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NEW YORK, NOVEMBER 10, 2026
Volume CXIV, ISSUE 11
Receives $3 Million Gift from the Brothers of The Christian Schools MU Honors Walter J. Saukin, Ph.D.
The professor of engineering has been involved with the university community since 1972. He passed away on Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026. CUPPECK PHOTOGRAPHY / COURTESY
Elizabeth Nelson, Ph.D., Awarded Costello Award for Excellence in Teaching Elizabeth Nelson, Ph.D., associate professor of political science at Manhattan University (MU), was named the recipient of the 2026 Costello Award for Excellence in Teaching during the university’s 22nd annual Costello Lecture. The event also featured a presentation by MU history professor, Jennifer Edwards, Ph.D., on the use of classroom simulations to help students better understand history. The Costello Award recognizes excellence in teaching and honors the
legacy of Brother Casimir Gabriel Costello, who emphasized the importance of a liberal arts education and its role in developing students beyond their professional careers. Brian Chalk, Ph.D., associate dean of the Kakos School of Arts and Sciences and professor of English, opened the event by discussing Costello’s contributions to the university and his commitment to education. “As dean, he insisted that every student receives a liberal education, whatever their major,” Chalk said. “In his words, the college exists primarily for the cultivation of intellectual virtues, and these can never yield primacy to either functional
IN NEWS:
IN FEATURES:
Isaiah Minaz Staff Writer
Manhattan Caucus: ‘‘...how expensive it is to be poor’’ pg. 4
Faith and Reistance: Martha Hennessey pg. 5
or vocational.” Chalk then announced Nelson as this year’s award recipient, recognizing her academic accomplishments and contributions to teaching. “It is my pleasure to award this year’s Costello Award for excellence in teaching Nelson,” Chalk said. Nelson holds a doctorate in political science from the CUNY Graduate Center and a law degree from Columbia Law School. Her research focuses on international politics and international law, particularly state secession, human rights and international criminal law. Nelson, who is in her __________________________ CONTINUED ON PAGE 3
commitment to support the university. Joshua Reichard “The Brothers of the Asst. Arts & Entertainment Editor / Christian Schools are proud to deepen our Asst. Social Media Editor longstanding partnership with MU through this Manhattan University significant investment in (MU) has recently received its students,” Schaefer a $3 million gift from the said. “For generations, MU Brothers of the Christian has brought the Lasallian Schools with the purpose mission to life by providing of enhancing the student a transformative education, experience on campus one that joins academic and strengthening the excellence with faith, university’s Lasallian service and concern for each Catholic mission. student. We are pleased The university to support the university announced the gift in a press as it creates even more release, stating that the gift opportunities for students to will support and expand learn, grow and lead.” opportunities for students The Quadrangle spoke throughout the school. with Fr. Robert Joerger, “The investment will help the campus ministry coMU expand opportunities director and university that support students inside chaplain. Joerger described and outside the classroom, the gift as an affirmation including programs that of the Brothers’ continued foster academic success, commitment to education, personal growth, belonging, and the mission that the leadership and service,” the university was founded press release stated. upon. The press release, “I think it’s an affirmation however, did not go into that [the Brothers] remain specific details about how committed to their ministry the funds will be allocated. of education,” Joerger said. “Specific allocations will “I think it’s a commitment to be guided by the university’s their charism.” strategic priorities and its Joerger added that he commitment to ensuring anticipates portions of that every student has the the money will be used to resources and experiences support scholarships on needed to thrive,” the press campus, as well as faith release stated. formation opportunities. A statement from “I would imagine that Robert Schaefer, FSC, the significant amounts of this provincial of the Brothers money will be used for of the Christian Schools scholarships, for people who was also included. Schaefer might not otherwise be able emphasized the Brothers’ __________________________ years-long partnership with MU, and their continued CONTINUED ON PAGE 3
IN A&E:
How Creative Outlets Help College Students pg. 8
IN SPORTS: Women’s Basketball Starts Off New Season With a Win
pg. 11
News
NOVEMBER 10, 2026
Volume CXIV, Issue 8 October 20, 2026
The Editorial Board
Barbara Vasquez Editor-in-Chief Maddie Rosado Managing Editor
Maddie Rosado News Editor
Leyla Mercado Features Editor
Zendrah Bonnick Asst. News Editor
Sarah Rolka Asst. Features Editor
Maria Castaño Arts & Entertainment Editor
Zeke Jazwinski Sports Editor
Joshua Reichard Asst. Arts & Entertainment Editor
Emmamuel Sofillas Asst. Sports Editor
Misha Jabal-Abadi Production Editor
Lois Boateng Social Media Editor Leyla Mercado Joshua Reichard Dylan Chon Asst. Social Media Editors Nishat Parvez Faculty Advisor
Jayden Gonzalez Nicky Lombardo Photo & Video Aureliano Morales Web Editor
About The Quadrangle A tradition since 1924, The Quadrangle is a news or ganization run by the students of Manhattan University. We strive to cover news around campus and the greater community, publishing weekly in print and daily online. Our goal is always accuracy, relevancy and professionalism. The opinions expressed in The Quadrangle are those of the individual writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editorial Board, the University or the student body.
Join The Quadrangle The Quadrangle’s staff holds weekly open meetings on Tuesdays at 2 p.m. in Kelly Commons. All are welcome to come and join the club. If interested, please email thequad@manhattan.edu!
Connect with The Quadrangle mcquad.org @mu_quad @mu_quad mcquad
LETTER to the EDITOR
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Dear Quadrangle Staff, This is Mike Fichera, Class of ‘91 and ‘93, former cartoonist for the Quad and recent cover artist for the 100th anniversary issue. I heard about the passing of my beloved professor, Dr. Walter Saukin. In high school my physics teacher directed me to Dr. Saukin’s Summer Engineering Awareness Program to consider engineering as a way to make a career out of my interest in physics. The week I spent at Manhattan College was life-changing. I’ll never forget Dr. Saukin’s lecture, exposing the environmental impacts from the meat industry. After class I thought I would impress him revealing I was a life-long vegetarian. Rather, he taught me a new lesson in humility explaining about pesticide applications to fruits and vegetables! As a Civil Engineering major, I was fortunate to have Dr. Saukin’s three times. Once again, I had a lesson in humility from him, suffering a mild panic attack during one of his Dynamics class tests. I asked to speak to him during the exam; he pulled me out in the hallway, gave me a quick pep-talk, and sent me back to finish. I managed a B+ for the class, despite that one rocky test. His introduction to environmental engineering in my junior year was my first taste of what became my career. I stayed two more years at Manhattan for the masters program in Environmental Engineering, and enjoyed additional conversations with him while I worked in the environmental lab. Inspired after my B+ in Dynamics, I drew a cartoon and wrote a Christmas song for him: “Dr. Saukin’s Coming to Town.” I gave it to him and was pleased that he enjoyed it as a tribute. Over thirty years later, while touring the campus several times with my two daughters (now both Jaspers) I would always see Dr. Saukin mingling with the prospective students and parents, making them feel welcome. During one tour, I encountered Dr. Saukin in Leo. He told me he takes out his worn photocopy of my cartoon and song every Christmas. I mailed him a new digitally remastered version a few years ago. His love for teaching and Manhattan was evident in his loyalty and energy. I pray for his eternal rest with my sincere appreciation for his role in my education and career. Best, Mike
News
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Receives $3 Million Gift from the Brothers of The Christian Schools
__________________________ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
to come to MU,” Joerger said. “I would also imagine that a significant amount of the money will be for faith formation.” Joerger also added that while MU continues to expand and become more diverse, its Lasallian Catholic identity remains a core aspect of its mission. “Fundamentally, [MU] is a Catholic school,” Joerger said. “It’s diverse, and that’s a hallmark of Lasallian ministry, but at the same time, you have to operate out of your own foundation, which is a Catholic religious community of Christian brothers.” The Quadrangle also received a statement from Bridget Chalk, Ph.D., associate provost of MU. Chalk shared that the gift is an opportunity to further incorporate the Lasallian tradition into academic experiences on campus. “The Brothers’ gift is a generous and inspiring
reminder of the mission that knits us together,” Chalk wrote in an email to The Quadrangle. “Particularly in our technology-infused moment, the Lasallian tradition provides us with guiding principles that center attention on human learning, potential, and connection. The gift will allow us to pursue programming that develops these priorities through lectures, new courses, and experiential learning opportunities.” Chalk added that the gift will help advance the university’s mission as a place of higher education, particularly as artificial intelligence continues to shape the college experience. “The gift supports the university’s long-term objectives to highlight the power of education to make the world a better place as a distinctively Lasallian charge,” Chalk wrote. “In the context of AI, refocusing our attention on cultivating interiority,
Photo included in the press release, showing the quad highlighting the core Lasallian principles. MANHATTAN.EDU / COURTESY forming connections with our peers, and serving those in need provides a rejoinder to public skepticism about the value of a college degree.” Chalk concluded by highlighting the Brothers’ longstanding influence on
MU and their continued the Board of Trustees, in our involvement in upholding classrooms, and throughout the university’s Lasallian our organizations maintains identity. the integrity of our work “The Brothers are the at MU – to carry out the soul of this institution and legacy of the patron saint of the broader global network educators: St. John Baptist of Lasallian schools, and their de La Salle,” Chalk wrote. continued engagement on
Elizabeth Nelson, Ph.D., Awarded Costello Award for Excellence in Teaching __________________________ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
11th year at MU, expressed her appreciation for the recognition in a separate interview with The Quadrangle, emphasizing the importance of teaching throughout her career. “It means a whole lot to me,” Nelson said. “I love teaching. The reason that I came to this school is [because] teaching is really, really important to me, and this school values it.” Nelson also explained how receiving the award reflects the university’s continued commitment to education. “Receiving this is just another indication of the importance that MU puts on teaching in the classroom,” Nelson said. “So, that makes me very happy.” Following the award presentation, Paul Droubie, Ph.D., assistant professor of history, introduced this year’s guest speaker, Jennifer Edwards, Ph.D., whose lecture was on “History in Practice: Classroom Simulations and Medieval Scholarship.” Edwards discussed how her research on medieval women, gender and political
authority has influenced her approach to teaching. Her presentation explored how classroom simulations, also known as “reacting games,” allow students to participate in historical debates by assuming the roles of individuals from the past. “I wanted to talk about how scholarship and pedagogy inform each other,” Edwards said. “How do our students learn from what it is that we study, and how does what we study come into the classroom?” Throughout the lecture, Edwards emphasized how interactive learning can encourage students to participate in discussions and develop a deeper understanding of historical events. “Reacting builds community in the class,” Edwards said. “It helps break the tension and encourage new people to participate, and it makes a meaningful difference in student recall of historical information.” Edwards also explained how her teaching methods connect historical scholarship to issues students encounter today. “I teach you the really distant past,” Edwards said.
“But what I teach is really relevant in the present, and so I wanted to have stories that made students think about where they are in the world, as well as what was going on 1,500 years ago.” During the event, Edwards invited students and members of the history club executive board to demonstrate one of her classroom simulations in front of the audience. Molly Gilmartin, senior history and peace studies double major and president of the history club, participated in the demonstration and reflected on the experience. “We’ve never had microphones [during reaction games] before,” Gilmartin said. “I thought it was really fun [to participate in the lecture].” The lecture concluded with a question-and-answer session, allowing audience members to engage in further discussion about Edwards’ research and teaching methods. Edwards reflected on the importance of the annual lecture in bringing the university community together to recognize academic achievement and
Dr. Elizabeth Nelson awarded Costello Award for Excellence in Teaching. ISAIAH MINAZ /THE QUADRANGLE the value of education. scholarship and teaching all “The lecture is an together,” Edwards said. opportunity for us to Editor’s Note: Maddie remember who we are, Rosado contributed to and to come together to reporting* celebrate research and
News
NOVEMBER 10, 2026
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Manhattan Caucus: “...how extremely expensive it is to be poor”
The Economy, a Big Concern in 2026 Midterm Voting Zendrah Bonnick Asst. News Editor
On Tuesday, Nov. 3, polling stations around the nation closed, marking the end of the 2026 General Election. The midterms had seats up for reelection in the U.S. House of Representatives, the Senate and local governors. Millions of Americans participated in electing the representatives that will make up the new congress in months to come and selecting their governors. While the count still continues in some states, as of Nov. 6, some races have yet to be called. Public opinion and documented statistics of the nation’s feelings on some big issues can give a perspective on why and how the nation is voting. In a survey conducted by the Associated Press(AP), approximately 39% of voters surveyed stated that “the economy” was their response to the prompt, “Percent of voters nationally who said each issue was the most important facing the country.” In July of this year, AP’s analysis of figures by the Bureau of Labor Statistics
on the cost of groceries stated, “Buying food to eat at home has gotten 33% more expensive in U.S. cities since the beginning of 2019.” The price increase has further exacerbated the financial burden on low-income Americans. According to AP, “fewer people have the same buffer after the Trump administration tightened SNAP eligibility requirements last year. As of April, 37 million Americans were enrolled in the program, a 12% decline from a year earlier, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.” A f f o r d a b i l i t y, government spending and costs were on millions of Americans minds, being that is affected by a variety of issues. A diving concern that was summarized by American author James Baldwin over 6 decades ago, “Anyone who has ever struggled with poverty knows how extremely expensive it is to be poor.” The economy was followed by the second most recurring response “the state of democracy,” was the primary concern for the 33% of the survey voters. In June of this year, Pew Research Center surveys found, “around seven-in-ten
U.S. adults (69%) say they are dissatisfied with the way democracy is working in their country.” Other prevalent subjects on voters’ minds had a wide range from expressing support or opposition towards the current administration to concerns involving immigration, healthcare and the war in Iran. In a study conducted by Pew Research Center on Oct. 26 of this year, it found that many Americans had a negative view of Immigration and Customs Enforcement despite the department receiving billions of dollars in taxpayer money. “A majority of Americans (56%) now say they have an unfavorable opinion of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the federal agency at the center of many of the Trump administration’s increased deportation efforts,” the center stated. In August of 2022 ,the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) analyzed the issue of affording healthcare in the United States. “The cost of health care in the United States far exceeds that in other wealthy nations across the globe,” according to AAMC. “In
2020, U.S. health care costs grew 9.7%, to $4.1 trillion, reaching about $12,530 per person. The U.S. health care system continues to place a disproportionate cost burden on the patients who can least afford it. In the short term, policymakers could focus on targeted subsidies to specific populations — the families and individuals whose household incomes fall outside the average or who have health care expenses that fall outside the average — whose health care costs are unmanageable.” By 2024 the cost of healthcare had already increased past the rate this initial statement by AAMC to have already been problematic. “Health spending in the U.S. increased by 7.2% in 2024 to $5.3 trillion or $15,474 per capita. This growth rate closely matched the 7.4% rise in 2023, and apart from the 10.5% surge in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2023 and 2024 growth rates are the highest recorded since 2003 (8.6%),” AAMC stated in 2024. On the Iran war, Pew Research Center found stated “Around two-thirds of Americans (65%) disapprove of the way President Donald Trump is handling the
U.S. military action in Iran, while a third (33%) approve, according to a new Pew Research Center survey.” A statement by CNBC delved further into the cost of gas following the start of the war. “Higher prices for gas and other energy products have cost the average American household nearly $1,230 since the start of the Iran war, according to an analysis from [economist Mark Zandi].” Millions of Americans expressed exhaustion over the cost of living and health in America via their vote. While economics is the most easily quantified issue, discontentment has grown substantially as widespread disillusionment with ICE, American foreign policy and the wealth gap increases in one of the world’s wealthiest nations. People have begun to challenge the necessity of the Unites States’ existing conditions, particularly for the working class; raising questions of the value of labor, health, liberty and life from the perspective of workers diverging from the values of industry and corporations.
Features
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Faith and Resistance: Martha Hennessey Reyna Orlova Contributor
On Tuesday Nov. 3, Manhattan University (MU) hosted an event focused on activist Dorothy Day’s granddaughter, Martha Hennessy, where she discussed how faith and peace can mean non-violent action. Martha Hennessy, peace activist and granddaughter to Dorothy Day, visited MU and shared both her and her grandmother’s thoughts on the current state of the world. During the talk, she urged for non-violent acts of change around the world. Hennessy shared with The Quadrangle how her faith shaped this mindset. “I think Jesus was trying to show us…love thy neighbor, put up your sword,” Hennessy said. “... Have mercy, take pity and love your enemy. If I’m going to call myself a Catholic, I need to reject violence, reject war, especially modern warfare.” Hennessy’s faith sits at the crux of her mission,
but she shared that her grandmother also influences her action towards peace. During the talk, Hennessy informed the crowd that her childhood is distinctly marked by her mother, Tamar Batterham Hennessy, and Day’s messages and actions. “One of the first things I remember holding onto is [when] both of them said, ‘Pay attention to the suffering of others,’” Hennessy said. “‘Not only pay attention to the suffering of others, but care about it and do something.’ So that was instilled very early in me by Tamar and Dorothy.” Kevin Ahern Ph.D., chair of the department of religion and philosophy at MU as well as the director of the Dorothy Day Center, showed that Day’s impact stretched far beyond her family and into the hearts of many hoping to make positive change to the world. “...[Dorothy] is a woman who tried to live her life with integrity,” Ahern said. “And that is not an easy thing to do in our world. To practice what you preach, and that challenges me to try and do
The lecture opened discussion to the campus community. REYNA ORLOVA / THE QUADRANGLE
Martha Hennesy, the granddaughter of Dorothy Day, presents on peace and non-action. REYNA ORLOVA / THE QUADRANGLE
that, and to try and do that boldly.” Ahern is heavily involved in sharing Day’s legacy within the university. He
worked on the creation of the Dorothy Day Center, which can be contacted at ddcenter@manhattan.edu, and shared that the center serves as an embodiment of MU’s Lasallian values and as a promotion of Day’s work. “[The center] is hopefully a way to inspire students first and foremost to take action and be involved in the world,” Ahern said. “And to be involved in social action. [MU] has a long tradition of working on peace and justice issues. We’re one of the first universities to have a peace studies program and a major, so we’re tapping into a legacy that’s a counter witness to the temptations to work…only for profit.” Casey Mullaney, member of the Catholic Worker movement and the Dorothy Day Guild as well as a writer for The Catholic Worker newspaper, shared how the Catholic Worker movement first began. “The Catholic Worker movement started as a newspaper, and then the houses of hospitality, the farms, the active resistance, work out in the world,”
Mullaney said. “All of that comes from a desire to put into practice the ideals expounded in the paper. So, the paper is there as the organ of the movement.” Mullaney shared that The Catholic Worker newspaper serves as an alternative way to spread the gospel. “...The paper is really a means of offering the spiritual works of mercy… it’s a way of announcing the good news,” Mullaney said. “And it should be denouncing the ways that our world has failed to bring about this vision of peace, of harmony, of justice.” To end the event, Hennessy emphasized the importance of young people not losing hope in our current climate. She acknowledges the mess made for the youth but asks us to be brave in the face of it. “Give each other courage,” Hennessy said. “Do the work that’s at hand. Find out what you can do where you are. Find your vocation that contributes to the common good.”
Features
NOVEMBER 10, 2026
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Manhattan University Celebrates Annual Jasper Day of Wellness Erioluwa Akin-Salami Contributor
On Nov. 4, Manhattan University (MU) hosted Jasper Day of Wellness, an annual day-off of classes given to students filled with relaxing activities meant to encourage student wellbeing. These events range from petting animals or watching movies, and opportunities extend as far as a free Pilates class. Lyala Jones, a Pilates instructor based on the Upper East Side at 87th St. and York Avenue. Jones has been practicing for nearly 3 years and promotes her classes on her Instagram, @nycmatpilates. After a class, she explained to The Quadrangle some of the reasons why Pilates is a great activity for Wellness Day. “Movement is medicine,”
Jones said. “Pilates are great for people who suffer from mental health issues because it builds your endorphins. Notice how, regardless of how people felt when they came in [to the class], everyone left smiling.” Jones additionally shared with The Quadrangle the negative impact of the online aesthetic given to Pilates, and explained that Pilates is a wellness exercise anyone can participate in. “The rhetoric used online is a trick, Pilates was created in a prison.” Jones said, “So, take away the matchas, matching [workout] sets and then Pilates becomes something everyone, including men, can do.” Molly Brennan, a senior psychology major and the treasurer of the psychology club at MU, sees Wellness Day as a perfect day-off for students. Brennan hosted the “Smash the Plate”
event held from 12-2 p.m. in Walsh Plaza. She told The Quadrangle about how the psychology club first proposed “Smash the Plate,” and with some safety alterations, it became a recent staple Wellness Day event. “When the psychology club started Smash the Plate as a club event, the school had safety concerns,” Brennan said. “So, we adjusted by smashing plates in a trash bag and using a hammer to prevent mess, and we do it for Wellness Day.” Brennan expressed to The Quadrangle how “Smash the Plate” can be a great way for students to relieve stress. “People are able to write down their feelings and by breaking their plate, they are able to let go of those feelings,” Brennan said. When asked by The Quadrangle if Wellness
Day activities help with the general well-being of students, she told the paper that these activities are good ways to curate a positive mental state for students during a stressful period in the semester. “Wellness Day being scheduled right after midterms but perfectly before the denser part of the semester is beneficial for a lot of students,” Brennan said. “It releases some stress from the continuous work and class routine many students struggle to manage.” The Quadrangle spoke to Sara Lipanda, a freshman biology major at MU. She shared that while Wellness Day may be a day filled with events, it can also be a rest day for many students, including her. “I used Wellness Day as a rest day,” Lipanda said. “Midterms came up quick and finals are coming up. It
is a break for students after their midterms and before their finals.” Lipanda believes that this day-off is essential for freshmen, who have just come to university and are still adjusting to rigorous coursework. “Wellness Day is a good thing, especially for freshmen,” Lipanda said. “We are adjusting to college life, so we need a little break both mentally and physically from all the homework, assignments and difficult classes.” Though typically held in the spring semester, this year’s Wellness Day provided Jaspers a way to unwind and reconnect with each other through various activities, classes and experiences, all in the fall. To stay updated with more of the university’s student interest activities, be sure to follow @mustudentengage on Instagram.
Students enjoyed a Jasper Day of Wellness filled with furry friends and various activities. ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF: BARBARA VASQUEZ, REYNA ORLOVA & @MANHATTANEDU / COURTESYI
Arts and Entertainment
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Manhattan University’s Sanctus Artem: How Creative Outlets Help College Students María Castaño
Art & Entertainment Editor
Manhattan University’s (MU) art club, Sanctus Artem, has expanded its campus presence through weekly events and a leadership structure designed to sustain its growth. Under Lucas Haas ’26, the club introduced regular executive board meetings to plan events ahead of time and a shadow board to prepare future leaders. Aine Kolpa, a junior biology major and the club’s president, emphasized the importance of organization and consistency in strengthening the executive board. “I think as the executive board is more confident and comfortable in their position, it’s reflected in the club because it’s more organized and more cohesive,” Kolpa said. Eloiza Sanchez, a senior biology major and Sanctus Artem’s secretary, discussed how the club organizes and funds museum and exhibition trips while maintaining its regular
Supplies used on a collage making event on Oct. 22. @SANCTUSARTEM / INSTAGRAM
for our members,” Sanchez said. “Our executive board also holds meetings every Monday to stay on top of our budget and planning for the future… If not for our organization and teamwork, Sanctus Artem truly would not stand to be what it is now.” Through consistent programming, Sanctus Artem has become an established part of the campus community. Weekly gatherings also give students a consistent opportunity to build friendships beyond their usual circles. Its relaxed atmosphere and welcoming events allow students to participate, even on their own, and express themselves without feeling pressured to know anyone beforehand or feel excluded. Karen Lima, a senior management and marketing major, told The Quadrangle Sanstus Artem logo and instagram profile picture. why Sanctus Artem matters @SANCTUSARTEM / INSTAGRAM to her and how she believes weekly events. “With our new faculty advisor, professor [Tannon] Reckling, we are getting way more experiences for art majors and exhibition trips
the club’s work can support then have something to be students who may be facing proud of is very important,” difficult or isolating times Perry said. “And it’s a step during university. away from your classes, “People go there [to but not a step away from Sanctus Artem’s events] to campus life.” de-stress and meet people,” The club’s community Lima said. “I was actually impact is also evident going through a hard time, in its accessible social so I went [and] it was really environment for students nice… I did show up alone across disciplines. Kolpa [the first time she went to emphasized how the club an event], and I was like, oh, gives students an easy and this is really nice. There’s welcoming way to connect snacks and music, so it’s not with one another. quiet and weird.” “I think everybody in Birdie Perry, a senior there is going in there international studies major with [a] common goal,” and the club’s events Kolpa said. “They like art, coordinator, echoed Lima’s they want to create art, perspective, describing the and so that itself is the club’s focus on providing conversation starter for students with a judgment- them to meet new people.” free space to unwind and connect with others on campus. “Having somewhere [to] go where you know you’ll always find a friend, and you get to make something and take it home with you and
NOVEMBER 10, 2026
Arts and Entertainment
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Movie Review: “Obsession” Zendrah Bonnick Assistant News Editor
“Obsession” is a horror story about bodily autonomy. Directed and written by YouTuber and filmmaker Curry Barker, “Obsession” was a widespread hit among audiences. Released on May 16, 2026, the film was a historic success, especially for the oftenoverlooked horror genre. Those looking to see the film should note that it does include significant themes and depictions of abuse and sexual assault. The film opens on the protagonist, Baron Bailey, referred to as Bear, on a staged practice date, preparing to ask out his childhood friend, co-worker, and an aspiring writer, Nikki Freeman. Later in the day, Bear goes to a shop and browses the crystal section to buy a gift for Nikki, instead opting to buy a “One Wish Willow,” a novelty toy item that claims to grant one wish to its user. Nikki, Bear and their friends all go out to a bar together. When leaving, Bear offers to take Nikki home; he says he’ll get her home safely, and he does not deliver on this promise. During the car ride, Nikki tells Bear about her plan to leave the job where she, Bear, and their two other friends work. Nikki intends to pursue her dream of becoming a writer. Specifically, she tells Bear she wants to write love stories. To which Bear responds, “So it’s a romance”. Nikki corrects him, reaffirming, “No... it’s not a romance. It’s a love story”. “Isn’t that the same thing?” Bear replies. The short conversation
was interested in Nikki, and Nikki showed no such interest in Bear. The discussion makes Bear uncomfortable, leading him to shut it down, becoming defensive over any implication that his behavior is predatory. Within the privacy of Bear’s home, the dynamic between the two is even stranger than that’s apparent to outside observers. When Bear leaves the house without Nikki, she waits for him, not moving through the entirety of the day, leading her to soil herself while she stares at the door waiting for Bear to return. At one point in the film after Bear called the “One Wish Willow” customer service who confirms that Nikki is only with him physically because of his wish, not because she wanted to be, but because she had no other choice in or control in the matter. When he calls the customer service worker, he allows him to hear Nikki, who still holds the hope that Bear will help her. Nikki hoped he didn’t know what was happening to her, but from the audience’s perspective, it is obvious that Nikki has not been herself from the first moment she is seen after Bear makes his wish. The customer service worker informs Bear that the only way to make this stop is for either him or Nikki to die. Later in the film, there is a rare glimpse of the real Nikki; Nikki begs Bear to kill her. He responds, “What would be— what’s so bad about being with me?” Obsession’s horror does not lie in the supernatural but in this story’s moments grounded in reality. Bear is ordinary. He is a normal man, not a good one, but one that has been normalized globally. He is not a shapeshifter or a monster; he is just a man. Bear insists he loves Nikki, but this only allows him to rationalize the hurt he causes. Bear claiming to love Nikki does help her, doesn’t save her, and doesn’t even prove he Ian’s perspective prior to the actually does love her or even night at the bar, Ian knew Bear likes her, considering how he
between Nikki and Bear tells the audience not only that there is a discrepancy between how the two both view love but also that Nikki views Bear as a friend to whom she confides her dreams and trusts. While Nikki was leaving the car, Bear makes an allusion to her past in high school, calling Nikki, “freaky Nikki,” although he is aware she dislikes this nickname. This leads Nikki to ask Bear if he likes her. Bear responds that he likes her as a friend. After talking to Bear in the car, Nikki walks up to her front door. The audience hears Nikki’s door, and Bear breaks the “One Wish Willow” while saying, “I wish Nikki Freeman loved me more than anyone in the f---ing world.” Nikki’s behavior changes instantaneously. She moves back towards Bear’s car, and she never goes home. Bear takes her to his home and kisses Nikki, stopping when she screams, in a moment of brief lucidity and pushes him away out of confusion. Eventually returning to her infatuation with Barry that seemed to develop suddenly. As multiple characters point out throughout the film, Nikki previously only viewed Bear as a “brother.” For the majority of the film, Bear and the “New Nikki” are a couple. The dynamic is strange even to Bear’s friends, with his best friend Ian noting that when he spoke to Nikki, she mentioned she was having a difficult time with family issues surrounding her father, and he thought it was strange for Bear to be dating her when she is struggling. Especially because, from
Obsession Movie Poster, Courtesy of GrandSon. GRANDSONLA/WEBSITE treats her. To Bear, love exists in isolation. Bear has a romanticized idea of love and himself. To Bear, love disregards all pain and rejection; it’s unrelenting, which is why Bear does not understand what a love story is. He acts as though he can somehow declare his love for Nikki into reality so loudly as to erase the contrasting reality of his own actions towards her. In the film, Bear sexually assaults Nikki. The film calls attention to sexual violence and a disregard for bodily autonomy, telling the story through the perspective of a man who cares more about being viewed as predatory than actually being a predator. Bear is both the protagonist and antagonist of the film. While
a lot of discourse grew out of the release of the film, Bear is objectively a rapist who sees himself as a “nice guy.” He is a coward and abuser whose actions lead to all the deaths and suffering that take place in the film. Yet he behaves as though he is passive in this story, victimized and caring for his girlfriend. While the magic of film is not real, the form of sexual violence and violations of autonomy it portrayed are born out of real issues that remain as pervasive and prevalent as ever. Resources for rape survivors can be found at RAINN, the National Sexual Violence Resource Center. Contact the NYPD Sex Crimes Report Line: 212-2677273.
Arts and Entertainment
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Movie Review: COYOTE vs. ACME Reyna Orlova Staff Writer
Meep Meep! Or, beep beep! Now that I’ve actually seen James Gunn and Jeremy Slater’s 2026 “Coyote vs. ACME” film, I can confirm that the Road Runner from Warner Bros.’ “Looney Tunes” actually says beep beep! This film is very similar to the 1988 film “Who Framed Roger Rabbit,” which also features humans and cartoons on screen simultaneously. This movie was hilarious, entertaining and touching all at once. It was very apparent that deep passion went behind the creation of this film. I first heard about this movie through people on TikTok who were fighting for it to be released. Apparently, once the film was practically complete, Warner Bros. refused to present it in theaters. For years, the community and workers behind this movie fought for it to be shown. A studio called Ketchup Entertainment bought the movie’s rights in August 2025 and was responsible for its release. It’s a good thing it was not shelved, because it was an amazing movie. John Cena was actually hilarious in this, especially his scene with Tweety Bird, where he
Photo of Coyote vs. Acme. SLUGMAG.COM / WEBSITE looks disgusted to his core about a talking bird. Trying to explain the plot is nonsensical, as many “Looney Tunes” plots tend to be, but the story follows Wile E. Coyote’s typical attempts to capture the Road Runner. He eventually hires a lawyer to sue the company ACME. In the old cartoons, ACME is the company that sells all of his gadgets, like rocket boosters and paint-on
Photo of Coyote vs. Acme Movie Poster. IMDB.COM/WEBSITE
tunnels. Every time he uses them, he never catches the Road Runner and instead gets hurt himself. Basically, a cartoon coyote finds a lawyer to sue ACME for purposely making their gadgets defunct. Near the end, we find out that it’s all another plan to catch the Road Runner, but he makes a surprisingly sweet bond with his lawyer, Kevin Avery. The whole movie surprised me with how sentimental the characters got with each other while also making me laugh the entire time. It was such a perfect mix of fun and seriousness. My personal favorite scene was the ending, where the Road Runner shows up to Wile E. Coyote’s trial and testifies for him. A close second was the scene with John Cena and Tweety Bird. Without spoiling too much, the ending was really sweet. It showed that the Road Runner and Wile E. Coyote are actually friends,
despite Wile E. Coyote wanting to eat the former, and it brought a sweet ending despite the fact that they didn’t actually win the case. What really made it a good movie was that the credits gave thanks to the people who fought to have the movie shown. I think in a time where AI movies and shows are slowly becoming more accepted, that true, impassioned human artwork means more than it ever has before in history. The actors, the animators and the writers truly put their all into making a faithful, entertaining, emotionally charged and all-around fun movie. I think the recent passing of Eric Bauza, best known for the role of Bugs Bunny, but who also voices basically every other “Looney Tunes” character, made this film even more bittersweet. I thought it was lovely that such an iconic voice actor got such a carefully crafted film as his final sendoff for
the characters he was most known for. Please go watch this film and support real artists! It’s important in this age of slop at the cinema that we go out and support risk-takers who give us new, fresh content. I promise, if you go see this movie, you’ll either leave laughing about John Cena’s performance or crying about the final scene with Wile E. Coyote and the Road Runner!
NOVEMBER 10, 2026
Sports
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Jaspers Fall Against University of Albany, 72-68 Jayden Gonzalez Photographer
The Manhattan University men’s basketbal team faced defeat against the University of Albany on Nov. 5, 2026. Featuring Ognjen Stankovic (16), Quron Elliott (10) and Josiah Sabino (12).
Sports
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Women’s Basketball Starts Off New Season with Win Against Pace University Ariana Cariddo Staff Writer
Manhattan University (MU) women’s basketball team opened its 2026-27 season with a win against Pace University on Monday, Nov. 2, at Draddy Gymnasium. Led by Head Coach Heather Vulin, who enters her 11th season with the Jaspers, Manhattan set the tone early and maintained control throughout the game. MU took an early 16-11 lead after the first quarter and continued to extend its advantage in the second, outscoring Pace 15-6 to enter halftime ahead 31-17. The Jaspers maintained their momentum in the third quarter, adding 19 points while holding Pace to 10. Manhattan carried its lead into the final quarter, securing a 67-42 victory after outscoring Pace in each period. Junior forward Laura Ring made an immediate impact in her first game with the Jaspers, leading Manhattan with 18 points. Ring knocked down four 3-pointers, helping the Jaspers maintain their offensive momentum throughout the game. Ring joins MU after two seasons at Central Wyoming College, where she established herself as a strong offensive presence. During her sophomore season, she averaged 13.8 points and 8.9 rebounds per game while earning All-Region IX team honors, according to her profile
page on GoJaspers. Originally from Dunedin, New Zealand, Ring brings both collegiate experience and an international background to Manhattan’s roster. After making an immediate name for herself on her debut, Ring reflected on her transition to the program and what it meant to begin her career with a win. “I joined this team because I just knew the team culture was really strong and it’s like a family, so I knew I wanted to join that family,” Ring said. Looking ahead to the rest of the season with Ring, she hopes to continue building team chemistry and competing for a championship. “I’m excited to get out there, continue building team chemistry,” Ring said. “I think we can be a strong, competitive team and hopefully get to the championship at the end of the season.” While Ring made an immediate impact in her debut, Vulin was eager about her team’s overall performance in its season opener. With 12 new players on the roster and only three returning from last season, the Jaspers entered the season with a largely new lineup. Despite the roster changes, the Jaspers showed early signs of strong team chemistry in its season opener. Vulin spoke about the time and commitment the players put into their connection. “We have 12 new players on the roster, and I’m just
Manhattan women’s basketball players gather for a team huddle, Nov. 2. ARIANA CARIDDO / COURTESY really proud of the time and commitment they put in to really gel at such an early point of the year,” Vulin said. With the team continuing to develop their connection, Vulin emphasized the team’s versatility and willingness to compete, while pointing out the importance of becoming more consistent, offensively and defensively.
“I feel like we have a lot of different weapons, and this team doesn’t care who gets the credit, they just want to compete,” Vulin said. Vulin also spoke about turnovers and offensive decision-making as an area the team will need to work on moving forward. She highlighted the importance of
The Jasper Dancers perform during the halftime of Manhattan women’s basketball, Nov. 2.
ARIANA CARIDDO/ COURTESY
applying consistent defensive pressure, and trusting the team’s offensive system rather than relying on unnecessary dribbling. “I feel like we had too many forced turnovers tonight, and I think we should push to be more consistent and dominant in terms of our defensive pressure, putting pressure on the ball to slow down their offense,” Vulin said. “I feel like we had a lot of unnecessary dribbles tonight, so just making sure we trust our offense and only dribble when we really need to dribble.” Following the Jaspers’ 67-42 season-opening victory against Pace, MU faced the University of Albany, falling short in a 62-61 loss. After facing Bryant for a home matchup on Nov. 9, MU will prepare for its upcoming game against Fairleigh Dickinson University on Nov. 12. The Jaspers will travel to take on the Knights as they continue to take on the 202627 season.
Sports
NOVEMBER 10, 2026
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Men’s Club Flag Football Routs Iona 63-13 Ahead of Maryland Tournament Emmanouel Sofillas & Reyna Orlova Sports Editor & Contributor
The Manhattan University (MU) men’s club flag football team found the end zone on both sides of the ball against Iona University on Oct. 25, cruising to a 6313 win. The Jaspers scored multiple offensive and defensive touchdowns in the rout. For junior communication major and team captain, Luke Belmonte, the difference between the playing teams was MU’s ability to control the game on offense and defense. “We were able to march down the field offensively, but we were also able to give our offense more chances by getting defensive takeaways,” Belmonte said. “We were also able to score on each side of the ball, getting multiple offensive and defensive touchdowns.” The defense made its mark early. MU started the game on defense and came up with a pick-six within the first couple of plays, according to teammate Josh LaTourette. “From that moment on, we were in the driver’s seat for the rest of the game, no doubt,” LaTourette said. LaTourette noted that the offense continued to capitalize on the defense’s performance throughout the game. However, the Jaspers did not get off to a perfect start. Belmonte expanded on how the defense came out flat, allowing Iona to score an early touchdown following a series of mishandled plays. “We took our problems lightly and everyone
understood what they had to do to change,” Belmonte said. “But getting back on the offensive side was definitely a turning point after that. We kept our foot on the pedal offensively; everyone trusts that Josh (QB) would put the ball where it needed to be.” Junior computer engineering major, Darron Nelson, one of the team’s four captains, commented that the Jaspers responded right away. “After Iona’s first touchdown, we all knew that there couldn’t be another drive like that allowed,” Nelson said “We flipped that switch on for the rest of the game and didn’t let off the brakes.” Belmonte called the offense’s return to the field a turning point. He said the Jaspers kept their “foot on the pedal” and trusted their quarterback to put the ball where it needed to be. Nelson pointed to the team’s energy as the biggest factor in the win. “The team was set on an outcome,” Nelson said. “And we chased that outcome throughout all four quarters.” Belmonte explained that focus starts with the team’s chemistry, which he called one of its biggest strengths. “As a captain, I look throughout the team and not only see teammates, but I see interconnected friend groups,” Belmonte wrote in an email to The Quadrangle. “I see people who are excited to practice and excited to play alongside one and other. These relationships are a catalyst for communication and the ability to take criticism from each other, which allows the
team to flow as one.” Nelson echoed this sentiment, noting that practices have brought the team closer together. “The practices we have combine both discipline and playfulness, allowing the team to flip the switch when need be,” Nelson wrote in an email to The Quadrangle. LaTourette said the team has made major strides since its first practice. “Everyone is always dialed in,” LaTourette wrote in an email to The Quadrangle. “Looking back
at the first practice to where we are now, it is an incredible difference on both sides of the ball.” The lopsided score also gave the Jaspers a chance to show off their depth. “We have an incredibly deep roster,” LaTourette wrote. “Being able to put up a score like this allows for more players to get reps, and it shows that no matter who we have on the field, we will perform.” Nelson hopes the win sends a message to the rest of MU’s opponents.
“Most teams may think we are a team to overlook this season, us being a smaller school from New York, but it’s never about the size of the dog,” Nelson wrote. “It’s always about the heart, and this team has a whole lot of it.” The Jaspers will look to carry that mindset into their next games, tournament play at the University of Maryland on Nov. 8, where Belmonte said the team plans to “continue to play as one.”
Photo of Flag Football player. @MANHATTAN_FOOTBALL INSTAGRAM/INSTAGRAM
Sports
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Games of the Week Emmanouel Sofillas & Reyna Orlova Sports Editor & Contributor
Women’s Soccer Earlier last week, on Nov. 4, Manhattan University’s (MU) women’s soccer team won their home game against the Iona University Gaels During the game, Marlene Berlinghoff scored her first goal of the season and the winning goal of the match. Berlinghoff’s penalty shot around the 48-minute mark of the game would go on to be the moment that got the Jaspers their 0-1 victory. Throughout the game, both teams remained evenly matched, as both worked hard to defend against the other team from scoring and advancing. The Jaspers’ goalie, Molly Brunk, added two more saves to her career record. Talia Omer, Eryn Primus, Lily Bandel and Berlinghoff all played an integral role in the match, being on the field a total of 90 minutes each. Through the entirety
The women’s soccer team fell to Siena University in their post-season match up. @JASPERWSOC/INSTAGRAM of the match, the teams’ offenses were unwavering in their attempts to push further ahead. Nearing approximately 85 minutes into the game, Brunk successfully blocked Iona’s attempt to score, helping secure the Jaspers a place
in the playoffs and moving them to their post season. Women’s Basketball On Nov. 2, MU’s women’s basketball had an energetic game hosted from their Riverdale-based home court
The Jaspers fell to University of Albany with a final score of 72-68. GOJASPERS.COM / COURTESY
in Draddy Gymnasium, getting a 25-point victory over Pace University. The final score of the game was 42-67. Laura Ring scored two 3-point shots in the 2nd quarter of the game. Other highlights from the game included Laia Izquierdo and Amanda Baumgarte putting up a combined total of an additional 14 points before halftime. Baumgarte also led the team in rebounds, making eight during the game. Later in the week, the MU men’s and women’s basketball teams both took on UAlbany’s basketball teams. MU’s women’s basketball team was away for this week’s game. The team traveled to Albany on Nov. 5 to face off against the Great Danes, facing a tense match. Freshmen players Alexia Bujold, guard, and Noa Lopez, guard, both had a standout performance in the game. Bujold scored 19 points in 34 minutes, and in 16 minutes Lopez landing six shots from the threepoint line. In the third quarter, the Great Danes had a comeback, winning the
game with 67-42 as the final score. Men’s Basketball The Jaspers men’s basketball team followed a similar trajectory to the women’s UAlbany game during their Nov. 5 home opener game, following their celebratory Fall Frenzy tailgate. The home game had a large audience to support the players as well as watch performances from other sports like cheer, who came to cheer players on. The team had some notable highlight moments, with two freshmen forwards who brought a combined 28 points for the Jaspers. Forward Eric Dušan was a standout, scoring 16 points in 19 minutes, breaking his own previous career best. Followed by forward Novak Manojlovic who put up 12 points in 19 minutes. The game was neck and neck throughout, but concluded with a final score of 72-68, with UAlbany holding the 4-point lead and the win against the Jaspers.