The Vignette is the official student newspaper and student voice of Nassau Community College It is published throughout the fall and spring semesters
Membership is open to all NCC students. The Vignette welcomes letters to the editor as well as Opinions articles Letters should be limietd to 350 words Opinions essays should be limited to 700 words Letters and Opinions pieces must be signed and contain the author’s telephone number or campus extension The newspaper will withhold names on request The editorial board reserves the right to edit stories or letters for clarity and length
Views expressed in letters and Opinions essays do not necessarily reflect those of the editorial board
The Vignette accepts classified and display advertisements from campus and off-campus advertisers. Publication of ads in the newspaper does not imply endorsement of products or services
Address: Vignette Nassau Community College College Center Building, Rm. 347 Garden City, NY 11530
Telephone: (516) 222-7071
nccvignette@gmail.com thevignetteatncc.com
Meet the Editor-In-Chief
Greetings to all, reading the resurrection of the Vignette, I’d like to first start by saying thank you for keeping us cherished in your hearts. I speak for all the Vignette family when I say this, without our dedicated audience, we wouldn't be able to continue providing the most accurate news at Nassau Community College.
My name is Christopher Jean, this is my second semester at Nassau; planning to graduate in Early Spring 2026. I’ve had no prior experience with news editing, however, I am a natural-born, fearless leader When I was offered this position, I was caught a bit off guard, nevertheless, I did not back down. It was not easy bringing back this beloved paper, through trials & tribulation, we are eccentric to release our first issue after being dormant for two years. With a young core, we are adamant on providing a voice for the students. We strive on being the most accurate news source for Nassau Community College for the long run.
Trump's Return to Power: A Nation Divided and His Agenda Ahead
By Alexus Heiserman Managing Editor
The Electoral College map of the 2024 election results// Photo Courtesy of the Associated Press
Early Wednesday November 6th, Donald Trump was declared president elect. The presidential race came down to battleground states including Arizona, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Michigan, North Carolina and Wisconsin, leaving many Americans on edge as they waited for final counts The margin of victory was thin in some places, with Trump winning Pennsylvania with just a 0 8% margin according to BBC’s website
Ultimately Trump secured 312 electoral votes Exit polls indicate that Hispanic voters had the largest tilt towards Trump, with support for the Republican Party rising by 14% compared to 2020 Along with his win in the Electoral College, Trump also won the popular vote, drawing nearly 75 million ballots, a testament to his support across the country
With the Republican Party also gaining control of the Senate and likely retaining the House of Representatives, Trump's return to the White House marks a significant political shift in the country
Vice President Kamala Harris who would have become the first woman and the second person of color to hold the presidency conceded the race on November 6, offering a message of unity. She pledged to work with the Biden administration to ensure a peaceful transfer of power This peaceful tone from Harris stands in stark contrast to Trump’s past behavior The former president has never formally conceded the 2020 election, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary, and his baseless claims of election fraud directly led to the violent January 6 Capitol insurrection
With his victory secured, Trump outlined his policy agenda for his second term Central to his platform are sweeping tax cuts and a tough-on-immigration stance Trump has made clear that he intends to slash corporate tax rates from 21% to 15%, a move widely seen as benefiting the wealthiest Americans and corporations while offering little relief for middle- and lowincome Americans
In addition, Trump has vowed to dismantle President Biden’s landmark Inflation Reduction Act, a set of policies aimed at lowering healthcare costs and addressing climate change Looking ahead, Trump’s second term promises to be one of considerable change, though his agenda is already drawing sharp criticism
Perhaps the most controversial proposed policy of Trump’s agenda is his push for stricter immigration policies Trump has stated that on his first day in office he will deport 1 million immigrants His promise to continue building a border wall between the U S and Mexico has reignited debates over immigration and human rights Experts warn that such policies could lead to racial tensions and destabilize communities, something that Americans have witnessed when Trump enacted his Muslim ban in 2017
Trump has also expressed a plan to eliminate the Department of Education (DOE), a move that could affect American students and their families, particularly those reliant on financial aid programs like Pell Grants
The DOE has long been a crucial support system for college students, overseeing financial aid distribution, enforcing civil rights in education, and ensuring that federal funds are allocated to students in need Trump's proposal to abolish this department could cripple access to higher education for millions of low-income students, many of whom depend on Pell Grants to afford college The long-term impact of such a move would likely result in a more stratified education system, where educational opportunities become increasingly out of reach for the disadvantaged
Trump’s focus on dismantling government agencies extends beyond education, as he has also expressed interest in cutting down the federal workforce with the help of Elon Musk, Trump’s vocal billionaire supporter Musk and former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy have been named the co-leads of the newly created Department of Government Efficiency, Trump indicates this department will operate outside the confines of government
However, Trump's appointment of Musk raises questions about conflict of interest Trump did not address the fact that Musk’s companies receive government contracts and subsidies Some argue that policies aimed at reducing and reallocating government spending could ultimately prioritize Musk’s business interests over the needs of everyday Americans
In terms of health policy, Trump has promised to give to Robert F Kennedy Jr , a vocal critic of vaccines, a health roll in his administration, to reshape the nation’s health policies. Kennedy’s controversial views on vaccines have caused alarm among public health experts. Trump said that he would let Kennedy “go wild” on health in his administration.
Additionally, Trump’s plans for health care reform, including a potential overhaul of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), remain a key priority. His administration will likely continue efforts to repeal or replace Obamacare, which could leave millions of Americans without health insurance, particularly those who rely on Medicaid to afford care.
Perhaps one of the most polarizing aspects of Trump’s Agenda47 plan, outlined in a recent campaign video, is his proposal to provide “reparations” to white Americans, whom he claims are the real victims of racial discrimination Trump announced that he would ask the Department of Justice to fine colleges and universities that consider diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in their admissions processes, using the funds raised from these penalties to provide restitution to white people
This proposal has been widely criticized as a reversal of progress made toward racial equity in higher education and a divisive move that could further inflame racial tensions in the U S
On the international front, Trump has promised to pursue economic policies, including unprecedented tariffs on foreign goods, particularly those from China While these measures are meant to strengthen American industries, they could have unintended consequences, such as increased costs for consumers and retaliatory tariffs from other countries, which could hurt U S businesses and the economy
Despite these controversial plans, Trump’s supporters argue that these measures are necessary to restore American greatness However, for many, his proposed policies represent a dangerous shift toward division
The Vignette asked students their feelings on the election outcome and got an overwhelming response. It is clear that this election was an important issue for many.
One student Lauren D. stated “ I’m scared of what rights will be taken away next. This election showed us that there are many people who don’t believe that women, people of color, or LGBTQ+ Americans deserve basic human rights. We need to continue to fight back against hate.”
Another student Christopher M. shared he was excited about the election results “ I can’t wait for this country to get back on track. The last 4 years were a mess. I hope everyone can work together to make America greater-
-and see in the next 4 years how much we improve as a country ”
A student who wanted to only be known as Taylor, who didn’t vote for either candidate stated “I didn't vote for Kamala or Trump
There needs to be an overhaul of American Democracy, it’s young, we can still make it work for the people We should remember at one point over 50% of this country thought slavery was the right thing to vote for as well ”
The Vignette conducted a survey, asking students to weigh in on what issues matter the most to them after the election results were revealed The economy emerged as the top priority, with many students expressing a desire for a better quality of life and economic stability Another prominent issue was peace Students emphasized their belief in the importance of keeping the U S out of unnecessary foreign conflicts Many students also stated the importance of protecting individual rights and freedoms and advancing equality and social justice
There were other historic wins this election cycle, in New York State, Laura Gillien won the US House seat, flipping Nassau County blue In Delaware, Sarah McBride has become the first openly transgender member of the house Andy Kim has become the first member of congress of Korean descent, he won the New Jersey Senator seat Angela Alsobrooks in Maryland has become the states first Black female Senator Along with Julie Fedorchak becoming North Dakota’s first woman elected to the House of Representatives This leaves Mississippi as the last state to never have elected a woman to the House of Representatives.
As Trump prepares to take office again in January 2025, some think Trump’s second presidency represents a dangerous shift toward authoritarianism and a retreat from democratic norms. For others, it is a longawaited victory in the battle to restore what they see as America’s traditional values. Whatever the outcome, one thing is clear: the next four years will be as contentious and unpredictable as the election that brought him back to power.
The Vignette stands proud as a voice for all students. If you’d like to contribute to The Vignette please email us at nccvignette@gmail.com or write to us on Instagram @NCCVIGNETTE.
HAPPENINGS
Hispanic Heritage Month Celebrations with SOL
By Shanice Brown Business Manager
Hispanic Heritage month is a celebration every year of the work and history of hispanic people in America. It is not your usual heritage celebration as it begins in the middle of September and goes until the middle of October, September 15thOctober 15th.
This is because the month encompasses many independence days for Latin American countries, like Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and more This month is a time to shine a light on the diverse people from Hispanic and Latinx backgrounds
According to the 2022 U S Census Bureau Hispanics/Latinos ( of any race) represent 19 1% of the total U S population However, Hispanic people represent 31 2% of NCC’s student population
The SOL club ( Student Organization of Latines) is one of the largest clubs on campus. They regularly have celebrations and events to promote the diversity of Hispanic people and culture.
“Our goal is to educate everyone, through a myriad of programs, about the diversity and richness that exists within the multitudes of Hispanic culture.” The club states in their official description.
Their efforts to bring the campus community closer are effective The club often has games and activities during their club meetings SOL has made a place at NCC where students know they can find friends and a community to rely on Club members can find solace that there is a community that values their heritage and creates a place for them to flourish
The Vignette asked members of SOL and other Hispanic students to share what their Hispanic heritage means to them:
Edwin G. said “ I’m proud to be Hispanic, but being Hispanic also means breaking cycles of abuse and alcoholism. Hispanic culture is filled with laughing, children, food, and persevering emotionally and physically ”
Jonathan commented, “To me what means the most in my cultural heritage is our cultural dances!”
Britney states “Being a Latina means great culture and great food ”
Jenn A says “ Hispanic heritage to me is being in a large family of different places that come together as one ”
Carlos S said “ It means everything! Being a part of Hispanic culture and heritage means I have a rich history and my family has survived through so much to make sure I have a better life.”
Sara G. said “ Theres no one like us! Mi gente Latino!!”
If you are interested in joining the organization or just keeping up with SOL events, follow their Instagram page, @S.O.L.NCC !
SOL’s Dia De Los Muertos SOL’s Dia De Los Muertos celebration // celebration // Photos on this page by: Photos on this page by: Fatima Chavez Fatima Chavez Illustrations
Photos on this page by: Alexus Heiserman
Photos on this page by: Alexus Heiserman
College as an Institution Is Failing Us.
By Shayna Cristy-Mendez Opinion Editor
In "What Makes a University Education Worthwhile?,” Amy Gutmann makes several points in favor of pursuing a college education. The benefits, according to her, include fostering critical thinking, personal skills, and helping young adults contribute to society
As an exercise in critical thinking, let me pose a question: is college really the only place those skills can be fostered? Especially, when curriculums are overloaded with standardized requirements, teachers are overworked usually underpaid and the highest grade doesn’t necessarily go to whoever’s the most eager to learn?
Is critical thinking really the point when a GPA is a culmination of how well you retain what you’ve been told rather than how well you form your own thoughts
Admittedly, I’m skeptical when it comes to the advantages of standardized learning and I’m not entirely convinced that a college education holds the same value it once did. Nor am I convinced that humans need a hierarchal form of education to thrive or learn complex ideas I am also of the more radical opinion that higher education remains, to this day, inaccessible for a vast majority of people and helps fuel a society that thrives on wealth inequality
However, the irony of this statement isn’t entirely lost on me Seeing as I’m both a college student and the Opinions Editor of the Vignette, it’s hard to ignore the fact that I’ve begun to carve out a place for myself in Academia I’ll be the first to admit that I’ve done so willingly My choices are my own, etcetera Yet, like many college students, I’m also here because I know that I need to be A degree, as we all know, has become increasing necessary for employment and, by extension, survival Especially, for those of us who find the idea of entrepreneurship exhausting However, as more individuals pursue higher education, the baseline qualifications for many jobs has only increased. What was once considered a significant accomplishment, such as obtaining a bachelor's degree, has quickly become a basic requirement for many entrylevel positions. It stands to reason, the more educated a population becomes, the less their educational credentials are valued.
I can hear the Business majors crying already, It’s just basic supply and demand! Yes, yes, as the De Beers company has been privy to since 1888, shiny things are only as valuable as we make them That is to say, the value of diamonds is maintained through their perceived rarity and desirability Yet the key word here is perceived College degrees, for better or worse, operate in a similar fashion they’re only truly valuable when they’re seen as such
Let’s be honest for a second though: Who wants to drop hundreds of thousands of dollars on a college education just to end up pulling espresso shots at a Starbucks? It’s not exactly a great incentive to keep working towards a degree
The shifting standard of achievement has, by effect, lessened the perceived value of the once cherished bachelors degree College graduates are forced to reach ever higher, simply as a way to remain competitive and corporations are incentivized to keep underpaying overqualified workers because it’s just the new “norm.”
It’s a phenomenon that The Simpsons was even mocking by 2004.
When Bart Simpson uttered the lines, “Look at me, I'm a grad student! I'm 30 years old and made $600 last year!” It felt less like a joke and more like a kick to the groin
According to the Lumina Foundation, as of 2022, 54 3% of working-age adults have obtained a college degree or other postsecondary credential, marking the highest completion rate since the foundation started tracking this data in 2008
In New York specifically, the higher education attainment rate is 55 8% By contrast, according to Census gov, in the year 2000, only 24% of Americans aged 25 and over had completed at least a bachelor's degree This dramatic increase in degree holders highlights the growing competition and the diminishing value of a college education in the job market. However, the answer isn’t as simple as just turning your back on Higher Education.
Living in a time where college is, in some ways, more accessible to common people than ever before poses an interesting challenge
A bachelor's degree is paradoxically viewed as both inconsequential and a requirement for most forms of employment Evidence shows that college graduates fare better in the job market long term, as opposed to individuals whoareonlyhigh-schoolgraduates
Yet, the increasing number of degree holders has led to a form of credential inflation which has resulted in a job market where a college degree is necessary to qualify for positions that previously only required a high school diploma Furthermore, the financial burden of obtaining a degree has skyrocketed, leaving many graduates with substantial debt This debt can offset the longterm financial benefits of a college education, making it difficult for some to achieve economic stability Especially, if there’s a lackofgenerationalwealthtobeginwith Factor in societal issues like inflation and rising suicide rates (which are often exacerbated by financial struggles) and the immense pressure placed on young adults is palpable The notion of "education merely for the sake of attaining knowledge” has become a remarkably privileged stance in 2024, as many individuals prioritize survival over intellectualenrichment
Whensurvivalisdirectlylinkedtofinancial stability, and one of the only avenues for financial stability is often college, higher education ceases to be an option and finds itself as the prevailing ultimatum of our generation. Not to sound like a disgruntled conspiracy theorist, or a deplorable commie, but when the welfare of your nation hinges on for-profit institutions that have a tendency to lobby in favor of unscrupulous and harmful endeavors(1), the system becomes alarmingly susceptibletocorruptionandabuseofpower.
However, I also know that knowledge for thesakeofknowledgewillalwaysbevaluable despite my hangups regarding the limits of our society Maybe, at the end of the day, this is also one of the most important aspects of established institutions: they show us what partsofthestatusquoareandaren’tworking.
1- Look no further than Nassau Community College (which doled out over 120k to a lobbying firm backing a nearby casino project) See, (https://nypostcom/2024/05/15/usnews/nassau-community-college-slapped-with-ethics- complaintfor-dishing-out-120k-to-lobbying-firm-to-back-casino/)
Discovering Timeless Styles at the Manhattan Vintage Show
By Melissa Panin Contributor
Over the weekend of October 18-October 21, the Metropolitan Pavilion hosted one of the largest vintage events New York City has ever seen The Manhattan Vintage show, drawing in over 90 vendors and attracting some of the fashion world’s most elite, is an absolute gold mind for vintage enthusiasts like myself Everyone around shows off their own unique styles and wardrobe choices creating a bright and colorful environment Tickets range from $15.00 student passes to $45.00 3-day preview passes, making it an affordable event, especially for us students.
Some of my favorite vendors, which are all listed on the Manhattan Vintage Website, included Porter Vintage, Trust Luck Vintage, Eclectic Inventory, Trash Closet, and last but not least, Local Clothing, which I purchased a piece from. Local Clothing describes themselves as offering a “well edited wardrobe of Americana vintage clothes as well as European utility garments for all genders.” I was drawn to this jacket in their collection that’s covered completely with lighthouses from all over New England Both my parents have always had a special liking for lighthouses, hanging paintings and signs all over the house growing up It immediately caught my eye and I had to buy it!
The Manhattan Vintage offers inexpensive snacks and refreshments at the bar in the back of the show I enjoyed a much needed cold water bottle and a buttered croissant, which they heated up for me.
If you enjoy thrifting, scrolling through outfit boards on pinterest, and exploring the vintage world much like I do, then this event should immediately be added to your bucket list. Although the Fall show has ended, you have plenty of time to start thinking about the Winter and Spring shows coming up in January and May! Whether you’re looking to add some vintage spice into your wardrobe, or simply just soak in the vibrance of fashion culture, the Manhattan Vintage Show has proven to be impossible to miss For more information you can head to www manhattanvintage com and check out their Instagram, @thevintageshow
NCC’s 2024 Faculty Art Show
By Alexus Heiserman Managing Editor
The Plaza Art Gallery has officially opened the first exhibit of the semester, the Faculty Art Show! It is an unmissable experience for anyone with an appreciation for the boundless possibilities of art Located on the plaza level of the Tower Building, hosted in the Plaza Art Gallery, this year’s exhibit showcases a range of works by the faculty of the NCC Art Department Whether you're an art student looking for inspiration, a casual visitor, or someone simply seeking to immerse yourself in the world of contemporary art, there’s something for everyone.
Izolda Maksym, the chairperson of the Art Department and also an art professor at NCC said “ What is crucial about this exhibition is that students and people from the community get to see the work of the professors. They are artists first and foremost. This platform allows them to showcase their expertise as well as their passions Their craft extends beyond the classroom and students can see that for themselves ”
Many art students dream of one day showcasing their work to the public, and this exhibit offers an opportunity to see how a professional artist’s career can grow The works on display are not only inspiring in terms of their technical skill but also serve as an invitation to explore the many possible careers that an art degree can lead to. The exhibit gives students the chance to witness their mentors' artistic accomplishments, with this they can get inspired and start picturing their own artistic path Whether you're considering a future in fine art, commercial design, or innovative new media,
this exhibit shows that art doesn’t have to fit into a single mold it can adapt, evolve, and cross boundaries in exciting new ways
You'll have the chance to see a diverse range of art, the exhibit features over 50 pieces of work from more than 30 individuals. From intricate sculptures to lush paintings, 3D printed designs to packaging art, and even video pieces, the show demonstrates the varied paths that art can take, and the often unexpected places where art and life intersect.
The Faculty Art Show presents a rare opportunity to see what happens when passion meets dedication Whether you’re an art student looking for motivation, a member of the community curious about the creative process, or simply someone who loves great art, the 2024 NCC Faculty Art Show is the place to be. It’s a celebration of artistic achievement, and a powerful reminder of how art whether made with clay, code, or packaged on a box continues to shape the world around us
The show is open to the public, with free admission Monday through Friday from 11 a m to 4 p m at the Plaza Art Gallery If you weren't able to make it to the opening reception make sure you don't miss the closing reception on December 12th! This exhibition is more than just a collection of works it’s an exploration of the dedication, innovation, and diversity that defines the NCC Art Department Don’t miss the chance to see the works of your professors and dive into their creative worlds
Photo By: Joseph Gioiaa Photo By: Joseph Gioiaa
Photo By: Fatima Chavez Photo By: Fatima Chavez
Photo By: Fatima Chavez Photo By: Fatima Chavez
The opening reception was a success Many
The opening reception was a success. Many visitors came to hear directly from the Art faculty visitors came to hear directly from the faculty about their pieces in the exhibit about their pieces in exhibit
Roaring Success: Lions Athletics Shine with Stellar Seasons
NCC’s Football team defeated #4 ranked Hudson Valley Community College 21-7 at Nassau's Homecoming and Alumni Day on October 26th. The linebacker Leonardo Lopez had 5 total tackles, 2 sacks and a 55 yard touchdown interception!
The Women's Volleyball team finished their season off with a 19-3 overall score. This is the best season for NCC since 2018.
The Men’s Soccer team wraps up their season, making it to the semifinal round of NJCAA Championship. They’re finishing the season with a 15-3-2 overall record.
For the latest updates on scores and future games you can follow @Lionsncc or head to the official website for everything Athletics at NCC: www nassaulions com
