VOLUME 81 ISSUE 05
9.25.2026
CONTENTS
COVER DESIGN BY HALEY HSU
LETTERS Letter from the Editor
P. 3
NEWS Three Active Construction Sites on Campus, More to Come in Future Years Department of Justice Files Complaint Against Colleges Offering In-State Tuition to Undocumented Students How TriMet Service Cuts Affect Student Mobility SPORTS PSU Fall Sports 101 ARTS & CULTURE
P. 4 P. 5 P. 14
Guide to PSU: Who’s Who? How to PSU: 6 Resource Centers to Check Out What Your Tuition Pays For Nymphs, Cities and Innovators: How PSU Buildings Got Their Name Do’s and Dont’s of Dorm Living
P. 8 P. 9 P. 10 P. 16-17 P. 18
OPINION Dear Freshman, this is Gen Ed Campus Bathroom Rankings Callaway Column: Fantasizing of Vulnerability
P. 11 P. 15 P. 18
P. 12-13
STAFF EDITORIAL EDITOR IN CHIEF Olivia Hendry Young MANAGING EDITOR Grace Peterson NEWS EDITOR Will Lowe ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR Hayden Neumann OPINION EDITOR Daniela Hernandez SPORTS EDITOR Vacant MULTIMEDIA EDITOR Vacant SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR Liam Schmitt
COPY CHIEF Jude Callaway ONLINE EDITOR Karli Schwartz DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Caleb Dougherty CONTRIBUTORS Drew Dattilo Lilly Santangelo-St. Martin PRODUCTION & DESIGN CREATIVE DIRECTOR Haley Hsu CONTRIBUTORS Naue Pagtakhan Arielle Chhunkeo
ADVISING & ACCOUNTING COORDINATOR OF STUDENT MEDIA Reaz Mahmood SALP ACCOUNTANT Anne Le STUDENT MEDIA TECH ADVISOR Rae Fickle STUDENT MEDIA TECH DEVELOPER Kaylee Hynes WEB DESIGNER Vacant
To contact Portland State Vanguard, email editor@psuvanguard.com. MISSION STATEMENT PSU Vanguard’s mission is to serve the Portland State community with timely, accurate, comprehensive and critical content while upholding high journalistic standards. In the process, we aim to enrich our staff with quality, hands on journalism education and a number of skills highly valued in today’s job market. ABOUT Vanguard , established in 1946, is published weekly as an independent student newspaper governed by the PSU Student Media Board. Views and editorial content expressed herein are those of the staff, contributors and readers and do not necessarily represent the PSU student body, faculty, staff or administration. Find us online at psuvanguard.com.
To incoming Letter freshman, from seniors in their the EIC! last term and everyone in between...
I
t’s my privilege to welcome you back, one?) and is proud to call Oregon or to, Portland State University.As home, I feel grateful for the opportuOregon’s premier urban institu- nity to serve in this editorial position tion, we are uniquely positioned on this that directly impacts the area I call campus to grow both as academics and home. I deeply care about uplifting locitizens of a downtown environment. cal voices and informing my commuMy hope is that your time at PSU will nity, especially one that is as passionate challenge, enrich and fulfill you, ulti- and close-knit as Portland. I’ve seen mately launching you into a lifetime of firsthand how coverage from a student learning and serving your community. newspaper can create real change on a I can’t wait to see how this next year campus, and provide a voice to those fits into that plan. who feel unheard.Through journalism, I am honored to hold the position of we can become more knowledgeable PSU Vanguard’s Editor in Chief for the about real issues affecting our commu2026/27 academic year. PSU Vanguard nity members and become more conis a student operated award winning nected in an increasingly fragmented newsroom, directly serving you— the world.Through journalism, we can betPortland State community.We have pro- ter care for ourselves and the network vided ethical, trustworthy content for around us. the past 80 years, and I am excited to During my tenure, PSU Vanguard will continue this pursuit during my tenure. continue serving this campus commuThis will be my second year on the Park nity with the utmost responsibility and Blocks, and my second year in an edi- care. I deeply believe in journalism’s mistorial position at Vanguard, previously sion, and I look forward to the opportuholding the position of Managing Editor. nities I will have to exercise it this year. As someone who grew up in the Have a great first week of classes, and Portland metro area (go Tigers, any- go Viks!
PSU Vanguard • SEPTEMBER 25, 2026 • psuvanguard.com
Olivia Hendry Young LETTERS
3
Three Active Construction Moreto Come Sites on Campus, in Future Years
A
s students return for the academic year, they will find multiple construction and renovation projects happening on campus. According to Jason Franklin, the Associate Vice President for Planning, Construction and Real Estate, this isn’t out of the norm for campus. “We typically have at least one major construction project going on campus, which is currently the new housing building,” Franklin said. “It is somewhat unusual to have two significant projects in adjacent buildings … going on at the same time.” Departments are currently moving out of the University Center Building (UCB), located between SW Harrison Street and 5th Avenue. PSU bought the building in 1999, but they do not own the land lease. To cut overhead costs, PSU decided to relinquish the building. All departments inside are moving to nearby buildings, including the Department of Communications, Judaic Studies, the Center for Student Health and Counseling (SHAC) and more. SHAC will be moving to the second floor of Fariborz Maseeh Hall (FMH). “This project is just beginning construction and will be complete by December 2027,” said Franklin.“This move is required as PSU moves out of UCB to save operating costs and to consolidate to a smaller physical footprint to reflect our current enrollment.” Construction will soon begin on the fourth floor of the Richard & Maurine Neuberger Center, after Speech and Hearing Sciences moves out of UCB. In late October or early November, more construction is expected to begin on campus. The Indigenous Traditional Ecological & Cultural Knowledge (ITECK) building will be completely renovated along with new landscaping projects. “[It depends] on when we receive a building permit from the City of Portland, and it is scheduled to be complete in May of 2027,” Franklin said.“This project will completely renovate the existing ITECK building located on the Oak Savanna and also add about 500 new square feet.” The Park Blocks are also undergoing major change, with the demolition of Blackstone Residence Hall having started in July and Montgomery Residence Hall set to be demolished in September. The new housing building will be complete by August 2028, with students expected to move in by Fall. University Housing & Residence Life Executive Director Ashley Wendler is very excited about the new residence hall, claiming it’s PSU’s first purpose-built residence hall for first-year students. “It provides the amenities we’ve long envisioned to help students build community and find their place on campus,” Wendler said. The amenities are expected to include large community spaces for shared cooking, lounging and studying.Additionally, there will be a music practice room, an outdoor fire table, a courtyard patio, a game area, private study booths and a centrally located service desk. SMSU is the third location actively undergoing construction. Most maintenance, according to University Housing and Residence Life (UHRL), takes place during the summer to cause less disruption to residents during the academic year. SMSU, however, is in a unique position. Its construction is listed as critical maintenance, as much of the maintenance is overdue.The renovations include upgrading elevators, replacing the roof and replacing the heating and cooling units on the roof.
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NEWS
Current co nstruct io n includes SMSU mainte nanc e and B lackSHAC re lo cation, sto ne de molit io n
Grace Peterson
ALL PHOTOS BY HALEY HSU According to the building’s website, the mezzanine elevator still relied on mechanical gear installed in the 1960s. The renovations needed to happen immediately.The project is being supported by an $8.1 million bond approved by the Student Fee Committee and the Associated Students of Portland State University (ASPSU). Renovations began in July 2025 and are scheduled to be completed in December 2027. Students can still access and use the building, but are encouraged to be mindful of the construction. Updates about the renovations can be found on the Smith Site. UHRL is involved with the new housing project and the dining changes at SMSU. According to Wendler, Victor’s Dining Hall will relocate from Ondine to SMSU. “This new facility will allow all students to grab a meal while engaging with the various centers, resources, and support services already located in the building,” Wendler said. “Bringing a dining hall to SMSU — which will serve over 900 meals daily — will create a vibrant hub at the center of campus.” Victor’s Dining Hall primarily serves first-year students living in Ondine and Broadway. With the new residential building opening in the Park Blocks, Franklin claims it makes sense to move the dining hall. Additionally, it brings more foot traffic to the building, where other resource centers and communitydriven programs are housed. Construction for the dining project is slated to begin in the summer of 2027, with doors expected to open in Fall 2028. The construction will open up new space in Ondine, where the dining hall has sat for roughly 30 years.
“We currently have no plans for the empty space in Ondine, but will be working with Housing and other units on campus to determine the best use,” said Franklin. Construction on campus is not expected to hinder students’ day-to-day lives, beyond the closure of Hall Street between FMH and Shattuck Hall for the renovations in FMH. Franklin warns there may be occasional construction noise near the sites. “For everyone’s safety, we ask students, faculty and staff to follow the directions on the construction signage and to not cut through active construction sites,” Franklin said. PSU recently finished construction on the new Schnitzer School of Art + Art History + Design building, located on SW Broadway. According to Franklin, it was a long road to get there. “Active design took about two years, though we first started visioning for the project back in 2014. Permits took about nine months and construction about 18 months,” said Franklin. “This is our first mass timber building, which is a much more sustainable construction method than concrete or steel.And I think the building is beautiful and will be a great place for students to hang out and create art.” Like Franklin,Wendler was very pleased with the new art building.The project was directly adjacent to the Broadway Residence Hall, with westfacing dorms having a front-row seat to the construction process.The building will be open for classes and student use in Fall 2026. “The new building will bring great vibrancy to the south end of campus, benefiting those living on campus,” Wendler said. “Additionally, the project created an improved path for residents walking toward the Park Blocks, and Broadway now feels more connected to campus.”
PSU Vanguard • SEPTEMBER 25, 2026 • psuvanguard.com
Department of Justice FILES COMPLAINT
S E G E L L O C T S AGAIN
Offering In-State Tuition
to Undocumented
Students
GRACE PETERSON
O
n Aug. 27, 2026, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) shared a press release announcing that it will be suing four more states for “preferential treatment” to illegal residents. The DOJ claims that four states, including Oregon, Washington, Arizona and New Mexico, have state laws that violate federal law. These state laws allow undocumented students to receive financial assistance and in-state tuition when pursuing secondary education, as long as they have proof of residency. The DOJ claims that this preferential treatment is disallowed and discriminatory to U.S. citizens who do not receive the same scholarships or reduced tuition rates.Additionally, they claim this rewards undocumented students with benefits that U.S. citizens are not eligible for and incentivizes illegal immigration, which conflicts with federal law. The filed complaint prevents these four states from enforcing their laws and regulations, which require universities and colleges to provide in-state tuition rates for all undocumented students who maintain in-state residency. Before the Aug. 27 complaints, the DOJ already had 17 lawsuits challenging in-state tuition for undocumented students.With Oregon, Washington, Arizona and New Mexico receiving complaints, it raises the total to 21 lawsuits. Five similar lawsuits in Nebraska, Illinois, Oklahoma, Texas and Kentucky resulted in favor of the DOJ, declaring reduced tuition rates for undocumented students to be unconstitutional analogous laws. A court invalidated the statute, and the previous state laws were struck down. According to Inside Higher Ed, over 120,000 undocumented students have already lost their access to in-state tuition because of these lawsuits. 12 lawsuits challenging the constitutionality of similar tuition laws are currently pending, potentially affecting students in California, Colorado, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, Minnesota, New York, New Jersey,Vermont,Virginia, Kansas and Rhode Island. In a statement, the Associate Attorney General, Stanley E. Woodward, Jr., emphasized that the federal government wouldn’t allow states to ignore federal law any longer. “Over 30 years ago, Congress made clear that States cannot put illegal aliens before our Nation’s own citizens,” Woodward wrote. “We have now sued 21 states who we allege were thwarting Congress’s clear prohibition on placing aliens over citizens. Our efforts will not cease until President Trump’s promise is fulfilled: illegal aliens will not receive benefits denied to American citizens.” These lawsuits come at a time of severe distress in the country. In July 2026, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
PSU Vanguard • SEPTEMBER 25, 2026 • psuvanguard.com
Multip le law suits will impact 21 states total, including Oregon
rescinded its 2022 regulations, eliminating the “duration of status” loophole that allowed foreign individuals to remain in the U.S. long-term without regular government oversight. This rule change impacted media representatives, foreign students and exchange visitors, creating a fixed period of admission for nonimmigrant visa holders. In June of the same year, the Secure America Act was signed into law and provided $70 billion in funding to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Other immigration laws have been introduced to the 119th Congress as well, including the Subterranean Border Defense Act, the Deporting Fraudsters Act of 2026 and the Stop Illegal Entry Act of 2025. Oregon lawmakers are not staying silent. Following the press release, Oregon Representative Ricki Ruiz posted a statement on Instagram. “Oregon has a right to determine how we invest in our students and our communities. We should not allow Washington, D.C. to dictate who gets access to opportunity based on immigration status,” Ruiz said. “We will defend Oregon’s students. We will defend Oregon’s values.” Jenny Hansson, the Communications Director for the Oregon Attorney General’s Office and Oregon Department of Justice spokesperson, said that Oregon’s in-state tuition for undocumented students was passed in the 2013 Regular Session. It was voted on by Democrats and Republicans. “Oregon’s Tuition Equity Program passed on a bipartisan vote and has been a success for Oregon’s universities and students for well over a decade,” Hansson said. “… On background, Congressman Cliff Bentz voted for this when he was in the legislature, as did lots of other Republicans.” Due to Plyler v. Doe, all students — regardless of immigration status — are guaranteed a K-12 education in America.This decision did not extend to higher education, but it has commonly left it up to the states to decide. In Oregon, there are still eligibility requirements for undocumented students pursuing higher education.This includes attending an in-state high school for at least three years, receiving a high school diploma or equivalent in Oregon and showing intent to become a lawful permanent resident. In addition to receiving reduced tuition costs, undocumented students may receive the Oregon Opportunity Grant and the Oregon Promise Grant. Many undocumented students rely on the reduced tuition rates to attend university. At Portland State University, the 2026-2027 es-
timated tuition and fees for Oregon residents are roughly $13,600. For nonresidents, it rises to almost $36,250, about 2.5 times the in-state tuition rate. If the federal DOJ succeeds, this could force undocumented students out of higher education. The Center for American Progress claims that undocumented students face systemic barriers to higher education beyond just tuition costs. These obstacles, such as unsupportive environments, language barriers, deportation anxiety and inadequate mentoring, prevent undocumented students from attending college. If these students do not receive financial aid, scholarships and in-state tuition, they are unlikely to receive higher education, forcing them out of universities. The federal lawsuit would impact Portland State’s community. “For fall 2025, we had 86 students who received Oregon resident tuition via Tuition Equity. So far, for fall 2026, we have 59 students receiving Tuition Equity,” said Katy Swordfisk, Media Relations Manager for PSU. In 1987, Oregon became the first sanctuary state, meaning local and state government employees cannot use public resources to assist federal immigration authorities in enforcing federal immigration laws without a signed judicial order. In 2016, PSU became a sanctuary campus, with Portland becoming a sanctuary city the next year. In 2026, PSU remains a Sanctuary Campus and a Minority Serving Institution. PSU holds that it will take all legal measures to protect its students. This means that Campus Public Safety does not enforce federal immigration law, the university protects the confidentiality of student records and the university will not consent to immigration enforcement on school grounds. PSU has a resource center specifically designed to support immigrant or undocumented students.The DREAMer Resource Center is committed to reducing obstacles for undocumented students, believing that immigration status should not be a barrier to academic success. They offer hubs for state and national scholarships, community events, ICE Family Preparedness Plans and more. If students are unsure how the federal lawsuit will impact their education, they can contact the center via email, dreamers@pdx.edu, or by phone, 1+(800)-547-8887. Oregon’s DOJ emphasizes that it will fight to keep Oregon’s laws and students protected from the federal lawsuits. “The [in-state tuition] program represents Oregon’s values and priorities, and we look forward to defending it against attacks from the federal administration’s hateful agenda,” wrote Hansson.
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U S U S P ORIENT ATION GUIDE
? Guide to PSU:
? o h W s ' o h W
Your Guide to Important Individuals a n d G r o u p s a t P SU daniela hernandez
CO URTES Y OF PO RTL AN
D STATE UN IVE RSI TY
President Ann Cudd
Since 2023, Ann E. Cudd has served as Portland State University’s President. She received her education at the University of Pittsburgh, earning a master’s in Economics and a doctoral degree in Philosophy. Cudd has a distinguished resume, with faculty positions at the University of Pittsburgh, the University of Kansas, Boston University and Occidental College. Cudd’s responsibility is to represent the University and make sure daily operations at PSU run smoothly. That consists of working with the Board of Trustees to implement budgets, overseeing academic missions around campus and promoting the university for students who want to enter college.
Victor E. Viking
Meet your mascot, Victor E. Viking. His name arose in the 1960’s when PSU was transitioning from a 2-year to a 4-year university. Originally, PSU was named Vanport Extension Center when it opened in 1946. That year, students were participating in intercollegiate sports and needed a mascot. The Vanport student council voted unanimously to adopt “Vikings” as the mascot, a suggestion made by then-students Robert Tweedell and Dale Reeves.The Viking was chosen to represent determination and strength, a symbol of the Vanport community. You can see Victor E. Viking cheering on athletes, whether it is on the court or on the field.
Tess Conley
As coordinator of the PSU Smallwood Food Pantry, Tess Conley works to ensure PSU students have access to food. For the last four years, Conley has worked in food banks, dedicating her time to fighting food insecurity. Conley strives to help the community, usually by working in the pantry, providing meals or sharing tasty recipes for students to make. The food pantry is available to all students who are registered for one credit and pay student fees.The Oregon Food Bank and assistance from other community partners help to keep shelves stocked with nutritious food. The food pantry is a Student Fee Committee-funded resource that is included in students’ tuition. According to Conley, in an email to PSU Vanguard, “Students are encouraged to come as often as they would like and to take as
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ARTS & CULTURE
much as they can use.” Regardless of income level, all PSU students are welcome to the pantry, located in the basement of the Smith Memorial Student Union. Contact Info: pantry@pdx.edu
C O U RT ES Y O
Tim Stump/CPSO
As of the summer of 2026, PSU has a new Director of Campus Public Safety, Tim Stump. Stump has 33 years of experience in law enforcement, including 17 years that he dedicated to the community at the University of New Mexico. As leader of the Campus Public Safety Office (CPSO), his job is to ensure that the PSU community is a safe, respectful place where students can thrive. Offering 24/7 services, CPSO provides safety escorts, ride-alongs and help filing complaints and crime reports. Their office, located next to the Karl Miller Center, is also where they hold the Lost and Found. Contact Info: cpso@pdx.edu Emergency number: 503-725-5911 Non-emergency number: 503-725-4407
Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees is a 15-member board that governs PSU’s policies. Each member is appointed by the Governor of Oregon, and they are collectively responsible for the appointment and evaluation of the President. Other responsibilities include approving a university budget, creating mission plans for the university and establishing tuition and fee rates.Wally Van Valkenburg currently holds the chair of the Board of Trustees, with Mark Rosenbaum as Vice Chair.The five committees on the board include the Academic and Student Affairs Committee, the Executive and Governance Committee, the Special Committee on Campus Public Safety, and the Finance, Administration, and Audit Committee.The trustees are made up of PSU alumni, business executives, professors, and government officials, along with one student representative.The current Board members are Benjamin Berry, Dr. Robin R. Beavers, Marissa Mardigal, Sonya Moody-Jurado, Jon Owens, Judith A. Ramaley,Vicki Reitenauer, AJ Romero-Gemmell, Dr. Beth Tarasawa, Joshua Hutchinson, David Bikma and President Ann E. Cudd.
F PS U FA
PSUFA
The Portland State University Faculty Association (PSUFA) is one of the faculty unions at PSU, along with PSU’s chapter of the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) and the Graduate Employees Union (GEU). Its members consist of adjunct faculty and researchers who hold positions on campus. The union represents its members in collective bargaining, negotiating pay and seeking benefits for faculty members to provide a better working experience at PSU. Since 1979, PSUFA has taken action to secure improved working conditions and higher wages for its members. Jacob Tootalian, PSUFA’s Interim Co-Chair & Chair of Communications, emphasized in an email to PSU Vanguard that adjunct working conditions impact students’ learning conditions, making it vital to support adjunct faculty. PSUFA’s executive council, made up of adjunct members, includes Alli Schisler-Blizzard, Jacob Tootalian, Mychel Estevez, Erica Thomas, Tomas Zurita, Katie Van Heest, Sarah DeYoreo and Jessica Rutledge. Their offices are located in Room B134 in Fariborz Maseeh Hall. Contact Info: communication@psufa.org
Student Worker’s Union
The PSU Student Worker Union is the student-led union that unionized this year. Their goals are to support students who work on campus by advocating for higher wages, flexible work scheduling rules and other benefits through collective bargaining. They have spent the last year collecting signatures and petitioning for approval to form a union, which was later recognized by the Service Employees International Union Local 503 (SEIU 503), its parent union. They encourage student workers to join the student union and learn more about unions and collective bargaining. Their offices are located in Room B134 in Fariborz Maseeh Hall. Contact Info: studentunionpdx@gmail.com
PSU Vanguard • SEPTEMBER 25, 2026 • psuvanguard.com
HOW TO PSU:
ls G et sup port from prof ess io na d suc ce ed to he lp trans it io n into, an during th e school year
6 Resource Centers T o Check Out
LILLY SANTANGELO-ST. MARTIN AND GRACE PETERSON
D
COURTESY OF THE QUEER RESOURCE CENTER
ifferent students need different types of support throughout the school year. Portland State University has a range of resource centers built for unique student needs and circumstances. These resources can range from social support, financial literacy, funding and more. These resource centers are open year round, and are ready to help students succeed.
The Financial Wellness Center
Located: Fariborz Maseeh Hall, room 130 Phone: 503-725-3440 Website: www.pdx.edu/student-finance/financial-wellness-center The Financial Wellness Center (FWC) offers many services and resources for students to use while navigating financial decisions, including their financial aid. Students are able to meet with a Financial Wellness Coach virtually, over the phone or in-person. A Financial Wellness Coach offers support with understanding tuition and fees, basic scholarship questions, and how to fill in financial gaps.They can also assist with filling out the FAFSA. Students are able to go to the FWC website, use the booking portal to schedule an appointment that best fits their schedule. The FWC does more than just offer financial coaching — the website can help with late fees, registration holds and past due balances.They can help guide the student through these processes and push them in the right direction. Emailing, calling or scheduling an appointment with a Financial Wellness Coach are the best ways to contact support for these issues. On their website, the FWC emphasizes that their services are meant as educational tools for PSU students; they cannot offer legal and tax advice, nor will they provide tax services.
Women’s Resource Center
Located: Smith Memorial Student Union, room 439 Phone: 503-725-5672 Website: www.pdx.edu/womens-resource-center/ The Women’s Resource Center (WRC) offers opportunities for community engagement, feminist leadership education and generally supports students through an intersectional feminist lens. One of the ways the WRC gives support to students is by providing a variety of day-to-day tools and resources for students, for free. It has free feminine hygiene supplies like tampons, pads and menstrual cups and, in support of safe sex practices, they also offer free sexual health supplies such as lubricant, condoms, and dental dams. The WRC’s office space includes quiet places to study and work. Along with this, students have access to the center’s Feminist and Queer Library.This library offers free printing for students as a useful tool to promote academic success and reduce financial barriers. The WRC is known for hosting a variety of different events to promote community engagement, such as the “Performative Mascs and Evil Femmes Contest” held during the Spring 2026 term. For these events, they often partner with other resource centers on campus. For the
PSU Vanguard • SEPTEMBER 25, 2026 • psuvanguard.com
COURTESY OF THE RESOURCE CENTER FOR STUDENTS WITH CHILDREN
Spring 2026 term, they hosted and paid for a hike for any students interested at the Oregon Coast alongside PSU’s Outdoor Program and the Queer Resource Center. Events taking place during the Fall 2026 term can be found on their Instagram (@psu_wrc).
Queer Resource Center
Located: Smith Memorial Student Union, room 439 Phone: 503-725-5672 Website: www.pdx.edu/queer-resource-center/ The Queer Resource Center (QRC) shares spaces with the WRC. The QRC is designed as a place for students to lounge and socialize with other students while also accessing resources. Similar to the WRC, the QRC offers free printing, menstrual products and items for safe sex practices. The QRC has a Student Support Fund for queer and transgender students. This is a low barrier fund for LGBTQ+ students who are in need of financial support for basic needs. This fund can cover groceries, utilities, legal name updates and emergencies. However, due to high demand, there is often a hold on the fund for students who are in need of financial support.This fund is supported by community donations. Even for students who do not identify as queer or transgender, the QRC is still a social resource. It is a space to learn how to support queer community members, and create long lasting friendships.
Resource Center for Students with Children
Located: Smith Memorial Student Union, room 458 Phone: 503-725-9878 Website: www.pdx.edu/students-with-children/ The Resource Center for Students with Children (RCSC) was designed to reduce barriers and obstacles for parents pursuing education. The lounge space fosters a positive environment for parents and children, and allows for community connection and friendship. Like the WRC and QRC, it includes a printing station.Additionally, it has a lounge room with snacks, computer, children’s supplies, play area and a clothing closet. The RCSC has drop-in resources available at all times. The station includes lactation pumping, kids children’s activity kits, new baby starter packs, diapers, formula and feeding bottles. They also have a map of family- and lactation-friendly spaces. If a pregnant student needs pregnancy support, the RCSC provides individual consultations. These consultations offer guidance and assistance for expecting students, and connect them with additional resources. Consultations can be booked on their website. If students need any support with childcare, parenting, child development, personal and family issues, they are encouraged to reach out to the resource center.
Transfer and Returning Student Resource Center Located: Fariborz Maseeh Hall, room 342 Phone: 503-725-3822 Website: www.pdx.edu/transfer-center/
This resource center is for many types of PSU students, including new, transfer, prospective, and those taking dual credit courses. The Transfer and Returning Student Resource Center (TRSRC) often connects students with events, opportunities and other resource centers. With the goal of helping students smoothly transition to campus, they tailor their resources to the individual needs of the student. Whether the student is already on track to finishing their degree, taking a break from education or just starting their higher educational journey, they offer specialized guides and tools. The TRSRC offers a range of services, including academic and career advising with specific Transfer Advisors. Their goal is to help students prepare to enroll at PSU. The center also connects students with the Admissions Office.The Admissions Counselors keep students informed of dates, application information and admission events, so students never miss a deadline.
Disability Resource Center
Located: Smith Memorial Student Union, room 116 Phone: 503-725-4150 Website: www.pdx.edu/disability-resource-center/ The Disability Resource Center (DRC) prioritizes equity in higher education and remains committed to stopping all systems of marginalization and oppression. If a student needs accommodations to succeed in college, they are encouraged to reach out to the DRC.Accommodations can include alternative test taking, communication access, alternative formats and more.Alternative test taking accommodations can include short breaks during a quiz, a distraction reduced space, extended time and earplugs. Communication access accommodations could include closed captions,ASL interpreters and translators.Alternative format accommodations, specifically for reading, can have E-versions of books and text-to-speech programs. More accommodations are available, and many are posted on their website. To set up accommodations, students must meet with an Access Counselor and Consultant. They will be added to the system and send a summary of accommodations and next steps to PSU. From there, the DRC will send an emailed copy of the requested accommodations to the instructors.These emails do not give instructors private information about the student’s disability. Even if a student is not sure if they have a disability, the DRC encourages students to meet with an Access Counselor and Consultant. Even if the student does not reach eligibility, the DRC will direct them to other resources. There are more resources on campus for students to use, which can be found on the PSU website.Taking care of oneself financially and socially is key to having a successful academic career and balanced personal life. If a student is struggling, they are encouraged to find resources and community through some of these centers.
ARTS & CULTURE
9
$ $ $ $ $ $ What Your Tuition Pays For Make the most out of your tuition by utilizing PSU’s resources Olivia Hendry Young and Drew Dattilo
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ollege tuition is a heavy burden for most students, but it keeps universities running. Portland State University tuition mainly covers operating costs, such as classes, professors salaries and access to academic facilities. Outside of these items, PSU students have access to several services throughout the university.These resources are directly tied to their tuition payments and mandatory school fees, and are available to all tuition paying students— whether someone is taking a one credit class or a full course load.Through these services, students can get supplementary groceries, free mental health services and more.
The PSU Campus Recreation Center
Paid for by mandatory student fees, the PSU Campus Recreation Center, known casually as Campus Rec, is available to all students taking at least one credit. Campus Rec offers multiple facilities for students to maintain their physical health, including a six-lane lap pool, rock climbing wall, basketball courts, an indoor track and a weightlifting gym.
COURTESY OF SMALLWOOD FOOD PANTRY
The PSU Smallwood Food Pantry
The PSU Smallwood Food Pantry, located in room 48 in the Smith Memorial Student Union, provides free food for all students most days of the week. Working with the Oregon Food Bank and other business partners for donations, the Food Pantry offers a wide variety of vegetables, carbs, prepared meals, and more.Additionally, the Food Pantry also has options for students with dietary restrictions.To utilize the food pantry, students must bring their ID or have their PSU ID number on hand. Operating hours change term to term and students can visit the Pantry’s webpage for specific term hours.
COURTESY OF PSU CAMPUS RECREATION CENTER
The PSU Reuse Room
The PSU Reuse Room is a resource that allows students to take and donate school supplies, office items, books and kitchenware.This room supports continued sustainability efforts at PSU, as students are encouraged to extend a product’s lifetime by using the items donated. Students can find the Room in Cramer Hall in room 180. Those interested in volunteering, or have additional questions about the room, can contact sustainability@pdx.edu.
SHAC Services
Each term, students taking five credits or more are required to pay the Health Service fee as part of their tuition. The fee covers health, counseling and wellness promotion services at the Center for Student Health and Counseling (SHAC) to ensure that students maintain their health.The fee is separate from student health insurance. By paying the Health Service fee, several of SHAC’s mental health resources are available for students. For example, individual counseling sessions are available to students dealing with personal or academic stressors. SHAC also offers other counseling options, such as single session, group and drop-in. The Mind Spa is another resource for students and offers biofeedback and light therapy, massage chairs and meditation to help students relax. Students can visit the Mind Spa up to three times per term. Additionally, SHAC offers several wellness spaces, such as the Wellbeing Lounge, Peer Recovery Center and nap rooms.
The Career Clothing Closet
COURTESY OF PSU CAMPUS RECREATION CENTER
COURTESY OF BRANFORD PRICE MILLAR LIBRARY
Campus Rec also offers several events and classes throughout the school year. For students looking to take group fitness classes, Campus Rec’s Group X offers multiple fitness opportunities that fit any student’s class schedule and activity level— from beginner Vinyasa yoga, to High Intensity Interval Training, and everything in between. For those interested in honing their skills through a specific sport, Campus Rec offers intramural and drop-in sports, along with recreation clubs. In order to use Campus Rec’s facilities, students only need to bring their PSU ID and sign a one-time waiver.
Branford Price Millar Library
Virtual Computer Lab
By navigating to vlab.pdx.edu and entering in their Odin account username and password, PSU students can gain access to multiple softwares during their time on the Park Blocks. The Virtual Computer Lab (VLAB) allows students to use everything from geographical mapping programs, to audio editing tools, to data visualization softwares, all for free. Through VLAB, students can use softwares such as Microsoft Office and Project, SAS, and even Minecraft Education Edition.
A list of free campus wide resources would not be complete without the library. PSU’s library, named after the school’s second president, sits right in the middle of campus and offers six stories of books and archives, all free for students. The library has several research tools both online and in person, making researching for upcoming assignments a breeze. For those looking for extra help in their classes, the library also offers tutoring services and “Ask a Librarian,” where students can directly talk to a librarian about research questions, finding specific texts and more. For extra study support, or just a quiet place to do one’s homework, students can also utilize the various study rooms and spaces throughout the library.
The Career Clothing Closet helps students prepare for professional workplaces by providing career clothes at no cost. Students are allowed to take up to six items, and students can maintain their clothing by taking advantage of the Clothing Closet’s ironing and steaming services.They also accept donations, allowing PSU students to give their lightly used professional clothing to a peer in need. Students can find the Clothing Closet in the Karl Miller Center in room 410.
10
NEWS
PSU Vanguard • SEPTEMBER 25, 2026 • psuvanguard.com
$
Dear Freshman, this is GEN ED Providing a view on the GEN ED program that will improve your education
HALEY HSU
DANIELA HERNANDEZ
W
Dear Freshman, elcome to Portland State University! I applaud you all for deciding to pursue higher education. This leap of faith in yourself will be one of the most important decisions you will make in your life. Higher education is an investment not just in your career, but also in your personal life. A university can definitely help you earn a degree or get a better job; however, it is also a place where your knowledge expands. It will expose you to different ways of reasoning, and what it means to think. As a freshman, you will be required to take a class with your fellow newcomers. These classes are part of the General Education Program (Gen Ed). Almost all universities require you to take general education courses. The concept of Gen Ed arose in the late 19th century, and these classes were prominent in community colleges that taught occupational tools and compensatory education. Classes also offered community guidance while providing resources that connected students more closely to their careers. Higher education saw a boom after World War II, which was when Gen Ed programs were formally instituted. Colleges and universities incorporated these classes to prepare students for the higher education experience. PSU’s general education program was implemented in 1994. Currently, the Gen Ed program
is facing some changes with the elimination of the University Studies program. Amid all the changes, the goals of Gen Ed remain to provide students with the necessary skills to thrive in higher education. Some students do not recognize the benefits of Gen Ed, seeing it more as a challenge than a resource. Many students and professors critizie and question the value of Gen Ed, calling them useless or a waste of time. General education classes that cover sustainability, immigration, social justice, nature, health and happiness have been subject to criticism. Critiques from students usually stem from questions about how Gen Ed classes contribute to their majors. It’s the difficulty of tying business administration into learning about health, happiness and human rights. This is also seen in Education or Public Health majors, who may question how their social justice class will help their careers because they didn’t sign up for a social or criminal justice major. Ironically, Gen Ed classes are made to combat these ideologies. These closed-minded critiques set students up for failure and will cause them to get less out of their college experience. Do not make this mistake. Taking this approach isn’t going to help you. Gen Ed also emphasizes the importance of critical thinking. It’s a skill that enhances decisionmaking and problem-solving, both of which are
PSU Vanguard • SEPTEMBER 25, 2026 • psuvanguard.com
essential for every job, especially in higher education. Critical thinking is a magnifying glass that can help you find blind spots.Whether you’re constructing a business plan, engaging with patients, designing a prototype or teaching students, our biases and assumptions can leave holes in our thinking. Learning to think critically is often neglected because it forces us to deconstruct our thoughts, which can be uncomfortable and potentially change our view. Getting over discomfort is what makes a better thinker, leader and potential candidate for a job. Our society currently prioritizes a hustleand-bustle culture that praises getting your life together before you hit your 30s. This hyperfixation on grind and optimization is killing the reputation of higher education. Higher education has no space in hustle culture. Knowledge of historical and cultural context, along with skills like analytical and critical thinking, requires some extra time. Hustle and optimization culture, on the other hand, focuses solely on perfecting a skill that produces the most output. Let me remind you which application you filled out. You filled out a college application. You’re here for a college education, not a specialization program. Part of higher education is learning how different aspects of society impact different fields. As you enter your first year of Gen Ed, remember these classes are here to help you. One
of Gen Ed’s focuses is to connect you to school resources. PSU offers a multitude of resources that are included in your tuition. Funded by the student fees, resources aim to assist you in your academic and personal development. Many of those resources include the Recreation Center, the Learning Center, Student Health and Counseling, Student Legal Services and many other resource centers around campus. Professors also announce events that help students with different educational focuses, like resumes, interviews, headshots and networking workshops. Teaching students about opportunities PSU offers, such as on-campus jobs and internships, helps them get closer to their career and occupational goals. So no, Gen Ed is not a waste of your time. An in-depth lesson on immigration, social justice, and their impact on the economy isn’t a waste of your tuition money.The same goes for reading “A People’s History of the United States” by Howard Zinn and understanding how it can connect to the creativity of the film industry. Don’t let people’s perspectives on finishing college as soon as possible diminish the value of the knowledge college is providing you. As English biologist and anthropologist, Thomas Henry Huxley, said, “All knowledge is good. It is impossible to say any fragment of knowledge, however insignificant or remote from one’s ordinary pursuits, may not some day be turned to account.”
OPINION
11
1 0 01 0 0 PSU FALL SPORTS 101
HAYDEN NEUMANN
Editor’s Note: Since writing this piece, Hayden has accepted a position with Athletics and has moved into the Arts & Culture Editor role at PSU Vanguard to prevent any conflict of interest. This article was written prior to them stepping into their Athletics role.
T
he 2026 fall term is here, and Portland State University’s sports teams are gearing up for an exciting season. With free admission for current students with a valid student ID, everyone is encouraged to come cheer on their fellow Vikings. Here’s a quick-facts guide with everything you need to prepare for game day.
Football
Led by Head Coach Chris Fisk and General Manager Rashad Floyd, the Vikings football team is in the midst of a complete rebuild, with new fan experiences, teammates and uniforms. Fisk and Floyd are excited to reintroduce the team to Portland. Their season started Aug. 29 with a 31-24 loss to UC Davis, and will conclude with an away game on Nov. 21.Although their season has had a challenging start, the team are already showing improvements and are only looking to get better. All home games are at Hillsboro Stadium and can be watched on Rose City SportsNet and ESPN+. With the fall term starting on Sep. 28, 2026, the remaining home games are as follows:
DATE
TIME
OPPONENT
THEME
Oct. 10
1 p.m.
Utah Tech
Wear Black
Oct. 31
1 p.m.
Idaho
Halloween– Dress Up!
Nov. 13
7 p.m.
Southern Utah
Wear Black
On July 28, 2026, the team announced its five captains for 2026:
NAME
#
POSITION
CLASS
Terence Loville
3
Wide receiver
Senior
Jaxton Helmstetler
6
Linebacker
Senior
Tanner Beaman
10
Tight end
Junior
Brogan De’Asis
34
Defensive end
Senior
Brock Fleming
45
Long snapper
Sophomore
Soccer
While PSU’s soccer team started their season with a four-game losing streak, each game ended in a close score, with the Vikings fighting hard until the end.Their season started on Aug. 7 with a 3-0 loss to Oregon State, and their first win of the season came Sep. 6 against Western Oregon. All home games are free to attend at Hillsboro Stadium and can also be watched live on ESPN+. Their remaining home games are as follows:
DATE
TIME
OPPONENT
Oct. 15
1 p.m.
Weber State
Oct. 18
1 p.m.
Idaho State
Oct. 29
1 p.m.
Idaho
Nov. 1
1 p.m.
Eastern Washington
12
SPORTS
s ’ e t a t S d n a l t r A guide t o P oson sp or t s f all- s e a
The football team has13 seniors:
NAME
JERSEY #
POSITION
Jaylen Lench
0
Wide Receiver
Terence Loville
3
Wide Receiver
Jaxton Helmstetler
6
Linebacker
Tre Kramer-Taylor
24
Safety
Quincy Springs
27
Cornerback
Jonah Henry
33
Linebacker
Brogan De’Asis
34
Defensive end
Henry Amposta
39
Linebacker
James Minot
52
Offensive line
Caine Elroy
56
Linebacker
Semisi Latu
68
Offensive line
Kapeliele Hausa
69
Offensive line
Braylon Cornell
71
Offensive line
The soccer team is led by Head Coach Maureen Whitney and Assistant Coach Lauren Prott. They have 11 seniors:
NAME
JERSEY #
POSITION
Finley Crabtree
00
Goalkeeper
Kamaria Hughes
4
Defender
Alexis Boyer
5
Midfielder
Remee Davis
6
Midfielder
Yammile Picon
7
Forward
Josie DeLine
12
Defender
Kainani Jacang
13
Midfielder/Defender
Elle Frazier
14
Forward
Camilla Contreras Bran
17
Midfielder
Alexi Cataldi
25
Midfielder/Forward
Ocean Rideout (Fifth Year)
22
Forward
PSU Vanguard • SEPTEMBER 25, 2026 • psuvanguard.com
The volleyball team started their pre-season strong with a 3-1 exhibition victory over Seattle U, and have maintained strong performances throughout the start of their season. All home games are at the Viking Pavilion and can also be watched live on ESPN+. Their remaining home games are as follows:
DATE
TIME
OPPONENT
Sep. 24
7 p.m.
Utah Tech
Sep. 26
5 p.m.
Southern Utah
Oct. 8
7 p.m.
Montana
Oct. 10
7 p.m.
Montana State
Oct. 24
5 p.m.
Northern Colorado
Oct. 29
7 p.m.
Eastern Washington
Oct. 31
7 p.m.
Idaho
Nov. 12
7 p.m.
Idaho State
Nov. 14
5 p.m.
Weber State
The team is led by Head Coach Michael Seemann, who enters his 20th year at PSU, and Assistant Coaches Diana Villalpando and Elizabeth Field. They have four seniors:
Women’s Basketball
The women’s basketball team will be entering their second year under Head Coach Karlie Burris and Assistant Coach Hailey King, who will be joined by Assistant Coach Jodi Page this season. The team’s season doesn’t start until late October, which gives students a lot of time to build excitement for the upcoming season. All home games are at the Viking Pavilion and can also be watched live on ESPN+. Their home games are as follows:
DATE
TIME
OPPONENT
Oct. 27
7 p.m.
Warner Pacific
Nov. 2
7 p.m.
Pepperdine
Nov. 24
7 p.m.
Cal State Fullerton
Nov. 28
12 p.m.
UC Santa Barbara
Dec. 13
2 p.m.
Western Oregon
Dec. 15
7 p.m.
Willamette
Dec. 31
2 p.m.
Montana State
Jan. 2
2 p.m.
Montana
Jan. 7
7 p.m.
Utah Tech
Jan. 9
2 p.m.
Southern Utah
Jan. 25
7 p.m.
Northern Colorado
Feb. 11
7 p.m.
Weber State
Feb. 13
2 p.m.
Idaho State
Feb. 22
7 p.m.
Northern Arizona
NAME
JERSEY #
POSITION
Paige Stepaniuk
2
Libero/Defensive Specialist
Asya Akbulut
4
Setter
Jordyn Romano
6
Middle Blocker/Right Side
NAME
JERSEY #
POSITION
Ava Blascziek
23
Setter
Laynee Torres-Kahapea
3
Guard
Kirstine Munk
10
Forward
This season, the team made its farthest trip east since 2004, all the way out to Chicago to take on DePaul in a 3-1 loss on Sep. 2.
Cross Country
Although PSU’s cross-country team won’t have any home meets, students are still encouraged to cheer on the Vikings as they take on the new season. Their first meet was on Sep. 4 at the Lewis & Clark XC Opener in Estacada, OR, where the Vikings placed second in the women’s events with 30 points, and third in the men’s with 46. Their remaining season is as follows:
DATE
MEET
LOCATION
Sep. 11
Ash Creek Collegiate
Monmouth, OR
Sep. 26
Mike Johnson Classic
Monmouth, OR
Oct. 3
Charles Bowles Invitational
Salem, OR
Oct. 30
Big Sky Championships
Flagstaff, AR
The women’s basketball team has two seniors this season:
Men’s Basketball
Last season, the men’s basketball team had one of the best seasons they’ve seen in years, clinching the Big Sky regular season title. This year, the team returns with almost an entirely new roster and plans to fight their way back to champion status two years running. All home games are at the Viking Pavilion and can also be watched live on ESPN+. The game times are to be determined. Their home games are as follows:
DATE
OPPONENT
Nov. 3
Lewis & Clark College
Nov. 19
Northwest Indian College
Nov. 22
Cal State Fullerton
Dec. 3
Eastern Washington
Dec. 5
Idaho
Dec. 8
Evergreen
Dec. 12
George Fox
Jan. 14
Weber State
Jan. 16
Idaho State
Jan. 21
Northern Arizona
Feb. 4
Montana
Feb. 6
Montana State
Feb. 18
Southern Utah
Feb. 27
Northern Colorado
1 0
0
Volleyball
1
The Cross Country and Track & Field programs announced the hiring of new Head Coach Eugene Frazier on Aug. 20, 2026. He will lead the team alongside Assistant Coach Nick Merillana. The cross-country roster has three seniors: Track & Field’s season will start in January.
NAME
Addison Capozzi Shayda Zarrin Amir Ahmed
PSU Vanguard • SEPTEMBER 25, 2026 • psuvanguard.com
SPORTS
13
How TriMet Service Cuts Affect Student Mobility Getting to and from Campus with TriMet’s New Service Changes DREW DATTILO
I
n 2025, the Tri-County Metropolitan Transportation District of Oregon (TriMet) announced its plan to reduce service on multiple bus routes and Metropolitan Area Express (MAX) lines over the next several years. The proposed service changes, which include routes corresponding to Portland State University’s campus, address a $300 million annual budget deficit. Most service changes were set for an August 2026 launch. TriMet hosted several hearings throughout 2025 and 2026, and distributed a survey to gather rider feedback on proposed cuts.This was in an effort to reshape service changes to best suit the needs of riders. Based on ridership data and feedback,TriMet finalized its plan, resulting in the reduction of 34 lines beginning Aug. 23, 2026. Reliable public transportation is crucial for students who use it to commute to campus. Deficits in transit access could add stress and longer commute times to students’ already busy schedules.According to PSU Admissions, over 50% of students and staff use public transportation to get to and from campus.With these cuts, some students have to reexamine their options for getting to campus. As of Aug. 23, several lines and routes corresponding to the PSU campus have been reduced or merged. One of the reduced routes is the Green Line MAX, which originally ran from Clackamas Town Center to PSU.The Green Line was a direct route for students living in East and Southeast Portland to commute to and from campus.The Green Line now runs only from Clackamas Town Center to Gateway 99th Transit Center, eliminating its reach into downtown Portland completely. Students relying on the Green Line will now have to make one or more transfers to get to campus, likely to the Red or Blue Lines before taking the Orange Line, which stops at PSU. Otherwise, students will need to take bus routes adjacent to Green Line stations that reach downtown, such as the 14 and 20 bus lines, before transferring. For students who commute from Beaverton using the 58 bus line, the route has been replaced with the 19 bus line. The 19 bus line was also reduced in August. Rather than being completely eliminated, however, part of the 19 route is combined with the 4 bus line, meaning that the 19 will now be called the 4 once it passes south of SW Jefferson St. Moving forward, the 19 will continue west on SW Jefferson St, while the 4 will continue south into Milwaukie. For students commuting from Northeast Portland, the 8 will now begin and end at the University of Oregon Portland campus instead of NE Martin Luther King St. Students from Northeast Portland may also be impacted by the 17 bus line, which originally started from NE Dekum St. With the changes, the 17 covers most of the 70 bus line’s northeast stops before reaching downtown. Additionally, the 17 now begins at NE Sunderland and 33rd, meaning riders need to travel further east to 17 line stops or find another route altogether. Despite budget deficits prompting service reductions, TriMet offers several reduced passes to eligible citizens, such as youth or seniors. Additionally, students receiving a Pell Grant are automatically qualified for TriMet’s Reduced Fare Program. Members receive an Honored Citizen card, which grants 50% off single-use and day fares, as well as a $28 cap per month. Students without Pell Grants may be eligible by meeting other criteria, such as receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Oregon Health Plan (OHP) benefits, and can check their qualifications on TriMet’s webpage. Students can enroll on TriMet’s webpage or visit PSU’s Transportation and Parking Services Office. For students who do not qualify for an Honored Citizen card, PSU offers a term-long pass that allows students unlimited access to TriMet for $150 per term.
14
NEWS
SERVICE ALERT FROM TRIMET UPDATING RIDERS ON THE GREEN LINE’S REDUCTION.
MAX STATION AT PSU URBAN CENTER — GREEN LINE REMOVED FROM SIGNAGE.
ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF DREW DATTILO Navigating TriMet’s changes could be difficult for students, but other transportation options are at their disposal. Portland offers two micromobility services: Lime and Biketown, both of which feature throttle and pedal-powered e-scooters and e-bikes. Both services require an app to unlock the vehicles for use, and each is unique in its pricing and what it offers to riders. Lime features LimePass, where riders can purchase a set amount of minutes at a discounted price. Biketown features a program called Biketown for All, which allows any PSU student receiving a Pell Grant or holding a TriMet Honored Citizen card to access their bikes at reduced rates, though it does not include e-scooters. Biketown for All removes the unlock fee of $1 and reduces the per-minute usage rate from 35 cents to 5 cents. Biketown for All memberships last for one year and require a new application once the membership expires.
Additionally, Biketown for All gives its users a monthly credit of 10 dollars and includes participation in the Bike Angels program. Bike Angels allows users to receive ride credits when they end their rides at parking stations with a low number of bikes. Eligible students can enroll in Biketown for All on PSU’s Biketown page. PSU’s Bikehub is another resource students can turn to for transportation alternatives. The Bikehub features a program called VikeBike, which allows any student to rent a bike or ebike for $60 per term. Each bike comes with a set of lights, a helmet, a lock and a bike garage pass, so that students can safely park their bikes on campus. Students concerned about TriMet’s changes can visit the PSU Transportation and Parking Services Office for more information and route planning. Streetcar service is unaffected by TriMet’s cuts and remains free for students with a PSU ID card.
PSU Vanguard • SEPTEMBER 25, 2026 • psuvanguard.com
S U P M CA m o m o o r o h r t h a t b a b S G N I RANK
! 6 1
When it’so go, time t to you need here w w o n k When it’s time to go, you need to know where grace peterson
N
ot all bathrooms are created equal. As students return to campus, it’s important to learn where their classes are and what buildings they’ll be in. But it’s even more important to know where to handle their private business. As someone who struggles to go in a public bathroom unless absolutely necessary, I have opinions. If the gap between the wall and the stall door is too big, I can’t go. If there’s a loud echo, I can’t do it. Some bathrooms are unusable, and absolutely not worth it. Here, you will find a ranking of the most avoidable bathrooms on campus, and the few that I can actually get my bladder to work in.
arielle chhunkeo
6. Urban Center Building Second Floor Bathrooms
In last place, we have the Urban Center, also known as my bladder’s mortal nemesis. The two-stall bathrooms are tiny and hard to maneuver if you have a large backpack or mobility aid. I get claustrophobia every time I go there. The soap dispenser is rarely refilled and tends to be broken. To use, you need to go up a long flight of stairs and walk through two sets of doors. If I’m desperate enough to need to use these bathrooms, I’m definitely too desperate to hold it long enough to make it. The bathrooms are located in the middle of the building and everyone can see you go in there. It’s awkward, it’s bad and I recommend it to be used only in an emergency.
5. Cramer Hall Bathrooms
Cramer Hall’s bathrooms have bad ventilation, locking smells inside. Never leave a #2 in these bathrooms; everyone will know what you did for days after. Most of the bathrooms are located in inconvenient areas, so trying to use them before or after class isn’t easy. They also get pretty busy during peak class hours, so there is often a wait or a full restroom. Additionally, there are more men’s bathrooms than women’s bathrooms, with some floors not having women’s or gender neutral bathrooms at all.
4. Smith Memorial Student Union Basement Bathrooms
These bathrooms have great lighting and pretty tiles, but that’s where the goodness ends. There is often a weird smell lingering in the room and an echo. If you do anything in this bathroom, everyone and their mother can hear it. The worst part of these bathrooms is the fact that you need your PSU ID card to enter. If I’m desperate to go, I do not have time to reach into my wallet and grab my ID, I need that door to be OPEN. To top
PSU Vanguard • SEPTEMBER 25, 2026 • psuvanguard.com
it off, these bathrooms are not easy to get to, especially with the elevators undergoing repairs.
3. Ondine Resident Hall Basement Bathroom
I’ll be honest, the first time I went here, I thought a serial killer with a massive knife would be waiting at the end of the hall for me. Go through the long, creepy white hallway, and you’ll find an all-gender bathroom. It’s a bit hard to get to, with students needing to enter using the building’s SW Hall Street entrance or the Ondine elevators. Despite the fear-inducing Resident Evil hallway, it’s actually a really nice bathroom. It’s very private and secluded, and usually isn’t that busy. It’s decently sized, easy to move around in and very accessible for students with mobility aids. Just make sure not to hit Jack Torrance on your way out.
2. Karl Miller Center 4th Floor Bathroom
These bathrooms are conveniently located near the skybridge and tucked off into the corner. The lighting is really good, perfect for OOTDs. While it tends to get busy during school hours, it’s never outrageous. These bathrooms are super clean and well cared for. They might be hard to access for students needing mobility aids. Luckily, they are far out of the way enough that you can do your business in relative peace and without disturbance.
1. Fariborz Maseeh Hall First Floor Bathroom
It gets kind of busy during school hours, but it’s always clean. Super clean. Clean enough to lick the floors! (Please, don’t lick the bathroom floors.) It’s got great lighting and good-sized stalls. Being on the ground floor, it’s very accessible from the Park Blocks and other buildings. Outside of peak school hours, it’s usually very quiet and empty. The AC is always on and the lighting is very solid.
OPINION
15
Nymphs, Cities and Innovators: GRACE PETERSON
P
Ondine snack bar
AVE 1912 SW 6TH
A h i iv e r s it y un
April 1988
completion el Hall) nearing West Hall (Blum
H AVE 1705 SW 11T
ortland State University has undergone numerous name changes since its opening in 1946. It was established as the Vanport Extension Center, but also known as Vanport College. It was renamed in 1952 to the Portland State Extension Center, and again in 1955 as Portland State College. Finally, in 1969, the institution was renamed to Portland State University. Like the university itself, many of the buildings on campus have undergone name changes. All the names have as much history as the building and college itself, with long legacies and impactful stories.
s g n i d l i u B U s S e P m w Ho Their Na nation of sthe pla e sake x e Got l a i c ’s n a m st or
October 5, 1976
BLUMEL . C H P E S JO ALL RESIDENCE H rn e Entrance to Ondin
Ondine is best known for its dorms, parking structure, classrooms and dining hall. Originally called the Viking Residence Hall, the dorms opened in 1966. In the 1970s, living in the dorms cost $140 a month, including meals, which was seen as a higher cost compared to other housing options. It originally had co-educational housing, but in 1971 it became a womenonly residence. It was renamed to Ondine, referencing the feminine water nymphs and matching the mythological naming convention with campus.
1136 SW MON TGOMERY ST
Apar tment buildin g
16
on current site of
Epler Hall
AU R IN E R IC H A R D & M ER T NEUBERGER CEN
most building had one of the Opened in 1967, this rket Ma the as n ow kn been name changes. It has &T AT r, ular Wireless Cente Center Building, Cing fice Of de sca Building, Boise Ca Building, Cellular One ing. In Portland Center Build the y, iall Building and, init urine Ma and d har Ric r to hono 2018, it was renamed ive tat sen Senator and Repre Neuberger, Oregon n ego Or the in rked for years respectfully. They wo n sio ten Ex t or np lish the Va Legislature to estab was l bil a , 55 19 In . ge colle Center as a four-year greeing the college as a de lish ab est , law o int d passe granting institution.
July 1962
1600 SW 4TH AVE
ONDINE RESIDENCE HALL
Januar y 18, 1979
lls on the Weste the residence ha ing garage. It Blumel is one of ies tall with a park or st ne ni d ng di an campus, st 1988, and designe es from 1986 to as ph g, o in ild tw in Bu ilt ns was bu g Saint Hele , the older, existin all H nd t ou es ar W p d ra lle w to as originally ca w ll ha e Th e. e at ap St hence the L-sh former Portland 2009 to honor el lived um Bl el. but renamed in um Bl on ent, Joseph Carlt d State, University presid y hats at Portlan an m re wo d an 07 20 essor, to of Pr 28 t, 19 en m fro ics departm om on Ec e th of d emic affairs Vice serving as Hea e students, Acad at du ra e rg de un ident. He was th Dean of ulty and PSU Pres fac . of 86 n 19 ea D to t, 74 en Presid t, from 19 t serving presiden es in ng s, lo ol ’s ho ity sc l rs na ive un professio established four ol of As president, he Public Affairs, Scho d an n ba Ur of ge lle the d Co an e g gineerin cluding th ts, College of En Ar g in ce. rm an rfo rm Pe d rfo Fine an d Human Pe hool of Health an Sc d ve ol ss di w no
1025 SW MIL L ST
ST E P H E N E . RESIDENCE HA E P L E R LL
The six-floor re sidential building was constructed in 2003, re placing the Birming ham Building Residence Hall that occupied the same site. Epler was going to be called the New Birmingham Building following its completion, bu t was instead named after the un iversity’s founder. Ste phen Epler (1909-1997) move d to the Kaiser Co rporation war-time city,Vanp ort, Oregon, in Jan uary of 1946. By March, the State Board of Higher Education gave him approval to create the Vanp ort Extension Center, later know n as PSU). He carri ed Vanport Dr. Dittmer looking Extension Center at Science II Co until 1955, overseein nstruction g the 1948 Vanport destructio n and reinstallation into downtown Portland. With out him, Portland State never would have starte d.
NEWS
October 17, 1969
PSU Vanguard • SEPTEMBER 25, 2026 • psuvanguard.com
Building 1 (PSB)
Construction
PETER W. STOTT CENTER
February 1980
615 SW HAR RISON ST
The Stott, like many buildings on this list, went through numerous name changes. It was built in 1966, with two gymnasiums, a pool and weight training facilities. The Stott was called the Physical Education Building originally, and later called the Health & Physical Education Building. Following the 1997 major renovations, it was renamed to honor Peter W. Stott, who gifted a $1 million challenge grant to PSU. Stott was a Portland State alumnus who founded Market Transport, Inc., while in school. Stott used his $90 savings, a $200 draw against a lift insurance policy and a loan from a professor to purchase his first transport truck. He sold the company in 2006, and grew the operation to employ 2,500 workers and gain $359 million in revenue.The building was again renovated in 2018, expanding into the Viking Pavillion. Stott often attends Vikings games.
Health & PE bu
Construction of HPE buildin g
September 1,1966
November 17, 19
The Karl Miller Center was built in three phases, the first part built in the 1970s, second part in the 1980s, and was finally finished in 2018. The first phase was on the western side, and named the Professional Schools Building I. The second part was added to the east, and named Professional Schools Building II. The first phase was built for the Graduate School of Education, and the second for the School of Business Administration. It was heavily remodeled in the 2010s, expanding the area with the massive glass atrium. With this remodel, came a new name. Rick and Erika Miller made a $9 million gift to fund the recent renovation. Miller, a 1991 PSU business alum, requested that the complex be named for his grandfather, Karl. Karl Miller was an entrepreneur, firefighter and World War II veteran.The Graduate School of Education moved to the Fourth Avenue Building; the School of Business has stayed at the Karl Miller Center.
ll (now FMH)
930 SW HALL ST
FARIBORZ MAS E
Classes in park block s outside Neuberge r Ha
1855 SW BRO ADWAY
VERNIER CENTER SCIENCE
Studying in atrium
PSU Vanguard • SEPTEMBER 25, 2026 • psuvanguard.com
April 26,1979
FMANN HALL
F GEORGE C. HO
AVE 1833 SW 11TH
EH HALL
Fariborz Maseeh Ha ll (FMH) is home to the Financial Wellness Center, Ca se Study Coffee Ro asters, Financial Aid Office and more. It’s gone through many name change including Classro s, om Building Sout h, South Park Ha Neuberger Hall, 72 ll, 4 Harrison and, finall y, Fariborz Maseeh Hall. It was built in two sections, comp leted in 1961 and 1969. Following re novations and cons truction from 2018 through 2019, the building was rename d after Dr. Maseeh Maseeh was a gene . rous PSU donor an d alu mnus, graduating with a BS in Structu ral Engineering and MS in Mathematics Maseeh is a first-ge . neration immigran t, who went on to receive his doctora te of science from the Massachusetts Institute of Techno logy in the 1990s. Maseeh created th Massiah Foundatio e n, making significant contributions and impacts in educati on, arts, literature , science and healt h.
July 2, 1974
The buildin g is named af ter Christin and David V e ernier, foun ders of Ver Software . D nier avid Vernie r was a hig school phy hsics teacher , and Christ Vernier serv ine ed on the PSU Board Trustees fro of m 2013-202 1.They becam major supp e orters at P SU, ing scholars hip program establishs for social work stud ents and fi rst-genera STEM stud tion ents. The ce nter was b in 1967, firs uilt t known as the Portlan State Colle d ge’s Science Building an later as Scie d nce Buildin g 1. In 2020 Verniers ple , the dged $4.5 m illion towar renovating ds the buildin g. When it opened in fa rell 2024, the name change to the Vern d ier Science Center.
pool
66
KARL MILLER CENTER
ilding, swimming
known as Harrison s spent two years on Street. It The auditorium wa the end of Harris at n tio ca lo its , its name was Hall, due to 96, and in 1998 19 in ilt as bu lly na was origi ann. Hoffmann w eorge C. Hoffm G r ce no ien ho Sc to l d cia change e head of So sor and longtim hired a history profes faculty members st fir e th of e on as w n Hoffman had at PSU. He n Center. While io ns te Ex t or np ral PSU commufor the Va ents and the gene ud st on , he ct pa im a huge tion name. In 1951 es on in the institu ion liv y ns ac te Ex leg s t hi or ty, np ni ging it from Va an ch r fo ty le ul sib was respon hen general fac ate University, w St d m lan rt fro Po ed to Center al. He retir d his name propos te op ad sly ou im unan ar. died the same ye PSU in 1989, and
DING
UIL ORT B
of origins m the as o w fr t e r o its nam nport.Vanp rved s t VANP e g g Va and se nt. buildin City of 1942, shaped ed after the in L pme t r e o h ff T develo tland. , nam ing e y g d it in il s s r u u e b r o iv the un ted as a ship wartime h st city in Po d in t e c ne s g u e r e r t p g cons ’s lar ter, o ond la nation was the sec tension Cen cal commue h t as lo Ex , it to the nport yed by height At its edecessor,Va and training were destro nter n pr ion Ce ollege ucatio PSU’s ffer ed ity and the c port Extens Portland o o t 6 n Va ec d as 194 948, th y Flood. The ter rename cy, origins 1 In . y la a nit D lega nd, morial Portla rs the the Me downtown uilding hono b to moved iversity. The itution. n st U in e e t h a St of t n io t a e and cr
VE TH A 5 W S 1810
Professional Scho ol
ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF PORTLAND STATE UNIVERSITY ARCHIVES DIGITAL GALLERY
NEWS
17
D DD D D DOS AND DON’TS g n i v i L m r o of D
t out of s o m e h t e k a m o t How r ms yo ur t ime in th e d o
OL IV IA HE NDRY YO UNG A ND GR ACE PETERS ON
Fantasizing of Vulnerability JUDE CALLAWAY
D
azed reported in October 2025 that men’s dating profiles were asking for a woman who is “slightly autistic,” or who has “a touch of the tism.” The qualifier is the same one Gen Z uses about boyfriends, pointed in the other direction. Autistic sex educator Milly Evans puts it plainly: these men either don’t know what autism is, or they want someone they perceive as more vulnerable. As Dazed writer Angel Martinez aptly recognizes, some of these men could be autistic themselves, searching for a partner like them. But those men aren’t going to ask for a partner that’s only slightly like them. Nobody on their profiles is going to ask for a girl who is only slightly a reader or only slightly enjoys the outdoors. While people are allowed preferences, setting a maximum for them implies a plan for control and a limit to tolerance. This occurs in the same conflation previously discussed in part three, where the desirable version is not the condition, but rather a partner with a specific set of interests, conforming to the allistic (non-autistic) male gaze. Carina, 27 and autistic, told Dazed what the fantasy actually wants is “a woman with youthful interests and colourful outfits, who will take him at his word when he tells her he’s a good guy.” He wants the product of these traits, shopping for credulity in a demographic where it has already cost a great deal. A 2022 study surveyed 225 women in the French autistic community. Of those, 88.4% reported at least one form of sexual assault, and for 75% of the victims, reporting led to no supportive action The authors note that sexual violence affects roughly 30% of women in the general population, and that autistic women are affected at two to three times that rate. The fantasy of credulity is aimed at a population where sexual violence is already nearuniversal, and where reporting mostly goes nowhere. It’s predatory. Romanticization and fetishization each take part of a person. Romanticization keeps what photographs well; fetishization keeps what doesn’t resist.
DO’S:
Go to
UHRL events: Dorm reside nts are exclusively is always in the roo able to attend VikNights, com m. Or your snacks get eaten. munity bonding events put Or your roomon by mate is the messiest person the University Housing and to ever exist. These small disa Resident Life (UHRL). In greeprevious ments can build a lot of res years, these events have tak entment and tension, and can en students to see “Hamilton be easily ”, visit a avoided. In the first few day pumpkin patch at Sauvie Isla s, sit down with your roomm nd and watch a Trailblazer ate and basketball create a roommate contrac game, among other activit t. The contract acts as a com ies. Ask your Resident Ass munity istant (RA) guideline and can help wit when VikNights are being hos h general understanding, com ted this year, and what the municathemes tion and accountability. With will be. Along with VikNights your roommate contract, , your RA’s will most likely be sure be hold- to include sections on frie ing events for both your floo nds, cleanliness, quiet hours, r and your building.These eve slee ping arr nts angements and sharing pre are a great opportunity to bon ferences. It’s important to d with your neighbors, and be as a chance in depth as possible, with to connect with other res room for flexibility — you idents living in the dormit can always ory. Floor agree to amend or waive and building specific events certain bylines in the future. will be communicated by you Make sure it’s something you and you r RA. Keep your space clean r roommate can both follow : You r side consisof the ten roo tly with fair expectations, as m is your side to live in! This me to prevent further argument ans it’s your responsibility s or to deco- debates. If your roommate rate and maintain it. Don’t is consistently not following let the mess pile up, be res the conpectful to tract, go to your RA and your new roommate and kee present the signed contrac p it clean. Make sure to thr t. ow out Bring toiletries: old food, clean the shared The most underrated item spaces and limit the clutter. s to pack, and If you the most needed.After unp ’re having a tough time keeping acking and unloading all you your space tidy, there’s a few r possystems sessions, you’re going to be you can implement to help tired, craving a shower or things run smoother. For exa needing mple, you to use the bathroom. Make can try a nightly 5-minute sure your toiletries are pac declutter before bed; throw ked in an out trash, accessible place where you put clothes in the hamper can quickly grab them; no one and clear your desk. If tha wants t to doe dig sn’t for their face wash after a lon work, try the 20/10 metho d: 20 minutes of cleaning, foll g day of moving. Be prepared owed by and bring the essential toil a 10 minute break, repeat etries, including shampoo, ing until the mess is manag toothpaste, ed. Every body wash and toilet paper. small bit helps to prevent a Don’t forget to bring other larger clean up. In communal essentials, spaces, like a bathmat, toilet brush, firs like bathrooms and kitchen t aid kit, plunger and other , make sure to split chores cleaning wit sup h plie you s.To split the cost, make sur r roommate. Manage the tras e to discuss with your roo h daily and regularly clean mdrains and mate before moving in, and floors in order to preven decide who’s bringing what. t pile ups, attracting bugs This will or creating also be helpful to preven a stench. Set clear cleanlin t overspending and a surplu ess expectations with roo s — no one m or suite needs two plungers taking mates, and reach out to you up valuable bathroom space. r RA if you need help. Sign a reasonable room
mate contract: Imagine moving into your new dorm, and your roommate’s partner
DONT’S:
and chairs. dorms come prefurnished, with dressers, beds, desks should You ts. cabine and stove , fridge a Suites will always include and lower ess topmattr hours are from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. Be considerate a and can ge garba a like ure, furnit to make friends always bring volume in shared areas and dorms.The worst way ul of the space. Most dorms s remember per, but it’s important to be mindf alway will one every — is by disrespecting quiet hours . Additionally, you’re going to be can’t have fun are small, without a lot of room who was loud before finals.This doesn’t mean you s, studying, working and enjoyclasse .The spaces are a busy person, attending or hang out in common areas during quiet hours spend less time in your dorm will You nd. Portla levels low. RA’s ing downtown available 24/7, but make sure to keep your noise or carpets, as you will hate to ensure than you think. Avoid bringing rugs usually walk on each floor twice during quiet hours love them, candles are might you making noise, cleaning them. And as much as residents are following the rule. If they catch you Don’t tempt fate — risk. fire tial poten t you to the banned in all dorms as a they can file a report. Other residents can also repor ate the building beevacu to have they if mad get rager at 10 p.m. everyone will on-call RA as well. Play it safe and avoid hosting a e candle. Additionally, don’t cause you couldn’t resist bringing a Yanke Steal food from your roommate: Just idifier, are bulky and dehum r or creates unnec- some devices, like an air purifie do it.They will hate you forever. It’s plain rude, and . relationship will take up too much space essary anger. No PopTart is worth destroying your get locked out! Residents get roommate Lose your key: Do not your with with your roommate. Always make a plan year, so don’t blow it on the first contract) and one free lock out for the whole about shared food (preferably in your roommate will be billed to your student food that has day. After your first lock out, $10 politely ask before taking something. Never touch be very embarrassing, and can It t. emen If you’re hungry, account for every replac a sticky note with the roommate’s name on it. get the temporary key. If to shame of walk the do lunch and din- you’ll have to go to Victor’s Dining Hall in Ondine for breakfast, will have to replace the lock and Smith Memorial a student loses their key, UHRL ner. Or, check out the Smallwood Food Pantry in to foot the bill. To avoid unnecesyour roommate keys, and the student will have Student Union for free snacks and groceries. If key and ID card on you at all room talk to them sary headaches, keep your keeps stealing your food, it’s important that you e check to make sure you doubl , dorm your leave you ues, report times. Before RA on-call. and establish firm boundaries. If the stealing contin have it with you. If you get locked out, contact the it to the RA. too much furniture: Most Portland State
Disrespect quiet hours: For most dorms, quiet your
Bring
18
OPINION AND ARTS & CULTURE
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