THE WOOD WORD NOVEMBER 2014 • Marywood University’s Official Student Newspaper • www.thewoodword.org
Past and present veterans honored at third annual event Autumn Granza Editor- in- Chief The Office of Military and Veteran Services and the Student Veterans Alliance (SVA) teamed up for their third annual Veterans Day event. The Flags for the Fallen Campaign was set up in Tree Stadium located just outside of the Veterans Resource Center, formerly Bethany Hall, which now houses The Office of Military and Veteran Services. The Nov. 11 service also took place in Tree Stadium because the previous location--the Memorial Commons, the space outside of the Liberal Arts Center--is closed for construction. “I think the fact that [the event] is so close to North Washington Ave. has definitely made it a little easier for the community to participate, and the fact that the flags are now next to the Veterans Resource Center is fantastic,” said Lauren Williams, director of Military and Veteran Services. Christopher Smith, president of SVA, a student veteran, and se-
nior nutrition and dietetics major, agreed. “Community involvement has been a lot better,” said Smith. “When it was at [the Memorial Commons] it was kind of isolated from the community… But, having it here on this main street allowed more people to see it and it was more visible this year.” The crowd stood around more than 6,800 flags, up from last year’s 6,746 flags. Each flag represents a fallen soldier from the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. “I think that this is a great new memorial sight for our veterans to display the flags,” said Katie Chowanec, senior child studies major. “I think it was an excellent event to show our support for all of the veterans here in our country and in our community, and I would love to see this event continue.” According to Smith, SVA has seen support from veterans outside of the Marywood community. Multiple VFWs throughout the area have donated more than 600 flags.
This year, podiums along the edge of the flags listed the names of the fallen soldiers. “I think it was an extra personal touch so people can see that these flags are representative of an individual person and his or her family,” said Williams. In conjunction with The Flags for the Fallen Campaign, the Remembrance Wall was also on display in the Liberal Arts Center. The Remembrance Wall was created as an interactive wall for the Marywood community to write “thank you” notes for veterans or those who are currently serving. The wall was created by a group of junior interior architecture students from Maria McDonald’s class last year. “I think it is wonderful now that we still have a piece of the Veterans Day ceremony somewhere else on campus,” said Williams. “It makes it more of a campus wide event and the Remembrance Wall is a beautiful gesture for people to just go and have a moment with themselves to thank a veteran, to write down
Students to complete course evaluations online Satara Dickey News Editor As the fall semester is quickly coming to an end, students and faculty are preparing to officially launch online course evaluations. Students complete course evaluations at the end of each semester. The data is used to evaluate a course and its instructor. This semester is the first time all classes will complete evaluation forms online. Faculty and staff proposed the idea of moving course evaluations online and planned a trial that included 15 classrooms and 210 students in the fall of 2013. “The response was extremely positive,” said Sr. Kathleen Mary
Take a look
INSIDE
“It’s important for the students to know that the evaluation cannot be traced back to them in any way.”
-Dr. Kathleen O'Neill Ruthkosky, associate vice president for the Office of Planning and Institutional Effectiveness
Burns, director of Web Development and creator of the online course evaluation. “The online process is much less labor intensive as there is no counting out forms, no separation of comment sections, and no feeding paper into a machine for
Marywood should better represent other religious holidays
reading,” said Burns. “The online forms are also reproduced without cost and are quicker for students to complete.” Teachers will announce in class what day they plan on holding course evaluations. On that day students must bring an electronic device that connects to the internet with them to class. Each student is then issued a PIN for each evaluation they complete. The PIN is used to assure that each student only completes one evaluation per course and instructor. Please see EVALUATIONS page 2.
Photo Credit/ Autumn Granza
Marywood student veterans were asked to place flags in Tree Stadium during the Veterans Day ceremony. a message to a family member or friend who has served, or just to say thank you in general.” The Color Guard was provided by The University of Scranton Warrior Battalion and Marywood’s Trumpeters played “Echo
TAPS,” before a moment of silence at 11:00 a.m. Please see VETERANS, page 12.
Students can earn credits by creating an academic portfolio Kendra Wuestling Staff Writer Marywood students have the opportunity to earn credit for a course by creating a portfolio of their accomplishments. Any student who has attended Marywood since their freshman year is able to type a portfolio that exemplifies his or her skills in a certain subject. The goal is to prove that the student has the life experience and knowledge in order to earn credit and not take a certain course. Carly Rudzinksi is the Coordinator of Prior Learning
Construction of the Learning Commons remains on schedule
Asessment, and she is in charge of helping students with the portfolio process. The students are able to submit proof of news articles, internships, or any other prior experience,”said Rudzinski. A student who is interested in creating a portfolio is assigned a faculty evaluator to meet with for two months. The student and evaluator will review the skills and goals of the student. Please see PORTFOLIO page 4.
Commuter basketball team begins first season
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NEWS
November 2014
Learning Commons remains on schedule Questions remain about details of timeline, fundraising campaign
Marywood celebrates first Philanthropy Day
Photo Credit/ Alex Weidner
Progress of the new Learning Commons building scheduled to be finished in the Fall of 2015. Vincent Schultz Managing Editor Since the launch of the Centennial Campaign, "A Bold Heart," the Learning Commons has been an integral part of Marywood University’s ambitious project. The campaign seeks to raise $75 million, with approximately $38$40 million solely devoted to the new construction. On Oct. 18, 2013, the ceremonial groundbreaking marked not only the symbolic beginning of the new construction, but also held the promise that the project would be completed in 2015. Attempts to speak with Vice President for Business Affairs and Treasurer, Joseph X. Garvey regarding the Learning Commons updates were unsuccessful. However, Garvey did provide a number of important dates and landmarks over the upcoming years via email. As of right now, construction is on schedule and the roof and exterior are expected to be completed by Dec. 2014. There will be a dedication of the building on Sept. 8, 2015. Demolition of the current library will take place in the winter of 2015-2016 while work on the amphitheater will commence around Spring and Summer of 2016. Another lingering concern is the status of the capital campaign and whether fundraising for the new structure is on track. The university initially
sought funding from a variety of sources, which included the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP), as well as additional loan and bond issues. According to Renee Zehel, vice president for university advancement, a total of $42M has been pledged for the Bold Heart Campaign. Donors who make pledges have up to five years to fulfill their pledge. The money already pledged is spread across the three major initiatives within the campaign, which include the Capital Campaign, the Annual Fund, and the endowment. Of that $42M, approximately $11M is earmarked for the Learning Commons. Four million dollars of that $11M came from the RACP grant, while the remaining $7M came from donors. Zehel referred questions regarding the amount of pledges that have already been fulfilled to Garvey. Garvey could not be reached before press time for comment. Since the groundbreaking, the project has been underway for more than a year. Most recently, students, faculty, and staff had the opportunity to sign the structural beam that completes the frame of the Learning Commons. On Oct. 8, Sr. Anne Munley, I.H.M., Ph.D., president of Marywood, invited members of the campus community to the "topping off" ceremony where construction workers lifted the signed beam with an evergreen tree placed atop it to complete the
building's frame. According to Munley, these events serve a symbolic purpose for everyone on campus. "We are a values-based institution, and respect is critical to all we do. It seemed an appropriate time to really respect God’s creation and that's why we did the topping off with the tree, which symbolizes that God’s creation is above all creation," said Sr. Anne a few days after the ceremony. The structure will house cafes, multiple lounges, the Entrepreneur Launch Pad, book retrieval systems, and much more. "This will be the intellectual and social center of our campus. We have had more than a ten year history of researching the kind of services, and programmatics, and technology, and social learning space that needs to be a part of Learning commons that will serve this and the broader community for many years going forward," said Sr. Anne. Of course with the construction of such an ambitious project, there are also several concerns. Once lingering concern is the unpredictable weather, which may prove troublesome during colder months. "The weather’s been with us. In the next few weeks, the crane will be finished with that part of construction, and we’ll be able to focus on the walls and the interior, so it’s moving along. It’s moving along on time," said Sr. Anne. Contact the writer: vmschultz@m.marywood.edu
Photo Credit/ Katlynn Whitaker
Green bows decorate buildings for Philanthropy Day. Satara Dickey News Editor Marywood celebrated its first Philanthropy Day on Thursday, Nov. 13. Buildings on campus were decorated with green bows that represented Marywood alumni, family, and friends whose generous donations made each facility possible. Each bow contained information about Philanthropy Day and the benefactor that building was named after. “Our hope is to create awareness of our benefactors and the fact that they donated resources so the students can have a building to continue their education in,” said Leon John Jr., associate director of Alumni Engagement. The idea for Philanthropy Day came from Christina Mace, director of Annual Giving Programs, and Rose Jacklinski, assistant director of Annual Giving
EVALUATIONS From page 1
All PIN’s are destroyed as soon as the evaluation is complete. “It’s important for the students to know that the evaluation cannot be traced back to them in anyway,” said Dr. Kathleen O'Neill Ruthkosky, associate vice president for the Office of Planning and Institutional Effectiveness. The questions the students will be asked are the same ones that
Programs. “It’s important to show appreciation, gratitude, and value to the people who have given to Marywood,” said Jacklinski. Students were able to participate in Philanthropy Day by signing the thank you board, which was on display in the Nazareth Student Center, to say thanks to all those who have given gifts to Marywood. Students were also asked to take "selfies" in front of the buildings with bows and thank you board and share them on social media using the hashtag #100MarywoodWays. “We thought this was a great interactive way to engage students and get them involved,” said John. Any student who participated on social media was automatically entered to win a $50 gift card. Contact the writer: sdickey@m.marywood.edu
were used with the paper format. The online course evaluation link is located on the Students landing page in the "Resources" section of the Marywood portal. “Our goal is to have information back to the faculty more quickly so that they can make any changes in that course for the next time they teach it or the next semester,” said Ruthkosky. Contact the writer: sdickey@m.marywood.edu
NEWS
November 2014
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College of Liberal Arts and Sciences named after Sr. Anne Autumn Granza Editor- in- Chief On Oct. 18, the Board of Trustees announced at the annual 2015 Society Dinner that the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences will be named in honor of Sr. Anne Munley, I.H.M., Ph.D. The new name for the college is "The Munley College of Liberal Arts and Sciences." Sr. Anne has been president of the University since 2007 and is Marywood's 11th president. The board of trustees, aware of her approaching 50th anniversary as an I.H.M. Sister, honored her contribution to the congregation and to the University with the naming. "I was very deeply touched and very humbled," said Sr. Anne. "I understand and I recognize why [the Board of Trustees] wanted to do something special on the occasion of her 50th anniversary with the I.H.M. Sisters," said Dr. Frances M. Zau-
har, Dean of the Munley College of Liberal Arts and Science. "...It was a very strong statement from the Board of Trustees. [It shows] how highly they regard the work that [Sr. Anne] does and has done around the world." The Munley College is the third to undergo a name change at Marywood. The Insalaco College of Creative and Performing Arts was renamed in 2006 after donors Michael and Dolores Insalaco. Michael Insalaco is also a Trustee Emeriti. The Reap College of Education & Human Development was named in 2007 after Sister Mary Reap, I.H.M., Marywood's 10th president. Sr. Anne said she believes that there is room for more recognition and other colleges have the potential of being renamed in the future. “We have had people that have made enormous contributions to Marywood,” said Sr. Anne. “Really giving of themselves, giving
Sr. Anne Munley address crowd at a ceremony held on campus. of their time, giving of their treasure. And I think that some recognitions that you see in some of our facilities are related to people who very much believe in the Marywood mission and who very much believe in the values that are so central to what we do here.” Sr. Anne believes that the renaming of the college is a reflection of the I.H.M. congregation. “All through out Marywood’s history, I.H.M. Sisters have con-
tinued to give of themselves to fostering the development of Marywood University,” said Sr. Anne. “And so, for me it is a celebration of that founding vision and also the great joy that the vision continues and goes on into the future.” Sr. Anne received her undergraduate degree in sociology and history and government from Marywood and was also a faculty member in the Social Science
Photo Credit/ Katlynn Whitaker
Department. “I feel that it is amazing what has happened to Marywood in its’ hundred year history,” said Sr. Anne. “And it is a wonderful thing that a substantive part of my life has been intertwined with that history, and I feel that there is so much yet to come.” Contact the writer: agranza@m.marywood.edu
Saudi Club sponsors Arabic language classes Marywood’s SCJ chapter Satara Dickey language." wood students and employees inducts new members News Editor The Saudi Student Club is now offering Arabic language classes to the Marywood community. “We thought this was a good opportunity to share our culture and language,” said Sultan Almansour, president of the Saudi Student Club and graduate student in communication arts. The classes are offered under the supervision of the International Club. There are currently two classes. One class has five students under the age of 10 and the other has six students above the age of 18. “All the students seem eager and happy to be learning. In fact, they are smiling all the time,” said Almansour. “Language learning is important for better understanding of cultures,” said Dr. Ahmed Gomma, assistant business professor and adviser for the Saudi Student Club. “If you want to understand the societies around you, then it’s crucial that you understand the
The classes take place every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the McGowan Center. The cost is $100 for the semester and includes a total of 14 classes. The Saudi Club has seen a great response from Marywood and the community for conducting the classes. “The reaction has been fantastic. We have a number of Mary-
that joined us and some individuals from the community at large,” said Gomma. “The Arabic language is one of the most popular languages, and learning it will give people more understanding about the people who speak this language,” said Almansour. Contact the writer: sdickey@m.marywood.edu
Photo Credit/ Paul Sevensky
On Friday Nov. 14 Marywood’s Society of Collegiate Journalist’s chapter inducted 10 new members. Pictured left to right Paul Capoccia, Cameron Dieck, Patrick Kernan, Esperanza Gutierrez, Haley O’Brien, Alex Weidner, Anne Zukowski, Juilette Meyers and Brandon Melo. Scott Schaffer, co anchor of WNEP-TV, served as guest speaker. Photo Credit/ Katlynn Whitaker
Arabic flag on display at Arabic Awarness day hosted on campus
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SAC leadership attended national Campus Engagement conference Students return with plans to “mix it up” next Spring Brigid Edmunds Multimedia Editor Members of Marywood’s Student Activities Crew (SAC) recently took their talents to the National Association for Campus Activities’ (NACA) annual conference in Hartford, Conn. The theme of this year's conference was “Mixing it Up,” and included an event called CAMP, which gave students a chance to see different vendors, such as musical acts, that they can book for their schools. Seven people from Marywood attended the conference, including junior early education major Lisa Patmos, senior communication arts major Tom Muscarello, and junior pre-chiropractic major Maria Temples. Patmos attended the conference last year and went again this year to give a presentation with Muscarello on “homegrown events,” which Patmos said describes the bulk of events that SAC puts on. “What it means is that the event is entirely organic and built from scratch by the people running it,” said Patmos. Patmos said that the application to be selected to present started in May something missing here?, and they had to send in a full outline of the presentation and wait to see if they got picked. The three day event wasn’t just about presenting, though. Everyone who attended the conference came back to Marywood having learned a great deal. Patmos attended a presentation on “programming for the
NEWS
November 2014
male population,” and hopes to use what she learned to help engage the male population on campus. “It was really interesting to me,” said Patmos. “Marywood is definitely a female dominant school and I felt that some of our events definitely cater more toward females than our male classmates.” Temples attended the conference for the first time this year, and enjoyed her time there to learn. “I was really excited for it,” she said. “And it met all my expectations.” Temples said she attended a lot of presentations and saw a lot of vendors that she would love to see at Marywood some day. At CAMP, she found a vendor who would let students pick out their own oyster and get the pearl from it. Then, the vendor shines the pearl and gives it to the students. He would also set the pearl for rings or bracelets. “I thought it was very unique and it stood out,” said Temples. “No one has these kinds of events.” Patmos said students can certainly expect SAC to “mix it up” for next semester. While she wouldn't give away any details, Patmos promises students are in for a treat come spring semester. “You can expect some of the very popular classics along with some new performers and even more giveaways,” said Patmos. Contact the writer: bedmunds@m.marywood.edu
Marywood's Aphasia Group wins award Satara Dickey News Editor Marywood University’s Aphasia Group was awarded the 2014 Raising Awareness in Stroke Excellence (RAISE) Award for Outstanding Support Group by the National Stroke Association. According to stroke.org, the Outstanding Support Group Award honors a stroke support group for making an innovative and robust impact on the lives of stroke survivors, caregivers, and others impacted by stroke through connection, empowerment, and education. Marywood’s Aphasia Group was selected out of 462 national submissions. “This national award is well deserved,” said Marla Kovach, supervisor of the Aphasia group. “I am so proud of our members/ caregivers, our students, and our CSD Department for making this support group possible and successful in raising awareness.”
Photo Courtesy/ Marla Kovach
Marywood’s Aphasia Group gathers outside the McGowan Center for a group photo. Marywood’s Aphasia group is a free community service support group comprised of various people at any stage of their stroke recovery. “It is so gratifying to experience how the individual and family affected by aphasia progresses through their journey in rehabili-
tation, as well as the CSD graduate student who fosters their clinical skills in treating per skill level of the client, since aphasia affects each person/family so differently,” concluded Kovach. Contact the writer: sdickey@m.marywood.edu
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OPINION
November 2014
Our Opinion: Date change for graduation spells longer winter break, better Mother’s Day The Wood Word Editorial Staff Those who have been here at Marywood for more than a year may have noticed that the upcoming winter break is a bit longer than it has been in the past. According to the University’s calendar, this semester ends on Dec. 13, while the next one picks up again on Jan. 14, giving students just a bit over a month to enjoy themselves during the break. While the break always hovered around a month in length, it was never quite this long before. And while The Wood Word is
anxiously awaiting this break as much as anyone else, it is important to ask why it is being made longer in the first place. It all comes down to graduation. Traditionally, seniors at Marywood have graduated on the second Sunday in May. This means that the commencement ceremony had to compete with arguably the most important holiday: Mother’s Day. In 2015, Mother’s Day will be on May 10. Commencement, however, falls on Saturday, May 16. With graduation taking place a week later than normal, the semester starts a week later to en-
Ebola and You:
And why the two are likely never to meet Patrick Kernan Opinion Editor
It’s been all over the news since the summertime. “Ebola outbreak bad news for West Africa,” the headlines read, while the articles were usually fraught with the implication “And it’s coming for you!” But here’s the thing: it’s not, and it was never going to. As I write this article on Nov. 11, CNN is reporting that Dr. Craig Spencer, the doctor who contracted the disease in Africa and brought it back to New York City, is leaving the hospital. Spencer began his news conference by saying, “Today I am healthy, and no longer infectious.” With Spencer’s release from the hospital, there are no longer any known cases of individuals with Ebola in the United States. It was unlikely that Ebola ever would have been a major issue in the United States anyway, though. According to the CDC, the only ways for a person to contract Ebola is to either somehow ingest the bodily fluids of someone who has it, or to eat an infected fruit bat or primate. For Americans, the second method of contracting Ebola is ob-
viously not a problem, since neither fruit bats nor primates are a part of the average American’s diet. However, the first way of contracting Ebola is not much of a problem for Americans, either. This is mostly due to the fact that America’s health care technology and hygienic standards are of a far higher quality than those of West Africa. As Spencer said in his news conference, “Early detection is critical to both surviving Ebola and ensuring that it is not transmitted to others.” Early detection is something that is possible in the United States but comparatively difficult in West Africa. Try not to get too worried about Ebola. Unless you’ve recently been to West Africa or are close with someone who has, your chances of contracting the disease are incredibly small, even if someone else contracts the disease in the United States. Soon, Ebola will join the ranks of SARS, bird flu, and mad cow disease: illnesses that were more important to news media than to the average American. Contact the writer: pkernan@m.marywood.edu.
sure that the semester is kept at its appropriate length. It’s hard to see a downside to this. A longer break for the holidays and no more competition between graduation and Mother’s Day are undoubtedly the best features of the shifted date of graduation, but perhaps there is one downside. With commencement on a Saturday, the hooding ceremony, which was traditionally on a Saturday, has now been moved to Friday. This might add some extra conflicts with work for both graduates and guests that would not have arisen with the gradu-
ation events taking place on the weekend. Those that find themselves grumbling about a point like this, remember that graduation only happens once, whether it’s one’s own or that of one’s son or daughter. Life after graduation is nothing but work, so take the Friday off and enjoy it. With that said, The Wood Word would like to wish everyone luck with the rest of their semester, and an enjoyable—and extra-long—break. Have an opinion? Contact us: thewoodword@m.marywood. edu
NEPA achieving national fame for all the wrong reasons
Graphic Credit/ Katlynn Whitaker
Patrick Kernan Opinion Editor Northeast Pennsylvania has been the talk of the nation, recently. Unfortunately, it’s all been bad news. Last year, Elytte and Miranda Barbour murdered Troy LaFerrara for a thrill after meeting him through the website Craigslist. According to WNEP, the couple was sentenced to life in prison in September of this year. Also in September, Eric Frein allegedly shot and killed Cpl. Bryon Dickson and injured Trooper Alex Douglass at the Blooming Grove State Police barracks, before leading police on a 7-weeklong manhunt. In October, 10-year-old Tristen Kurilla allegedly punched 90-year-old Helen Novak in the throat several times after an argument between the two, killing her. According to WNEP, the boy is being charged as an adult. I’ve lived in Northeast Penn-
sylvania for my entire life, and I don’t remember a string of violent events like this happening here at any other point of my life. I’m used to a calm, quiet NEPA, and I hate the fact that our area is being featured on national news channels for such terrible news. Of course, things like this are inevitable. If a story like the Barbours’, Frein’s, or Kurilla’s did not happen here, similar stories would surely happen elsewhere. Such is the uncomfortable nature of life. But is it too much to ask that these events don’t happen here? When I leave the area and say I’m from Scranton, I want people to ask me “That’s where ‘The Office’ takes place, right?” but I’m afraid they will soon be asking “That’s where all that crazy stuff goes on, right?” I’m hoping that, soon enough, NEPA can find its way back into national headlines, but this time it will be for something good, something remarkable. And hopefully, whatever it is, it will be less annoying than the “Apparently Kid.” Contact the writer: pkernan@m.marywood.edu.
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THE WOOD WORD An award winning student newspaper
A product of the Marywood University Communication Arts Department
Autumn Granza Editor-in-Chief Vincent Schultz Managing Editor Satara Dickey News Editor Mackenzie Warren Web Editor Brigid Edmunds Multimedia Editor Brandon Melo Asst. Multimedia Editor Patrick Kernan Opinion Editor Paul Capoccia Community Editor Juliette Meyers A&E Editor Francelis Capellan Asst. A&E Editor Evan Felser Sports Editor Katie Hart Asst. Sports Editor Kelsey Van Horn Design Editor Katlynn Whitaker Photography Editor Asst. Design Editor Alex Weidner Asst. Photography Editor Janice Richardson Copy Editor Sarah E. Cruz Copy Editor Lindsey Matylewicz Advertising Manager Erin Murphy Asst. Advertising Manager Lindsey Wotanis, Ph.D Faculty Adviser Paul J. Sevensky, M.A. Faculty Adviser
Have an opinion?
Submit a letter to the editor: Letters must be 300 words or fewer. The Wood Word reserves the right to edit letters for length and grammar. Send name, title, photo, and a phone number where you can be reached to: thewoodword@ m.marywood.edu
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OPINION
November 2014
He Said, She Said: Are drone strikes worth the risk? He Said: Drones can be the best way to wage war Patrick Kernan Opinion Editor
As I write this, Veterans Day 2014 is winding to a close. All day, I’ve seen signs, articles, and tweets suggesting that I “remember our troops” and “thank a vet.” Veterans Day reminds Americans of the servicemen and women who risk everything in order to keep the nation that they love safe. But what if they didn’t need to risk it all? What if keeping America safe was as easy as the click of a mouse? The technology already exists in remote controlled aircraft called drones. Drones are essentially enhanced versions of the RC plane you might of played with as a kid. The two main differences are that they can be controlled from hundreds of miles away, and that they can be weaponized. The question is, of course, whether bombing people remotely from far away is ethical. To put things far too simply, I think that the answer is “Yes.” To be a bit
more specific, the answer is really “It depends.” With the recent rise of the violent radical Islamic group ISIS in the Middle East, drones have been used to combat the group’s advances. The United States has been doing this for some time, and, according to The Guardian, the United Kingdom began drone strikes of their own on ISIS on Nov. 10. The threat posed by ISIS, to both Americans and others, is clear. It is an incredibly violent group that has shown that it is willing to stop at nothing to achieve its radical goals. If the technology exists to defend our nation against ISIS remotely, the question is no longer about if it is ethical to use that technology. Instead, one must ask if it would even be ethical to put real troops on the ground. I would argue that the only right choice would be to use drone strikes against groups like ISIS, who pose an extreme threat. Are drones a technology that need to be used in every combat situa-
She Said: How safe are drones if they can be hacked? Lindsey Matylewicz Advertising Manager
Photo Credit/ Alex Weidner Lindsey Matylewicz and Patrick Kernan square off over drone srikes on groups like ISIS.
tion? Not at all. There are plenty of situations that could be better handled by actual troops. But with groups like ISIS, the best bet seems to be dealing with it remotely. With technology like drones, maybe we’ll see more and more veterans safe at home on Veterans Day in the coming years. Contact the writer: pkernan@m.marywood.edu.
Mike Magistro’s Chinese adventure winds down
Photo Courtesy/ Mike Magistro
Mike Magistro finds himself at the Great Wall on the latest leg of his adventure.
Mike Magistro Correspondent
My time in Beijing is coming to a close rather rapidly. Over the last few months, I’ve
had many adventures that have taken me all over this city. There are two adventures, however, that are quite simply my favorite. The first was my trip to the Great Wall at the Badaling site. This particular portion of the Great Wall has been restored to make it accessible to foreigners and Chinese people who wish to visit it. Badaling's wall stretches over many miles and it would take more than a day to hike the entire thing. The wall alternates between steps and steep, smooth slopes as the ways to travel it. Talk about a leg workout! My other favorite adventure was an excursion to the city of TianJin. While not in Beijing, it is easily accessed by a half hour ride on a high-speed train. The city is absolutely beautiful.
A former port city for foreign countries after the Opium Wars, TianJin retains a great deal of influence from European and American culture. The architecture represents a meshing of Chinese thought and European design. The bridges that cross the river in the city are each differently designed to reflect a different culture or innovative design. I have really fallen in love with the city and would return to China just to visit TianJin.
Although Mike’s adventure has come to an end, you can read more about it on The Wood Word’s website, thewoodword.org.
Drones are a great tool for our military, especially those involving a highly dangerous target. They can identify and pinpoint their strike miles away in the sky without risking the lives of our troops. With a target like ISIS afoot, using a drone would be a logical plan of attack. But, how safe is a drone if you turned it around, pointing the missile on our territory? It may be paranoia setting in, but apparently a drone being hacked is not an over-exaggerated risk. The BBC offered some input on the computer system inside a drone and how outside civilians and enemies can manipulate it in their article, “Are drones the next target for hackers?” The system of a drone navigates through Global Positioning System (GPS). This system can be disoriented making the drone think enemy territory is a home base. Once this drone is landed,
the hackers can then approach it and kidnap it without the drone responding in defense. At the University of Texas, assistant professor of aerospace engineering, Todd Humphreys, said he believed that he and a group of students could perform the act of a “spoof” or fooling of a drone. With only $2,000 worth of equipment and the supervision of the US Department of Homeland Security, they dislodged a flying and functioning drone. We think ISIS is dangerous on the ground. How more dangerous will they be if they disable and then use our weaponry? A drone may not be able to fly back over to the United States if hacked, but it can attack the surrounding military stations. So, yes, a drone is a great weapon to have if you want to be nameless and safe about taking out an opponent in war, but in the wrong hands it can be equally as dangerous if the cross hairs are aimed back at you. Contact the writer: lmatylewicz@m.marywood.edu.
Marywood should better represent other religious holidays Patrick Kernan Opinion Editor Christmas is coming, and all Marywood students know what that means: the return of the giant Christmas tree in the Rotunda at the Liberal Arts Center. And, with the Christmas tree comes the single, small menorah, easy to miss amongst the Christmas festivities. Marywood is a Catholic school; this is obvious even from looking at the University’s name, as it reflects a long tradition of revering Mary in the Roman Catholic Church. But just because Marywood is a Catholic university does not mean that all of its students are themselves Catholic. The University is a microcosm of society, and
groups from various walks of life are represented here. Marywood prides itself in being a multicultural community, an image that is promoted on a bulletin board in the LAC--just down the hall from where the Christmas tree stands--and has a growing population of international students. But sometimes I feel like the only culture represented on campus is that of the supposed majority. Do I have any real right to complain? As a Roman Catholic of Irish descent, my traditions are fairly well represented here at Marywood. Please see CULTURES, page 10.
Community
November 2014
Talk of the U discussions creating campus buzz Paul Capoccia Community Editor The recent informal societal discussions in the Nazareth Student Center are beginning to find a following. The Talk of the University are a series of informal meetings facilitated by faculty and students regarding hot topics and issues across the country and around the globe. The Talk of the University held their latest discussion, “#Revolution?: Social Movements in the Age of Social Media,” in the upper Main Dining Room on Nov. 17. Another recent session of the Talk of the University: “What You Should Know,” was about the NFL and college football’s current sport culture. The topic came to fruition with the emergence of several NFL players being convicted of domestic abuse and the landslide of academic scandals in the NCAA. Previous discussions have been about ISIS and the series of incidents that took place in Ferguson, Mo. “The goal [of the discussions] is to empower university community members to be engaged and informed citizens and to fos-
ter respect for human dignity,” said Ross Novak, senior director of Student Conduct & Residence Life and one of the organizers of the events. “With this goal in mind, the committee selects discussion topics based on current events.” The series had about 70 people in attendance for the two discussions on Ferguson and ISIS, while the NFL program’s discussion attendance dipped slightly due to a change of time. Organizers are continuing to search for the best time for the most people to attend. Dr. Alexander Dawoody, associate professor of Public Administration, facilitated the discussion on ISIS. “Let’s get a university-wide talk, not lecture, talk,” said Dawoody about organizing the events, “get the students involved in responding to public current issues, get their opinions of it, and talk about what we should do as global citizens in response [to them].” Novak hopes to schedule a discussion on Ebola before Thanksgiving break to wrap up the series for the Fall semester. Contact the writer: pcapoccia@m.marywood.edu
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Students experience world culture at United Nations Day event Paul Capoccia Community Editor Marywood raised several national flags and welcomed international speakers on Oct. 22 for United Nations Day. The Office of International Affairs, the College of Health and Human Services, and Marywood’s Fulbright Committee hosted a United Nations Day celebration. Marywood celebrated UN Day by hosting an evening of guest speakers, a reading of the Universal Declaration of Human rights, a brief history of the United Nations, and a mock demonstration of the United Nations Security Council. Students participated in the evening as national ambassadors for various nations, presenting issues before the rest of the council and debating proposals. Other students participated by wearing the traditional clothes of a specific nation. Dr. Alexander Dawoody, associate professor of Public Administration, organized the event. “It was the students’ enthusiasm itself,” said Dawoody about his favorite part of organizing the evening. “They wanted to be part of the project, and as they learned
about the different countries, their politics, their cultures, and the dynamic of the UN Security Council ... they were intrigued.” The evening was filled with several guest speakers and musical performances in addition to the UN Security Council session. Speakers included Marywood faculty as well as speakers like the Kurdish Ambassador to the United States, Karwan Zebari, who spoke of how important the UN is to worldwide safety and security. The evening’s various events made it possible for students to be interested in different parts of the night. “I think I’m most looking forward to seeing a reenactment of
the government,” said junior social work major Chris Grassi before the event. “I think it’s going to give me some insight into how government processes run. Being a social work major we have a lot of working with policies, and I want to see how that happens and how I can help that in my future.” Junior social work major Kelly Schultz said she found other parts interesting as well. “The most interesting part of the event for me was the ISIS talk. It gave me a lot of information to stop the heinous acts being performed,” Kelly said. Contact the writer: pcapoccia@m.marywood.edu
Photo Credit/ Paul Capoccia
Dr. Alexander Dawoody welcomes all of the students present at the UN Day event during his introduction.
Activities on campus of 100 years ago similar to those of today Patrick Kernan Opinion Editor
Photo Credit/ Alex Weidner Students listen to Dr. Dawoody discuss ISIS during the Talk of the University discussion that took place in the Nazareth Upper Main Dining Hall on Oct. 3.
In observation of Marywood’s one-hundredth year, The Wood Word will be examining the university’s extensive history in one article per issue. Make sure to keep checking back to learn about the school’s past and about what’s to come. Besides classes, homework, and cramming for tests, one of the many things a college student has to look forward to is campus activities. Surprisingly, the types of events held on campus haven’t changed much over the past 100 years. Jim Frutchey, an associate professor who works in library
services at Marywood, was kind enough to supply The Wood Word with archival resources detailing the activities in which university students could participate. One of the documents was an extensive chronicle, detailing every university-held event and the dates on which they were held, dating from the founding of Marywood. According to the chronicle, activities tended to include guest speakers, plays, and musical performances. Looking at the events and their dates can make the history of the university feel more tangible. For example, the chronicle states that on Sept. 14, 1922, student government held elections.
Interestingly enough, this is the same date on which the English department began offering a course in journalism. On April 22, 1926, a Dr. Lucas delivered a lecture on what was called “The Science of Technology,” and in June of 1927, the drama club performed renditions of “The Land of Heart’s Desire,” “Echo and Narcissus,” and “The Three Kings.” Although the exact details of these lectures and lessons have been lost over time, one thing is clear: Marywood students of old were able to enjoy many of the same types of activities as today’s students. Contact the writer: pkernan@m.marywood.edu
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Comm
Exploring New Ideas
Research and Publishing On Campus
Several Math majors engaging in research with faculty Paul Capoccia Community Editor Marywood’s Math majors are striving for excellence in the classroom and outside of it in their research. Currently, Math department seniors Josh Carey, Travis Pitchford, and junior Susan Durand are working on multiple projects with several of the professors. Josh Carey and Susan Durand are working together with Dr. Craig Johnson, professor of Mathematics, on modeling the arctic ice change using linear algebra in addition to their independent research. Carey is working with Dr. Thomas Kent, assistant professor of Mathematics, and Durand is also working with Kent and a biologist from the University of Scranton on modeling ant behavior. “It is already known that ants use pheromones and an internal magnetic compass as navigation tools, so our research is exploring the ways in which ants use visual clues, such as landmarks, to orient themselves and find their nest,” said Durand. Pitchford is collaborating with Dr. Zaixin Lu, the first professor of Marywood University’s new Computer Science department. They are involved with wireless power transfer and wireless sensor networks. That is, working with powering things like a battery or even a computer using a wireless signal.
The field of wireless power transfer is a new and changing field, a field which Pitchford is excited to be a part of. “I like programming so much because the things I work on and build nobody else has done before,” said Travis, “Even for my job and research now, I’m building a system in a way that probably no other individual has done. That’s exciting to me.” His professor and colleague, Dr. Lu, agreed. He continues to be excited about working alongside his students. “We must encourage and reward our students to do research and think creatively and critically.” said Dr. Lu. “We must foster the ability to analyze phenomenons and complicated problems. Only in this way can they constantly make progress [in their education].” As the Math department and the new Computer Science department continue to work together and independently, Dr. Chaogui Zhang, chairperson of the Math department, said he has a lot to be proud of and hopes to keep this research going. “I think it is critically important for undergraduate students to have the opportunity to engage in research projects because it will
reinforce their learning, provide a window to see some of the exciting things faculty may be working on, and lead the students to the forefront of creating and sharing new knowledge,” said Zhang. Contact the writer: pcapoccia@m.marywood.edu
Photo Credit/ Paul Capoccia
Travis Pitchford (left) and Computer Science professor Dr. Zaixin Lu (right) stand next to their wireless power transfer apparatus.
“I like programming so much because the things I work on and build nobody else has done before. Even for my job and research now, I’m building a system in a way that probably no other individual has done. That’s exciting to me.” -Travis Pitchford, Math Department Senior
munity
Researching Comfort
Marywood exploring possibility of a Publishing Lab Paul Capoccia Community Editor
Members of the Marywood community are able to test out samples of the furniture that may be placed in the Learning Commons.
(From left to right) Kaitlyn Jones, financial planning and mathematics major, Matthew Parkyn, business management and marketing major, and John McHale, business management, implemented the whiteboard-table during their study time.
Several tables were placed in the library that will potentially be used for lounge and cafe areas in the Learning Commons.
Photo Credit/ Alex Weidner
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portunity for many students and clubs,” said junior English secondary education major, Jim Asbury. “It would open up a number of chances for experience in publishing, a major industry.” “I’ve had several students tell me that they’re interested in careers in publishing and would love to intern at the lab,” said Sebastiani. “Our students would get real world experience.” Moving forward, Sebastiani is
With the Learning Commons set to open this fall, Marywood is exploring another option for education and literary distribution. A publishing lab is a studentdriven alternative to a traditional university press. It would be designed as a cost-effective alternative for students to publish their work. It would also allow faculty, regional interests, and reThe new Publishing Lab would search from the African Sisters Education Collab- be for English, art, communication arts, and business majors, as well orative to be published. “A publishing lab would as anyone who wants to write, edit, be a great way to take ad- design, illustrate, or market books, says the proposal. vantage of the wonderful new resources in the Learning Commons,” said pro- gathering the data from a surposal creator Dr. Lee Sebastiani, vey recently sent to all students testing coordinator and adjunct for their thoughts on the new lab. faculty in the Psychology and Ed- Any students with suggestions on ucation departments. “Students the Publishing Lab proposal, and and faculty can work together the possibility of a for-credit Pubto write, edit, design, and mar- lishing Lab course, are encourket everything from faculty re- aged to email testing@marywood. search and literary works to local edu. “It always looks great on Enghistory.” The new Publishing Lab would lish majors’ resumes to have work be for English, art, communica- published,” said Amanda Thorntion arts, and business majors, ley, junior English major and as well as anyone who wants to English Club president. “This write, edit, design, illustrate, or could give Marywood English majors an edge.” market books, says the proposal. Contact the writer: “I believe it would be a great oppcapoccia@m.marywood.edu
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Community
November 2014
Sr. John says: Explore other ways to give this Christmas Sr. John Michele Southwick, I.H.M. Special Contributor to The Wood Word
There are alternative ways to give this Christmas. Do you ever get tired of the hustle and rush of the Christmas season and lose sight of the whole purpose of Advent and Christmas? You spend so much time and energy looking for that perfect gift to give to someone who already has everything. What’s the point? Well, there are some alternative gifts that can not only “give” to the recipient, but also to those in need. Fair Trade is a concrete way to buy handcrafted items from artisans and farmers from around the world. Fair Trade is an excellent example of giving a gift that gives back to the maker with a fair price for their work. There is no middle person that takes part of the profit. We will be having a Fair Trade sale on campus Nov. 24 and Dec. 3 in the Fireplace Lounge from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Also consider donating to orga-
nizations that help improve the lives of those most in need. For example, Catholic Relief Service has a gift catalog online where you can choose from health projects and education to water and emergency relief. Go to crs.org and search for “gift catalog” in the top left hand corner, and it will show you all of your options. Imagine for only $30.00 you could buy a handwashing station to protect children from diseases like diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid, or for the same price buy a family of six malaria nets to protect them from in-
Fair Trade is an excellent example of giving a gift that gives back to the maker with a fair price for their work. fested mosquitoes. You can make your donation in someone’s name. It reminds people of the true spirit of Christmas and those in the world who are far less fortunate than we are. You can make a difference not only to them, but also to those whom you give the gift. Another idea is Heifer International, which allows you to give in someone else’s name to a favorite charity. Contact the writer: southwick@marywood.edu
CULTURES
Continued from Page 6
But I would still love to see more representation of other traditions from around the world. In addition to Christmas, many of our students celebrate holidays such as Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Diwali, and the Islamic New Year in the final three months of the year. Personally, I would love to see menorahs for Hanukkah, lights for Diwali, and symbols around campus of all of the cultural and religious holidays that the university’s students celebrate. After all, what is the point of college if not to learn about the
cultures of other people? If we, as a university community, make non-Catholic holidays more important, we will all get a great chance to learn more about each other. I love the Christmas tree in the Rotunda, and I can’t wait for its debut this year. But, I hope that, maybe next year, we will see some other cultures represented in the Rotunda throughout the entire year. Contact the writer: pkernan@m.marywood.edu.
Paul Capoccia Community Editor
time to explore my hobbies and things I can enjoy that aren’t determining my future.
Josh Carey is a senior Math major with a music minor graduating after the 2014 Fall semester. He participates in Big House, Men’s Group, Wind Ensemble, Campus Choir, and various other activities and service opportunities. He has been writing his own Mass setting, and doing research for both his Honors Thesis and separate academic studies.
Q: What do you hope to concentrate in at the graduate level? A: I’m applying to Ph.D. programs that will help me get my Masters along the way to teach at the college level. At some point, I’ll decide my concentration in the Math field; right now I love the field of geometry. There’s no telling what I’ll choose because the first few years are exploring so I may find something on the opposite end of the spectrum.
Q: What do you plan on doing in the spring? A: During the spring, I’m going to try to work a little. I’m going to see if I can tutor some high school and middle school students, and I’m going to offer to be organist for any local churches that need people on Sundays or for funerals or services. I’m mostly going to relax though and use the time to unwind after seven semesters of college and reset myself before delving into the uncharted waters of graduate school. I’ll have
Paul Capoccia Community Editor 1 Timothy 4:12, it is written: “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity.” The group 4:12 for Women is dedicated to the renewal of faith for college students. Meeting twice a month, 4:12 for Women, also known as Women’s Group, is a fun, open, and friendly way for women at Marywood to delve into topics like relationships, stress, pressure, and happiness, according to their information page on
Q: What have you done as an organist and as a musician on campus through the years? A: I’ve always been very interested and passionate about music. I’ve been very excited with how much music I’ve been allowed to take part of without majoring in it. I have the music minor, which gave me a lot of classes that helped me round out my abilities. I plan to do a recital in the spring. I’ve been in the wind en-
the Marywood Campus Ministry page. “Our meetings are like having a mini-retreat twice a month,” said Alison Demelim, group co-leader and junior early childhood and special education major. “We plan awesome topics and have a great time together.” Women’s Group, in addition to having discussions on a variety of topics, often takes part in service projects and even has events with the Men’s Group. Most recently, they helped contribute to the Adopt-A-Family food drive, played ultimate Frisbee, and had a joint Halloween party with the Men’s Group. Susan Durand, junior math
Photo Credit/ Paul Capoccia
Name: Josh Carey Major: Math Year: 2015 Hometown: Harding, Pa semble playing alto sax which has been a lot of fun. It’s also been a lot of fun with the campus choir to make music at a professional level and to explore the field as much as I love to. As far as being an organist, I’ve had the opportunity to fill in at a lot of beautiful churches in the area and to go to places I never really would’ve gone to before. I’ve worked at a couple different church jobs, and they’ve really helped give me experience in the real world of being a church musician. Contact the writer: pcapoccia@m.marywood.edu
major and co-leader, said she enjoys the various topics and events as well. “My favorite part of 4:12 for Women is being able to get so many different perspectives on our topics. Our group has members from freshmen to seniors, and a variety of majors. Each member brings a unique perspective and life experience, and it is great to hear all they have to say,” said Susan. Meetings are held twice a month on Sundays at 8:30 p.m. in the Swartz Center for Spiritual Life. All female students are encouraged to join. Male students interested in a similar group can find information about Men’s Group on the Marywood Campus Ministry page as well. If interested, contact campusministry@marywood.edu. Contact the writer: pcapoccia@m.marywood.edu
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
November 2014
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Mahady Gallery features Scranton artist Chala Jan Juliette Meyers A&E Editor Erin Yeager Staff Writer
Photo Credit/ Katlynn Whitaker
Chala Jan’s “Flight of Fancy” exhibit showcased in the Mahady Gallery in the Shields Center for Visual Arts.
The Mahady Gallery at Marywood University hosted the Flight of Fancy exhibition reception on Oct. 18 at 6:00 p.m. The exhibit will run through Nov. 23. The Flight of Fancy exhibit showcases a body of photographic works by Scranton-based artist Chala Janpraphasakul’s (commonly known as Chala Jan). Jan is a fine art photographer and software developer. She is originally from Thailand but has lived in the United States since 1998. Jan graduated from Hunter College in 2004 and has a degree in computer software. She now works in Scranton as a software developer. Jan’s art ties into her work, as several of her photographs are edited using digital processing tools to generate elements of
Students practice manners at annual Ettiquette Dinner Erin Yeager Staff Writer Students will have a chance to brush up on their dinner-table manners this Thursday at the Career Services annual Etiquette Dinner. Dr. Carole Gustitus, director of Career Services, will host the program on Nov. 20 in the upper main dining room of the Nazareth Student Center. “The focus will be on how to make the best possible impression on colleagues, VIPs, and potential employers," said Gustitus. "Like how to write a business letter, [learning dinner etiquette] is about building a personal character, a behavior for yourself.” Along with a four course meal, the dinner will also feature author and etiquette educator Robert A. Shutt, who will add to the importance of manners and courtesy. “With Mr. Shutt, we’ll delve into what forks to use and when
it is appropriate to start eating, and how to hold conversations while doing so," said Gustitus. “It will be a valuable learning experience.” According to Gustitus, the dinner will not only benefit the students participating, but also future employers who will eventually have to work with them, as well as Marywood University. Desiree McCabe, freshman political science major, said she's looking forward to the event. "After I graduate, I'd like to get a neat job with my major," said McCabe. "With the line of work I want to get into, I have to keep a certain image for myself. Being a part of the dinner could really help my chances of getting a better job in my field." “Employers will usually look for how a student's behavior was in college,” said Gustitus. Please see ETTIQUETTE DINNER on page 12.
surrealism. “It’s almost like a journal. If I make an image, representing my feelings at the time, then that is kind of like my own journal. I can go back and look at it and remember how I felt during that time,” said Jan. A number of Jan’s pieces feature naturalistic photographs with models digitally imposed to create somewhat of a story in the portrait. According to Jan, her creative process for these works of art involve finding beautiful locations and then making things up in the setting to bring the locations’ beauty to life. Many guests throughout the evening were quick to favor one of Jan’s larger pieces, which depicts numerous photos of Jan’s photoshopped into a photograph of her apartment. Carlos Martin, a regular exhibit attendee, liked its three-dimensional aspect. “It just kind of pops
out at you,” said Martin. Many of Jan’s works showcased in the exhibit are self-portraits; however, a select few feature models. Valerie Kiser, Jan’s friend and model, can be seen in two of the photographs in the Flight of Fancy exhibit. “The best part about working with Chala is that she already has the vision in her head, and so for me working as her model was amazing,” said Kiser. Along with friends and family in attendance, the show also gathered a large art following. Rob Lettieri, a local photographer, was pleased with the turn out of the opening. “This is the first show for an artist of this magnitude in Scranton,” said Lettieri. For information on Chala Jan visit: http://www.chalajan.com/ Contact the writers: jmeyers@m.marywood.edu eyeager@m.marywood.edu
DIY inter W y Snow ers d l o h le Cand Autumn Granza Editor-in-Chief ‘Tis the season. With the holidays approaching I have been searching Pinterest for the perfect holiday crafts or gift ideas. One craft that caught my eye were snowy winter candle holders made out of jars. This is a very simple craft, and I loved the outcome. What you will need:
-Modge Podge -a paint brush -a jar -Epsom salt or glitter -newspaper -tape (optional) Step 1: Lay down newspaper because it can get quite messy. Take the jar and either tape a design, which I chose to do, or leave it plain. Step 2: Take the Modge Podge and paint the entire jar. If you choose to do a design, Modge
Podge over the tape, too. Step 3: Once the jar is completely covered in Modge Podge, take the Epsom salt or glitter (I chose to use glitter) and sprinkle it all over the jar. Step 4: Before the Modge Podge is too dry, remove the tape. Step 5: Place a candle inside and admire your masterpiece. For more information visit: http:// www.addicted2decorating.com/diyturn-jars-into-snowy-winter-candleholders.html
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
November 2014
Kindred brings poetry to ETTIQUETTE DINNER campus with workshop and Continued from page 11 reading The Etiquette Dinner has been occurring for nearly ten years, and Gustitus believes that the number of sign-ups this year, which as of press time was approximately 45 students, is just as good as last year, and she hopes that it continues to do well. “I believe that [this dinner]
helps students become wellversed in behaviors that will assist them in eventually gaining a career,” said Gustitus. “I’m really excited,” said McCabe. “Not only for the food, but for the experience as well.” Contact the writer: eyeager@m.marywood.edu
PORTFOLIO
Continued from page 12
Photo Credit/ Juliette Meyers
Sally Rosen Kindred signs her book for Marywood student, Brynna Tebbe, following her poetry reading at the Comerford Theatre in the Center for Natural and Health Sciences. Juliette Meyers A&E Editor Erin Yeager Staff Writer On Tuesday Nov. 11, Sally Rosen Kindred, came to Marywood University for a writing workshop and reading followed by a book signing. Kindred, a poet from Columbia, Md., authored the “Book of Asters,” and “No Eden.” in addition to her two chapbooks, “Garnet Lanterns,” and “Darling Hands, Darling Tongue.” The English Department sponsored the events. The writing workshop took place in the afternoon. Amanda Thornley, a junior English major, attended the workshop. Thornley said that students at the workshop worked with Kindred to create persona poems. “[Persona] poems take the persona of another character besides yourself, so basically you are narrating from someone else’s voice,” said Thornley. The reading and book signing followed that evening at 7:00 p.m. in the Comerford Theatre, located in the Center for Natural and Health Sciences. Kindred’s books, “Book of Asters,” and “Darling Hands, Dar-
ling Tongue” were available for purchase. “The most recent book [“Book of Asters”] I wanted to write about family life. […] The organizing principle of the book was the Aster family of flowers, considering how my childhood was full of them,” said Kindred. Kindred received her undergraduate degree from Duke University and her MFA in writing from the University of Maryland. She later received her Master’s degree in literature at Duquesne University. However, she credits her interest in poetry to creative writing camps she attended during her middle school and high school years. “I think that’s when I started, sort of, seeing a poem in everything. I think that’s really when it became more part of my daily life and my identity,” said Kindred. For more information on Kindred and her works, visit her website at http://www.sallyrosenkindred.com Contact the writers: jmeyers@m.marywood.edu eyeager@m.marywood.edu
The student is then able to create a portfolio and submit it to Rudzinksi at any time. The portfolio is sent to a chairperson who will accept, deny, or ask for more information. The chairperson would have to give a detailed reason for denying portfolio. A student will know whether the portfolio was accepted after about two weeks. The cost to create a portfolio is 1/5 the cost of a total course. The portfolio process does not apply to transfer students, and the credit cannot be used in place of the sixty minimum credits for graduation. The student has to complete sixty credits at Marywood. “I usually receive ten to fifteen portfolios each year,” said Rudzinksi. Many students at Marywood are considering making a portfolio in order to earn credit. Lacey Stanton, freshman nu-
trition major, said she believes the process is a good idea. “The portfolio process is a good idea because it makes the process toward graduation faster,” said Stanton. The students will be able to receive credit for a course that they are interested in by showing their knowledge and experience in the field. A portfolio should include many documents and works that have been done during the student’s career at Marywood thus far. The student will also have to write an essay describing why he or she should earn credit. It seems like a lot of work, but the process seems appealing to some students. “I would definitely consider creating a portfolio,” said Stanton. Contact the writer: kawuestling@m.marywood. edu.
Monday Nov. 17, Polish Cuisine, 9:00 p.m. in the Fireplace Lounge, Nazareth Student Center Wednesday Nov. 19, Sushi Rolling, 8:00 p.m. in the Latour room, Nazareth Student Center Friday Nov. 21, Tour of Italy, 9:00 p.m. in the Fireplace Lounge Nov. 23: 21st annual Santa Parade in Downtown Scranton on Mifflin Ave and Franklin Ave., at 9:00 a.m. Nov. 28 through Jan.7: Holiday Light Show at Nay Aug Park, lights run each night from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Dec. 3: Christmas Tree Lighting, at 4:00 p.m. in the Rotunda Dec. 5: First Friday, begins at 6:00 p.m. in Downtown Scranton Dec. 6: S.A.C.: NYC Trip, Sign-ups online
VETERANS
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There are currently more than 100 active military, veterans and family members attending Marywood. “Each [veteran] holds a special place in my heart,” said Williams. “Even if they’ve only been here for a semester or if they’ve been here with me now over the last three years, they are not just Marywood students, they are not just veterans. They are
Nov. 17 through Nov. 21: International Week, international food and games throughout the week.
friends, and we are a family. So every year, the ceremony becomes that much more special because I know how special it is to them.” Contact the writer: agranza@m.marywood.edu
Dec. 7: S.A.C.: Christmas Liturgy and Holiday Dinner, liturgy held in Marian Chapel, at 4:30 p.m., and dinner following. Dec. 8: S.A.C. Flapjack Fest 8:00 p.m. to Midnight, in Nazareth Cafeteria
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
November 2014
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Movie Review: “Foxcatcher” offers enthralling and deeper look at tragic events Vincent Schultz Managing Editor “Foxcatcher,” is a film that largely builds on the theme of failure. We see the potential and the drive to surpass expectations. We see raw talent and promise to achieve greatness. But we also see that no matter how hard one may work, someone will always be second best. Released Nov. 14, 2014, “Foxcatcher” is directed by Bennett Miller and stars Steve Carell, Channing Tatum, and Mark Ruffalo. Based on true events, the film follows Olympic Gold Medalist Mark Schultz (Tatum) as he is invited by the wealthy John du Pont (Carell) to travel to his
private estate to prepare for the 1988 Olympics. Joining team Foxcatcher, Schultz sees the chance to step up and remove himself from the heavy shadow of his Gold Medalist brother, Dave (Ruffalo). However, as Mark trains under du Pont’s aggressive guidance; the three men would come to know conflict, struggle and ultimately, tragedy. First and foremost, it’s important to note the brilliant performances throughout “Foxcatcher.” Both Channing Tatum and Mark Ruffalo have strong performances with Tatum in particular giving a glimpse of potential greatness as the troubled Olympic wrestler. However, it’s of course Steve
Carrel as the rich and controlling du Pont who steals the show. Seeing an actor with a comedyintensive background devote himself to such a dark role is exciting. Carell’s performance is a welcomed change of pace that shows just how much he delved into the character. Through superb direction, Miller perhaps offers his strongest film to date. Offering audiences layers of material that transcend what we see on screen. The relationships that exists between the characters in the film is at times difficult to watch but all too relatable. As Mark continually does his best to achieve greatness and gain the approval of others, he often finds himself
falling short. Each character struggles with their own vices which only grow stronger with the films progression. Miller ambitiously plays on themes that not only mirror relationships between characters, but relationships in society as well. On one end of the spectrum, we have the wealthy and manipulative du Pont, representing the upper class. On the other, we have the hardworking, physical Mark and Dave Schultz who emulate the struggles of the lower classes. It’s a bold contrast given the
films subject matter surrounding Olympic Wrestling. But the look beyond the scope of the film to show the roles we play in American culture is carried across seamlessly. “Foxcatcher” is a film intertwined between promise and tragedy. With a strong story and an Oscar-worthy performance from Carell, Miller’s film is a must see. I’m giving “Foxcatcher” 5/5 kernels. Contact the writer: vmschultz@m.marywood.edu
Senior musical theatre majors present capstone performances Juliette Meyers A&E Editor Marywood University’s Music, Theatre, and Dance Department held its senior theater capstone performances on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1. The showcase was called “Double Play,” as it featured two of the program’s graduating seniors, Anthony Munar and Cara Nardone. This year’s capstone was unique in that each senior performed a one-person show. Both Munar and Nardone were responsible for composing their own presentations and performing in them. “Since we are both musical theatre majors, and we are both singers, it really was a glorified recital. It was us singing, dancing, and acting,” said Nardone. Nardone’s show was called, “If You Give a Girl a Stage,” which
was inspired by the children’s book, “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie.” The performance featured several songs and two monologues. One from Shakespeare’s “Merchant of Venice” and the other from the play, “Scuba Lessons.” Nardone loosely based her performance on the plot of the story, “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie,” in which she describes how one thing leads to another for the mouse. “If you give a girl…me, a stage-I’m just going to want more and more and more,” said Nardone. She added that in some ways, her performance was like her love letter to theatre at Marywood. Munar’s performance, on the other hand, was less of a compilation and more of a story from start to finish. Munar called his show “Progress.” He described it as a story of how music helped shape him
throughout his life. “It basically just says how music helped me get out all these emotions, and how it helped me make great progress [with things like] body movements and how I talk to people,” said Munar. The shows were held in the Sette LaVerghetta Center for Performing Arts Black Box Theatre, which is a smaller more intimate space, compared to the larger auditorium. Nardone said she was happy with the turn out, describing the first night as nearly sold out and the second as being half full. For more on the Marywood Music, Theatre, and Dance department visit their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ MarywoodUniversityMTD Contact the writer: jmeyers@m.marywood.edu.
Photo Credit/Katlynn Whitaker
Cara Nardone received flowers from Anthony Munar following her show, “If You Give a Girl a Stage” at the Double Play Senior Capstone.
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SPORTS
November 2014
Commuter basketball team begins first season Katie Hart Assistant Sports Editor Marywood's Commuter Committee recently kicked off its first Commuter Basketball season with a 3-on-3 tournament at the Center for Athletics and Wellness. The Committee put the team together at the beginning of the school year to engage commuters who enjoy playing basketball for fun. At the first practice, the team decided that they wanted to have weekly practices and have a day of pick-up games that anyone could join. Daniel Piette, a junior aviation management major, who organizes the team practices said, “We just wanted to start a basketball
team just to get commuters back on campus and to have fun.” The team splits up into groups that play each other in these tournaments. They try to get together as many people as possible to get more games played. Both men and women are included. At the tournaments, they play several games with a lot of energy, excitement, and fun, according to Piette. Dylan Svetovich, a freshman health services administration major, said he enjoys playing on the committee’s team. “I played basketball in high school and I wanted to continue with it, so I thought I’d give it a shot,” said Svetovich. Even though it is called the Commuter Basketball Team, it is
Wheelchair Basketball games during the Third Annual Abilites Tip-Off
open to students who live on campus as well. Piette said the participation is great and would like to make it a yearly thing. “I’d like to keep it going through the rest of this semester, spring semester, and hopefully next year," said Piette. Contact the writer: kahart@m.marywood.edu
Photo Credit/Alex Weidner The commuter basketball team is entering their inaugural season. The team gathers around to discuss upcoming practice schedule.
Basketball Preview 2014-2015 Season What do these players expect this upcoming season?
Women’s Basketball Preview
November 15 Opening Weekend
Men’s
Basketball
Preview
Men’s Basketball Team wins Marywood Pacers vs Penn State Wilkes Barre 71-58 Leading Scorer Alex Barr 12 points
Photo Credit/Alex Weidner Marywood University sponsered the Third Annual Abilites Tip Off, on Nov. 16th at the Bryon Center, at the University of Scranton.
Photo Courtesy/Erica Nealon
Catie Nealon Year: Freshman Major: Undeclared Hometown: Clarks Summit, Pa. “We have a talented group this year. We have a few potentially tough opponets, like Gwynedd Mercy, but we’ve been working really hard this off season. We want a CSAC Championship this year.”
Photo Credit/Alex Weidner With a multitude of sponsors from Univerisites to Health Programs, the event was established to support individuals with spinal cord injuries.
2013-2014 Season Results: 16-10 Overall Record Lost in the First Round of the CSAC Playoff to Gwynedd Mercy
Women’s Basketball Team lose Marywood Pacers vs Elizabethtown College 62-56 Leading Scorer Alexa Gerchman 15 points
Photo Credit/Alex Weidner
Alex Barr Year: Freshman Major:Pre-Physician’s Assistant Hometown: Voorhees, N.J. “The team expects big things, we just want to be successful and work really hard. We definitely think we’re a playoff team this year, we’re just gonna keep trying to reach our goal every day.”
2013-2014 Season Results: 10-15 Overall Record Did not reach the postseason
SPORTS
November 2014
Page 15
Doughman races to Marywood’s second fastest 5K time Vincent Schultz Managing Editor Emma Doughman, a junior exercise science major with a minor in nutrition, has reached many milestones as a runner. Most recently, Doughman ran the second-fastest 5K time in Marywood University Women’s Cross Country history. At the James Earley Invitational at Westfield State College in Westfield, Mass., the cross country team managed to place 14th out of 44 teams with Doughman leading the Pacers. In 2014 alone, Doughman has accrued a multitude of titles. Through the Colonial States Athletic Conference (CSAC), she has earned Individual Champion, First Team All-CSAC, and runner of the week honors for Sept. 7, Sept. 21, Sept. 28, Oct. 12, and
Photo Credit/Alex Weidner Emma Doughman, a junior, exercise sceience major, trains all year round for upcoming events by running around campus.
Oct. 19. Doughman has been running since seventh grade and credits her family for getting her involved in the competitive sport. “My mom is a big runner and
my aunt is a big runner, they both got me into [running],” said Doughman. “…My mom runs the Steamtown marathon every year so I run with her.” In high school, Doughman was
a promising runner. In 2012 she was named best track athlete and the Cross Country MVP in 2011 at Conrad Weiser High School, in Robesonia, Pa. Because of her accomplishments, Doughman was recruited by assistant women’s cross country coach, Kevin Borelli, who was the head coach until the 2013-14 season. Since attending Marywood University, Doughman has placed in every single invitational she has participated in. “It’s different from high school, not as many races but a lot more intense, harder workouts and much bigger levels of competition. The races are bigger and have a different atmosphere, but I like it
a lot,” she said. With nationals approaching in the coming weeks, Doughman hopes to be ready to compete at a higher level. Current head coach for the women’s cross country, Scott Hutchinson, said he believes Doughman is both mentally and physically prepared for the upcoming event. “She’s having a great year. She’s performing at a championship caliber. She’s strong mentally and she’s a smart racer,” said Hutchinson. Contact the writer: vmschultz@m.marywood.edu
Scott Slater, Lacrosse Anne Zukowski Asst. Web Editor Scott Slater, a junior accounting major, will be taking the field for his third year playing lacrosse at Marywood. He has played the sport for nine years. From Cicero, New York, Slater plays attackman, the chief goal-scoring position. Last season, Slater with 39 goals led the team. On a school day, Slater usually wakes up around six in the morning, eats a granola bar or a light breakfast, showers, then goes to his morning class. During pre-season, Slater lifts weights at least three times a week, does agil-
ity workouts at least twice a said Slater is a hardworking, week, and attends two cap- good kid. tain’s practices every week. “Slater’s one of those quiet leaders who is all business,” Slater is an unselfish said Perrelle, who was the player who is constantly team’s assistant coach last looking out for his team’s year. success rather than his In his free time, he likes to own. hang out with friends or relax. -Tyler Perrelle, Slater is known by his teamHead Coach of Men’s Lacrosse mates and coaches for being a big Syracuse and Patriots fan. “We’re going for a Confer- His inspiration is New Engence Championship,” Slater land Patriots Quarterback said confidently. Last season Tom Brady. the men’s lacrosse team was Perrelle also said Slater is runner up for CSAC (Colonial an unselfish player who is States Athletic Conference) constantly looking out for his Championship to Cabrini. He team’s success rather than his is also looking to better his own. last year’s 39-goal record. Tyler Perrelle, first-year Contactthewriter: head coach of Men’s Lacrosse, amzukowski@m.marywood.edu
Photo Credit/Alex Weidner Scott Slater, a junior, accounting major, is taking a break during conditioning practice during the off season. During the practice the members of the team are running spirits and laps around the gym.
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SPORTS
November 2014
Mark Van Nort Year: Sophomore Major: Psychology Hometown: Dalton
Evan Felser Sports Editor When did you start playing tennis? I started playing when I was about five years old, but I lost in a tournament and quit. I started playing again when I was a freshman in high school. What is your favorite tennis tournament to watch? The U.S. Open is my favorite tournament to watch. It’s only a few hours from here and it is very exciting. It is the only major that plays a tie break in the fifth set, which makes long matches much more intense. What is your favorite part about playing tennis? I love the intensity, especially in college tennis where it is a team sport. Everyone is very competitive and there is a lot of team spirit. Who is your favorite tennis player? Stan Warwrinka,
because
MU HOME GAMES Until Dec. 13th
he is a big, strong guy and he always fights to be better. He also has a one-handed backhand like myself and it’s one of the best in the game. You don’t see too many one-handers anymore. What music do you listen to before the game? I listen to music that makes my blood flow and gets my adrenaline pumping. Usually metal or hard rock. For example, Breaking Benjamin, Five Finger Death Punch, and Disturbed. Do you have any prematch rituals? I always keep my headphones in during the warmup and don’t talk to anyone. I want to make sure I’m focused and ready to play. What has been the highlight of your career? When I transferred from West Virginia University, I hadn’t played tennis in two years and when I started at Marywood I fought my way
Contact the writer: efelser@m.marywood.edu
What are some of your strengths? I am definitely a power player. I am not the most consistent, but I make up for that by being aggressive and being a good net player. What has tennis taught you about life? If something isn’t working for you in tennis or otherwise, then you have to change it. If you aren’t where you want to be in life, then you have to change something; it’s the same in tennis. What do you plan on doing after Marywood? I plan on going to graduate school and getting my Ph.D. in Psychology and hopefully become a forensic psychologist.
Photo Credit/Brandon Melo
Nov.
22nd
Nov.
25th
30th
Men’s and Women’s Swimming and Diving vs University of Scranton 1 p.m.
Women’s Basketball vs Penn State Lehigh Valley 6 p.m.
Men’s Basketball vs Penn State Worthington 3 p.m.
Dec.
3rd
up the lineup and ended up playing one doubles and six singles. My partner and I won a doubles match 8-1 against a Division 2 school and we ended up winning the conference that year and going to nationals.
Women’s Basketball vs Rosemont College 6 p.m. Men’s Basketball vs Baptist Bible College 8 p.m.
Jan.
3rd Women’s Basketball Hosting the Marywood Holiday Classic Tournament 2 p.m.
Nov.
November Jan.
22nd 4th Women’s Basketball Hosting the Marywood Holiday Classic Tournament 4 p.m.