GW, the ambiguity and change friends what we want to do graduates and families they University’s first virtual Bunch acknowledged because no one is an “is- that life is all about.” with whether that’s outside heard “repeatedly” that stu- Commencement speaker, the added burdens gradu- land.” Bunch will receive a or inside,” he said. dents would rather wait to Bunch told GW’s new- ates endured over the past Bunch, a former mu- Doctor of Humane Letters Michelin is one of more hold Commencement on the est alumni to use their year because of the pan- seum studies and history honorary degree when of- than half a dozen gradu- Mall when they could invite education and empathy demic and the national professor between 1990 ficials hold an in-person ates who said in interviews as many friends and family they planned small gather- as possible. to contribute to making reckoning on racial and and 2000, also encouraged ceremony. the United States a better, social injustice. graduates to support each ings with other vaccinated kinder place. “Moments of adver- other and their commu- See COMMENCEMENT Page 4 friends and family members See GRADUATES Page 5 Board of Trustees approves fiscal year 2022 budget

ISHA TRIVEDI cretion – research-related travel and ternal contradiction” but is part of the school and University-wide,” Officials said the changes will NEWS EDITOR the dean’s research funding were a “tradeoff” that financial leaders Madeleine Jacobs, the Board’s aca- allow them to address these lower prioritized in the target,” Board often have to make when building demic affairs committee chair, said level cases in an “educational” way YANKUN ZHAO Chair Grace Speights said in an in- budgets. at the meeting. “She has provided while increasing consequences for ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR terview Friday. “So you know we Trustees also approved a new extensive service to the University, repeat offenders. feel that there is a priority that has policy to assess institutional risk and we express appreciation and The revisions also include an The Board of Trustees passed been given to research.” when considering naming op- gratitude to Dean Jeffries for her increase in representation among the budget for the upcoming fiscal Joe Cordes, the co-chair of the portunities and introduced Bruno distinguished years of service and academic panels and other minor year at a meeting Friday. Faculty Senate’s fiscal planning Fernendes, the University’s new her dedication and commitment to changes to the Code’s language for The budget approval comes on and budgeting committee, said the treasurer and vice president of GW.” clarification and efficiency. The -Stu the heels of ongoing disagreements budget includes expanded fund- finance, during the Board meet- Trustees also recognized two re- dent Association and Faculty Sen- between faculty members and Uni- ing available for faculty merit pay ing. Richard Jones, the president tiring longtime GW staff members ate approved the Code’s changes in versity leaders over which areas of increases but also limits use of de- of the GW Alumni Association, with resolutions of appreciation, March. funding to prioritize in the FY 2022 partmental funds for expenses like also announced he would be step- honoring William Carnago, the di- The Board also approved the budget. Faculty have argued that of- research. ping down and will be replaced by rector of Board operations, who will nominations of Adam Conner, Pa- ficials should direct more funds to Cordes said there is no formal Christine Brown-Quinn, an alum- retire after 21 years of working at mela Lawrence and Sam Shekar as research endeavors to make up for limitation on the use of depart- na of the School of Business and a GW and Beth Nolan, the senior vice new trustees for four-year terms be- lost opportunities during the pan- mental funds, which include unre- member of its Board of Advisors. president and general counsel, who ginning this June and extending to demic, but administrators have said stricted gifts from donors, but they The Board adopted a resolution was named general counsel emerita May 31, 2025. they view the upcoming fiscal year are recommending that faculty of appreciation for Pamela Jeffries, and is retiring after 14 years. “On behalf of the committee, as a “transition year,” looking to al- defer their requests of the funds in the School of Nursing dean, who The Board approved updates we’re excited to welcome this group locate money to a surplus to invest the upcoming fiscal year since they will depart at the end of June to to the Code of Academic Integrity of outstanding individuals and look in the University’s long-term well- are subject to an “overall spending head the nursing school at Vander- and Code of Student Conduct to forward to the opportunity to meet being. constraint.” bilt University. establish a greater “restorative” and with them and actually to see all of “Even with the faculty concerns He said the decision to increase “She has modeled exemplary ad- “educational” approach for low-lev- you in person at an upcoming meet- around the schools or college-level funding for merit increases while ministrative leadership throughout el academic violations, like elimi- ing,” trustee Mark Chichester, the funding – and that’s the place recommending departmental fund her tenure and has worked to men- nating permanent records for those chair of the Board’s governance and where the deans actually have dis- restrictions appears to be an “in- tor future academic leaders within violations. nominations committee, said. Remote learning, regulations were key for limiting COVID-19 cases: officials

MICHELLE VASSILEV the spread of the virus in mission rates remained low ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR the surrounding commu- by regularly testing stu- nity. dents, faculty and staff and SEJAL GOVINDARAO The University tested abiding by Centers for Dis- STAFF WRITER a total of nearly 87,500 in- ease Control and Prevention dividuals with the highest guidelines. More than a year after positivity rate on campus “We required everyone the University transitioned reaching 2.19 percent, GW’s on campus to wear a mask to remote learning as the coronavirus dashboard when in public areas or in COVID-19 pandemic trig- shows. Lynn Goldman, the the presence of others, we gered deaths and infections dean of the Milken Insti- practiced social distancing across the District, officials tute School of Public Health and encouraged everyone said GW effectively main- who advises administrators to follow CDC recommen- tained a safe year on cam- on GW’s response to the dations for handwashing pus. pandemic, said deciding and coughing/sneezing hy- The University recorded against a full reopening in giene,” Burnotes said in an fewer than 750 positive the fall was the biggest chal- email. “We also have strict coronavirus cases in the lenge the University faced. isolation and quarantine GW community since they “While we had done protocols for anyone that began testing on-campus much planning, it wasn’t tested positive or was ex- students weekly in August, clear until mid-August that posed to a positive case.” logging about a 0.5 percent our test lab would be fully After closing campus overall positivity rate. Ex- operative,” Goldman said last March, administrators perts in public health and in an email. “More criti- decided to keep classes re- biology said mandating cally we saw a rise in cases mote for the fall, granting mask-wearing around cam- nationally in summer 2020 housing to just 500 students. pus, contact tracing and that we felt was indicative Officials kept classes vir- FILE PHOTO BY KATE CARPENTER | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER isolation were successful that it would be difficult if tual but expanded capacity Administrators will require all faculty, staff and students to get vaccinated prior to their arrival on campus this fall measures in preventing the not impossible to operate to host 1,500 students this as GW moves closer to normalcy. spread of the virus on cam- safely with a fully reopened spring. pus through student gather- campus in fall.” Officials announced that gy experts said universities decision to test students up on those positive cases, ings. Scott Burnotes, the vice they plan to open campus were able to limit outbreaks weekly was “excellent,” es- rapidly interview them The University faced an president of the Division of to “the fullest extent pos- through comprehensive pecially since the testing about who they may have uptick in coronavirus cases Safety and Facilities, said sible” next semester, and testing and quarantining regime was implemented in had close contact with and in October and another administrators limited ac- the University will require infected students. combination with a contact then notify those individu- spike in March due to Greek cess to campus “as much all returning faculty, staff Ellen Stein, the director tracing program. als who are exposed to be- life activity and small gath- as possible” by encourag- and students to get vacci- of the University of Illinois “Weekly is an excellent gin quarantine,” Stein said. erings. Local residents said ing online instruction for nated prior to their arrival at Chicago’s Contact Trac- testing regimen if paired they worried off-campus students. He said officials on campus. ing and COVID-19 Epidemi- with a contact tracing pro- residences would accelerate worked to ensure that trans- Public health and biolo- ology Program, said GW’s gram that can then follow See UNIVERSITY Page 4 May 17, 2021• Page 2 NEWS THE GW HATCHET

THIS WEEK’S KOREA POLICY FORUM, MULTILATERAL COOPERATION THE CHANGING ROLE OF AGENTS IN EVENTS IN NORTHEAST ASIA IN THE BIDEN ERA HOLLYWOOD May 17 • 9 a.m. EDT • Free May 19 • 4 p.m. EDT • Free The GW Institute for Korean Studies will host a discussion on what Join CCAS alumni as they talk about the evolution regional cooperation between the United States and Northeast Asia of talent representation in Hollywood and how will look like in the Biden era. agents play a key role.

THIS WEEK IN HISTORY The Board of Trustees announces the School of Public Policy and Public Administration will be renamed after former University President Stephen Joel Trachtenberg, The Hatchet reported. NewsMay 17, 2021 • Page 2 May 21, 2007 Jeffries leaves School of Nursing with legacy of diversity, research MICHELLE VASSILEV has modeled “exemplary more researchers, check- ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR leadership” and has pro- ing off another goal she vided “extensive service” had set for the school After joining the Uni- to the University. when assuming the posi- versity as the second dean As dean, Jeffries said tion of dean in 2015. in the nursing school’s she boosted enrollment Jeffries said she also relatively short 11-year from 500 students in 2015 focused on encouraging history, Pamela Jeffries is to nearly 1,200 students collaboration across the stepping down and leav- today. She said this in- school to foster communi- ing behind a legacy of di- crease in students called ty with a “strength-based versity, collaboration and for “aggressive hiring culture” in which all her research. plans,” leading her to en- faculty and staff complet- Jeffries, who served as list more than 20 new fac- ed Strengthfinders 2.0, a dean for six years, said she ulty members during her program that identifies accomplished her goals of time as dean. an individual’s top five leading the school into Jeffries said she placed strengths. the top 25 ranked nursing a strong emphasis on en- Jeffries said she had schools in the nation, in- suring diversity with a “no intent” to leave the creasing its diversity, cre- “fair and equitable” hir- nursing school, but the ating a doctoral program ing process. She said all position at Vanderbilt will and more than doubling faculty applicants had to allow her to be closer to its student enrollment submit a diversity, equity her family in the Midwest PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY SOPHIA YOUNG | ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR during her tenure. Pamela and inclusion statement while providing the op- Ranade, ISA’s director of programming, said spreading awareness about the COVID-19 crisis in India has helped Slaven-Lee, the associate before their interviews, portunity to work at “a with her own personal grieving process. dean for academic affairs, and all professors went highly reputable school.” will replace Jeffries after through implicit bias Jeffries said she- ex Students turn to activism as COVID-19 she leaves her current po- training. pects a “seamless” tran- sition in June and starts as She also appointed sition over to Slaven-Lee dean of Vanderbilt Uni- Sandra Davis, the school’s who has been her “right- pandemic creates health crisis in India versity’s School of Nurs- first assistant dean for hand person” as the as- ing in July. diversity, equity and in- sociate dean for academic NICHOLAS PASION campaign can raise money freshman studying engi- Jeffries assumed her clusion, three years ago affairs and is fit to lead the STAFF WRITER for student and interna- neering, said her biggest position in 2015, five years and started an advisory nursing school forward. tional aid organizations to concern was how the Indian after Jean Johnson, the council for diversity, eq- Ashley Darcy-Ma- SEJAL GOVINDARAO uplift Indian voices who government’s mishandling school’s first dean, found- uity and inclusion that honey, an associate profes- STAFF WRITER are impacted by the crisis of the pandemic, India’s ed the school. University issued a survey about the sor of nursing, said Jef- and typically overlooked by overwhelmed health care President Thomas LeB- school’s climate to ensure fries’ time as dean of the In light of India’s recent Western countries. system, a lack of vaccines lanc thanked Jeffries for it was inclusive for faculty nursing school was “quite devastating COVID-19 case Brahma said the ISA is and high population den- her tenure at the Board of and staff. impressive” because she surge, South Asian students working to direct the cam- sity expedited the spread Trustees meeting Friday. Jeffries added that she had the vision to grow are turning to activism to paign work toward the of the virus. She added that Trustee Madeleine implemented a PhD nurs- research and innovation aid the country through the more rural communities in the new COVID-19 muta- Jacobs, the chair of the ing program in 2018 after even when the school was crisis, while simultaneously India because they tend to tion in India is deadly, and Board’s academic affairs developing the school’s so young at just 11 years grappling with their own have less access to medical thousands of bodies are cre- committee, said Jeffries research base and adding old. grief. materials like gloves and mated everyday – a repre- Members of the Indian masks. sentation of the massive loss Student Association said Brahma said ISA’s cam- of life in the country. they’re working to address paign will focus on raising She said Prime Minister the pandemic’s severity in money for four different Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya India with awareness and organizations, the Trans- Janata Party, currently rul- fundraising initiatives, con- gender Welfare Equity and ing in India, has not provid- necting with marginalized Empowerment Foundation, ed people with the proper communities in the country Khalsa Aid, Indian Muslim coronavirus resources like through remote communi- Relief and Charities and a oxygen cylinders. Vargis cation and organized activ- verified grassroots GoFund- said Modi’s “ignorant” be- ism via social media. India’s Me providing aid to crema- havior has cost the country COVID-19 cases currently torium workers. tens of thousands of lives. surpass 24 million, and the Sneha Ranade, ISA’s di- Vargis said she had a virus is now spreading into rector of programming, said loved one who passed away villages where health care is she and other students have in India due to the lack of difficult to find, surround- connected with family in oxygen cylinders. ing the urban areas most India through WhatsApp to Harita Iswara, a junior impacted by the pandemic’s relay first-hand stories about studying international af- first wave. living through the pan- fairs and political science, Deisha Brahma, the demic. The family members said her parents did not president of the Indian Stu- and students communicate know the gravity of the dent Association, said ISA through a large group chat, pandemic in India until is currently in the plan- allowing students to stay hearing first-hand accounts ning stages of their activism connected and ask how to from family about what campaign, which the orga- best raise awareness at GW her uncle, who contracted HATCHET FILE PHOTO nization launched Saturday. and in the United States. the coronavirus, was going Jeffries said her new position at Vanderbilt University will allow her to be closer to her family in the Brahma said she hopes the Ria Christina Vargis, a through. Midwest while providing the opportunity to work at “a highly reputable school.”

Students advocate for D.C. statehood bill despite slim odds in Senate RIO MATSUMOTO hood bill to assure that the District STAFF WRITER has two senators like every other jurisdiction and that Congress can A bill granting D.C. statehood no longer interfere and seek to over- faces slim odds as it awaits a po- turn D.C.’s local legislation,” she tential Senate vote later this year, said. but GW students are continuing to Teresa Klugewicz, the president advocate for the admission of the of the GW chapter of Students for District into the Union. D.C. Statehood, said the bill would The House of Representatives greatly benefit the D.C. popula- approved a bill, named H.R. 51, for tion, nearly half of which is Black, the second time in a year last month because it doesn’t receive sufficient with a 216 to 208 vote to make D.C. representation to protect their vot- a state named “State of Washing- ing rights. ton, Douglass Commonwealth,” af- “Black individuals are receiving ter abolitionist Frederick Douglass. the back end of the economy in D.C. Some students are advocating for and facing homelessness and a lot statehood to city and federal offi- of other disadvantages,” she said. cials through phone banking in an Klugewicz said the GW chapter effort to advance the bill’s prospects is lobbying with 51 for 51, an orga- as the University breaks for sum- nization that aims to remove the mer. filibuster, a rule that requires most The bill has stalled in the Sen- Senate legislation like the statehood ate after passing the House due to bill to be approved with a 60-vote bipartisan opposition to the bill, but majority to end debate instead of a some D.C. officials remain optimis- simple majority of 51 votes. Kluge- tic about the likelihood of its pass- wicz said she’s hopeful continuous ing. Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton, lobbying and advocacy efforts by D-D.C., the District’s non-voting grassroots campaigns and college representative in the House who in- organizations will push D.C. state- troduced the bill in Congress, said hood forward within the next year. FILE PHOTO BY ARIELLE BADER she is optimistic about D.C. being She said statehood is unlikely Political science experts said Republican opposition makes the prospect of the Senate passing statehood legislation this session granted statehood soon because of to pass the Senate this year, saying unlikely. increased support from the public. refusals from officials like mod- “Fifty-four percent of the Amer- erate Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., from 22 states wrote a letter last Republican opposition makes the be an area to serve as the capital ican people support statehood ac- to demand statehood means the month to President Joe Biden call- prospect of the Senate passing that shall not be part of a state, but cording to a detailed national poll, party will be unable to push the ing the D.C. statehood bill unconsti- statehood legislation this session there’s nothing in the Constitution bringing us close to statehood in the bill through the Senate. Manchin tutional and “unsound” because of unlikely. that says that the boundary of the near future,” she said in an email. spoke out against the statehood bill concerns that residents would have Howard Schweber, a professor area needs to be what is currently Norton said she introduced the because he wants to see the mea- unfair access to the federal govern- of political science at the Univer- the District of Columbia,” he said. bill to grant the city further auton- sure incorporated through a Con- ment because of their proximity to sity of Wisconsin-Madison, said he Schweber called the “no taxa- omy, like the ability to deploy the stitutional amendment because of the district. They also promised to doesn’t think the Senate will vote tion without representation” slogan National Guard and give residents concerns that the bill may not be pursue legal challenges to the bill for the bill due to the existence of “compelling,” but he doesn’t think voting representation in Congress. constitutional. if it is ever passed by Congress and the filibuster rule, but he does be- the Republican Party will vote for D.C. lacks the power to deploy its Manchin also said he will not signed by Biden. lieve the bill is constitutional be- the addition of Democratic con- National Guard without approv- support the abolition or altering “We assure you that we will cause the space around the nation’s gressional representatives, given al from the federal government, of the filibuster rule in an op-ed in challenge any attempt to provide capital isn’t restricted from state- that more than 75 percent of D.C. which critics say was especially det- the Washington Post. Support from the District of Columbia with the hood. Critics claim the statehood residents are registered Democrats. rimental during the Jan. 6 storming 10 Republicans senators would be actual benefits of statehood if Con- bill is unconstitutional, and state- The slogan, referring to District resi- of the Capitol, when the Army ini- needed to bypass the filibuster, but gress passes it and the president at- hood can only be achieved through dents’ lack of representation in Con- tially denied the District’s request none have signaled support for D.C. tempts to sign it into law,” the letter a constitutional amendment. gress despite paying federal income for deployment. statehood. states. “There is a provision of the Con- taxes, has been stamped onto D.C. “I introduced our D.C. state- Republican attorneys general Political science experts said stitution providing that there shall license plates since 2000. THE GW HATCHET NEWS May 17, 2021 • Page 3 Professors say their mental health has declined throughout academic year DANIEL PATRICK people were worried about served as another stressor GALGANO money if they or their par- on faculty. He said the re- STAFF WRITER ents lost a job.” ports are a sizable document Robinson said the num- compiled by faculty outlin- As the University’s sec- ber of students who need or ing their research and ac- ond fully online semester ask for extensions or accom- complishments for the year, comes to a close, faculty say modations for assignments generally due to depart- stress from the COVID-19 has climbed significantly, ment chairs by early June, pandemic has caused their contributing to the pressures but Hopkins said officials overall mental health to de- that faculty face with grading unexpectedly advanced the cline over the past academic and class organization that deadline for most faculty to year. caused her to experience de- mid-April. Half a dozen faculty lays in grading. She said the “I think a lot of faculty members said learning and number of cases requiring feel we get these kind of teaching have become more accommodations or exten- bland, multi-paragraph difficult over the past year, sions have gone from a few emails from the GW leader- taking a toll on their mental students per lecture before ship that say, ‘We appreci- health given the virtual envi- the pandemic to almost 50 ate you,’ and that’s the level ronment and stressors from percent of the classes – about of support that we’ve been the pandemic. Some faculty 20 to 40 of her students total. given through the pandemic, said the switch to the virtual “More students were which I think is almost bor- learning environment has struggling than I’ve ever dering on insulting,” Hop- also forced a professional seen before,” she said. kins said. and emotional disconnect Benjamin David Hop- Kathryn Kleppinger, an from the GW campus and kins, a professor of history associate professor of french community, while others and international affairs and and francophone studies and PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY CAMILLE DESANTO | ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR said they thought adminis- the director of the Sigur Cen- international affairs and the Faculty said they've felt added pressure to help students throughout the pandemic, but they are hopeful to trators poorly communicat- ter for Asian Studies, said Faculty Association’s trea- return in person for the fall semester. ed plans for the future and he has felt “total alienation” surer and secretary, said the failed to formulate clear aca- from GW as an institution announcement about annual from a lack of communica- among faculty and staff is “a their departments during demic policies, which con- throughout the pandemic reports “really impacts” fac- tion on policy and future lot worse” compared to the the summer and fall se- tributed to their anxiety. because he hasn’t seen an ulty and department chairs planning by administration beginning of the pandemic mesters. Shira Robinson, an asso- “acknowledgement” by GW because it disrupted the pre- officials. due to the general feeling of Rain said he was “very ciate professor of history and leadership for the work fac- dicted faculty workflow and “I asked President LeB- “isolation” and separation upbeat” about the Univer- international affairs, said fac- ulty do and the support they overall evaluation schedules. lanc in a faculty meeting, I from campus. sity’s plans for the sum- ulty operated with an intense give to students. She said officials told faculty actually asked him a ques- “It’s like a ‘Groundhog mer and fall so far. He said professional and personal “I would characterize they moved up the due dates tion point-blank, ‘What is the Day’ situation,” Rain said. he’s “cautiously optimistic” pressures throughout the staff and faculty morale as for the reports to determine fall going to look like for us?’ “You wake up, you go for about the future at GW, giv- pandemic because of a fear of generally low, and I think faculty raises and wage in- and I got the same: ‘We’re in a walk and you work on en the general loosening of contracting the coronavirus, that is in part the conse- creases earlier than usual, a holding pattern and wait- your quizzes and you read coronavirus restrictions in caregiving and family re- quences of the pandemic, but it also caused more stress ing to hear what D.C. tells your emails and it’s just the places like Maryland and sponsibilities, isolation amid which everybody’s strug- for professors. us,’” she said. “There’s a lot of same everyday.” the District and the recent virtual learning and overall gling with,” Hopkins said. “We’re essentially being unknowns and it’s like ‘How Rain said faculty morale Centers for Disease Control uncertainty about the future. “I think it’s in part, a conse- told that we should be happy do you want me to teach?’” and mental health should and Prevention guidance “People have been living quence of the institutional because this is good news, Officials have consistent- improve as faculty can start on mask-wearing, which under an existential, low- culture at GW – the institu- but it threw a wrench in ly maintained that campus returning to work in their says masks aren’t needed grade or high-grade stress tional alienation and discon- many colleagues’ work flow will reopen in the fall semes- offices and communicate for fully vaccinated people level since last March,” Rob- nect – I think is widespread plans without any specifics ter “to the fullest extent pos- directly with students dur- indoors and outdoors. inson said. “People were amongst both faculty and on the benefits of doing so,” sible.” ing the summer and fall. “I hope – fingers crossed worried about getting sick, staff.” Kleppinger said in an email. David Rain, an associate He said “we’ve all lost our – that we will go back to people were worried about He said officials also Kleppinger said some of professor of geography and central place” and hopes a more normal situation, their family members being changed due dates for facul- the stress and mental health international affairs, said that more faculty will be probably early in the fall,” sick or themselves being sick, ty annual reports, which has issues from faculty stem the state of mental health able to return in person to Rain said. Fall study abroad plans remain in flux YANKUN ZHAO opportunities this sum- study abroad program ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR mer, citing the ongoing this month for students pandemic and vaccine interested in learning rollout during the time. about Korean culture and As universities across Officials canceled all history, offering online the country begin to an- study abroad and non-es- site visits and lectures on nounce their decisions sential international travel topics like colonization for fall study abroad pro- this academic year. and the Cold War. grams, officials have yet to Study abroad direc- Scott Marshall, the make a formal announce- tors at other universities president and chief ex- ment on whether they will said the likelihood of pro- ecutive officer of Semester run programs in the fall. gram offerings returning at Sea, said his program After suspending the next fall largely depends currently plans for their programs following the on school policy and the multi-national voyages outbreak of COVID-19 health and travel recom- to return this fall, but be- last spring, officials said mendations from govern- cause of the pandemic, he they’re still exploring op- ment and health organiza- plans to mandate vaccines tions for safe study abroad tions. and reduce the scope of programs in the fall. Ex- With increased vacci- the itinerary that normally perts in international edu- nations worldwide, they spans across continents. cation said many institu- said the return to normal He said he anticipates NICHOLAS ANASTACIO | GRAPHICS EDITOR tions have resumed fall study abroad program- a “pent-up demand” for travel plans while others ming is slowly underway, study abroad from stu- continue to suspend them and the likeliest destina- dents once the pandemic Academic misconduct cases rise at based on travel restric- tions to welcome students passes and travel restric- tions and COVID-19 risks back next fall include Eu- tions are lifted, especially in other countries. rope and some parts of beginning in 2022, which GW, nationwide after virtual year University spokesper- Asia and Latin America. will help programs recov- son Crystal Nosal said The State Department er quicker. LAUREN SFORZA tripled to 40 cases in the 2019- the pandemic and professors officials are still exploring travel advisories currently The European Union CONTRIBUTING NEWS EDITOR 20 academic year, compared have more access to technol- the “potential for return” list about 80 percent of recently announced that to the 11 cases in the 2018-19 ogy tracking programs that to study abroad programs countries under “Level 4: they plan on letting vac- The number of academic academic year. allow them to report academ- in the next academic year Do Not Travel,” the high- cinated U.S. tourists visit integrity reports rose this Anthony said officials ic misconduct cases more eas- as they continue to moni- est warning in the four- beginning this summer. year amid the virtual learn- don’t have indications that ily. tor health and safety con- tier system. Several European coun- ing environment. remote learning over the Camilla Roberts, the cerns globally. She de- Sylvie Burnet-Jones, tries, like Greece, Croatia Christy Anthony, the past year has driven the in- president of the Interna- clined to provide further the interim director of and Iceland, have already director of the Office of - Stu crease in academic integrity tional Center for Academic details about whether education abroad at the begun admitting vaccinat- dents Rights and Respon- violations. She said trends Integrity and the director of programs could resume, University of Colorado at ed travelers. sibilities, said the number show that students continue the Kansas State University how many students are Boulder, said her school Gina Lopardo, the di- of academic integrity cases, to decide against cheating or Honor and Integrity System, currently registered and resumed its study abroad rector of education abroad like cheating and plagiarism, plagiarizing but find them- said academic misconduct what changes officials programs for this past at Seattle University, said has increased throughout selves more likely to cheat reports have more than dou- could implement in the semester with about 75 her school recently sus- the past year during the CO- while “overwhelmed” with bled at Kansas State this year programs in light of the students compared to the pended study abroad VID-19 pandemic. Academic stress due to the circum- compared to two years ago. pandemic. nearly 2,000 students last opportunities for the fall integrity experts said this rise stances brought forth by the She said when students are “We are anticipating a spring. She said programs semester because of its could be attributed to stu- pandemic. stressed or under pressure, transition year for study in Spain and Italy have strict travel policy com- dents’ increased stress levels “For this reason, we con- they may feel like they have abroad opportunities and remained the most popu- pared to other institutions during online instruction tinue to encourage students no other option but to cheat cannot answer specific lar at her institution dur- that have allowed non- and professors’ use of online to plan ahead, seek help and on an assessment to pass the questions until a more ing the pandemic, but the essential travel to resume. proctoring technology with support and ask faculty for class. detailed announcement is limited offerings have also She said announcing their remote learning. clarifications about assign- “If it’s easier to cheat or to made to the community,” piqued students’ interest cancellation decision now “We have seen an in- ment expectations,” he said. take a shortcut, then they’re she said in an email. in locations like South Ko- also prevents students crease in academic integrity “We’ve also found more stu- more likely to do it,” she said. Provost Brian Blake rea and Denmark. from committing to pro- reports during the pandem- dents in academic integrity “And when you have the In- announced in January The GW Institute grams that may have non- ic,” Anthony said in an email. cases benefitting from sup- ternet right at your hands and that the Office of Study for Korean Studies will refundable components, “Whether this is due to in- port resources like counsel- you’re taking an online test, Abroad would suspend launch a virtual summer like deposits. creased faculty attention on ing to help manage the at- it’s easier than if you’re in a academic integrity or an ac- tending stress and challenges classroom and your students tual increase in violations is related to the pandemic.” try to be sly about pulling out not clear, either from our data Anthony said the new a phone or something.” or from national/interna- changes to the Code of Aca- She said the rise of online tional research on academic demic Integrity, which the testing programs like Lock- integrity in remote learning Board of Trustees approved Down Browser may have environments.” last Friday, includes differ- contributed to the number of Anthony said cases in the ent sanctions for academic academic misconduct cases Columbian College of Arts violations, like lessening the reported because they can and Sciences make up nearly consequences for first-time electronically track when 28 percent of the academic offenders. The Faculty Sen- a student leaves the online integrity reports filed dur- ate passed a resolution in test and how much time ing the last seven years, with March to update the Code of they spent on one question. cases in the School of Busi- Academic Integrity to imple- She said more professors are ness tailing behind at 23 per- ment more “educational” using LockDown Browser cent. Reports from the School ways of addressing academic to catch students cheating, of Engineering and Applied misconduct cases, like reduc- which they cannot use for an Science ranked third with 16 ing the consequences for less in-person written exam. percent, and the seven other severe cases and increasing “Professors are being schools each totaled less than the consequences for more more vigilant because they 10 percent. severe cases. realize that it could be easier Anthony declined to Experts in academic in- for students to do this and share the number of academ- tegrity and ethics said cases so they’re checking things ic integrity cases by year. have risen nationwide be- more, but then there’s also a The business school cause students are stressed lot of metadata in online test- FILE PHOTO BY WILLIAM STRICKLETT | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER The State Department travel advisories currently list about 80 percent of countries under the “Level 4: do academic integrity reports due to online learning from ing,” Roberts said. not travel,” the highest in the four-tier system. THE GW HATCHET NEWS May 17, 2021 • Page 4 Rising junior launches bid for Foggy Bottom’s local governing body ZACHARY BLACKBURN ASSISTANT NEWS ESITOR the D.C. Council. The seat, trians, which Harnett said he which covers single-member advocated for when he was district 2A08, encompasses commissioner. A rising junior an- District and Potomac houses, “It’s important that stu- nounced her campaign to fill South, Guthridge, Lafayette dents can feel safe on campus a vacancy on Foggy Bottom’s and Strong halls, Greek life and be able to walk without local governing body last townhouses and the F Street being scared that they’re go- week. House – University Presi- ing to get hit by a car,” they Margaret McDonald, a dent Thomas LeBlanc’s cam- said. “But at the same time, history major, filed to repre- pus residence. I think it’s good for any col- sent students on the Foggy McDonald, the president lege campus to have a spot Bottom and West End Ad- of the progressive student where students can just walk visory Neighborhood Com- organization Persist GW, around and feel comfortable mission last week, pledg- said past struggles they have and feel safe.” ing to promote progressive experienced, like financial McDonald said they want changes like pedestrian difficulties and growing to expand access to men- safety and police reform. If up as an LGBTQ person in strual products to protect elected, McDonald will fill Oklahoma, gives them the menstrual health through the vacancy in the ANC that ability to lead all students at food stamp programs, espe- has left much of GW’s cam- GW and not just those com- cially for those experiencing pus without representation ing from privileged back- homelessness and people since January after former grounds. with lower incomes who commissioner James Har- “Being able to under- may struggle to purchase nett graduated from the Uni- stand the struggle that other menstrual items. They said versity. students would come from a menstrual products need to COURTESY OF MARGARET MCDONALD “The things that matter lower income background, I be immediately available to McDonald said one of their main priorities includes banning cars from H Street, which will improve traffic safety the most are being passion- can very much relate to that,” everyone regardless of gen- on campus and foster a tighter sense of community among students and pedestrians. ate and having a plan to they said. “And I especially der. make tangible change in a just want to be able to advo- McDonald said they will that police members were they have a clear plan for sort of vision that I have for community, which is some- cate to Council members in lobby the D.C. Council to instigating at the protest this change in Foggy Bottom. the neighborhood.” thing that I believe I can and D.C. and the faculty at GW.” defund, and eventually abol- past year,” they said. “I think Harnett said he was excited Harnett said he is excited will be doing with this posi- McDonald said one of ish, the police by growing it’s really important that we when Yannik Omictin, a se- by McDonald’s platform, es- tion,” McDonald said. their main priorities includes the voices of other student push for a general defunding nior and ANC commission- pecially their plan to limit McDonald said they will banning cars from H Street, leaders who advocate for po- of police in D.C., and I really er, reached out to Harnett car access to H Street. push for increased pedes- which will improve traffic lice abolition. McDonald said want to advocate for that to to tell him McDonald was “I’m really excited that trian safety, expanded ac- safety on campus and foster the presence of police at pro- Council members.” interested in running. she’s being bold and setting cess to menstrual products a tighter sense of commu- tests is in itself an instigation Harnett, the ANC’s for- “When Yannik Omictin out a really comprehensive with additions to public nity among students and of violence, and they said mer chair who represented reached out to me to tell me vision for what progressive restrooms in the District pedestrians. McDonald said abolition is necessary. 2A08 as a student, said he that Margaret was interested priorities should look like on and limited police pres- they were initially inspired “Defunding the police knew McDonald before in running for the ANC, it campus and how she’s go- ence in Foggy Bottom by by Harnett, the former com- in D.C. is really important to graduating and believes they felt like a perfect fit,” he said. ing to be playing a big part way of defunding the police missioner, to close H Street to me, especially after all the vi- could be a “great” commis- “Her advocacy with Persist in making that happen,” he with recommendations to cars and open it up to pedes- olence that we saw occurring sioner because he believes meshes very well with the said. Virtual commencement caps historic year

From Page 1 the George Washington University.” The ceremony was also In his opening remarks, interwoven with clips of University President GW’s mascot celebrating Thomas LeBlanc told Commencement, pho- graduates it was a “joy” tos of the Class of 2021 to see them find their pas- throughout their time at sions through “times of GW and short messages change and challenge.” of advice from alumni “Today is the end of like journalists and politi- one chapter and just the cians. beginning of the next,” “I would say this – LeBlanc said. “It is just the don’t be afraid to fail,” beginning of the many alumnus Sen. Mark War- years that you will spend ner, D-Va., said in one of creating a better world the video clips. driven by the pursuit of Provost Brian Blake knowledge, the quest for said in his remarks that innovation and your own the graduating class’s ideals and desire to serve “incredible achievement” others.” first began when they ac- Officials also con- cepted their offer of ad- ferred an honorary Doctor mission to the University. of Public Service degree to “When you decided on former Board of Trustees GW, you chose an educa- Chair Nelson Carbonell. tion unlike any other in FILE PHOTO BY ALEXANDER WELLING Carbonell received a full the world,” Blake said. “You chose to be a mem- The Board also approved a new policy at its meeting Friday on naming that establishes a vetting process to consider institutional risk scholarship to attend GW ber of a diverse and vi- before naming campus spaces or University positions after donors. and received his bach- elor’s degree in electrical brant community of engineering in 1985, serv- scholars populated by ing as Board chair from students, faculty and staff Board of Trustees receives Marvin Center 2013 to 2019. contributing unique per- “Nelson A. Carbonell spectives and experiences renaming recommendations Jr. is not only an excep- that often were unlike tional businessman and your own.” ISHA TRIVEDI sity President Thomas LeB- ficials reserve the right to and nominations, said at entrepreneur – he’s also Board Chair Grace NEWS EDITOR lanc planned to share the revoke the name of a build- the meeting. a tireless advocate for the Speights said as gradu- recommendations on the ing or academic position if Officials will also take George Washington Uni- ates leave the University Board of Trustees Chair Marvin Center name first the name’s continued use “due diligence” before rec- versity,” LeBlanc, who and become future lead- Grace Speights said trust- before handing over those could risk the University’s ommending naming op- was hired by a search led ers, they will have the ees have received recom- for the Colonials moniker. reputation. portunities for groups like by Carbonell, said. “His support of their friends, mendations from the Mar- The special committees The policy requires corporations to avoid the longtime commitment family and the GW com- vin Center naming task charged with assessing the Board approval for naming appearance of commercial to the University includ- munity. force but have yet to start two renaming requests re- opportunities that could influence or a conflict of ing his leadership for the “The world is chang- the consideration process. leased historical materials pose “substantial reputa- interest, according to the Board of Trustees and ex- ing rapidly, and we need Speights declined to that catalogued the devel- tional risk” to the Univer- policy. traordinary philanthropy, leaders to help guide us to provide a timeline on when opment of the moniker and sity associated with aca- The policy states that has been transformation- a better future,” she said. the Board may reach a deci- the racist legacy of former demic positions, programs the University can revoke al, advancing research, “You are those leaders. It sion on the Marvin Center’s University President Cloyd or buildings and requires a naming opportunity academic excellence and is a great responsibility, name and said officials will Heck Marvin last year. administration approval from a donor if the donor student success.” but you are not alone.” consider the recommenda- “I think the president for names of lecture series, does not fulfill the obliga- Carbonell said he was LeBlanc closed the cer- tions “as soon as possible.” reported we would start fellowships and landscap- tions outlined in their gift honored to receive the emony by conferring de- The completion of recom- with the Marvin Center ing. agreement or if the Board degree and “never could grees to the class of 2021 mendations comes nearly first – that’s the first report “Over the course of the determines that a contin- have imagined” when he along with the deans of a year after the Board ap- we got, and then the Co- year, the committee and ued use of the name may was an undergraduate at GW’s 10 schools. proved a framework for lonial moniker,” Speights the administration dis- “compromise the public GW the impact the Uni- “Graduates, you have considering name change said in an interview. cussed the types of infor- trust or reputation of the versity would have on earned this moment,” requests for University The Board also ap- mation gathering, review University.” him. LeBlanc said. “You are buildings last June and proved a new policy on and approvals that should “The proposed policy “I only hope I can prepared to succeed and later established two com- naming at its meeting Fri- preceed associating any changes shift Board ap- give back to GW all that to lead. May you carry mittees last July to consider day, establishing a vetting name with the excellent proval of naming opportu- GW has given to me and your GW education and the renaming requests for process before naming name and reputation of the nities from a dollar thresh- to make my alma mater your commitment to serve the Marvin Center and the campus spaces or Univer- University,” Mark Chiches- old to one of assessing proud,” he said. “Today others and to have a posi- Colonials moniker. sity positions after donors. ter, the chair of the Board’s institutional risk,” Chich- and every day, I am proud tive impact on our world Speights said Univer- The policy states that of- committee on governance ester said. to say I am an alumnus of with you every day.” University managed safe campus throughout pandemic: experts

selected a safe course,” Stein said. will develop in the summer. She vaccines,” Stein said. “I think right of faculty and staff that put out di- From Page 1 Other universities faced higher said universities need to be pre- now, we want to focus on encour- rectives, basically make the poli- percentage positivity rates, with pared “to pivot” and adjust their aging as many people as possible cies and change them as needed.” the University of Notre Dame plans according to the informa- and educating them to get their Ambrose said the University She said positivity rates on uni- facing a 20.6 percent rate and the tion they receive about the virus vaccines.” of Pittsburgh, one of GW’s peer versity campuses can fluctuate University of Alabama recording in the next few months. Zandrea Ambrose, an associ- schools, said remote learning has throughout the semester, but over 29 percent positivity at the begin- Stein said the question of ate professor of microbiology and been particularly hard on profes- the last two weeks, UIC’s highest ning of their semesters in person whether GW’s choice to mandate molecular genetics at the Univer- sors who lead classes that depend percent positivity rate was 0.55 in late August. GW’s positivity the vaccine was the right one is sity of Pittsburgh, said universi- on using lab materials in person. percent compared to GW’s seven- rate in late August reached 0.86 “tricky.” She said schools require ties now implement “rigorous” “I think many of us who work day rolling average of 0.06 percent. percent, and its peer institutions vaccination for many other dis- coronavirus policies, because in laboratories, definitely myself Stein said it’s hard to tell what Georgetown and Northeastern eases like measles, but institutions they have much more information and all of the people working in would have happened if GW had universities recorded 0.32 and should be careful that imposing a available to them, like CDC guide- my lab have been vaccinated,” opened campus for in-person 0.28 percent positivity rates, re- vaccine requirement doesn’t turn lines, than they did at the start of Ambrose said. “So I’m hoping that learning this semester, but GW’s spectively. people away from vaccination. the pandemic. we can get back to sort of working percentage positivity rate with re- Stein said universities are find- “Sometimes by making things “I think our knowledge is very in a normal situation where more mote learning was relatively low. ing it difficult to make concrete mandatory, it can turn some peo- different now, so I think we tend people can be within the lab at “The fact that you’ve had a low plans for the fall semester since ple off who may otherwise have to go by CDC guidelines,” Am- one particular time or all day as percent positivity shows that GW it’s still unclear how the pandemic been convinced to go and get their brose said. “There’s a committee needed.” THE GW HATCHET NEWS May 17, 2021 • Page 5 Humanities Center advanced interdisciplinary research in first year SAMANTHA SERAFIN STAFF WRITER pandemic. He said they launched applications to select researchers to become involved once officials The virtual Humanities Center approved funding for the center has provided professors and stu- last summer by following a proce- dents opportunities to collaborate dure similar to other competitive on interdisciplinary humanities applications that the OVPR uses. research since its founding last Eleven humanities profes- fall. sors were selected as fellows and Faculty involved with the cen- received $1,000 each in research ter said the virtual space allowed funds, and a paid undergraduate professors to foster and advance research assistant who could help their ongoing research projects out for up to 60 hours per semes- in the humanities, like investiga- ter was also recruited. Cohen-Cole tions into historical crises and said the center’s fellows presented upheavals, through University’s their work-in-progress projects to funding and student assistants. each other virtually throughout They said the center’s inaugural the past year by participating in annual theme of “Culture in Cri- biweekly virtual center gather- sis” was partly inspired by the ings and invited an outside speak- pandemic and incorporates schol- er to present their insight on these ars’ work examining societies humanities topics earlier this year. that have been “under pressure,” “We want to have a kind of like those that have experienced broad umbrella that a lot of people plagues and political crises. could participate in but also have Jamie Cohen-Cole, the co-di- an organizing approach, so that rector of the center and a profes- people who are working in one or sor of American studies, said he another subfield of the humanities and Lynn Westwater, the other would have a common basis for a co-director and a professor of Ital- conversation,” Cohen-Cole said. ian, created the center to “rectify He said he hopes the cen- FILE PHOTO BY GRAEME SLOAN Wald said people often underestimate the “transformative” value humanities scholarship contributes to the production of critical missing components” of the Uni- ter will increase its “footprint” thinking. versity’s research profile, especial- among undergraduates next se- ly since all of GW’s market basket mester to include student fellows University community members majority of expenses as opposed manities Center fellow, said the schools have humanities centers. and more paid research assistants. have expressed concerns that the to experiment and lab costs. grant to conduct research and hire Cohen-Cole said creating a center Cohen-Cole said hiring research University’s strategic plan, which “A $5,000 grant, which would a research assistant provided by to connect humanities researchers assistants is contingent upon the has been made “obsolete” due to barely buy a piece of equipment the Center helped him complete at GW has been a decades-long funding the center receives and the pandemic, over-emphasized for a chemistry lab, goes a really the final chapter of his book “Cap- conversation but a lack of funding would allow students to gain greater STEM research and over- long way in supporting someone italism and Impunity: Exceptions prevented the formation of one valuable research experience. looked GW’s strengths in humani- who needs to visit archives,” Wald in Economic History.” He said his until the past year. “We are committed to the idea ties research. said. research assistant helped him sort “This is an idea which is nei- that research could be something Gayle Wald, a professor of Three professors with proj- through countless volumes of dig- ther new to GW nor new to uni- that could be done both by profes- American studies and member ects in the center said the virtual ital bank data archives during the versities generally,” Cohen-Cole sors and also done by students,” of the steering committee, said space allowed them to approach pandemic, which he would not said. “The effort was to fill a hole he said. people often underestimate the humanities research with an in- have been able to do on his own that GW has that other universi- Cohen-Cole said while infor- “transformative” value humani- terdisciplinary angle by exchang- while teaching classes. ties have well represented.” mal face-to-face conversations ties scholarship contributes to the ing feedback with each other, and “I had to change tactics and use Cohen-Cole said he and West- have been limited, the center ben- production of critical thinking, they could work with other hu- digitized material while teaching, water presented the idea for the efited from more virtual network- like ideas about race, sexuality manities scholars outside of their and so that meant one person try- center to the Office of the Vice ing opportunities as part of the and gender. She said humanities specific fields of study through ing to go through 50 volumes of President for Research last year online environment. scholars require much less fund- the virtual learning environment handwritten bank data would just after the office announced fund- Humanities research consisted ing than researchers in other aca- during the pandemic. be impossible,” he said. “So hav- ing opportunities for faculty who of less than 1 percent of the Uni- demic fields because travel and Trevor Jackson, an assistant ing a research assistant to help me were doing research related to the versity’s expenditures in 2019. access to archives make up the professor of history and a Hu- with that was invaluable.”

SEAS professor studies how to speed up turnaround times for COVID-19 tests NICHOLAS PASION to the time labs return the able to double the num- STAFF WRITER results. She said this soft- ber of tests it can process ware model tracks people weekly if the individuals A professor from the until they get tested, and performing them at test- School of Engineering and then it switches to track the ing locations throw out the Applied Science hopes to time samples take for pro- used testing swabs instead implement a model that will cessing. of placing them in the con- speed up the turnaround “At that point, we track tainment tubes. Gralla said time of test results in the the sample instead,” Gralla before testing sites dispose University’s COVID-19 lab said. “It waits until a batch of the swab, they need to this summer. of samples is ready for dip the swab in the contain- Erica Gralla, an associ- transport to the laboratory. ment tube, which holds a ate professor of systems Then the entire batch goes biohazard liquid that will engineering, said she has on the laboratory steps.” remove the live parts of the been conducting research at Gralla said the UMD lab virus. the University of Maryland conducts Polymerase Chain “After the swab is since the start of the pan- Reaction tests, and labs took swirled in the liquid that demic. During her research, three to 10 days to return preserves the sample in the she found that back-end test results at the beginning tube, it is no longer a bio- testing issues that arise in of the pandemic. Clinics hazard and can be safely the lab, such as removing that send their PCR tests to thrown out,” she said in an swabs from test tubes, are labs for processing can still email. tedious and slow the output take more than a week to Patti Gravitt, a professor of test results. Gralla said return results, according to of epidemiology and public she plans to work with her Healthline. health at UMD who con- students this summer to Gralla said increasing ducted lab research with gather data about GW’s CO- turnaround times for test Gralla, said a faster and VID-19 lab so she can carry results can decrease coro- more robust testing sys- COURTESY OF ERICA GRALLA AND GW SYNERGY over her research from navirus transmission rates tem will give officials more Gralla said increasing turnaround times for test results can decrease COVID-19 transmission rates UMD to the GW lab and because infected individu- information to determine because infected individuals will know to quarantine themselves sooner. speed up the turnaround als will know to quarantine when communities will ex- times for coronavirus tests themselves sooner. perience higher transmis- economy opening up.” offer less “sensitivity” and faster test a “part of every- at the University. Gralla said once test- sion rates, which will influ- Gravitt said the discrete accuracy but could be a pos- day life” can help slow the “We plan to adapt the ing samples arrive to labs ence public policy decisions event simulation model sible solution to maintain- spread of the virus and is models to represent the in containment tubes that like when to reopen the could be compared to oth- ing speed with accuracy in the only way of knowing process at GW’s lab,” Gralla hold the nasal swab, scien- economy. er laboratories to examine the testing process. when it is safe for people to said in an email. “The steps tists at the lab must begin “What we want the test- what other elements of the Coronavirus tests vary join group activities. and their sequence are “deswabbing” – removing ing system to do for CO- testing process researchers in response time, with “The only way to really similar but not exactly the the swab from the tube – to VID is one to provide real could improve. molecular PCR tests, also know that for sure is take same, and the lab will also analyze the virus particles time surveillance, so we Paul Yager, an adjunct known as nucleic acid tests, a sample of their noses or have slightly different pro- and provide a test result. can identify on a popula- professor of global health, taking anywhere between nasal cavities and find out cessing times for each step.” She said her research found tion level when we’re start- chemistry and oral health 48 to 72 hours to return, an- the virus is present in their Gralla said she used on- that pulling the swab out ing to move to more com- sciences at the University tibody tests taking three to noses at that moment,” he line discrete event simula- of the test containment munity transmission or of Washington, said rapid five days and rapid antigen said. “Any delay between tion models in her research, tube serves as the the main less community transmis- antigen tests can serve as a tests taking less than half the time in which you test which show the flow of bottleneck in the UMD CO- sion,” Gravitt said. “And quicker alternative to nucle- an hour to produce results, and the time in which people and testing samples VID-19 testing lab, since it is that helps us to make good ic acid tests, which are com- according to Healthline. someone performs an activ- through the testing process “tedious and manual.” policies of when we need to monly conducted at drive- The University’s COVID-19 ity like visiting someone in from the time individuals She said her model pre- be more restrictive or less in sites where tests are sent lab offers PCR tests. the nursing home, the big- arrive at a testing location dicts the UMD lab will be restrictive in terms of the to a lab. He said these tests Yager said making a ger the uncertainty.” Graduates celebrate commencement with vaccinated friend groups they would prefer an in-person or “This entire week has just been She said as a first generation stu- ed,” she said. “So I think it makes From Page 1 remote ceremony, and she doesn’t like a graduation week,” she said. dent, graduating will be an espe- me personally feel safer going to know of many who selected the re- “Everyone’s in town and they’ve cially “sentimental” experience, something where I know people Mari Guerra, a public health ma- mote option, also noting the long been staying here at our place. So and although she can’t walk across are vaccinated and I know people jor, said she flew to D.C. from Con- span of time between the survey’s it’s just been like a week of mini- the stage, she is still excited to cel- are really trying to keep things necticut, where she lived during release and Commencement’s can- celebrations.” ebrate with her family in a small outside, which is also really help- the entire academic year, to cel- cellation. Tapia said she thought it was group. ful.” ebrate Commencement with her “They want to hear from our “preemptive” of officials to call “I’m a first gen student, so She said it was “disappoint- small group of fully vaccinated opinions, but it was just a lot of off graduation, but she appreciates graduation is a big deal for my ing” that GW was one of the only friends to take group graduation time between there so I wish there the effort to still celebrate the Class family,” she said. “So it’s a little schools in the DMV area to have no pictures together around campus was maybe more communication,” of 2021, even if in smaller ways like disappointing that we don’t get to element of in-person Commence- after being fully vaccinated. She she said. “Even between profes- sending students boxes with Com- walk across the stage, but it’s still ment. Georgetown University said being vaccinated was a prior- sors and the school to let us know mencement-related merchandise. super sentimental. So, even if it administrators announced their ity for her before she planned any maybe during classes or just even “I will say the boxes caught is online and just a slideshow or decision last month to hold an in- type of small group gathering or more check-ins and stuff like that me by surprise,” she said. “They something, it’s still a big deal. So person Commencement at Nation- celebration with friends. too as well could have improved sent out little graduation boxes I’m excited.” als Park, and American University “It really does make you feel that. It’s just very hard virtually to and mine just got to Seattle yes- Feijoo said while she’s been liv- will hold an in-person ceremony better, because it’s a level of protec- do things.” terday. That was like a nice little ing on campus during the spring at Bender Stadium, where gradu- tion that you didn’t have before,” Adriana Tapia said she lived touch. I did not expect that at all. semester, she has attended celebra- ates will receive a link to sign up she said. “But you know, the risk in D.C. this year and is having I would’ve preferred a graduation tions that her friends hosted, like a for a 15-minute procession to walk of getting COVID and the concern friends and family fly in to cel- over a box, but yeah.” rooftop dinner in D.C. and a day to across the stage. is always there. ebrate with planned events like Adriana Feijoo, a political sci- take pictures around campus. She She said although she is dis- Guerra said she wished she kayaking in the Tidal Basin, hik- ence major, said she will celebrate said she feels safer knowing she appointed in the decision to stay had seen better communication ing, going out to brunch and tak- partially in D.C. and partially at can celebrate her and her friends’ virtual for commencement, she between administrators and the ing pictures on the Mall. She said her home in Illinois, where she accomplishments with a low risk understands GW is trying “their graduating class about plans for she decided to organize gradua- plans to hold an outdoor celebra- of contracting the virus. best,” and she’s trying to stay Commencement. She said ad- tion plans because everyone she tion to watch the Commencement “One of my friends is having positive moving forward toward ministrators emailed graduating will be celebrating with will be ceremony on Facebook Live with a rooftop grad party with like 15 a master’s degree from the Univer- students a survey asking whether fully vaccinated. a small group of family members. people and everyone is vaccinat- sity of Maryland next year. WHAT THE UNIVERSITY WON'T TALK ABOUT THIS WEEK The number of academic integrity violations during the last academic year p. 3

FROM GWHATCHET.COM/OPINIONS

“I harbor the guilt of climate change like it’s a part of a shady past I’m ashamed of.” May 17, 2021 • Page 6 Opinions -SHREEYA ARANAKE 5/10/21 It’s time for the Senate to pass D.C. statehood STAFF EDITORIAL Over the past few months, D.C. wards. statehood has come closer than D.C.’s citizens – a plurality ever to becoming a reality. The of whom are Black – have been U.S. House of Representatives subjected to years of purely passed a bill last month that political and unnecessarily would make the District the 51st partisan rationales for denying state, and pressure is building them a say in their own on the evenly split U.S. Senate to government. For statehood take up the legislation. to pass, 60 out of the 100 U.S. Arguments for D.C. statehood senators need to support the have always been ironclad and bill. Currently, four Democratic persuasive. It is, for example, senators remain undecided on a clear racial justice issue, and the bill, while all Republican taxation without representation senators are opposed to is just plain unfair. But between statehood. Sen. Joe Manchin, not being able to defend itself D-W.Va., and the entire from the Capitol riot and being Senate GOP have declared shortchanged with COVID-19 their opposition to statehood. assistance, D.C.’s traumatic year Among the Republican caucus, has made even clearer what was opposition stems from a handful already true: D.C. needs to be a of spurious claims that are state, and GW students should merely an excuse to not give join those advocacy efforts. representation to a city that When the U.S. Capitol was happens to skew Democratic. sacked by extremists, it took There are plenty of ways hours for the National Guard for students and the entire to respond. As rioters smashed GW community to advocate windows and disrupted the for D.C. statehood. For one, we peaceful transfer of power, can call the senators from our Mayor Muriel Bowser urgently home states who don’t support requested support from the statehood and encourage them D.C. National Guard – which is to do so. If you are from Maine, controlled by the White House West Virginia or Arizona, at and Defense Department, least one of your Democratic not the District. At first, the senators has yet to throw their White House flat-out denied weight behind the bill. If you are the request, before eventually from a state with one or more ordering deployment. Then- Republican senators, then it’s acting Secretary of Defense Chris time to make some calls to their Miller admitted to Congress last By Staff Cartoonist offices as well. week that it took two hours and As students, we are guests a frantic call from then-Vice to deploy emergency personnel. have cost lives. As coronavirus between the 700,000 residents here in the capitol, and it’s President Mike Pence – who had That could have saved lives and vaccines began to roll out of the city and the hundreds important that we give back to been whisked out of the building stopped the most galling attack to states, D.C. found itself of thousands of Virginia and the D.C. community we’re so as rioters threatened to hang on the seat of U.S. government shafted by the allocation plans. Maryland residents who come lucky to be a part of. Students him – for him to finally give the since the War of 1812. Because the federal government here to work during the day. must treat statehood as the green light for deployment. But the Capitol riot is not the doled out doses based on the This partially contributed to the moral imperative it is and Had D.C. been a state, it only instance in the past few number of residents and not garish disparities in vaccination continue fighting for adequate would have been Bowser’s months alone where the tug-of- the city’s commuter-adjusted rates early on between affluent, representation for the place we decision, not that of the man who war between the District and population, the District was mainly White wards and lower- call home during our time at sparked the riot, whether or not the federal government may stuck splitting its doses income, predominantly Black GW. Students should engage in advocacy to Officials must ensure all fall respond to India’s COVID-19 crisis classes have in-person option s an Indian American, long-term. privileges in India made way niversity Presi- effective, the Moderna numbers, then return- I’ve been feeling There are ways in which for our lives in the United dent Thomas vaccine was shown to ing to some semblance conflicted about the the GW community can and States. LeBlanc said be 94.1 percent effective of normalcy must be a Aprogress that the United States should respond. Donations Similar to former Ulast week that the ad- and the Johnson & John- top priority. The com- has made in immunizing to nonprofit organizations, President Donald Trump’s ministration was “ac- son vaccine was shown munity’s mental health ourselves against COVID-19 in like Direct Relief and the response to the coronavirus, tively planning for an to be 74.4 percent effec- is on the line if admin- comparison the horror India American India Foundation, many have accused Modi in-person fall.” This tive at protecting against istrators don’t allow stu- is facing. At the same time are crucial to alleviating the of being more obsessed comes a few weeks after symptomatic disease dents to return to fully I can stroll into the doctor’s lack of resources needed to with projecting a rosier the administration an- in the United States, as in-person classes. office to get my second dose of combat the virus, like oxygen narrative of the government’s nounced that they will well as 100 percent effec- The educational con- the vaccine, my fellow Indian cylinders and ventilators. handling of the pandemic require all students and tive against severe cases. sequences of in-person Americans and I have family Several organizations are than acknowledging the true faculty who will be on Moreover, as of April 26, learning are also dire. I members whose lives are at also focusing on donating severity of the situation and campus in the fall to be only 9,245 people — out can speak from personal risk if they step outside of to India’s marginalized acting to help those who are fully vaccinated so that of more than 95 million experience that focus- their homes. The dichotomy communities, who are dying of the disease. India’s students can have as who were fully vacci- ing on class material is between the two situations projected to be hit harder by solicitor general, Tushar much in-person instruc- nated — contracted CO- much harder in a vir- underscores the experience the virus. Using social media Mehta – a member of the tion as possible. Officials VID-19. This means that tual setting than during of reaping the privileges that stories and posts can be useful Bharatiya Janata Party – have said they expect fewer than 0.01 percent in-person classes. Ac- come along with residing in a to spread the word and make called those who are asking to offer remote options of Americans who have cording to one survey rich country while still feeling it easier for friends and family for oxygen “cry babies,” while to accommodate the been fully vaccinated from Digital Promise, deeply connected to one with to contribute. Union Health Minister Harsh “varying needs of our were infected with the as many as 79 percent fewer resources. But it is also important that Vardhan claimed that India community” but have virus. The science is of students said stay- the Indian diaspora at GW, was better prepared to beat yet to make an official clear: Once someone is ing motivated was a Shreeya Aranake especially those of us who COVID-19 this year than 2020 announcement on class fully vaccinated, they problem in the online Contributing Opinions Editor hail from upper-caste Hindu just last week. settings for the fall. are essentially immune environment. That same backgrounds, engage in This is most definitely to COVID-19. survey found that the discussions that address the not the first time Modi’s Jack Elbaum For this reason, of- percent of students who Coronavirus infections extent to which Prime Minister governance has harmed Columnist ficials from the U.S. were “satisfied” with continue to rage on in India. Narendra Modi’s government marginalized groups in India, Centers for Disease Con- their course dropped by Only 10 percent of the played a significant role in and the continuing support trol and Prevention an- nearly a third, while the Indian population has been the negligent handling of the he and his party receives from The University has nounced Thursday that amount of students who inoculated with at least one first and second waves of the upper-caste Hindus who have every right to impose fully vaccinated people were “dissatisfied” more dose of a coronavirus vaccine, pandemic in India. immigrated to America is this vaccine mandate, can return to most of than tripled. At this as opposed to 47 percent of Modi and his allies have troubling. If we are to combat and administrators their normal activities point, it is quite clear the American population. been downplaying the true this support, it is important should allow us to re- with no masks and no that educational quality Meanwhile in the United extent of the pandemic, and that many of us confront turn to normal in the social distancing. The suffers when students States, lawmakers are having have even gone to the lengths our own biases so we don’t fall rather than relegat- CDC says fully vacci- are forced to “learn” in a hard time trying to herd of changing laws to choke off pass the ones that we might ing students to their nated people no longer an online format. their constituents into a CVS foreign aid. If the diaspora have inherited from Modi- residence halls to at- have to wear masks Considering what or Walgreens to get a dose intends to both alleviate the supporting family members tend any virtual classes indoors, nor do they has been laid out, it is of vaccines that are simply current crisis and prevent on to our children. whatsoever. The efficacy have to quarantine or extremely hard to see lying around, and some that a similar one, it needs to The short-term help of the vaccine and the get tested for COVID-19 why there could be any are even going to waste. constantly engage with the we can provide to India is adverse consequences if they come in contact reason to keep students Ohio Governor Mike DeWine political developments in dependent on how much associated with online with someone infected online for even one class even announced that five India by speaking to Modi- money we can give. This effort school make it clear that with the virus. These next semester. The sci- vaccinated residents have supporting friends and family. is well underway, as wealthy it would be unaccept- reams of data, along ence is clear when it the chance to win $1 million We also need to acknowledge Indian Americans who work able for any classes this with CDC guidelines, comes to the efficacy of in an effort to incentivize the diversity within the in tech and business sectors fall to be held complete- should eliminate any vaccines, and the data unvaccinated individuals to Indian American and South generously donated millions ly online. concerns GW might is clear when it comes get a shot. Asian community so that our of dollars that will help Most importantly, have about reopening. A to the mental health Needless to say, it’s beliefs about Indian politics expand hospital capacity and in-person classes will review of 130 studies on and educational conse- hard to feel elated about can come from a place of oxygen production. To avoid not present any type COVID-19 transmission quences of remaining the United States’ progress greater awareness rather than a crisis like this one in the of significant risk be- rates in schools showed online. Vaccines are the while seeing the horrific inheriting the biases that our future, it is crucial that each cause everybody on that they did not create cure to this pandemic, headlines updating the world parents might have. Those of us engage in discussions GW’s campus will be community outbreaks. and administrators on the second wave of the of us who do hail from more that think critically about vaccinated in the fall. The mental health should make sure to pandemic in India. But there privileged backgrounds must Indian politics and Modi’s These vaccines are ex- of both adults and teen- treat them as such. are actionable steps that the educate ourselves on caste government in particular. traordinarily effective agers has significantly –Jack Elbaum, a fresh- Indian diaspora can take that politics, through books and –Shreeya Aranake, a junior — during initial trials, worsened during the man majoring in interna- could make a positive impact long-form articles, so that majoring in history, is the the Pfizer vaccine was COVID-19 pandemic. If tional affairs and econom- on India both in the short- and we are cognizant of how our contributing opinions editor. shown to be 95 percent we want to curb these ics, is a columnist.

The GW Lia DeGroot, editor in chief Submissions — Deadlines for submissions are Friday 5 p.m. for Monday issues. They must include the author’s Jared Gans, managing editor Nuria Diaz, contributing sports editor* Grace Miller, design editor* name, title, year in school and phone number. The GW Hatchet Zach Schonfeld, managing editor Grace Hromin, senior photo editor Isabella MacKinnon, contributing design editor Hatchet does not guarantee publication and reserves the Hannah Thacker, managing director Camille DeSanto, assistant photo editor Nicholas Anastacio, graphics editor right to edit all submissions for space, grammar and clarity. Jarrod Wardwell, senior news editor Danielle Towers, assistant photo editor Aaron Kovacs, web developer Submit to [email protected] 609 21st St. NW Isha Trivedi, news editor Sophia Moten, assistant photo editor Diego Mendoza, web developer Washington, D.C. 20052 Abby Kennedy, assistant news editor Sophia Young, assistant photo editor Amy Liu, social media director Policy Statement — The GW Hatchet is produced by Michelle Vassilev, assistant news editor Sabrina Godin, contributing photo editor Molly Kaiser, contributing social media direc- Hatchet Publications Inc., an independent, non-profit gwhatchet.com | @gwhatchet Yankun Zhao, assistant news editor Dante Schultz, video editor tor corporation. All comments should be addressed to the Zachary Blackburn, assistant news editor Amanda Plocharski, assistant video editor Sidney Lee, contributing social media director Board of Directors, which has sole authority for the [email protected] Lauren Sforza, contributing news editor Thais Kolganov, assistant video editor * denotes member of editorial board content of this publication. Opinions expressed in signed [email protected] Ishani Chettri, blog editor Alec Rich, podcast host columns are those of the authors and do not necessarily [email protected] Andrew Sugrue, opinions editor* Sarah Sachs, podcast host reflect the view of The GW Hatchet. All content of The [email protected] Shreeya Aranake, contributing opinions Ciara Regan, podcast producer GW Hatchet is copyrighted and may not be reproduced editor* Jaden DiMauro, copy editor* Business Office without written authorization from the editor in chief. [email protected] Anna Boone, culture editor* Nicholas Pasion, research assistant Andrew Shlosh, business manager [email protected] Clara Duhon, contributing culture editor Samantha Serafin, research assistant Tyler Loveless, accounting manager Cost — Single copies free. Additional copies available for [email protected] Roman Bobek, sports editor Sejal Govindarao, research assistant Meredith Polk, sales representative purchase upon request. THE GW HATCHET May 17, 2021 • Page 7 THE WASHINGTON, D.C. VIRTUAL CAREER ALEXANDER VON HUMBOLDT AND THE SCENE AND JOB FAIR UNITED STATES: ART, NATURE AND CULTURE May 25 • Free • Online Registration May 22 • Free • Smithsonian American Art Participate in online interviews with Museum nationally recognized employers to find Discover more than 100 pieces of artifacts in your next job. an exhibition on the influential explorer.

RELEASED NEW ALBUM: “THE OFF-SEASON” BY J. COLE CultureMay 17, 2021 • Page 6 THIS WEEK: Corcoran senior explores racism in the medical industry in thesis film CLARA DUHON CONTRIBUTING CULTURE EDITOR Sturgis said her personal ex- perience with the medical indus- try has been “isolating,” and even Racism within doctor-patient though Black women can stick up relationships in the medical in- for themselves in the doctor’s of- dustry takes center stage in one fice, they are disproportionately theatre student’s senior thesis called “aggressive” or said to be film. “over exaggerating” their pain. Hannah Rose Sturgis, who She said when she’s asked her majored in theatre and journalism doctors explanatory questions, and mass communication, wrote, she’s seen a “horrifying” lack of edited and starred in the one- empathy from physicians who woman film “Blood Real Red.” won’t respond to her and have The film follows Lady, a young made her cry. Black woman in Delaware, for Sturgis said the film is very more than a decade as she encoun- personal to her, not only because ters doctors who discriminate she drew on her own experiences against her because of her race. while writing the play, but be- The project is part of this year’s in- cause she also stars in it. She said stallment of NEXT, the Corcoran she learned from Sandra Davis, School of Art and Design’s annual associate professor and assistant display of seniors’ end-of-year dean for diversity, equity and in- projects. clusion at the school of nursing Sturgis said she had planned about how racism can affect peo- to perform her project live as a ple mentally to the point where play but ended up making it into a they don’t always recognize racist film because of the pandemic incidents. Lady’s doctors ignore her pain, Sturgis said she hopes view- caused by an unspecified illness ers of the film will do what Lady’s and play into hurtful stereotypes, doctors failed to — listen to her. like telling Lady she should use PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY SOPHIA YOUNG | ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR She said she wants her audience to birth control at age 15 even after Sturgis said the character Lady is loosely based on her own experiences and conversations she’s had with other Black women. walk away from the film having she made clear she was not sexu- “stepped” into someone else’s ex- ally active. The film also explores periences and learned from them. intergenerational trauma, as Lady “numb” to it. She said Lady derstand the ways in which rac- versations she’s had throughout She said performing in a vir- observes her mother expressing blames herself for inviting the ste- ism infiltrates her life, as the film her life with friends and recent tual setting was difficult, but she doubts about Lady’s doctors, hav- reotypes and discrimination the shows Lady facing racism from advice from medical professionals used her understanding of how to ing already gone through her own doctors wrongfully project onto both medical practitioners and in who are Black women. She said run a play online that she gained discriminatory experiences with her, like thinking her doctor was her daily life. the issues of medical discrimina- after performing in a virtual pro- physicians. insistent that she go on birth con- Sturgis said Lady’s character tion and racism is “constantly” on duction of Antigone with The Pro- Sturgis said Lady initially in- trol because she presented herself is loosely based on her own ex- her mind, which led her to tell the gram of Theatre and Dance, which ternalizes the racism she faces as too “slutty.” periences, but she developed the story of a Black woman neglected streamed online last fall due to the to a point at which she becomes Sturgis said Lady comes to un- character after reflecting on con- by her doctors. pandemic.

Upcoming summer concerts in and around D.C. ANNA BOONE Boy and Weezer ●Aug 9 – New Order CULTURE EDITOR The Stadium Tour: Mötley 10475 Little Patuxent Crüe and Def Leppard Parkway. Columbia, Mary- With the vaccine rollout 1500 S Capitol St. SE. land. Tickets range from $15 underway and COVID-19 Tickets range from $30 to to $167 depending on the restrictions loosening, it’s $750 depending on concert concert. time to start thinking about and stadium area. which concerts you’ll want DC JazzFest at The to hit this summer. Merriweather Post Wharf We’ve compiled a com- Pavilion DC Jazzfest is an an- prehensive list of mainly Merriweather Post Pa- nual event with the back- outdoor concerts occur- vilion is an ideal outdoor ing of a nonprofit organiza- ring in and around D.C. concert venue located in tion. While the festival is this summer and early fall Symphony Woods, a huge only for a few days every so you don’t have to dig plot of land in Columbia, year, the nonprofit aims through Google. Most in- Maryland, about a 50-min- to provide music educa- door concert venues only ute drive from the city. If tion throughout the year have shows scheduled you can snag a Zipcar or to “underserved commu- starting in September, but ride, this venue is hosting nities,” through the DCJF these locations are ideal for a huge selection of concerts Education Program. The outdoor concerts. ranging from hard rock festival will be free to the ANTHONY PELTIER | PHOTOGRAPHER From Green Day and to jazz. Since COVID-19 public and hosted at The Ask for a few toppings at Thomas Sweet to make your own personalized combination. Weezer at National Park to guidelines are subject to Wharf’s main pier. Along Firefly Festival, a day trip change, the venue will “fol- with standard COVID-19 away, headlined by artists low guidance from local safety guidelines as per like Lizzo, Billie Eilish and and state health depart- D.C. guidelines, the festi- The Killers, here are a few ment officials in place at val provides guests, artists Ice cream spots around the District upcoming concerts you the time of the show,” ac- and community members can put on your calendar: cording to the website. with a page of COVID-19 for hot summer days ● July 2 – W3 Festival: resources on its website. Nationals Park Kix, Slaughter, Heaven’s Sept. 1 through 5 ANNA BOONE ally to serve in addition to sandwich, banana split or This stadium is good Edge and The Iron Maid- ● Regina Carter ● Ma- CULTURE EDITOR the classic flavors. “cake explosion,” which for more than baseball – it ens● July 3 – W3 Festival: ria Schneider Orchestra ● 720 C St. SE. Open Mon- is a piece of cake with the also makes the ideal, spa- Queensryche, Accept, The Spanish Harlem Or- CLARA DUHON day through Thursday 2 to 7 choice of two ice cream cious concert venue. In be- Winger, Steven Adler, chestra ● Orrin Evans Pres- CONTRIBUTING p.m., Friday 2 to 9 p.m. and scoops and three toppings. tween baseball games this Steelheart Bulletboys Hur- ents “Terreno Comum” ● CULTURE EDITOR weekends noon to 9 p.m. 1142 Maine Ave. SW. summer, Nationals Park ricane and Enuff Z’nuff ● Lakecia Benjamin Pres- Open daily from noon to 7 will be hosting three con- July 4 – W3 Festival: Night ents: “Pursuance” ● Cyrus As summer approach- Jeni’s Ice Creams p.m. certs, all rock, punk rock Ranger, Warrant, Great Chestnut ● Allyn John- es, the season of eating ice You can find this brand and alternative music with White, Lita Ford, LA Guns, son ● Afro Blue ● Jenny cream every day is upon at most grocery stores Bon Matcha big names like Green Day Faster Pussycat, Bang Tan- Scheinman ● Laurin Talese us. and at locations around The worlds of soft and Def Leppard. Concert go and Little Caesar ● Aug. ● Immanuel Wilkins ● The If you’ve ever experi- the country, but it’s still serve and matcha collide guests will be expected to 12 – Luke Bryan ● Aug. 19 String Queens ● Carr/Keys enced the brutal heat and a D.C. favorite. With spe- to make a delicious flavor wear a mask at all times – Zac Brown Band ● Aug. ● The Michael Bowie Trio ● humidity of a D.C. sum- cialty flavors like Middle at Bon Matcha, located inside the stadium but will 20 – Wilco + Sleater Kinney The EJB Quartet (Reigning mer, you’ve probably felt West Whiskey & Pecans in Foggy Bottom. This not be required to have the ● Aug. 21 – Dave Matthews DCJazzPrix Champions) ● the magic a cold scoop of and Lemon & Blueberries ice cream and matcha tea vaccine or a negative CO- Band ● Aug. 26 – Kenny Ernest Turner Trio ● Vox ice cream has as a remedy Parfait, Jeni’s Ice Creams stand is located about a VID test, and capacity will Chesney ● Aug. 31 – Alanis Sambou ● Chuck Redd to cool off. So if you ever is a solid spot for your block from the Marvin be limited per D.C. guide- Morrisette ● Sep. 4 and 5 – Main Pier at The Wharf, find yourself in search of next scoop. Its waffle cones Center, so it makes a great lines. Capital Jazz Fest ● Sep. 18 760 Maine Ave. SW. Free en- ice cream this summer, made in store are also no study break. If you’re look- ● July 13 – Guns N’ – Daryl Hall & John Oates try but donations to the DC reference this list of our joke – you’ll be greeted by ing to try a new flavor, try Roses ● Aug 8 – Hella Mega ● Sep 23 – Dierks Bentley Jazzfest Education Program favorite spots for a good their scent when you walk ordering a scoop of mis- Tour: Green Day, Fallout ● Sep 28 – Pet Shop Boys & are encouraged. scoop. in the door. The chain also ugaru, a classic Korean From the national fa- refrains from using syn- flavor that is a traditional vorite, Jeni’s Ice Creams, thetic flavorings and dyes, blend of fire-roasted nuts to our campus gems Bon so customers can munch and whole grains, ground Matcha and Captain Cook- on only natural flavors. into a powder. ie and the Milkman, here 1925 14th St. NW. Open 1928 I St. NW. Open are a few ice cream shops Monday through Wednesday Wednesday through Saturday to check out this summer: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Thurs- from 1:30 to 7:30 p.m. day through Sunday 11 a.m. Moorenko’s Ice to midnight. Larry’s Homemade Cream Cafe Ice Cream Moorenko’s doesn’t use Southwest Soda Pop Just north of Dupont the term “ultra-premium” Shop Circle, this ice cream shop in its slogan as a market- Located at the Wharf, flaunts signature flavors ing gimmick – the cafe Southwest Soda Pop Shop of ice cream like Fred & makes its ice cream using is the best place to find nov- Ginger, made with peach, 17 percent milk fat, quali- elty ice cream creations. brandy and ginger; Key fying them as truly “ultra- The shop has rich addi- West Chocolate Fever with premium.” Check out their tions like brownie chunks orange and rich chocolate smooth and rich ice cream and gummies, classic ice and Halva, flavored with flavors, like Wild Blue- cream flavors and entic- tahini. The shop also offers berry and Salted Caramel ing ice cream specialties baklava and other treats to with Pralines. The spot that combine ice cream, satisfy your sweet tooth. also offers a blackberry cookies and toppings for 1633 Connecticut Ave. and mango dairy-free an extravagant and satis- NW. Open Monday through sorbet, making it a great fying dessert. Customers Thursday from 3 to 9 p.m., spot to take vegan friends. can stick to the standard Friday through Saturday Moorenko’s also adds new ice cream cone or create from 2 to 11 p.m. and Sunday FILE PHOTO BY GRAEME SLOAN and special flavors season- their own ice cream cookie from 2 to 10 p.m. DC Jazzfest will be hosted on The Wharf’s main pier and is open to the public. GAMES OF THE WEEK BASEBALL SAILING vs. Georgetown at Women’s Nationals Tuesday | 4:30 p.m. Wednesday | all day GW duels Georgetown in the last The Colonials kick off the Women’s home game of the regular season. Nationals this week in Annapolis, Maryland.

Baseball’s 2021 slugging percentage, up from its May 17, 2021 • Page 8 NUMBER Sports CRUNCH .413 five-year average of .376. Sailing concludes final season with trio of national competitions WILL MARGERUM was amended to an open, bring STAFF WRITER your own boat format, according to the ICSA website. Sailing is competing in a trio of Junior Charlotte Rose of national championships to round Jacksonville University won the out the program’s final season as a women’s title while Georgetown varsity sport. University sophomore Thomas After the conclusion of the McCann finished atop the men’s Intercollegiate Sailing Association division. Singlehanded National Sailing, which is concluding Championship, the teams are now its ninth year and final year at the looking ahead to the Women’s varsity level, captured its highest Nationals on May 19 and 20, the finish in program history at the Team Racing Nationals on June 1 ICSA Sperry Women’s National and 2 and the Coed Nationals on Championship in 2019 at fourth June 7 and 8. overall. The 2020 season was cut “It’s a great thing in this year short as the squad worked through that’s been very difficult both with growing pains of a younger roster. COVID and with the streamlining Junior Sarah Hardee said process that athletics went through dealing with COVID-19 protocols for us to be competing in not just this season has been difficult, but one nationals but multiple,” junior the team has been “very lucky” to Mikaela Smith said. “It’s really avoid any outbreaks within the impressive and it’s something that program. On top of the protocols, we’re all very excited about.” a number of student-athletes on The remaining regattas will the sailing program opted-out mark the end of an era for the of the spring season due to the program, which will lose its varsity circumstances of the pandemic. status because of the University’s Travel restrictions and concerns streamlining efforts announced over contracting the coronavirus last summer. Despite the end of led the Colonials to a limited slate the program, junior Matt Logue that included just nine events in the said that he is trying not to let the spring. During the spring of 2019, FILE PHOTO BY ARIELLE BADER looming change affect his mindset the program’s last full campaign, The COVID-19 pandemic pushed the Singlehanded Championship from this past fall to earlier this month. on the water. sailing competed in 21 meets. The Colonials had three sailors Prior to the Singlehanded Ruby Gordon, notched the best the Colonials nabbed the top spot racing format. hit the water in the Singlehanded Championship, the team kicked overall score on the first day. Senior on the podium again at the Aaron During the MAISA Qualifiers National Championship May 1 and off its season with a meet at St. John Deruff said early-season Szambecki Team Race. The first April 17 and 18, the women 2. Senior Soenke Jordan led the way Mary’s College of Maryland that regattas are important for the boat, skippered by Logue, Jordan finished in fourth place overall for GW with a 17th place finish in also featured Boston College March team to prepare itself for national and Priebe, topped St. Mary’s, to earn an automatic berth to the the men’s division, while juniors 6 and 7. In the last Singlehanded championship competitions and Jacksonville and Old Dominion en College Sailing Women’s Nationals. Michael Ehnot and Matt Priebe took Championship held in 2019, he’s glad the group still had some route to the win. The Colonials’ coed team did not home 20th and 26th respectively. Seahawks sophomore Leo Boucher opportunities to test themselves The Navy Quad Races April earn an automatic bid to the Gill The Singlehanded won the men’s division while Eagles despite a condensed schedule. 10 and 11, the last tune-up before College Sailing Coed Nationals but Championship is normally held junior Sophia Reineke triumphed in GW continued to enjoy strong championship meets began, was awarded an at-large place in during the fall but was pushed back the women’s division. form throughout the month of proved more difficult for the squad. the tournament, giving the sailors to the spring of 2021 because of the The Colonials’ first unit, March, with its second unit taking GW placed fourth and seventh out a prolonged chance to practice and pandemic. The event also requires comprised of Jordan, Logue, junior first place at the Seahawk Colonial of nine entrants in the fleet race and make the most out of their final qualification, but the competition Allison Forsyth and sophomore Showdown March 20. A week later, finished third and fifth in the team season of varsity status. Women’s tennis wraps up season with deep A-10 Tournament run

ALEC RICH succeed at the tournament. various tournaments from STAFF WRITER Browning said the September to October. team also had to adjust But last fall, no players Following a canceled to the heat difference of returned to campus since fall slate, women’s tennis playing outdoors in Florida. the slate was canceled, which rebounded this spring with a Typically playing indoors created a situation this spring winning record and capped in temperature-controlled where Browning said the off the year with a semifinals environments throughout team was delayed in playing appearance at the A-10 the season, Browning said practice sets and matches Tournament. the switch could have created against one another by After going more than 11 trouble for the team. several weeks. Instead, the months without competition, The looming anxiety team spent that time catching the Colonials resumed play that accompanied the up on all the conditioning in late February. The squad pandemic and the potential and training they’d missed. notched a 10-6 record, for match cancellations was But for some of the more earning its highest winning also difficult, according to experienced players on the percentage since 2012 and freshman Stella Wiesemann. team, including Nelson, the the No. 4 seed heading into “In a time like this there’s one silver lining from the the A-10 Tournament. With a lot of uncertainties and virtual fall was the notion HATCHET FILE PHOTO just nine players on the sometimes we didn’t know of growth through self- During her final season on the softball team, Sidney Bloomfield notched career highs in batting average roster, head coach Torrie if the next match would accountability. Nelson said and slugging percentage. Browning said a key to the get canceled,” Wiesemann the experience of knowing team’s success this year was said. “At the beginning of what to expect once the the willingness of athletes the semester, we had issues team got together put her at Graduating student-athletes bid to support one another and with that, and other teams an “advantage” during the take on leadership roles. obviously had difficulties months she spent preparing. Leveraging that too, so just having this kind The preparation paid farewell to GW mentality at the tournament of uncertainty was a little bit off for Nelson as well down in Orlando, Florida, NURIA DIAZ record in his final season 41 steals as well as 30 field challenging.” as Wiesemann, who led CONTRIBUTING the Colonials bested division The team endured the team with nine wins during the Atlantic 10 blocks to match a single- SPORTS EDITOR rivals La Salle and Fordham cancellations against Loyola apiece in singles play. On Championship, finishing season program record. He before falling to VCU April University Maryland the doubles side, the pair with a time of 1:58:49 in was recognized on the GW 30, marking the team’s most March 17 and Fordham of Nelson and freshman The Colonials are the outdoor 800 meter Athletics Academic Dean’s successful season finish since April 17 after the game was Lindsay Thompson set the sending off their senior race. In his freshman year, list in the Spring of 2019 losing in the semifinals to postponed from March 28. pace for the squad with eight classes of athletes as they Doorhy placed 51st at the in addition to the ACWPC Richmond in the spring of Despite the cancellation, the wins. trade in their buff and cross country Mount St. All-Academic Team. 2019. Armed with a mix of squad still got to play against As the squad looks blue uniforms for caps and Mary’s Duals 5K with a time of 17:04.02. He also Youssef Ragab: both veteran players and Fordham, defeating the ahead to a more normal gowns. Men’s swimming new additions, including Rams in the quarterfinals of season beginning this fall, Despite facing set personal records in the three freshmen, Browning the A-10 Championship. Browning said several truncated seasons and indoor mile at the VMI In his final season, said the combination of talent Although the main areas the team will focus on completing their senior Winter Relays with a time Ragab notched fourth culminated in a “special” tennis season typically include mental toughness, year in a virtual setting, of 4:28.08 and the 1500 place in the 100 meter team that had the ability to takes place in the spring, shot selection and overall GW’s graduating student- meter race at the Mason breast to help the Colonials make a deep run. one of the team’s biggest training. She said those athletes are leaving behind Spring Invitational with a win their fourth A-10 One of those veteran challenges this year was the efforts will only be aided by impressive legacies. We time of 3:59.51 during his Championship in five players, graduate student inability to prepare during the team’s renewed access asked a few star athletes sophomore year. years. He was named to the Alexis Nelson, said she was the fall semester. In a normal to outdoor spaces, namely to reflect on their time at A-10 All-Conference First Sidney Bloomfield: Team in his sophomore “proud” of the team’s ability year, the team would have the Mount Vernon campus, GW and share what being Softball to bounce back amid the used the fall to train, build where the squad did not get a part of GW Athletics and junior campaigns at hurdles of the pandemic and chemistry and participate in to practice this year. meant to them. During her final GW, earning gold medals Here are some of the season, Bloomfield set in the 800 meter free relay standout performers of the career highs with a batting both years at the A-10 title graduating class of 2021: average of .450 and a meet. In his debut year slugging percentage of in 2017, he broke into the Ioanna .510. She notched eight all-time GW top ten in the Mantzouratos: hits in 14 at bats across 100 and 200 meter breasts Lacrosse five games on the road to and the 200 and 400 meter Mantzouratos racked the team’s 2021 A-10 title individual medley events. up 88 points over the victory to earn a spot on course of her career, the All-Championship Sydney Welch: including 59 goals and 29 Team. In her sophomore Volleyball assists. She finishes with a year, she set career highs Welch amassed 965 .450 shooting percentage of 52 hits and 11 RBIs to digs over the course of a and .809 shooting aid the Colonials’ A-10 four year career, notching percentage on goal overall. title run and earn a share 70 digs and 10 service aces The attacker earned a spot of the championship with in her final condensed on the A-10 All-Conference Fordham in 2019. season. The defensive All-Rookie Team her debut specialist posted double- year, setting new GW Gabriele Simonti: digit digs three times, freshman records with 23 Men’s water polo including a season-high goals, 18 assists, 41 points In his abbreviated 11 against La Salle Feb. and 46 shots. In her final senior season, Simonti 19 and tied a career high season, Mantzouratos notched six goals and two four service aces against tallied a season-high five assists. The Italian center Howard in February 2020. goals and nine shots on net also tied a career-high four As a freshman in 2017, she against American. steals against La Salle in played in all 32 matches in the MAWPC semifinal. her debut season, leading FILE PHOTO BY ALEXANDER WELLING Ryan Doorhy: Men’s During his first season with the squad and finishing The team faced a few cancellations throughout March and April but was able to play against the Fordham track and field the Colonials in 2019, he fifth overall in the A-10 Rams, winning in the quarterfinals of the A-10 Championship. Doorhy set a personal accumulated 40 goals and with 469 digs.