THE PULSE | SUMMER 2025 ISSUE
SO LONG, FAREWELL: MY FINAL LETTER TO THE PULSE
Dear Pulse Readers,
I have been sitting here thinking about how I could possibly summarize my seven-year journey through journalism, my bumpy high school career, and my indescribable gratitude for The Pulse, Ms. Holmes, and The Harvey School in one letter I am still in complete disbelief that this chapter of my life is coming to a close, and I have so many people to thank and so many memories to reflect on, because my life would be so different if it were not for journalism
Although I wish I did not have to say goodbye to such a crucial stage of my life, as Obi-Wan Kenobi preaches, “I will do what I must.”
My life as a journalist began when 11-year-old Benji took his first steps into Mr Pappas’s room on the second floor of Somers Middle School for an after-school club called The Tusker Tribune. Before I ever obsessed over movies (as I often do today), I was on a nonstop streak of strictly writing vague, incredibly biased basketball articles from sixth grade until the middle of ninth grade, and while I cringe every time I read them, I know that I would not be where I am today without them I will always be so grateful to Mr. Dean Pappas for introducing me to the world of journalism and allowing me to discover how much I truly loved expressing myself through a weekly newspaper.
Yet, as I transitioned to high school, I went through some emotionally difficult experiences, one being on a basketball team, which soured my love for basketball, and consequently, my love of discussing basketball in journalism Thus, I found a new escape to bring more joy back into my life through movies, and before I knew it, I was writing 1000-word movie reviews on hit films like “Spider-Man: No Way Home” and “The Batman” for my high school newspaper While my journalistic skills and passion continued to grow, ninth grade still put me in a spot that I needed to get out of as soon as possible
The summer after my freshman year, while I was enjoying my last summer as a camper at Brant Lake Camp, I was introduced to The Harvey School With a new, revived passion for journalism through movie reviews, I knew right when I received that acceptance letter that the school newspaper would be seeing me
By Benji Cutler
And, of course, since I am writing this letter, that was absolutely the case I joined The Pulse in the winter term of 10th grade and returned for the entirety of my senior year as a writer and lead editor alongside my co-lead editor, classmate, and close friend, Logan Kreisberg, whom I cannot thank enough for his hard work and companionship But the most important part of this year for my journalism journey has been how my parents, Ms. Holmes, and I pushed myself to grow into a more versatile writer
Instead of sticking to strictly basketball or strictly movies, I branched out to writing about a wide variety of different topics, including a presidential election recap, a reflection on the benefits of sleepaway camp, Harvey theatre production reviews, and even a breakdown (and shameless plug) of the dessert behemoth that is Crumbl But, of course, I still had plenty to say about movies and television, so I am truly so lucky that Ms Holmes allowed me to write about my passions and encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone, because I can say with complete confidence that both have grown my love for journalism exponentially.
During my junior year, thanks to Mr. Nate Alexander and the brand-new Media Arts program, I continued to expand my journalistic experiences through Broadcast Journalism Throughout the fall and spring terms, I filmed and edited Harvey events such as Homecoming and the Poetry Contest as well as my own unique videos, including a 27-minute interview compilation called “Getting to Know the Harvey Teachers ” The skills I gained from Broadcast Journalism culminated when Mr. Alexander asked me to work with him to record and edit a video of Holocaust survivor Hannah Holsten’s visit to Harvey, which was shown to the entire school, and made me fully recognize how important this type of work can be
I truly believe that it was this class that made me realize that journalism was my passion Through in-person interviews, livestreaming events, and figuring out how to capture a moment at the perfect angle on camera, broadcast journalism taught me that journalism is so much more than what lies in a newspaper, and it is truly all about connecting with my community I cannot thank Mr Nate Alexander enough for allowing me to discover this passion for myself, teaching me the therapeutic exercise that is editing videos on Adobe Premiere Pro, and pushing me to try new things and practice so many new types of journalism.
Needless to say, I am so lucky to have been given so many incredible opportunities from so many incredible people, but I truly dedicate this letter to Ms Holmes I would not be where I am today without Ms. Holmes and her support, guidance, and motivation
But most of all, I want to thank her for how she has inspired me to become a better version of myself, someone who always sees the bright side of things and truly makes the most out of any situation without taking anything for granted I know I still have so much more to learn in life, but I will eternally appreciate Ms Holmes for helping me to not only grow as a journalist, but also helping me to become more optimistic and open-minded
For young students who have ever considered exploring journalism, and even if you haven’t, I truly want you to know that these experiences not only allowed me to spread awareness throughout my community about events, people, and topics that were important to me, but they also helped me realize how journalism is such a wonderful way to express yourself, discuss what you are passionate about, and learn who you truly are and who you want to be.
Now, here we are, in the present day, when I am about to graduate from The Harvey School and continue my journalism career as an English: Language, Media, and Communication major at the University of Rochester I cannot wait to see where my future takes me as I hold journalism and everything that it has taught me so close to my heart Yet, looking back on everything I have been through, I can proudly and confidently say the experiences, people, lessons, and selfdiscovery as a journalist that have brought me to this point will remain some of the happiest and most rewarding parts of my life
All the best,
Benji Cutler
The Pulse Co-Lead Editor
A 6th Grade Benji Cutler beginning his journey in journalism, writing an article for The Tusker Tribune in the Mt. Kisco Starbucks
Photo taken by David Cutler
THE PULSE | SUMMER 2025 ISSUE
MY JOURNALISM JOURNEY
By Brandon Levine
Dear Harvey Community,
Looking back at my time in high school, one of the biggest changes I’ve seen in myself is the way I view writing When I was a freshman and even a sophomore, writing just felt like something I had to do It was all about getting the assignment done as fast as possible so I could move on with my day. I didn’t care much about what I was writing or how I was writing it; I was just trying to hit the word count and hand it in I never really thought about writing as a way to express myself or connect with things I actually cared about
But everything started to shift in junior year when I had Ms. Holmes as my English teacher. She introduced me to the idea that writing could be more than just schoolwork She encouraged me to explore my own voice and told me that I could use writing as a way to share my thoughts, especially about something I’ve always been passionate about: sports At first, I wasn’t sure how that would work. I had never really thought of combining school writing with my love for sports. But once I gave it a try, I realized how powerful it could be
I started writing articles about sports moments, teams, and players that meant something to me, especially my favorite team, the Oklahoma City Thunder Whether it was a big win, a heartbreaking loss, or a story that needed to be told, I found that I had a lot to say. I had the opportunity to meet and interview the head of broadcasting and journalism with the OKC Thunder Writing about sports didn’t feel like homework anymore It felt fun, exciting, and meaningful I could finally write in my own style, with my own perspective, and people actually cared about what I had to say. That felt amazing.
At the end of junior year, I took on the role of sports editor, and that experience completely changed the way I see myself as a writer Being the sports editor for The Pulse gave me the chance to go deeper, not just into sports, but into who I am and what matters to me. I learned how to take an idea and turn it into a story. I learned how to connect with my audience. I even learned how to help others shape their stories, too, which made me feel more confident and capable as a leader
Throughout senior year, serving as sports editor has been one of the best parts of my time at school It gave me a reason to look forward to writing and a space to be creative and honest. I’ve explored topics I never would’ve touched before. I’ve found ways to tie sports into life lessons, teamwork, leadership, and emotion I’ve written pieces that I’m truly proud of, and I’ve discovered that writing is something I actually enjoy, not just something I have to do.
More than anything, this experience helped me find my voice. It showed me that I have something to say, and that my words matter. That’s something I’ll carry with me long after high school I’m incredibly thankful for the opportunity to be sports editor, for Ms Holmes pushing me to take writing seriously, and for everyone who supported my work along the way.
With all my accomplishments coming from using my voice and building connections, I will be taking my next steps at Syracuse University.
Sincerely,
Brandon Levine
The Pulse Sports Editor
Photo of Brandon and his parents at the JMA Wireless Dome on the Syracuse Campus
HARVEY NEWS
THE PULSE | SUMMER 2025 ISSUE
MANY HATS, ONE HEART: THANK YOU, MS. HARRIS
By Logan Kreisberg
As this school year comes to a close, we say goodbye to a truly remarkable member of our Harvey community: Ms. Susan Harris After 17 years of extraordinary service in a variety of roles, Ms Harris is embarking on a well-earned retirement
Ms Harris first came to Harvey in 2008 as the school librarian while completing her graduate studies in education and school media Over the years, she stepped into multiple positions–as educational technology director, English teacher, and most notably as 9th and 10th Grade Dean Ms Harris shared with The Pulse that her path was “an evolution ” When different needs arose, she stepped in to meet them–“which is kind of the Harvey way.”
Ms Harris has shaped the academic and personal journeys of countless students, guiding them before they even stepped foot onto campus. Due to her involvement in admissions, Ms. Harris has developed what she describes as “a unique perspective,” having come to know many students from the moment their applications were submitted Once they arrive at Harvey, she builds on that foundation, taking time to better understand each student. With intention and care, Ms Harris has worked to ensure every student was both challenged and supported, laying the groundwork for their success
Recognizing the often difficult transition into high school, Ms. Harris consistently taught a section of 9th grade English that is designed to help students transition into the rigors of high school, ensuring they had the tools and confidence needed for success
For many, she remained a steady guide through sophomore year, working closely with students and families to help each young person “find what their path is at Harvey.” Her leadership has always been rooted in a deep empathy and thoughtful engagement, coupled with a sincere belief in each student’s potential
Still, Ms. Harris has been a meaningful part of every student’s full journey, shaping their overall Harvey experience in ways both big and small Senior Martina Nicora reflects on her relationship with Ms Harris as an advisor, sharing, “She has shown up for me every time I’ve needed her, and has always told me the hard truth–-even if it’s not what I want to hear at the moment, but what I need to hear. I genuinely wouldn’t be the person I am today without her ”
It’s fitting, then, that the tradition Ms. Harris says she’ll miss the most is Commencement–a moment that honors not just academic achievement, but the growth she’s helped nurture These endof-year celebrations, she believes, “bring the lives of a high school student together and launch them into the next phase.”
As she transitions into retirement, Ms. Harris looks forward to channeling her energy into causes close to her heart through community service and volunteering She remarks, “The main thing that I want to do is use my energy and skills to do things that I feel are personally important for me, for my community, and for my world ”
Though she will be deeply missed, we are thrilled to see Ms. Harris begin this exciting next chapter. We also warmly welcome Ms. Nicole Tantillo, who will step into the role of 9th and 10th Grade Dean Head of Upper School Mr Phil Lazzaro states, “Ms Tantillo brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to fostering growth and well-being”–values that align beautifully with the foundation Ms Harris has built
Please join us at The Pulse in thanking Ms. Susan Harris for the mark she has made on the Harvey community. She will be sincerely missed!
Ms Harris introducing herself at FirstYear Fest 2024. Photo taken by the Harvey Yearbook staff
HARVEY NEWS
THE PULSE | SUMMER 2025 ISSUE
NEW HORIZONS FOR HARVEY BOYS RUGBY
By Connor Harrington
The 2025 Harvey boys rugby season has come to a close. Through injuries, lack of experience, and a young team, the team has struggled for two years While the season didn’t turn out the way the team (myself included) may have wanted, new horizons are ahead.
Starting the year, the boys found themselves in a similar situation as last year: new, inexperienced players and a lack of upperclassmen. From gaining a sense of camaraderie to starting from the bare basics of rugby, the team had a lot to learn and a lot of room for development throughout the season
From the first game against Dwight, it was apparent that there was some talent on the team, though Fighting back for the whole game against a more experienced group was challenging, but they showed heart Newcomers like juniors Ryan Geagan and Titus Welsh showed they could be assets to the team with some more experience.
From the first match, the team knew what aspects of their game needed to be improved. The following games showed a lot of progression over the course of the season, most notably their second game against New Rochelle, which came right down to the wire, where Harvey, unfortunately, lost 15-14.
One might take this season and be disappointed, but there is a brighter side The Harvey boys rugby team has gained some much-needed experience playing full rugby matches.
Even the players who joined the team last year had little actual game experience, having played only three games all season As with any high-contact sports, this experience is necessary to succeed, and the boys faced two teams that had a greater level of expertise. Yet in both rematch games against New Rochelle and Dwight, the Harvey boys showed their skill, and their play level had increased significantly, making both games competitive matches
The Harvey boys certainly grew as a team and improved. They showed brotherhood with each other and supported each other on the field and connected off the field It was a difficult season for them, but they showed they have talent in the younger classes and leadership in the older classes. The season was disappointing, but not once did the boys doubt themselves They believed they could play with more experienced teams, and while the outcome wasn’t in their favor, they showed that they will continue to put in the effort it takes for them to succeed.
With two seniors leaving this year (Will Herman and I) who have played significant roles in the forwards scrums and back line, the team should not be discouraged Rising juniors Armando Flores and Grahm Bryant have proven to be valuable forwards to the team.
Armando Flores is nearly impossible for one person to bring to the ground, and most of his success has come from running right through the opposition. Grahm Bryant has been extremely successful in lineouts, winning nearly every offensive lineout He has even forced drops and won quite a few defensive line-outs over the course of the season.
As for the back’s rising juniors, Ben Lawrence-Comerford and Rayce Volpi showed little fear on the field Playing fly-half, Ben has done an excellent job at guiding the back line and setting up plays. He is shifty on offense and fearless on defense. The same could be said for Rayce Volpi, who has improved exponentially since last season While not shifty like Ben, Rayce has shown tremendous growth in his rucks, tackles, and movement of the ball down the back line.
This season has passed, and while there have been setbacks, there are positives that cannot be ignored. The underclassmen are growing, and their veteran rising seniors can lead them The newcomers have improved and have proven to be great assets The sun may have set on this season, but the horizon is just ahead; they just need to keep pushing.
The 2025 Boys Rugby Team Photo taken by Gabe Palacio.
HARVEY NEWS
THE PULSE | SUMMER 2025 ISSUE
A GIRLS RUGBY SEASON OF GROWTH AND GRIT
Coached by English teacher Madelon Visintainer and substitute teacher Shannon Horan, the girls rugby team had a rewarding season for The Harvey School Last year, the Harvey Athletic News reported that “the Cavaliers played 14 matches, won nine, tied one, and lost only four.” This year, they have stood out as one of Harvey’s most successful sports teams, with seven wins and only four losses
The Harvey team is part of the Metropolitan High School Girls Rugby League, which follows a fast-paced version of the game with seven players per team and two seven-minute halves on a full-sized field Scoring includes assigning five points for a try and two points for a conversion kick.
In girls 7s rugby, each team has seven players who take on both offensive and defensive roles in a fast, continuous game on a full-sized field. The positions are typically divided into forwards and backs, with three forwards and four backs.
The two props are strong players who start the scrum, help win the ball during physical contests, and do a lot of tackling and short runs. The hooker, positioned between the props, tries to ‘hook’ the ball back during the scrum and supports both attack and defense with mobility and skill
By Daniela Rynott
The scrum-half, Sophia Collum, retrieves the ball from scrums or after tackles and quickly passes it to spark offensive plays, requiring speed and quick thinking The flyhalf, Lily Acrish, acts as the team’s main strategist, deciding when to pass, kick, or run to move the ball forward.
The center, Casey Kelly, combines strength and speed to break through defenses and stop opposing attacks. Finally, the wing, Maeve Lazzaro, is the fastest player, positioned near the sideline to finish scoring plays by outrunning defenders Because of the open nature of 7s rugby, all players need to be agile, well-conditioned, and capable of performing a variety of tasks throughout the game.
The team’s four captains are senior Lily, as well as juniors Maeve, Casey, and Sophia Captain Lily shouts out Mirosa Gregori, Summer Brewster, and Summer Jarbath who won the Sportsmanship Award as new players who have shined with their hard work and dedication to the game
Maeve reflects on her journey with rugby, being the daughter of Mr. Lazzaro, the boys rugby coach. She says, “I definitely grew up surrounded by the sport We would watch the Rugby World Cup when it was played and the Six Nations together However, I had never played it until I came to Harvey. My dad always helps me with rugby, and I really am grateful for that. He works out with me, and whenever I want to pass with someone, he’s always willing to be that person He has taught me a lot about my position as winger ”
In addition to Mr. Lazzaro, other Harvey administrators are involved in the rugby team, such as the Dean of 9th and 10th Grade, Ms Harris, who started Harvey’s girls rugby team in 2014
This was not the first time she had founded a rugby team; she helped start the girls team at Williams College during her university years. She coached it until 2019, but she still helps out at practices sometimes and can often be seen watching games
Then, Ms. Horan came to Harvey and began coaching with Ms Visintainer The Premier Rugby 7s website highlights Ms Horan, stating, “Shannon Horan began her rugby journey nearly 10 years ago, co-founding the Women’s Rugby Club at Manhattanville College. She currently plays for the Village Lions in New York City In 2019, she joined the White Plains Rugby Club, becoming captain in 2020 and later a player-coach As head coach of Trumbull High School since February 2022, she led her team to a Division II State Championship. Ms. Horan also joined the New York Ironworkers’ game day operations in 2022 and worked with Premier Rugby Sevens in 2023, focusing on operations and customer service ”
This year, the girls team joined the boys squad on a trip to Texas, where they had outdoor practices, games, and junior Tessa Walsh notes that they also had fun thrifting and getting ice cream. Among other activities, the team participated in volunteer work, as community service is a value important to all of the coaches
For the future, the Harvey rugby team is always open to building their team, accepting incoming ninth graders and anyone interested in trying a new sport
CONT. ON PAGE 11
The 2025 Harvey Girls Rugby Team
Photo taken by Gabe Palacio
THE PULSE | SUMMER 2025 ISSUE
HARVEY SENIOR JACK AMANN COMMITS TO SUNY NEW PALTZ BASEBALL
By Liam Tarpey
The Harvey School is sending another incredible athlete to the next level Senior Jack Amann has officially committed to play baseball at SUNY New Paltz, where he’ll pitch for the Hawks at the Division III level
Jack's baseball career began early He told The Pulse that he started playing when he was 2 or 3 years old, around the same time that he met his first real best friend, who was playing on the same team as him. Jack stated, “We started playing more and more together every year. I loved the connection that we made, and that’s kind of how it all started ”
Over time, Jack’s love for the game continued to grow. Along with many others, his dream had always been to play professional baseball, but he took things one step at a time Jack explained to The Pulse, “When I first got to high school, my goal was just making the freshman team and then working my way up to JV, then Varsity. College wasn’t really the thought in my mind until around last year ”
However, Jack didn’t start out on the mound. He told The Pulse that he was originally a catcher and bounced around a few different positions due to his strong arm With a laugh, Jack said, “I couldn’t hit, so I was told to become a pitcher As soon as I started, I loved it and couldn’t stop
Now, as a pitcher, Jack has a wide variety of pitches, including a four-seam fastball, sinker, slider, splitter, and changeup His fastball tops out between 86-88mph, with his off-speed pitches sitting in the mid-70s.
Now, as a pitcher, Jack has a wide variety of pitches, including a fourseam fastball, sinker, slider, splitter, and changeup His fastball tops out between 86-88mph, with his offspeed pitches sitting in the mid-70s.
When asked about what the recruiting process was like for him, Jack told The Pulse, “It was smooth thanks to the help of my coaches along the way.” He also stated that the most challenging part of recruitment was maintaining relationships with various coaches over an extended period of time.
Jack received interest from several schools aside from New Paltz, including Rhode Island and the University of Massachusetts (UMass) Boston. He ultimately chose New Paltz because it felt like the best environment for him Jack told The Pulse, “I wanted a program that was more player-driven New Paltz just seemed like the right fit ”
Looking ahead, Jack has clear goals for his college career. He explained to The Pulse, “My goal is to be the first guy out of the bullpen I probably won’t be a starter my freshman year, but that’s what I’m working toward.” Jack’s also aiming to increase his pitching velocity to 94 mph.
Jack's advice to younger players who want to play college baseball is simple: Start early Jack told The Pulse, “The most important thing is to start putting in the work as early as possible. I didn’t really get focused until around two years ago If I started earlier with videos and hit the weights harder, it could’ve been a big game changer But honestly, I’m just blessed to be where I am today.”
Jack also made it clear that he wants to help others with their baseball journeys He told The Pulse, “If anyone needs help with the recruiting process and learning how to email coaches and keep relationships with them, let me know. It can be challenging.”
SUNY New Paltz is gaining a talented player and student. The Pulse wishes Jack the best as he takes on this next chapter!
Photo of Jack Amann on the mound
Taken by Koby Crowder
SPORTS NEWS
THE PULSE | SUMMER 2025 ISSUE
SHEDEUR SANDERS'S WILD NFL DRAFT RIDE: SLIDE, PRANK, AND A CHIP ON HIS SHOULDER
By Rohan Singh
Shedeur Sanders suited up in his new Cleveland Browns uniform. Photo courtesy of @jerseyxswapnfl on Instagram
Shedeur Sanders, the son of NFL legend Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders, was expected to be a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft Instead of hearing his name early in the draft, he slipped all the way down to the fifth round and was pranked along the way. Now, with the Cleveland Browns, Shedeur Sanders is determined to prove everyone wrong.
Sanders was listed at a 96% chance of going at pick No 21 according to ESPN Scouts were enamored by his arm strength, accuracy, and leadership at Colorado, where he amassed more than 3,200 yards and 27 touchdowns last season. However, for all the hype, teams passed on him, and passed on him, and passed on him So, what went wrong?
NFL insiders have reported that teams were questioning the decision to forego the NFL Combine and the East-West Shrine Game. It was also reported that various coaches had some concerns about Sanders's attitude
One anonymous assistant coach told The NFL Athletic Department that Sanders hangs onto the ball too long, takes unnecessary sacks, and walks around like he has already arrived. Right or wrong, the damage was done Sanders was finally selected at No 144, by the Browns
As if the wait wasn't hard enough, Sanders fell victim to a horrible draftday prank. As reported by ESPN's Adam Schefter, the son of Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich used his father's iPad to anonymously call Sanders, pretending to be the New Orleans Saints General Manager Mickey Loomis. He told him he was getting picked. The call was even caught on video. The NFL was not happy with this draft-day stunt. In a statement from the league, the Falcons received a $250,000 fine, and Ulbrich received a $100,000 fine for not safeguarding confidential information "This was a severe violation of player privacy," the NFL said Jeff Ulbrich later apologized to Sanders and said the prank "should've never happened."
Now, in Cleveland, Sanders enters a competitive quarterback room According to CBS Sports, the Browns already had Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett, and they also drafted Dillon Gabriel earlier in the third round. That’s three QBs fighting for one starting job. But fans still have high hopes.
According to the New York Post, Sanders’s Browns jersey quickly became one of the bestselling rookie jerseys, even outselling some high-end firstround picks.
There’s already drama, though Sanders wanted to wear his signature No. 2 jersey, but wide receiver DeAndre Carter took it. So, for now, Sanders will wear No. 12, a decision that caused a stir on social media. Instead of letting it hurt, Sanders is using the draft as motivation.
According to reports, NFL legend Tom Brady texted him after the draft and told him to “use this as fuel.” As reported by ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith, “This young man has the tools. If he locks in and stays humble, the league better watch out ” Two greats are reaching out to Sanders and showing him support
Sanders himself hasn’t said much about the prank or the draft, but in an Instagram story, he posted a photo of himself in Browns gear with the caption “Time to work.”
What's next for Sanders is whether he starts this season or has to wait his turn. One thing’s for sure: Shedeur Sanders is coming, and the NFL had better be ready.
REPORTS
THE PULSE | SUMMER 2025 ISSUE
THE PEOPLE’S POPE
By Daniela Rynott
At 3:56 a.m. EST, Vatican News posted on social media platform X, “Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta ” The Pope, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was a groundbreaking man, from being the first Latin American Pope to advocating for disenfranchised minorities
Working up until the day of his death, the Pope met with the Vice President of the United States, JD Vance. On Easter Sunday, he also appeared in his wheelchair to bless a multitude of citizens and foreigners alike
NBC News Today reports that he died of Bronchitis spanning a life of nearly nine decades at Casa Santa Marta in Vatican City They say that some of his final words were uttered to his nurse, “Thank you for bringing me back to the Square,” referring to his ride in the popemobile around St Peter’s Square as he blessed citizens.
Known as a people’s pope, Francis created waves in the Catholic Church due to his progressive beliefs For example, in 2013, when asked about his opinion regarding gay marriage and rights, he spoke, “Who am I to judge?” Such liberal-leaning thought was thought of as uncommon within the typically conservative religious community.
Other advancements Pope Frances championed included the promotion of women to high-ranking positions within the Vatican, something never done before. For example, “In February, Francis made the highest-ranking appointment of his papacy from his hospital bed, naming Sister Raffaella Petrini to a role akin to the governor of Vatican City ” He also promoted women to positions such as co-undersecretary of the Synod of Bishops and deputy head of the Holy See’s press office
Jorge Bergoglio was born Dec. 17, 1936 in Buenos Aires, Argentina to two Italian immigrants Growing up, he was always known as a religious boy with a responsible nature due to his position as the eldest of five children
In an article about his life, The New York Times states that after 13 years of study, “Father Bergoglio became the head of the Jesuits, an order of priests, in Argentina ” However, after a controversy where “critics accused him of having an autocratic management style… Church authorities sent him into de facto exile in Frankfurt, Germany, and then to Córdoba, Argentina ” Unexpectedly, Bergoglio was chosen as Bishop by the Buenos Aires diocese, and then cardinal, bringing him out of exile
After the many controversies regarding sexual abuse within the Catholic Church, Pope Benedict XVI resigned, opening a place for Bergoglio USA Today delves into Francis’s choice of name, “When Jorge Bergoglio ascended to the papacy, he chose to become Pope Francis in honor of St Francis of Assisi, a 13th-century friar who rejected his family's wealth and went to live, minister and work among the poor ”
He took office on March 13, 2013, and he began his position by focusing on issues such as climate change and income inequality. Later on during his position, he dealt with more issues, such as allowing priests to bless same-sex marriage.
In addition, Francis was the first Pope to defrock a cardinal, Theodore E. McCarrick, for being found guilty of sexually abusing minors, as The New York Times reports About half of the Catholic population felt that he made the changes Pope Benedict XVI couldn’t, but others believe he did not go far enough in dealing with this issue.
Although a large community of liberalleaning Catholics claims that Francis created a more welcoming environment for the Church, The New York Times reports that, “this same transformative vision…ultimately fueled the rise of an energized conservative Catholic resistance ”
The conclave for the selection of the new pope is set to be held on May 7, 2025, and 135 cardinals are expected to be in attendance. Within the community of 1.4 billion Catholics, all are wondering about the next papal selection Many wonder if the clergy will lead back toward conservatism or another liberal-leaning figure.
If the papacy shifts to a more conservative approach, The New York Times believes that they may shift their attention to “ending abortion” as their “dominant priority.”
Although Pope Francis led a controversial life in his split of support between conservatives and liberals, he was extremely admired by both groups. His body now lies in the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, Italy
A tireless advocate for the poor and the planet, Pope Francis spent his life challenging the Church and the world to do better Photo courtesy of the Catholic News Agency.
THE PULSE | SUMMER 2025 ISSUE
POPE LEO: A LEGEND IN THE MAKING
By Jack Amann
Two days after Pope Francis’s death, all the appointed cardinals came together and elected a new pope After only one day, they elected Robert Francis Prevost, who took the name of Leo when he became the pope
Pope Leo was born Sept 15, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois. Vatican News states, “He spent his childhood and adolescence with his family, studied at the Minor Seminary of Augustinian Fathers.” After his youth, he went to study at Villanova University, where he finished with a degree in mathematics and philosophy.
After graduating from Villanova, he decided to go back to Chicago, where he was ordained into the priesthood, and then he moved to Peru as a part of a service opportunity From there, he learned Spanish By joining the church in Peru, he became involved with improving the conditions of the homeless throughout Peru
In 2015, he was appointed bishop by Pope Francis, and he served until 2023, when he went back to Chicago for a year due to some health issues. According to CNN, who interviewed his friends and his brothers, “He's not a showboat kind of person. He is a calm person who is not a careerist, is not just seeking a promotion –– but someone who’s there to serve.”
Vice President JD Vance went to the Vatican for a meeting with Pope Leo, congratulating him on being the first American Pope. In addition to political figures, Pope Leo has also met with other religious leaders, such as the Head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, to discuss the war against Russia The meeting went well, according to Vatican News, as the meeting was “an authentic, just, a very possible lasting peace ”
During his inaugural Mass, Pope Leo said, “It is never a question of capturing others by force, by religious propaganda, or by means of power but through love.”
THE PULSE STAFF
Lead
Benji
Sports
Arav Shah
Rohan Singh
Liam Tarpey
Faculty Advisor
Virginia Holmes
Special Thanks: Chris Del Campo
Newly appointed Pope Leo XIV waving to the people on his way out of a morning service in Vatican City. Photo courtesy of Fox News.
THE PULSE | SUMMER 2025 ISSUE
THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION’S THREAT TO FREEZE FUNDS AT TOP UNIVERSITIES
By Logan Kreisberg
Since beginning his second presidency on Jan 20, 2025, President Donald Trump has made it a top priority to threaten federal funding for universities based on how their administrations manage pro-Palestine protests and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives Of the eight Ivy League schools, only two have not yet faced such threats
The first institution to come under President Trump’s scrutiny was Columbia University. In March, the Trump administration announced it would reduce the New York City school’s budget by $400 million due to the university’s inability to suppress incidents of antisemitism on campus
Later, Columbia agreed to a list of demands from the Trump administration to prevent defunding. According to CNN, some of these stipulations included for the university to “enforce its disciplinary policies, implement rules for protests, ban masks, announce a plan to hold student groups accountable, empower its law enforcement, and review its Middle East studies programs and its admissions.
Subsequently, the university’s board of trustees sent out an open letter to Columbia’s academic community, which provided updates for the policy changes the school would make. Since then, Columbia has implemented these changes
Harvard University has also come under scrutiny by the Trump administration On April 11, the U S The Department of Education notified Harvard of a funding freeze, threatening to withhold $2 3 billion unless the university agreed to a set of demands Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security canceled two grants equating to more than $2.7 million and warned the university that they risked losing the ability to enroll international students for the upcoming academic year.
Despite these pressures, Harvard is pushing back. In a letter to students and faculty, Harvard president Alan Garber wrote, “No government, regardless of which party is in power should dictate what private universities can teach, whom they can hire, and which areas of study and inquiry they can pursue.”
Shortly after, the university filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, arguing that the funding freezes are unlawful. While approximately 60 universities have come under federal review, Harvard is the first to take legal action directly challenging the administration
Though the loss of federal funding could affect research efforts, Harvard–widely regarded as the wealthiest university in the world–has the financial resources to sustain itself and mount a legal battle that could stretch across the remainder of the administration’s term
As the lawsuit unfolds, the Trump administration continues to impose sanctions on Harvard, such as denying the university’s tax-exempt status and their eligibility for new research grants. Still, the Harvard community has been in support of the fight
CBS Boston reported that “dozens of Harvard University professors are pledging to take a temporary pay cut,” and close to 100 faculty members have agreed to a 10% salary reduction. These reallocated funds will equate to close to $2 million
In an emailed statement, Harvard Kennedy School professor Dani Rodrik ‘79 wrote, “If we as a faculty are asking the University administration to resist the Trump administration’s attacks on academic freedom, we should also be willing to share in the financial sacrifice that will be necessary ”
Other significant universities that are facing scrutiny by the Trump administration are Cornell and Big Ten member Northwestern, which will lose $1 billion and $790 million, respectively But with Harvard’s recent decision to fight back, it is plausible they will follow in their footsteps
With academic freedom and billions in funding at stake, Harvard’s actions may set a precedent for how far the federal government can influence universities and how institutions choose to respond
Demonstrators rallying on Cambridge Common to protest federal government interference at Harvard University Taken by Nicholas Pfosi (Reuters)
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THE PULSE | SUMMER 2025 ISSUE
DRESSING FOR THE NEXT CHAPTER
By Ted Clement
Oscar Wilde once said, “A well-tied tie is the first serious step in life ” How you dress can have a dramatic effect on both how people view you and how you view yourself. Every young man can relate to the feeling of putting on a suit and getting that confident, powerful, bold feeling As a senior, I am acutely aware of the need to “mature” my wardrobe As we young men move into a phase of our lives defined by internships, interviews, and college, we must dress accordingly. Here are five stores I recommend to any young man who wants to start dressing nicer, in a way that earns respect in this next chapter of our life
The Pulse’s top recommendation is J. Crew. J. Crew is a very accessible but legit brand. J. Crew’s website boasts “We make modern classics with character We believe in true timelessness, the integrity of well-made clothes, and since our inception, great quality at a great price.” Timelessness is important in a wardrobe. People our age need stylish essentials that can last them for a while I purchased some J Crew shorts, Oxford shirts, and a polo, and I am very satisfied The clothes aren’t cheap, but they won’t break the bank to buy J. Crew.
The second recommendation is Brooks Brothers. If one wants to double down on a classic, preppy look, then Brooks is the place. Brooks is a quintessential American brand Founded in 1818, it has dressed 39 U S presidents Brooks has amazing quality across the board, but the company’s brighter, summer pieces are its trademarks. Brooks is much more of a “luxury” brand, and our readers should be aware of a higher cost for its products That being said, Brooks’s goods are well worth the money and will last a long time. Furthermore, Brooks is a respected brand in the professional world and helps establish you as a serious candidate for internships and jobs
The final recommendation is Carhartt. This brand is very different from the past two recommendations Focusing on more of a “blue collar” consumer, Carhartt offers a more rugged look If someone has a manual job, Carhartt is an amazing bet, as its clothes will hold up very well under distress. I own two of Carhartt’s jackets, and they are made well Furthermore, I get the most compliments from strangers when I wear my duck jacket Every wardrobe needs variety, and a mix of Carhartt and some “preppier” brands provides much depth to a mature wardrobe
Dressing well is essential for the next stage of our lives. Older generations won’t take you seriously if you only wear jerseys and sweatpants. Young men would be smart to look over the websites of the brands listed here and purchase some new clothes
HARVEY GIRLS RUGBY
CONT. FROM PAGE 5
Emily Martin, a Harvey senior, talks about her experience joining the team this year, stating, “This is my first time playing rugby My main sport is softball, but, unfortunately, there weren't enough girls to play this year. Even though I was upset about not being able to play my sport, my perspective quickly changed after being able to play my first game All the girls are so nice, and I was able to get along with everyone My favorite part about rugby and this season was probably tackling and getting to know everyone on the team. It was a really good end to my high school years, and rugby is something I will most likely continue in the future ”
Emily is a perfect example of how trying a new sport can change students’ lives in the best ways. The girls rugby team welcomes any and all new players who are interested No experience is needed to try the sport, and many of the girls start in the same boat of uncertainty.
As the season comes to an end, the girls will have a team dinner with catering from Chipotle, in which they will celebrate a year marked with growth, grit, and many victories. From first-time players to seasoned leaders, the Harvey girls rugby team has proven that passion and teamwork can pave the way to success With strong mentorship, dedicated athletes, and an open invitation to all who are curious, the future of girls rugby at Harvey looks bright and the Cavaliers are just getting started!
A look into the premium collection of clothes in Brooks Brothers. Photo courtesy of Yahoo Finance.
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THE PULSE | SUMMER 2025 ISSUE
THE ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME DOES NOT ROCK
By Connor Harrington
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is a museum capturing the history of music and inducting only the highest achievers in music to its hall of fame – yet, it certainly does not rock.
Established April 20, 1983, by Ahmet Ertegun, a founder and chairperson of Atlantic Records, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame did not have a city to call home until 1986 when Cleveland was ultimately chosen From its inception, the Hall of Fame sought to document the history of rock music and the artists, producers, and other notable figures who helped push the genre forward. On its official website, the Hall of Fame states its mission: “The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame celebrates the sound of youth culture and honors the artists whose music connects us all ”
It is important to note that not only are rock musicians and personalities celebrated at the Hall of Fame, but also jazz, blues, soul, hip-hop, and more At the Hall of Fame, rock music is viewed more as a concept rather than a genre. The Rock Hall even said that rock music is “not defined by any one genre” but “a sound that moves youth culture ”
This is an interesting sentiment to redefine “rock music” to better fit the founders's goal, to show how music has pushed youth culture and political movements. In a way, it is compelling to define “rock” as a spirit found in countercultures throughout music history Rock is easy to define as countercultural, and by defining it as a spirit, the museum can celebrate other countercultures outside of rock. I do appreciate this interpretation of “rock,” but this is where my distaste for the music begins, as well
While the Hall of Fame has defined “rock” as more of a spirit than a genre, it contradicts itself and treats rock as narrowly defined at the same time. The Hall has been accused of bias in the past, from the lack of female representation, accusations of favoring white artists, to genre bias. In an article from the rock publication, Ultimate Classic Rock, they state, “The Rock Hall’s voters are frequently accused of being biased in favor of white male artists, with females making up less than 9% of the inducted roster as of 2023 ”
For a Hall of Fame whose mission is to capture music that “moves youth culture,” the Rock Hall has repeatedly slighted genres like punk, metal, and hip-hop, movements that have defined youth culture in different eras. The Rock Hall’s bias has been known and frequently pointed out by musicians who fall into these categories. Iron Maiden’s lead singer Bruce Dickenson has gone as far as to say, “I actually think the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is an utter and complete load of bollocks, to be honest with you ” He also said in a 2018 speaking engagement, “It’s run by a bunch of sanctimonious bloody Americans who wouldn’t know rock ‘n’ roll if it hit them in the face ”
Dickinson’s feelings toward the Rock Hall are difficult to argue against. In terms of inductees, year after year, “the sound of youth culture” is frequently misrepresented For every few artists that do represent “youth culture,” another dozen artists that leave you scratching your head are inducted, as well, often leaving legendary artists like the aforementioned Iron Maiden out of the Hall of Fame, even though they have been eligible since 2005
Not only are influential and eradefining bands and artists often left out, but the people replacing them tend to go against the spirit of “rock and roll ” The disco band The Bee Gees is in the Hall of Fame, but Joy Division isn’t? Disco is inherently a genre that is made to be mass-produced and made for the radio; it’s all things that rock and roll is supposed to stand in opposition to
This year’s nominated class and the inductees were nothing short of disappointing. While groups that absolutely deserve their flowers were inducted (The White Stripes, OutKast, Soundgarden) there were others that were inducted who probably shouldn’t have been, especially considering SaltN-Pepa won the “musical influence award” over a band like Joy Division, which influenced entirely new genres of rock For the most part, it feels the Rock Hall is more concerned with inducting those who are marketable than those who are definitive figures in music history.
CONT. ON PAGE 13
Outside evening view of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland Photo courtesy of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame website
THE PULSE | SUMMER 2025 ISSUE REVIEWS
BEST INDIAN FOOD IN THE NEW YORK CITY
By Arav Shah
What makes Indian food special is the variety and flavors – something that is way different from American cuisine Some of the best Indian restaurants in the area include Tamarind Restaurant, located in New York City, and Savannah Bhavan, with locations all over the world (the closest one is in Stamford, Connecticut). Dhabewala in Stamford also provides bold and classic dishes
Tamarind has some great chicken curry. The chicken curry is nice and flavorful with the perfect spice-to-sweet balance. The chicken is great, as well Also, the naan is flaky, crispy, and soft with the perfect spice from the garlic The ambience is high-end and modern. It is also fancy and upscale. Their Palak Chaat is awesome, too. It's crispy and full of flavor. This dish also has the perfect sweetness-to-spice ratio Palak chaat is made from fried spinach with spicy green chutney and tangy chutney, which creates the aromatic flavors
Saravannaa Bhavan is an elite dosa place. A dosa is an Indian lentil crepe that is flavorful and could have many fillings, such as potato and cheese masala Saravanna bhavan dosas are very crispy, full of flavor, and they have the perfect potato-to-crepe ratio. Their sambar is great, too. It is very flavorful and has a little kick, sort of like the Chick-fil-a sauce
The best dosa to get, in my opinion, is masala with potatoes. This perfect creamy mashed spiced potatoes in a crispy lentil crepe with a side of sambar hits the spot Not only is it tasty, but it also has a sufficient amount of protein and a lot of nutrients, as well, since it's made from lentils. Idlis are great, too. Idlis are paired with sambar, and they are a steamed rice cake with a similar flavor profile to dosa but in rice form It's a very good dish
AREA
Dhabelwla (again, in Stamford) offers some great food, including tandoori chicken, which is spiced chicken grilled on a tandoori oven. They also have naan that is grilled and tastes good The chicken pairs well with chili peppers, but they are really spicy, so you may need to make sure you order a drink That drink should be a mango lassi. Mango lassi is a sweet yogurt drink that is creamy and tastes like a mango dessert drink.
The star of the restaurant is the pani puri, which is fried crisp, circle-shaped shaped filled with spiced water. It has an explosion of flavors. Your taste buds will be guaranteed to be dancing
The dessert to finish it all off is gulab jamun, which are fried balls with sweet syrup; it’s very tasty but also very sweet. It is a good treat to have once in a while
There are many elite foods and cuisines, and Indian food should definitely be placed in your top list, as it has a burst of flavor and variety. So, next time you go to a restaurant, try ordering these items, as they are popular in the United States and in the rest of the world
ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME CONT. FROM PAGE 12
From the perspective of someone who is a “Metalhead,” the Rock Hall’s induction ceremonies feel more selfcongratulatory and over-priced, not to mention the music industry politics that are involved in the spectacle. The museum in itself often prioritizes the mainstream narratives rather than deep, fan-loved musical history Yes, the Rock Hall displays some metal, punk, and hiphop musicians, but they frequently overlook the widely loved musicians who exist just beneath the surface of the mainstream.
For example, a band like the Ramones doesn't truly represent the spirit of punk They have the look, the sound, and the feel of punk, but if you were to ask a punk who they believe encapsulates the punk spirit, they’ll mention bands like Bad Brains, Minor Threat, and so on They are bands that exist below the surface that have had real influence on punk, but they aren’t marketable like the Ramones, who have the punk idea but lack the meaning.
Over time, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has fallen out of relevance, and few artists truly take pride in being inducted into the Rock Hall. Fans hate seeing their favorite musicians being passed over year after year for eye-rolling picks The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is just a way for music executives to give themselves a pat on the back for signing the bands that made them money, while forgetting about the innovators and underground legends. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is a monument to greed
A collection of Indian foods that can be found across the New York City area, Photo courtesy of The Infatuation
THE PULSE | SUMMER 2025 ISSUE REVIEWS
A GUIDE TO A SUMMER IN CAPE COD
By Liam Tarpey
Cape Cod is one of those places that just works. It’s simple and relaxing without being too flashy or over the top. It has great food and beaches with perfect summer towns. If you’re considering taking a trip to the Cape, you should definitely read this before going
Cape Cod is made up of 15 beautiful towns, each with its own unique qualities. The two I recommend most are Chatham and West Dennis. Chatham is a great place to stay if you want a mix of everything on your trip Chatham is a walkable town full of many small shops and restaurants, and it has plenty of beaches, too Chatham Lighthouse Beach is one of the more popular beaches in town. It’s big and clean, and the views are awesome. You can walk along the shore or just hang out in the sun. Just beware of sharks. They are definitely a real thing in Chatham, so it’s a good idea to stay close to shore.
West Dennis is another great place to stay. It’s more low-key than Chatham, but it is still close to a lot of good beaches and restaurants. West Dennis beach is giant, with calm water and lots of space to spread out It’s a great option
Mayflower Beach in Dennis is probably the best beach overall. When the tide goes out, the sandbars stretch way out into the bay and create tide pools It’s perfect for walking, exploring, and just hanging out The water is super calm, and the sunsets are some of the greatest on the Cape
If you’re up for a drive, Coast Guard Beach in Eastham and Race Point Beach in Provincetown are also worth visiting Coast Guard has bigger waves and a more classic beach feel Race Point is more open and natural, and you’ll probably see seals swimming close to shore, which also means there are sharks around, so definitely be careful, especially in Wellfleet and Provincetown.
Cape Cod also has some amazing food, especially if you’re into seafood
One of my personal favorite spots is Baxter’s in Harwich. They have the best clam chowder on the Cape, hands down. It’s creamy, full of flavor, and always hits the spot after a long day at the beach. The place itself is casual and right near the water
Another awesome restaurant is The Beachcomber in Wellfleet It’s right on the beach, has great seafood and a raw bar, and the whole vibe is super laid-back. You can eat outside and watch the waves while you eat a delicious, buttery lobster roll. Just watch out for sharks if you go in the water there.
If you’re in Dennis and in the mood for something other than seafood, you have to check out Joey’s Pizzeria. It’s one of the best pizza spots on the Cape. The slices are huge, and the crust is perfect. It’s a great place to grab a quick bite to eat when you’re tired after a long day at the beach
Cape Cod isn’t about doing a million things in one day. It’s about slowing down and enjoying where you are. You go to the beach, eat great seafood, walk around town, and relax Every town has something a little different, and whether it’s your first time going or 10th, Cape Cod always delivers a fun and enjoyable experience.
Photo of Mayflower Beach during low tide
Photo courtesy of iStock.