Issue 1, Spring 2022- The Quadrangle

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NEW YORK, JANUARY 25, 2022

2022 Commencement to be Held in New Jersey Jilleen Barrett & Caroline McCarthy

Managing Editor/Features Editor & Sports Editor

The Jaspers Return for Spring 2022 Students are headed back to campus after a delay in in-person instruction.

MANHATTN.EDU/ COURTESY

Spring Semester Classes to Begin Online According to a One Manhattan email, the spring semester will begin remotely, with students attending class online from Jan. 19 to 25.

This decision was announced on Friday, Jan. 14 via email from the One Manhattan co-chairs: Esmilda Abreu-Hornbostel, interim vice president of student life and dean of students, Tamara Britt, vice president for legal and external affairs/chief of staff and Steven Schreiner, provost and vice president for academic affairs.

The email cites a high rate of positive tests in the college’s area that caused concern for possible disruptions during the initial week of classes due to necessary quarantine protocols.

“By offering all cours-

es remotely during the first five teaching days, we create an equitable and safe learning environment for our students and alleviate many logistical challenges associated with the return,” the email read. “For example, all students and faculty testing positive during the required testing window prior to the start of the term will have the ability to participate in their classes … In-person learning continues to be a gold standard of learning for our traditional undergraduate students, and this plan allows us a prudent and expeditious path to the classroom.”

Schreiner told The Quadrangle that the OneManhattan committee understood that the five day testing window was short, which increased challenges for returning students and faculty. According to Schreiner, the decision to postpone in-person instruction came on Thursday night just

IN NEWS:

IN FEATURES:

Kyla Guilfoil Editor-in-Chief

Graham Walker, Beloved MC Professor, Dies at 66 on pg. 5

Supporting Bronx Fire Victims at MC on pg. 6

hours before the announcement on Friday, Jan. 14.

“We wanted to make sure everyone knew ahead of time what was going to happen,” Schreiner told The Quadrangle. “We needed a little bit more of a window to understand what the data would look like as students came in and what kind of positive rate we saw, because ultimately, students who are positive or in close contact quarantine could not attend class.”

Schreiner says that the intake of positive cases was not above what was expected, and that the plan to start with remote learning has allowed students and faculty who are positive to remain off-campus. He added that many of the positive cases that MC administration were alerted to were symptomatic cases, wherein MC communi__________________________ CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

Spring 2022 Manhattan College graduates will not walk the stage in New York, but rather in New Jersey this year — likely in the Meadowlands Exposition Center.

Due to rising concerns of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 and fears from the administration of New York City restrictions, Manhattan College has opted not to have the ceremony at its former home, Draddy Gymnasium, and instead, hold it in New Jersey to try and avoid vaccine regulations.

Steven Schreiner, Provost of the college, explained how this decision was made.

“This really began last year, right after commencement was done,” Schreiner said. “This wasn’t a sudden thing for us.”

According to Schreiner, the administration was focused on giving commencement as much flexibility as possible, something that has proven to be easier outside of New York City because of COVID rules and regulations.

“Last year we were getting put into this box of, this is all we can do,” Schreiner said in regard to COVID regulations for New York City gatherings.

“And people wanted us to do much more.”

The 2021 graduation included several ceremonies as COVID regulations forced the school to split the graduates up into smaller groups to receive their diplomas. These ceremonies were held in the Kelly Student Commons without guests, so there was a virtual broadcast for friends and family. Manhattan College is looking to avoid similar circumstances for the graduates of 2022.

“We are still in the planning stages of this,” Schreiner said. “But we’ll see if we find a venue that gives us that flexibil-

IN A&E: Sanctus Artum to Continue its Post-Lockdown Comeback on pg. 10

ity to stage it to give us the best chance of not having a small room with just students you know, six feet apart, then that’s where we’re going to start.”

That venue has potentially been found at the Meadowlands Exposition Center in Secaucus, New Jersey — a 30-minute-drive from campus without traffic. Other venues in New York were explored but still confined the college to New York laws regarding COVID-19. The most pressing regulation remained unvaccinated community members being allowed within a New York building.

“We won’t have to turn away a grandparent or a parent or brother or sister or a student who’s unvaccinated,” Schreiner said in regard to having graduation in New Jersey. “I think that’s fine for our community.

I really do — and we can do it safely.”

Margaret Groarke, Ph.D. is the chair of faculty affairs and a professor of political science at Manhattan. She spoke to The Quadrangle about why a location such as the Meadowlands might be more convenient for people despite its location being further than many prefer.

“There’s massive parking at the Meadowlands, it’s a climate controlled location. The seating will be more comfortable than folding chairs people sit in, in reality,” Groarke said.

Manhattan students shared concerns not only about graduating in a different state than their campus, but also for the safety of their loved ones who planned on attending the ceremony.

“It feels like the school is catering to the unvaccinated people,” Helena Lippolis, vice president of commuter affairs for student government said. “[Provost Shreiner] told me word for word, ‘We need to protect the minority’.” __________________________ CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

IN SPORTS:

Track and Field Wins Big on pg.

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Opinions & Editorials

2

THE QUADRANGLE

Volume CV, Issue 1 January 25, 2022

The Editorial Board Kyla Guilfoil Editor-in-Chief

LETTER from The Editor

Welcome back Jaspers! My name is Kyla Guilfoil and I will be your editor-in-chief this year. I am a sophomore political sciAnna Woods Jilleen Barrett ence and communications major concentrating in journalism and Managing Editor Managing Editor minoring in women and gender studies. I grew up in Rochester, Nicole Fitzsimmons Angelina Persaud NY, where I learned I actually really hate the cold.

News Editor Asst. News Editor Nonetheless, I am an east coast girl at heart, moving only ever-so-slightly closer to the equator for college. I came to ManZoe DeFazio Megan LaCreta hattan College with a clear objective: to write. Writing has always Asst. Arts & Arts & Entertainment Editor been an integral part of my life--it was my first love, and has alEntertainment Editor ways been the only thing to continually make sense to me. The Jilleen Barrett Karen Flores Quadrangle has given me a place to develop that love in a way Features Editor Asst. Features Editor that I didn’t know possible. Here, I have gained both a family and a passion for newswriting. I can’t explain how grateful I am now to Caroline McCarthy Lauren Raziano take my passions further in this new role.

Sports Editor Isaiah Rosario When I first arrived at MC, Gabs DePinho introduced me Asst. Sports Editor to the world of journalism. She set a precedent for what I saw Kelly Kennedy Josh Grewal Social Media Editor Asst. Social Media Editor in an editor-in-chief: intellect, compassion, leadership and drive.

Despite arriving at college amid a global pandemic, I felt so much Mars Ross trust in this paper and what it stood for, largely because of how Adrianne Hutto Photography Editor Production Editor Gabs kept it going amid such challenges. Next, I saw Anna Woods succeed Gabs, and become a brilliant mentor and friend to me along the way. I thank both Gabs and Anna for passing along such Jocelyn Visnov Jocelyn Visnov Mack Olmsted Lauren Raziano an incredible legacy.

Asst. Production Editors Web Editors I’m scared right now by the state of our world. We are at a crossroads, I believe, of what we make of ourselves. Now more than Nicholas Gilewicz ever, it is essential to uphold democracy. That is exactly what the Faculty Advisor free press stands for, and what The Quadrangle continues to represent. We promise to be a beacon of hope for the MC commuAbout The Quadrangle nity, one that can be trusted and will shed light upon our shared A tradition since 1924, The Quadrangle is a news or ganization run by the students of corner of the world. The Quadrangle recognizes just how special Manhattan College. We strive to this MC community is, and deeply values providing it with clear cover news around campus and and honest reporting. the greater community, publishing weekly in print and daily online. Our goal is always accuAs part of this incredible community, The Quadrangle exracy, relevancy and professionalism. tends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, students and The opinions expressed in colleagues of Graham Walker. Walker had a brilliant mind and a The Quadrangle are those of the individual heart that touched so many during his years on campus. It is with writer and do not necessarily reflect the views humble gratitude that we recognize his contributions, and send of the Editorial Board, the College or the student body. our regrets for his sudden passing.

As always, The Quadrangle begins the semester with many Join The Quadrangle aspirations. We hope to serve you and continue the tradition of student-led reporting at Manhattan College. Now, let’s do journalThe Quadrangle’s staff holds weekly open meetings on Tuesdays at 4 p.m. in Kelly ism.

Commons Room 412. All are welcome to come and join the club.

Connect with The Quadrangle

mcquad.org @mcquad @mcquad mcquad

Sincerely,

Kyla Guilfoil

Editor-in-Chief

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JANUARY 25, 2022

Opinions & Editorials

3

It’s Time We Back Up Mental Health Awareness with Action Pete Janny Contributor

Starting out the spring semester online is disappointing, but hopefully temporary as expected. And if this strategy ensures that everybody at Manhattan College has a fair shot at having a successful semester, then so be this first week of online classes.

Hopefully one day we’ll look back and share some laughs about how professors couldn’t navigate google meet or zoom for the life of them — and the sooner the better.

For right now, I understand and respect the college’s efforts to keep all of us safe.

Testing, maybe even more than vaccines, is an effective way to limit the chances of there being outbreaks. Again, whatever promises to be the safest and healthiest option for students I’m all for.

However, there’s another invisible threat out there that

transcends physical health. It deals with a lack of care and attention to address a different pandemic: mental health.

In the college’s email to students on Jan. 14, there was not a single mention of how students can seek mental health services while being away from the physical classroom. The lack of mobilization to make these services available poses a bigger threat to the mental wellness of our community than anything else.

The coronavirus has already dealt a series of blows to the average person’s mental health, but that shouldn’t prevent us from trying to make up for lost time. If anything, the difficulties of the last two years should inspire us to take advantage of the increased mental health awareness and back it up with meaningful action.

That could mean getting creative with our counseling center at the college to provide a direct line of access for stu-

dents who would benefit from different cognitive behavioral and mindfulness techniques.

And I would request that graduate students get the same priority as undergraduates, so that no part of our community gets left behind during these challenging times. I would also vouch for offering extra support to student-athletes who have to deal with the nonstop grind of taking classes and then going to practice with little time to see family in between.

Tackling the challenges of mental health has important long-term and short-term stakes. For too long a societal pendulum has shifted between dealing with the stress of an ever-changing learning environment and fretting over potential long-term psychological effects from the pandemic. Students deserve clarity on what our future looks like.

I try reminding myself often that as tough as we may have it, students in high school, middle

school, and elementary school are trying to weather the storm of mental health challenges even earlier in their developmental years.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, as of Jan. 13, 2022 children have accounted for anywhere between 0 to .26 percent of coronavirus-related deaths. Conversely, according to a 2021 study from the University of California Davis, suicide is the second most common cause of death for people aged 10 to 24; most of whom suffer from a variety of mental health disorders.

Are students supposed to believe that all is good in the world when their friends and classmates are taking their own lives at staggering rates?

Before asking someone of their vaccination status, more importantly ask them how they’re feeling in general. That basic question could make a profound difference for someone struggling inside.

Over these last two years, I’ve often thought about the students from Beardsley Elementary School in Bridgeport, Connecticut. I was fortunate enough to spend some of my high school service hours at Beardsley bonding with what are mostly minority students at the school. Bridgeport is a place that has been plagued by crime and poverty for several decades running, and here was a kind and loving community at Beardsley that embraced me with open arms. The part I loved the most was that the students came ready to learn every day seemingly unconcerned with the problems going on in their city.

What Beardsley taught me was the importance of resilience even on our worst days.

We have lived and learned from the consequences of not prioritizing mental health and my hope is that Manhattan College will soon take action at this critical moment.

To Whom It May Concern, a Discussion about Race: Closed Practices Zoe DeFazio

Asst. Arts and Entertainment Editor To whom it may concern, Tik Tok, the video-based sharing social media network has taken the world by storm these past few years after the death of the beloved app Vine.

Tik Tok is an app most of us are accustomed to. Maybe it’s because of the short attention span we could have or maybe it’s because it’s so unique.

The beauty of Tik Tok is the infinite amount of videos you can see pertaining to a specific topic. You can see people talking about the latest fashion trends, great restaurants, comedy and much more. As great as that may be, Tik Tok could be dangerous when talking about spirituality and religion.

With spirituality and witchcraft taking over Tik Tok it can feel exciting. You can learn the mysteries of life and indulge yourself in the very practices and techniques these Tik Tok creators can offer. But something that is not discussed enough are closed practices.

Spirituality is the sense or feeling that there is something greater than the means of life. Spirituality is about not being concerned with materialism but being with your mind,

body and soul. It’s about taking account of the elements of the earth and venturing out to find the secrets of the universe.

Spiritual practices can coincide with religious beliefs involving polytheism and cultural beliefs.

Because some spiritual practices have to do with cultural background it’s important to know what you can and can’t partake in.

Closed practices are spiritual ways enclosed with a certain ethnic or racial background. In order to practice it, you must be part of it, either by birth or through initiation. Some practices don’t allow initiation though so it can be tricky.

Spirituality and the witch’s life have always been a part of my upbringing. My father’s side was more Wiccan, an open polytheistic practice that originated in Europe. On my mother’s side, however, they were a part of a closed practice.

A predominant civilization in ancient African culture, originally called Yorubaland that now consists of modern-day Nigeria, Togo and Benin believed in the Orishas. These were many powerful deities, but the practice mainly focused on the seven major powers. These seven consisted of Yemaya the goddess of the sea, Shango the god of fire, Oya the goddess of storms, Oshun the goddess

of beauty, Eshu Elegbara the trickster god, Ogun the god of war and Obatala the god of the sky.

When the African diaspora came and enslaved the individuals who harbored the belief in these deities the religion traveled to the new world. As time progressed the religion modernized but still had the same principles. This became the basic foundation of Voodoo culture.

Voodoo has many branches like the government. Those who are Haitian take part in Haitian Vodou who believe in the Lwa. The Lwa are intermediaries between the human world and the spirit world with the creator.

Those who are American and whose family lines go all the way to old Louisiana you can partake in New Orleans Voodoo who shares the majority of the same principles and beliefs as Haitian Vodou. They follow the rules and paths of Marie Laveau, Voodoo queen, herbalist and midwife from the 1800’s.

If you’re Cuban, you may take part in Santeria where Yoruba deities are identified with Roman Catholic saints.

Those who are Afro-Brazilian quite like myself may take part in Candomble, a form of Yoruba in which all Orishas are

recognized.

Unlike the Disney movie “The Princess and The Frog” where the Voodoo shadow man was evil, Voodoo is not much of the sort. Voodoo is just like any other spiritual practice. It takes account of the earth’s elements and people and can be something that’s really beautiful.

Hoodoo, on the other hand, is along the lines of voodoo but also not really. Hoodoo is a broad spiritual practice designated to those who are Black.

So it doesn’t matter if you’re Haitian, Cuban, Brazilian, Caribbean or even American, just as long as you hold African roots. Basically, if you’re black you can partake in this practice.

Hoodoo and Voodoo are not the same things. Hoodoo is more spiritual and a way of mindfulness and superstition with folklore such as throwing salt over your shoulder and never placing your purse on the floor, while Voodoo is more religious and more polytheistic.

These two practices are incredibly important because of their meaning. When the African Diaspora came it stripped all those who were captured and sold of their dignity and freedom. The only things they had were each other and their beliefs. This went so far as to people jumping off the boat because they had faith that their

goddess of the sea would protect them. As time went on and new generations began it became important to pass down these traditions and beliefs in order to hold a sense of self and to remember where we all came from.

Now that spirituality has become increasingly popular the lines of appropriation and appreciation can get murky.

Cultural appropriation is when cultural beliefs or traditions are stolen and slightly altered to be someone else’s idea in the name of a trend. When we as a society adopt practices from outside of our own culture it’s important to be mindful and conscious about where they came from. Appreciation doesn’t hurt anyone but appropriation does.

Tik Tok has the habit of sharing misinformation about practices, especially Hoodoo and Voodoo. It’s always important to do an extensive amount of research before indulging yourself in spiritual practices. But keep in mind that if it doesn’t suit your cultural background then it probably isn’t meant for you. So be mindful but also be curious. But not too curious.

Thank you, Zoe DeFazio A Black woman

News

4

THE QUADRANGLE

2022 Commencement to be Held in New Jersey

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Student government decided to open a poll to graduating seniors, expecting most to vote in favor of having graduation on Manhattan College’s campus.

However, of the 210 graduating seniors who participated, only 66 percent voted for graduation in Draddy Gymnasium, and 44 percent voted for graduation at the Meadowlands.

“It kind of showed us that there isn’t really a general consensus there about how students feel,” said student body president, Kevin Rojas. “A lot of students are worried about the vaccine mandates as well as the other side that are worried that the school might be dodging protocols.”

According to Rojas, the poll featured two options for seniors to choose — graduation held in Draddy Gymnasium at the expense of deferring unvaccinated guests or at the Meadowlands Exposition Center with less strict rules.

“I felt like the options weren’t well thought out,” Lippolis said. “Obviously you’re going to vote for your family to come to graduation.”

The survey, posted on stu-

dent government’s Instagram page @mcstudentgov, received social media backlash from disgruntled students who were unhappy with the decision to move the ceremony off campus. “[In] the comments section, people are thinking or giving suggestions to other locations that are just not viable,” Rojas said.

These options, such as holding graduation ceremonies in Van Cortlandt Park or Gaelic Park, have their own set of obstacles.

“Gaelic is strictly because of the fire codes, and also we don’t own Gaelic,” Rojas said.

“We can’t really build more exits.”

Additional concerns for an outdoor ceremony include the possibility of a rain delay and the exponential cost of having to accommodate for untimely weather shifts.

“There’s huge challenges with being outdoors,” Schreiner said. “The weather is an issue. But [students] tend to say ‘Well, we could get through that.’ Well actually, I’ve planned many graduations in my career now and you can’t get around that if you have an afternoon of

thunderstorms.”

Rojas explained that some of these suggestions are inspired by the class of 2022 feeling like the move will cause a rift in their connection to the campus since they will not be graduating there.

“A lot of the questions or concerns had to do with losing tradition,” he said. “That’s one of the biggest things that came out of it, was students were concerned that, you know, the school’s already gone through so many changes in the last two years with COVID that this might be something else that they lose, and students care a lot about it and they want to be on campus and they have a connection to the campus.”

Sarah Poons, an alumni from the class of 2019, was a member of the last graduating class to have what would be considered a normal graduation ceremony in Draddy Gymnasium before the pandemic began. She wrote in an email to the Quadrangle that having graduation outside of the general Manhattan College area “wouldn’t change the actual integrity of the ceremony, but I think it would change the overall atmosphere of it.”

“I think graduating on or near campus is important,” Poons wrote. “Graduation signifies the end of your time as a Manhattan College student, and I think it was great that we got to receive our degrees right where we made so many memories and met so many amazing people over the years. I also think it was nice to be able to take pictures with my friends afterwards on campus and that we will always have that to look back on.”

Poons description of the graduation she experienced is the exact type of ceremony seniors Maya Tirone-Goehring and Lea Creaven were hoping to have for their class.

“I would much prefer it if graduation was on campus or at least much closer to campus,” Creaven wrote to the Quadrangle. “Graduation is such an important and special event that having it on campus would make it that much more special. If graduation happens in the Meadowlands, I feel that it will really affect the significance of it and make the moment less meaningful for the students.”

According to Schreiner, transportation will be provided

for students and family members. Tirone-Goehring, who expressed a particular concern for immunocompromised people like her father, is worried about having vaccinated and unvaccinated people in crowded spaces.

“You would then have unvaccinated and vaccinated families on the same bus,” Tirone-Goehring said. “I just think it’s causing safety issues.”

Groarke spoke about these issues as well, stating that it will be the college’s responsibility to make sure none of the ceremony’s attendees will be put in an unsafe situation regarding COVID. Schreiner said the exact regulations have not been put in place yet, but the college does plan to have rules that mimic what is done on campus.

“I think by moving to the Meadowlands, it’s up to the college to set sensible rules to make this a safe event for everyone who comes, and so I think the faculty will be looking at great interest to what rules the college is going to establish, to make graduation at the Meadowlands a safe event for everybody.”

Spring Semester Classes to Begin Online CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 ty members had begun getting tested before the required date for return.

Abreu-Hornbostel told The Quadrangle that decisions regarding the college’s COVID response are always ongoing. She explained that the OneManhattan team meets every week, especially because so many different departments require attention.

“So this is dining services, facilities, health services, psychological services, like basically it's triage,” Abreu-Hornbostel said. “And we meet every week because there's not been a single area, even the mailroom, not impacted by COVID, and by having to kind of be attentive to 4000 of us or 5000 of us in our Manhattan community, we want to make sure we're not missing any pieces.”

Abreu-Hornbostel explains that consistent meetings have established new systems that have become normal on campus, such as the daily symptom tracker and grab-and-go dining options.

To further address the situation, the three co-chairs meet more than once a week to establish issues and objectives to bring to the larger group meetings.

This, in part, allowed the OneManhattan team to recognize the concern from parents and students as MC students prepared to travel both nationally and internationally back to campus.

In general, Abreu-Hornbostel shared that the administration is grateful for the response by MC community members.

“I'm so happy to be able to say this as a dean of students that we are blessed with an incredibly cooperative, and caring community,” Abreu-Hornbostel told The Quadrangle. “Our students want to do the right thing.

I've seen that again and again.

So we knew that if we got a little bit more time, people could get there and that's exactly what's been happening.”

Going forward, Schreiner says that COVID-19 cases will be treated as other illnesses have been in the past. That means that faculty will not necessarily be offering remote options but should instead function through in-person instruction and send necessary materials to quarantining students.

Abreu-Hornbostel echoed this sentiment, and added that she is particularly concerned about helping MC seniors to stay on campus this spring.

“I think a lot about seniors because it's the final stretch.

When I greet first year prospective students, I wouldn't say they're coming in to just check out the campus. I talk about graduation, because ultimately that's the journey,” she told The Quadrangle.

Despite the change in scheduling for classes, One Manhattan confirmed that the campus will still be open during the period of online learning, including O’Malley Library and other study spaces. Further, the email encourages students

to maintain their original movein dates for on-campus housing beginning Jan.16.

Beginning Tuesday, Jan. 18, there will be grab-andgo dining options at Locke’s Loft and Kelly Commons. Regular indoor dining will be available beginning Wednesday, Jan. 26.

Face masks will continue to be mandatory for all indoor on-campus spaces.

The email encouraged those on-campus to use medical grade masks such as surgical, KN95 or N95 masks, as well as snug-fitting multi-ply masks.

OneManhattan states that the college will be distributing free KN95 masks throughout campus as the semester begins.

The return email also outlines the quarantine protocol for students and faculty on-campus this semester. As it is mandatory for all personnel to submit a PCR test before returning to campus, those with positive tests will be required to notify Health Services of the positive result and to quarantine for 10 days regardless of vaccination status.

While the CDC now recommends a five day quarantine for those who are vaccinated, the New York City Department of Health still recommends a 10-day quarantine for those who test positive for COVID-19.

However, OneManhattan states that those who have received a booster vaccine, completed the primary series of Pfizer or Moderna vaccines

within the last six months or completed the primary series of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine within the last two months do not need to be quarantined when they have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive, unless they develop symptoms. However, they should wear face masks around others and receive a PCR test five days after their exposure.

Those who have completed the primary series of Pfizer or Moderna vaccines over six months ago and have not received a COVID-19 booster vaccination, completed the primary series of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine over two months ago and have not received a COVID-19 booster vaccination, are partially vaccinated (only one dose of a twodose vaccine series), or are unvaccinated should quarantine for five days after close contact with a positive-testing individual.

After five days, these individuals should obtain a PCR test and will be cleared from quarantine once they receive negative results. For an additional five days, it is encouraged for these individuals to wear a well-fitted, layered mask around others.

Despite vaccination status, OneManhattan urges all individuals to report any symptoms to the Daily Symptom Tracker and to quarantine until they receive a negative test result.

The college will be offering COVID-19 testing

on-campus during the upcoming days. On Saturday, Jan. 15 from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Smith Auditorium there will be saliva-based PCR testing available. No registration is required for this testing, and it is asked that you do not eat or drink anything 30 minutes prior to testing.

Both PCR and rapid tests will be available on Jan. 18, 19 and 20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is necessary to register for these tests before 9 p.m. the evening prior to attending.

While classes will not begin in-person until Jan. 26, students are expected to continue to move back into their dorms throughout the upcoming week.

“Our goals are to put measures in place to have an uninterrupted semester, and the resilience of our community, and our shared mission, will help us get through this together,” the email read. “We realize that an interruption to our shared mission of in-person teaching and learning may cause additional stress and anxiety to what is already a difficult time. However, we believe that the amount of cases on our campus and around us will decrease to a point where a significant majority of our students and faculty will be able to participate in person.”

The email asserts that more updates are to come from the OneManhattan team.

For any further questions contact OneManhattan at jaspersreturn@manhattan.edu.

News

JANUARY 25, 2022

5

Graham Walker, Beloved MC Professor, Dies at 66 Kyla Guilfoil & Kelly Kennedy Editor-in-Chief & Social Media Editor

Graham Walker, Ph.D, professor of mechanical engineering, avid researcher, supportive advisor for Manhattan College students, and the 2006 Distinguished Lasallian Educator of the Year, died suddenly and unexpectedly on Monday, Jan. 17. He was 66.

Walker was born on Dec. 31, 1955 in Ellon, Scotland to Christina Reid and James Adam Walker. After receiving his bachelor of science in mechanical engineering at Strathclyde University in Scotland, Walker went on to earn his doctorate in aerospace engineering at Southampton University in England.

Walker lived with his wife, Agnes Murray, in New York City, where they raised three sons. Walker worked as a research engineer in the Courant Institute of New York University before beginning his teaching career at Clarkson University in Potsdam, New York in 1986.

In 1993, Walker and his family returned to New York City, where he began his Manhattan College career as a professor of mechanical engineering. In addition to his work at MC, Walker had also taught adjunct mechanical engineering courses in the graduate school of Columbia University since the mid-2000s.

Walker was dedicated to his work at Manhattan where he conducted research on orthodontics and biomechanics, taught full course loads and served as an advisor to many MC mechanical engineers.

“On behalf of the entire School of Engineering community, I express our great loss felt on the death of our colleague, Professor Graham Walker.”

Tim Ward, Ph.D., dean of engineering, told The Quadrangle. “Dr. Walker was a teacher, scholar, mentor, and true Lasallian in his commitment to the students and the college. His legacy will continue to guide us in fulfilling the missions of the college.”

Walker’s colleagues praised his dedication and spirit in the wake of his passing.

John Leylegian, Ph.D, chairman of the mechanical engineering department, said Walker was a critical part of his experience at MC. “There’s always a kind of running joke around here that he was the go-to guy,” Leylegian said. “He was always the one that knew where the stuff

was. He knew he always knew what was going on, and he always knew how to find things.

So he was unofficially responsible for getting a lot of people started.”

According to Leylegian, Walker first researched aerospace engineering, and worked for the Ministry of Defense in the UK. His work produced cutting edge research in this field, as he worked with blast waves and compressible flow-type work. Later, Walker shifted his focus towards manufacturing, system engineering and biomechanics.

Leylegian said that Walker had worked with Montefiore to develop dental implants by working with the manufacturing of these implants, as well as developed joint braces through projects at MC. Parisa Saboori, Ph.D, associate professor of mechanical engineering, worked closely with Walker. The two advised MC mechanical engineering students and worked with them on senior design projects.

“I met him when I was a teaching assistant at the City College of New York,” Saboori said. “Since then, he has become a colleague, mentor, best friend, and really a family member.”

Saboori said that Walker had a passion for everything, and was the go-to person for everything, work related or not.

According to Saboori, Walker’s presence was so great at the college that even professors that have come to MC within the last year have felt this sudden loss deeply.

Saboori has felt this loss acutely, having worked closely with Walker on research in biomechanics. She told The Quadrangle that their collaboration began after they saw a Jaspers Research Scholar presentation for the kinesiology department, and they felt that they could provide a manufactured model for the researcher’s work discussing traumatic head injuries.

Since then, the two have worked with departments across the college from kinesiology to business.

“This was all his idea, to bring more people and to make the project more understandable for everyone,” Saboori said. “His mission was to be able to simply explain your research so that anyone could relate to it and he was great at that. And because of that he would just get more people involved in the project.”

Saboori and Walker have also published two research articles on the brain impact characteristics and deforma-

tions caused by traumatic brain injuries. . They also began another project on cystic fibrosis, which Saboori said testified to Walker’s dedication to helping children, toddlers and infants.

“We had students working on this research and just because of his guidance, and just because of the way that he would see that stuff, he would just tell the students that they have to go for more,” Saboori said. “He encourages students to go for the Innovation Challenge and to no surprise we were the winners the last two years.”

Saboori explained that Walker was not just passionate about these projects as engineering challenges, but also because he felt strongly about trying to make the world a better place for others.

Both Saboori and Leylegian emphasize that filling the void left by Walker’s death will not be easy for the department.

“Dr. Walker was a towering figure (in many ways) on our faculty--someone who excelled in all areas of faculty work (teaching, research, and service) and who brought great joy and kindness to everything he did,” Manhattan College President Brennan O’Donnell, Ph.D. wrote in an email to The Quadrangle.

“He had tremendously broad interests and exuded an infectious enthusiasm for learning and teaching. I’ve seen many people refer to him on social media as a ‘renaissance man,’ which is perfect: he was both deeply learned and skilled in his academic discipline and broadly well-read. He cared deeply for his students. We will miss his wisdom, his love of knowledge, and his extraordinary talent as a teacher and scholar. We will sorely miss his kindness, sense of humor, and loving presence to his students and colleagues.”

O’Donnell sent an email to the entire MC community the night of Walker’s passing, highlightingWalker’s contributions: his role as faculty advisor for the mini Baja club; his travels to Honduras in two service trips with the Office of Campus Ministry and Social Action; and his early advocacy for an environmentally friendly curriculum within the mechanical engineering department.

In this email, O’Donnell also highlighted Walker’s recognition as Distinguished Lasallian Educator of the Year in 2006. Walker’s citation for the award noted, “(Walker) always has time for students, helping them with his and other professors’ assignments, counseling them, and providing an envi-

Graham Walker was loved and respected by the Manhattan College community.

MANHATTAN.EDU/ COURTESY ronment that is welcoming to students of all abilities; he never turns a student away. Even if he is not teaching them in class, he is always there for all students.”

“Graham’s cutting-edge research, passion for teaching and vocal support of the student experience made us all better educators and better people,” O’Donnell wrote in the email announcing Walker’s death. “His wonderful sense of humor brightened our lives. He leaves the Manhattan community with an unmatched legacy as a teacher, researcher, colleague, mentor, and friend. We will miss him deeply.”

Pashka Durgaj, a freshman mechanical engineering major a course with Professor Walker during her first semester at MC. She remembers him as one of her main inspirations for wanting to pursue mechanical engineering.

“When I started my first semester I didn’t think I was going to stick with [mechanical engineering]” Durgaj said” “His class was the second class I ever attended, and just in the hour and fifteen minutes I was there, he was able to completely change my perspective because he’s a mechanical engineer, and the way that he talked about it, I left the classroom thinking, ‘I’m going to stay here and this is what I want to do.’”

Walker was known to his students for his humorous and friendly nature. In a daunting field like engineering, he was approachable and made students feel welcome.

“He was very enthusiastic in the way that he talked about

engineering,” Durgaj said. “He made it all seem very simple.

When people think about engineering they put it on a pedestal and it can be really intimidating. But he just talked about it all really casually and he would often make jokes in class. Dr. Walker just made me feel comfortable.”

Michael Ferrera, a junior mechanical engineering major, agreed.

“He was a great professor, very inspiring and smart,” Ferrera said. “He was funny, just a blast to be around, and made lectures go pretty smoothly in a way that was easy to understand. But he really knew how to have fun during class and he would tell jokes constantly.”

Comments on the MC’s Facebook post read, “Such a devastating shock. His sense of humor, energy, dedication to our community, and character will be so deeply missed by all of us who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. Sending my love and condolences to his family and loved ones.” Additionally, “So sad to hear this news tonight.

Dr. Walker was a legend and brought so many smiles to his students. He was a brilliant, phenomenal educator and truly cared. His positive and meaningful impact left on his students will be cherished forever.”

Walker’s funeral service was held Saturday, Jan. 22 in Yonkers. Walker is survived by his wife Agnes, his three sons John, Martin and Christopher, and his granddaughter Aoife.

Condolences can be sent to Walker’s wife, Agnes Murray, at 269 W. 259th St, Bronx NY.

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THE QUADRANGLE

Supporting Bronx Fire Victims: MC Embraces Lasallian Values and Gives Back Amid Tragedy Christine Nappi Staff Writer

The fire that erupted in a Bronx apartment building on Jan. 9 in the Fordham Heights injured and took the lives of many — leaving those who survived with no belongings or place to call home. This tragedy, while spurring feelings of heartbreak, loss and grief, also enacted feelings of empathy amongst others, including those in the Manhattan College and greater Bronx communities.

Numerous organizations and individuals on campus and in the local area have coordinated initiatives to support the Bronx fire victims. These initiatives include donating supplies like food and water, clothing, money and more, in the hopes of helping those impacted by the fire.

Jacquie Martin, coordinator of Campus Ministry and Social Action, finds that supporting those in need and giving back to the community is a pillar of the college’s Lasallian mission.

She emphasizes that in a moment like this, it is crucial that the college give back to the Bronx community at large, and is happy to see many organizations doing so.

“I think the fact that people want to move to action really speaks volumes about the Lasallian mission coming out in each of us, and I think its great,” Martin said. “I think it’s so great when [everyone] take[s] that mission, because it’s really all of our missions.

Take that and run with it and we’re all able to help contribute in different ways, from different people that we might be connected with, or different organizations we might be connected with. So it’s nice to see everyone kind of like come out and be supportive.”

CMSA itself coordinates numerous services projects and programs throughout the year, including its Service on Saturdays program, the Lasallian Outreach Collaborative program and the community engaged federal work study program. For the Bronx fire cause specifically, they encouraged those in the MC community to donate to The Mayor’s Fund, the SAR-Bronx Fire Fund and a GoFundMe page created by Bronx community members.

CMSA also works with two community partners, Part of

the Solution, better known as POTS, and the Bronx Chamber of Commerce who are looking for volunteers and donations toward this cause specifically.

The office also encouraged the college community to drop off supplies at the Riverdale Jewish Community Center, one of the many organizations in the local neighborhood to be supporting this cause.

Oren Hiller, Executive Director of the Riverdale Jewish Center, notes that the center collected hundreds of bags of clothing and supplies, and raised nearly $10,000 for those affected by the fire. He finds that acts of service like this are a prominent part of the Riverdale Jewish Center’s community.

“Our membership at the Riverdale Jewish Center thinks constantly about its role in the greater Bronx community [and] we build active and vibrant relationships with local elected officials,” Hiller wrote in an email to The Quad. “When news broke of the devastating fire just a few miles from our community, our members were eager to act, and our leadership was quick to partner with our senators and congresspeople to find out how best we could serve.”

Hiller particularly notes that this tragedy will leave longterm impacts, however, donating items they lost in the fire can be a way to mitigate any future challenges.

“So many families will face long-term challenges,” Hiller wrote. “Raising funds and helping by replacing some of the items that families have lost has been identified as the best way we can help.”

In addition to the Riverdale Jewish Center, a few on-campus organizations are giving back to this cause.

The Manhattan College Athletics Department is one organization that has supported this cause, by collecting all of their ticket sales at the men’s basketball game against Canisius on Jan. 16. Some fans made additional personal donations, and all of the funds were donated to the Bronx Fire Relief Fund set up by Mayor Eric Adams’ office.

Whitney Swab, the Senior Associate Athletic Director for External Operations, oversaw this donation on behalf of the department. Swab describes that this donation allowed Athletics to give back to the community and those in need.

“It was a really great way for us to support the community and show the community that we care,” Swab said. “I think it really ties into our Lasallian values that we have at Manhattan College that we’re going to take care of those folks who are a little bit less fortunate than us and not think about the revenue that we would have made off of the game, but instead give it to a really worthy cause.”

Swab says that contributing to this cause will help the victims understand that there is a larger community around them that will be there to support them in challenging times.

She emphasizes that Manhattan College is part of the Bronx community as a whole, and just like Jaspers support Jaspers, they also need to support the Bronx community.

Swab notes that the college is in a position to enact change within the community, and that this donation is one example of how the college can help others in a significant way.

“I think it’s really important for us to remember that we are part of the fabric of the Bronx Community and that there are folks around us who are less fortunate than us, and especially when there’s a loss like this where folks lose everything in what seems like a moment, that we have to remember that we have a lot of blessing, but we’re also able to use our platform as a way for us to have change and to support a social cause,” Swab said.

Swab describes that the athletics department has always been committed to acts of service, and that she is proud to belong to a community that is dedicated to helping others.

She encourages others to support this cause, and notes that there are many ways to help other than through monetary donations, such as volunteering, collecting items or doing something as simple as letting others know you care.

Another organization on campus that has supported the Bronx community in the wake of the fire is MC TurnStyle.

TurnStyle is an on-campus thrift store located in Thomas Hall that began last semester as a way for students to sustainably swap and shop clothes.

The store was started with the idea that leftover items, after having gone through the thrifting cycle, will be donated to local, underprivileged communities.

Emma Piazza, TurnStyle’s

Scan the QR Codes for ways to help the Bronx fire victims

CHRISTINE NAPPI / THE QUADRANGLE Executive Director of Outreach, says the store is collecting clothing items and donating clothes leftover from last semester. TurnStyle will continue collecting clothes throughout this week and will donate them to the Gambian Youth Center on 214 E 181st Street in the Bronx.

Although TurnStyle is mainly donating clothes, they are urging others to do any-

thing they can to help this cause, whether it be donating food, water, or other supplies.

However, Piazza finds that donating clothes specifically during this time is crucial in helping the victims survive the winter season.

“People’s lives have just been completely uprooted by what happened,” Piazza said.

“When a fire affects you and your home, everything kind of

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Supporting Bronx Fire Victims: MC Embraces Lasallian Values and Gives Back Amid Tragedy

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goes with it and so I think for a lot of people, their wardrobe is now gone, and they don’t have anything to really dress themselves, especially in

the winter months, when you kind of need to be well dressed so you’re not freezing.”

According to Piazza, TurnStyle had a great turnout when the store opened last semester, with students donating clothes left and right. Donating this cause is just the start of Turn-

Style’s community outreach initiatives, as Piazza days they plan to support more causes like this.

TurnStyle, along with the many other organizations who are supporting this cause, encourage others in the Manhattan College community to give

back and contribute to the LaSallian mission. “[Giving back to the community] aligns with the LaSallian values of being at this school, and I think just more now than ever we need to unite as a community of people and help each other and treat oth-

ers the way that we want to be treated,” Piazza said. “And so I think anyway that you can do that from volunteering to donating to directly giving back, we as Manhattan College students should be taking advantage of, and I think that’s taught here at this school.”

Handshakes Master Class Gives Advice to MC Students Zoe DeFazio

Asst. Arts and Entertainment Editor Handshake, a career tool that Manhattan College utilizes for its students, held a virtual master class and Q&A event with Nathalie Gerschtein, the president of the consumer products division of L’Oréal on Jan. 20.

Handshake is an online business platform that gives students the opportunity to engage in live events and look for internship and job opportunities. Handshake offers a wide range of possibilities for both MC students and alumni.

Sharon D’Amelia, Associate Director of the Center for Career Development, weighed in on how students should familiarize themselves with Handshake to better understand the different job industries.

“All students of all majors should attend employer events whether they are in person or virtual. Employers that visit the campus want to meet with motivated students. By attending an employer event, you have the opportunity to meet with a recruiter who may potentially hire you. These events are a great way for students to learn about the company and the opportunities offered,” D’Amelia wrote in an email to The Quadrangle.

Dayna McGinley, President of the Women in Business club and Director of Member Relations of MC’s chapter of Beta Alpha Psi, explained why events such as the L’Oréal are important for students to take part in.

“Every MC student should take advantage of Handshake and what it has to offer both virtually and when things are in person. I personally have

Nathalie Gerschtein hosted a master class for Manhattan College students.

FASHION NETWORK / COURTESY attended career development events, career fairs and job interviews,” said McGinley.

McGinley went on to talk about her personal experience with Handshake and the many opportunities that have come her way, increasing her experience in the real world.

“Since Handshake is mainly alumni or employers who want to hire MC students, the chance of gaining that internship or job is a lot higher than a search engine site. Not only have I gained my Big Four internship through Handshake, but I was able to network with people who worked at my dream companies much easier than on LinkedIn,” McGinley noted.

Gerschtein’s masterclass fo-

cused on her journey through the business world. Gerschtein is the first woman president of the consumer products division for L’Oréal, and is running a vast team of diverse and talented employees who are very passionate about embodying L’Oréal’s global purpose to create the beauty that moves the world.

This event contained information about becoming immersed in the business world and tactics to elevate your status and become more indulged in your work to hopefully expand your brand and business.

Gerschtein discussed what it takes to be a part of an empire and taught the class how to create an entrepreneur mindset and elaborated her six core

values on being in the world of business. Her core values were innovation, spirit, a quest for excellence, responsibility, open-mindedness and passion.

Passion was Gerschtein’s main core value. She explained that without passion, the business isn’t worth fighting for.

Being passionate and driven towards your work and ensuring precision with trial and error helps create the entrepreneur mindset.

“You have to try something one hundred times before it works. But then we don’t call it failure. We call it learning. And you know, this culture has really inspired me every day,” Gerschtein said.

Gerschtein ended her masterclass with some key advice

to people wanting to expand on the business world.

“An important thing is the entrepreneur mindset,” Gerschtein said. “As a French person, L’Oreal has always been extremely inspiring. You know, when I entered L’Oreal 20 years ago, they didn’t have such a big international business, it was just one of the top companies in France. It’s the belief that you’re going to have the ability to impact. It’s really by working together that we can learn the most, and we move forward.

So I think this entrepreneurship mindset, the fact that we encourage learning. It’s really something that has been the most critical for me throughout my journey.”

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THE QUADRANGLE

Online Start to the Semester VOICES ON THE QUAD Maria Thomas Senior Writer

Chelsea Fedigan ‘23 How do you feel about the first week of classes being online?

Anthony Mastrogiacomo ‘23 How do you feel about the first week of classes being online?

I feel that online classes for the first week is a great idea because it allows for people to settle in, and if they have tested positive within a few days of the year starting, they will not be missing class. On the other hand, having the first week online doesn’t allow us to meet other people in our classes before the course material starts and it also doesn’t give the teacher the opportunity to fully meet us.

How has online learning affected your day-today life as a student, perhaps with roommates, siblings, pets, parents, etc?

Online learning has affected my everyday life for the better because it allows me to be more involved with my family. It has also had a positive effect with my roommates because we get to see more of each other.

Do you prefer online classes or in-person classes? Online club meetings or in-person?

I originally preferred online classes freshman year when they first began, and also fall semester sophomore year, because I was able to basically take my classes anywhere which allowed me to be more flexible. Now, after having a full semester in person, I realize that I am able to pay more attention, and I am also retaining a lot more information. So with that I would definitely prefer in-person classes.

Did the decision for online learning affect when you returned to campus or to off-campus housing?

The decision for online learning did affect when I came back to campus, but only by two days since I don’t live very far.

I think that it makes me hopeful that the rest of the semester as of right now is in person. So going through the first week of classes remotely doesn’t bother me that much. If anything, it makes me more excited to go back in person, and I can appreciate it now more. I think that my teachers have been adapting to it really well, and they’re making the most of it, and I think that the conversation is still there. So I think that for just being the first week of classes, it doesn’t really bother me.

How has online learning affected your day-today life as a student, perhaps with roommates, siblings, pets, parents, etc?

I currently live on campus. So I guess the most challenging thing about taking online classes in the dorm is just trying to coordinate like with my roommates, and trying to have my own personal space, or you know, you have to use headphones so they aren’t bothering anyone, whereas I was fully online last year, so that wasn’t a problem.

Do you prefer online classes or in-person classes? Online club meetings or in-person?

I think in a perfect world, I would love to do something that involves a hybrid classroom because I think that is very ideal for me, but I think in-person if I had to choose my preference because you definitely get to interact with people on a different level in-person.

I mean, I can still have a conversation in online classes, but there’s just something about being face-to-face with people — especially people that you’re meeting for the first time — that you can’t really get over Zoom.

Did the decision for online learning affect when you returned to campus or to off-campus housing?

I definitely considered coming back to campus when classes were in-person, but I just took it as an opportunity to come back to campus when not all the students were here so I could enjoy the library or Kelly when it was more quiet. So I definitely considered coming back late, but ultimately, especially because the dorms were open, I wanted to take advantage of that.

Isabelle Tomas ‘23 How do you feel about the first week of classes being online?

When I first heard the first week of classes were going to be online, honestly, I was relieved. I found myself feeling more nervous than usual for this semester and being able to attend classes online allowed me to feel more comfortable How has online learning affected your day to day life as a student, perhaps with roommates, siblings, pets, parents, etc?

Online learning honestly made my life easier. Besides being a college student, I work. So, having my classes online allowed me to create better hours for work. Along with this, when classes are in person, I need to commute to school as I don’t dorm. More often than not though, I don’t have a car accessible to me and have to take the bus. This makes it exceedingly more difficult for me as buses aren’t consistent. The one downside about online learning for me though, is that I live at home with my parents, brother and both grandparents so it’s not easy finding quiet spaces to study and do homework in. With that being said, I’m very privileged to have access to a computer and WiFi. Do you prefer online classes or in-person classes? Online club meetings or in-person?

I prefer online classes because of basic comfort, but I found that I absorb information better when my classes are in-person. I’m someone who needs to be in an educational environment in order to actually learn.

I’m usually less focused when I take classes at home, so being in-person forces me to check myself.

Did the decision for online learning affect when you returned to campus or to off-campus housing?

Again, I’m very privileged, so the decision for online learning didn’t affect me greatly when returning to off-campus housing as I commute already. I always have some form of transportation accessible to me when classes return to being in person, and because I’ve been home this whole time (over the break) already, having my classes in person didn’t change much in my life at home.

JANUARY 25,2022

Arts & Entertainment

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Jasper Jams: Kick-Start Your Spring Semester JASPER JAMS

Zach DiRenzo Contributor

The beginning of a new semester can be intimidating, and it can take a few weeks to get into the swing of things.

So, here’s a playlist filled with some of my favorite upbeat songs to get you excited and inspired!

If you enjoy any of the following artists, consider sharing their music with friends, purchasing their merch or going to see them in concert.

Music is always there for us, so let’s support those who create it.

TELL THE TRUTH - Jon Batiste If you aren’t already familiar with Jon Batiste, you’re missing out. Some of the highlights from his prolific career thus far include releasing over ten solo albums, serving as bandleader for “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert”, and composing jazz selections for the soundtrack to Pixar’s “Soul”. He is also this year’s most Grammy-nominated artist and is in the running for 11

categories, including album of the year for “WE ARE”. “TELL THE TRUTH” is a roaring song that showcases the musical power of Batiste and his band to the fullest extent. Last December, I was fortunate enough to see Batiste at The Bowery Ballroom, where he concluded the show by leading his entire band and the crowd out the doors of the venue, onto the sidewalk and around the block in musical procession, all on a Tuesday night. I love New York.

Hypotheticals Street Dive

-

Lake

In my opinion, Lake Street Dive’s “Hypotheticals” is one of the catchiest songs ever written. It’s also the perfect song to kick off their most recent album, “Obviously”, which has been in my listening rotation for almost a year now. Their playing has never been tighter, and they are truly firing on all cylinders, both in the studio and on stage. Seeing them live last June at Westville Music Bowl in New Haven, Connecticut, was my first concert in over a year at the time. It was such an unforgettable experience.

Love Comes And Goes - Lee Fields & The Expressions

Make It Better - Anderson .Paak (feat. Smokey Robinson)

“Love Comes And Goes,” the second track from Lee Fields’ stellar 2009 record, “My World”, has such a contagious groove. The chorus is infectious. It’s one of those songs you can listen to over and over again and still want to hear more of. Don’t sleep on Fields’ backing band, either. The keys, horns, guitar, drums and more are synchronized perfectly with one another, and you’re sure to become a fan by the opening chords of the album’s third song, “Honey Dove.”

Anderson .Paak is one of the most talented artists making music today. Period. I enjoy the classic feel on the song “Make It Better” off his 2019 record, “Ventura”. Also, how can you not love a Smokey Robinson feature?

Can’t Fight - Lianne La Havas Last year, a friend sent me Lianne La Havas’ song “Bittersweet,” and I became an instant fan. Her self-titled 2020 release is such a phenomenal all-around record. It’s fourth track, “Can’t Fight,” starts with melodic guitar strumming that immediately captures the listener. “Paper Thin” and “Please Don’t Make Me Cry” are some of my other favorites from this album.

from the ‘70s; nevertheless, its instrumental palette is timeless. Paying homage to artists like Allen Toussaint and Dr. John and backed with the sweet sound of New Orleans-style horns, Francis tells his inspiring story of introspection and redemption in 8 compelling tracks. “These Are the Days” is an immaculate song, and best encapsulates the spirit of the record.

Histor y Repeats - Brittany Howard

Don’t Lose Sight - Lawrence

One of the best live performances I’ve seen this past year was Brittany Howard opening for My Morning Jacket at the legendary Forest Hills Stadium in Queens. The funky and timely “History Repeats” capped off her 13-song opening set, which featured tracks from her eclectic 2019 solo debut, “Jaime”, two commanding Funkadelic covers and a thunderous take on Nina Simone’s “Revolution.”

Siblings Clyde and Gracie Lawrence lead the soul-pop powerhouse that is Lawrence.

Their most recent album, “Hotel TV”, released in 2021, manifests such a rich variety of styles, yet also brings them together in a cohesive way through its 12-song musical narrative. “Don’t Lose Sight,” the first track on the album, is an anthem about staying strong no matter what the world throws at you. I highly recommend seeing Lawrence live if you have the chance; their soldout homecoming show at Terminal 5 last December was one for the ages.

These Are The Days Neal Francis Clocking in at 36 perfect minutes, Neal Francis’ 2019 debut album, “Changes”, sounds like a classic record unearthed

Scan here to listen to The Quadrangle’s playlist!

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THE QUADRANGLE

Music Ministry Brings the Melody to Mass Megan LaCreta

Arts & Entertainment Editor If you’ve ever heard the ethereal sounds of an ensemble performance drifting through campus on a Sunday night, you’re likely acquainted with the Manhattan College Music Ministry.

Music Ministry is a contemporary ensemble of vocalists and instrumentalists. The group meets once a week to prepare for the 7:30 p.m Sunday mass, where they perform.

Historically, music has always been an integral aspect of Catholic liturgy. Andrew Bauer, director of performing arts and Music Ministry faculty advisor, explained that music is meant not only to praise God, but to create a deeper connection with the readings of the day.

Despite the long history of music in the church, Bauer noted that Music Ministry isn’t afraid to stray from the classics.

“We tend to gravitate to-

wards a music repertoire that is more contemporary, not like your typical durgy sort of church music stuff,” said Bauer. “We try to put a sort of modern spin on everything and even if we do an older song, we try to do it in a sort of contemporary, exciting way. We try to liven up the mass and make people feel really good about coming to church and hearing some really good music.”

While the group is focused around its performances at mass, students don’t have to be religious to join, according to Luis Chaves, a junior sound studies major with minors in theater and music, who serves as the Music Ministry’s president.

“You could just join [Music Ministry] for the fun of wanting to get better at your instrument or wanting to sing more, or for the community that we have,” said Chavez.

There are certainly plenty of opportunities for fun in Music Ministry. Chavez noted

that students have performed everything from Elton John to songs from the musical “Godspell” at mass.

“It’s a nice little get together after a long week, to just hang out and play music together,” said Chavez.

The sense of community is a defining characteristic of Music Ministry to the group’s vice president and senior childhood education major Alexa Hennessey.

“The people in Music Ministry are such a wonderful, kind and welcoming set of people that I myself have had the pleasure to meet and know,” said Hennessey. “And so I would say, if someone wants to get involved, that you’re not only going to be getting involved in a club, you’re definitely going to make friendships. These people are going to make you feel comfortable and accept you for who you are, and you’re going to have fun.”

Bauer also emphasized the supportive attitude of the

Music Ministry is a contemporary ensemble of vocalists and instrumentalists. Check out Sunday mass at 7:30pm to catch a performance

MANHATTAN.EDU / COURTESY group.

“If somebody has a solo or something like that, everybody’s going to get behind them in the spirit of camaraderie and sort of cheer them on. Seeing people being really happy about what they do is the best part of the experience for

me,” said Bauer.

Students interested in joining Music Ministry should reach out to Bauer or the student leaders, and of course, be sure to check out the 7:30pm Sunday mass to catch a performance.

Sanctus Artem to Continue its Post-Lockdown Comeback

Jilleen Barrett

Features Editor/ Managing Editor Sanctus Artem, Manhattan College’s art collaborative, is continuing its comeback after it was brought back to campus life during the fall 2020 semester. President and vice president Sabrina Beharry and Craig Chambers are largely responsible for the club’s return.

According to Chambers, the club had stopped meeting during the first few months of the pandemic because many of its members had graduated with the class of 2020. Beharry explained her motivation for reviving it.

“I missed having our club on campus,” Beharry said.

“So I texted the last president, [Ryan Askin] … I met up with him at An Beal and then we just decided to start the club again.”

Chambers spoke about the range of events the club offers.

“Most of our events so far are coloring events where we mess around with different art styles,” Chambers said.

“The Bob Ross paintings are my favorites … We’re looking forward to doing pastels and playdough in the future, we did

crayons, markers, just kinds of mediums.”

Beharry also hopes to see a painting and sip event happen before midterms to help students relax.

Marina Morean, a business management major who is studying abroad at Manhattan from Spain, went to many of the events held by the club last semester. She said her favorite events involved painting, noting the Bob Ross event in particular.

“I like to do art classes …

[Sanctus Artem does] a variety of things, for example, one day was splatter painting, another day was perspective [drawing] where they put objects on a table and we went around and everyone drew the same object,” Morean said. “No event is the same … and it’s nice because you can try new things.”

That’s exactly what Chambers says he wants to achieve through the club — introducing people to art and showing them how to be more comfortable with it.

“My main focus is creating a comfortable space where people can hang out, it’s not even so much about your skill or your expertise in art,” Chambers said. “It’s more so just

about having a common interest with the people around you and having a place where you can socialize and do something fun and creative.”

“It’s more about creating an inclusive environment where anyone feels comfortable to join,” Beharry added.

Sanctus Artem will be adding something entirely new to their lineup of events. In addi-

tion to their weekly meetings and events, they plan to escort a group down to the Whitney Museum in Chelsea later this semester.

“We’re planning a trip to the Whitney in Chelsea, and we’re going to go on a day that it’s free because I know college students can’t afford that 25 dollar museum ticket,” Beharry said. “So we’re going to

go down as a group when the weather gets warmer in the spring.”

Students who are interested in joining Sanctus Artem can find out more information by looking at their Instagram account, @sanctusartem, or attending one of their meetings in De La Salle Hall on Tuesdays at 4:30.

Meetings for Sanctus Artem are held on Tuesdays at 4:30.

MANHATTAN.EDU / COURTESY

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JANUARY 25, 2022

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Perez Named MAAC and MET Player of the Week Isaiah Rosario Asst. Sports Editor Manhattan College basketball player Jose Perez earned MAAC and Met Player of the Week for his performance against Iona and his stat-breaking performance against Canisius.

Perez averaged 30 points, four assists, two rebounds and a steal per game in those 2 performances. In the Jaspers’ 80-75 win against Canisius last Sunday, Perez scored a season-high 33 points, the second-most by a MAAC player this season.

Although it is a massive accomplishment to earn MAAC and NCAA MET Player of the Week, Perez has his eyes on the bigger picture.

“Honestly, it doesn’t mean anything to me. I just want to win,” Perez said. “I’ve seen the awards came out like the Lou Henson award and stuff like that, and I wasn’t up there. But I know what I’m capable of and I know that I’m one of the top players in the country just not playing-wise but IQ-wise and knowing what it takes to win.”

The Lou Henson Award is the National Player of the Year Award for men’s Division I basketball players. The Lou Henson Mid-Season Watch list consists of multiple positions from both the frontcourt and the backcourt. Currently, there is not a single conference in Division I that is dominating the list. But, one of the MAAC’s own is currently on the list, forward Nelly Junior Joseph from Iona.

Manhattan guard Elijah Buchanan is a long-term competitor of Perez. The Bronx natives met in junior high but have been playing against one another since they were young. Now both Perez and Buchanan are now helping the Jaspers fight their way up the MAAC rankings and hope for a lengthy run in the MAAC tournament.

“He [Perez] is a great leader. He pushes you to the limit, he pushes you to the best version of yourself,” Buchanan said.

Perez leads the Jaspers both in his scoring average of 16.5 points per game and assists average of 5.1 assists per game.

“Yeah, [Perez’s passing] is very critical, because it gets us

our open shots, so it’s easier for the rest of us to score and that’s why we are second in the MAAC in scoring,” Buchanan said.

Coach Steve Masiello told The Quadrangle the struggle other teams have preparing to defend such a smart and versatile player.

“I think it’s a tough prep,” Masiello said. “He is a wellversed player and all around but I think what makes him really good is his IQ and his intelligence from a basketball standpoint, but he’s a tough match.

He’s a hard guy to prepare for.”

Perez played his freshman and sophomore season at Gardner-Webb University. His freshman year he made the NCAA tournament, was a co-runner for freshman of the year and made the all-freshman team.

Perez transferred to Marquette University for his junior year, but when head coach Steve Wojciechowski was fired he decided to come home to the Bronx and play with the Jaspers under the direction of Masiello.

“He’s probably the best coach I’ve ever been around,” Perez said. “I’ve been around some really good coaches. But he’s a player’s coach. And he

Jose Perez assessing the floor vs. Canisius.

GOJASPERS / COURTESY

actually cares a lot. Like into winning and stuff, and we’re the same person. So we’re sore losers, we don’t like losing.”

Masiello told The Quadrangle that Perez adds to the team both on the court and off. “[Perez] is a very loving, caring person,” Masiello said.

“He is very misunderstood, he has a very hard exterior and

he’s very passionate.”

Masiello added that Perez’s family values extend this character.

“He’s really actually a mama’s boy. He’s very committed to his family and his loved ones and he’s a really good human being that is growing and trying to get better in a lot of ways.”

MC Soccer Alum Founds Non-Profit: The Beestera Foundation Lauren Raziano Web Editor/Asst. Sports Editor

Jasper soccer alum Josh Binfield ’16, recently created his own nonprofit organization, the Beestera Foundation, focused on serving youth athletes in underserved communities.

Binfield has been teaching and coaching in underserved communities for the past eight years and recognized the gap of funding and accessibility in sports.

“The pay-to-play model in the US has contributed to a lack of opportunities for kids living in low-income communities.”

Binfield wrote in an email to the Quadrangle. “Barriers such as lack of quality coaching, inadequate access to facilities and little to no equipment for programs. I felt the need to bridge the gap of the haves and the have nots.”

The Beestera Foundation has a goal to provide services through volunteers and other resources.

“Through volunteerism and professional development, I believe the Beestera Foundation can fulfill our mission to provide coaching, facilities, and equipment in underserved communities,” Binfield wrote.

Binfield acknowledges that his Manhattan College professors fostered confidence to help him create his non-profit.

“My professors at Manhattan College, mostly in the physical education department, gave me the tools to succeed in my teaching and coaching career,” Binfield wrote. “More importantly, my professors gave me the confidence to always go above and beyond in my profession. I love being a teacher and a coach, and now I want to be a leader for change in the community I work in.”

Jorden Scott, the head coach of Jasper men’s soccer, always recognized Binfield’s organized leadership qualities on and off the field.

“He was a phenomenal kid and he was very analytical in his approach to the game, with a very elite level of knowledge of how the game works tactically. I could see there was a passion in him for teaching and coaching.” Scott said.

Scott acknowledged that Binfield has been able to overcome the impact of COVID-19 to create an inspirational athletic program.

“I think the effects of the last two and a half years and even during those tough times for families, we have become very intrinsic.” Scott said. “We want to take care of ourselves, our mental health or physical health. And during that time, Josh has managed to look beyond that.”

The Jasper Men’s Soccer program encourages its athletes to keep in mind the bigger

picture of life.

“We prepare our kids in my program and in men’s soccer that there is a bigger picture in life. You know, there is a bigger goal in mind and not just winning games, and I think I’ve always believed that,” Scott said.

When Binfield was looking to develop a sports foundation, Scott offered advice about looking into developing a program for athletics for underserved communities.

“I gave him some advice with his course and suggested to him to look at the participation of soccer in inner cities, specifically with the female population,” Scott said.

This past June the Beestera Foundation, in partnership with Albany Youth Soccer and Albany Soccer Club, provided a team of volunteer coaches for the “Super Girls Clinic.” ​ “The June 19 clinic brought together nearly 40 elementary school girls for an hour of skills training and interactive empowerment activities,” the Beestera Foundation shared on their website. “The Beestera Foundation is excited to kickstart their philanthropic efforts in the Capital Region and plans to expand the Super Girls Clinic in the future.”

In January the Beestera Foundation launched a program called “Just Play,” running in the City School District of Albany for students in third through fifth grade, with the

the Beestera Foundation, focused on serv ing youth athletes in underserved communities.

BEEsTERA FOUNDATION / COURTESY

hopes of expanding the program to include two more Just Play programs soon.

“The Just Play program is a new initiative which invites anyone who wants to play and learn the game of soccer. The Beestera Foundation provides the equipment, trains the volunteer coaches, and will pay and advocate for the facility rental.” Binfield wrote.

Through the “Super Girls Clinic” event and the “Just Play” program the Beestera Foundation strives to achieve its mission and goal.

“I want the Beestera Foundation to stay true to its mission and vision. We want to provide opportunities for soccer in as many underserved communities as we can, all the while providing professional development to our volunteer coaches.” Binfield wrote.

If any students know a community or soccer organization that could use the help of the Beestera Foundation, please reach out to the Director of the Beestera Foundation, Josh Binfield, at josh@thebeesterafoundation.com.

Sports

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THE QUADRANGLE

Jaspers Track & Field Wins Big at the MLK Tribute Invitational Lauren Raziano

Web Editor/Asst. Sports Editor The Manhattan College Track & Field team had great success at the MLK Tribute Invitational this weekend, with a record six wins for the men’s team and two athletes named MAAC Field Athletes of the Week.

At the MLK Tribute Invitational, hosted by St. John’s University at the Ocean Breeze Complex, the men’s track and field team posted five overall individual wins and a relay win. For the women, Alexandra Preckajlo won first place in the shot-put competition, with a mark of 14.34m.

Harrison Alonzo, a sophomore sprinter, won the 300m in 35.95. Alonzo was two-tenths in front of teammate Brain Saul in the 300m to make it a 1-2 of Manhattan freshmen.

Robert Decker, a sophomore thrower, finished first in the weight throw (17.30m).

Decker’s win was by more than three meters and he led a 1-2-3 finish of Jaspers.

The Jaspers team of Brian Odour, Kaya Simpson, Brian Saul, and Harrison Alonzo won the 4x400 relay in a time of 3:29.11. The quartet was over nine seconds clear of the second team.

Additionally, Jackson Heft, a sophomore jumper, took the top spot in the pole vault with a mark of 3.55m.

Marc Carrera, a senior track and field athlete, crossed the line in first in 1:55.79 to win the 800m.

“It was just good to get the win and we swept a couple events,” Carrera said. “ It’s not really about running the fastest or jumping to the highest, it’s about winning as we prepare for the MAAC Championship in a month.”

Carrera is looking forward to this season and the new team members, especially after the cancellation of the Indoor 2021 season.

“I’m really excited for this upcoming season, we have a lot of young talent,” Carrera said.

“A lot of our freshmen are really contributing to the team. We have a lot of explosive people and I think we’re gonna make a lot of noise.”

The Jaspers also recorded top-three finishes in the mile, Michael Hennelly, long jump, Brian Odour, and the 800m, Travis Delaney and Justin Jordaens.

Preckajlo and Anu Awonusi were named MAAC Field Athletes of the Week after both throwers set new MAAC lead-

ing marks.

Preckajlo won the women’s shot put competition with a 14.34m toss and Awonusi won the men’s with a distance of 15.85m.

“It was really awesome to be named MAAC Performer of the Week, two weeks in a row,” Preckajlo said. “I feel like you could really see our training paying off in the weight room and out here in the circle at Draddy. It’s great to be with my team and I’m glad to see the recognition from all my hard work.”

Preckajlo is looking forward to the competition in the MAAC this season.

“I think we will be pretty competitive in the MAAC, although we do have a young group of throwers,” Preckajlo said. “I feel like a lot of our seniors and grad students can really help in training and at meets for the younger kids and I can see us performing well in the MAAC.” While COVID-19 canceled the track and field season last year, Preckajlo said that it has helped the team strengthen their throwing technique and also their community.

“I feel like the community our team has is a big strength,” Preckajlo said. “You’ll see a lot of us are able to support each other, we say our team is like a family, and specifically for the throwing team you can really

Alexandra Preckajlo gears up for a throw while competeing for the Jaspers.

GOJASPERS/ COURTESY see that when we compete and at practice how close we are. I feel like that helps us push each other to compete to the best of our ability every day.”

Awonusi achieved his new MAAC leading mark on his second throw.

“It was a small stepping stone,” Awonusi said. “I’ve been out for two years so it’s a bit of a long grind to get back to the PR. We will keep building and see how it goes.”

As a graduate student Awonusi has seen the progression of the team and he recognizes the impacts of COVID-19 and how it has strengthened the team to achieve its goals.

“It was definitely very difficult because we all missed out on the COVID-19 season and then I got injured so it was definitely a tough kind of grind to get back into throwing shape,” Awonusi said. “It’s been really cool to be able to watch my fel-

low athletes and fellow friends dig a bit harder to get the season going.”

Awonusi’s throw was over two meters clear of freshman teammate Peter Athanailos.

Joseph Pelio, a sophomore thrower, achieved second and Athanailos finished third.

“I’m excited to kind of get back into the competition and, you know, throw my name into the bucket and try and go back for it again,”Awonusi said.

Marc Carrera crossed the line in first in 1:55.79 to win the 800m at the MLK Tribute Invitational.

VINCENT DUSOVIC, GOJASPERS/ COURTESY