Fourcast May 2025 Issue 6

the

FOURCAST

THE HOCKADAY SCHOOL

11600 WELCH ROAD

AROUND DALLAS Four places to go in Dallas this summer Page 6

hockadayfourcast.org

DALLAS, TX 75229

MAY 16, 2025

HONORING HERITAGE Hockaday celebrates seniors through cultural receptions Page 13

VOLUME 75, ISSUE 6

A YEAR OF DAISY DOMINATION Hockaday sports see success this season Page 16

@hockadayfourcast

news

02 THE HOCKADAY SCHOOL

Balance in the burnout

How to deal with stress and prioritize mental well being

By Caroline Ballotta Senior Reporter

M

ay is Mental Health Awareness Month, an annual observance that was started by Mental Health America in 1949 to highlight the importance of mental wellbeing, reducing stigma and promoting support.

At Hockaday, May is also one of the most stressful times of the year.

AP exams, final projects, tests and end of year wrap-ups create the perfect storm for burnout and make mental health feel more relevant than ever.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) 2023 Youth Risk Behavior survey, more than 40 percent of high school students reported experiencing persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, and nearly one in three teenage girls said they had seriously considered suicide. These numbers are not just statistics—they reflect what students are feeling now.

Upper School Counselor Ashley Kaney-Francis said that while stress is something most students deal with, there’s a point where it becomes something more serious.

“Stress is no longer at a healthy or manageable level if you’re

feeling overwhelmed, immobile, panicked or like you just don’t have the energy to care anymore,” Kaney-Francis said.

Even seemingly simple physical needs—like sleep, hydration and food—can have a big impact on mental wellbeing.

“Sleep, adequate sustenance and water are the foundations of not just physical health, but mental health, too,” Kaney-Francis said.

“Lack of sleep and dehydration can actually increase anxiety, and too much sugar or caffeine can spike your heart rate and create a false sense of anxiety as well.”

Upper School Learning Specialist Jennifer Spradley, who works with students on academic planning and organization in the Learning Center, often sees how school pressure can weigh on mental well-being.

“When you feel overwhelmed, it helps to break tasks into smaller, manageable steps,” Spradley said.

“That makes a big difference in your ability to focus.”

She also encourages students to build study routines that include work and rest.

“A consistent schedule helps reduce anxiety,” Spradley said.

“Even things like five-minute breaks, brain dumps or using

a planner can keep you from feeling stressed.”

While some stress is expected, it’s important to recognize the signs that something more serious may be happening. Students might assume that they are simply tired or unmotivated, when they are actually experiencing anxiety, depression or burnout. Taking time to check in with yourself emotionally and academically can help catch those shifts early.

Kaney-Francis also emphasized that self-care does not have to be complicated.

“Taking care of yourself, your body, your personal space like your room and simple enjoyable tasks like pet care or washing your car or fixing a nice meal or treat can feel grounding, comforting and reenergizing,” Kaney-Francis said. “Choose to interrupt critical, self-defeating talk, whether it’s creeping in during quiet moments or shared loudly among friends.

Sure, it may be true that a situation or assignment is hard or confusing or scary, but it’s also true that you are capable, intelligent, powerful and resourceful.”

Outside of school, national support systems include the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which offers free, 24/7 support by call or

text, and the Crisis Text Line, where you can text HOME to 741741 to speak to a trained crisis counselor.

Hockaday offers several resources for students who are struggling or just need someone to talk to. The counseling department is available for confidential conversations, and the Learning Center provides academic planning and one-on-one help with time management and stress strategies. Students can also talk to advisors or trusted adults, even if they do not know exactly what they are feeling or how to verbalize it.

“There’s no one right way to manage stress," Spradley said.

"The key is finding what works for you and not being afraid to ask for support along the way.”

QR code to mental health resources

Computers replace paper AP Exams enter digital era

By Sophia Salem Business Manager

This spring, College Board is turning the page on traditional AP testing, digitalizing almost all exams. When students walk into the AP testing site in May, they won’t see sheets of paper anymore: they’ll see computers.

In 2025, 28 AP exams are going digital—16 will be administered fully online, while 12 will be hybrid.

Exams like AP Psychology, AP Environmental Science and AP U.S. History are among the first to fully transition to a digital test. College Board says the change is meant to modernize testing, minimize cheating and make the exam process more accessible. Students are asked to bring their own devices, although schools can loan laptops if a student needs one.

“I feel like a digital exam is more pressure,” sophomore Anusha Chowdhary, who is taking the AP Computer Science A exam, said.

“On the digital test, you always see how much time you have left at the top of your screen, and it stresses me out.”

Even though some students feel more pressure when faced with a screen, digitalization also comes with its benefits. When the AP exams were on paper, students handwrote their responses to the free-response questions on the test. Now, with the digital test, it takes much less time for students to type their answers.

“In the context of computer science, I like the fact that it’s going digital because you have to write analog code for the test, and it’s much faster to type it than to handwrite it,” Chowdhary said.

The ability to type instead of handwriting isn’t the only advantage that

comes with digital testing. The shift also streamlines the process for testing accommodations.

“One of the positive things about digital testing is that for students with accommodations, they’re already built into the test,” Nelly Kaakaty, Upper School learning specialist, said. “So now there won’t be as much confusion or room for error.”

However, digital testing means prolonged hours in front of a screen, which can be mentally exhausting and can strain eyesight. For those without accommodations, designated break times for each AP test only last 10 minutes. “I think that something students can do the day of their digital

test is to not be on your screen so much in the morning if you can and get some sunlight,” Kaakaty said. “We would recommend this at any time, but especially if you’re about to have to spend a few hours seated and taking a test that’s on the screen.”

The new age of AP exams has sparked discourse, but in general, it has received positive feedback.

Tests like the PSAT and SAT are already digital, so sophomores, juniors and seniors have already experienced online testing for major exams.

“Students do talk about it and most seem like they're excited about it. They like that they don’t have to write as much, which can kind of relieve some stress too,” Kaakaty said. “It seems like overall, people aren’t nervous about it being digital, especially because they had a PSAT that was digital, so they’ve had exposure to an online standardized test before.”

GRAPHIC COURTESY OF SOPHIA SALEM

03

May 16 2025

Taxes and cuts, not tax cuts

Trump administration politics affect Hockaday community

By Katie Ma News Editor

T

he 1,328 miles between Dallas and Washington D.C. can make the messy reality of politics feel far away as it normally takes a long time to feel the effect of policies and bills.

However, President Donald Trump’s tariffs and funding cuts have been the exception.

A tariff is a tax on imported goods designed to make foreign products more expensive and thus encourage domestic purchases. On Feb. 1, Trump signed an executive order that placed a base 10 percent tariff on all imported goods.

He has also placed additional tariffs on various countries which will go into effect later in the year. By April 10, the tariff on China was up to 145 percent.

Junior Sasha Kitson has owned HerbalKiwi, a small electronic commerce business that sells personalized items like soaps and candles, since she was in seventh grade. Kitson felt the impact of the tariffs immediately.

prices [of the tariffs] hit now on Amazon with the stuff I buy there,” Kitson said. “I’m definitely going to have to start pivoting suppliers soon, I think before the 90 day lift comes off.”

Bookstore manager Dara Williams feels similarly about goods increasing in price “Because I haven't placed any orders in the last month or two, I haven't noticed anything other than food prices [increasing], but that’s just been kind of consistent over the past few years,” Hockaday t-shirts are manufactured in Honduras.

Williams said. tremendously more expensive, by five or six The bookstore features brands like Nike dollars, for example, I’m going to have to bump and Pentel, up the prices a couple dollars.” which are In addition to tariffs, Hockaday community manufactured members are feeling the effects of funding abroad. Williams cuts to research projects. typically A Hockaday alumna conducting research places orders at a medical research institution, who will be for apparel in identified by the pseudonym Lily Wilson due August and to concerns about commenting publicly, was December, shocked to find out her research funding had so current been cut. merchandise “[We are] a research powerhouse, and to has not hear that NIH [The National Institutes of Health] been impacted. funding was being suspended was so scary,” “We do Wilson said. try to keep “I think some competitive people can pricing,” I’m definitely forget that [we Williams said. are] more than going to have “If you go to a hospital. to start pivoting just a Target or a There are so Walmart, obviously they get a better margin on suppliers soon.” many different everything because they’re ordering in large labs that are quantities while we’re ordering in much smaller Sasha Kitson '26 doing cuttingquantities. That’s where we don’t get the best edge research bang for our buck.” to find cures for Williams hopes that bookstore prices will be different diseases and so much more.” able to stay the same even with tariffs.

Top officials at the program have directed “I’m hopeful that we don’t have many items researchers to continue their work and with a large sales tax increase and that we can promised to support them through the funding suspension. The principal investigator (PI) of Wilson’s lab has also continued to apply for different grants to support their lab. Due to this, Wilson’s daily routine and research have not changed significantly.

“I think we currently have all of our funding since the NIH was reinstated,” Wilson said. “But I know that my lab’s PI is applying for more grants because they believe that is the best way to show the government that this funding is important to research.”

In the meantine, Hockaday students have begun to prepare to change their plans after graduation.

"I've seen a lot of my friends have their research cut and their jobs cut," Kitson said. "I'm also a little more hesitant to study abroad in the future as well."

“

Bookstore highlighters come from Mexico and Japan.

“I was definitely worried, because even though a lot of my materials are sourced in the U.S., I still use a lot of companies obviously still source from China,” Kitson said. “For example, the soap dishes I put in some of my gifts are originally sourced from China, so those tariffs hit me hard.”

Kitson originally planned to launch a new product line with items from the Māori tribe in New Zealand but scrapped the idea because the tariffs made it uneconomical.

“The prices of my goods will definitely go up, which is not the best for consumers because I try to keep my prices pretty low,” Kitson said.

Additionally, she has to seriously consider changing suppliers for materials.

“Over the course of the past few years, everything Tote bags are made in Massachussets. has gotten more expensive. But I’m starting to see the

just keep pricing the same as it is and just kind of eat the increase,” Williams said. “But if something is

PHOTOS COURTESY OF KATIE MA

04 THE HOCKADAY SCHOOL

ARTS &LIFE

Musical milestones

Students are nominated for theater awards

By Emily McLeroy Managing Editor

S

potlights brightly shining on the stage, junior Jessie Moran and senior Georgia Fuller take bows at the end of Hockaday Theatre Company’s final performance of “Into the Woods.”

For her performance as both Rapunzel’s Prince and the Wolf, Moran was nominated for Outstanding Lead Performer in Broadway Dallas’s High School Musical Theater Awards (HSMTA). Fuller was nominated for Outstanding Featured Performer for her performance as Cinderella’s Stepmother.

HSMTA sends representatives to musicals throughout Dallas- Fort Worth (DFW) who take notes about their opinions of the performance and announce the nominations after committee discussions. Over 80 schools and around 3,000 students participated this year.

“There’s a lot of talent in DFW, and musical theater has become hugely popular,” Upper School Theater Director Jeremy Hays said. “So,

Fuller and actors perform during “Into the Woods.”

to be recognized with a nomination for an award is a huge honor.”

This is Hockaday’s first year participating in the awards process.

At the awards ceremony on May 17, students and high schools nominated for individual or group awards perform parts of their shows in a Tony-like production.

“It’s a really big production with professional lights, sound and set,” Hays said. “It's an awesome opportunity for high school kids to work with cool technical aspects of theater and various professionals.”

To prepare for her performance at the awards ceremony, Moran has been rehearsing rigorously.

“We rehearse every weekend, working with professionals and choreographing new dances,” Moran said. “It’s like a whole new show.”

She is participating in a medley with other students nominated for the same award, where they will all perform together while still highlighting their individual songs.

“I will perform 32 bars of my song, and the other performers will sing and dance with me on my song,” Moran said. “Then I’ll do the same for them.”

Additionally, the nominees must participate in another round of judging called final adjudication before the awards ceremony. They will perform the requested song from the role for which they were nominated and then perform an additional solo to a panel of judges.

"The winners get to go to the Jimmys, which is held in New York City,” Moran said. “It’s a 12day event where the winner will get to perform, which is exciting, and it’s like the Tonys but for high school.”

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THEMOMONES.COM

Moran with another actor playing Rapunzel’s Prince

Fuller will not be attending the awards ceremony since it conflicts with her graduation, so another “Into the Woods” cast member will accept the award in her place if she wins.

“There are so many wonderful shows and students across the Dallas area, and we are competing against thousands of very highly skilled actors and crew members,” Fuller said.

“I’m beyond thankful for the nomination. I’ve been in love with this soundtrack for years, especially with songs like ‘Agony’ and ‘Last Midnight’. I was also very excited to spend one last musical doing what I love with the people I love.”

05

May 16 2025

A lifetime in the meadow

Class of 2025 Lifers prepare to end their Hockaday journey

By Sarah Moskowitz Copy Editor

B

ows and jumpers in Lower School.

Plaid skirts and Williamsburg in Middle School. High school dances and Ring Day. Nearly concluding their 14 and 15 year journeys at Hockaday, the 26 “Lifers” in the Class of 2025 prepare to walk across Graduation Terrace for the 111th Commencement. Lifers, as they are known in the Hockaday community, have attended Hockaday since Pre-Kindergarten.

Seniors Peyton Gentry, Hannah Coats and Anne Cahoon are among this group.

PeYtoN

Gentry, who has been at Hockaday for 15 years, believes that being a Lifer makes it more difficult to leave Hockaday.

“Being a Lifer makes me a lot more sentimental,” Gentry said. “I’m ready to leave, but Hockaday is all I have known for the last 15 years of my life. It will be a big adjustment, and it is strange to think about not coming back here next year.”

For Coats, Hockaday has been her home for the past 18 years. Because her mother worked on campus, Coats attended the Child Development Center (CDC), starting when she was just two months old, until she became a Pre-K student at Hockaday.

“I have some of my fondest memories from the CDC, and it gave me a foundation of what Hockaday was about,” Coats said. “Because my mom worked in the Administration Hallway, I met all the admin when I was really little, and I was able to grow connections with everyone.”

Over a decade later, Coats recalls her earliest moments at Hockaday, including elements of the application process and her first day of Pre-K. “When I was applying to Hockaday, I remember going to a testing place and having to spell my name and identify farm animals and colors,” Coats said. “On my first day of Pre-K, my mom and I got to school really early, and I took pictures by all of the iconic places.”

When Cahoon reflects on her 15-year journey at Hockaday, she remembers beloved moments in Primer and Lower School traditions.

“In Primer, I remember being sick when we were supposed to make beanie babies, so my teacher let me come in with my mom to make mine,” Cahoon said. “I used to love Rotunda Rocks and Return to Your Roots in Lower School.”

For Coats, Return to Your Roots held unique importance, as she participated in the ceremony both as a fourth grader and as a senior. In fourth grade, Coats helped introduce the seniors, and as a senior, she got to take a trip down Lower School memory lane.

“I was a speaker at Return to Your Roots in fourth grade, and it was funny to sit as a senior and think about how I was one of the people announcing,” Coats said. “Going back to Lower School was so much fun, and I loved getting to be with the group of Lower Schoolers again.”

During their time at Hockaday, Lifers have witnessed the ways in which the school has changed architecturally.

“I still remember the old theater, and when there used to be portable classrooms for the science buildings,” Gentry said. “In first grade, we got to write words we would want to see every day, and they ended up being put around the pendulum.”

When reflecting on her experience as a Lifer, Cahoon feels grateful for the lifelong memories she has made here.

“As a Lifer, you have a full experience, and I barely had anything negative to say in my senior exit interview because I can recognize the good environment and see the experience in the big picture,” Cahoon said.

If Gentry, Cahoon and Coats could relive their Hockaday experience, they agreed that their only adjustment would be to make sure to cherish every moment.

“If I could give advice to myself as a Pre-K student, I would say to not take things for granted,” Gentry said. “I would want to say that there is a reason for everything, to listen to people who know a little more than you and to use your time wisely and enjoy things while you have them.”

Coats wishes she could talk to her Pre-K

AnNe

HaNnAh

self with her current perspective.

“I would say to follow my heart and do what I love to do,” Coats said. “I would tell myself to stay true to my path and what I want, and to make meaningful connections along the way knowing that everything will work out in the end.”

Preparing for the next chapter of her life, Gentry reflects on the elements of Hockaday that made her time here so precious.

“I will miss the people the most, because you can go anywhere, but if you don’t have a good community behind you, it’s hard,” Gentry said. “Hockaday has taught me to persevere, speak up for myself, try new things and put myself out there while stepping outside of my comfort zone, which I can apply to any aspect of my life in the future.”

On May 17, Gentry, Cahoon and Coats will sit in the front row at Commencement as they celebrate the ceremonial end to their years in the Meadow.

When thinking about what the future holds, Cahoon said she feels a mix of excitement about what is ahead and sadness about leaving Hockaday.

“It is conflicting to leave because I am ready to move on, but I have been here so long and I have known no other thing except for Hockaday,” Cahoon said.

For Coats, leaving Hockaday feels bittersweet, but knowing that she will always have the lessons and memories she cultivated at Hockaday helps ease the transition.

“Graduating makes me sad because I have been here my whole life, but also happy that I have been able to experience my 18 years of life here,” Coats said. “Being a Lifer has shaped me into who I am today, and I don’t know what I would do without Hockaday. I will take my education and growing up with courtesy and character with me, and I am proud that I went to Hockaday.”

PHOTOS COURTESY OF PEYTON GENTRY, ANNE CAHOON AND HANNAH COATS

06 THE HOCKADAY SCHOOL

ARTS &LIFE

Dallas destinations Four places to go in Dallas this summer

By Mary Elise Estess Opinions Editor

If you are looking to try something new this summer, puppy yoga is the perfect activity. Spend time with adorable puppies while also moving through a relaxing yoga flow class. Located only 16 minutes from Hockaday, Puppies and Yoga is the most popular puppy yoga spot in Dallas. By combining flow yoga and playful puppies, it makes for the ultimate indoor activity. Grab a friend and book a class at Puppies and Yoga for the most photo-worthy workout around.

Pickleball’s popularity continues to grow as we head into the summer months. Make your way onto the court this summer and spend time playing with friends and family. There are dozens of pickleball venues across Dallas that make for accessible summer day destinations.

The Sandy Pickle and DFW Indoor Pickleball are both great options, but there are also free public courts at Cole Park and Churchill Park. No matter where you play the game, pickleball is an amazing way to stay active and have fun this summer.

The Fort Worth Stockyards are an idyllic destination for a quick summer day trip. Located 45 minutes west of Dallas, the weekly rodeos and famous barbecue at the Fort Worth Stockyards are well worth the drive. It’s a fun summer spot full of Texas charm and a variety of stores and experiences. From watching the twice-daily cattle drive to grabbing a bite at one of the 46 restaurants, there is so much to do in this historic town.

Ice cream is a summer essential, but you can elevate your summer break by getting a sweet treat and an experience all in one. Creamistry, a quick 13-minute drive from Hockaday, is an ice cream shop that makes delicious ice cream with a cool twist.

Creamistry uses liquid nitrogen to freeze their ice cream, resulting in a unique sweet treat and a fun experience while you watch them make your order. Why settle for boring ice cream when you can get chemistry infused ice cream at Creamistry?

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MARY ELISE ESTESS

07

May 16 2025

Roots, receptions and recognition

Seniors celebrate childhood memories, culture and academic honors

By Audrey Liu Multimedia Editor

PHOTOS COURTESY OF AUDREY LIU

This spring, Hockaday’s Class of 2025 honored both the past and the present through a series of meaningful senior traditions. Through shared memories, food and community, these spring traditions offered seniors a way to honor where they came from and reflect on who they have become.

Return to Your Roots On April 3, seniors who began their journey in Hockaday’s Lower School were welcomed back for an afternoon of nostalgia and celebration. Fourth graders read aloud heartfelt memories submitted by the seniors and their families, sparking laughter and a few tears. The walk down memory lane reminded many how far they’ve come and how much Hockaday has shaped them.

Reflecting on the experience, senior Caroline Poloski shared the advice she would give her younger self.

“One thing I would tell my lower school self would be to work hard but always save time to have fun,” Poloski said. “It’s important to get good grades and stay focused on schoolwork but always make sure to leave time to laugh with family and friends.”

Lifers return to their roots with lower school teachers Ms. Smaw and Ms. Trenary.

Senior boards at return to your roots day

Senior Heritage Receptions Throughout late April, Hockaday hosted the Eighth Annual Latin and Hispanic Senior Heritage Reception, Seventh Annual Asian and Pacific Islander Senior Heritage Reception and 20th Annual Black and African Senior Heritage Reception. These heartfelt gatherings highlighted the diverse cultural identities of our graduating class. With tables full of traditional dishes and rooms filled with family, faculty and friends, each reception felt personal and powerful. Underclassmen introduced each senior, who then shared personal reflections thanking family, friends and teachers who helped guide them.

Senior Olivia Qiu shared the importance of celebrating heritage at the annual receptions.

“I loved the speeches the most,” Qiu said. “It reminded me how meaningful it is to connect with others who share my heritage.”

Seniors receive awards at the Senior Honors Assembly.

Senior Honors Assembly On May 6, the Senior Honors Assembly recognized the hard work, leadership and contributions of the Class of 2025. From academic excellence to service and spirit, students were honored for their impact on the Hockaday community.

Senior Liz Steger was a recipient of the Nola Kenning History Award and the Orchestra Award.

“My favorite part of the assembly was cheering on all my friends as they won awards!” Steger said.

Latin and Hispanic Senior Heritage Reception

FEATURES

08 THE HOCKADAY SCHOOL

The Board, The Cause, The Week

Hockaday's Environmental Week and Board raise eco-awareness

By Aanya Naini Staff Writer

T

his April, students engaged in the first annual Hockaday Environmental Week, a celebration focused on creating a fun and engaging student view of sustainability and educating on environmental responsibility.

“The purpose of this week is to spread the message of the Environmental Board here at Hockaday and to inform students about their environmental impact,” Environmental Board cochair Kashmira Kuloor said. “We want them to know what they can do to enhance sustainability and reduce practices that are harmful for the environment.”

As an annual global event, Earth Week serves as an important celebration of the environment and the planet, raising awareness for critical issues and promoting action to create a cleaner, more ecofriendly future. Common activities throughout the week include the creation of art and neighborhood clean-ups as communities work to educate individuals about their roles in preventing the dangers of climate change, pollution, deforestation, biodiversity loss and more.

Kuloor and junior Mimi Davison serve as the co-chairs for the Environmental Board and worked together for weeks alongside other board members to plan a diverse range of educational Earth Week activities for Upper, Lower and Middle School.

Davison decorates the hallway.

From April 21-25, for example, Upper School advisories engaged in a BioBlitz Competition, where each advisory used the iNaturalist app to take pictures and identify different species around campus.

The winning advisory, Hulbert/ Arnold, found the greatest diversity of plant and animal life and won Chick-Fil-A for themselves as the prize.

Other Earth Week fun included a collaborative art project—where

students signatures created a collage in the Upper School hallway—and a school-wide nature Pinterest board. The Environmental Board also hosted educational sustainability and environmental action workshops with Lower and Middle School.

One of the Environmental Board’s specific goals for Earth Week was to increase awareness for recycling on campus.

Though it seems like common Student photographs a flower for BioBlitz. knowledge, myths relating to the implementation of voluntary recycling have been one of the “Meat-Less Mondays” and the more common misconceptions reduction of single-use containers circling the school and utensils.

“Even the board initially Next year, the Board also thought that we didn’t recycle, plans to bring in speakers on but we got confirmation that Hockaday does, though obviously sustainability topics in different fields and hopes to extend their it’s a bit limited,” Davison said. mission to the Dallas Independent “We’d like to expand our efforts School District through to also include specific paper community outreach. recycling bins so we can reuse “Protecting the planet and wastepaper for other things.” being aware of what’s going Davison said the board sees on in our planet allows us as a Environmental Week as only community to highlight what’s the first step in making the going on and what we can do, campus a more eco-friendly and I think that’s really essential,” environment. Future plans for Davison said. the next school year include working with SAGE to reduce the campus carbon footprint and food waste, specifically through PHOTOS COURTESY OF AANYA NAINI

Sawers shapes Klyde Warren Park Hockaday alumna champions downtown Dallas park

By Anika Shah Multimedia Editor

Each day, more than 3,500 Dallas residents visit Klyde Warren Park - grabbing a meal from food trucks, attending a yoga class or playing frisbee with a friend.

Behind the scenes of this city park is Kit Sawers ‘85, who serves as president and CEO of the park.

In her role, Sawers oversees every aspect of the park, including programming, fundraising, longterm planning, partnerships, operations and more. Her work ensures that the park remains free, accessible and welcoming to the over 1.3 million people who visit annually.

Because of the many aspects of Sawers’ job, no day looks the same.

“There’s no such thing as a typical day,” Sawers said. “Some days I’m meeting with city officials or potential sponsors. Others, I’m helping plan major events or doing interviews with press.”

Sawers did not take a conventional path into nonprofit leadership. After graduating from Hockaday in 1985, she attended the University of Virginia, where she majored in English and later went on to law school at Southern

Methodist University, though she realized her interests lay elsewhere.

“I went to law school at SMU knowing I was more interested in event planning, marketing and

Kit Sawers '85

fundraising than practicing law," Sawers said. “Over time, that led me to jobs that combined all three, like overseeing the events for the Super Bowl in Dallas.”

When the opportunity to lead Klyde Warren Park came along in 2019, it felt like a natural next step for Sawers.

“It includes everything I love: family-friendly activities. In 2026, creating experiences, building Dallas will host several FIFA World community and making an impact Cup matches with Klyde Warren in the city where I grew up,” Park serving as a major venue for Sawers said. fan events and grand celebrations.

Since its opening in 2012, Klyde Despite the big events that the Warren Park has become a model park hosts, what Sawers is most for urban public spaces. Built proud of is something simpler. over Woodall Rodgers Freeway, it “I’m proud that the park has connects Uptown to Downtown remained open, welcoming and Dallas and serves as a “town free to all,” Sawers said. “It’s rare to square." But what many park-goers find a space like this in the middle may not realize is that the park is of a city; no tickets, no gates, entirely funded by donations. just beautiful green space and “We raise every dollar to programming for everyone.” operate and program the space,” PHOTOS COURTESY OF Sawers said. “It’s not cheap to KIT SAWERS AND ANIKA SHAH offer everything for free. I often compare us to PBS; we rely on generous support from individuals, foundations and companies to help us underwrite free programming.”

This spring, the park will host the Choctaw Cover-to-Cover Music Festival, which will feature a full day of Families splash at Klyde Warren. live music, food and

09

April 16 2025

Modeling metaphors

Hockaday writers explore their literary passion

By Sophie Cho News Editor

T

here are hundreds of names that line the shelves of the Hockaday library, all published authors with work released into the world. Now, Hockaday students are joining their ranks, whether through publishing poetry and novels or submitting to nationwide competitions.

Golden Liars Earlier this year, sophomore Natalia Salem published “Golden Liars,” a book she worked on for four years. “Golden Liars” is a fantasy novel about a group of assassins with supernatural abilities, a secret protected by the government.

Taking inspiration from her own life and beloved books such as “The Hunger Games,” the idea grew into a project spanning many of her middle and high school years.

“My greatest inspiration comes from other books, authors, and texts, and sometimes even other photos or moments in life,” Salem said.

Salem poses with her book "Golden Liars."

Through her writing, she includes observations she makes about the world around her, or ideas she reads in other works. Through her writing, she hopes to spread creative enjoyment to other people.

“By writing, you’re able to convey certain messages and emotions that millions and billions of people are able to access,” Salem said.

Currently, she is working on her next book, which she hopes to publish before she graduates from Hockaday.

Escape from reality Inspired by historical fiction, junior Louella Jacobsen is working on a novel that she hopes to publish in the fall.

“Ruta Sepetys’s books were some of the first books I really loved,” Jacobsen said. “They just inspired me.”

The war-related themes of Sepetys’s books have manifested in Jacobsen’s novel as a futuristic, dystopian, war-centered plot.

“I decided to do a dystopian genre because it’s kind of a little escape from reality,” Jacobson said. “There’s so much freedom in writing things yourself because you get to pick what happens.”

She has reached over 20,000 words since starting her draft, and is aiming for 40,000 by summer. Writing a chapter a week, she’s become very invested in the characters and plot.

“I love doing this,” Jacobson said. “I have a lot of fun with it.”

An emotional outlet While some authors use writing as an escape, junior Mischa Rutledge uses it as an outlet to journal her emotions and opinions.

“Writing in the form of poetry makes it easier for me to get my thoughts out,” Rutledge said.

“I’ll write small poems almost every day.”

Rutledge has had poetry published through competitions such as the Poetry Society of Texas and discovered her love for writing through an English class poetry assignment during her freshman year.

She likes to write about more emotional topics, many of them rooted in her own life.

“I don’t know every perspective of the issue, or whatever I’m writing about,” Rutledge said.

“Poetry requires me to look at something from every angle and get a more holistic view on things, which I really appreciate.”

She wants to keep writing poetry in the future, in hopes of gaining insight into herself and connecting with others.

“I want to continue sharing my work with people who it might help,” Rutledge said.

Words for the soul Sophomore Carolyn Mitchell is a rising poet who views her writing process as her way of making sense of her own life.

"I love writing poetry because it's easier for me to discover and express myself on paper rather than out loud," Mitchell said. "Poetry especially is a more socially acceptable way for me Mitchell holds a book of poetry. to ask the strange questions and just allow myself to be reckless, curious and weird."

She regularly submits poetry to competitions and publications, such as the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards.

Mitchell has been writing since Lower School and looks up to poets like Richard Siken and Ada Limon. Her sweet spot for writing typically involves coffee ice cream, a giant blanket and a bit of inspiration.

“Writing is a lot of staring at screens and then a mad dash of typing,” Mitchell said. “There’s not really a sane, understandable process."

However, Mitchell has found much magic in the madness.

“Writing has had a huge impact on me,” Mitchell said. “When I write, it helps me figure out why I think what I think and why I feel what I feel; it’s added a whole new facet to my life.”

Writing has been able to help Hockaday authors process, escape, and tune in to their lives and emotions. It has also inspired them to help others see ideas and issues in a new light. For these writers, the journey doesn’t stop at one competition or work.

“I would like to eventually publish a book of poetry,” Mitchell said. “I don’t know how long that will take, but I know writing will definitely remain an integral part of my life.”

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SOPHIE CHO AND CAROLYN MITCHELL

10 THE HOCKADAY SCHOOL

The tan

By Siena Ebert | Arts and Life Editor

dangers of unprotected sun exposure Tanning may seem like a relaxing way to rejuvenate your skin's natural glow, but in reality, poses the threat of long term health ramification.

As the summer quickly approaches, the Hockaday halls are buzzing with talk about swimsuits, beach vacations and, especially, the UV index. While lounging by the pool under the midday sun might sound like the perfect summer escape, it is important to consider the long-term health effects of prolonged sun exposure, especially without proper protection.

Scientific research has shown that UV rays can cause significant damage to the skin, even when a sunburn is not visibly present.

“UV radiation is a known carcinogen, and exposure increases one's risk of developing basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, even if sunburn does not occur,” board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Becca Fernandes ‘96, said. “UV exposure that results in sunburn increases one's risk of melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer. In addition,

sunburn has been shown to alter expression of tumor suppressor genes, increasing the risk that sun damaged skin develops into skin cancer.”

Beyond cancer, frequent tanning and sun exposure can also drastically affect the way your skin ages and looks over time. What may feel like a temporary bronzed glow can lead to longterm changes in skin texture and tone.

“Chronic sun exposure accelerates skin aging—what we call photo-aging.

It results in wrinkles, discoloration, uneven skin tone and a leathery texture,” board-certified dermatologist Dr. Seemal R. Desai, a Hockaday parent who also recently completed his term as the president of the American Academy of Dermatology, said.

“These changes are distinct from natural aging

and largely preventable.”

Fortunately, if you're seeking that sun-kissed look, there are safer ways to get it. In recent years, self-tanners and spray tans have become popular options that can give your skin a warm tone without dangerous UV rays.

Products like gradual self-tanning lotions offer a realistic tanned look and are generally considered safe when used correctly. These products work by temporarily darkening the outermost layer of skin using dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a sugar-based ingredient that reacts with amino acids on the skin's surface.

“Self-tanners and spray tans are much safer alternatives if someone wants a tanned look,” Desai said. “These do not involve UV radiation and do not increase cancer risk, though they still require sunscreen use for protection whenever you are exposed to the sun.”

Tanning Myths

Many common beliefs about the benefits of tanning are based on myths. These misunderstandings not only misguide people but can also lead to long-term health risks, especially when it comes to skin damage and sun safety.

#1 You need sunlight to get enough Vitamin D

#2 A “base tan” protects you from sunburn

Many people believe that prolonged sun exposure is necessary for adequate vitamin D production, but experts warn this comes with significant risks.

“When your skin is exposed to UVB radiation, it makes Vitamin D by converting a protein called 7-DHC in the skin to Vitamin D3, the active form of Vitamin D,” Fernandes said. “Unfortunately, this UVB radiation also increases the risk of developing skin cancer.”

Although this process might sound beneficial, the dangers associated with UV exposure far outweigh the benefits of sunlight alone.

“There's a misconception that sun is the only way to get vitamin D, which isn't true—we have safer alternatives,” Desai said. “Vitamin D is important for bone and immune health, but it can be safely obtained through diet and supplements without the risks of UV exposure."

Building a “base tan” before a vacation or summer break is believed to be essential to developing a long-lasting tan, but it's more harmful than helpful. A base tan is often thought to act as a protective layer that prevents burning during extended sun exposure, but dermatologists strongly disagree.

“There is no such thing as a "base tan" reducing your risk of subsequent sunburn,” Fernandes said. “Once the skin color changes as a result of exposure to UV radiation, this is an indication that damage has been done. Damage from UV radiation is cumulative, and while the skin has the ability to repair some damage, at a certain tipping point, the damage overwhelms the body's ability to repair it, and the risk of skin cancer increases.”

11

n trap

r and Anderson Rhodus | Sports Editor

Perspectives from around the world The cultural perspective of skin tone is deeply rooted in societal norms and historical structures, shaping vastly different beauty standards across the globe.

United States

Intentionally getting “bronze” skin has long been the societal beauty norm, reinforced through social media. “[It] is often linked with wealth and having an active lifestyle,” junior Eleanor Bell said. “I see tan celebrities, models and influencers."

Bell said she tries to limit how long she stays outside.

"I use sunscreen even when tanning," she said. "It's a compromise, I want the look but I can't overdue it."

Nigeria

In Nigeria maintaining a lighter skin tone is often associated with beauty and social superiority.

“Being lighter is viewed as being virtuous, and often those with a darker skin tone are associated with the working class,” senior Anjy Fadairo said. “You often see lighter-skin Africans working in more upper-scale careers, such as being a receptionist; whereas people with darker skin are pushed to jobs that don’t require being seen as much.”

Fadairo said some Africans bleach their skin and avoid sun exposure altogether.

“In the Nigerian community, there is a huge culture surrounding skin-bleaching products and not being in the sun in general to be closer to Eurocentricity,” Fadairo said. “Because I am outdoors a lot during track season, I have many personal instances of relatives remarking how my skin has gotten so dark.”

Fadairo emphasizes how even just listening to people of different cultural and ethnic backgrounds will create more common knowledge.

“I hope more people from different African nations feel more comfortable to share their stories and provide more context for the nuances that exist within this space,” Fadairo said.

China

In East Asia, this same theme and beauty standard for lighter skin continues. Senior Rayna Li, Asian Student Association (ASA) President, said she sometimes struggles to find the balance between both Eastern and Western ideals of conventional attractiveness.

“In America, a lot of people compliment me on being tan, since I am outside playing tennis a lot. I do take it as a compliment; however, it is almost like I’m always in a state of conflict because my family has contradicting preferences,” Li said. “I try not to let it bother me as much now, because each person is so much more than their skin color.”

India

In India, lighter skin has historically been associated with higher social status, wealth and virtue. This preference has been deeply ingrained in the culture, especially through the media and traditional beauty standards.

"In the West, tanning is seen as trendy, which is almost the opposite of how things were and still are in many parts of India,” junior Anika Gopal said.

“Growing up in an Indian household, I always noticed that lighter skin was often seen as more desirable since it has been woven into how beauty was traditionally portrayed, especially in the media."

While these views are still common in many regions around the world, they’re starting to shift. More people are recognizing and celebrating different types of beauty, not just the traditional standards. Whether it’s embracing darker skin, freckles or other unique features, the definition of beauty is moving towards greater inclusivity.

“I think things are slowly changing,” Gopal said. “People are starting to celebrate more diverse forms of beauty, not just in India but around the world. Having open conversations about where our standards come from is the first step toward inclusivity.”

GRAPHICS COURTESY SIENA EBERT

Dr. Becca Fernandes’s SPF Tips: Use an SPF of 30 or higher on a daily basis.

Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you'll be doing an outdoor activity later or if you've gotten wet or been sweating.

UV radiation penetrates clouds and even glass, so if it's a cloudy day or if you'll be indoors near a window, including a car window, you still need protection.

12

FEATURES

THE HOCKADAY SCHOOL

The heart behind the desk

Ms. Luna shares her legacy of wisdom and dedication to Hockaday

By Emilie Illum Photo, Graphic and Castoff Editor

T

he phone rings as she carefully watches the security footage. She says a quick “welcome” before opening the door to the incoming visitor from her desk in the LLARC, Hockaday’s main entrance. A split second later, the phone rings again.

Now, she opens the door for a student who forgot their badge.

Since joining Hockaday around 19 years ago, Ms. Elsa Luna has become more than the face at the entrance. She is the heart of the school’s daily flow—welcoming guests, guiding students, managing security, opening gates, fielding calls, and providing a steady presence in a constantly moving environment.

Luna takes calls behind the desk.

“I’ve always said that it is like Animal Kingdom here,” Luna said.

“You see all kinds of random.”

But amid the bustling energy, she finds purpose. With every phone call answered and every door opened, Luna brings warmth and stability to the school community. Some may overlook the complexity of her role, but Ms. Luna handles the pressure with poise.

“Some people don’t see that this is a really hard job and can be very stressful,” Luna said. “When people don’t use their badges, it makes it harder on me.”

In addition, she also oversees opening doors. A simple mistake like a student forgetting their ID badge adds unnecessary stress. Despite the chaos, she has a love and deep respect for the community.

“I like everything about Hockaday: the mission, what it stands for, our students, parents,” Luna said. “Anybody that has anything to do with Hockaday, I love.”

Having witnessed nearly two decades of evolution at the school, Luna

Daisy degrees

recognizes the rules are looser today.

“I feel like we’re losing what Hockaday used to be like,” Luna said. “By that I mean, a lot of our rules and policies have changed. Not that it’s bad, but everything is so different now.”

However daunting these permanent changes may be, Luna has learned a valuable lesson.

Luna smiles behind her computer.

“This whole world she takes pride in doing her job changes every day,” she said. exceptionally well.

“Don’t get discouraged. Take it as “[My job] is very rewarding to it comes. Embrace it. It’s all for the me,” she said. “I think I do a very good of everyone, even if we may good job at what I do with very not see it at the moment.” little supervision. I know what is She said her journey expected of me, and I do it at at Hockaday has not only 110 percent.” strengthened her skills but also her Through her presence and sense of self. dedication, Ms. Elsa Luna reminds “I feel empowered,” Luna said. us of the value of consistency, “Just because you’re a woman kindness and resilience. She has doesn’t mean you should always created a legacy not only through take ‘no’ and walk away. We’re her work, but through the way powerful, we’re educated and we she uplifts everyone who walks have a lot to offer to this world and through Hockaday’s doors. to our community.”

Her advice to others is simple It is this quiet confidence and yet powerful: “Take everything like unshakable work ethic that has a learning day.” made Ms. Luna an integral part of PHOTOS COURTESY OF Hockaday. Independent and driven, EMILIE ILLUM

Hockaday alumnae help current seniors with college transition

By Aadhya Yanamadala Copy Editor

of 2022 to the Class of 2024. EveryFrom teachers like Caroline Robb ’07 to administrators like Lisa one was eager to offer thoughtful perspectives on their schools and Culbertson ’96, Hockaday alumhow they differ from Hockaday life. nae have dedicated their efforts to helping current Daisies succeed Once their school lists narrows and juniors transition to seniors, in their academic and personal journeys. However, even students begin beyond Welch Road, writing their various alumnae help application esstudents flourish. says—yet anothAs juniors begin the er step where college research proalumnae have cess, College Counseling been supportive. provides a list of alum“When I was nae contacts at the varapplying to NYU, ious schools a student I talked to Madmight be considering. die Chen ‘24 and Juniors are encouraged Phoebe Chen to reach out to learn ’24, and they more about prospective really helped universities and consider with my appliwhether they might be a cation,” senior Blue-Baron visits Cornell. good fit.

Anya Ahuja said.

“While I was researching schools “Phoebe ended up actually reading and making my list, I was talking to my essay, and she gave really good some Hockaday alumnae,” senior advice that improved it.”

Alex Blue-Baron said. “They would These ties are just as importtell me about some of the things ant with the different application they liked and didn’t like about the process for athletes undergoing school, and it helped me narrow recruitment. In addition to submitdown where to apply.” ting a traditional application, they The alumnae she reached out to also have additional guidelines and ranged from members of the Class requirements to commit

to a university. ty because they understood the “I did sports with Leena MehenHockaday experience.” dale ’22 and Ayla Sumer ’23, who Choosing a university is where both go to MIT,” the transition step senior Track begins. Seniors must and Field and start easing into life as Cross-Country a college student, in a commit Jordan completely new enviLacsamana said. ronment.

“When I went “That’s where I to my official found talking to alumvisit at the MIT nae to be the most campus, I met helpful,” Blue-Baron up with them. said. “I found a HockaThey pointed out day alumna at Cornell, important people where I’m going, who to say ‘hi’ to and Lacsamana commits to MIT. is in the same major as introduced me to me. She was able to give me their friends on the team.” guidance on which classes to take Once college acceptances arrive, and which professors she liked.” students face the exciting chalOverall, Hockaday alumnae have lenge of choosing between a range been a great resource for the seof schools. Many seniors find that niors as they head into college. talking to alumnae helped them in “I’m super grateful for the condeciding where to spend their next nections Hockaday has given me in four years. this journey,” Blue-Baron said. “Not “When I had to narrow down only did alumnae help me, but they which school I wanted to go to, were also excited to do so. It made talking with the alumnae at those me feel like the Hockaday commuuniversities was invaluable,” nity truly continues Blue-Baron said. “They were able after graduation.” to give me a better picture of what PHOTOS COURTESY OF ALEX BLUElife might be like at the universiBARON and JORDAN LACSAMANA

13

May 16 2025

Honoring heritage

Hockaday celebrates seniors through cultural receptions

By Jessica Boll Staff Writer

A

s the end of the year rolls around, the Hockaday community takes part in several beloved traditions to celebrate our senior class. Alongside Commencement and senior splash day, the senior heritage receptions provided graduating seniors, alumnae and current students a chance to celebrate achievements while connecting back to their culture.

Starting two decades ago as the Black and African Graduation, senior receptions were originally created as an opportunity for families and alumnae to celebrate African American students at the end of high school.

Dr. Tracey Tevis, Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion as well as the main organizer for the current receptions, reflects on their original intention.

“The purpose of the event was to honor the seniors that were graduating while also giving them the space to celebrate their culture,” Tevis said.

Since then, it has both expanded in representation, now including the Latin and Hispanic Student Union (LHSU), Asian Student Association (ASA) and South Asian Student Association (SASA), while also growing in attendee numbers.

“This is an opportunity for the whole community to come out,” Tevis said.

“You don't have to belong to that specific identifier to come celebrate the students in that space.”

At the receptions, seniors and guests share stories about their time at Hockaday and how their cultural identities played a role in their experiences, eat ethnic foods and celebrate their accomplishments with family, friends and other members of the community.

Senior Rayna Li, Asian Student Association president, said she will use it as an opportunity to look back on how being a part of an affinity group community shaped her experience.

"I am definitely going to reflect on my time with ASA because I've been involved for all four years,” Li said. “All of my friends who have been in ASA with me, Mrs. Ismail as a sponsor and just everyone who has supported me,” Li said.

Reflecting on the diverse communities at Hockaday, each senior heritage reception is planned using input from seniors

who share that identity, ensuring their preferences are incorporated into the event.

“I try to be very authentic to each group.” Tevis said.

“We want everyone to feel a sense of pride in their background and know that at Hockaday we see you and value you.”

Senio

o rece Fadair

awl ives sh

tion. recep r io n at se

r Arya a Pha

Gabriela Gaona '25, president of the Latin Hispanic Student Union, said she appreciates the small details, such as food representation, in the receptions.

“They always have nice authentic food that represents all the different Latin American

countries,” Gaona said.

“We had a lot of South American empanadas this year. We have Mexican tacos and sweet bread again.”

Not only do the senior heritage receptions provide an opportunity to celebrate their time at Hockaday, but they also serve as a chance to connect with alumnae affinity groups and inspire younger generations of Hockadaisies.

"Oftentimes you will see Lower and Middle School parents bring their girls out because they want them to see that one day, they’ll be like the seniors,” Tevis said.

Senior Anjy Fadairo, president of the Black Student Union, has been attending the senior receptions since her freshman year.

“We get to select a younger student to speak about us, which is so, so sweet,” Fadairo said.

“I've gone to every single reception, and now it's my turn, which is just really, really exciting.”

dke p os

es wit h her

mom.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF AUDREY LIU

Senior Sunnie Wang poses with her family.

14

THE HOCKADAY SCHOOL

SPORTS

Varsity sports meet social impact Varsity teams take outreach to the courts and fields

By Anya Aggarwal Web Managing Editor

A

s Daisies undertake passing, shooting and dribbling,” their fifth year of social Khatti said. "It’s amazing to see impact in collaboration some of them pick it up with varsity sports, pretty quickly.” several teams have established While most of the programs new opportunities and outreach occur during or after school for initiatives for athletes to engage Dallas ISD Elementary students, with our community. some programs specifically “We noticed that it was not cater to participants with autism, unusual for girls to drop out Down syndrome and other of sports by middle school in neurodevelopmental disabilities. our neighboring schools” said Anika Gopal, varsity tennis Assistant Director of the Institute captain, has participated in the for Social Impact, Laura Laywell, initiative called “ACEing Autism” “So these initiatives really help for years and helped coordinate to keep girls inspired to continue Hockaday and St. Marks varsity pursuing athletics.”

The varsity field hockey (HVFH) team, for example, has maintained a four-year streak, consistently building programming at Foster Elementary that encourages students to explore sports outside those offered at their school.

Gopal poses during tennis session.

Jayna Khatti, HVFH captain and Social Impact Board tennis teams to participate as chair, noted that the programs well. Now that the collaboration is emphasize working with students in place, the program intends to promote bonding, both with the to continue. kids and between teammates.

“It’s an adaptive tennis “We started working in families outreach program that expanded in which we drive together, set to Dallas about six years ago up drill stations together, teach through the efforts of a mom who

has a child with an autismspectrum disorder,” Gopal said. "She formed the Dallas chapter when she realized how beneficial outdoor tennis play was for her son. The group plays at UT Dallas every Saturday morning, but the program is active nationwide.”

For some sports, varsity teams even donate equipment Players break out at the end of session. to DISD schools to sustain their the programs. programs. Both field hockey “We encouraged the and tennis have donated balls, participants not just to talk to sticks and racquets to ensure us, the instructors, but also to the program has enough gear to connect with each other,” Gopal persist from year to year. said. “We’ll play interactive games “Since Foster Elementary that promote inter-player social students had never played field skills and get the kids to step out hockey, it was neat to see them of their shells sometimes.” work with the new equipment and Daisy players can also assist in learn the rules of a completely Special Olympics tournaments in new game,” Khatti said. “Even the spring. if one out of the whole group is “The benefit is so mutual,” inspired to keep going with it, Gopal said. “Our team’s players it’s worthwhile.” already have the skills, but they According to Laywell, get to share it with kids who Hockaday teams engage with might not otherwise get the a multitude of organizations chance to play. We get service including Marsh Middle School, hours of course, but we also Rays of Hope, Heart House, become part of an Semones YMCA, Marcus amazing community.

Elementary, and Bachman Lake.

The social-emotional engagement PHOTOS COURTESY OF among the players remains the ANYA AGGARWAL overarching goal of all

Speed, strategy and squash Hockaday students foster their love for squash

By Ai-Vy Ho Staff Writer

In the four-walled court of squash, senior Anika Kapoor lunges towards the ball with her racquet, swinging it towards the front wall. In early 2020, Kapoor began playing squash after her dad introduced it to her.

“We were at tennis in Brookhaven,” Kapoor said. “My practice got rained out, so my dad took me into the little pro shop where they had racquetball courts.

He taught me how to do it, and I liked it a lot more than tennis.”

Similarly, freshman Maddie Choi transitioned from tennis to squash and began playing at LifeTime Fitness in Plano. Both players soon realized the importance of speed and strategy inherent to the quick game of squash.

“Squash is a lot more fast-paced, and it requires a lot more strategy in some ways,” Kapoor said. “Your opponent could be behind you or anywhere relative to your body. So, you have to be able to know where they are at all times and hit the ball where they’re not.”

A squash match consists of two

players who serve and receive a rubber ball within the four-walled court. Each game ends when one player achieves 11 points, and a player wins after taking three out of five games. During a rally, players take turns hitting the ball and are allowed one bounce before hitting it.

“The objective is to just hit a shot where your opponent can’t get it back or they either hit it out,” Choi said. “And if you do that, you get a point.”

Before matches, Kapoor runs suicide drills and listens to artists such as Charli XCX, while Choi enjoys listening to mindset videos as she stretches.

“I like to listen to wordless, hype songs or podcasts,” Choi said. “I’ve been listening to ‘Trying Not to Care’ by Ashley Corby, and I think it just helps me get mentally prepared.”

The smaller squash community in Dallas requires Kapoor and Choi to often travel out of state to participate in tournaments.

“I practice six days a week

for two hours each day,” Choi said. “All my tournaments are out of state, but there’s some in Houston because squash is really popular there. I normally travel to the Northeast once or twice a month because that is the hub for squash.”

Hoping to build Squash club poses for photo. a greater squash community in her area, Kapoor to spread her interest to Kapoor teaches squash to younger other people, it has taught Choi the children at Life Time Fitness importance of determination and has started her own club, and perseverance.

HockaSquash, composed of “In squash, you need to put 40 members. yourself in the court and not think “I loved starting HockaSquash to about what’s going on outside, introduce squash to more people,” and you just need to keep going,” Kapoor said. “I formed the club in Choi said. “It doesn’t matter if sophomore year, and I advertise you’re down, you can always make it as a way to relieve stress while a comeback and win. I think that learning about a new sport and mentality is good to be able to having fun. We use the little storage apply in school and outside the room in Penson that’s an old court too.” racquetball court and learn basic techniques.”

While squash has allowed PHOTO COURTESY OF ANIKA KAPOOR

15

May 16 2025

LaCrossing through their legacy Success of the lacrosse team suffuses with seasons

By Alina Zheng Sports Editor

D

aily smiles, daisy crowns and most notably, domination mark Hockaday’s lacrosse program. Success graces the team but inherent to their achievements are high expectations, relentless effort and innumerable hours that players spend training and growing their potential.

Under the nine-year leadership of Head Lacrosse Coach Molly Ford Hutchinson, the program has won five Southwest Preparatory Conference (SPC) championships and five state championships as of early May 2025. With a background in playing Division I lacrosse at Georgetown University and competing for the United States Women’s Lacrosse Team, Ford Hutchinson applies her experience to her coaching style, setting high demands for her players.

Combined with her coaching strategies and each player’s personal expectations, the efficiency and effectiveness of each practice are maximized.

Coaches oversee lacrosse warmups prior to game.

“They really are trying to fine tune their craft, so our practices are faster paced,” Ford Hutchinson said. “We’re able to get to that next level as a unit because of the individual work that our players have done in the off-season.”

Though most of the team plays for GRIT, a lacrosse club founded in Dallas, Tufts-committed co-captain Aynalie Charron said not playing club lacrosse should not be a barrier for athletes hoping to try out.

“I think there are so many people who are such great athletes, but they’re too scared to join just because they haven’t played club,” Charron said.

In fact, Ford Hutchinson said that one of the

Charron prepares for a draw control.

biggest factors that differentiates Hockaday lacrosse from other opponents is the ability of the athletes to play multi-sports, which increases their lacrosse IQ. GRIT serves as a platform for players seeking to play in college. With five recruited athletes from the Hockaday Class of 2025, GRIT has

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ALINA ZHENG

played an essential role in their athletic experiences.

“I think GRIT is an outlet for a lot of these players to play at the next level: a source for them to get recruited at the next level,” Ford Hutchinson said.

Being able to practice at GRIT year-round allows players to prepare for the Hockaday season, where the coaches continue setting high standards for their players. To aid athletes in achieving Flanagan runs to goal minutes before game. those expectations, all very close on and off the field, and I think that Ford Hutchinson offers comes from our coaches all the way down to us. them advice to burgeon the team’s We’re very respectful, but we have a lot of overall success. fun together.”

“I think we’re big on For Charron, the constant hard work and depointing out how can we termination for progress nurtures the joy prevaadjust, and we are delent among the team members. manding the fact that we need the players to adjust, but we try to keep it as positive as possible with constructive criticism,” Ford Hutchinson said. “We have our girls watching film. When we see we’re dropping off in certain areas, that’s where we’re focusing on [during practice].”

Senior Harvard commit Charlotte Schultz builds on the importance of analyzing film.

“The small differences make all the difference, and when we’re watching, it’s just learning [the opponent’s] tendencies,” Schultz said.

Along with pinpointing areas of improvement, Charron emphasizes that hard work and constant effort are the most important qualities in the team.

“I think everybody comes to practices and to games ready to put their best on the field,” Charron said. “Whenever one person’s feeling a little down, it’s the energy of everybody else that pushes them to keep going.”

The work ethic of the players also The lacrosse team high-fives each other. inspires the coaching staff, fostering a “Whenever everybody’s having fun on the rewarding atmosphere. lacrosse field is when everybody is putting in “Seeing these girls grow year after the most effort,” Charron said. “It’s fun to watch year and the hard work they put in is so motivating and drives us,” Ford Hutchin- somebody do the behind the back, and everybody gets excited.” son said. “It gives us a jolt of energy Flanagan believes the joy of playing lacrosse when we come to practice every day.” is important for players to carry onto the field.

Not only does the team’s connection “That’s the goal at the end of the day,” Flanastrengthen during practices, but the gan said. “You’re playing a sport, and the reason team also has a closeness that co-captain and Stanford commit Mae Flanagan you’re playing is to have fun and enjoy it. Always believes characterizes both their on and find a way to derive joy from whatever you’re doing.” off the field bonds.

Schultz encourages younger teammates to “We’re all one big HLax (Hockaday enjoy every moment. lacrosse) family,” Flanagan said. “Some people “You’re in such a special environment with think we’re a cult, but I prefer the word family to such a special group of people that you should describe our team.” cherish every single moment, because before Schultz highlights that the friendliness and you know it, it’ll be over a little sooner than you unity of the team cultivates discipline. want it to,” Schultz said. “It’s just so special – “There definitely is some truth to when peothere’s no other word for it.” ple say lacrosse is a cult,” Schultz said. “We’re

16

SPORTS

THE HOCKADAY SCHOOL

A year of Daisy domination Hockaday sports see success this season

By Juliette Friguletto Opinions Editor

H

ockaday athletic teams had a very successful year. From preseason practices to SPC Chamionships, each team showed up and showed out.

CROSS COUNTRY The varsity team participated in 10 meets over the fall season led by senior captains Laure Ghorayeb and Jordan Lacsamana, along with Head Coaches La’Boris Bean and Melanie Jenkins.

During the SPC tournament at Norbuck Park, the team had two top five finishers: Lacsamana in second and Aynalie Charron in fifth, with an overall team finish in sixth.

FENCING Even without a coach for part of the season, the varsity team had many bright spots.

Sophomore Elizabeth Kondev achieved First Team USA Fencing All-American in Sabre this season.

Along with Kondev, freshman Sophia Mirza ranked 16th in the Cadet Women’s Foil event over Labor Day weekend.

The team, led by captains Anya Ahuja and Shifa Irfan participated in casual scrimmages, called bouts, during the season instead of matches and tournaments.

FIELD HOCKEY The varsity field hockey team had a promising season, finishing with a record of 11-7 over 18 games, including SPC. Led by Head Coach and Interim Head of Athletics Jennifer Johnson, the 22-player roster finished with the best record since the 2021 season.

Senior captains were Jayna Khatti, who is committed to play at Bowdoin this fall, and Mae Flanagan.

ROWING The rowing team competed in four competitions in the fall season in Oklahoma and Texas.

With 14 novice rowers and 24 varsity rowers, the team had a very successful season with four of their seniors committing to row at the collegiate level.

Head Coach Maria Esway, along with three assistant coaches, have led the team at various regattas, with locations including Lady Bird Lake, Brazos River, Charles River and Oklahoma River.

VOLLEYBALL The Varsity team blew away the competition for the second year in a row, sweeping SPC and maintaining a record of 11-0 against SPC teams throughout the season.

In Allison Curran’s first season as head coach, Varsity only lost two sets the entire season in conference play. Seniors Olivia Wayne and Celine Ebert will continue their volleyball careers in college this fall.

BASKETBALL The varsity team, in only their second year under Head Coach Lauren Moss, finished 5-8 against league teams, supported by two managers and senior captains Hannah Coats and Abby Woodberry.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SARA STOLTZ

DIVING The diving team, although only competing in two meets, had great success at SPC with senior Carissa Ye in first, Abby Snyder in third, freshman Lucy Pigott in fifth and Alice Smith in sixth.

Captains Carissa Ye and Alice Smith led the team.

SOCCER The varsity team finished 15-3 led by senior captains Tori Fair and Annabel Callahan.

The team finished first in SPC North rankings, finishing 6-0-1 in the conference.

The team of 19 players and three managers finished with a winning record, completing the 12th consecutive season while maintaining an over 50 percent win rate under Coach Rod Skaife.

SWIMMING The varsity team, coached by Bobby Patten, Addison Gibney and Caitlin Koranda, had an impressive season, competing in nine meets.

With 29 swimmers and three managers, the team showed consistent growth throughout the season, with numerous top finishers including Kayla Zhang, Vicky Santana, and Caroline Polosky, and a top 10 finish at SPC. GOLF Varsity golf competed in seven tournaments, led by senior captains Alexis Fan and Zoe Littlejohn. The team of 13 has competed in the Hooton Cup, Marvin Dameron Memorial Golf tournament, and numerous invitationals from Jesuit and Trinity Valley.

At the SPC tournament April 22, freshman Prisha Aggarwal placed 10th individually finishing six over par.

LACROSSE The varsity team finished first in SPC for the fifth consecutive year and is now searching for another consecutive state championship.

With five senior college commits on the team, the team has won by a double-digit margin in almost all their games this season with a current record of 15-1 against conference teams.

The team is led by Head Coach Molly Ford and captains Mae Flanagan and Aynalie Charron.

SOFTBALL The varsity softball team, made up of 15 players, is led by senior captains Hannah Coats and Finley Burke, who will continue her softball career at Western Connecticut State University.

TENNIS The 19-player varsity team has played 12 games so far this season, with an 83 percent winning rate and a 10-2 record.

The team is coached by Carol Thumlert and assistant coach Lynn Khaing and has played a total of 12 matches this season.

The captains are Anika Gopal, and Rayna Li, who is committed to play tennis at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

TRACK AND FIELD The varsity team participated in 12 meets, traveling from Houston to Redondo Beach, California, to the University of Texas for the Texas Relays meet.

The team is led by senior captains Laure Ghorayeb and Jordan Lacsamana, along with Head Coach La’Boris Bean.

May 16 2025

opinions

17

A legendary year awaits

Greetings from the incoming Editors-in-Chief

By Lang Cooper and Leyah Philip Editors-in-Chief

W

alking down the hallways before our very first interview with THE Ava Shipp, we contemplated if our journalistic careers would start and end in this very moment. But the interview was just the tip of the Fourcast iceberg. Little did we know, this was only the beginning of a long road of twists and turns.

In our first year on Fourcast, we learned to abandon our beloved Oxford comma and became masters of AP style. Sure, it’s hard to always write out numbers less than 10 and memorize the abbreviations for every month of the year, but when your Editors-inChief leave a passive-aggressive comment on your Word document, you make sure it never happens again.

Year two came around, and with it came the challenges of being a section editor. After months of shadowing previous section editors, we finally sat down to make our very first pages on InDesign. Thoughts of accidentally deleting pages (sorry Lizzy) and forgetting once again how to place a picture (file-place-select picture!), ran through our minds, but we knew we were ready.

In October, we tackled the infamous centerspread. And of

course, there was only one obvious choice to write about: BRAINROT. Eight interviews, seven hours at White Rock Coffee and six hours on InDesign later, “What the Sigma is up with Brainrot?” was complete! That article truly was the moment that solidified our love for journalism, and we are beyond excited to make more memories on the third floor of the LLARC next year. As your new Editors-in-Chief, we hope we can share our love for journalism with all of you through our paper.

So, if you’ve made it this far, you’re probably wondering what you’ll see from the Fourcast next year. Well, let us tell you!

From eye-catching photography to astounding alliteration, hopefully you’ll pick up the print edition without a Fourcast staff member physically putting it in your hands (but don’t worry, if you don’t, we will still put it in your hands). Plus, check out our website (hockadayfourcast. org) and follow our Instagram (@ hockadayfourcast) for amazing exclusive content you will not want to miss from the incoming Web Editors-in-Chief.

Additionally, we hope to discuss pressing issues in our community and share perspectives of all backgrounds (DM us on Instagram

if you want to be GRAPHIC GENERATED BY GOOGLE GEMINI AI featured!). We aspire to make the Fourcast a reliable source of news and a place of connection within the Hockaday community.

As Editorsin-Chief, we promise to dedicate countless hours to making the publication the best it can be.

To our friends, Cooper and Philip blasting off into a legendary year you won’t be seeing us not have a publication without you much next year. To Mary Bradley and cannot wait for another year and Melinda, we are so excited to with you as our adviser. watch our web presence expand So, watch out world, Lang and (#goviral). To our 2025-2026 Leyah are launching into the next Fourcast staff, get excited for a year of Fourcast and could not be year to remember. We can’t wait to more excited for Facetime calls watch everyone grow in their lasting hours, countless treks up new positions. the treacherous LLARC stairs (just Finally, where would we be kidding, we take the elevator) and without the masters? Thank you, six spectacular issues coming Lizzy and Shreya, for being the best your way. role models and leaders this past year. We know we have BIG shoes Woohoo!! to fill. And last but not least, our Lang and Leyah “Shayla” Ms. Rodgers. We would

Capturing life, losing the moment Users romanticize their lives on Instagram

By Aneeka Tansen Features Editor

I once spent two hours obsessively arranging my pictures in a perfect lineup for my Instagram post. Someone scrolling on my account wouldn’t notice a difference, but for me, a corner of a dirty napkin ruining the color palette immediately sets off warning bells.

Romanticizing our lives on Instagram: we all do it, but not all of us want to admit to it. The concept of an app designed for us to craft an ideal version of ourselves makes it near impossible to not project that better version.

The allure of aesthetics, the picture with a vibrant sunset behind you, the candid of you reaching for a cup of coffee or dancing at a concert all capture the memorable parts of your life.

We feel so in control projecting the version of ourselves we want the world to see that it is almost like a personal brand. But if everyone is too busy

curating their brand, then who is your brand truly for?

Suppose everyone in your social circle is taking the same pictures and attending the same events. Your brand naturally becomes less about individuality and more about contributing to a homogenized version of “self-presentation.”

I recently posted a few pictures

following my Winter Formal. The pictures were great, but behind the post was a girl who had 20 minutes to get ready and left just 20 minutes after arriving.

The version of me that showed up online wasn’t fake, but she wasn’t the whole story either. I don’t think that romanticizing your life is a bad thing; it can be a way of finding beauty in chaos or holding on to something that felt perfect for a moment.

The problem doesn’t reside in our posts.

It is when we start feeling pressure to project the perfect life we think represents our true selves.

In a quest to document everything beautiful in your life, you might find yourself experiencing less of it. In my own

experience, I have been so caught up in getting the “perfect” picture at a concert or a vacation instead of being fully immersed in it. I have found myself thinking, “This looks way prettier in person. Why can’t my phone capture what I am seeing?” No phone can fully translate the feeling of a special moment, the way the air feels or the emotions of being there in real time. Similarly, our Instagram can only capture the surface but not the depth of the experience.

I love sharing my life with the world, and I love watching other people do the same, but there is an important distinction between romanticizing your life and trying to fit into a new one. Maybe the best way to truly romanticize your life is to live without needing to obsessively post every moment of it.

GRAPHIC COURTESY OF AMEYA INDARAM

18 THE HOCKADAY SCHOOL

New tariffs fray foreign ties

Canadian guest writer shares perspective on U.S. external relations

By Dylan Follett Guest Writer

B

ack in February, for the first time in eight years, the Canadian and U.S. hockey teams faced off. After the anthems were sung (and the U.S. loudly booed), the whistle blew. Instantly, two players dropped their gloves and started swinging. After they were sent off, two more fights broke out in quick succession. In the first nine seconds, there were three fights — the regular season average is 0.23 fights per game. Canadians absolutely loved it. Honestly, I loved it too, and I don’t even watch hockey. Maybe this is antithetical to the stereotypes of Canada, but it represents a new Canadian identity, defined by a new relationship with the United States.

Americans often view their country as the center of the world, and — at least from the Canadian perspective — they’re right. We are proud of the things we have done together. Canadians and Americans have died beside each other in Afghanistan, Korea and World War II. You are our largest trading partner, and us your second largest.

Our nations do have differences.

Canada separates our foreign policy when we have to, like refusing to follow the U.S. military into Iraq. Many of our points of national pride like universal health care, civil politics, environmental progress and indigenous reconciliation efforts are measured relative to their American equivalents. Canadians and Americans mock each other constantly, but when push comes to shove, we’ve had each other's backs.

I know the relationship will always be uneven; the U.S. has a much larger effect on Canada than we have on you, so you may not realize the scale of our nation's connection without seeing the Canadian perspective. Our countries have been steadfast

friends, we’ve worked together around the globe and held each other accountable. Both our friendships and our differences have defined Canada more than you will ever know. Despite the jokes, we are extremely proud of our relationship -- and our differences -- with the United States.

That’s why President Donald Trump’s tariffs and threats don’t just

quietly proud of our nation, but Trump’s threats have catalyzed Canadian patriotism like never before.

In what’s only a mild simplification, Liberal Mark Carney was elected Prime Minister on April 28 for one simple reason: voters thought he was the best suited to combat Trump. For some context, the Conservative Pierre Polievre had a twenty five percent lead in polling before Trump's

make Canadians feel angry, they feel betrayed.

For you, Trump’s threats to our relationship is just a part of your news, but here, it is our news – defining our election, lives and national identity. The relationship that has helped define Canada was completely inverted, from one of cooperation and mutual respect, to bullying, economic warfare and threats to our sovereignty. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said our country's old friendship is “over” and that a “fundamentally different relationship” will emerge. He’s right, and with it, a fundamentally new Canada will emerge too.

We’re already seeing it.

Canadians have always been

inauguration, and lost it all (alongside his own seat in parliament) essentially on the issue of Trump. This is a completely unprecedented reversal, all because, as U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders put it, “It only took 100 days [of Trump] to convince Canadians the far right has no place in government.”

Anecdotally, I have never seen Canadians so proud to be Canadian. I’ve never heard so many people talking about politics, and especially not this incensed. Every family gathering, we talk about the new Canadian alternatives to American products, we’ve cancelled our Netflix and changed our travel plans. Eightyfive percent of Canadians say

Read former Editor-In-Chief Elizabeth Truelove's response!

they’re proud to be Canadian, up 5 percent since Trump took office.

Even a majority of Bloc Québécois voters are proud to be Canadian, and the Bloc Québécois literally advocates for seceding from Canada. Donald Trump has caused Canadians to come together like never before and set aside our biggest differences in the face of a common enemy.

Last summer, I went to a journalism course in New York City.

It was amazing; I learned so much and met truly amazing people, including the Fourcast’s former Editor-in-Chief Elizabeth Truelove.

It was my first time truly being in an American social group as the only Canadian. Despite facing constant ridicule for my “accent” — which I don’t have — I made lifelong friends. But if the course was today, I wouldn’t have made those friends, because I won’t visit the U.S. anymore. This sucks, I love my American friends, my problem is never with Americans, it’s your government’s choices that forces your country onto the wrong side of history, and my problem is with that government.

This changes Canada, but it changes America too. To Canada, and increasingly to the world, America is no longer a strong ally or the leader of the free world.

Now, America is an unpredictable belligerent that even its closest allies can’t trust.

This new sense of pride in Canada is a rebuking of America.

Even now, our national identity is defined by our relationship with the United States. Our countries will always be inextricably linked, and unfortunately right now that link is hostile. I hope that changes soon, but until then I’m proud of the Canada that doesn’t buy American, and that will never be the 51st state.

I’m proud that we got in three fights in nine seconds, and I’m not sorry about it.

PHOTO COURTESY OF DYLAN FOLLETT

F

19

May 16 2025

EDITORS-IN-CHIEF

Lang Cooper and Leyah Philip

WEB EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Melinda Hu and Mary Bradley Sutherland

MANAGING EDITOR Emily McLeroy

COPY EDITORS

Sarah Moskowitz and Aadhya Yanamadala

WEB MANAGING EDITOR Anya Aggarwal

MULTIMEDIA EDITORS Audrey Liu and Anika Shah

NEWS EDITORS

Sophie Cho and Katie Ma

ARTS & LIFE EDITORS

Siena Ebert and Elizabeth Farrell

FEATURES EDITORS

Jenny Chu and Aneeka Tansen

SPORTS EDITORS

Anderson Rhodus and Alina Zheng

OPINIONS EDITORS

Mary Elise Estess and Juliette Friguletto

PHOTO, GRAPHICS & CASTOFF EDITOR Emilie Illum

BUSINESS MANAGER Sophia Salem

FACULTY ADVISER Kristy Rodgers

EDITORIAL POLICY The Fourcast is written primarily for students of the Hockaday Upper School, its faculty and staff. The Fourcast has a press run of 500 and is printed by Midway Press. It is distributed free of charge to the Hockaday community. The staff reserves the right to refuse any advertising which is deemed inappropriate for the Hockaday community.

Opinions will be clearly marked and/or will appear in the views section. Commentaries are the expressed opinion of the author and do not necessarily reflect that of The Fourcast staff, its adviser or any other member of the Hockaday community. The Staff Editorial on the Opinions page reflects the position of The Fourcast staff, but not necessarily the position Hockaday administration or community. The Fourcast staff determines the content of each issue and strives to work as independently as possible in producing the student newspaper, but the content is subject to prior review by the Head of Upper School, the Communications Director and other members of the Hockaday leadership team.

Letters to the editor and guest columns are welcome and should be addressed to the editors-inchief. Only signed pieces will be published. Corrections and clarifications from previous issues will be found in the news section. Questions or concerns should be addressed to Editors-inChief Lang Cooper (lcooper26@ hockaday.org) or Leyah Philip (lphilip26@hockaday.org)

STAFF EDITORIAL The staff editorial is an unsigned piece representing a consensus of opinion among members of The Fourcast editorial board regarding a current issue.

Real people, real feelings

Highlighting the normalization of discrimination

I

’m sped.” “You look autistic.”

“What a big back.” “That’s so OCD.” Heard (or even said) any of these at Hockaday or even your larger circles? You’re not the first.

Casually vindicative slang like this permeates pop culture and, through social media, everyone’s daily lives. Sometimes it masks itself as a joke, but more often, its usage reveals an unspoken, bitter truth about our culture.

Among Fourcast staffers, 87 percent said they hear such language often and believe that these words negatively impact interpersonal communication. 47 percent have even been hurt by a seemingly offhand comment that someone made about them.

So yes, these comments do affect your peers and classmates.

Even at an all-girls school, we can’t escape the undeniable pressure to conform to societal, often patriarchal expectations of what our bodies should look like. With those standards to look appealing enough in pictures looming over every event, our appearances become centerpieces of negative attention and stress.

Even briefly comedizing discomfort with words such as “fatty” or “big back” only exacerbates feelings such as anxiety, apprehension or even depression over a common insecurity for girls worldwide.

Yet personal reservations over trends and insults relating to food don't always come from people with complicated relationships with their bodies. In fact, anyone who hears these comments can feel belittled and uncomfortable with these comments because they perpetuate restrictive societal pressures and plant ideas in people's minds about forcing more desirable versions of themselves.

Many can certainly recall the “am I (insert random animal) pretty” Instagram reels and social media’s obsession with hip dips and thigh gaps. Even casual quizzes on various measures of beauty standards expose an unfortunate truth: we all want to be part of something desirable and dismiss whatever doesn’t neatly fit into society’s unrealistic guidelines.

So, it’s time to ask: where do we draw the line?

According to a Harvard Business Review article, “ableism is defined as discrimination or social prejudice against people with disabilities based on the belief that typical abilities are superior.” Just as a new derogatory term disappears, a new one comes to take its place to further dehumanize, ridicule and stigmatize those with a disability or within a marginalized community, which is further pushed into mainstream by all types of media narratives.

Rather than bringing awareness to these challenges, the normalization of real-world diagnoses as everyday insults

or quirky personality traits only perpetuates ableist narratives while commodifying people’s identities as a backdrop for a cheap shot or laugh.

Newsflash: people with autism, ADHD or OCD aren’t your punchlines. Though those words on their own describe real conditions and have no inherent negative connotation, twisting them into insults loads them with subtext intended to demean marginalized communities.

With words like these sneaking into Instagram reel captions or TikTok slideshows, it’s easy to become desensitized to the weight of such language. Even if the people around you enable this behavior and continue to accept it, that doesn’t give you a reason to follow their lead.

Though speaking up and saying something about a seemingly offhand comment can garner further ridicule, you’ve at least planted some doubt in your peers’ heads, making it less likely that someone else will have to endure the brunt of what they’ve been saying. Look, it’s hard to confront your flaws, but it’s worse to live a life of denial and ignorance.

Bottom line: there are a million other jokes you can make that aren’t about exploiting people’s insecurities or lionizing ableism.

So, think better and do better.

GRAPHIC COURTESY OF JOYCE JIN

Poll within the Fourcast staff

CASTOFF

May 16 2025

Alexandra Smith Loyola Marymount

Marlo Moskovic Auburn Charlotte Schultz Harvard

Mae Flanagan Stanford

Lily Brown LSU

n pe g hi T T I a Av M

aS a Oh nten io ell Sta a te

Aimee Gu o Cornell

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M ia M &M A

Vivian Sun Northwestern

Annabel Callahan Bowdoin

Ebert Celine kins Hop Johns Alex B lue Ba ron C o r n ell Ar ya aP Pu had rd ke ue

eddy ya R Navi Austin UT

Zoe Heingtes UMich

ge n Geor

Dyla Brown

Shreya Vijay Cornell

So fi

Julia Gawel Rice

Olivia W Duke ayne

Bell a RISD Raper

Grace Kramer Tulane

Cassidy Golden UMiami

Pan Julia tern ro heas ei Nort nt Mo lla se Ste racu Sy

Alyssa Cuban UCLA

20

Jayna Khatti Bowdoin

Aiswarya Koratala Purdue

Abby Woodberry UNC Chapel Hill

Olivia Qiu Rice

Riley Kim Cornell

Kate Davidson Emmy Roberts TCU UT Austin Peyton Gentry Ashlynn Gaffney Tulsa University of Kansas

Persia Brown Northeastern

Laure Ghorayeb Davidson

Kendal Young Fordham

Ali Walton Vanderbilt

Sarah Holmes UPenn

Olivia Oh UT Austin

Caroline Polosky Notre Dame

Elle Myers Northwestern

Alice Smith USC Wynnie Roach Auburn

Anna Bolden Clemson Angela Morales Undecided

Amitha Nair Anu Akingbade Case Western UC Berkeley

Ella Williams Boston University

Scarlett Chicoine St. Andrews

Grey Golman Lindsey Hicks Betsy Johnson Laurie Zhao Tulane UMich UT Austin NYU Diya Cadambe Emma Lin Paloma Duarte Gabriela Ortiz Chloe Clavenna UT Austin Fordham Babson UT Austin Puget Sound

Gretchen Jones Indiana University

Ge o UT rgia Au Fu sti lle n r

l ah W ge cia lle Lu f Co a Ol

Cece Johnson UMiami

Shifa I rfan A&M

St.

Sofia de la Peña A&M

Kristin Liu Emory

Larkin Moore Hannah Coats UMiami A&M

Gabriela Gaona UT Austin

Kelli Ford NYU

Lila Noack Vanderbilt

Sophia Cohen Finley Burke Undecided Western Connecticut

ey el ge s o e M oll n xo n C Sa sto Bo

Faiha Khurram Undecided

Dithyae Devesh Cornell

Ginger McClure A&M

Anjy Fadairo Boston College

Yu Emily e Colgat

Laura Paul Rice

Anastasia Romanyk Syracuse

ey ell Trub Campb n UOrego

Jordan Lacsamana MIT

Kathryn S toller UGeorgia

e Liz Steger lov e u r T UT Austin Erin Yuan Kate Osborne eth estern b a z w Duke Syracuse Eli orth Anika Kapoor Jane Taten N k Isa Moreno Jurace Harvard Aynalie Charron Notre Dame UPenn Afton s Tufts Madalena Ritz-Meuret Tuft Larkin Clouston Anne Cahoon Wellesley Sophie Karthik UT Austin Sunnie Wang UT Austin Dartmouth Carys Braun Caroline Cohen Brown Lilly Snadon Tennie McFarland Northwestern UT Austin UT Austin Ell y Auburn b s ie N le Anya Ahuja e Og e n Tu renb i ne r NYU Sarah Duncan Kate Gonzalez e l h ane erg a Kat Tul CU Boulder A&M Samantha Wu Daniela Perez Carissa Ye Katelyn Hanna Anna Crook George Washington UT Austin UC Berkeley Auburn WashU

Tori Fair Vanderbilt

Danya Risam-Chandi NYU Madison White UT Austin

Rayna Li MIT

Emily McShane Alexis Fan RISD Zoe Littlejohn Tufts Christiana Adesanya Spelman UT Austin

Vanessa Ma Northeastern

Lily Gum Georgetown

Alexa Muñoz Harvard

l i Gohe Khush stin UT Au By: Emilie Illum