Fire displaces students from Towers
By Dylan Pichnarcik Associate Editor
A fire in Corinne Hall Towers resulted in the evacuation of residents and their subsequent displacement from their rooms on Nov. 11.
The fire, caused by a malfunctioning lamp in a student’s room on the sixth floor, spread to flammable personal items throughout the space at approximately 1 a.m., according to Meg Nowak Borrego, vice president of Student Affairs.
As a result, 23 students are living in Linsley Hall or other Towers rooms while water damage is assessed.
The cost of the fire, including repairs and reparations to students, is expected to be approximately $200,000, according to Nowak Borrego.
She said after the building’s alarm system sounded, the sprinkler system activated and stopped the fire from spreading.
The fire remained contained to the student’s room, according to Nowak Borrego.
She said the building’s sprinklers worked as expected to suppress the fire.
While waiting for clearance to reenter the building, students were directed to Hemenway Hall.
Nowak Borrego said she, along with President Nancy Niemi, Robert Totino, vice president of Finance, Technology, and Administration, Ryan Hacker, associate vice president of Facilities and Capital Projects, and Glenn Cochran, assistant vice president of Student Affairs, were on site after the incident and surveyed the building after the Framingham Fire Department left campus.
The group remained on campus until students were readmitted to non-damaged areas of Towers.
Championship Bound!
By Francisco Omar Fernandez Rodriguez Arts & Features Editor
The Swiacki Children’s Literature Festival hosted Lesa Cline-Ransome and James E. Ransome as speakers for the Mary Burns Memorial Lecture Nov. 6.
President Nancy Niemi said there has been a continuous debate about what is considered appropriate material for children’s literature “more or less since print has been widely available.”
She said there are two ongoing attacks on literacy efforts for children.
Niemi said, “On the one
hand, some are trying to limit what children read, at least in schools and libraries. On the other, some are trying to control how children read.
“The too cozy juxtaposition between tight control of what printed materials children are exposed to and tight control of the way in which they learn to decode them, is likely not lost on anyone in this room,” Niemi said.
“It is lucky for us, however, that as authors, illustrators, educators, students, and citizens, we know that this control has, and will always fail, at least in the long run,” she said.
Niemi introduced Cline-Ran-
Admissions works to slow enrollment decline
By Cole Johnson Staff Writer
Over the last decade, the total number of enrolled degree-seeking students at Framingham State decreased by 37%, according to data from the Office of Institutional Research.
In Fall 2015, Institutional Research data showed Framingham State enrolled 5,275 degree-seeking students. By Fall 2025, that number had dropped by 1,964, with only 3,311 degree-seeking students enrolled, including both undergraduate and graduate students.
Framingham State’s degree-seeking student population increased last fall, rising from 3,373 students in 2023 to 3,448 students in 2024. All other years back to 2015 saw declines in student population, according to Institutional Research data.
Data from the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE) shows similar enrollment trends among state and community colleges over the same time period.
Iris Godes, vice president of Enrollment Management, said schools anticipated reduced enrollment rates.
“When the data became available [about] how few children were born in 2008 and 2009, the higher education industry was alerted. ‘You are going to have a cliff in 18 years,’” she said. “Here we are.”
The gradually declining number of enrolled college students is commonly referred to as the “demographic cliff.” Following the Great Recession, the drastically lower number of births led to smaller graduating high school classes.
“The Northeast saw that cliff a little sooner than other parts
of the country,” Godes said. “The Northeast and the Midwest had the biggest hit, and so we’ve started to see that decline earlier. But now it’s really here for everybody.”
Godes said she was disappointed to see the decline in enrollment this year after the rise in the student population in 2024.
She said FSU has experienced enrollment decline “more so than some of our peers of other state universities. They were course-correcting a little better than Framingham,” she said.
Data from the DHE shows enrollment at universities such as Bridgewater State and Worcester State began to recover in Fall 2023 and onward, after following a downward trend similar to Framingham State’s.
Bridgewater State’s student body increased by 2% from Fall 2022 to Fall 2024, while
some as a Newbery Honor award recipient and as an author of several nonfiction and historical fiction books.
“She lives and works in the Hudson Valley region of New York, where she consumes - this is a woman after my own heart - large quantities of books and chocolates each day,” she said.
Cline-Ransome works with her husband, illustrator James Ransome, she added.
Niemi introduced Ransome as someone the Children’s Book Council named as “one of the 75 authors and illustrators everyone should know.”
Worcester State’s student body increased by 9% over the same period.
Godes said in addition to the lower number of eligible students, the COVID-19 pandemic also stunted academic development for many students.
“Everybody had horrible experiences in education [during the pandemic]. So that didn’t help. And the demographic decline is continuing, and now, [students] feel unprepared for college,” she said.
“[Students] weren’t on track emotionally, socially,” Godes said. “And those couple of years, depending on what school you were at, you had a lot of online work. You did not achieve in those couple of years to the level that you should have. So now, seniors in high school are coming out more like sophomores in high school.
See ENROLLMENT Page 5
Adrien Gobin / THE GATEPOST
(Center) Natalie Reynolds going up for a kill during the MASCAC Quarterfinal Nov. 11.
SWIACKI Page 13
Swiacki Children’s Literature Festival hosts Ransome writer and illustrator
E ditorial Board
Editor-in-Chief
Sophia Oppedisano
Associate Editors
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Sarah Daponde Liv Dunleavy
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Lyons
Gatepost Interview Khoa Bùi
By Bella Grimaldi News Editor
How did you get involved with SGA?
Well before SGA, I was an orientation leader two years ago, and one of the orientation leaders with me was César [Matos, the current SGA president]. And after the whole event, César invited me to join SGA as a senator. And after I got into SGA as a senator, a lot of the eBoard members left for their own reasons. I personally don’t know the reason, but the treasurer position was open. I’m like, “Oh, makes sense for me. I’m a finance major, might as well join.” And I did that just because I knew SGA needed a treasurer for eBoard, too. So I wasn’t elected the first time. I was appointed, in a sense, and I just stayed there until now.
As an international student, what brought you to FSU?
Well, back in Vietnam, I used an international student company to do my paperwork, like my application paperwork, because I needed to focus on school. They gave me four offers. It was [Suffolk University] in Boston, University of Texas, here, and some other university in some state I forgot. I chose here because Suffolk and Texas gave me a scholarship, but Texas is so far away and I have no family there - so I didn’t want to go there. Suffolk gave me a scholarship, too, but it was way too expensive. It was like 60-70k per year. It’s a private school. At first, I was happy about that scholarship because they gave me 18k, but I was like, “I don’t think it’s going to be worth it,” so I didn’t go. Even though FSU didn’t give me any scholarships, it’s close enough to my aunt - it’s like 30 minutes away from my aunt - and the price is reasonable enough that I went here.
What is your favorite part of being in SGA?
Just being able to be involved and making the impact to different clubs, different organizations. Especially as treasurer, you get to see many different clubs, and get to hear about so many different events that you wouldn’t be able to hear otherwise, because sometimes, they don’t like to advertise as much. Things like Art Club or Alpha Omega or Outing Clubit’s a perk that you get, like, first scoop on what the event is because they’re asking for money for the event. … Even though it’s a part that nobody thinks about -
the money part - it is a crucial part of the event. I’m really happy to be able to have the chance to lead such a wonderful Finance Committee to help make that happen. Even though we’re not directly involved in the club, we’re indirectly involved in so many clubs.
What are your goals as SATF treasurer?
Just to be more transparent in the rest of the school year. Tell not just SGA, but more clubs exactly how we do things and our budget. Right now, I have not shared the total funding to any clubs yet. It’s just, right now, knowledge in my possession. Not even my Finance Committee members know, and I’m trying to change that. My first step is to start making monthly reports in SGA about our current budget and through that, maybe there are other senators or other members who can tell other clubs when the other clubs come and have a question. So they don’t have to rely on just me, but anybody who knows vaguely the number can talk about it. Also, I am playing around with the idea of making a financial literacy workshop for the students here.
What advice do you have for other students?
Just be involved. Whether that’s going to a club that you’re interested in, or just making friends and just helping people out. I would say the most important thing to keep in mind when you’re here is you’re not just here to study and get a degree. You’re here to find yourself and find your true self. Not just for you to fit in, not to belong to a community, but bring your own self to a community and change that for the better. And I pray that everybody on campus, now and the future students who come in, will be able to find their true self and their Father as well - the Father in heaven that I’ve been blessed enough to know.
The Gatepost Archives
Campus fire addressed at Board of Trustees meeting
By Sarah Daponde Editorial Staff
The Board of Trustees discussed the recent fire at Corinne Hall Towers, the Campus Master Plan update, and the University’s retention rates, among other agenda items on Nov. 12.
Vice President for Student Affairs Meg Nowak Borrego informed the Board about the fire on Nov. 12, which occurred on the sixth floor of Corinne Hall Towers.
Students evacuated the building around 1 a.m. and 23 students could not return to their residence hall after the fire was extinguished, said Nowak Borrego.
The fire was caused by a lamp and was put out by the sprinkler system. “We ended up having pretty reasonable water damage from the sixth floor down to the ground floor,” said Nowak Borrego.
There was significant water damage in 24 rooms, along with the hallways and closets. “We anticipate three of the rooms are damaged enough that we need to move the people into another space because we’re going to have to take the drywall off,” she added.
The 23 displaced students were able to go back home, stay with friends, or relocate to Linsley Hall, said Nowak Borrego.
She said the Dean of Students Office is working with the impacted students to understand what was lost and how to help them replace it.
She estimated the total damages to be between approximately $100,000 and $200,000.
Nowak Borrego said University administrators, such as herself, President Nancy Niemi, and Robert Totino, vice president of Finance, Technology, and Administration, stayed with the students during the emergency.
She said the University is working hard to get students back to their residence hall as soon as possible.
Board of Trustees Chair Anthony Hubbard said, “I’ve always viewed [the University] as a small town that is being run here - medical, fire, police, all the elements of it, so I really want to commend you all for coming together.”
Niemi said she would not be discussing updates from the Division of Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement (DICE) or the University Advancement Division at the meeting.
Niemi said she had a few “delightful things” to discuss at the meeting, including the celebration for the Danforth Art Museum’s 50th Anniversary on Nov. 22.
“What an achievement and, sometimes, an ordeal it was in
Saturday, Nov. 15
Increasing clouds, with a high near 44.
order to make that happen. It truly has been a partnership that has been better for the community,” she added.
Niemi also introduced the new Director of External Affairs, David Halbert, whose role is to develop and implement initiatives to strengthen the University’s relationships with local organizations, businesses, and residents.
“We realized that the University needed an interface between internal work and the external community, so we envisioned that the person in this position would be a key liaison between Framingham State and the surrounding community,” said Niemi.
During his report, Totino discussed a joint meeting between
which will each go “on its own little timeline” of one to three years.
“Framingham State has done a lot of work on sustainability and decarbonization. … [We’re] finding out the next few buildings that we’d like to look at for decarbonization purposes,” he said.
Totino said an executive mandate from former Governor Charlie Baker required all universities to strive to reduce their fossil fuel emissions by 95% by the year 2050.
Totino commended Framingham State for already achieving its 2030 carbon emission reduction goal.
Provost Kristen Porter-Utley and Vice President of Enrollment Management Iris Godes
the Board’s Compliance, Audit, and Risk Committee and Finance Committee, and the initiatives taken to complete an audit of the University.
“The auditors noted no material weaknesses or significant deficiencies,” he said.
Totino said the successful fiscal year involved a “huge amount of effort” from many departments, including the Business Department, Student Accounts, and Financial Aid.
Totino said the Campus Master Plan is being updated and prepared for the final draft report. The draft will be reviewed at the next Finance Committee meeting on Jan. 20 and brought to the full board for approval at the Jan. 28 meeting.
Totino said after the updated plan is approved, the next steps will be determined. There are currently “11 or so major building projects” in the Master Plan,
Sunday, Nov. 16
A chance of rain, mainly before 8am. Partly sunny, with a high near 52.
updated the Board on enrollment numbers.
Porter-Utley said there was an increase of 11% in the enrollment of graduate students in the Fall 2025 semester, but a decrease of 8% in first-year students.
Godes said the University recently partnered with enrollmentFUEL, a campaign focused on engaging with high school students in their sophomore and junior years through the use of emailed and printed advertisements.
The University plans to send out more physical advertisements, such as postcards, in case prospective students do not check their emails, said Godes.
Godes said the University has lost a significant percentage of student enrollment because of the new state initiative to make community colleges free.
Monday, Nov. 17 Mostly sunny, with a high near 42.
Tuesday, Nov. 18 Mostly sunny, with a high near 45.
Godes said other public institutions are also competition for FSU, including Bridgewater State, UMass Boston, UMass Dartmouth, and Worcester State.
She said Bridgewater State University committed to a plan last year guaranteeing free tuition and fees for anyone with a household income under $125,000, which brought them a 14% increase in enrollment.
“It was cost prohibitive for us, and frankly, every other state university,” added Godes.
Niemi announced the “Student in the Spotlight,” Aili Schiavoni.
Schiavoni was introduced by the Chair of Fashion Design & Retailing, Haewon Ju.
Ju said it was an honor to introduce Schiavoni, a senior fashion design student and president of the Fashion Club. “When I think of her, the first word that comes to my mind is ‘enthusiastic.’”
Schiavoni then gave a presentation on her journey at FSU and her goals for the future.
Student Trustee Luke Yubeta said, “Your passion is what makes Framingham students great and what makes our campus unique.”
Yubeta said SGA recently elected new eBoard members, including a new vice president, Shubham Valand, and secretary, Ling Zhang. They also elected three new executive board members, a publicist, and new senators.
“It seems at this point, we are adding new senators at every senate meeting, which occurs biweekly, so it’s very impressive,” added Yubeta.
Yubeta also discussed the ad hoc Safety and Security Committee, a temporary committee established through SGA with Senator Nathan Piette as the chair.
The committee plans to undertake a safety walk on campus Nov. 13. Their goal is to check a list of safety features on campus to determine which ones function and which should be updated.
Yubeta said the Administrators’ Forum is scheduled for the following week.
Hubbard said there will be a retreat for the Board on Dec. 8 at the Danforth Art Museum. “It is not for deliberating and making decisions. That meeting is a training session.”
Hubbard added, “We didn’t have any real meaty discussion here at this meeting, but there’s been a lot at the committee level that has been going on … and a lot going on with the students.”
CONNECT WITH SARAH DAPONDE sdaponde@student.framingham.edu
Wednesday, Nov. 19 Sunny, with a high near 46.
Thursday, Nov. 20
Mostly sunny, with a high near 47.
Dylan Pichnarcik / THE GATEPOST
(Left) Akiko Takamori, Meg Nowak Borrego, Anthony Hubbard at the Nov. 12 Board of Trustees meeting.
New Honors Program director revamping program
By Wenchell Pierre Staff Writer
Newly appointed Honors Program Director Laura Hudock, professor of education, said she plans to expand data collection to strengthen student engagement in the Honors Program.
She said her initiatives include introducing “success scripts” and conducting focus group interviews to evaluate the program’s overall effectiveness.
“I’m really trying to figure out what is the identity of an honors student here at our campus, and I’m reluctant to say what it is right now, because I’m in a data-collection phase,” Hudock said.
Her ongoing case study, “Current Policies and Lived Experiences of Past and Present Students, Faculty and Staff Involved in the Commonwealth Honors Program at Framingham State University,” will serve as a programmatic self-assessment examining efficacy, impact, diversity, and equity practices, Hudock said.
Since June, Hudock has met biweekly with Associate Provost Keri Ann Sather-Wagstaff to set program priorities.
“I want to hear from everyone who’s had or has a stake or an interest in the Honors Program to really figure out what the data says - what our needs and areas for growth are,” Hudock said.
She said developing a longterm plan is her next priority.
“And then next semester - work to develop a strategic plan. And just for me, the most important thing is for me to actively listen to what students’ needs are,” Hudock said.
As part of her review, Hudock said she is also examining the program’s probationary measures to ensure consistent academic monitoring.
“One thing that I’m trying to put in place is a system to stringently track students so that I can advise and we are able to have conversations with students who might not meet that GPA minimum,” she said.
“There are opportunities for probation if they don’t - a two-semester probation for first-year students and sophomores, and a one-semester probation for juniors and seniors if they’re not meeting GPA,” Hudock added.
Another major component of Hudock’s vision is to develop “success scripts” - profiles highlighting the diverse academic paths students take to complete the Honors Program.
Hudock said she hopes the success scripts will offer students “a variety of experiences, because no two are going to be alike, and have those as something that prospective students can see that is someone’s pathway.
“So it’s about reaching out to alumni, but also finding students, current students, who are willing to share that script with us as they journey through the program,” she added.
As of Fall 2025, there are 281 active honors students, of whom 96 identify as members of historically marginalized populations.
Hudock said data for only seven students remain unreported, meaning the available demographic breakdown is nearly
complete.
The gender distribution, she added, shows a one-to-four ratio of males to females, a disparity that traces back to admissions patterns.
“That figure comes directly from the application stage,” Hudock said.
“When students apply to Framingham State, those who meet honors eligibility are invited automatically. Some accept, but some decline - and I’m trying to understand whether that decision has more to do with perception or access,” said Hudock.
“I’m looking at the Honors Program through a lens of impact and equity. We need to ask why some students are not enrolling when invited, and what we can do to be more welcoming and inclusive,” Hudock said.
Hudock said to close that gap, she is promoting application pathways for current Framingham State students who may not have been invited to the Honors Program at admission but have since demonstrated strong academic performance.
“That’s an untapped population,” she said. “If a student here is thriving, has a qualifying GPA, and still has general education courses to complete, we’d welcome them into the program.”
Hudock said in 2021, there were 236 honors students enrolled that fall.
The following year, 218 students were recorded, followed by a jump to 280 in 2023 and 255 in 2024, with 281 honors students currently.
Since Fall 2021, a total of 123 students have unenrolled from the program.
Of those who did withdraw from the Honors Program, 85 students still met GPA requirements.
Hudock said the data suggests academic standing is not the leading factor contributing to attrition.
Hudock said most withdrawals occur after two completed semesters - typically during the sophomore year.
To address that pattern, Hudock and University leadership are introducing new engagement incentives such as the Harlaxton Semester Abroad, debuting in Fall 2026.
“Students are already talking about it,” she said.
“Having something tangible to look forward to - and earning honors credit while abroad - keeps them invested,” Hudock said.
Madeleine Boucher, a senior criminology major, said the program helped her become a more disciplined learner.
“It’s given me more structure. I’ve always been competitive academically, so having that push of ‘You can’t get below this grade’ helped me. I was a B or C student in high school. Here, I haven’t gone below a B,” she said.
Emily Taylor, a senior American Sign Language Interpreting major, described the program as “a wake-up call” that instilled both confidence and resilience.
“College is not all fun and games. You do have to put in effort,” Taylor said. “It taught me that I can do it - I can keep going with the honors thing even though it’s hard. It feels good to know I can achieve that.”
Kaitlyn Callahan, a senior in
the University’s 4+1 education program, is completing her thesis while teaching and officiating basketball.
“I would never have taken on writing such a big paper if I had the choice,” she said. “But it’s pushing me beyond my comfort zone and really helping me further my education. When I graduate and go into the field, it’s going to help me.”
Callahan said she appreciated having “that extra advisor you can go to,” but suggested that program communication could be more proactive.
“There should be at least one check-in with the Honors House every semester. It’s not really a check-in unless you reach out to them,” said Callahan.
She added while event invitations - such as the Nutcracker outing or ice cream socials - were welcome, academic advising often relied on student initiative and email.
“Don’t just email me about a dinner for the thesis,” Callahan said. “Ask if I have someone to work with. Some people don’t even know where to begin.”
Taylor said her engagement with the Honors Program improved after mandatory faculty meetings last year.
“It made a big difference,” she said. “My professors would sit down and ask, ‘What’s going on? What can I know about you that’ll help me teach you?’
That one-on-one check-in was a turning point.”
Hudock said the Honors House - located behind Miles Bibb Hall - is a “home base” where “welcoming happens first.”
She has curated the space to include a “welcome board” for new students. She said, “I’m here two days a week.
“It’s intended for the honors students. And of course, if an honor student is bringing a friend into an honors event, that’s fine,” she added.
Hudock said the Honors House has been stocked with everything students might need.
“If someone needed a dongle to connect their laptop to the TV screen - we got one. Another student asked for a first-aid kit. [There’s] coffee supplies and a small refrigerator,” she added.
“We’ve even added the latest MLA and APA style guides, so if students are working on research, the resources are right there at their fingertips,” Hudock said.
Boucher, who prefers to study
independently, said, “I’ve never even set foot in the Honors House. I didn’t think I needed an area where like minds met. I’m pretty self-sufficient in that regard.”
Callahan said, “I hadn’t used it until this semester. Now, I meet with my thesis advisor there and I’ve seen the resources - every past honors thesis is kept in the house and the library. You can flip through and see all the titles.”
Taylor said her only experience with the Honors House was an ice cream social. “I’m a commuter and I work almost full time. I would have loved to be there more, but it just wasn’t realistic.”
Without peers in the program, Taylor said she often felt isolated. “I never met anyone else in the Honors Program that I connected with, which is sad to say.”
Taylor also suggested expanding course options in each general education domain.
“Being a language major, it’s kind of a dead end. I love science and math, but I can’t take more classes in those because they won’t count toward my domains,” Taylor said.
Students in the Honors Program must complete a minimum of six honors courses, including a RAMS First-Year-Seminar and the honors capstone course. Typically, the honors courses offered each semester only cover one general education domain each.
Joe Mark, a senior biology major, said that at times, students take a redundant class to get an honors credit.
“Depending on the discipline. It’s very difficult to get into the honors classes as they fill up quickly,” Mark said.
Hudock said she acknowledges assessment and communication are areas she needs to focus on in her new role. “We’re still learning how students engage and how best to meet them where they are.”
As Janieliz Garcia Rivera reflected on the pride she feels as both a first-generation college student and honors scholar, she said, “It’s nice to be able to say, ‘I’m in the Honors Program.’
“School has always been important to me. For me - and for my parents - that’s really nice to hear,” Rivera said.
Dylan Pichnarcik / THE GATEPOST
The entrance of the Honors House located on Adams Rd.
from Page 1
“Academically, they’re not quite as college ready … as they used to be,” she added. “I think students felt that as well. And so fewer of them went to college.”
Godes said there were more cultural discussions about the value of college, going back to before the pandemic. “The buzz about ‘Is college worth it?’ started to elevate. And so people were questioning, ‘Do I even go to college?’” she said.
Godes said attitudes about college experiences have changed as well. Increasingly, more students want to go into college knowing their career path and major.
“We’re hearing that more and more from students. ‘I don’t want to go and figure it out. I need to figure it out before I go,’” she said.
“Since I’ve been here, every year, there’s been a decline in the number of undeclared students,” she said.
Godes attributed some of this change in attitude to the increasing costs of education. “I think some of it is, ‘I don’t want to waste time. I don’t want to waste money.’ Cost is a much bigger factor [today],” she said.
Additionally, Godes said gap years prevent students from immediately attending college. “The concept of [a] gap year … really ballooned,” she said.
“So there were already fewer [students], hard stop. And then of that lower number of people, fewer were going directly to college,” she said.
Godes said another factor impacting enrollment was the introduction of free community college in Massachusetts.
“One theory that we had with the new initiative of free community college was that that was going to have a huge impact on our enrollment, and that we were going to lose possibly hundreds of students to community colleges,” she said.
The Office of Admissions analyzes data from the National Student Clearinghouse (NSC) to see where students go who apply to Framingham State, but don’t enroll, according to Godes.
The NSC is a nonprofit that provides research services to higher education institutions in North America.
“Sixty-five students went to MassBay,” Godes said. “Now, that’s a lot, but 371 went to UMass Boston.
“So it’s been fascinating to me that while we definitely were impacted by [free] community college, it was not the hugest impact that we feared. But it was enough to make a difference, for sure,” she said.
Godes said another population she believes FSU lost was undocumented students.
“We had undocumented students here, and the state, a couple of years ago, put some money in and a pathway to financial aid for undocumented students that never existed before,” Godes said.
She added the DHE allowed students to apply for the aid using the Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid (MAFSA).
“This year, we saw a huge growth initially in those applications,” she said. “Then, those students started saying, ‘I’m not coming for personal reasons.’
“I don’t have the hard data yet,” Godes said. “But I was watching students who said they were going to come and
then backed out over the summer.
“I would look up what I could about them and when they shared the information, I could see they were DACA, they were undocumented, they were in that pool,” she said. “And of course, they were scared to death, frankly, to go out of their house.
“I was at Framingham High School a couple weeks ago,” she said. “And they were saying how their students - never mind they’re not applying to college - they’re not coming to school they’re so afraid.”
To address decreasing enrollment, Godes said the Office of Admissions has made significant corrections in how they recruit and fund students.
“Students were getting much more attractive financial aid offers to make the cost at the end of the day doable for them,” she said.
“For our low-income students, we could cover all of their tuition and fees and a goodsized stipend for books. If they commuted, they paid nothing,” she said. “We also offered a housing grant, which we had in the past, but we increased it substantially.
“We also changed the way we recruited students in terms of how we communicated with them,” she said. “We sold Framingham [State]. So the amount of communication increased. The amount of digital advertising increased to try to reach them.”
Godes said college recruitment is much more active now than in the past.
“Back in the day … there were, from what I hear, years that we had so many students on campus, we had some in hotels,” she said.
“We were so full. You didn’t have to recruit like you do today. People just knew, Framingham State is here. Everybody knew it, and they came,” she added.
One change Godes said she implemented was assigning each potential student an admissions counselor in order to give them a more immediate personal connection.
Godes said communication also increased to better inform potential students of the school’s opportunities, involving “a combination of print materials that we send home, the website, which we improved, and the digital advertising, which expanded dramatically.”
Godes stressed the importance of the expanded marketing to remind people about information they might not know about the college.
She said, “People were saying to me in the beginning, ‘Well, everybody knows Framingham [State’s] here.’ I said, ‘Why does McDonald’s advertise? Why does Nike advertise? Does anybody not know?’
“You need the reminder,” she said. “And for our people, we were making assumptions about what they know, which they may or may not.”
She said visiting the campus made a big difference in people’s impressions of the school. “You’ve got to get them here so that they can experience it. And so we work really hard to get people to campus,” she said.
Dan Magazu, executive director of the Office of Marketing & Communications, said Framingham State’s marketing efforts have become much more
focused on authenticity.
“Prospective students are looking for more authentic information from universities,” he said. “They’re looking for other student voices.”
Magazu said Framingham State recently hired a firm called CampusReel, which hires students to create videos about different topics on campus.
CampusReel is an organization that works to promote higher education institutions with student-led video content.
“You’re trying to provide real stories, and show the real impact the University has had on students in terms of providing them opportunities to get an education, get a good job, and have a good life,” he said.
“We’re trying to make our campaigns more around storytelling than just buzzwords or slogans,” Magazu said. “We actually recently put together some campaigns around three different students at the University.”
According to Magazu, each campaign consisted of a video with an accompanying story, depicting the student’s personal experience at Framingham State.
“Ultimately, students can tell other students the best reasons why Framingham State might be a good opportunity for them,” he said.
Magazu said marketing has also become much more personalized. “Five, ten years ago, it might be more about just getting Framingham State’s name out in general and hoping that students see it and are interested. Now, we can really dive in in a granular way.”
Magazu said the goal of advertising was to get students to fill out a Request for Information (RFI) form for FSU, at which point they become a prospective student.
“If they tell us they have a certain major, we’ll send them a letter from the chair of that department. If they tell us they’re interested in commuting, we might tee up a student story from a commuter student - vice versa with resident students,” he said.
Despite challenges with enrollment, Magazu said he felt confident in the Office of Marketing & Communication’s ability to bring students to the school.
“Everyone’s working really hard to make sure that we continue to enroll a healthy number of students in the face of some dramatic challenges - not just the enrollment cliff, but also free community college,” Magazu said.
He added certain schools with traditionally high numbers of international students were seeing a reduction in that student population.
“To replace those students, they’re going to be more competitive with the students who are coming to Framingham State,” he said. “We have to make sure we’re doing an excellent job communicating the value of Framingham State.”
Godes said by looking at data trends among students who enroll in other colleges, and examining academic programs and recruitment strategies at those universities, Framingham State will be able to make necessary changes to attract more students.
“There’s not more people. But [other schools are] doing better.
They are taking our people,” Godes said.
According to Godes, the top five institutions applicants attended instead of FSU were UMass Boston, Bridgewater State, UMass Lowell, UMass Dartmouth, and Worcester State, in that order.
“Of the 5,000 plus applications that we get, that represents over 1,300 students,” she said.
Godes said another strategy is working with departments that have equivalent programs at competing universities. “We have that major, but they’re going somewhere else,” she said. “Now I can work with those departments [at FSU]. How can we be promoting your program better?”
Provost Kristen Porter-Utley said the University can draw in students by changing concentrations to majors.
“Last year, there were a series of proposals that came through our governing process to offer to elevate some concentrations in biology to actual majors,” she said. “And so, what we have seen as a result of that is an increase in interest of new students in biology.
“Rather than hiding something as a concentration, really having it as a major gets it out there to students that we’re actually doing this kind of work,” she said.
According to Porter-Utley, a group of faculty and staff members called the Academic Program Portfolio Team also evaluates the University’s programs.
She said the role of the team was to assess, “‘What does our academic program portfolio look like?’ ‘What do we know are interests?’ ‘What are some things that we might think about doing to change that portfolio, to be of interest to students?’”
She said another aspect of enrollment she was concerned about was the transfer process.
“We don’t necessarily make our processes that easy,” Porter-Utley said. “How quickly we’re able to get back to transfer students about what will transfer and won’t transfer … is something that we’re working on.”
Godes said enrollment initiatives have helped slow the decline. “Even though we’re still down … we’re recovering,” she said.
Overall, Godes said, a major factor to balance with expanded enrollment initiatives is money. Godes said increasing financial aid is a sure way to raise enrollment, citing Bridgewater State’s “BSU Commitment,” which pledged to cover all tuition and fees for families making $125,000 or less.
“It was a massive amount of money. However, they saw about a 14% increase in their enrollment this year,” she said.
“Do we decide to be bold? That costs money,” she said. “It’s only so high you’re going to go without pulling money away from everybody’s experience at the University. So you need to have enough that students get a great experience as well as [an affordable experience].
[ Editor’s Note: Additional student comment can be found in the web edition of The Gatepost. ]
OP/ED
THE GATEPOST EDITORIAL
Go beyond the land acknowledgment
At the first All University Meeting of the academic year on Oct. 24, President Nancy Niemi announced the University is launching an initiative to reestablish an official FSU Land Acknowledgement as a part of the strategic plan.
The rewriting and development of the land acknowledgement is led by the University’s Institutional Inclusive Excellence Committee and the Native American Land Acknowledgement Working Group, steered by Jeffrey Coleman, vice president of Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement.
An email was sent to students on Monday, Nov. 10, requesting feedback on the statement during the committee’s review process. Students can submit comments on the new land acknowledgment statement until Nov. 21.
The committee’s statement reads: “We acknowledge that the land we live, work, learn, and commune on is the original homeland of the Nipmuc tribal nations.
“We recognize the painful history of genocide and forced removal from this territory, and we honor and respect the many diverse Indigenous peoples still connected to this land on which we gather.
“We commit to understanding this history, remedying its lasting impacts, and building a future free from oppression and violence.”
The Gatepost Editorial Board would like to express its support for both the initiative to redevelop an official FSU Land Acknowledgment and for the proposed statement.
The University and the Center for Inclusive Excellence (CIE) are currently recognizing and celebrating National Native American Heritage Month with an event including Taste of Culture hosted Nov. 12.
This event is the only acknowledgment of National Native American Heritage Month hosted by the University this year.
That is not OK.
We can not only rely on the CIE and a land acknowledgment to be the way we recognize Indigenous peoples.
The Gatepost Editorial Board encourages more gatherings to be held on campus that center on Indigenous culture and we encourage students to actively engage in their education surrounding the history of Indigenous nations in Massachusetts.
The percentage of Indigenous students and faculty on campus is lower than 1%, according to data
Letter to the Editor
To The Gatepost Editorial Board:
I would like to respond to your editorial, “Unpublished and Unacceptable,” in the November 7 issue, in which you address the impact of the poem “Zing,” which was read by guest poet Miriam Levine on October 21st. I acknowledge that we are still processing the effect this event has had on our community. What your editorial fails to mention, however, is in the days that followed, as Chair of the English Department, I chose to take a student-centered approach by talking directly to affected students who attended the event. I held listening sessions with the three classes that came to the reading with their professors. My own class talked for a full 75 minutes. I wanted to have these conversations in safe spaces where students would be more likely to share their thoughts and feelings –where I
could apologize in person, and simply listen.
The most important visit I made was to talk to the brave student who asked our speaker the question, “Why do you feel comfortable using that word with a hard-r?” In class, the student had many insights to share and together with her peers, we talked about the importance of trigger warnings. I reassured the class that FSU faculty are trained to avoid spotlighting students of color to teach the history of racial prejudice. This is a burden that shouldn’t fall on any one student. In each class, I encouraged students to visit my extended office hours or talk to the Director of the Center for Inclusive Excellence (CIE), Jerome Burke, or his staff, who will continue to make themselves available for additional support.
In an effort to make sure I spoke to everyone affected, I sent a statement to English ma-
from AY 2024-25. As a campus of mostly non-Indigenous people, we must take an initiative to educate ourselves about these nations, not just hope they come to us to do all the work.
One way students can do that is by actively integrating Indigenous cultures in their education.
The University offers courses that, in part or entirely, focus on the study of Indigenous histories or cultures. These courses are in a number of departments, meaning students could likely take them as a part of their GenEd requirements.
With that, the educational departments at our University must make a point to regularly offer the Indigenous courses they list in academic catalogue.
Courses like GEOG 180 Native Americans: The Original Injustice on American Soil, HSTY 303 Native American History, and ANTH 243 Indigenous Cultures of North America sound wonderful and are sure to be deeply educational courses - but if they are only offered every couple of years or aren’t able to be taken by students outside of their departments, it is hard for students to seek them out and actually enroll.
Another way students can take an active role in engaging with Indigenous culture is through their own clubs. Clubs like History Club, Volunteering Club, and the Student Government Association could host events centered around Indigenous groups, while still being connected to their clubs goals.
The History Club could host a table in McCarthy educating students about Indigenous history. The Volunteering Club could coordinate with Massachusetts Center for Native American Awareness to encourage students to support the Indigenous communities closest to them. The Student Government Association could host a panel with members from Indigenous nation tribes to speak with the campus community.
We stand behind the reestablishing of the FSU Land Acknowledgement and recognize that it is an important goal achieved by the University. However, this effort should only be the start of what our campus does in order to remedy the lasting impacts of the marginalization of Indigenous peoples.
We are excited to see how the University will continue to offer resources and knowledge to our community about this land and the tribes it belongs to and we hope it will be continued outside of Native American Heritage Month.
jors and minors, who comprised the remainder of our audience. The guidance I received from our administration and outside experts is that this should be a teaching moment for the community. By the end of the week, I sent out the following statement:
The English Department recognizes that the language used in a poem presented by a guest poet during a public reading on October 21st was offensive and hurtful to many students and faculty. When students arrived at the reading, solo or with their instructors, they didn’t know that one of the poems would reference rap lyrics containing a racial slur. Although the English Department did not choose this poem, which was derived from the poet’s unpublished collection, we acknowledge its negative impact and wish we had been able to adequately prepare the audience.
While we regret the hurt and upset the poem generated, we are proud of the conversations we’ve had this week — in our classes, at the other week of poetry events, in the hallways— conversations about triggering language; about the difference between quoted language, the speaker’s voice, and the author’s voice; and finally, about linguistic strategies leveraged effectively by specific communities that seek to disempower and redirect the power of derogatory language. In short, I am proud of this community and the norms we share, which make FSU such a great place to learn.
Dr. Lisa Eck
Chair and Professor of English
By Liv Dunleavy Editorial Staff
Dear Grief,
I think of you often.
You never leave my mind. You’ve moulded my life around the gap you’ve left.
This year, I lost my whole world. I’d never known what a loss was like, and that was a privilege I’ve never wanted to have but one I never wanted to lose. Every year I grew more aware of my double-edged sword of griefless-ness.
I thought about the possibilities, morbidly, who would I lose first? Do I have the emotional capacity to lose someone I’m not even close to? What does death feel like when you’ve never lost anyone?
Dear Grief,
I write to you often. I read to you often, complain to you often, and you exist in my many emotional states. My poetry, prose, and random outbursts of my mental breakdowns are what I devote to you occasionally, less often now.
I follow many social media pages. They post relatable content so I don’t feel alone. I like and comment when it pops up. I cry at poems and laugh at memes in the middle of the day. I teeter on the edge of delusion when I walk into the places that used to hold a physical space for him. I reach out for a body that no longer occupies that space.
Dear Grief,
It’s been six months now, a half of a year. I don’t want you to leave me. I couldn’t live with myself if I couldn’t lean on your uncomfortable yet comforting shoulder. There’s a part of me that angers at the silence of my peers. People who know his name and do not say it often.
And it’s not their name to speak, but I feel like I’m pulled into a tug-of-war. A side of me wants to keep him to myself. To hold him and protect him and kneel at his side and beg for forgiveness. Yet, another side of me yells to the skies to speak his name, to scream it loud and hope that he will come running at the sound of our cries.
Dear Grief,
Do you think of me? If so, what do you think of? When you think of me, Grief, what do you imagine?
One thing I always said before I met you, Grief, is that everything that happens is meant to be.
Life may change and things may happen, but things do happen for a reason. I don’t know if I was naive or if I thought accepting fate or destiny would lead me somewhere great. I don’t know if the crap I told myself would work out in the end.
Do you experience the pain of grief or is it just me? Is it just us, reader?
Do we feel grief mindlessly, like a post we happen to fall upon on Instagram, or does it
Dear
Grief, nothing is meant to be, but...
control us? Does that post trigger the grief like a switch, and it flares to life to loom over your day?
I’ve never known a feeling so overwhelming yet numbing as grief.
It consumes me at any moment and can make my emotions spike so intensely. It can make me laugh in a way that makes me cry in a way that makes me hurt - it’s a cycle. One that I can only describe as personal.
When I think of my boy, I think of him fondly. I think of him sitting on the windowsill. I think of the shows we used to watch, and the warm blankets we used to share, and the throw up I used to clean up.
Thinking helps, thinking hurts, in the end it is a part of grieving regardless.
I write him letters, I sing him songs, I believe when I walk in the door he will still be there waiting for me.
He’s not.
What they don’t tell you about grief is they never come back.
I want you to know that it’s OK to not want to let go. I don’t care what your therapist says, or what those self-help books say, or the people around you who think loss is just something that you can grow to live with.
Grief will come in many forms. Grief takes the shape of your imagination and molds to your emotions. I know the weird uncomfortable feeling when you find yourself happy or smiling like a fool and pause like a deer in headlights.
You stop smiling and you pause, scared like you did something wrong.
You didn’t. It’s OK to feel. It’s OK to laugh, cry, scream, smile, any emotion you feel is one you should not feel ashamed for.
Grief is not one emotion. Grief is every emotion.
Dear Grief,
You’ve gone and tricked me again. I still hear the snores and chitters when I walk in a quiet room, I feel his fur when I dream.
Sometimes I think I’ll never truly accept that he’s gone. I still believe every day that I will walk in my house and he will be there and all I needed to do was walk out and back in like some sort of weird house reset button.
It can feel sometimes like I use him as an excuse. I try to discourage that thought. It’s not an excuse. It never will be. I will carry this pain with me for the rest of my life.
I could be having the best day and be brought down to the trenches with emotion at the mere sight of something that reminds me of him.
Dear Reader, When you grew up, did you experience any loss? Was it someone you were close to? Were you alone, and did you feel like everything was at stake? How do you feel now, however long it’s been since that loss? If you have not lost anyone yet, I feel for you. I know it might be hard and scary - it was for me. I didn’t know how I’d react, if I’d be able to pick myself up or if I’d even feel anything at all.
You are not alone. I don’t know what you’re going through. I only know my own pain. But I know what it’s like for me and I know that no matter what your circumstances are you deserve support. For whoever you grieve, for whoever you miss, here or there, just know I’m in your corner. It doesn’t have to be your best friend in the world and it doesn’t have to be recent. Grief never stops. You are valid.
Dear Bizzle, I love you so much. I miss you every day. I will never stop speaking your name. You are my everything and more. I dedicate this and many more words to you.
We all love and miss you here at The Gatepost.
What ‘Frankenstein’ can teach us about IVF
By Kate Norrish Staff Writer
To celebrate Halloween, I recently watched the 1935 film “The Bride of Frankenstein.” While I enjoyed the movie, I did not immediately understand why so many people say it is better than the 1931 prequel “Frankenstein.” After doing some research to understand where people were coming from, I fell down a rabbit hole of queer culture, infant mortality rates, and in vitro fertilization (IVF) that gave me a new appreciation for my own existence.
I am the product of IVF - a process where an egg and sperm cell are combined outside of the human body by doctors, then inserted into a uterus. This is used as an alternative to become pregnant as an option besides sexual intercourse.
I have seen many people refer to folks like me as “frankenbabies,” as a derogatory term. While I understand why others may find that insulting, I personally embrace the label. In fact, I don’t think that analogy does anything but support that IVF is a wonderful and safe option to have children.
Mary Shelley, right before writing “Frankenstein,” had a daughter who died a few days after birth. In fact, it was like-
ly that she was pregnant while writing a decent portion of the book. She then spent a large portion of her life struggling to birth children that were healthy enough to survive infancy. Therefore, Frankenstein may reflect her desire for an artificial method to have a child.
However, if the original novel, and the 1931 “Frankenstein” film have undertones on IVF philosophy, “The Bride of Frankenstein” places it front and center of what’s going on.
What most interested me when watching “The Bride of Frankenstein” was the character of Dr. Pretorius, a mad scientist who inserts himself into Frankenstein’s life so he can assist in Pretorius’ desire to make a child.
The reason he gives is an inability to create a full person “from seed.” There are a variety of ways to interpret this, the most common being that Pretorius is gay and feels he cannot have biological children. The actor who portrays him, Ernest Thesiger, was openly queer and said he included elements of queer culture in his portrayal.
This could reflect that IVF is a common option for lesbian couples, who often use donated sperm. However, some have also suspected that Pretorius is intersex, infertile, or desires to be pregnant but cannot due to
being a cisgender man.
The true reason behind his choice is a personal one and the audience does not need to know. His actions completely reflect a parental desperation to have a child. The writers have stated that they would have made these themes more explicit if it weren’t for the time period’s restrictions.
A common criticism of IVF is that the resulting children are unhealthy. In reality, the likelihood that a child born from IVF will have more health struggles than one born through sex is so slight it’s arguable if it even exists, according to CNY Fertility.
The efforts Pretorius takes to ensure his child will be healthy reflects both the scientists and parents involved in ensuring IVF’s safety. We see him meticulously make and inspect organs to make sure they are healthy, and while he is ultimately one of the villains of the film, he is nothing but respectful toward the bodies of both the creature and the bride.
In the original book, and every adaptation that I am aware of, no one is afraid to discard organs, including fully formed brains, if they would not make for a functioning person. This reminds me of one of the biggest arguments against IVF and abortion - that zygotes are human
beings which cannot ethically be “killed.” Therefore, because IVF has a high rate of miscarriage, the practice should be banned.
While the reasoning is true, according to Felicity IVF, this normally happens within the first 19 weeks of pregnancy, before the vast majority of the brains and organs are formed, according to the Cleveland Clinic. However, in every version of “Frankenstein” I’ve seen, the characters, along with doctors in real life, routinely dispose of unusable organs.
How is it more ethical to discard fully formed organs than a barely developed cluster of cells that may be harming the pregnant person? Especially considering that babies born from IVF are created with far more care and moral consideration than Frankenstein and Pretorius’ creations.
IVF has allowed approximately 13 million children to enter the world, and the first child born from the practice, Louise Brown, advocates for legal IVF, according to The BBC.
Both of our parents are Pretoriuses - not Dr. Frankensteins, which has allowed us to be happy and unaffected by the fact that we were conceived in a petri dish.
Campus Conversations
“What is your Ram’s Den Grille order?”
By Sophia Oppedisano, Editor-in-Chief and Alexis Schlesinger, Editorial Staff
“Chicken bacon ranch quesadilla!”
- (Left) Morgan Silen, junior, Ellen Lopes, junior, Tahnyia Black, senior
“I get a six-piece boneless tenders with barbeque sauce, and that’s itevery single time.”
- Ayden Giombetti, junior
“I get the traditional buffalo wings with blue cheese dipping sauce.”
- Isabela Guimaraes, sophomore
“I get the double smashburger with fries and then a drink as well.”
- Aricin Griffin, freshman
“The barbeque chicken boneless wings, fried dough, or sometimes just fries.”
- Liv St. Louis, junior
Football crushes Dean College on Senior Day
By Izabela Gage Sports Editor
The Framingham State Rams surged past the Dean College Bulldogs 31-6 in their Senior Day game on their home turf Nov. 8. This win brings their conference record to 6-2 and their overall record to 6-3.
Dean’s opening kickoff from their own 35-yard line was field ed by junior defensive back Khalil Erazo, who blazed 77 yards down the sideline to the Bulldogs’ 5-yard line before being forced out of bounds. The Framingham sideline erupted as the offense took over with first and goal.
Sophomore running back Ja heim Daniels powered the first drive, pushing through for short gains as the Bulldogs’ defense held firm inside their 5-yard line.
After three tries, the Rams set tled for a 24-yard field goal from sophomore wide receiver Ty Kel ley at the 12:50 mark, putting Framingham up 3-0.
Dean tried to respond on their ensuing possession but quickly met resistance. Their quarter back was sacked for a 5-yard loss by the Rams’ defensemen.
After a 1-yard rush, senior de fensive end Kymauny Roland in tercepted a pass, but it was called back on a personal foul.
The Bulldogs reached the Rams’ 10-yard line but couldn’t capitalize.
Senior defensive lineman Au gustus Granata forced an incom plete pass on second down.
On third down, junior cor nerback Devine Johnson burst through for a sack that forced a Bulldogs’ field goal attempt, but the 33-yard kick came up short.
With 5:58 left in the first quar ter, freshman quarterback Mi chael Marcucella and the offense took over at their own 20-yard line.
Marcucella wasted no time, connecting with wide receivers Mathias Fowler, Stephen Gal lant, and Ayden Ramirez for large gains that quickly advanced the ball into Bulldog territory.
Despite a false start penalty, the Rams’ rhythm stayed intact. Marcucella successfully passed to Ramirez again, this time for a 24-yard touch down, giving Framingham a commanding 10-0 lead after Kelley made the extra point.
Dean’s offense sputtered once more on their next drive, with a sack by Roland and sophomore Gabe Grzyboski. The Bulldogs managed just three plays before punting.
With under a minute left in the quarter, the Rams got the ball back at their own 43-yard line.
passes fell short, and on fourth down, Johnson and senior linebacker Blake Barron crashed through for a sack that lost 17 yards.
Taking over at Dean’s 39-yard line, Framingham looked poised to add to their lead. Marcucella connected with Gallant and sophomore wide receiver Adrian Sarrette, but penalties halted the
the half.
The Rams nearly extended their lead when Marcucella connected with Sarrette for a 24yard gain to the Dean’s 41-yard line, but a sack and interception ended the half.
The Rams came out of halftime determined with strong momentum.
On Dean’s first play, Foster
Crump intercepted a pass at the Dean’s 39-yard line, handing the ball right back to Framingham.
The offense stayed aggressive, with sophomore running back Januel Perez running hard for 11 yards before the Bulldogs forced a fumble. After the Rams recovered the ball, on fourth down, Dean intercepted a pass to earn possession of the ball with less than 5 minutes in the game.
Marcucella continued to push the pace, completing a 14-yard pass to Daniels, but a holding call nullified a big gain.
After a short completion, the quarter closed with Framingham in the lead 10-0, maintaining their momentum.
The Rams opened the second quarter facing fourth and six at their own 47-yard line.
Marcucella’s pass to Kelley fell incomplete, turning the ball over to Dean.
But Framingham’s defense refused to budge. The Bulldogs’
was his second of the half, turning the ball over on downs.
With 3:50 remaining in the half, Framingham’s offense went back to work.
Marcucella spread the field, finding Daniels, junior Jonathan Pope, and freshman Jamel Kearse to march to the Dean 2-yard line.
But after a pair of short runs, Marcucella’s pass on fourth down was intercepted at the goal line and returned 100 yards for a Dean touchdown.
Erazo blocked the extra point, and Framingham still led 10-6 heading into the final seconds of
Morales, opened Dean’s first drive of the fourth quarter with a short completion before being pushed backward by Johnson and Perrin.
On fourth down, Morales’s pass fell incomplete, turning the ball back to the Rams.
Framingham’s offense focused on controlling possession and the clock.
Daniels ripped off runs for short gains, but a fumble later in the drive gave Dean the ball back. Despite this, the Rams’ defense immediately answered.
Just a few plays later, sophomore defensive back Melvon
On Dean’s next possession, following two Framingham penalties, the Bulldogs made some small gains, but freshman safety Jizaiah Candelario stuffed a run for a 6-yard loss.
Freshman linebacker Isaac Stubbs recovered a fumble that officially extinguished any hopes of a comeback.
Framingham ran out the clock behind Perez and freshman running back Alvin Williams, while an unnecessary roughness penalty on Dean pushed the Rams
When the final whistle blew, Framingham celebrated their 31-6 victory on the field.
Gerrior said, “The offensive line was sensational, creating a huge push and opening up incredible rush lanes. Got to give them a ton of credit for that strong second-half rushing from
Marcucella made 14 of his 23 pass attempts and tallied 159 passing yards.
Gerrior made four of his 12 attempts, recorded 36 passing yards, 33 rushing yards, and scored one touchdown for the Gerrior said, “When a team stacks the box to prevent the run, you know that the passing game will open up. They sent blitzes to try and blow up the backfield, but our offensive line did a great job picking up on the blitzes and sticking to their assignments.”
Kelley made four out of four extra point attempts and made a 24-yard field goal.
He said he stayed consistent with kicking by “trusting my holder and knowing he was going to put the ball down in the correct spot.
“I was a little nervous for the field goal because it was my first college kick since high school, but I just trusted the process and put it through the uprights,” he
The Rams travel to Worcester State to face the Lancers in their last regular-season game Nov.
Gerrior said it is incredibly fascinating how young the team is. “The future is very bright, and to say we have had a pretty successful season so far is amazing. We will continue to grow and have a great offseason as a team. [I’m] looking forward to it!”
Kelley said, “The biggest thing we are focusing on is consistency and focus. We are nearing the playoffs and hoping to punch a ticket through, and if we do, we have to be ready to play.”
Stats sourced from fsurams.com and MASCAC.com
CONNECT WITH IZABELA GAGE igage@student.framingham.edu
Adrien Gobin / THE GATEPOST
Women’s basketball beats Ravens in home opener
By Izabela Gage Sports Editor
The Framingham State Rams defeated the Rivier University Ravens 82-53 in a non-conference matchup Nov. 12.
This win brings their overall record to 2-0.
Junior Ava Mckeon said, “Starting off the season 2-0 lights a fire underneath our team. It sets the tone for us to bring the energy and excitement to each and every game we will continue to face.”
Sophomore Shaelagh Green said, “Our on-court chemistry has already grown so much in the early part of this year. It’s a long season, but we’re starting off in the direction we want to go in!”
Captain Kelsey Yelle, a senior, said she is very happy with their successful start to the season. “The ultimate goal is to always win, and so being able to start 2-0 sets the tone in a way that shows that we came out from the start ready for this year and that we want to do better than last year. We always hold each other accountable, and to high standards.”
Framingham set the tone right from the opening minutes, building early momentum that earned them a decisive win.
After Rivier’s Gianna Donato missed an early layup, Captain Abigail Martin, a senior, grabbed the defensive rebound and sparked the Rams’ offense.
Senior Kiara Cerruti quickly converted with a layup to put Framingham on the board, and she followed up with a steal and a smooth jump shot, giving the Rams a 4-0 lead.
Rivier responded with a layup, but Martin calmly hit two free throws to stretch the lead back to four.
The Rams’ defense, led by Martin and Yelle, was assertive on every possession.
Martin and Yelle forced multiple turnovers and rebounds, frustrating Rivier’s attempts to find rhythm.
A jump shot from sophomore Jacqueline Schels extended the Rams’ lead to 8-2 midway through the first quarter.
Cerruti continued to shine, scoring another jump shot off a Martin assist, forcing a Rivier timeout as Framingham went up 10-2.
The Rams’ energy stayed high after the timeout. Despite some missed opportunities around the rim, Framingham’s hustle on the glass and defense never wavered.
Martin, Cerruti, and Schels dominated the boards, while junior Bryanna Grant and freshman Zaria Anderson came off the bench to provide strong defensive minutes.
Martin closed the quarter by sinking two clutch free throws, and Framingham ended the first period with a 12-6 advantage.
In the second quarter, Framingham’s offensive rhythm hit another gear.
After a substitution, Mckeon drilled a three-pointer from the wing off a crisp pass by Yelle, extending the Rams’ lead to 15-6.
Rivier tried to respond, but the Rams’ depth proved too much.
Martin continued to control the paint, scoring on a layup off an assist from freshman Evi Higgins, while Cerruti and Schels kept capitalizing on secondchance opportunities.
The Rams’ defensive rotation was airtight, as every Rivier possession was met by a swarm of Framingham defenders.
Cerruti’s steals and timely rebounds set the stage for back-toback layups by Schels, giving the Rams a double-digit cushion.
Even as Rivier’s Donato hit a late bucket, Framingham carried a confident 28-21 lead into halftime.
Coming out of the break, the Rams continued to build their advantage.
Martin set up Cerruti for a deep three-pointer early in the third, a sequence that ignited the Framingham bench and fans alike.
Schels added a layup, assisted once again by Martin, while Cerruti’s quick hands created several steals that translated into fast-break points.
Anderson joined in the scoring run with a clutch three-pointer that pushed the Rams ahead 3625.
Green and sophomore Bridget
Trainor came off the bench and immediately made an impact, knocking down key jumpers to maintain the Rams’ momentum.
Midway through the third, the Rams went on a 10-point run fueled by relentless defense.
Cerruti’s layup made it 49-30, forcing yet another Rivier timeout.
By the end of the third quarter, the Rams led comfortably, 60-35, behind an all-around team effort.
Framingham closed strong in the fourth quarter, with Cerruti opening the frame with another three-pointer, assisted by Trainor.
Mckeon and Yelle combined for steady free-throw shooting to keep the Rams firmly in control.
Anderson and Green continued to dominate the inside, each converting on layups.
Trainor added a deep three to make it 72-39, effectively sealing the game.
Despite some late scoring by Rivier, the Rams’ bench maintained the pressure.
Green poured in several more baskets down the stretch, and sophomore Haleigh Cyrus made a layup off an assist by Grant.
Higgins finished scoring for the Rams with one of her own.
Rivier made one last jump shot to close the deficit to 82-53, still in favor of Framingham.
When the buzzer sounded, the Rams stood tall with a commanding win.
Yelle said, “The team handled Rivier’s offense throughout the game with great defense. Our communication on the court is what makes our defense good, and being able to stop Rivier from making plays.
“We knew before the game started about who Rivier had as their leading scorers, so our goal was to make sure we shut them down so they don’t get hot on shooting and making plays,” she added.
Mckeon said she thinks the team was able to “come out in the second half and adapt to
their style of play. At first, we wanted to feel them out and see which players could do what, but after halftime and discussing what our areas of weakness were in the moment, we decided on a better game plan to cover their offense.”
Green said, “Offensively, our team is always looking to make the extra pass to get the best scoring option. Defensively, we rely on each other through communication. When everyone is locked in the energy we have feeds off each other. Knowing we have each other’s backs helps with confidence on both ends of the court.”
Schels said, “Throughout the game, I think we did really well on defense, and we were really connected. After halftime, we got way more settled in and more comfortable, which helped us pull away.”
Schels earned MASCAC Player of the Week Nov. 10 after scoring 15 points with nine rebounds while shooting 54.5 percent from the floor in the Rams’ 68-56 win over Salve Regina.
Schels said being recognized by the conference is “a great way to start, but I try not to think about it too much and let things take care of themselves.”
The Rams host Brandeis University to face the Owls on their home court for a non-conference game Nov. 15.
Green said the team has been focusing on “cleaning up the little things this week. Brandeis is a competitive team, so we need to come out strong and play together the entire game.”
Mckeon said, “As we head into Brandeis, the team is working on bettering our communication on both ends of the floor, and using all of our skills as a team, to push the ball and run our offense to execute smoothly.”
Stats sourced from fsurams.com and MASCAC.com
CONNECT WITH IZABELA GAGE igage@student.framingham.edu
Izabela Gage / THE GATEPOST
(Front) Jacqueline Schels passing the ball in win against Rivier University Nov. 12.
Izabela Gage / THE GATEPOST
(Front) Macy Vine going for a layup in win against Rivier University Nov. 12.
Volleyball advances to MASCAC Championship
By Taylor Kimmell Asst. Sports Editor
The Framingham State Rams dominated the first round of MASCAC Tournament play, sweeping the Salem State Vikings 3-0 Nov. 11.
The Rams entered the playoffs seeded third in the conference, with a conference record of 6-2 and an overall record of 17-12.
Framingham set the tone for the set immediately, scoring three points before Salem could find enough footing to put up one. These points came on a kill by junior Emma Dobbins, a block by junior Natalie Reynolds, and an error by the Vikings.
After Salem earned a point on a kill, Reynolds, assisted by Captain Stella Bailey, a senior, forced a block error from the Vikings, bringing the score to 4-2.
Salem put up two more points, forcing Framingham to kick it into gear. Reynolds, junior Jamie Moniz, and sophomore Sarah Medeiros all contributed to the Rams’ score with kills.
Another kill by Medeiros and several good plays by the Vikings brought the score to 12-9 with FSU still holding onto the lead.
With Moniz bringing in another point on a kill, the Rams continued to play strong offense.
Forcing four attack errors from Salem, Framingham’s lead grew, raising the score to 15-10.
Reynolds tallied three more kills with two assisted by Bailey and one assisted by junior Jaimee Lowe.
A quick timeout taken by Salem yielded one more point for the Vikings, but Framingham wasted no time jumping back into offensive action.
Kills by Reynolds and Medeiros as well as errors by SSU added to the Rams’ score.
A kill by Moniz closed out the opening set, with Framingham winning by a startling 11-point margin of 25-14.
Framingham turned up the
Women’s
By Avery Slavin Staff Writer
heat in the second set, starting out with a 4-point scoring streak with two kills by Reynolds and one by sophomore Madysen Cedrone, as well as a service ace by freshman Kristina SantiagoAlers.
On the next volley, Salem broke through the Rams’ defense to score a singular point on a kill.
The Vikings struggled to maintain their composure against Framingham’s strong returns, never coming within less than two points of the lead during the second set.
Cedrone, Reynolds, and Moniz contributed to the score with kills while Bailey tallied a service ace. Following these plays, the score was 9-5.
Salem put up a few points, but a kill from Dobbins, as well as two by Reynolds and Cedrone, the Vikings continued to lag behind.
With a serve by Lowe, a series of good volleys began. Eventually, Reynolds, with a decisive swing, sent a hard ball over the net that the Vikings were unable to return.
Following that play, Salem broke through on offense, scoring three points before Framingham regained control of the match after a service error by SSU.
FSU’s next point came from a kill by Moniz assisted by Bailey to bring the score to 21-14, with Salem at a significant deficit.
SSU earned three more points during the set, but was unable to keep pace with the Rams. After a kill by Dobbins and a service ace by junior Anneli DiVirgilio, Framingham secured their second set victory with a score of 25-18.
The third set of the match began similarly to the second, with the Rams scoring three consecutive points before Salem could find enough rhythm to secure any.
Kills by Cedrone and Reynolds kick-started Framingham’s mo-
mentum, gaining a 4-1 lead for the Rams early in the set.
A kill by Moniz followed suit, as well as a service ace by Reynolds.
Framingham’s offense forced several more attack and service errors from the Vikings, and, along with a kill each by Dobbins, Cedrone, and Reynolds, the Rams pulled even farther ahead, bringing the score to 12-7.
Battling back after a kill by Cedrone, the Vikings increased their speed of play. With two kills from their offense, as well as several forced errors from Framingham, Salem decreased their deficit to just one point.
A kill by Medeiros increased FSU’s score to 14, but Salem continued to find success on offense, tying the match with two kills.
After one more kill by the Vikings, they acquired the lead for the first time.
The Rams jumped right back into action to reclaim the advantage. Assisted by Bailey, Moniz accumulated two kills, and defensive plays caused errors from Salem, bringing the score back in favor of the Rams 19-15.
A block by the defensive duo of Moniz and Medeiros caused an attack error by the Vikings.
Assisted by Bailey, Medeiros tallied another kill. Bailey stepped up once again to set the ball for Cedrone to earn another point on a kill.
A play by DiVirgilio proved unreturnable for SSU, resulting in an attack error.
On an attack error by Framingham, Salem earned a point.
The final sets of the game yielded aggressive plays from both teams. Salem and Framingham battled it out for the final four sets, each longer than the last.
Framingham’s plays yielded another error by the Vikings after a series of volleys.
SSU attempted to battle back, scoring once more on a kill.
A kill by Reynolds, yet again assisted by Bailey, brought the score to 24-18 and the Rams within a point of moving on to the next round of the MASCAC tournament.
A perfectly executed serve by Captain Carly Beaulieu, a senior, evaded digs by the Vikings’ defense, ending a decisive third set and securing the Rams’ spot in the semifinal match.
As of press time, the Rams eliminated the Westfield State Owls 3-2 in the semifinal round Nov. 13. This win advances Framingham to the championship match against the Bridgewater State Bears Nov. 15.
Stats sourced from fsurams.com and MASCAC.com
CONNECT WITH TAYLOR KIMMELL tkimmell@student.framingham.edu
ice hockey struggles against Worcester St.
was saved by Worcester’s goalie Kelsey Czerniawski.
Chamoun saved another goal attempt from the Lancers.
The Framingham State Rams fell to the Worcester State Lancers in a matchup on Nov. 8.
This brings their record to 0-3.
The Rams won the initial faceoff, but the Lancers were able to steal the puck from Framingham and make their first shot, which was saved by sophomore goaltender Lila Chamoun.
Sophomore Alyssa Tansek gained possession of the puck and sent it toward the net, but it
Chamoun stayed strong on defense, blocking two more shots from the Lancers.
The Rams stayed aggressive and tried to cross the goal line four times before freshman Molly Murphy scored the first goal of the game during a power play, assisted by sophomore Sarah Lewis and freshman Alexis Brown.
Following Framingham’s power play, the Lancers remained persistent on offense, but couldn’t manage to get the puck past Chamoun.
In the last 5 minutes of the first period, both teams fought hard for the puck, and Chamoun and Czerniawski went back and forth defending their nets.
Within the first 40 seconds of the second period, Emily St. Johns scored Worcester’s first goal, assisted by Abbey Millman.
During a power play for Framingham, the Lancers took another shot, but Chamoun was quick to save the attempt.
Less than two minutes later, Kaia Carlson and Princess Delano assisted Madelyn Franta in
Worcester’s second goal, putting them ahead of the Rams by one point.
Framingham stayed strong on offense, with goal attempts from freshman Rose Brien, sophomore Adrianna Rizzotto, and sophomore Ruby Boucher, all of which were unsuccessful.
Murphy tried to put another point on the board for the Rams, but was unable to get the puck past the goal line.
During another power play in favor of Worcester, Millan and Avery Ireland assisted Cailey St. Ryan in scoring another goal for the Lancers.
Chamoun kept fighting, blocking six more goal attempts from Worcester before the end of the second period.
Lewis started the third period with a goal attempt, but was unable to hit the back of the net.
Two minutes later, during a power play, Lea Gasper sent the puck straight into the net, giving Worcester their fourth point of the game.
Chamoun didn’t allow the Lancers to score another goal, making 12 more saves throughout the last period.
Lewis, Murphy, Tansek, and
sophomore Jamie Webster all tried to launch the puck past Czerniawski, but were unsuccessful.
The game ended with a score of 4-1.
While the game was a hardfought loss, Murphy was named MASCAC Rookie of the Week Nov. 10, after earning her first collegiate goal!
Chamoun ended the game with 34 saves, which is no small achievement.
She said, “Worcester State is one of the top teams in our league, so we know every game against them is going to be a battle. Getting off to a strong start and putting pressure on them early was huge for us.
“Being only in our second year as a program, games like this are super important because they give us opportunities to keep building and getting better every day,” she added.
The Rams take on the Salem State Vikings away for another conference game Nov. 14.
Stats sourced from fsurams.com and MASCAC.com
CONNECT WITH AVERY SLAVIN aslavin1@student.framingham.edu
Adrien Gobin / THE GATEPOST
(Left) Stella Bailey, Madysen Cedrone, Jamie Moniz, and Emma Dobbins celebrating a point in quarterfinal sweep against Salem St. Nov. 11.
Adrien Gobin / THE GATEPOST Petra Cernicek skating with the puck during the 2024-25 season.
ARTS & FEATURES
Rams that keep us running
Mike Miles and Amir Minas’ friendship and fRAMily pride
By Dylan Pichnarcik Associate Editor
Black pants, black shirts, and a black baseball cap - no, they aren’t Hollywood stars trying to avoid the paparazzi. However, they might just be campus celebrities.
If you’ve been to Ram’s Den Grille - chances are you’ve met Mike Miles and Amir Minas, both campus restaurant supervisors for FSU’s Dining Services.
Mike has worked for Dining Services for 16 years. Amir joined him at The Grille eight years ago after owning a convenience store in Boston for 14 years.
A typical day for the two begins at 3 p.m. starting with restocking and preparation for the evening’s dinner service.
During the evening, both work to take orders, prepare late-night snacks, and serve students who need a late-night study spot or a place to hang out with friends.
In addition to his tasks at The Grille, Mike makes cold brew on Sundays for the on-campus Dunkin’ and Red Barn Cafe.
If you haven’t been to The Grille, it is tucked next to the McCarthy Center Forum and is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
The Grille is an à la carte dining option on campus that accepts cash, credit cards, Ram’s Cash, and Dining Dollars.
Its extensive menu features popular items such as a campus favorite - the chicken bacon ranch quesadilla - along with
burgers, fries, chicken tenders and wings, and a Thursday night special - fried dough.
Mike said he was grateful for his schedule at The Grille, and it gave him the opportunity to have the summers off, spend time with his wife, and raise his son.
Mike and Amir - self-proclaimed best friends - said they have enjoyed working together and see each other frequently during semester breaks.
Mike said, “He’s my best friend, he really is.”
He added when Amir joined Dining Services, he trained him on how to work in food service.
“Amir came in halfway through my 16 years here, he was great. He followed me around for two weeks, and our relationship became not just
during his weeks in training.
In addition to their friendship, Amir and Mike said they value the relationships they’ve formed with students.
“It makes me feel very happy, especially after you serve students something that you like. It’s that ‘Oh, thank you, it looks very nice. It looks great.’ It makes me happy - It makes me very happy,” Amir said.
Mike said, “The first year, freshman year, sophomore year, they’re just learning. And then before you know it, you get to talk to them and it’s like in a restaurant, a regular customer or whatever. You know what they eat, you know what they like.”
He added the two met and formed a connection with a student who during his fresh-
“Now, he comes in every day and we know everything about him,” Mike said.
Amir added he enjoys talking with the student about football and the student now wears Patriots gear.
If you’re looking for a recommendation on what to order at The Grille take Mike and Amir’s advice, a grilled buffalo chicken quesadilla with American cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes.
When asked what the most popular menu item at The Grille was, Amir was hesitant. However, Mike chuckled and nudged Amir, “Come on, you know. Which one?” he said.
To which Amir responded, the chicken bacon ranch quesadilla.
Kianna Bauer, equal oppor-
“It makes me feel very happy, especially after you serve students something that you like. It’s that ‘Oh, thank you, it looks very nice. It looks great.’ It makes me happy - It makes me very happy.”
- Amir Minas Campus Restaurant Supervisor
work, but we hang outside of work.”
Amir agreed with Mike that their friendship blossomed
man year wore a Philadelphia Eagles jersey. “We started saying ‘Oh jeez, you’re an Eagles fan.’
tunity and Title IX specialist, said her order at The Grille is a buffalo chicken quesadilla, which was recommended to her by a dispatcher in the FSU Police Department.
Bauer said she met Mike and Amir while working at The Snack Bar and they are “the best!”
Sabrina Grammatic, program coordinator for the Center for Student Experience & Career Development, said her favorite menu item at The Grille is three chicken tenders.
She said Mike and Amir are very nice and she always enjoys her time at The Grille.
Senior César Matos said his favorite meal at The Grille is a chicken bacon ranch quesadilla, and that Mike and Amir “do a phenomenal job.”
Junior David Singh said he orders the grilled chicken quesadilla.
Senior Oscar Rubyck said he switches his order at The Grille, alternating between a chicken bacon ranch quesadilla or boneless buffalo wings with barbeque sauce.
He said Amir and Mike are “awesome and make really good food, so I really recommend them.”
Dylan Pichnarcik / THE GATEPOST
(Left) Amir Minas and Mike Miles posing with their arms around each other in front of Ram’s Den Grille.
Continued from Page 1
She said Ransome has completed several murals for the Children’s Museum in Indianapolis, Indiana, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, Ohio, and the Hemphill Branch Library in Greensboro, North Carolina.
His work can be found in both private and public art collections throughout the country, she added.
Cline-Ransome said they met each other as sophomores at the Pratt Institute at a party.
“After we began dating, James helped me with all of my art assignments and I helped him with all of his writing assignments, and I think that’s how we both instinctively knew we would be good collaborators in work and in life,” Cline-Ransome said.
He was born in Rich Square, North Carolina. It’s a small town that gave him limited opportunities, Ransome said.
The schools he attended didn’t teach art and there were no museums around to see artwork, he said.
His first “art teachers” came from “Looney Tunes” and the comic books the next door drug store sold, he said.
Ransome said one of his favorite comic books that he learned from was “Master of Kung Fu.”
He added some people may be more familiar with the movie it inspired - “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings.”
He would create stories about him and his friends based on the comics, he added.
“What I liked about this artist who created this comic book was how he would often introduce animals and other things that were not necessarily written into the comic book story,” Ransome said.
Ransome grew up with his grandmother, but she eventually moved in with one of her children, he said. He moved in with his mother in Birmingham, New Jersey.
He said he got lucky because the school he went to had “an amazing art program.”
He spent most of his time there making films, he added.
Cline-Ransome is from Massachusetts and is the youngest of three, she said.
Both of her parents were nurses and they “nurtured my curiosity and my love of writing,” she said.
She said her father was a music fan.
Now, Cline-Ransome has speakers in every room of her home, she added.
She said she is also like her mother, who was an avid reader and regular library visitor.
She didn’t like history much as a kid even though now she writes historical fiction for children, she added.
Cline-Ransome said, “I was never a huge fan of history. As a child, it seemed as if history was just dates, and battles, and old white men.
“What I didn’t know was that history is really interconnected stories of people from our pasts,” she said.
Cline-Ransome and Ransome differ in how they connect with books, she said. She focuses on the words and lyricism.
Ransome said he also loves
the words, but he’s more drawn to the pictures and how it’s designed.
Cline-Ransome said, “We could look at a book and James is like ‘Weren’t those illustrations amazing?’ and then I say things like ‘What illustrations?’”
When writing biographies of people in history, she also writes the biography of the country, she said.
“Like any well-balanced, accurate biography I need to write not just about the accomplishments and the successes of my subject but the obstacles faced, the inconsistencies, and the flaws,” Cline-Ransome said.
When writing about John Lewis, a congressman and one of the leaders of the civil rights movement, she was also writing about his hometown and the social movement across the country at the time, she said.
When Lewis died, Ransome reached out to one of his editors about doing a book about him, and the editor agreed almost immediately, he said.
Cline-Ransome agreed to write it.
They shared some scenes from the book, “Fighting with Love: The Legacy of John Lewis,” which depicted Lewis as a kid growing up in segregation.
Cline-Ransome read, “Election Day meant whites only could pick the laws, mayors, and presidents. John hated that colored folks had to stick to picking cotton.”
Ransome said one of his favorite pieces in the book is a scene where Lewis is listening to one of Martin Luther King Jr.’s speeches over the radio. The illustration showed Lewis sitting in a chair, which Ransome described as “embracing him.”
Ransome shared his newest book, “A Place For Us,” which he called a “wordless book,” relying on the illustrations for the story.
He explained the story as he went through the book, which is about an unhoused Black mother and her son.
He wanted to start the story with scenes most children and their parents are familiar with, such as being picked up from school, he said.
“The only difference is they don’t go to a house to spend the night,” Ransome said.
He wanted the story to bring up a conversation about the topic in classrooms, he said.
Cline-Ransome said they’re often asked, “What is it like working together as a married couple?”
She said she believes people imagine them as working sideby-side, when in reality they use separate spaces.
They work on opposite sides of their home because they have different work styles, she added.
“James likes to start work at an unfathomable hour and his eyes spring open at 5 in the morning. He’s off to the studio. He also listens to music, movies nonstop. I need silence,” Cline-Ransome said.
Her room is lined with bookcases because “it’s impossible to be a writer without first being a reader,” she said.
Ransome said his studio was added to the house a couple years after they moved in.
In the studio is a desk he’s had since high school, he added.
“We’ve gone to college to-
gether. It’s been our first dining room table. It’s been stored in the closet. It’s been lots of different things, but for the last 20 years, I’d say it’s been mostly a table I paint on,” Ransome said.
Cline-Ransome said she wanted to foster an elderly pit bull named Miles Morales, but her family insisted she wasn’t cut out to foster.
They told her that “the instant the dog came into the house and spent the night I would never be able to let him go. … ‘Don’t be ridiculous’ … ‘Of course I could foster a dog.’”
She took Miles in and bought him a bed for her office, she said. She also bought him a bed for her bedroom, and the family room, and the kitchen.
“I noticed that after years of sleeping in shelters, he was somehow no longer able to sleep on a hard floor,” she said.
She ended up adopting Miles, and although he was diagnosed with cancer shortly afterward, his remaining time was spent with good food, toys, and love as she wrote her stories, she said.
Cline-Ransome said throughout the historic stories they’ve worked on they have found accounts of people using every resource available to create a better life for themselves and future generations.
She said, “Black people, who were under the constant threat of violence, discrimination, and intimidation, work together. They built community, they migrated, they escaped.
“They fought for civil rights and equal rights. They created. They outperformed. They dreamed. They reported. They sat down and they stood up. They kept secrets, and they lived to see another day. This is how they survived, and because they did, so did we,” Cline-Ransome said.
She said Black Americans worked to educate their children ever since enslavement and throughout history.
“The fight for education is a story of resistance,” she said.
She and her husband made a book titled “They Call Me Teach: Lessons in Freedom,” which is about an enslaved man nicknamed Teach, she said.
In the story, Teach, who was taught how to read and write by a friend of the owner’s family, secretly teaches others, she said.
“During enslavement, Black people learned in secret, late at night after working all day, often risking punishment and sometimes death, to get an education,” Cline-Ransome said.
After slavery ended, Black people built schools to make sure their children were educated, she said.
They also started newspapers to “share news, to reunite families, and to build on their dreams of hope and freedom,” she added.
She said in 1879, thousands of Black Americans went westward to claim land that she recognized was originally stolen from Indigenous people as part of the Homestead Act of 1862.
The Black Americans who successfully built on the land “settled in communities and built all-Black towns,” she said.
Cline-Ransome said she used to wonder if there were any Black pioneers, and she found out there were and they were called exodusters.
“They were the first, largest, mass exodus of African Americans who migrated from the South, seeking out the vision of the promised land in the West,” she said.
In order to learn more about them, she traveled to several western states, she added.
She learned about Black communities that had formed in Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, and New Mexico.
The Q&A session was led by English Professor Jennifer De Leon.
De Leon said their presentation was “so inspiring, entertaining, [and] informative.”
In their presentation, she saw “windows and mirrors,” De Leon said. She saw “mirrors” in familiar aspects such as their offices, pets, and bookshelves, while she saw “windows” in unfamiliar aspects such as the illustration work process.
She asked if there were any classroom experiences they’d like to share.
Cline-Ransome said she finds it fascinating to go into classrooms, talk about her books, and have both students and teachers ask her, “That really happened?”
Writing historic books can be discouraging, especially because it’s not the most popular genre, she said.
“People prefer fantasy over history. Truth, I think, is really frightening to people,” she said.
Ransome said he focuses on what is on the posters and signs around the classroom.
De Leon asked about what people can do about art programs not being provided in many schools.
Ransome said he didn’t know if he had any solutions but he thinks about how he might have ended up if he hadn’t moved to a school with an art program.
CONNECT WITH FRANCISCO OMAR FERNANDEZ RODRIGUEZ ffernandezrodriguez@student.framingham.edu
Alexis Schlesinger / THE GATEPOST
The works of Lesa Cline-Ransome and James E. Ransome on display at Swiacki Lit. Fest.
‘Taste of Culture’ kicks off Native American History Month
By Sarah Daponde Asst. Arts & Features Editor
The Center for Inclusive Excellence collaborated with members of the Natick Nipmuc Tribal Community to host a “Taste of Culture” event on Nov. 12 to celebrate Native American History Month.
The “Taste of Culture” series, hosted in the CIE, celebrates an array of cultures through traditional cuisine and community engagement.
President Nancy Niemi attended the event and said, “I love that we are expanding our definitions of diversity. … Diversity is what we do every day and our different communities are a part of us.”
Along with several Native American recipes, the event featured traditional Native
American flute playing and a table of artifacts attendees could examine.
Director of the Center for Inclusive Excellence Jerome Burke said this event is part of an effort for the University to build a connection with the Native Nipmuc tribe.
Burke welcomed Maria Turner, chairwoman and genealogist of the Nipmuc Tribe, Shani Turner, medicine woman of the Nipmuc Tribe, Tanya Thomas, treasurer of the Nipmuck Tribe, and Emma Jo Mills-Brennan, a Mashpee Wampanoag flutist who performed at the event.
He said FSU is on Indigenous land and it’s important to do more than just talk about that. He said creating programs and having members of the Nipmuc Tribe on campus helps students connect with them.
By Owen Glancy Arts & Features Editor
Of all the prolific, influential, and acclaimed artists throughout history, few can claim the level of prestige that William Shakespeare has. His name is so ubiquitous that even introducing him feels redundant, and his stories are so popular that many know them despite having never read a single page of text from them.
“Romeo and Juliet,” “Hamlet,” “King Lear,” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” are just some examples of Shakespeare’s works. Unsurprisingly, works so popular in the world of literature would be massive influences on the masters of cinema, with Japanese director Akira Kurosawa being no exception.
As the premier director out of Japan in the 1950s, Kurosawa made his name internationally with his samurai films, in particular “Rashomon” and “Seven Samurai.” However later in the decade he followed these up with another samurai classic, “Throne of Blood.”
Based on Shakespeare’s “Macbeth,” the film takes characters and plot points and adapts them to the setting of feudal Japan, a decision that would would mark the beginning of Kurosawa’s adaptations of Shakespeare, with
“A lot of the time, when we think about our Indigenous community, it seems very historic. But they’re living and breathing and they’re among us today, so we want our students on campus to really appreciate that,” Burke added.
The assortment of dishes included cornbread, a dish made with rice and beans called “Jog,” baked beans, fried cod with remoulade sauce, and Blueberry Slump. The dishes were all made at FSU with the help of the Nipmuc Tribe’s recipes.
Thomas, whose indigenous name is Fair Wind, said the Nipmuc community worked with the chefs at FSU to create the menu for the event, which Thomas said included foods their ancestors would have eaten.
Burke said he believes food is a great way for people to connect with each other and is at the center of many social gatherings.
“We’re talking about their food and their menu, and just having our community enjoy that,” he added.
He said he believes food preservation and security is a big part of social justice, especially in light of the recent uncertainty of SNAP benefits.
Shani Turner brought in turtle shells, ores used for fishing, and other artifacts. She said the focus of this year’s Taste of Culture event was food sovereignty.
She said their focus for the event was educating people on how to live a healthy life and
comparing pre-colonization and post-colonization food.
“I brought an engorged zucchini squash, which you would see today … in comparison to what a natural squash would look like, which would hold more nutrients and would sustain you more than this engorged one,” she added.
Community Resource Officer Andrew Frimpong attended the event. “It’s definitely good to come and learn about different cultures and see what’s going on,” he said.
Sophomore Ezra Mason said he believes hosting events like these at FSU builds a more diverse and accepting campus.
“I think it’s really important for us to be able to learn from each other and accept each other. I think to do that, we need to understand other cultures and the significance of certain practices,” Mason added.
Izayah Morgan, senior and diversity peer influencer for the CIE, helped set up and run the event.
“It’s so important to highlight different communities every month and I really love that Jerome acknowledges that we’re on taken land. I feel like it’s so important to have [the Nipmuc people] come in and grace us with their culture and their food,” Morgan added.
[ Editor’s Note: Izayah Morgan is the Opinions Editor for The Gatepost. ]
CONNECT WITH SARAH DAPONDE sdaponde@student.framingham.edu
his later films “Kagemusha” and “Ran” also taken from the playwright.
Needless to say, a film created by one of the greatest masters of cinema ever to live, adapted from one of the best works by arguably the greatest
pensive films ever made in Japan at the time, with a budget of $350,000 (around $4 million today). Every single cent of this film is felt on screen, with sweeping wide shots of grand castles and large armies, a scale that, while not nation-
playwright ever to live, is going to be a masterpiece.
“Throne of Blood” is the best of Kurosawa and Shakespeare rolled into one project. Kurosawa’s signature lighting and weather effects combine perfectly with his kinetic style of cinematography to tell this story of fate and betrayal in a way that emphasizes the immense scale of Shakespeare’s work.
This was one of the most ex-
ally unprecedented, was larger than ever for Kurosawa. The grand scope afforded by the high budget allowed Kurosawa to truly deliver on the grandiose nature of “Macbeth,” making for one of the best adaptations of the work to date.
It’s not just the production design that makes this film great, however, as the performances found within are some of the best seen in Kurosawa’s works. Toshiro Mifune, Kuro-
sawa’s regular leading man, plays Washizu and he delivers what might be a career-best performance. Washizu’s slow descent into madness is the best part of the film, thanks entirely to Mifune. His proud demeanor and ambitions of power at the beginning of the film are given just as much effort as his manic laughing fits and wild eyes of the later portion of the film.
Isuzu Yamada also gives a stellar performance as Lady Washizu, one that often stands toe-to-toe with Mifune. Her calm rationale and cunning manipulations of her husband to hasten the prophecy and secure greater power give her a level of agency not often seen in the female roles in samurai films of the time period.
“Throne of Blood” is a film that acts as not just another installment in Kurosawa’s filmography, but as the quintessential Kurosawa movie that also serves as one of, if not the greatest, adaptations of Shakespeare into the medium of film. It exists in the same space as “The Lion King” as a work that goes beyond both the artists who created it and became something more.
While many look toward the innovative storytelling of “Rashomon” or the fun, pulpy action of “Yojimbo” to be their introduction to Kurosawa, “Throne of Blood” is my personal pick for the perfect introduction to everything that makes Kurosawa and Japanese cinema as a whole so special.
“Throne of Blood” can be streamed on HBOmax and the Criterion Channel.
Adrien Gobin / THE GATEPOST
Emma Jo Mills-Brennan, a Mashpee Wampanoag flutist, performing Nov. 12.
‘Throne of Blood’
Marcus Falcão / THE GATEPOST
‘Pokémon Legends: Z-A’ - nearly legendary
By Paul Harrington Staff Writer
When “Pokémon Legends: Arceus” launched in January 2022, many fans including myself were impressed by the distinct change in the elements of gameplay.
The “Legends” spinoffs revisit regions that have already gotten mainline games but focus on different time periods.
“Legends: Arceus” was set in ancient Hisui, which was
fresh batch of new characters for fans to become acclimated with.
The thing that stood out the most though, was the return of Mega Evolutions.
In short, Mega Evolution is a phenomenon where certain Pokémon have enhanced fighting capabilities, and flashy designs.
“Legends: Z-A” was slated to release in October 2025 on the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2.
rious man referred to as “AZ” and three other trainers known as Lida, Naveen, and Taunie.
The game does a tremendous job of guiding you through the move, as you get a job your second day in the city - talk about easy money!
Surely the city is full of interactive establishments for you and your Poké pals to relax at. Although, Lumiose City looks cool at first, it gets very boring after a while.
generation six’s Lumiose City in the Kalos region.
Many fan-favorite characters from the Kalos region made their appearance, alongside a
it acts as a fresh slate for the character - a new life, a new city, and new memories!
Your new home is known as Hotel Z. It’s run by a myste-
23. Cowboys’ headwear
24. Boredom, from the French
26. Ireland, to Brian Boru
29. Berserk
Casino resort co.
Bluish green 8. Like flat, calm seas 14. Queer identity sometimes paired with “ace” 15. Fish such as ahi 16. Scold
17. ___ Mahal
18. Olive and sunflower, for two
19. Egyptian guide to the underworld
20. Red wine sometimes paired with cavatappi
22. “Halt, matey!”
30. Avoids, as an issue
32. Concert merch item
33. Warhol subject Zedong
In my opinion, where the game excels and stands out lies within its customization and character design.
Kalos was known for having stores that allowed you to buy clothes to customize your trainer.
This time around the stores are back and better than ever!
Clothes are not locked behind a specific gender, so you can buy and wear whatever clothes you want.
Your new life in Lumiose City is interlinked with the narrative of the game.
You cycle between day and night. During the day, you’re free to do whatever.
During the night, the battle zones emerge which allow for you to participate in the Z-A royale.
You start at rank Z, and fight all the way until you reach A.
In the grand scheme of things, the Z-A royale is not too hard and I felt like the battles could have used a tad bit more difficulty.
What was a good challenge however, were the Rogue Mega Evolution battles.
Throughout your stay in Lumiose City, you and your friends get tasked with fighting
35. He played Jesus Shuttlesworth in “He Got Game”
37. “Deck the Halls,” e.g.
40. Sports bar sets
41. Like a nerd
42. Hail Mary prayer
44. Obi-___ Kenobi
45. Nintendo console with exercise games
46. “Burnt” or “Toyota” follower
48. Title for Helen Mirren or Judi Dench
52. Hangs low
54. Brains vs. ___
55. “Manhattan Beach” author Jennifer
56. Inexperienced gamers
58. Speaking angrily
60. Hurricanes’ school, informally
62. He lived in Eden
63. Aunt, in Acapulco
64. Heartless guy?
65. Overall feel
66. Yalie
67. Some landscaping work
68. Sign such as an eclipse
69. Robert McCloskey character hidden in “tags along”
DOWN
1. Teahouse option
2. Kind of cracker used for s’mores
3. *What Austin Powers sought to regain
4. Lots
various Rogue Mega Evolved Pokémon.
These poor fellas suffer immense pain during this process, and lash out with their sheer force as a result.
The best way to counter a Rogue Mega is to use your own Mega, but some of the battles have attack patterns that are sure to throw you off once or twice.
Don’t get me wrong, “Legends: Z-A” is an amazing game, but I think it’s not wrong to want more from a game.
Certain aspects of the game felt like they deserved more content to satisfy players. Other aspects were, well, legendary.
CONNECT WITH PAUL HARRINGTON pharrington@student.framingham.edu
5. *Cheesy chip topper
6. Separate from a chain
7. Small cells
8. *Sauce in a boat
9 “Too Much” co-creator Dunham
10. Exploit
11. *Clever and indirect
12. Glide on snow
13. Hoped-for proposal response
21. Reply from a lazy father
22. Spiritual glows
25. Release from samsara, in Buddhism
27. Stink
28. “___, meeny, miny, moe”
31. “A Song of Ice and Fire,” for one
34. “Too bad”
36. Credit check requester
37. Crow calls
38. ASICS rival
39. **Trick candle’s specialty
40. Layers
43. **Talking like a frog prince
44. **“Care to try some?”
47. Ego who left “Saturday Night Live” in 2025
49. **Perturbs
50. Location of a historic “Thrilla”
51. Involve
53. “Me too”
57. Muscat’s location
59. “Preach!”
60. Great Basin native
61. Central: Prefix
62. Green veggie that Gen Zers spread on toast
Ronnie Chiu-Lin / THE GATEPOST
The Architecture of Loss
Spread by Photos & Design Editor Alexis Schlesinger
Truman Shulga Morskaya as “The Boy” during a tech week rehearsal on Nov. 11. Alexis Schlesinger / The Gatepost
[Left] Geneva Carter and Amy Bickford as “Jay” and “Greg” during a tech week rehearsal on Nov. 11. Adrien Gobin / The Gatepost
[Left] Makayla Sidney and Maddy Verdoia as “Rob” and “Carmie” during a tech week rehearsal on Nov. 11. Adrien Gobin / The Gatepost
[Left] Janice Agyemang and Emma Schor as “Catherine” and “Richard” during a tech week rehearsal on Nov. 11. Alexis Schlesinger / The Gatepost
[Left] Maddy Verdoia and Ark Mitchell as “Carmie” and “Tim” during a tech week rehearsal on Nov. 11. Alexis Schlesinger / The Gatepost
[Left] Maddy Verdoia and Amy Bickford as “Carmie” and “Greg” during a tech week rehearsal on Nov. 11. Alexis Schlesinger / The Gatepost