Dannielle Brown Hungers for Justice Black

August 27, 2020 Volume 103 Number 1 THE DUQUESNE DUKE www.duqsm.com PROUDLY SERVING OUR CAMPUS SINCE 1925 Dannielle Brown hungers for justice Black

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Colleen Hammond change news editor Colleen Hammond Dannielle Brown is set to prove news editor there are no limits to a mother’s love. In the staggering August heat, In the wake of civil unrest across Brown sat on the sizzling concrete of the country as racial justice protests Freedom Corner in the Hill District continue to surge in several major as her hunger strike demanding jus- cities, Duquesne’s minority student tice for her son Marquis Jaylen “JB” leaders are done waiting for change. Brown rolled into its 53rd day. They want immediate action. On the evening of Oct. 4, 2018, On July 27, Duquesne’s Black Jaylen fell to his death from the Student Union (BSU), in accord 16th floor of Brottier Hall. It was with a dozen other minority orga- his 21st birthday. nizations on campus, published a Colleen Hammond / News Editor Although it has been nearly two document addressed to President Dannielle Brown, mother of late Duquesne student Marquis Jaylen Brown, places flowers on a symbolic empty casket years since the incident, Dannielle Gormley and university adminis- during her living funeral procession through the streets of downtown. Brown has refused to stop search- tration detailing the specific changing for complete and satisfying an- “I want to make sure that the in all black following a procession continued her hunger strike for an es needed to accommodate the swers about the moments leading love and support is still there,” through the streets of downtown. additional month. At the time of unique struggles of minority, and up to her son’s death. Harris said. It was led by Brown and her sup- publication, Brown had reached specifically, Black students. “I am just an ordinary mom that Since Brown began her hun- porters pushing an empty casket day 55 of her hunger strike. “Due to the current political wants a crack at the truth,” Brown ger strike, she has received wide- and singing traditional American “What the news don’t tell you — I and racial tension, and the unjust posted to social media in early July. spread attention in the Duquesne protest songs. continue on this hunger strike be- murders of Black men and women On July 4, she upended her life community and surrounding Pitts- “You came for the wrong moth- cause Duquesne keep ditching out in the world, we are calling for in Maryland and moved to Free- burgh area, as well as gained a er, until my last breath,” Brown red tape,” Brown posted to social Duquesne University to hear us dom Corner with no more than substantial following. Two online repeated to the crowd, with many media on August 18. and see us for our color and ac- basic supplies and a white rocking petitions calling for “Justice for supporters wearing shirts with the That same day, attorneys for knowledge its room for improve- chair. Brown then began her hun- Marquis Jaylen Brown” have com- same statement printed on the Duquesne held a press conference ment,” the document said. ger strike and presented three de- bined received more than 120,000 back. in which they said they had agreed Members of the BSU met fre- mands to Duquesne University. signatures, and her social media Despite her large following and to meet all of Brown’s demands quently over the summer to craft “1) An independent investiga- following has boomed. She also has wave of support, Brown said she weeks earlier and formally an- this extensive twelve page docu- tion with full access to information a consistent group of roughly 20 has struggled to get her demands nounced this was not a case of po- ment that outlines “a series of ac- and resources. supporters at Freedom Corner who met by university officials. lice brutality, racism or negligence. tion plans designed to enhance 2) Body cameras for all university alternate camping out overnight After meeting with Brown and “Duquesne agreed to expedi- and establish a more diverse and police and performing chores, said local her former legal counsel, Lee tiously seek to procure body cam- inclusive atmosphere for all stu- 3) Mandatory certification train- Party of Socialism and Liberation Merritt, in early July, the univer- eras for its officers to add addition- dents, more specifically the Black ing in mental health crisis inter- (PSL) organizer and activist Emily sity said they would make the com- al training, to satisfy Ms. Brown’s students, at Duquesne University.” vention and de-escalation for po- Hannon. plete Duquesne Public Safety file other two demands and to bring Their plan proposed a variety lice and first responders” read a “She just seemed like she needed available for in-person review by closure to this matter,” the univer- of short and long term “actions sign at Brown’s protest site. help,” Hannon said. Brown’s counsel. The university sity news release said. plans” that touch on nearly ev- “Her demands are very clear and Hannon has been visiting Brown also publicly urged the Pittsburgh University attorneys David Faw- ery aspect of campus life includ- concise,” said Kayla Harris, execu- at Freedom Corner and protesting Police bureau to do the same with cett and Jason Hazelwood from ing athletics, residence life and tive vice president of Duquesne’s at the corner of Forbes Avenue and their case file. Reed Smith also said the Duquesne Greek life. Black Student Union. Washington Place since the first “Both parties are committed to Public Safety file was ready to be Among the short-term action In the wake of George Floyd’s week of Brown’s hunger strike. transparency and resolution in a viewed “as soon as Ms. Brown’s plans is a “call to action” for ad- death and the recent rise in pro- In addition to the camp at Free- way that can celebrate and honor lawyer returns the relevant paper- ministration to expand the DU tests for racial equality across the dom Corner and picketing on cam- JB’s life and contributions,” said work.” Cares Program to include acts of country, Jaylen’s death has once pus, events and marches led by a joint statement by the universi- But Brown tells a different story. racial descrimination as part of again received public attention Brown have attracted crowds in the ty, Dannielle Brown and her legal She claimed the university has the student conduct rules, stating with many supporting Brown’s de- hundreds. counsel from July 9. not met her demands and refuses that perpetrators of racism or demands, including Harris. Her most notable event, a sym- However, despite the universi- to work with her to resolve issues scrimination should be punished Harris, like several Duquesne bolic living funeral for her in which ty’s statement of agreement, Brown of campus police reform and racial and held accountable for their ac- students, has frequently visited she eulogized herself, featured a alleged that the university did not justice, citing “legal red tape” and a Brown and her supporters at their large crowd of supporters dressed sufficiently meet her demands and “lack of full access” She also alleged see BSU — page 3 camp-out residence at Freedom Corner, often bringing along coco- see BROWN — page 2 nut water and other supplies.

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@theduquesneduke PAGE 5 PAGE 5 PAGE 8 PAGE 7 2 THEDUQUESNEDUKE Dannielle Brown’s hunger strike continues Since the August 18 statement, from BROWN — page 1 DukeTips Duquesne has continued to say that Brown is seeking monetary This year, The Duke is investing it- that the university has construct- compensation for her son’s death self to tell stories of Black voices on ed a false narrative to discredit from the university. our college campus. If you’ve got a her and her work. “It was a lot of back and forth,” story worth sharing —and everyone “I think Duquesne needs to Harris said. “I just want her does—please contact news editor stop trying to protect their im- (Brown) to have the closure she’s and managing editor Colleen Ham- age,” Hannon said. starving herself for.” mond at [email protected] At the August 18 news confer- Harris noted how she deeply ence, Fawcett and Hazelwood cares for Brown and finds a sense claimed that Brown had made of sisterhood with her as they are a fourth demand consisting of a both members of Delta Sigma large sum of money. Theta. Joke Corner “Ms. Brown now has commu- Despite the conflicting reports nicated that she is making a sub- from Brown and the university, stantial monetary demand of the Harris feels this case is about University,” said the accompany- more than determining and mak- Why is it called the novel ing news release. ing public the details of this case. Colleen Hammond / News Editor Protestors carry signs reading “Justice 4 JB” outside PPG Arena. Brown denies these allegations. “I still think a lot more would coronavirus? It’s a long “There was no fourth demand. happen had he been white,” Har- ger strike, Harris is not interest- Duquesne’s commitment, past and story… I never asked for any money,” ris said. “The mother would not ed in Duquesne’s Public Safety present, to honoring JB’s legacy. file being made public. “Please keep those assisting Dan- “We don’t have to know,” Har- nielle and Dannielle herself in your I never thought the com- ris said. “I just want Dannielle prayers as we move forward on this Brown to have closure.” important endeavor,” President ment, I’d stay away from you As the days drag on, Brown’s Gormley said. health has become a large cause Brown remains adamant about with a six-foot pole would for concern. Even President continuing her hunger strike for the become national policy, but Gormley expressed his concern foreseeable future. for Brown’s wellbeing in an ex- “When will I eat? When I reach here we are! clusive statement to The Duke. a national platform where the “I walked down to the entrance Marquis Jaylen Brown foundation of campus yesterday to speak can properly advocate for moth- Why did the chicken cross again with Dannielle, to see how ers’ rights and the safety of college the road? The chicken behind she is doing, and to convey to students throughout our country,” her, personally, Duquesne’s com- Brown posted to social media on it wouldn’t socially dis- Colleen Hammond / News Editor mitment to this new direction in August 26. tance. Dannielle Brown faces a crowd of supporters at Fifth Ave. and Washington Plc. seeking solutions,” President Gormely said. To view President Gorm- Brown said. “They (the univer- be on a hunger strike; she would He also said that Brown “appreci- ley’s full letter, please visit: sity) offered me some, but it was have her answers.” ated” his visit and that she “seemed in good spirits.” Gormley restated duqsm.com JOIN THE DUKE! insultingly low.” After 55 days of Brown’s hun- Writing for The Duke is a Changes to Title IX to be implemented at DU great way to get involved with “It’s intimidating, retraumatizing The university will continue to ad- criterion aren’t including a lot of cases everything going down on Kellen Stepler & Kelsey Burtner and creates another obstacle for sur- dress non-Title IX sexual misconduct that should be taken seriously by the campus. Whether you like to editor-in-chief & layout manager write, draw, take photos, play vivors to overcome in the healing pro- through TAP 31. school, such as assaults involving stu- video games, listen to music or National changes to new Title IX cess,” she said. Llewellyn is also concerned that the dents off campus or abroad.” are just looking for a new way policies have sparked criticism at col- Duquesne University’s Title IX co- policy permits cross examination of Sophia Bakar, a Duquesne gradu- to make friends, The Duke is a leges across the country. ordinator Lee Robbins said that the the survivor by the accused student, ate student studying biomedical en- great place to start! In May, U.S. Department of Edu- university has implemented a new and said that she sees it as an intimi- gineering, disagrees with the “fine Being on the staff of The cation secretary Betsy DeVos an- interim policy, TAP 61. TAP 61 estab- dation tactic to keep assault statistics print” of the regulation — specifically, Duke looks great on a resume, nounced new federal regulations re- lishes Duquesne’s prohibition against low. the cross-examination of both the no matter what your major garding Title IX, to be implemented Title IX Sexual Harassment, and “This obviously places extreme complaining and responding parties, is, and it involves a lot of Duquesne’s response to allegations of trauma on the survivor again,” and that universities can choose to free pizza. on Aug. 14. In a statement from the If you’re interested, email U.S. Department of Education, the sexual assault that occur off-campus. Llewellyn said. “Basically, survivors not respond to sexual assault allega- Editor-in-Chief Raymond Arke new Title IX regulation “holds schools Robbins said that many compo- will recant or not come forward be- tions that occur off campus. at [email protected] or stop accountable for failure to respond eq- nents of the new Title IX process will cause they don’t want to have to un- “There is a 60 day limit on this pro- by our newsroom located in uitably and promptly to sexual mis- feel familiar, but some key changes dergo legal cross-examination by the cess, but in those 60 days it would the basement of College Hall conduct incidents and ensures a more include a new definition of sexual person they’re accusing.” still be possible for the victim to face (Room 113). reliable adjudication process that is harassment; the opportunity for a The current state of the world, further harassment if the situation is fair to all students.” complainant or respondent’s advisor Llewellyn said, makes this the worst escalated or not taken care of,” Ba- Vanessa Llewellyn, president of to ask questions of the other party or time to implement these kinds of kar said. “Having a live hearing with Duquesne’s Students Against Sexual witnesses at a hearing, if one is held; changes. both parties and witnesses also cre- EmailTips Violence (SASV), said that SASV and the option for parties to partici- “The new policy prohibits the uni- ates further opportunity for shame along with other advocacy groups pate in informal resolution if both versity from holding any reports that and embarrassment of the victim We want your input! across the country does not support parties agree to it. don’t occur within a college related … Duquesne has a large commuter The Duke’s news section would these new policies and regulations. “Additionally, under the new Title program,” she said. “With COVID population, and should be just as con- love to hear from you about “The new definition of what quali- IX Policy, the University will offer restrictions in place and almost ev- cerned about the well-being of these stories that you want to see in fies as sexual harassment discounts supportive measures to complainants erything happening remotely or off- students as students residing on cam- print. Know a talented professor so many significant experiences sur- and respondents, provide remedies campus, it’s likely that even more pus.” or accomplished student? See vivors have faced and continue to to a complainant where a determina- sexual violence towards our students Students are encouraged to contact something on campus that just face,” Llewellyn said. “As president, I tion of responsibility has been made will occur off campus.” the Office of Title IX and Sexual Mis- doesn’t make sense? You can will never look a student in the eyes against the respondent, and will fol- Duquesne speech pathology major conduct Prevention and Response send your tips and story ideas and tell them that what happened to low its formal grievance process be- Audrey Nigh believes the new Title IX with any questions. to News Editor Hallie Lauer at them wasn’t harassment because it fore the imposition of any disciplin- regulation isn’t inclusive enough. [email protected]. doesn’t fit in this new, concise defini- ary sanctions or other actions that “There’s several criterion that must tion of ‘harassment.’” are not supportive measures against a be present in order for the school to respondent,” Robbins said. even get involved,” Nigh said. “These

August 27, 2020 News THEDUQUESNEDUKE 3 The Black Student COVID-19 campus regulations pose Union’s fight for insti- new challenges for fall semester Kellen Stepler academic deans and faculty and prehensive frequently asked ques- editor-in-chief leadership across the division of stu- tions section that addresses both CO- dent life,” Welsch said. tutional change As summer faded and the aca- Duquesne senior business man- VID-19 and university operations,” major concerns BSU has about cam- demic year began to come into frui- from BSU — page 1 agement major Jonny Geisler, who pus life and their role in it. The doc- tion, Duquesne students received Rose Ravasio, Duquesne media and lives off campus with Pitt students, tions. In addition, BSU and their ument also places a large emphasis numerous emails from University communications manager, said. thinks more clarification regarding supporters requested for an anony- on the disparity of mental health administration, but there’s one that mous racism reporting system. services available for Black students. definitely stood out -- the Aug. 20 “It’s about time that people are rep- “We carry the weight of the world on email from Duquesne vice president rimanded for their actions,” Brianna our shoulders everyday,” Harris said. of student life Douglas Frizzell, stat- Smalls, BSU’s vice president of cam- Black students, Harris noted, face ing a ban on “all off-campus pro- pus engagement said. a unique type of stress and trauma. grams and social gatherings.” Smalls noted the often unnoticed Their demands urge the university Then, on Aug. 20, Duquesne difficulties of being a minority stu- to hire mental health professionals vice president of student life Doug dent at a predominantly white uni- who are specifically trained to deal Frizzell sent a mass email to the versity. with the effects of racism on a per- Duquesne community stating a ban “When I go outside, it’s like wow... son’s mental health. “on all off-campus programs and it’s only me,” Smalls said. “A therapist can understand what social gatherings.” All social inter- Smalls and her peers at BSU took I’m saying but not really empathize action in off-campus housing may their time crafting this document, with my struggles,” Smalls said. only include housemates and family yet they urge the university to take Anthony Kane, Director of the Of- members, and all other social gath- immediate action to enhance the fice of Diversity and Inclusion, who erings are prohibited, constituting a livelihood of its Black students. has a background in counseling, said violation of the COVID-19 policies Many student groups like BSU he hopes to help students “become for students. across the country have made simi- one with their identity” through the After a flurry of confusion be- Griffin Sendek / Photo Editor Hand sanitizing stations have now been added to all campus buildings lar demands to their universities, resources and support of his office. tween students, that message stating that the status quo for Black “As long as we each do our part, prompted a follow-up email sent students must change after the on Monday from Frizzell, clarifying we can achieve a lot,” Kane said. Duquesne’s COVID-19 guidelines is “Duquesne’s COVID-19 Planning death of George Floyd in May and some rules of the ban. In addition to the ongoing work necessary. the accompanying resurgence of civ- “Duquesne University is a private and Information website is definitely at the Office of Diversity and Inclu- “I fully understand the intention- il rights advocacy across America. institution of higher education that sion, Harris, Smalls and their peers ality behind it, and I agree with the one you’ll want to bookmark to make “We cannot just go about business can and does set the terms under at BSU hope this document will be a intentionality without a doubt,” which people can study or partici- it easier to visit more often.” Geisler said. “I think if we lack clari- pate in activities on its campus, live Ravasio said that Duquesne fication, that will cause confusion. in its residences, or be employed,” For example, I wasn’t sure if I was Health Services will provide “rele- Frizzell wrote in the follow-up. “Its able to attend church or not, based policies are informed by recommen- vant statistics” regarding COVID-19 on the rules and regulations.” dations from the Centers for Disease Giesler also feels for the incoming each week to senior administration, Control and Prevention, the Allegh- freshmen, who are beginning their eny County Health Department, and the university will report the college journey like no other. and close professional monitoring number of confirmed positive cases “I think it’s extremely hard for of conditions in our region.” freshmen — I think it’s one of the on its COVID-19 planning and infor- Clarifying the ban, Duquesne worst-case scenarios,” Geisler said. vice president of marketing and mation website, and will update that “Coming in as a freshman, that’s communications GabWelsch told number as it receives reports. As of The Duke that “common sense is where you meet everyone, that’s Griffin Sendek / Photo Editor very important.” where you get your friends. Those Tuesday, Aug. 25, that information first couple of weeks are really make “The overall goal is continued has not been listed on the website. with our lives,” Kayla Harris, execu- it or break it for freshmen, and to long lasting influence for change at safety during the pandemic, and tive vice president of the Black Stu- come in and be told that you can re- In the July 24 announcement, Duquesne for all minority students. the intention is to prevent the sorts dent Union, said. ally only hang out with your room- “I really wanted everyone’s voice to of gatherings — particularly parties Duquesne shared preventive mea- Harris and Smalls both vocalized mate, and maybe a few other people be included,” Harris said, highlight- — that tend to involve large groups their discontent with the emails — it’s just not the same. It’s a lot sures for those returning to cam- ing the importance of other minor- of people, without masks, whose sent out to students in regard to the more isolating.” pus. Masks are required in all public ity groups on campus in the fight for behaviors may be less cautious and death of George Floyd and subse- Duquesne unveiled a master equality. involve people with whom you do spaces — inside and outside — and quent protests in Pittsburgh. plan on July 10 to reopen campus, Despite sending this document to not typically associate and, partic- In a statement from President ularly, who are outside of your R- composed of seven different task everyone will practice social dis- Gormley on May 31, he chose not university administration a month forces — health and safety proto- ago, BSU students said they have PODs,” Welsch said. tancing. Students living on campus to address Duquesne’s stance on ra- “Students visiting family, con- cols, academic affairs and online cial justice. Instead, he assured the heard very little response. Harris learning, faculty and staff re-entry, are grouped into R-PODS to limit stated that Gormley emailed the ducting community service or work- Duquesne community that no cam- ing at a job, as a few examples, with housing and auxiliary services, contact to their group initially, avoid group to acknowledge the publica- pus property had been damaged in safety measures in place, includ- student success, athletics and fi- tion of the demands, but has not yet meeting in large groups and signage the protests. ing masking, social distancing and nance and budget. provided the students with a concrete “Although the protest swelled to a proper hygiene, should be fine,” “The Master Plan … reflects mea- indicating foot traffic patterns have plan to implement these changes. large size yesterday and came close Welsch said. “Completing the daily sures the University has taken to “President Gormley is moving been placed all over campus. to campus on Forbes and Fifth av- health screen questions and ensur- create a structured campus envi- forward with his team to examine Additionally, Pennsylvania enues, and resulted in several inci- ing continuous proper observance ronment, allowing for face-to-face the various requests, many of which dents near Centre Avenue, there was of proper safety measures is key and and hybrid classes, adapted living Governor Tom Wolf announced the University is working on now,” no damage done to our campus and necessary as part of the new Student conditions and other necessary Gabe Welsch, vice president for on Aug. 4 $28 million in aid to no injury to Duquesne faculty, staff, Code of Conduct measures to ad- changes, while making it possible marketing and communications at students or personnel, including our dress the COVID-19 pandemic.” to be present on Duquesne’s cam- state colleges and universities to Duquesne said. officers who stayed on the periph- Welsch said that despite it be- pus and earn a high-quality educa- support health and safety plans. ery,” Gormley said in the statement. “I wasn’t expecting them to re- ing very early in the academic year, tion,” Welsch said. Duquesne received $133,000. This attitude, Smalls noted, is why spond to us,” Smalls said. “They like Duquesne students and employ- 14 days later, Duquesne an- President Gormley was mentioned to turn a blind eye to us.” ees have been holding not only nounced four requirements for stu- “The funding provided helped to by name in the list of demands. Still, BSU leadership is deter- dents to return to campus. Updated themselves, but others account- offset the considerable costs the uni- “What fueled us calling out Ken mined to continue the fight for able regarding current policies for information from the university re- Gormley and (Duquesne Vice Presi- equality and racial justice on mask-wearing, social distancing, garding COVID-19 can be found on versity incurred in that area, includ- dent of Student Life) Doug Frizzell Duquesne’s campus. practicing good hygiene and adher- https://covid19.duq.edu. ing everything from PPE, to testing, was the email about George Floyd,” “At the end of the day, people of ing to the Protect Duquesne Pledge. “The COVID-19 Planning and In- Smalls said. color just want to be treated like ev- “Individuals are reporting viola- formation website includes news and to contracting for quarantine beds, However, these are not the only eryone else,” Smalls said. tions to the university leadership, updates, resources and a very com- to Plexiglas and on,” Welsch said. 4 Opinions THEDUQUESNEDUKE staff 113 College Hall editorial 600 Forbes Avenue Duquesne oversteps Pittsburgh, PA 15282 administrative boundaries Welcome back to Duquesne Uni- editorial staff versity. We are exhilarated to have you back on campus, but remember that editor-in-chief Kellen Stepler spending time with friends is strictly managing editor Colleen Hammond prohibited. news editor Colleen Hammond Duquesne has been placed in a dif- opinions editor Noah Wilbur ficult position — being pressured to features editor Katia Faroun reopen while equally as pressured to a&e editor Capri Scarcelli take measures to keep students safe sports editor Adam Lindner are inherently contradictory. layout editor Kelsey Burtner Students received an email from Dr. multimedia editor Griffin Sendek Douglas Frizzell on Thursday, Aug. administrative staff 20, announcing a newly-instated ban adviser Paula Reed Ward on all off-campus programs and social ad manager Carissa Haslan gatherings. The strictly-worded mes- email us: [email protected] sage outlined the punishments for violation of the new policy. “First Offense - Probation for up to one year and offenders will be prohibited from the University Campus. Second Offense - Suspension from the Comic By Kelsey Burtner University.” It is not fair for the university to bring students back, citing the impor- “The greatest glory tance of in-person interactions while The hybrid approach to course delivery poses unforeseen challenges fundamentally banning all external in living lies not in ith the fall semester Nevertheless, with students among students and profes- social gatherings. commencing across and parents indicating a pref- sors, as well as the inevitable The motivation behind the strong- ly-worded email is clear: the univer- America, institutions obstacles that emerge from the W erence for in-person classes sity wants to discourage partying and never failing, but of higher education have de- and President Trump’s relent- heavy use of technology. other large gatherings. Duquesne has veloped stringent reopening less push to restore traditional Some of these barriers in- decided the only way to make students in rising every time plans with the intentions of schooling, higher education clude technical failures, lack listen is to be strict. The reality of the situation is no amount of threats will providing a near-normal col- institutions appear adamant to of technological literacy, stop partying. These restrictions are lege experience while proac- high maintenance costs, mis- resume normal operations to like putting a bandaid over a gaping we fall” tively reducing the likelihood some extent. communication between pro- wound, and serve more to provide a of a campus-wide outbreak. As a result, the majority of fessor and students, online safety net of deniability in the chance Nelson Mandela Universities introduced rig- universities are offering stu- temptations and lack of mo- of a large outbreak among students. E orous preventive measures tivation, cognitive overload Governing what students can do dents two opportunities to re- to ensure a safe environment and who they interact with in their You just read Now tweet ceive an education this fall: ei- and the increased likelihood off-campus housing, which is paid for for students and faculty in re- our thoughts. us yours. ther remain in the comfort of of plagiarism. completely independently of the uni- sponse to the threat of which Most importantly, however, versity - feels like a massive overstep in @TheDuquesneDuke we are all familiar, known as students are missing the op- authority. COVID-19. portunity of physically inter- Duquesne’s administration should Requiring masks on school not be threatening students with pun- acting and collaborating with ishments for things it can never hope property, daily health screens, peers – a critical factor in the to legitimately enforce. frequent temperature checks development of well-rounded Even before the pandemic, college and considerably limiting ca- individuals. Even with a blend has always been stressful for many, editorial pacity in all buildings are a few of in-person and online learn- but the friends made along the way examples of the policies being help make it all worth it. Today we ing, it is nearly impossible for are living through a more stressful Duquesne’s COVID-19 response lacks full commitment to protecting students policy set in place by administrations. students to engage with one time than ever before; every single day Campuses appear practically another when such austere re- could bring news that fundamentally The Duquesne Duke is the student- unrecognizable as the typical changes our lives. Small social gather- written, student-managed newspaper strictions are enforced. of Duquesne University. It is published bustle of traveling college stu- Without social stimulation ings and human interaction are some of the only things that grant any sem- every Thursday during the academic dents and busy professors is no and networking with class- year except during semester breaks and Noah Wilbur blance of normalcy. holidays, and prior to final exams. The longer reality for the foresee- opinions editor mates, professors and industry In a follow-up email answering fre- Staff Editorial is based upon the opin- able future.Student bodies and professionals, will fail to de- quently asked questions, the recipient ions of the editors of The Duke and does one’s residence and complete university personnel must face velop the interpersonal skills was asked: not necessarily reflect the views of the the courses solely online or students, faculty, administration, stu- the uphill battle of navigating necessary to reach their full “If these guidelines or the message partake in blended learning. cause extra stress or aggravate exist- dent government or the University pub- constant uncertainty stem- potential in life after college. lications board. Op-ed columns do not Combining traditional and ing mental health challenges, what re- reflect the opinions of The Duke, but ming from the new reality that The success of the hybrid sources are available to help with feel- rather are the sole opinions of the col- we all live in now. online instruction seems rather model is ultimately contingent ings of isolation and anxiety?” umnists themselves. The most challenging and feasible at first glance: continue on whether students choose to To which the administration di- Letters policy burdensome change in the with face-to-face classes while hold themselves accountable rected students to the services of the Wellbeing Center. That’s really not Letters to the editor must be typed, academic experience is the incorporating the flexibility of double-spaced and include the writ- by remaining focused on their good enough. Even with expansions to online learning to limit social er’s name, school/department and transition from face-to-face coursework and making the ut- the services provided, no institution is phone number for verification. Letters instruction to a hybrid model engagement and thus prevent most effort to “participate” in equipped to take on the insurmount- should be no longer than 300 words and should be delivered to The Duke blending both traditional and the spread of COVID-19. classes and other networking able mental pressures created by the office at 113 College Hall or e-mailed online learning. Although the virus might be events whether virtual or face- pandemic. to [email protected] by 5 p.m. successfully controlled, can the Duquesne University cannot confi- Tuesday. The editors reserve the right Beginning in early March, to-face. dently say its mental health infrastruc- to edit any and all submitted copies. international and domestic hybrid model provide a valuable In the end, an education uni- ture is prepared to meet the needs of All letters must be verified before being students first shifted to an on- and worthwhile education while fying traditional and online in- each and every student in a remotely published. line format – an endeavor into simultaneously preparing young struction is an effective alter- timely manner. Corrections/clarifications the unknown. Fast-forward adults for the real-world adver- native for self-disciplined and There are a lot of steps the students Readers should report any story or of Duquesne need to take in order for photo error to The Duke. All legitimate five months and the virus has sity that awaits them? driven individuals, whereas this year to go by smoothly, and the errors will be corrected in print the fol- wreaked havoc around the My criticism arises from the more dependent learners will university is right in wanting to dis- lowing edition. country with more than 5.5 fact that the blended approach certainly struggle in the online courage large gatherings. However, Contact million cases in the United lacks sustainability due to the learning environment. cracking the whip on students for sim- ply wanting to spend some time with States alone. learning curve with technology email [email protected] their friends is not the way forward. Opinions 5 Open Letter to Campus from The Duquesne Duke ear Duquesne Stu- moved online this spring. telling the essential sto- The time is now to do our and daily life of Duquesne’s dents, Staff and Fac- However, we remained con- ries of the Black commu- part in addressing inequality Black community. ulty, D fident that we would find a nity in the past, we would in news coverage. This year, While we realize this is an It goes without saying that way to not only restart, but like to ask for forgiveness. we are turning a new leaf. ambitious plan, moving for- this has been an unbeliev- also grow our news coverage We at The Duke recognize The Duke is committed to ac- ward, we ask that you, our ably challenging time for all come fall. With that in mind, and acknowledge our role curately, honestly and effec- readers and our community, of us in the Duquesne com- we applied for the College in the fight against racism. tively telling the stories of the hold us to this high standard. munity. In a matter of six Media Project through the Racism and discrimination Black community. Most importantly, we want short months, our world has renowned Poynter Institute Still, we realize this is not have no place at Duquesne, the Duquesne community to changed more times than any of Journalism in March. The something we can do alone. As especially at The Duke. know this is more than just of us can count. Moments we College Media Project is an a predominantly white univer- The Duke has been a sta- a year long project. For us, took for granted — eating at award that funds select col- sity and predominantly white ple of student life for the this is a permanent, institu- restaurants, going to the mov- lege news organizations to newsroom, we recognize that past 95 years, and it is our tional change. The Duke is to ies, seeing a friend’s smiling pursue a large, overarching we cannot cover these stories mission to continue this be a safe haven for students, face in person — have com- story or theme for one year. without immersing ourselves legacy of storytelling as staff and faculty to tell their pletely changed for the fore- To our surprise and delight, in the Black community. your local journalists. stories. We want to be an or- seeable future. The Duke was one of 10 It is for this reason that When we applied for this ganization that is attuned to We know this year has student papers from across we are honored to announce project, we had no idea the been a time of great uncer- the country chosen to re- our ongoing partnership with Duquesne’s minority commu- new relevance it would take tainty, anxiety, political un- ceive this honor. Duquesne’s Black Student nities and fosters growth for on as the summer progressed. rest and fear of the unknown. In early May, when we Union. Together, we hope to the next generation of Black As we watched scenes of civil In the past six months, we’ve learned the good news, our build a relationship based on journalists and storytellers. watched our university close, editorial staff began to dis- rights and racial justice pro- trust with the common goal At The Duke, Black lives seen supplies at the grocery cuss the primary focus of our tests from our hometowns and of ensuring the Black commu- mattering is the bare mini- store dwindle, said goodbye story. For us, the choice was our college town, we knew we nity of Duquesne feels seen, mum. Here, Black lives and to loved ones far too soon and clear: We need to dedicate all had made the right choice. heard, respected and valued. Black voices are respected, heard the global cries for ra- the resources gained through We hope to achieve this valued and wanted. cial justice. This year has been this award to increasing our “When the world through a minimum of one May we be worthy of the incredibly difficult for all of coverage of Duquesne’s Black story featuring the Black com- task ahead of us. us, but we at The Duke see a community. changes, we have munity per week. Because silver lining to all this. We have noticed that the the unique oppor- the Black experience does The Duke Editorial Staff

When the world changes, Black community of Pitts- not stop with news coverage, T h e

y S tunity to chal- t t i o we have the unique opportu- burgh has been frequently these stories may appear in n r i u e

BLACK s nity to challenge ourselves to overlooked by the news media any of our sections. Our aim m lenge ourselves to

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o VOICES

change with it. — regrettably, including us. is to provide our campus with f

change with it.” D

MATTER

Like so many campus or- For the times we failed a well-rounded, robust and u

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n s e ganizations, we had to close to properly invest our time, honest depiction of the tri- ’ our doors once the university efforts and resources into umphs, struggles, art, culture Duquesne’s COVID-19 response lacks full commitment to protecting students Alexander Wolfe themselves and each other. sity to collect a daily stream less for us, and more for our located what scarce resources staff writer The Protect Duquesne of data on student health and parents and guardians who it possesses. midst the deluge of Pledge asks us to protect empowering at least the sem- are more likely to challenge While other schools plan to emails from Doug Friz- ourselves, others and the blance of preventative action. the university. How many test students every two weeks A zell and President Ken Duquesne community, but the The aforementioned videos worried mothers and fathers or send students a test weeks Gormley informing students administration seems more follow this methodology of spent hours interpreting the before move-in, the adminis- of new university restrictions, concerned with protecting a hands-off administration. administration’s emails? Mine tration requested we begin a policies and updates to the os- themselves from liability rath- Frizzell asked us to watch all surely did. 14-day quarantine two weeks tentatious ‘HyFlex’ plan, one er than upholding the very four videos covering the COV- Ironically, the most effec- before that quarantine was might arrive at the conclusion pledge they authored. As the ID safety policy, and while in- tive measures Duquesne has meant to begin. that the administration is do- flashy, high-production and formative, these videos failed taken are the ones that seem- Ultimately, the students will ing everything in its power to somewhat condescendingly- to present new information ingly cost the least: the distri- dictate to the world the suc- keep Duquesne students safe phrased videos in the DU app and even offered students the bution of masks and sanitizer, cess or failure of our campus during these difficult times. show, Duquesne seems in- opportunity to acknowledge the designation of foot-traffic safety plans. While we should We know that preventing tent on highlighting the im- their viewing without actually and, as draconian as they are, come together as a community the spread of COVID-19 re- portance of taking the Daily watching. the consequences for on-cam- now more than ever, I find it quires a commitment to safety Health Screen. These semi-performative pus and off-campus gather- irresponsible to ignore the ad- from an entire community, Upon taking the Health administrative publications ings. Aside from understand- ministration’s failure to fully and the Duquesne community Screen, one will notice that lack any enforcement mecha- ing the need to follow public commit to protecting us. is certainly prepared to make there is no way to submit the nism. Not to say President safety guidelines, we also un- I’m no public-health expert that commitment. From those questionnaire, placing respon- Gormley should personally derstand that the administra- (econ and IR actually), but of us who chose to learn re- sibility wholly in the hands of ensure we meticulously ad- tion’s actions thus far have plainly, the lack of commit- motely, to those who dutifully the students while the admin- here to the contents of his been the result of a streak of ment to testing is frightening, don their mask and overuse istration touts this fruitless messages, but the administra- legal self-preservationism. and it’s exasperating to watch their hand sanitizer, we all attempt at accountability. An tion’s lax attitude demands It’s no secret that Duquesne my tuition be spent on largely hope that every member of effective daily health screen further scrutiny. The content is stretched financially. Nev- performative measures that the Duquesne community will would collect responses from put forth by the university for ertheless, I feel as if the uni- are likely to have little impact do what they can to protect students, allowing the univer- students to browse is meant versity has not responsibly al- on our safety. BVM FEATURES 5 The Village offers safe space for Black Duquesne students Katia Faroun Over the summer, the Center for Student group’s primary facilitator. features editor Wellbeing released a statement of solidarity in The group’s main objective is to create a wel- new online support group provides which it mentioned the formation of The Vil- coming space for Black students specifically, Black Duquesne students with ac- lage as a virtual support group and promised to where they can share their emotions and experi- cess to professional care, a place to be “stand with our people and advocate for their ences with each other while also receiving sup- A wellness in this and many dimensions.” By July, port from the other members within the group. heard and an encouraging community: the support of a virtual village. The Village was established, and the number of “The primary goal of the group is to provide a The Village is a virtual support group for students involved was increasing even before space for Black students where they can express African-American Duquesne students that be- the start of classes. their emotional needs and receive support, spe- gan this past July. The mission of the group is The group is facilitated by Quincy Stephen- cifically around issues of racial stress and racial to create a space for Black students where they son, assistant director and outreach coordina- tension,” Stephenson said. can openly express themselves and their emo- tor of the Center for Student Wellbeing, who The Village was formed following the events tions, specifically regarding racial stress and has been asked to lead the group each week. surrounding the death of George Floyd and the trauma. The group, which meets over Zoom His experience with addressing racial stress and national conversation on race that his death every Wednesday, consists of a small group of trauma — as well as his being the only African- sparked. Students brought information to the American male therapist on staff — encouraged Center for Student Wellbeing, encouraging the students that spend their time sharing their ex- Courtesy of The Business Journals periences and supporting each other. the center to ask that Stephenson act as the center to offer more support to Black students, especially in light of the tension surrounding the Quincy Stephenson facilitates the discussions. summer’s events. The Center for Student Well- ine conversations around their needs, around being partnered with the Office of Diversity and their hurts and around their understanding of Inclusion to create The Village as a way to offer what they’re feeling and why they’re feeling it,” this support. Stephenson said. To accompany the support of the center, the Despite only hosting meetings since July, Office of Diversity and Inclusion’s role includes Kane believes that the group has already had a assessment and evaluation of the outcomes of positive effect on the students. the group, according to Dr. Anthony Kane, di- “We’ve already seen through conversations rector of the office. with students or just the students’ body lan- “For our office, it’s continuing to promote The guage that students are becoming more com- Village as a place for students to go and talk and fortable in addressing the situations and leading get support, but more importantly to assess how the conversation around them,” Kane said. it’s had positive effects on students,” Kane said. While the main focus of the group is to sup- “We want to make sure that our students of col- port Black Duquesne students, the hope is for or — our African-American and Black students the conversation on race to continue, not just on at Duquesne — feel like they belong, and if par- campus but throughout the nation. ticipating in an hour virtual support group every “If we’re not talking about race, if we’re not week helps them establish that positive sense of talking about racism, it tends to get dismissed belonging, then we’re doing the right thing — or marginalized, so it is important for the con- we’re moving in the right direction.” versation to happen,” Stephenson said. “It’s able So far, the group consists of anywhere be- to bring attention to the needs of so many stu- tween three and 15 students each week that offer dents, and hopefully it will promote change.” support to each other and find the support they Those interested in joining The Village can Duke Archives need themselves. The group continues to grow. sign up by emailing Quincy Stephenson at The Center for Student Wellbeing, along with the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, started the support group. “We’re able to have real, authentic and genu- [email protected]. Freshman orientation a success despite restrictions ASHLEY NEWMAN schedule. staff writer Kirsa Danis, a junior nursing student at Duquesne, was an entertainment chair at ith the novel coronavirus still orientation this year. Danis said that the active in the U.S., it is no sur- orientation leaders were not told the sta- W prise that everything is looking tus of orientation until June. Once they different for students this fall. From pre- were told that they were able to have their school to college, all students and faculty orientation, they had to figure out how to are trying to adjust to the new protocols go about it safely. to stay safe during the school year. Among “We obviously had to follow CDC guide- these new situations, Duquesne’s orien- lines, so finding events that we could do tation also had to readjust its traditional was difficult, but we got creative and managed to make it happen,” Danis said. To follow the social distancing recom- mendations, many events were held virtually, with new students watching the event with their teams. Griffin Sendek / Multimedia Editor “Team leaders had a lot more face-time Despite unknowns presented by the pandemic, freshmen received a full week of orientation activities. with their new students than a normal year,” Danis said. Some events were still in person, like the authority figures, but we were there more Events that were normally held in large carnival, according to Danis. The carnival to remind students about the rules than to rooms in person were held with the teams, consisted of games spread throughout A- fully enforce the rules. The new students out- such as matriculation and the Title IX Walk, so distancing was encouraged. The number us; we said something when were lecture. Some of the fun events were also world record dance, a substitute for the able to, but our main job was to facilitate the held in this way, like watching the comedi- graffiti dance, was also in person. events. If students were not at the events and an and the mentalist that come annually. “We wanted to still have fun, big events,” walking around campus, we were not always Danis thought that this was a change in a Danis said. there to remind them of CDC guidelines if positive direction. Orientation leaders had a few issues they decided to not follow them,” Danis said. “I believe that was very helpful because with new students not following guide- Overall, Danis said that orientation went we asked the team leaders to stay on as lines, but for the most part, it was fine, very well. Of course, it was difficult to make peer counselors for the new students,” Danis said. Once the students were told it happen, but she feels that they did the best Danis said. “Since we weren’t able to do a that campus was going to have these rules given the circumstances. lot of stuff to get the students acquainted for at least a whole semester and were “I just want people to know that the team with campus like the tour of Pittsburgh or notified about the repercussions for not leaders were very essential in making this helping them find their classrooms, they following rules like wearing a mask, they program happen,” Danis said. “If it wasn’t for may not feel as comfortable with the cam- were understanding. them, we wouldn’t have been able to pull it Griffin Sendek / Multimedia Editor pus as we like. So, the team leaders will be “It was hard because the team leaders and off how we did. Orientation is a student-run Freshman orientation activities began Sunday, Aug. 16. there to check up on them once a week.” orientation leaders were looked at as the event and I think we did very well with it.” SPORTS 7 What To Watch For: DU MBB enters ‘20-21 with momentum Aug. 27 — Sept. 2 It is unclear, as of press time, which sporting competitions Adam Lindner over George Washington, plebe- will be held over the course of sports editor ian Fordham (twice) and La Salle. the next week. It saw a miserable second-half On Aug. 26, three NBA playoff The Duquesne men’s basketball meltdown at Rhode Island, and games were postponed as the team’s 2019-20 campaign ended regrettable losses against Massa- league’s players grapple with yet suddenly on March 12, only hours chusetts and GW. another shooting of a Black man before the team was set to open The abbreviated season as a at the hands of police. play as the Atlantic 10 tourna- whole, though, can largely be Jacob Blake, a Black man, ment’s sixth seed. The decision, marked as a positive develop- was shot seven times by officers made in response to the sud- ment. The team with no true home in Kenosha, WI, on Aug. 23, den outbreak of COVID-19, came court began its season with the reigniting the nation’s ongo- swiftly that Thursday afternoon as program’s best record since 1953- ing reconciliation with racial conferences across the nation suc- 54, saw the emergence of forward inequity, particularly pertaining cessively announced the cancella- Marcus Weathers as an all-league Duke Archives | Alyson Lorefice/Staff Photographer to police brutality. tions of their championships. player and ended the season with Duquesne forward Marcus Weathers prepares to shoot a free throw during a Jan. The Milwaukee Bucks — the Hours after the A-10’s cancel- 20-plus victories for just the third 29 contest at PPG Paints Arena. Duquesne would fall to eventual conference cham- NBA’s team from Wisconsin, lation, the NCAA announced that time in the last 48 years. pion Dayton, 73-69, despite numerous second-half surges from the Dukes. a state now embroiled in civil its remaining winter and spring In retrospect, the 2019-20 unrest following the shooting championships were called off Dukes’ biggest regret will likely be terfinal round. A win against URI Carry found himself with a lack of Blake — were the first to altogether. never knowing just how much they would have put Duquesne in the of serious college interest when boycott their game, which was Now months removed, the vi- could have achieved. It’s probable league’s second semifinal matchup he graduated high school in 2018, set for 4 p.m. against Orlando. rus’ proliferation has spawned that Dambrot would have found on March 14, likely against No. 2 largely as the result of missed time Soon thereafter, the NBA many grim realities around the his Dukes victorious in the con- Richmond or a potentially-surging due to knee problems. announced that its remain- globe, and — albeit on a decid- ference tournament for the first Davidson team. A top middle school player, he ing games scheduled for Aug. edly abbreviated scale — that’s time in his three-year tenure at After taking care of business missed out on all-important time 26 — Houston-Oklahoma City no different for sports, nor their the school, and the possibilities against both Fordham and Rhode on the AAU circuit throughout and L.A. Lakers-Portland — leagues, teams, employees, ath- beyond that are vast. Island, though, the Dukes would high school, and coaches essential- had been postponed, as well. letes or supporters. Some, like DU Boasting a season sweep of fall one victory short of the title ly retreated due to his murky in- The NBA’s plans beyond center Baylee Steele, will forever NCAA Tournament bubble team game, which would’ve been the jury history. He committed to D-II Aug. 26 are currently unclear. be left wondering what could’ve Saint Louis, two close contests program’s first appearance since West Liberty before Duquesne of- The MLB’s Milwaukee Brew- been had their final college sea- with high-flying Dayton and a 2009. An NIT bid may have very fered, making him a late addition ers followed suit shortly after sons ended naturally. gutsy overtime win at VCU, the well been thrown Duquesne’s way, to a sizable 2018 recruiting haul the Bucks’ decision, postponing For Keith Dambrot and his prospect of a National Invita- though, and the program could for Dambrot. its game against the Cincinnati Dukes, the uncertainty and en- tion Tournament berth was ab- have taken solace in the tasting He ended up being the gem of Reds. Then, the Seattle Mari- suing frustration regarding solutely plausible for Duquesne. of postseason success for the first the class, taking over lead guard ners — MLB’s most predomi- what would have — could have The Dukes’ postseason realities time in a while. duties from Day One and nev- nantly Black team — voted to — transpired had the postseason would’ve been crystallized given Then again, it’s possible, too, er looking back. Now halfway postpone its contest against the continued is, and will remain, a proper conference tournament, that Duquesne would have fal- through his Duquesne career, it’s San Diego Padres. unresolvable. including the slim possibility of tered at the hands of Fordham — a obvious to anyone watching that At press time, it also ap- Be that as it may, that does a conference title and automatic team that the Dukes narrowly beat these Dukes will go only as far as peared the San Francisco Giants not mean the team and its fans March Madness bid — which, hy- in two regular-season rock-fights Carry can take them. and Los Angeles Dodgers would shouldn’t take some solace in the pothetically, could have included — and moved to 0-3 all-time in the Carry missed four games during postpone their Aug. 26 contest. campaign. For large portions, a Cinderella-type triumph over conference tourney under Dam- his freshman campaign in 2018- The WNBA decided to post- it was an encouraging showing, Obi Toppin and the nationally- brot. The positive momentum 19, and at times appeared hobbled pone its scheduled games for highlighted by a historic 10-0 renowned Flyers in the league that the regular season generated on the court during others. In his Wednesday, Aug. 26, as well. start, an 11-7 showing in confer- title game. wouldn’t be nullified, necessarily, absence, the lack of his presence For the time being, it does ence play — notching a program In another alternate reality, the but the team’s lack of postseason on both sides of the ball was felt by appear select MLB games will record for A-10 wins in a single team could have bounced No. 14 success would have surely damp- the Dukes, who look to Carry to be be played as scheduled, and season — and emboldening road Fordham — which downed No. 11 ened the campaign’s memory, as the leader of their offensive attack that the NHL will continue play victories over both Saint Louis and GW on March 11 in what would well as the generally positive feel- and an energetic tone-setter on D. in its two bubble locations (one St. Bonaventure. eventually be the tourney’s final ing regarding the program head- Well, good news: He appeared in Toronto, one in Edmonton). Contrarily, it also saw pedes- game — before facing a struggling ing into a pivotal 2020-21 season. entirely healthy throughout his It is fair to assume that, in trian, too-close-for-comfort wins Rhode Island squad in the quar- Alas, nobody will ever know sophomore season, playing 35.5 the coming days, more de- with certainty how the Dukes minutes per contest across 30 finitive decisions will be made would have fared in the end. The games. He notched a full 40-min- regarding the NBA’s plans, in 2019-20 sports season will forever ute effort at Fordham, and played addition to other professional be a mystery for countless teams 40-plus minutes in overtime sports leagues. around the globe; the Dukes are games versus Fordham (41), at According to ESPN’s Tim no different. St. Bonaventure (42) and at VCU Bontemps, a veteran NBA There were three major devel- (42). At no point did Carry ap- player has told ESPN, “The opments during the 2019-20 sea- pear limited on the floor, offering season is in jeopardy.” son, however, that indicate the Duquesne its most encouraging — Adam Lindner possibility of an unforgettable development of the past season. 2020-21 campaign — if and when As a result, the point guard On This Date ... that season actually happens. improved his yearly 3-point per- The foremost of those develop- centage by 2.1% (to 33.6%) while On August 27, 2004, Manu ments is found in Duquesne point launching 26 more times from Ginobili scored 29 points to lead guard Sincere Carry, his promising long-range in a season that saw the Argentina to a shocking upset of sophomore season and, most im- NCAA move its 3-point line back the United States in the semifi- Courtesy of Duquesne Athletics portantly, his self-evident health. from a traditional length of 20 feet nal round of the men’s basket- Duquesne sharpshooter Tavian Dunn-Martin takes some time to himself prior to a 1. Sincere Carry’s health ball tournament at the Summer Dukes’ game at Robert Morris University’s UPMC Events Center in 2020. The criminally-under-recruited see HOOPS — page 8 Olympics in Athens. 8 THEDUQUESNEDUKE Three takeaways from DU MBB’s abbreviated season

HOOPS — from page 7 shooting from outside the paint. recording 18 points and a career-high 11 as- with just over 13 minutes remaining, the Regardless, Weathers’ emergence as a sists en route to a statement win over SBU. Dukes would cut their deficit to just four and 9 inches to 22 feet and 1¾ inches, the top player in the A-10 in 2019-20 was a sig- After forcing overtime with a pair of before Dayton regained an 11-point lead. customary distance found in international nificant factor in the team’s record-setting clutch free throws, Carry drew a key charge Even then, the team didn’t concede, play. Improved long-range shooting was campaign. Without his increased production in overtime, then buried two more free fighting back to a 71-69 tally before Dayton a goal of Carry’s entering his sophomore (and seemingly unstoppable spin move), it’s throws at the end of the extra period to give prevailed. season; the results have been reassuring. clear Duquesne wouldn’t have fared nearly DU an 81-77 win at St. Bonaventure, its first The character that the team displayed in Entering his junior year with a clean bill of as well as it did during the past year. in over a decade. the face of a national title contender is per- health, a growing offensive arsenal and his Likewise, the team will need a memora- The win was especially satisfying for haps one of the season’s most positive occur- brother, Mike Bekelja, now in the fold, Car- ble final act from Weathers in his last sea- longtime Duquesne supporters who’d rences. The problem, as Dambrot may tell ry appears primed to continue ascending as son of eligibility in order to reach its goals grown particularly weary of the team’s an- you, is the team’s inability to exhibit consis- one of the league’s premier guards. of Atlantic 10 predominance and an NCAA nual trip to Olean, N.Y., each season. It gave tent effort against all of its opponents. 2. Marcus Weathers’ emergence Tournament appearance. Dambrot his first victory over the Bonnies Bad losses against UMass and George A major question regarding the team en- 3. Gallant wins & collective resolve at Duquesne, leaving him just a win against Washington killed the Dukes’ hopes of a tering the past season was which players One of the most impressive factors of VCU away from owning a victory against double-bye in the A-10 tournament, leaving would take sizable leaps in their produc- Duquesne’s 11-win conference season was each of the A-10’s other 13 programs during them as the No. 6 seed; a team that could tion. It seemed, following the loss of swing- the manner in which some of the wins came his young tenure. challenge anyone in the league on any given man Eric Williams Jr., that a considerable — and, for what it’s worth, one of its losses. That win came March 3, giving the night, yet one that remained prone to losing onus of responsibility would fall on the In one, on the road at Saint Louis, Duquesne Dukes victory No. 11 in the A-10, a school games it shouldn’t. team’s other perimeter scorers in the wake managed to beat a solid conference opponent record. It was Duquesne’s first-ever win The 2020-21 team will be Dambrot’s first of his departure. for the second time in just over a month, this against VCU in eight attempts, and gave with true veteran experience at Duquesne, Lamar Norman Jr. fared decently well time in a hostile environment. The Billikens Dambrot a win over each of the league’s led by integral seniors Weathers, Dunn- in an augmented role, and freshman Ma- made runs, cutting their deficit to just two other programs. It also gave DU its sixth Martin and Hughes, as well as the beyond- ceo Austin showed flashes of his budding early in the second half, but the Dukes would A-10 road victory on the season, shatter- his-years Carry. potential. Tavian Dunn-Martin had some answer each of SLU’s jabs en route to an im- ing the previous benchmark of four (set With the exception of Steele, the team’s huge moments, highlighted by an unreal in- posing 14-point victory. multiple times). entire core is set to return, and will be dividual effort from 3-point range at VCU. Just two weeks prior, Duquesne was 5-0 Even so, the nature of the win itself was joined by what seems to be a highly talented For several periods throughout the sea- in the A-10 and set for its first pivotal road the most remarkable factor of the VCU win. class of freshmen. It’ll be Dambrot’s fourth son, though, it was forward Marcus Weath- game of the year at URI. The game saw a The Rams, pegged as the conference year at the helm of the program — his cur- ers that proved to be a matchup nightmare promising first half from DU before a mon- favorite in preseason polls, enjoyed a de- rent contract runs through 2023-24. for innumerable hapless defenders. umental collapse, resulting in a 22-point cently successful non-conference slate but If there’s ever a time for Duquesne to As a whole, the redshirt junior: loss following an eight-point halftime lead. disappointed in A-10 competition. By the do it big, to purge its long-standing NCAA 1. Upped his scoring average from 10.0 It was disheartening for a team that began end of the season, VCU remained a talented Tournament drought, what greater time points per game to 14.3 A-10 play on a surge, and things only be- yet shorthanded group, and continued to than now? 2. Improved his field goal percentage came more bleak following a letdown at struggle mightily against teams it was pre- It’s all contingent upon many factors, yes. from 48.9% to a whopping 55.7% clip UMass days later. viously predicted to dominate. Beyond personnel matters, it’s far from while attempting 60 more shots in total The Feb. 5 game at SLU was Duquesne’s On the Rams’ senior night, a rock- a sure thing that the season will even tran- 3. Grabbed 8.1 rebounds per game, an im- first shot at a road game following those two ing Siegel Center welcomed the Dukes, spire as it’s currently scheduled. If it does, provement from 6.4 per game the year prior outings, and beyond the implications that who found themselves trailing by 12 with this is nothing short of Duquesne’s time to 4. Was one of two players to start all 30 the game held in the league’s standings, the 8:14 remaining. Dunn-Martin went on a make history. games alongside Carry game at a raucous Chaifetz Arena was to be 3-point rampage in the game’s second half, Of course, that’s dependent upon Carry’s 5. Recorded double-digit points a team- a gut check for a program that hasn’t fared giving Duquesne second, third and fourth health, Weathers’ continued improvement high 21 times well on the road in some time. lives when it seemed VCU might finally and the team’s ability to continue to show Weathers’ emergence as an all-league The win was, at the time, Dambrot’s pull away for good. up in key moments. An improved level of talent may have initially caught some by most impressive on the road during his Norman Jr., a talented but inconsistent preparedness against its lesser opponents surprise, but his enhanced game was evi- tenure at DU. contributor during his sophomore year, might help, too. dent from the outset of conference play to Victories at St. Bonaventure on Feb. 26 sent the game to overtime with a tough those paying attention. He began to pro- and VCU on March 3, though, may be even drive to the rim in the game’s final seconds. duce at an unprecedented level toward more memorable in retrospect. The Dukes controlled overtime in large the conclusion of non-league competi- The Bonaventure game fell at another part due to timely 3-pointers from Steele tion, posting 19 points and 13 rebounds critical point for the team, then fresh off and Dunn-Martin, and escaped from VCU against Radford on Dec. 14 before scoring two straight losses, including a disconcert- with more than just another road victory — 25 points and grabbing 13 boards against ing home outing against GW on Feb. 19. the trend of gutsy wins in hostile environ- Marshall on Dec. 29. The Dukes were entering the latter part ments provided tangible evidence that the His importance was magnified, though, of their season, set to face the Bonnies at program is, in fact, in the process of return- in conference play, headlined by memo- the Reilly Center before games against ing to legitimacy. rable performances against Saint Louis George Mason, VCU and Richmond to end Following Year 3 of Dambrot’s time (twice) and Dayton. the year. At 8-6 in the A-10 before the Bo- at Duquesne, one of the most promising Weathers’ inside-out game proved to be a naventure matchup, the team was in dan- things regarding the program has been its brutal assignment for many throughout the ger of dropping to just one game above ability to show tremendous resolve in key A-10, and nobody struggled to contain him .500 as the season was drawing to a close moments, specifically throughout the 2019- quite like SLU. Weathers scored 26 points following a 5-0 start. 20 season. in both of the Dukes’ games against the Duquesne hadn’t won at St. Bonaventure For the first time in over a decade, the Billikens on 62.5% shooting, tormenting a since 2009, losing 11 consecutive games at team is gifted enough to compete at the team that prides itself upon its defensive the Reilly Center before the Feb. 26 match- heights of the A-10 and, when paired with versatility and toughness. up. Just weeks earlier, the Bonnies beat the program’s evident belief that it truly be- Entering his final year of eligibility, Duquesne, 83-80, in a hard-fought game at longs, there is the real prospect of a much Weathers figures to be in win-now mode the UPMC Events Center on the campus of richer 2020-21 campaign. alongside fellow seniors Dunn-Martin and Robert Morris University in Moon Town- Several moments from Duquesne’s 73-69 Mike Hughes. A more consistent jump shot ship, one of the Dukes’ temporary homes loss against Dayton on Jan. 29 showcased would unlock yet another level of Weath- for their nomadic campaign. the group’s collective resolve in its highest Courtesy of Duquesne Athletics ers’ game; he is already a masterful finisher But Carry & Co. answered the bell in un- form, exemplified by a 21-6 second half run Duquesne center Baylee Steele extends his hand around the rim but can often struggle when forgettable fashion, with the point guard against the then-No. 7 Flyers. Down 55-36 for a high-five during a November 2019 contest.

August 27, 2020 sports ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 9 Jurassic filming continues despite coronavirus Week’s Griffin sendek any of the lead actors test positive Events multimedia editor for the virus, filming comes to an immediate halt. Grab & Go Ice Cream s the production of Jurassic No matter what happens over August 27 @ 9 p.m. World: Dominion contin- the course of production, Jurassic Aues just outside of London, World: Dominion will set a prec- Free ice cream of your choice edent, whether it will be a bas- Universal Pictures seeks to prove available at the NiteSpot! Get tion of hope delineating how the that even during a global pandem- it while supplies last. ic, Hollywood blockbusters are far Hollywood machine can keep on churning or a lesson in disas- from extinction. Paint Monkey ter proving the world isn’t ready Despite pouring an additional Sept. 5 @ 7-9 p.m. $9 million in safety precautions for large scale films to return. If Jurassic World: Dominion is into what was already a $200 mil- A campus-wide paint n’ sip lion dollar movie, no amount of capable of reaching completion, its safety policies and guidelines with 50 spots available! money can guarantee anything Courtesy of josh wilson, universal pictures Those interested can pay when it comes to the spread of the will very likely be adopted for Production on the Jurassic World : Dominion continues despite COVID shutdowns. moviesets all across the world. $10 at the Assumption Hall coronavirus. Universal is moving It’s important to remember front desk. forward with the shooting sched- ever-evolving balls of organized protocols? Spoiler: Actors Chris that Jurassic World: Dominion ule, and is optimistic that the mul- chaos, but never before have they Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard is not attempting to spearhead titude of on-set changes will keep required nurses at the entrances will not be undergoing sudden mid-pandemic filmmaking for the the cast and crew safe up to the manning temperature gages, 150 costume chanvges while inexplica- creative pursuit of the artform, filming’s conclusion. hand sanitizer stations, the accu- bly wearing masks through half of but rather, money is the leading the movie, nor will they be chased Filming for Jurassic World: mulation of 18,000 coronavirus motivation. through the forest by velociraptors Dominion began in February and test kits and the rental of an entire There is an awful lot riding in face shields. continued until March 13, 2020, luxury hotel for 20 weeks. on the completion and release when production was placed on The coronavirus is fundamen- The first step for shooting a movie of Jurassic World: Dominion. hold due to the outbreak of the tally changing the ways in which in 2020 is to not be in the U.S. The two previous entries in upcoming coronavirus. movies are made. Everyone from “It is virtually impossible to the Jurassic World series both Filming picked back up again in the actors and directors to each shoot anywhere in the U.S. right grossed over $1 billion and releases the U.K. on July 6, this time fol- member of every crew department now,” producer Mark Gill told the Dominion is expected to perform lowing a 107-page safety manual are all following set protocols New York Times. The reduced just as well at the box office. outlining the changes for every never before seen. severity of the outbreak in the The possibility of future shut- Smile job on set. So how does a movie get made U.K. compared to the U.S. has downs and delays costing the stu- Katy Perry Movie sets have always been while adhering to strict safety eased production. dio more money just adds to the Friday, August 28 The immediate filming location pressure. is called “the Green Zone” which To quote Dr. Ian Malcolm (Jeff Katy Perry’s sixth studio consists of only the bare mini- Goldblum’s character from the album, first one released in mum personnel needed to capture original Jurassic Park), “Your sci- the past three years. This each individual shot, actors, direc- entists were so preoccupied with pop album will primarly focus tors, camera operators, sound and on Perry’s self-proclaimed whether they could, they didn’t “journey toward the light..” lighting tech. Everyone that works stop to think if they should.” within the Green Zone, including The parallels that can be drawn All Together Now the actors, is tested three times a between the fictional corporations Friday, August 28 week, while the departments that from the movies and Universal work outside the zone are able to Pictures moving forward with An upcoming Netflix original, be tested on a less frequent basis. risks in the name of profits is this film is about a seemingly Despite piling millions of dollars almost laughable. Time will tell normal teenage girl with a in safety precautions, the produc- whether or not production will huge secret: She is homeless. tion of Jurassic World: Dominion take after the chaos and disarray is still teetering on the edge of a of the series it is creating, or if blade. Following the safety guide- Jurassic World: Dominion will Courtesy of josh wilson, universal pictures lines has worked well thus far, truly grace audiences in theaters .Production on the Jurassic World : Dominion continues despite COVID shutdowns but if anything slips through and on June 11, 2021. Micro review Horoscopes Duquesne’s Student Safety Kits

Aquarius Pisces Aries Taurus The coronavirus ‘welcome back!’ ) bag is efficient and useful for what Love isn’t your strongsuit Listen to Aquarius, they Take a walk! Feel the fresh it’s worth. The pamphlet provides Put your two cents in informative pointers on how to not today. Someone’s bound today, Pisces. Watch a might be able to help you air! Say hi to the squirrels! movie instead. with that. breathe on the person next to you to listen, right? It’s okay to take a breather. and how to properly wash your hands, which you think would be common sense. Alongside this, the Leo Virgo kit is brimming with anti-COVID-19 Gemini Cancer gear, including a large bottle of hand sanitizer, a thermometer and a mask Treat yourself to some- Cancer, check if you Read the room Leo! Read It is your time to shine that does not fit around my ears. thing nice today! Or are in-person or online the room! this week. That’s it. Aside from receiving my safety kit don’t, up to you. today. That’s the tweet. late, I know Duquesne has our backs at the end of the day! Libra Scorpio Sagittarius Capricorn --Capri Scarcelli

Libra, why so lowkey? You are feeling emotional Things might go your way You’re feeling lazy to- What’s going on? today. It’s okay, cry it out today. You may receive day. That’s okay, you’ll with Virgo. good news if you’re lucky. get it next time. 10 THEDUQUESNEDUKE New lab location takes theater from Red Masquers Kellen Stepler Lane had to break the news during pandemic, it is rather difficult to editor in chief a Red Masquer executive board justify the probability of putting uquesne University’s Red meeting. people in danger just to satisfy our Masquers won’t be able to “My reaction was a mix of shock cravings for live entertainment.” have their shows in this D and sadness. I never would have For Masquers president Heather Genesius Theater anytime soon, guessed that we would lose the Umbel, the most frustrating thing but that does not mean the show’s theater,” Red Masquer secretary about having no access to the the- going to stop. Olivia Scherrer said. “We had al- ater is the inability to educate stu- Over the summer, Masquers advi- ready discussed modifying some dents interested in crew. sor John Lane received an email shows and thinking of alterna- “We won’t have access to the tech- from the provost’s office that the tives, but I never expected to lose nical equipment in the theater, like group would not be able to per- our location to another major.” the sound system and the light- form in the Genesius Theater for Composed of 45-60 DU students ing system,” Umbel said. “People Griffin Sendek / Photo Editor the foreseeable future. Instead, the from all majors, the Red Masquers won’t be able to learn skills.” Their home since 2015, the Red Masquers will be unable to use Genesius theater. space will be used for health sci- have called the Genesius Theater Scherrer said that she was upset pushed out of our comfort zone.” dents will definitely experience an ence labs, which had to be moved home since 2015. The Red Masqu- that the Red Masquers were not Lane explained that there are al- interesting and new way of working to accommodate social distancing ers will have access to the rest of notified prior to the university ternative types of shows that the in theater, and I cannot wait to see guidelines. the building — the prop shop, cos- making the decision, or were not Red Masquers will perform — do- what comes of it.” “I understand why — it’s an tume storage and a rehearsal hall, part of the conversation that de- ing virtual, radio and outdoor Lane said that the Red Masqu- extraordinary time,” Lane said. for example — but not the audito- cided who would use the theater. shows — with very small casts and ers will plan other virtual events “We’re happy to help the univer- rium itself. “There are theater majors who short in length. among its members to “keep mo- sity any way we can and do our “I feel upset that the theater won’t need that theater for their specific “We’ll be just as busy as a nor- rale up,” and “create as many op- part to make sure everyone is safe be in use,” actor Michael Kirk said. focus, and I feel that their educa- mal semester,” Lane said. “We’re portunities as possible for kids to and sound. It’s unfortunate, but “It’s a gorgeous building with so tion is being put on hold or pushed doing just as many, if not more, do theater.” everyone on campus is making much potential and so many sto- aside by Duquesne,” Scherrer said. shows. We’re just doing types of Although cliché, the phrase “the sacrifices.” ries to tell. However, due to the “There is already a bias toward shows that we wouldn’t normally show must go on” may hold more STEM majors when compared to do.” bearing to the Red Masquers this arts majors, and I feel that this in- While they’re still in the works, year. In their 109-year-history, stance exhibits that preference.” the plan is for virtual shows to be the Red Masquers have never Classes that would have normally held on platforms such as Zoom cancelled a season. been in the theater have been or Facebook Live, radio shows to “Safety should be our top priority moved to the rehearsal hall in be broadcasted on Duquesne’s ra- in these coming months, even if Genesius Theater. It’s up to indi- dio station, WDSR, and 10-min- that does, in fact, mean our the- vidual directors of each show to ute outdoor shows to be per- ater will not be in use this year,” decide where the cast will practice formed on campus during class Kirk said. “Duquesne will pre- safely and follow protocols. switch times. vail, and the Red Masquers will “I think it will be an interesting “I think this is an odd yet inter- prevail, but only if we keep our Griffin Sendek / Photo Editor way to see how creative we can esting way to go about our semes- heads on straight and our hearts The group is tasked to find alternatives outside of the theater. be,” Umbel said. “I’m happy to be ter,” Scherrer said. “The new stu- on our sleeves.” Pittsburgh CLO gives season ticket holders another try capri scarcelli Benefits to this include the percentage a&e editor discount aforementioned, reserved parking, hough the coronavirus has stalled var- exclusive pre-sales, guaranteed seating and ious events throughout the summer, the ability to pay through installments. T companies such as the Pittsburgh The gift voucher, however, is a simple one- Civic Light Opera (CLO) are more than pre- time purchase with mailed-in ticket prefer- pared to go forth with regular production next summer at the Benedum Center. ence. The CLO is carefully preparing for its 2021 According to CLO, the “give the gift of broad- summer musical season, starting by extend- way” gift certificate “make[s] the perfect ing this year’s season subscription into next gift for those special someones –– par- year. According to the Pittsburgh CLO web- ents, employees, and that hard-to-shop-for- site, regular season ticket holders are able to friend… the perfect gift for every occasion Courtesy of CLO website claim two tickets for any musical production A new season means new beginnings for the Pittsburgh CLO. and every budget.” from next June to August. and 8 p.m. Sunday’s show, however, will tickets for any one show from the summer Questions regarding gift certificate pur- The show lineup for next summer includes start half an hour earlier. 2021 season. chasing can be answered by the CLO ticket- the following: Jersey Boys from June 1-6, To those who purchased tickets this sum- Along with this, those interested in newly ing associates at 412-282-2822. Kinky Boots from June 15-20, A Chorus Line mer and were not able to put them to use, subscribing to the premium ticket packages Current ticket holders may also provide from June 22-27, The Drowsy Chaperone there is no extra fee to transfer shows for can do so now, which can save anywhere their gift certificate number along with the from July 6-11, Sister Act from July 20-25, the next season, with the exception of Jersey from 15% to 35% collectively. name of the person who gifted them their and Godspell from August 3-8. Boys. According to the website, ticket holders 2020 Summer Season Gift Certificate for the Each show will run for six days from A gift certificate form was sent out to sea- can enjoy a six-show premium seating pack- closest match to their previous tickets. Tuesday to Sunday. son ticket holders, which allows audience age, which reserves the same seat for all six To ensure priority seating, gift certificate Weekdays have 7:30 p.m. showings, members to select the show of their choice shows, or the three-show premium seating vouchers must be mailed in by Sept. 17. Fridays have them at 8 p.m., and Saturdays alongside the date and time. package, which allows reservations for three Physical tickets will be mailed by spring and Sundays have two showings at 2 p.m. This gift certificate is good for one or two shows of choice. of 2021. August 27, 2020 arts & entertainment THE LAST WORD 11

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