Florida Board of Governors appoints UF’s 14th president
STUART BELL WILL IMMEDIATELY ASSUME DUTIES AS THE UNIVERSITY’S PERMANENT PRESIDENT
By Swasthi Maharaj Alligator Staff Writer
The Florida Board of Governors voted at a July 1 special meeting to confirm Stuart Bell as UF’s next president, ending several months of uncertainty for the university.
All but one governor voted for Bell’s confirmation, the outlier being Governor Aubrey Edge.
Bell, who led the University of Alabama for nearly a decade, officially assumed the presidency July 1 after receiving unanimous approval from UF’s Board of Trustees in June and final confirmation from the Board of Governors.
Under Florida law, public university presidents must receive approval from two governing bodies: the university’s board of trustees and the Florida Board of Governors. The university board of trustees leads the presidential search while the board has the final authority to confirm or reject candidates.
The July 1 vote concludes UF’s second presidential search in less than two years and ends a period of leadership instability that saw the university cycle though multiple presidents and interim leaders since 2024.
Bell’s approval follows an extraordinary set of events: Ben Sasse’s resignation, the collapse of former finalist Santa Ono’s candidacy, a clash between the Board of Governors and the university’s Board of Trustees over governance authority and finally, a weeklong delay of Bell’s own confirmation amid these disagreements.
Bell becomes UF’s fourth president or interim president in roughly four years.
A mechanical engineer by trade, Bell served at UA where he oversaw significant enrollment growth, expanded research funding, major capital construction projects and record fundraising campaigns, according to a UA press release. Before Alabama, he held leadership positions at Louisiana
State University and the University of Kansas.
According to U.S. News Rankings, UA is ranked No. 92 in the U.S. UF is currently ranked No. 7.
During the July 1 confirmation hearing, members questioned Bell on topics ranging from diversity, equity and inclusion, UF’s freedom of speech policy, whether racial contract theory belongs in education, faculty hiring and artificial intelligence.
“Great universities do not stand still,” Bell said. “They continually improve. We will do that as an institution.”
Bell has faced criticism online from people like former Florida Rep. Anthony Sabatini, who took to X and Instagram to share his position on Bell’s career trajectory and DEI beliefs.
“Major red flag here,” he wrote. “UF’s Board of Trustees must pump the brakes on this ASAP.”
Bell pushed back on some of this controversy at the July 1 meeting.
“I’m not coming to Florida to bring DEI or woke back,” he said.
Several members at the meeting also praised Bell’s leadership experience. Governor Ed Haddock said he has excellence in academics, legislative experience, personality and fundraising.
Bell’s presidential agreement outlines priorities including filling key interim positions, achieving higher rankings for the Hamilton School for Civic and Classical Education, expanding the university’s AI initiatives, supporting Jewish students and combating antisemitism and continuing growth in research and fundraising.
He will earn an annual base salary of $2 million and be eligible for annual merit increases of up to 3%, performance-based incentive compensation and retention payments.
Bell’s tenure extends through June 30, 2031.
“I will continue to ensure that the University of Florida continues to be the name as people talk about a leader in higher education,” Bell said.
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18- to 20-year-olds can now openly carry a firearm in Florida
A FLORIDA COURT RULING MADE THE CHANGE TO COMPLY WITH SECOND AMENDMENT RIGHTS
By Teia Williams Alligator Staff Writer
Editor’s note: This story contains mentions of gun violence and suicide.
Adults under 21 can now legally carry a firearm after a June 17 Florida court ruling.
The ruling stated the previous age limit unconstitutionally infringed upon the Second Amendment rights of young adults ages 18 to 20. This is not the first time Florida courts have ruled in favor of expanding Second Amendment rights.
In September 2025, Florida’s 38-year-old open
carry ban was lifted. Law-abiding citizens can now openly carry firearms inside businesses unless they choose to prohibit firearms on their property.
The latest ruling clarified 18- to 20-year-olds hold the same rights.
Florida law prohibits those under 21 from purchasing a firearm, but they can still legally obtain one. Eighteen- to 20-year-olds can possess guns through inheritance or gifts from relatives.
Gainesville Police Department spokesperson Art Forgey said the department hasn't experienced any issues related to open carry since it became legal in September. GPD doesn’t anticipate any changes with the new court ruling, he added.
“The same legal principles and enforcement considerations that have applied since the open carry law took effect will continue to apply under
Story description finish with comma, pg#
Photos from the capitol’s The Great American State Fair and Salute to America. Find this photo gallery on pg. 3.
The Avenue: Fire station rooster Meet Dawg, the crowing celebrity of Butler Plaza, pg. 6 Opinions Is law school still worth the cost? pg. 8
Discover the Hidden Gem of Downtown Gainesville, featuring beautifully appointed guest rooms and private cottages. Only 19 blocks from campus with free parking and an elevated breakfast included.
Daniela Ortiz // Alligator Staff
As the U.S. nears its 250th anniversary, leaders reflect on democracy and public service in Gainesville. Read more on pg. 3.
Remembering UF student Brooke Elizabeth Smith
FAMILY, FRIENDS SAID THE NURSING STUDENT BROUGHT LIGHT AND LEVITY TO THEIR LIVES
By Swasthi Maharaj Alligator Staff Writer
Brooke Smith had a way of sitting next to someone and making the space between them disappear.
Her cousins, Mikey and Antonio, said whenever she entered a room, she always made the people in it feel comfortable and at ease.
“It wasn’t just what you did,” her cousins wrote in a statement to The Alligator. “It was who you were.”
Smith, 23, died May 26. She was a UF nursing student and was only months away from completing her degree.
Those who knew her said she carried both strength and softness. Her cousins said she never allowed challenges to define or limit her.
Instead, they deepened her empathy and shaped the way she showed up for others.
“You were incredibly dedicated,” her cousins wrote. “From the outside looking in, we know the nursing program was not easy, but you were built for it. You carried strength, compassion and resilience in everything you did.”
Smith previously earned a bachelor’s degree in business from Santa Fe College and was set to graduate from UF with her nursing degree shortly after her 24th birthday. Smith wanted to become a travel nurse.
Her cousins said their time together was filled with deep conversations, laughter, jokes and endless memories that remain with them every day.
Smith’s friend Chloe Fernander remembers her as someone who made connections feel immediate and natural. In a statement shared with The Alligator, she described their first interaction as something that felt effortless, as if familiarity existed long before
their introductions.
“The first time we met, she sat down next to me, struck up a conversation and made me feel like we had known each other much longer,” she wrote. “That was just who she was: welcoming, kind and genuinely interested in the people around her.”
Fernander recalled how Brooke was always there for her friends.
“The last time I saw her, she was the only person willing to go throw a boomerang with me in the sticky Gainesville heat,” she wrote.
Although the rain changed their plans, the two spent a few hours talking and laughing together.
She said the joy, love and laughter Smith brought into her and others’ lives won’t be forgotten.
Apart from pursuing nursing school, Smith also worked at Apex YogaPod Gainesville as a certified yoga instructor.
In a statement by Smith’s family, sent to The Alligator by the owner of YogaPod, she was de-
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scribed as independent, curious and drawn toward trying new things — always willing to embrace the unexpected.
“Brooke shared her light, her love and her joie de vivre with others,” her family wrote. “Her spirit and soul spoke with generosity and inclusion, lifting others up.”
Humor was another of Smith’s strong suits.
They remember her laughter as contagious and unmistakable, making others laugh without meaning to. She easily brought people together with her goofy nature and smiles.
“Elle brûle plus brillante que toutes les étoiles,” her family wrote in their statement.
The French phrase translates to, “She burns brighter than all the stars.”
“Brooke shone so brightly,” her family wrote, “and her light was extinguished too soon.”
Brooke Smith, 23, was a UF nursing student and was only months away from completing her degree.
SHORT TERM CABIN RENTALS
Local leaders reflect on their political journeys amid America’s 250th anniversary
GAINESVILLE MAYOR, COUNTY COMMISSIONER AND LOCAL ADVOCATE REFLECT ON THEIR LIVES IN CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
By Olivia Lofaso Alligator Staff Writer
As the nation celebrates 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, local leaders and community advocates reflect not only on the nation’s past, but also on the future of policymaking and advocacy in their communities.
Marihelen Wheeler: From classrooms to the county commission
For Marihelen Wheeler, the idea of local leadership didn’t begin in a county building. It began in a classroom.
Before her time on the county commission, Wheeler spent 36 years as a public school teacher. She said she was inspired to run for public office because she felt state leaders weren’t giving enough attention to the needs of public schools.
“I was concerned about public education and the needs of some of our children,” she said. “That’s one of the things that got me inter-
ested in poking at Tallahassee to make them understand that there were greater needs that were not being met.”
Her concerns inspired her to run for the Florida House of Representatives in 2012 and for Congress in 2014 — roles she ultimately did not secure. The support later motivated her to run for the commission, she added.
Wheeler was first elected to the Alachua County Commission in 2018. She was reelected to the same seat in 2022.
She said the transition from education to local government felt relatively seamless because of the collaborative nature between the
commission and community members. Coming from a background as an art teacher, she said her fellow commissioners helped ease her adjustment to local office.
Wheeler’s time as county commissioner will come to an end in November. As she prepares to leave office, she said one of her goals is to help inspire the next generation of political leadership.
“Two hundred fifty years ago, we saw a lot of really smart people come together to come up with a plan that would solidify a bunch of ragtag folks who came here from all over the world into one unit,” she said. “I am trying to engage the younger generation to
consider running for office or getting ready to do that.”
Donna Waller: Cheerleader for democracy
For nearly six decades, Donna Waller has been a member of the League of Women Voters. Her interest in civic engagement and political science has followed her throughout her life, dating back to her time as a graduate student in Gainesville.
Read the rest online at alligator.org.
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Noah Lantor // Alligator Staff
Scenes from around The Great American State Fair and the Salute to America celebrating America’s 250th Birthday, Saturday, July 4, 2026, on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
Court rules Florida adults under 21 can carry firearms
OPEN CARRY, from pg. 1
this ruling,” Forgey wrote in an email to The Alligator.
Under these court rulings, adults don’t need to be certified to openly carry a firearm.
Taylor Slayton, a 24-year-old staff member at Shoot Gainesville Target Range, openly carries his firearm when he stops at gas stations before hunting.
“When it comes into people under the age of 21, it gets a little more sketchy, in a sense,” Slayton said, “especially since they’re still in that maturing stage.”
People 21 and over are required to take a training course for a concealed weapons license, he said, and it would be safer if 18- to 20-year-olds also had to do a training course for open carry.
“If they brought something into that [open carry] that says, ‘Hey, I’ve been through a specific class, I have this training and I’m allowed to do this,’ I don’t think there would be a problem with it,” Slayton said.
A 2023 bill ruled all gun owners must meet the same requirements as those who have a concealed weapons license in order to conceal carry, but the concealed carry permit itself is no longer a requirement.
Within the ruling, 18- to 20-year-olds have also gained the right to apply for a concealed weapons license, though it is not required to conceal carry in Florida.
The ruling extending the right to open carry was made during Gun Violence Awareness Month.
Impact GNV, the city's gun violence prevention program, spent the month of June hosting events to bring awareness to its mission.
Program manager Brittany Coleman said Impact GNV isn’t involved with legislation like open carry, but the program advocates for young adults to learn
about being responsible gun owners.
“One of the things we want to do is encourage parents, adults, caregivers to have conversations with their young people about responsible gun ownership,” Coleman said.
It’s important for adults to find available training to ensure they know how to properly use a firearm, she said.
Another organization, the League of Women Voters of Alachua County, aims to encourage people to vote. Its Gun Violence Prevention and Safety Committee
advocates for secure storage of firearms.
The committee’s main concern is the risk of suicide. Gwendolyn Saffo, the vice president of the league and committee chair, said she’s worried the new ruling will bring an increase in injuries for young adults.
Suicide is the most common cause of death by firearm in Alachua County, according to a 2025 study by the local League of Women Voters. Nationwide, suicide is the leading cause of death among individuals ages 15 to 34, according
to a 2026 study by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
The risk is why the committee emphasizes proper storage, Saffo said.
If a weapon is secured in locked storage, she said, the seconds it would take to unlock and access it could make a difference. In those seconds, another person could stop them, or they could change their mind.
Saffo said allowing 18- to 20-year-olds to openly carry a firearm is a safety risk because of their age.
UF Public Safety celebrates K-9s’ birthday ‘paw-ty’
VISITORS JOINED THE CELEBRATION FOR CAKE, PHOTOS AND AN UNFUR-GETTABLE AFTERNOON
By Olivia Lofaso Alligator Staff Writer
Bomb detection dogs Bailey and Libby traded their usual collars for birthday bandannas and headbands as the four-legged members of UF Police Department celebrated their special day on June 30. Libby and Bailey are Labrador retrievers who work alongside UPD officers to conduct bomb sweeps before sports games and other large events around UF. The two can frequently be spotted around campus, from athletic events to student orientation sessions.
Inside the Reitz Union, visitors and
staff gushed over the pair and posed for pictures with the birthday girls. Each dog celebrated with a bone-shaped cake made with dog-safe chocolate and decorated with pink icing.
Bailey politely nibbled her cake as several onlookers snapped pictures from above and below. “Aws” filled the room as the dog’s “Birthday Girl” headband bobbed amidst tail wags and careful bites.
“Libby waits for no one,” one officer joked as the other Labrador dived into her cake.
The humans didn’t leave hungry, either. Visitors were treated to popcorn and cake and even received birthday hats and stickers to join in the festivities.
The joint celebration falls between the two dogs’ birthdays — with Libby’s on June 20 and Bailey’s on July 21.
Bailey will turn 3 years old next month.
She began working as a bomb detection dog in April 2025, frequently attending football games and events. Her handler, UPD safety officer Nate Smith, described her as a timid but hardworking companion.
“She comes home with me every day,” he said. “Bailey was very timid. Last football season was rough on her … I’ve been exposing her to all the different events and crowds of people like this, and now look at her — she’s a happy girl.”
Libby turned 6 years old earlier this month. In 2022, she met her handler, UPD officer Renee Jost, after being purchased from the International K-9 College.
Afterward, she went through a monthlong training program to become a bomb detection dog, Jost said.
This was Libby’s second birthday celebration since becoming a member of the UFPD safety team. She previously had a
Last year, a 20-year-old opened fire in Florida State University’s student union, killing two and injuring others.
To Saffo, the risk of suicide and events like these bring up the question: Are 18- to 20-year-olds at the right maturity level to carry a firearm?
“If I’m not mistaken, you have to be 21 years old to purchase a gun,” she said. “So, when we talk about open carry between the age of 18 and 20, that seems a little counterintuitive.”
@teia_williams twilliams@alligator.org
birthday party celebrating her 4th birthday in 2024. Jost described Libby as a toy-loving goofball who loves to watch television when she’s off duty.
“Fetch is life,” Jost said. “When we get home, she is a little bit of a different dog. She’ll calm down. She likes to lie on the couch or in bed and loves to watch TV with us, which is kind of funny.”
Between photos and pets, the dogs eagerly greeted UPD Public Safety staff and students.
Kailey Tedjeske, a UPD Public Safety spokesperson, said the event was an opportunity for students and community members to learn more about the department.
“It’s a great opportunity for both dogs to get together and celebrate their birthdays,” she said.
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Dylan Speicher // Alligator Staff
A recent court decision allows adults under 21 to openly carry a firearm
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FOOD & DRINK
Cypress & Grove offers a second kind of brew
ITS NEW COFFEE VENTURE, MORNING BREW, WILL OCCUPY THE BREWERY IN ITS DAYTIME HOURS
By Christopher Rodriguez Avenue Staff Writer
As you step across the gravel parking lot of Cypress & Grove Brewing Co., the smell of hops brewing will transform into the smell of coffee beans.
This is the aroma of Morning Brew, the brewery’s new coffee venture that soft-launched earlier last month. Its grand opening is set to take place Aug. 8 as the brewery celebrates its ninth anniversary. The soft launch provides a window for the brewery to finetune the cafe, train the staff and smooth out any wrinkles in their systems.
The main purpose of the cafe is to bring more traffic to the brewery during its daytime hours, according to 60-year-old co-founder Patrick Burger. The idea came about as he enjoyed his morning pot of coffee before the day’s brewing.
“We like our coffee in the morning and then beer in the evening, so it just seemed like a natural extension,” Burger said. “We felt like it would be great to use our space more during the day, and the lights are always on, the ACs are running. Why not include this in the morning?”
Looking out the windows of the new cafe, you can find Cypress & Grove’s brewers hard at work making the next batch of beer as hops are malted, milled, boiled and fermented.
Partnering with his brother-inlaw, Ward Huntley — who owns Jacksonville-based bakery Village Bread and Bagel and Jacksonville roastery Condaxis Coffee — Burger was able to get the side project up and running.
He hopes in the future to source from more Gainesville roasteries, keeping local businesses at the heart of the operation. He’s already partnered with Afternoon Coffee and is working toward collaborations with other local roasteries like Sweetwater and Resident.
El Caimán
Local relief organizations support Venezuela after devastating twin earthquakes June 27.
Read more on page 7.
One thing separating Morning Brew from the rest of the Gainesville coffee scene is its unique location. Cypress & Grove is built from a transformed historic icehouse, where water sourced from the Floridian aquifer beneath was frozen and sold. The very same water is used in both Cypress & Grove’s coffee and beers.
The icehouse functioned as a sort of resting place for travelers as they stocked up on ice for a trip to surf at Crescent Beach or fish at Cedar Key. People from all places and going to all places would stop at the icehouse to gather, 55-yearold co-founder Sally Adkins said. Cypress & Grove is dedicated to continuing this tradition of community gathering, and Morning Brew is the next step in its development as a community hub. This is accomplished through thorough event planning — one glance at the brewery’s calendar reveals a plethora of events to convene around.
But Adkins has found a lot of gatherings seem to organize themselves. From birthdays to baby showers and even weddings, residents of the Grove Street neighbor-
hood seem drawn to gathering in the local brewery.
“It’s been really fun to see the entire Grove Street neighborhood transform,” Adkins said. “I feel like we put a lot of energy, and that energy just started multiplying in many different spaces around here.”
Ruth McIlhenny, an adminis trator at UF’s Levin College of Law and Cypress & Grove regular, has already been to the new coffee shop three times. She appreciates the early opening hours of the cafe, allowing her to pop in right before work for a morning brew.
Being able to support a local business while getting her caffeine fix is an added bonus, she said.
“This brewery is kind of like home for my husband and I,” McIlhenny said. “We are friends with the owners and we really like to support them and other local businesses. We would much rath er choose a local restaurant, local coffee shop over the big corporate world.”
@ChrisRodri29386 crodriguez@alligator.org
Mily Moran // Alligator Staff
The entrance to Cypress & Grove Brewing Co.’s new café, Saturday, July 4, 2026, in Gainesville, Fla.
Meet Dawg, Gainesville’s cock of the town
THE ROOSTER IS TAKEN CARE OF BY THE COMMUNITY NEAR BUTLER PLAZA
By Mackenzie Haas Avenue Staff Writer
Why did the rooster cross the road? To get to the fire station, of course.
Picture where roosters typically are: a barn, the countryside or a chicken coop. The last place you’d think to find one is beside a Walmart and a fire station.
But that’s where you’ll find Dawg.
Dawg is a silver rooster with a loud crowing — loud enough to be heard over the sound of the fire station’s alarms. While he may look lost as he aimlessly wanders around, Dawg knows exactly where he is and what he’s doing.
He’s well-loved by locals in the area and is consistently fed and taken care of. The rooster can typically be found at or near Gainesville Fire Rescue Station Nine, sometimes cozied up on a pile of firefighter jackets.
Apparently, he loves to dine on watermelon.
Lately, countless Facebook posts have circulated about his adventures in the area. Many were initially concerned about Dawg and trying to identify the rooster’s owners. But fire station employees say he’s loved and spoiled rotten — and doesn’t need any help finding his way, as made clear by numerous replies in the comments clarifying who Dawg is.
Some have even tried to save Dawg, thinking he is in danger or in need of aid. They’re promptly informed of the reality.
Bradley Slease, a 28-year-old technician, had seen the rooster beside the road while shopping at Walmart. As an animal lover with over 30 of his own chickens, he was concerned about Dawg’s safety. He attempted to bring Dawg home but was quickly stopped when he realized the rooster wasn’t a stray.
“I reached out and scooped him up real quick,” Slease said. “I ran back across the street to my truck, and by the time I made it to where my truck was parked, I heard ‘Hey, hey, put him
back, put him back.’”
Dawg brings a much-needed boost of morale to the local community, bringing a very fun sense of enjoyment to those lucky enough to see him. His recognizability has only grown over time.
Valerie Lantigua, a 27-year-old UF laboratory technician, made a post on the “Gainesville Word of Mouth” Facebook group about the rooster June 29.
Lantigua lost her own rooster, Bruno, and never got closure on his disappearance. She was compelled to prevent that from happening to someone else.
Her post blew up, amassing over 100 comments clarifying Dawg is cared for in the Butler Plaza area.
“I was gonna just drive by [Dawg],” she said. “And I’m like maybe he’ll figure [out where to go], but there’s a lot of traffic here, and I was just thinking maybe if I make a post, there’s a 1% chance this rooster belongs to somebody.”
Dawg has grown enough in fame to warrant his own Insta-
gram account, which details some of the rooster’s hilariously cute moments. One post is a video of his cawing, with the caption “Wake up!” His sound reminds the community it’s time to start their day.
Dawg has dealt with quite a few rooster-napping attempts from people trying to steal him away as he wanders around. If you see Dawg, leave him be. He has people looking forward to seeing him around.
On top of that, don’t try to feed Dawg. Once again, he doesn’t need it. His large body, covered in beautifully white feathers, doesn’t come from nothing, and he is well-maintained by the community.
David Haslam, the 43-year-old owner of Campus Scooters of Gainesville, commented on some of the Facebook posts to explain the rooster has a home. He owns chickens himself, and he learned about Dawg a few months ago after informing a firefighter the rooster was beside the bridge on Celebration Pointe Avenue. Haslam’s since been commenting to ensure people don’t mess with the bird.
“Chickens will get out of the yard sometimes … but they come back,” he said. “So, when people mess with [Dawg], I think they might have had the impression that this is a lost chicken. He’s not lost; he’ll go back, so just leave him alone.”
Bright yellow “Slow down, chicken crossing” signs have gone up at the four-way between the fire station and Walmart, a message to drivers to be careful with their speed — and to people who may think Dawg is just a random chicken.
No matter how far he wanders, Dawg finds his way back home. So, if the silver rooster graces someone’s presence, it’s important to leave him be and let him cross. He’s loved by many, and his vibrant personality brings comfort, positivity and a sense of interconnectedness within the community.
Give Dawg a friendly wave, but don’t pick him up, put him in your car or call the station on him; he’s exactly where he wants to be.
mhaas@alligator.org
Museum Nights
Thursday, July 9, 6 – 9 pm
Liberty & Art for All
Celebrate the 250th anniversary of the US, America250, by reflecting on our diverse communities through the lens of Florida and American art. Performances by musician Rita Youngman and Poet Laureate E. Stanley Richardson. Activities include map making with UF Shands Health Arts in Medicine.
Wine Down
Thursday, July 30, 6 – 9 pm
Wine down with us this month and enjoy light bites, wine and beer from Blue Gill while listening to the indie pop sounds of the Lightyear Sisters.
Sonaiya Brown // Alligator Staff Dawg, the persistently present pet rooster of Fire Station 9, is seen walking across from the firehouse, Saturday, July 4th, 2026, in Gainesville, Fla.
image: (detail) Harold Newton, Pine Island , undated, The Florida Art Collection, Gifts from Samue H. and Roberta T. Vickers
El Caimán
‘We are devastated': UF community, relief organizations support Venezuela after earthquake
UF’S VENEZUELAN STUDENT ASSOCIATION AND FLORIDABASED RELIEF ORGANIZATIONS ARE COLLECTING DONATIONS AND ORGANIZING COMMUNITY EFFORTS TO PROVIDE HUMANITARIAN AID TO VENEZUELA
By Kathia Montenegro Alligator Staff Writer
When twin earthquakes measuring magnitudes 7.5 and 7.2 struck Venezuela June 27, Daniela Lambert spent all night anxiously waiting for news of her family’s survival.
"We are devastated," said Lambert, a 20-year-old Venezuelan-American and Santa Fe College animal science sophomore. "My mom was up all night trying to get in contact with my family members." Her relatives survived, but the earthquakes left lasting damage. Her cousins' home was damaged, the family lost their dog and their dental practice lost nearly
80% of its clientele.
Her family is now seeking financial and medical donations through social media to rebuild their home, restore their business and find new housing, Lambert said. So far, the family has raised $541 while seven relatives remain living together in her aunt's home.
The devastation also sparked a wave of relief efforts across Florida.
Members of UF’s Venezuelan Student Association, also known as VENSA, are organizing donation drives, recruiting volunteers and partnering with local businesses to send humanitarian aid to those affected.
"There are many different ways you can be affected by the earthquakes in Venezuela," said Valentina Jedlicka, a 19-yearold UF psychology junior and VENSA's vice president of community service.
VENSA started by promoting existing food drives and connecting volunteers with organizations collecting aid, Jedlicka said. The student organization partnered with Tinker, a Venezuelan restaurant in
‘No sé, no sabo’: How a two-word
LONG
SHAMING LATINOS OUT OF THEIR MOTHER TONGUE, GAINESVILLE RESIDENTS SAID THE WOUNDS FROM THE LABEL ARE REAL — AND SO IS THE RECLAMATION
By Aaron Zagal Alligator Staff Writer
Many Latinos today are well aware of the stigmatizing “no sabo kid” stereotype, a label attached to Hispanic individuals who aren’t fluent in Spanish. The phrase has long carried a patronizing edge within first- and second-generation Hispanic communities — and Gainesville is no exception.
Spanish is the most widely spoken language in the city outside English. Nearly 29,000 residents — 7.35% of Gainesville’s population — speak it at home and by about 70% of Latinos across the U.S.
"No sabo" is a grammatically incorrect conjugation of the Spanish verb “saber,” which means “to know.” The phrase roughly translates to “I don’t know,” and it became associated with heritage speakers whose language abilities reflect a unique position between two cultures. Over time, it became a way to discredit Latinos with broken Spanish, implying they weren’t Latino enough or culturally integrated enough to belong to either their heritage community or mainstream American life.
Gainesville, to expand its relief efforts.
Maria Carrero-Jimenez, an 18-year-old UF nursing sophomore and VENSA community manager, said the organization has continued collecting donations, organizing community drives and promoting relief efforts through social media.
Overcrowding, a lack of preparation and lack of medical equipment have heavily impacted Venezuelan hospitals, Carrero-Jimenez said. One of VENSA’s current priorities is gathering first-aid kits and medical supplies.
As relief efforts continue, she said she has seen a rise in volunteering.
"It has been very wonderful to see how many people have reached out to us and people who are not from Venezuela," she said. "To people volunteering, I can't say thank you enough."
Supporters have included people from Colombia, Brazil and the Middle East, she said, demonstrating how the disaster has united communities beyond Venezuela.
“Even though we are not there physically to help in Venezuela, I think it’s very
wonderful that so many people have risen up to help despite the distance,” she said. Carrero-Jimenez encourages people to continue to volunteer and provide aid, she added.
"This is something that doesn't end tomorrow," she said. "It will still be affecting a lot of people in the upcoming days and possibly years."
Valeria Cadavieco, a 21-year-old UF marine science senior and VENSA president, said the organization is collecting donations at Marston Science Library and will host a World Cup watch party on July 11, with proceeds being used to purchase supplies for families affected by the earthquakes. The Whole Foods on Archer Road also donated cases of food to be shipped to Venezuela, she added.
Despite the tragedy, she said the outpouring of support has offered hope.
Read the rest online at alligator.org.
KMontenegro@alligator.org.
label follows Gainesville's Latinos
At the CollegeBoard-hosted 2024 Preparate Conference, a national event uniting educators and advocates in support of Latino students, attendees described the phrase plainly: "language shaming," "broken Spanish" and "criticism from your own people that you're not Hispanic enough."
Nearly 14% of Gainesville's population identifies as Hispanic or Latino and the phrase still carries enough weight to instill embarrassment among non-fluent Latinos today.
Daniela Velazquez, a 20-year-old University of South Florida biomedical science junior and the daughter of two Colombianborn parents, knows that weight firsthand.
Velazquez grew up in Broward County, where not speaking Spanish as a second-generation Latino was common enough to go unremarked. She didn't feel the full force of the label until she left for college, she said.
She was shocked to feel differentiated by her own people, and her attempts at speaking Spanish were met with distaste.
"It’s never super blatant or super rude," Velazquez said. "It was always like, 'Oh…’, or like, 'OK, sure…' Minimal comments that are rooted in criticism."
The sharpest moments, she said, came from other first-generation students who questioned whether she could call herself Colombian at all.
Rather than retreat, Velazquez said the label became fuel.
"I am going to learn Spanish just to prove you wrong," she said. "The haters are your motivators."
Cultural stressors have widened the Spanish language gap among U.S.-born Latinos. Assimilation pressures, English-only schooling policies and immigrant parents who choose to speak English at home to protect their children from discrimination have quietly severed the linguistic chain across generations. Mexican-American children were physically beaten in schools for speaking Spanish, and California, once a bilingual state, stripped bilingual representation as Hispanics lost political power.
Generation Z, which has reshaped advocacy through social media, is rewriting that story. Young Latinos have used TikTok to push back on Spanish-language shaming and redefine what it means to be Hispanic in the U.S. The hashtag #nosabo surpassed 644 million video views on the platform in 2023.
Some heritage speakers have reclaimed the label entirely, drawing attention to their unique position as bridges between two cultures — what researchers sometimes call a third culture, not fully belonging either but shaped by both.
Velazquez never let the gap in fluency convince her the culture wasn't hers.
Read the rest online at alligator.org.
@azagalyaji azagal@alligator.org
Sports: Baseball
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Law school is becoming a luxury good. Universities must support students
The rising costs of law school, coupled with the One Big Beautiful Bill Act’s limits on graduate student loan borrowing, have caused massive anxiety among students.
According to a recent survey of aspiring pre-law students, a staggering 97% say they are concerned about the cost of law school to some degree. Nearly 43% of them said they expect to graduate with $100,000 or more in debt.
As law school becomes a luxury good, the question is no longer only whether students can afford it but whether it’s worth the cost.
This shift can have repercussions beyond career ambition. It can drive students away from meaningful but lesser-paying legal roles like public interest law, legal aid and advocacy work to pay off their debts. It can alter how the profession functions altogether.
We don’t just need to protect the
From
Iecosystem within which law operates. More importantly, we need to protect our students’ well-being and their ability to pursue a profession they’re passionate about.
So, what can law schools actually do?
First, they must recalibrate the duration of a legal education. The three-year model piles up costs and holds students back from experiential learning.
According to the same survey by Juris Education mentioned earlier, a national law school admissions consulting firm, 65% of prospective students said they would consider attending a two-year law program if given a choice. Accelerated Juris Doctor programs — or even hybrid pathways — can reduce the cost of a degree.
Such programs would also pose challenges like the time needed for bar exam preparation, academic rigor and the quality of legal train-
ing. However, because not many of these programs exist, universities can innovate and design them to address these concerns.
Second, law schools must increase both merit-based and needbased financial aid. They can begin by exercising greater transparency in how aid is distributed among students, removing unnecessary conditions on scholarships to broaden their scope and offering more grant programs.
Students who work in public service law, legal clinics or advocacy can also be offered extra financial assistance or incentives to pursue their work without having to worry about the insurmountable costs associated with securing an education.
Third, law schools should assist students in understanding the financial consequences of their career path. This is where law advising and career counseling depart-
ments must play an active role. If students are going to graduate with six-figure and higher debt after law school, they must understand their financial priorities before they enter the legal profession.
This can translate into more customized help choosing a law specialty that helps students meet their financial obligations. Advisers should at least be cognizant of career growth patterns, financial projections and best- and worstcase scenarios for each student. Many students — in law school or otherwise — enter graduate education without a clear understanding of financial costs. This lack of practical knowledge only adds to their uncertainty and anxiety about their future.
The increasing cost of a law degree isn’t only an indicator of worth; it also sheds light on the issues of access, affordability and fairness. If cost becomes the only factor
deterring a highly talented and motivated student from pursuing a profession of their choice, we’re doing a disservice to these students and the future of law.
Higher education institutions must rethink traditional law school templates, find innovative ways to financially support students based on both need and merit and educate students on the financial realities of studying law.
Arush Chandna is a co-founder of Juris Education, a leading law school admissions consulting firm.
Glacier to Gainesville, national and state parks show the importance of nature conservation
t’s a bright, sunny day. What do you do?
You could take a float down one of the numerous springs near Gainesville; it can be a refreshing and relaxing experience. Or you could visit the crowd-pleasing Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, brimming with wildlife like bison, horses and alligators.
What if I told you that these natural environments may not exist one day? While enjoying these landscapes can be a memorable experience, it is important to consider that our actions may cause harm.
This summer, I have had the fortunate opportunity to visit Glacier National Park, which spans over 1,500 square miles across Montana and Canada.
During my stay, I acquired a deep appreciation for nature conservation. Experiencing breathtaking landscapes and spectacular views really can change your perspective on life and make you realize how important it is
to respect the environment.
The national park is filled with abundant wildlife species, towering mountains and multiple bodies of water. It is important to protect the park so the environment and ecosystems can thrive.
Since the first national park was established over 150 years ago, the overall purpose of national parks has been to preserve landscapes, wildlife and unique ecosystems from industrial development. Therefore, it is important for visitors to respect the park’s rules and regulations. Park rangers educate incoming tourists on how to protect the environment and themselves.
At the Apgar Visitor Center, visitors can learn more about nature conservation in the park. There, I had the privilege to speak with interpretive park ranger Jaron Montgomery about ways communities can respect local wildlife.
Montgomery educated me on the importance of communities considering migration patterns that animals have and providing habitats for them. When animals don’t have a place to rest and find food on their journey, their chances for survival are very slim. By providing a habitat for them, communities help maintain healthy wildlife populations and increase the biodiversity in an ecosystem. Having a rich biodiversity makes an ecosystem more resilient to potentially harmful environmental factors.
Montgomery also told me about the importance of respecting natural bodies of water in the park. Tourists who visit the lakes and rivers are at risk of bringing aquatic invasive species — whether plants or animals — that could take over native species. To prevent harm, the national park inspects any incoming boats 30 days prior to their visit to Glacier National Park.
The views expressed here are not necessarily those of The Alligator.
So, while Gainesville doesn’t have a national park, we still need to treasure and care for our own natural features — like Paynes Prairie and the various springs — all the same. We may lack Montana’s breathtaking landscapes and staggering mountains, but it’s just as important we treat them with respect. If we all adopt the cautious and considerate mindset of Glacier’s park rangers, we can help preserve the natural landscapes in Gainesville for future generations to come.
Ella Finkelstein is a contributing writer for The Alligator.
The Alligator encourages comments from readers. Letters to the editor should not exceed 600 words (about one letter-sized page). They must be typed, double-spaced and must include the author’s name, classification and phone number. Names will be withheld if the writer shows just cause. We reserve the right to edit for length, grammar, style and libel. Send letters to opinions@alligator.org, bring them to 2700
32604-2257.Columns of about 450 words about original topics and editorial cartoons are also welcome. Questions? Call 352-376-4458.
Arush Chandna opinions@alligator.org
Ella Finkelstein opinions@alligator.org
Los Angeles Times Daily Crossword Puzzle
Edited by Patti Varol
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Trivia Test
1. TELEVISION: What is Walter White's codename in the drama "Breaking Bad"?
2. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: Which month of the year has the fewest letters in its name?
3. U.S. STATES: Which state is known as the Prairie State?
4. LANGUAGE: What is the British term for a bike's training wheels?
5. ASTRONOMY: What is the Earth's only natural satellite?
6. FOOD & DRINK: What is a more common name for the fruit sometimes called "alligator pear"?
7. MOVIES: What kind of creature is Thumper in the animated movie "Bambi"?
8. LITERATURE: What is the name of the python in "The Jungle Book"?
9. GEOGRAPHY: Which countries and islands make up the geographic area known as Oceania?
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Sports Quiz
1. Which team completed the largest comeback in NFL history after being down 33-0 at halftime to the Indianapolis Colts and winning 39-36 in overtime of a December 2022 game?
2. How old was PGA of America member Gus Andreone in 2014 when he recorded his eighth hole-in-one?
3. Who became the first woman to win a PDC World Darts Championship match when she bested Ted Evetts 3-2 at the 2020 World Championships?
4. Which Baseball Hall of Famer played shortstop for the New York Yankees (1941-1956) and went on to a 40-year career as a broadcaster for the team?
5. Which player scored a hat trick in a losing effort for France in the final match of the 2022 FIFA World Cup soccer tournament?
6. In December 1976, a small private airplane crashed into the upper deck 10 minutes after the completion of an NFL game at which stadium?
7. Which right winger holds the NHL record for consecutive regular-season games played with 1,064 from 2009-2023?
Phil Rizzuto.
Kylian Mbappe.
Memorial Stadium.
Phil Kessel.
The four regions are Australasia
and New Zealand), Polynesia, Melanesia and Micronesia.
MONDAY, JULY 6, 2026
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BASEBALL
Florida addresses key needs in transfer portal; left-handed pitching remains a question
THE PORTAL IS CLOSED,
BUT FLORIDA COULD STILL ADD TALENT AS IT LOOKS TO COMPLETE ITS 2027 ROSTER
By Colton Veres Sports Writer
The college baseball transfer portal officially closed June 30, meaning no more players can enter. However, players already in the portal still have time to weigh their options and head to new programs.
Florida has put together a good — but not great — portal class so far with nine commitments for the 2027 season: Florida Gulf Coast catcher Jon Embury, Samford catcher Eddie Marshall, Utah Tech second baseman Kyle McDaniel, Florida Atlantic infielder John Martinez, Gaston College infielder Caden Davidson, Oklahoma outfielder Drew Dickerson, Oregon State left-handed pitcher Trey Morris, Oregon State right-handed pitcher Zach Edwards and Jacksonville State right-handed pitcher Maddox McDougall.
While the Gators addressed several roster needs, one concern remains: left-handed pitching.
Florida entered the portal needing more
VOLLEYBALL
production from lefty arms after relying almost exclusively on graduate Ernesto-Lugo Canchola during the 2026 season. Canchola, who earned the nickname "Everyday Ernie" for how frequently he pitched, was the only lefthanded reliever head coach Kevin O'Sullivan consistently trusted.
When the transfer portal opened, every lefthanded pitcher besides freshman Jackson Hoyt entered the portal, leaving Hoyt the only returning left-hander after Canchola graduated.
To this point, Florida has added just one left-handed pitcher, Oregon State Freshman All-American Trey Morris.
Morris followed pitching coach Rich Dorman to Gainesville after Dorman was officially hired on June 15. In his lone season with the Beavers, Morris posted a 1.98 ERA with 67 strikeouts through 59 innings while working both out of the bullpen and in the starting rotation.
His best pitch is his changeup, which generated an impressive 61.3% miss rate. Morris is ranked as the No. 58 overall transfer by Baseball America.
With junior starter Liam Peterson likely to depart in the Major League Baseball Draft, Morris appears to be the favorite to fill the Saturday starter role. However, Hoyt would still be the lone left-handed option in the bullpen. Florida currently has three left-handed
pitchers committed from the high school ranks: Colin White, Carter Cox and Tyler Ellis.
In a best-case scenario, all three arrive on campus. More realistically, one or two could be selected in the MLB Draft before they ever reach Gainesville.
White appears to have the highest chance of signing professionally. Baseball America projected him as a pitcher who could soar up draft boards before the season, and he strengthened his stock at the MLB Draft Combine by posting the fourth-highest spin rate among Day 1 attendees while reaching 96 mph with his fastball.
Both Cox and Ellis also have opportunities to be drafted and sign professionally before enrolling at Florida. The MLB Draft is scheduled for July 11-12.
Even if all three arrive in Gainesville, it is difficult to project how much they would contribute as freshmen.
That uncertainty could leave Florida searching for additional left-handed pitching.
Although most of the top left-handed arms have committed elsewhere, a few notable names remain available.
Michigan freshman Shane Brinham is one option.
The All-Big Ten freshman appeared in 18 games, including 10 starts, posting a 3.88 ERA with 61 strikeouts across 65 innings during his
lone season with the Wolverines.
His best outing came May 21 against Ohio State in the Big Ten Tournament, when he threw a complete-game shutout with 11 strikeouts.
The Canadian's calling card is his advanced feel for breaking balls, featuring a low-80s slider paired with an almost slurve-like curveball in the upper 70s. He also throws a mid-80s changeup, while his fastball can reach 95 mph.
Brinham is ranked as the No. 29 overall transfer by Baseball America.
The Gators could also look to secure another vetted left-hander in Stony Brook senior Micah Worley.
Worley started 14 games in 2026, throwing 69.1 innings with 93 strikeouts and a 3.12 ERA. His best performance came April 11 against Hofstra, when he tossed 7.2 scoreless innings while striking out 13.
The 6-foot-5 left-hander features a gyro slider in the low-to-mid 80s that generated a 43% whiff rate in 2026. His fastball sits around 92 mph, has touched 98 and features an aboveaverage ride.
Read the rest online at alligator.org/section/sports.
@colton_veres cveres@alligator.org
Elli McKissock returns to Florida, signs with the Orlando Valkyries
THE FORMER UF VOLLEYBALL PLAYER WILL REJOIN ORLANDO FOR THE 2027 SEASON
By Nicole Scura Sports Writer
For Elli McKissock, the decision to sign with the Orlando Valkyries wasn’t easy. Multiple offers tugged her in different directions, but ultimately, Orlando gave her an offer she could not resist.
The 2027 season marks McKissock's second with the team. She played a critical role in the team’s victory at the franchise’s first Major League Volleyball Championship in 2025.
This past season, McKissock played for the Atlanta Vibe, accumulating 152 digs and 2.34 digs per set across 65 sets played.
With her return to the Valkyries, McKissock has her heart set on one particular goal: winning another championship.
“Every team in this league has something amazing to offer,” McKissock said. “But being in Orlando, getting to play with them and win their first MLV championship, my first season with them is definitely a reason why I wanted to come back. I feel like that was super special for the league and the city of Orlando.”
Besides wanting to win another championship, McKissock said other major factors in her decision stemmed from being close to family and a former teammate.
Her sister, Matti Oliver, recently had another baby, and McKissock said she is excited to be close to her niece and nephew.
The inspiring sisterly bond between McKissock and Oliver runs deep.
The two grew up playing volleyball together and even won a state championship in high school. Like McKissock, Oliver
also played collegiate volleyball. She was an Honorable Mention All-American setter at Georgia Tech and played her fifth year at UCLA.
“She’s always been pushing me,” McKissock said. “She sees the best in me and definitely pushes me to be better than I think that I can be.”
Oliver is not the only familiar face McKissock will be seeing. On the court, McKissock will reunite with her former UF teammate, setter Marlie Monserez.
The Gator alumni are both Windermere natives returning to their hometown for the 2027 season.
Monserez, a 2026 All-Star, played with McKissock at Florida for two years before transferring to UCLA. Now back in business, the duo’s chemistry could prove to be a valuable asset for the Valkyries.
Two years post-grad, McKissock said she still carries lessons she learned at Florida, especially after playing in an atmosphere where her teammates were likely all starters.
“At Florida, learning to be a good teammate, no matter what my role is, definitely helped me in the professional aspect,” McKissock said. “Being able to adapt to any situation and give it my all no matter what my role is, whether that’s in practice or during a game.”
Her four years at Florida prepared her for playing at the professional level, she added, and she still goes back to train and play with the girls at UF.
Florida volleyball didn’t just leave a mark on the libero — she left an unforgettable mark on the program, too.
McKissock still holds several UF titles, including the program record for career digs (2,147) and career sets played (534).
Since playing at Florida, McKissock said the main reason she has grown is her love for the game.
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“At Florida, it was a game that would always be there, but now, professionally, you never know when [it] could be your last time playing,” she said. “I think gratitude for the game and never taking any moment for granted has been a huge shift in my mind.”
After over a decade of playing volleyball, she said she still holds a strong passion and love for the sport.
“Pressure is a privilege, and I truly think that getting to play at the highest level,” McKissock said. “It’s just a privilege every single day to be able to compete at such a high level surrounded by so many amazing girls.”
Following her fifth year at Florida, she was unsure what her future held or if she would get to play volleyball again.
The uncertainty and long offseasons, McKissock said, made her realize how valuable the game is and how much she misses it when it's not there.
And McKissock hasn’t just grown on the court. She’s also created lifelong friendships that will be there even when the game is not.
Last year with the Atlanta Vibe, she had the opportunity to play volleyball again with two of her former teammates – Anna Dixon and Taylor Smith – who will both be bridesmaids in her wedding this November.
McKissock said she hopes to create additional friendships with her teammates on the Orlando Valkyries and dive into the season as a strong leader, ready to secure another championship win.
“I hope we can continue to grow this amazing sport and get a bunch of Florida fans down to watch the games,” she said.
@NicoleScuraa nscura@alligator.org
Follow us for updates For updates on UF athletics, follow us on Twitter at @alligatorSports or online at www.alligator.org/section/sports.
FOOTBALL
Higher season ticket prices leave UF students weighing options
WITH
STUDENT SEASON FOOTBALL TICKET COSTS CLIMBING TO OVER $350, SOME STUDENTS ARE CONSIDERING WHETHER A SEASON PASS IS WORTH THE PRICE
By Lily Perkins Sports Writer
For senior Ally Wright, the decision came down to one question: Was $400 worth six football games?
UF released season student tickets earlier this year at a price about 50% higher than the previous year’s. Coming out to a $376.25 total including fees, the elevated price has raised concerns among students about whether the season ticket package is worth the cost.
After purchasing tickets last season, Wright decided she wouldn’t for her senior year.
“I thought last year was pretty expensive, too,” Wright said. “This year it’s going to be up by $100, and there’s one less game that we’ll be attending, so that was just upsetting.”
Instead of spending Saturdays inside Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, she plans to enjoy game day in other areas of Gainesville: tailgating, spending time with friends or watching from one of the many bars in town. If there’s a game she really wants to attend, she’ll look for an individual ticket.
“There are a lot more students that unfortunately don’t even have the option and don’t even get to consider it because it’s way too much,” Wright said.
Although she’s able to afford
the tickets, she doesn’t believe they’re a smart financial decision.
Wright’s thoughts reflect the calculations many UF students are making after the University Athletic Association raised student football season ticket prices for the fifth consecutive season. Tickets that cost $120 in 2021 now cost $350 before taxes. On average, students pay more than $58 per home game.
Despite the increase, the UAA said demand has remained strong. Nearly 7,000 student season tickets were sold during the first 24 hours when they went on sale in April, and more than 15,000 have since been purchased.
In a statement to The Alligator, the UAA said revenue generated from ticket sales is reinvested into student-athlete programs and the fan experience. The association attributed the increase to rising athletic department expenses, including travel, nutrition, education, mental health resources, sports medicine and facility maintenance.
The UAA also said data from its student ticket resale marketplace, introduced last season, influenced its pricing decisions. While student season tickets cost $250 last year, some students resold enough tickets to earn a profit, signaling demand exceeded the original price.
With the value coming down to personal finances and preference, incoming junior Lana Kostic also found herself struggling with whether to purchase tickets.
A longtime sports fan, Kostic said she enjoys the atmosphere of college football Saturdays. Tailgating with friends and spending a day immersed in the excitement is part of what makes the Fall semester memorable for her.
Two F-18 Hornets fly over Ben Hill Griffin Stadium before kickoff of a football game between the South Florida Bulls and the Florida Gators on Sept. 6, 2025, in Gainesville, Fla.
“Fall semester is so fun because of that,” she said. “Football games are so fun. I think it’s a great way to hang out with everyone and build a community.”
However, Kostic has yet to purchase season tickets. Instead, she said she’s leaning toward buying individual game tickets, likely from friends.
“I don’t know why they would increase [the price],” she said. “I understand if we had a good sea-
son, but we didn’t necessarily have that this year. It was kind of underwhelming.”
For other students, the rising cost hasn’t changed their plans.
Alexander Peterson, an upcoming senior, purchases season tickets as soon as they become available. Missing his final football season at UF never crossed his mind, he said.
“It hurts the pockets a little bit,” Peterson said. “But I understand
that this upcoming year is a super expensive year for our football team.”
One of his motivations for purchasing tickets is the unique energy of a game day in The Swamp. Even after consecutive losing seasons, Peterson said Florida’s football culture remains one of the strongest in college athletics.
“I don’t think there is an environment like this, not just in the SEC, but in all of college football,” he said. “I think that there are very few schools that can pride on the fact that every year you will have sold-out games while the team is 4-8.”
Like many students, Peterson views the season tickets almost as an investment. He said he’s sold at least one game every year and even made a profit in previous seasons by selling tickets for high-demand games like Texas or Florida State.
He acknowledged he was fortunate to be in a financial position where he could afford the purchase. However, he also recognizes many students aren’t.
“I understand that there are countless students who probably wanted to purchase the tickets, and they’re either not going to, or they’re going to buy the pass and then have to sell half the games [tickets],” he said.
Whether students buy season passes, individual tickets or spend Saturdays watching from The Swamp Restaurant, game days remain a defining aspect of campus life. But for students like Wright or Kostic, rising prices may change what tradition looks like for the student body.
