February Chronicle '25

Black History Month Written by Martin Santomin

Black History Month originated in 1926 as Negro History Week, created by historian Carter G. Woodson to highlight African American achievements. It was timed to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. During the Civil Rights Movement, the week expanded, and in 1976, President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month in February. Canada followed in 1995, and the UK adopted it in 1987 (celebrated in October). Today, it Carter G. Woodson, American historian, author, journalist, and founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (1875-1950).

honours Black history, culture, and contributions while addressing ongoing struggles for racial justice.

Black history month is an important time to recognize the contributions and achievements of Black individuals that are often overlooked. Like, did you know that the person who invented traffic lights was black?? Everyone would be driving like a maniac. Or did you know that Pacemaker Control Units were also invented by black people?? Or what about super soakers? Where do you think those are from? Yeah, that’s what I thought. We wouldn’t have so much fun in the summer without them. Black History Month also seeks to educate individuals on black history, which is often marginalized and/or excluded from the mainstream media. Finally, Black History Month is about unity and reflection. It encourages our society to reflect on the past, acknowledge injustices, and work toward a more inclusive future.

Frederick Douglass, American social reformer, abolitionist, orator, writer, statesman, and leader of the movement for African American civil rights in the 19th century (1818-1895).

Banquet Outfit Inspo

By Renee Hall

One of the most exciting nights on campus (well, off campus, you know what I mean) is coming up fast.

March 1st is our annual Burman Banquet, an excuse for us broke college students to avoid homework, assignments and studying to get all dressed up! If you are short of ideas on what to wear, look no further. I got you.

The theme: Starry Night. So, I was thinking of navy blue, black, and gold, much like the painting by Vincent van Gogh. You don’t have to dress according to the theme, of course; these are just mere suggestions.

Harana

On February 9th, The Filipino Cultural Club put together a romantic event titled Harana. This

eventful evening was hosted in the hideout, and the venue was decorated with delicate lighting and elaborate table designs. Hosted by HM and Jayden, the event put both the beauty and talent of Filipino culture on full display. Throughout the evening, guests were serenaded and served delectable plates. Guests had ample food options to choose from, and club members took on the role of servers to ensure guests were taken care of. There was a wide range of performances, which included singing (obviously), a band, a saxophone, and a viola. The entertainment continued with some crowd participation, and the game “word association” was a hit. If you ask around, you may be able to find video proof of Brandon and Kyle belting an Adele song. The event concluded with some good old karaoke, and people left feeling refreshed and rejuvenated for their midterms.

Written by Teresa Bruce

WISE

January 2025

The Speakers:

Monday: Elijah O’Sullivan Amaya Tuesday: Kyrianna Reimer & Jake Choi Wednesday: Melissa Duarte Penna Thursday: Darry Davis & Maranatha Odong Friday: Dania Pandala Saturday: Emmanuel Olivier-Jacques

Introducing...

Written by Emma Mowat

The Newly Elected 2025-2026 BUSA Team

Get to know our new Student Association for the 2025-2026 school year!

I asked them, “what does serving your peers mean to you?”

Here’s what they had to say...

President “Hi everyone! For me, serving my peers means putting other’s interests above my own, valuing everyone and taking action toward positive change. Philippians 2:3,4 says: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves, not looking to your interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”

Leadership should embody a servant-hearted approach where people are lifted up, heard, and empowered to be the change.”

Elena Quiyono Kolokolova “If I were asked, ‘What does serving my peers look like to me?’ I would say it’s all about the three main values that I believe make up leaders, and that is listening, advocating, and following through. Listening means genuinely hearing the voices, concerns, and ideas of my peers to understand their needs and ultimately just to hear them out and be that listening ear. Advocating is about standing up for those voices, ensuring that they are represented and valued in every step and decision, and most importantly, following through means turning our words into action as that truly speaks louder— being reliable, accountable, and making sure the realistic promises I make and what BUSA makes lead to real results that positively impact Burman as a whole.”

Executive VP

Joshua Martin

Communications VP “I believe the Lord has called me to serve humanity. Jesus reminds us in Mark 12 of the law “Love your neighbour as yourself”. In this, serving my peers means being the change, being the support, being the love and the community that I love to see or want to see among us as Burman students.”

Financial VP “Serving my peers means trying my best in helping others whenever I can.”

Ben Manzanares-lanza

Social VP

Lidia Cofles Gualtera

“Serving my peers means leading with humility, listening with intention, and creating spaces where everyone feels valued and included.

It’s about putting others first, turning ideas into action, and fostering a community that uplifts and supports each other. For me, service isn’t just about events. It’s also about building connections, making a difference, and reflecting the love of Christ through action.”

“Serving begins with putting others before yourself. Like every other student, I attend school to gain a better education and move forward in life. I understand the struggles of school, and I want to help make Burman University a place that elevates the post-secondary experience. I love Burman and want to share that love and the incredible experiences I’ve had here with others!”

Prince Caro

Student Life VP

Kyle Bacalso

Student Spotlight featuring Emma Duchesne, interviewed by Renee Hall

Please could you state your full government name for the records of public Burman knowledge?

Emma Lucie (emphasis on the “e”) Duchesne.

tech/hairdresser. Eighteen, well, here I am.

What was a total “freshie” move that you pulled when you got to Burman?

Oh… cringe. Well, besides What is your major, and what coming here for a friend, year are you in? uhm… I didn’t socialize, and Pre-professional Religious I stayed friends with the RA Studies, 2nd Year. squad. Shows how much I left my room, which was Why did you choose Burnever. I literally did not leave man? my room; the only thing I Number 1: I got bad high did freshman year was avoid school grades. Number 2: My people. Oh, wait, I thought as dad came here. Number 3: I a freshman I was invincible, so did not have a passport, so I worked 20 hours a week on not much of a choice there. top of school. LOL. Number 4: Came here for a friend, but uhm… pfft, anySo you said you were an RS way. So what’s the next ques- Major: what’s it like for a tion? female?

This, as question six, is wild. I When you were little, what would say that it is hard; I do did you want to be? have it easier than most due Oh my gosh, it changed a lot. to having three other girls in When I was six, it was a pastor my year compared to other because my dad is a pastor. years where there weren’t any.

At fifteen, I wanted to be a I do have to be more mindforensic scientist; I wanted an ful about what I say around “intellectual” job. But then I other people because, in went to get my blood drawn most conferences, it’s harder and noticed it was not my for women to be hired than calling. At sixteen, I wanted to men. In most conferences in be an author (let’s be for real Canada, it is harder for womhere: what am I going to do en to be hired in the smaller, with that?). Seventeen, nail rural communities, so when it

comes to being hired, I have to think about a lot that factors into that. I have to think of my digital footprint and what I say or do around campus because for a guy it would be a little easier as there is a shortage of pastors. I’m just a girl; it’s rough.

What acquired skill would you like to achieve one day somewhat?

I would like to be more charismatic. Uhh.. I want to be able to relate and empathize with people more. Cause as I said, freshman year, I hid in my room. But I’m happy to say that I am getting better at it.

Writer’s note: (She really is, guys, I can attest to this statement.)

If the dorm’s fire alarm had to go off, what is the first thing you would want to save while running out? (It’s not standard procedure, but we all want to save something).

My stuffed shark, Lewis. You know what: it’s lightweight, and it means a lot to me.

Mightily important to me.

What was your first job?

McDonald’s crew member at

sixteen. I worked there and worked my way up to team leader from sixteen to eighteen. Then quit three days before I came to Burman. Got to Burman, worked at Lacombe’s McDonald’s for another eight months. It was one of the most stressful things I’ve done. There are targets to hit, and if you don’t hit them, you are shouted at. I like to say that my normal is everybody else’s slow… so… yeah…

and do things.

What is the worst gift you have ever received?

Stares at the interviewer in “gagged.”

OH, I remember… my grandmother got me a reusable grocery bag.

Interviewer is in shock.

What’s it like living in the dorms?

Uhm, the food sucks, particularly because I have allergies.

I do not like to ignore said allergies because of the lack of variety of food. Also, it would be nice to not hear people screaming at one in the morning.

What is your biggest pet peeve?

My biggest pet peeve… when people don’t take my opinion seriously. It peeves me immensely because, as a middle child, I am used to being ignored, and as I grow up, I am Would you instead do a projstarting to tolerate that less. ect in a group or individually? Why? One thing you love but rarely Individually. I think everyone buy for yourself? can relate to this. Because I do not buy myself clothes we all have varying levels of often. I only buy them when importance in how we see our I truly need them. That does, degrees. I really want good however, exclude hoodies. grades but it is not everyone’s When a hoodie, hoodies. priority, so it makes it harder Ifykyk. to work in a group.

Give freshman you a solid piece of advice: GET OUT OF YOUR ROOM. Join some clubs, bro. Get out

If you could be an animal, what would you be and why?

Some of my friends said I am like a koala. An owl, particular-

ly because they can fly, everyone keeps learning freaky facts about them, and they’re nocturnal.

If you had a three-meal course with one main ingredient, what would that ingredient be?

Cheese. My lactose-intolerant self loves cheese.

What vegetable makes pickles?

Cucumbers?

What advice would you give to someone who is new at Burman?

It goes by really quickly. Join as many things as you can in first year so that by second year you can start to narrow things down as your classes get harder. Leave your high school drama at home, people.

Amazon Expandable Pencil Case $12

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Apple iPad Air $600

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Apple Mac Book Air $1,100

By Thirsa Ward

A Doll’s House: Part Two Written by Teresa Bruce

Cassie Hall Denora as Anne Tanihu as Marie Emmy

Ammon Olson as Torvald Yandira Campos as Nora

O

n Saturday, January 25th and Sunday, January 26th, Burman’s Drama Society performed their first production

of the year: “A Doll’s House Part Two” by Lucas Hnath. Back in 2016, Burman’s Drama Society performed “A Doll’s House,” so this most recent production picks up where the last one left off. The story of the play takes place 15 years after Nora Helmer closes the door on her family. Instead, she knocks on the door of her old home and has a request which will ensure she can continue to live the life she has built.

However, she first has to deal with the family that she had left behind. A Doll’s House explores themes of consequences, independence, and unresolved tensions in relationships. The Drama Society had a talented crew who evidently poured their hearts into the production.

Cassie Hall played Anne Marie, Yandira Campos played Nora, Denora Tanihu played Emmy, and Ammon Olson played Torvald. There were many other people who worked behind the scenes, and without them, this play would not have been the success it was. So, to all those involved in those two nights, thank you for sharing your talent and passion with us! The Drama Society still has one more upcoming production, so I encourage you to stay tuned and check your emails!

Cultur ral C

Collis sion

Written by Teresa Bruce

On February 1st, the Burman Black Student Alliance organized Cultural Collision! This event was hosted in the Burman Gymnasium, and attendees were met with an unforgettable evening that highlighted culture, creativity, and connection. The theme of this event was “Roots and Rhythm,” reflecting the rich history of ancestral roots and the vibrant energy of cultural traditions. The event was well attended, and the gym parking lot was packed! This event was open to the community, and Burman put on a show for them. The gym was studded with elaborate booths filled with delicious cultural cuisines and creative merchandise. There were various performances given, and my personal favourite was the traditional African wedding (shout out to the amazing bride, Maeva and the groom, Daniel). The acrobatic team also shared an impressive performance where their strength and flexibility were on full display. This event facilitated a beautiful space where people could explore, connect, and celebrate!

What’re your reading break plans?

Written by Martin Santomin

NBA game My birthday That’s about it - Kenny Torres Basketball and Lebron James - Brandon Weibe Going to Calgary and Banff trip with the “friends” (glutting involved) and Drumheller museum

******* and ******* ****

- Chelsea Alberastine

- Anonymous Indonesian

Probably go home and spend some time with my dog and family. Catch up on homework and go to the gym.

- Aaron Park

Going to the dog park with my dog - Dania Pandala

I’ll be in California all break to visit my girlfriend, but it’s a little cursed cause she’s busy the whole time, and I really don’t know many people in Cali, so really I’m just gonna eat, thrift, and wander around by myself. Maybe do assignments, hard maybe, tho.

- Jezreel Brown Since I got through all my midterms these last two weeks, I have time to take a little break from the hectic Burman lifestyle. As much as I love the motion-filled life Burman has, it’s always good to take a break and reflect. By that, I mean having the most motion-filled week as possible. Hit the mountains, shop, hoop, boulder, travel to yeg/yyc just for food, and anything that I can think of. It will be a very restful week :) - Kyle Bacalso

a cool thermal Guys we don’t have to always wear graphic tees or whatever “vintage” shirt you swear you washed after you got it from the thrift. Or v-necks. Get rid of that, gary vee lookin ahhh boy. Or ladies, we don’t gotta wear crop-tops all the time because everyone knows you’re cold and you look goofy. Thermals are nice long sleeves that you can layer nicely with under your fit and they’ll keep you extra warm. You can get some nice thermals or waffle knit long sleeves at the Gap, Uniqlo, Aritzia or if you wanna get spicy, some streetwear brands like Stussy.

Stussy Garment Aritzia Baby Waffle Dyed LS Thermal in Geller Longsleeve in Bone, $95 Heather Chrome, $35

Gap Waffle-Knit Uniqlo Waffle T-Shirt

Raglan T-Shirt in

in 30 Natural, $29.90

Charcoal heather, $54.95

winte

Hey guys, we’re back at it again with

winter edition, but this edition is even w er!! Omg!1!! So here is my list of winter

throughout your seasonal depression

fuzzy socks

away from your family a

Fuzzy socks are a great alternative to your Aritzia or Haines socks. They’re warm, fun, stylish and give you personality. They could also be a good conversation starter. Boys, it’s not just ladies who can enjoy fuzzy socks; we can as well. Be confident in yourself. Honestly, I would just buy fuzzy socks from the dollarstore or Amazon, but keep it fun, guys.

UGG Women’s Tasman Slipper in Chestnut, $135 Amazon ANTSANG Women’s Fuzzy

ugg tasmans To be honest, I wouldn’t wear these out on a regular occasion

Socks, $24.99

like some people, but they are a nice alternative to slides. They would keep your feet warm going from class to class or when you just want to do work at a cafe and put a lazy fit on.

fleece-lined stockings Women’s winter wear hack alert!!! Ladies, ever wanted to wear that cute dress in the winter? Or perhaps that skirt that you thought you’d wear more in the summer. Well, look no further because you can wear fleece-lined stockings and still look awesome!! I would buy fleece-lined stockings on Amazon, honestly, but if you want to be boujee then you can get them from Aritiza.

Aritzia Everyday Merino Wool Tights in Coal Grey, $98

Amazon CHLDYCST

Written by Martin Santomin

er fits

Fleece Lined Tights Women, $15.99

fleece sweaters

h the fit suggestions. Now we’re doing

Guys, we don’t have to wear our senior’s

warmer!! And the winter is even cold-

hoodies anymore. Let’s retire them and

outfits that will at least keep you swag

switch them. Fleece sweaters can be layered to keep warm, they can be dressed up

n and the fact that you’re 12,000 km

and they can also be dressed down. Quite

and it gets dark at 3 pm.

versatile if you ask me. You can find nice fleece sweaters at the Gap, H&M, Uniqlo or

H&M Sweater in

if you’re really boujee like that, then Aritzia

Gray melange, Gap Textured $34.99

and J. crew. It might honestly be worth it to splurge on one since you can get so much

Sweater in True

wear out of it.

black, $64.95 J. Crew Heritage cotton crewneck sweater in Jcrew Green, $131.50 Aritzia Peggy Sweater in Whisper White, $128

Uniqlo 3D Knit Crew Neck Sweater in 30 Natural, $59.90

Film Festival Written by Emma Mowat

T

he Business Club hosted the Burman Film Festival on February 2. This event included both Burman and PAA students and was an opportunity for students to express their

creativity and showcase their film-making talents. Participants submitted their short films (under 12 minutes) on any subject they wanted (as long as it was PG, of course) to the judges and had the chance to win prizes. The short films were then shown to the public in the Admin chapel. The judges were Josh Rudasingwa, Danae Brousson, and Elijah O’Sullivan.

! s n o i t a l u t a r g n Co The Winners: 1st Place: Gabriel Manhilot People’s Choice: Gabriel Manhilot 2nd Place: Emmanuel Olivier-Jacques and Samara Belhomme (tied)

Interest Club Week

Written by Renee Hall

Every school year, for one week only at Burman University, we have our very own Hunger Games. The tributes: The Interest Clubs. This year’s tributes: - The Drama Society - Theology Club - Swimming Club - Art Club - Badminton Club - French Club - Zumba Club These tributes fought to the death to prove which deserved the title: Best Club at BU. Okay, I’m kidding, but we did have Interest Club Week, in which each of our campus clubs gave each student the opportunity to try something new, meet new, amazing people and create long-lasting memories.

The week started off on January 25th with the Drama Society: They put on a phenomenal performance with the play adaption of A Doll’s House Part Two. The small cast did such a fantastic job they had us on the edge of our seats. I have not felt so many emotions during a ten-minute dialogue.

Jan 26th: We worked up a sweat in the gym with The Badminton Club. They hosted a tournament for men and women. Our winners: Women - Dana Rey and Men - Aaron Park.

Jan 27th: The Theology Club hosted an event in the Hideout to allow students to meet the conference executives of Canada. There was food and fellowship, along with some tremendous first-hand advice for our future church leaders.

Jan 28th: Zumba Club got our hearts racing with an afternoon dance class to have fun, let loose and take a break from the rush of the first couple of weeks of classes.

Jan 29th: The Swimming Club hosted a swimming session from 8-9 PM for all our verified water-benders (we really got our cardio in this week).

Jan 30th: The Art Club hosted their Shadows in Blue Workshop in the old art room under moody light fixtures! We learned how to make cyanotypes, which involved laying objects flat on paper and coating them with a solution. After exposing this artwork to UV rays, the solution left a masterpiece.

Jan 31st: Finally, the week of creativity ended with the French Club. They hosted a crêpes and Kahoot afternoon in the Hideout. After all that cardio, we deserved a little sweet treat.

We thank our Interest Club executives for taking the time out of their busy schedules to host these amazing events and giving each student a chance to experience something new and exciting.

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