The Current Vol.37 Issue 4 by MakoNews

October 29, 2026

Issue 4, Volume 37

NSU's student-run newspaper, housed in the Department of Communication, Media, and the Arts

NEWS p. 3

FEATURES p. 7

ARTS p. 10

SCIENCE AND HEALTH p. 13

HBIA students to compete at regional climate summit

Preserving South Florida’s roots at Flamingo Gardens

Behind the curtain of the Shark Talent Showcase

Coordinated effort tackles seasonal flooding on NSU campuses

Jim Crutchfield inducted into the 2026 Broward County Sports Hall of Fame SPORTS By Jonathan Paul

Jim Crutchfield, head coach of NSU men’s basketball, has been inducted into the Broward County Sports Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2026. The Broward County Sports Hall of Fame honors athletes, coaches and sports pioneers who have been or are currently living in Broward County. Former NFL stars Michael Irvin, Jason Taylor and

COURTESY OF NSU ATHLETICS

Isaac Bruce have been recipients of this award, as well as former Florida Marlin and World Series champion, Cliff Floyd. “I was surprised because I am not from Broward County. Usually, those awards are reserved for people who grew up in the county and have been residents here their whole life. I’m a little bit of a transplant. I have been here 10 years

Jim Crutchfield, head coach of NSU’s men’s basketball, coaches his team during Elite Eight practice in Pittsburgh on March 23.

now, and this has become a home for me too, because of that, I was honored and surprised,” Crutchfield said.

CRUTCHFIELD p. 14

NSU head coach of men’s basketball Jim Crutchfield watches his team from the sideline during the NCAA Division II Final Four against Lander University in Pittsburgh on March 27.

| October 29, 2026

Located in the Don Taft University Center Room 328 @nsu_makonews / makomedia.nova.edu

NEWSROOM

Phone: 954-262-8455 makonews@nova.edu

BUSINESS & ADVERTISING

Phone: 954-262-8455 thecurrentad@nova.edu

NEWSROOM STAFF Antonio Miguel Escorzon Editor-in-Chief

Nehal Gaur Assistant Web Editor

Constanza Andujar Managing Editor

Amaia Flores Social Media Manager

Lila Taricco Art Director

Yasmin De Andrade Rodrigues Social Media Manager

Sebastian Castro Graphic Designer

Mirkah Pierre Social Media Intern

Alexandria Munroe Features Editor

Joshua Hyde Business Manager

Samiksha Chemukula Science/Health Writer Daria Gross Distribution Manager/ Multimedia Reporter

Chris Delboni Mako Media Network Director

Kayle Hage Reporter

Mike Lynn Mako Media Network Assistant Director/ Music Desk Adviser

Bryce Johnson Reporter/Film Critic

Joyce Moed The Current Adviser

Sneha Subhash Science/Health Writer

Dr. Mario D’Agostino Sports Desk Adviser

Jonathan Paul Sports Writer

Michelle Solomon Multimedia Adviser

Princess Mari Cabusao Photojournalist Samantha Stein Photojournalist Allen Worrell Web Editor

MAKO TV

Dr. Eric Mason Digital Adviser Dr. Shanti Bruce Chair, Department of Communication, Media, and the Arts

MAKO RADIO

MAKO NEWS

Letter from the editor Dear Readers, Hello there, Sharks! I hope you enjoy reading this issue of The Current, NSU’s student-run newspaper. I am Antonio Miguel Escorzon, the editor-in-chief. In this issue, you will read about Jim Crutchfield, head men’s basketball coach, being inducted into the Broward County Sports Hall of Fame. You will also find out how Department of Communication, Media, and the Arts students prepare for the Shark Talent Showcase. We have stories on the king tides season, as well as Saint David Catholic Church becoming a new stop for the Shark Shuttle. Halloween is almost here. I enjoy dressing up in spooky costumes and having candy. I plan to dress up as a Sith Lord from the Star Wars franchise. The Current is part of Mako Media Network. MMN also includes Mako TV, NSU’s student-run broadcast news station on YouTube, and Mako Radio,

NSU’s student-run radio station on 88.5 FM. If you have questions, comments or story pitches, you can find us in the Don Taft University Center, room 328. On behalf of everyone at The Current, thank you for reading and making us part of your day. Take care, Antonio Miguel Escorzon

AMANDA M. DELBONI JOURNALISM ENDOWMENT FUND The Amanda M. Delboni Journalism Endowment Fund was established to support NSU’s journalism program, including student scholarships, mentorship and shadowing opportunities. Donating to the Amanda M. Delboni Journalism Endowment Fund supports NSU journalism education and prepares students for industry careers.

The Current is Nova Southeastern University’s established vehicle for student reporting. Editorials, commentaries and advertisements in this publication reflect the opinions of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the University or its officials, The Current advisers or advertisers. The Current will not publish

unsigned letters except under special circumstances at the discretion of the Editor-in-Chief. The Current reserves the right to edit, publish or deny submitted works. The Current shall remain free of associations and activities that may compromise integrity or damage credibility or otherwise create bias, real or perceived.

NEWS

HBIA students to compete at regional climate summit By Constanza Andujar Three students from NSU’s Huizenga Business Innovation Academy have been selected to compete in the Collegiate Innovation Showcase on Wednesday, Nov. 4 with Greenback, their proposed cashback platform that rewards environmentally sustainable purchases. The competition will take place during Innovation Day, the opening day of the 18th Annual Southeast Florida Climate Leadership Summit, from Nov. 4-6 at the Broward County Convention Center. The showcase features four student-developed proposals addressing environmental challenges, including coastal and ocean innovation, green technology and stormwater management. “When you think of an ocean exchange research competition, you don’t necessarily think business students,” Monica Paneque, director of the HBIA program, said. “I think it’s especially unique that business students are taking that route.” Yuval Fefer, junior business management major; Muhammad Raiyan, junior double major in finance and accounting; and Michael O’Connell, sophomore marketing major, first developed the idea for Greenback as

part of an entrepreneurship challenge in an HBIA bootcamp. “We were actually working on a different group project together. So we were sitting at the table and we were like, ‘Why not just do it together already?’” Raiyan said. Their proposal was among the top projects in the academy’s internal competition, leading faculty to encourage them to apply for the Collegiate Innovation Showcase. Fefer said Greenback would allow customers to earn rewards for qualifying sustainable purchases through partnerships with participating retailers. Katherine O’Fallon, executive director of the Marine Research Hub, a nonprofit organization that is sponsoring this year’s summit, is helping organize the Innovation Day. The annual event brings together government officials, researchers and businesses from across South Florida to discuss regional environmental challenges and potential solutions. “The theme of this year’s climate compact is called ‘Capitalizing on Climate,’” she said. “It’s an opportunity for growth of business and solutions and technology that’s going to scale not only in South Florida, but hopefully we’ll have a global impact because we’re not the only ones who are dealing with these challenges.”

COURTESY OF NSU’S PUBLIC RELATIONS, MARKETING, AND CREATIVE SERVICES

Muhammad Raiyan, junior double major in finance and accounting, practices his pitch to present Greenback at Climate Leadership Summit.

O’Fallon said the competition is designed to connect early stage ideas with professionals who could help bring them into development. “It’s an idea that just needs a little bit of nurturing, a little bit of resource, connectivity, awareness and exposure,” O’Fallon said. Paneque said the experience gives the students an opportunity to apply their business education in an unfamiliar field while receiving feedback from professionals outside the university. “Putting themselves in those uncomfortable situations and getting true feedback, going up against other competitors who have fully running

businesses and are working professionals is a big lesson for them,” Paneque said. The students said they hope the showcase will connect them with investors who could help them develop Greenback beyond the competition. “There will be a lot of influential people there, people that want to invest specifically in green conservation, ocean conservation, whatever it might be,” Fefer said. “So if we do get funding for it, we’d actually develop the software and see if it works and then continue on to future competitions or actually making this a startup.”

From left: Muhammad Raiyan, junior double major in finance and accounting; Yuval Fefer, junior business management major; Dr. Harry K. Moon, president and CEO of Nova Southeastern University; and Michael O’Connell, sophomore marketing major, pose in front of their proposed collegiate innovation pitch, Greenback.

October 29, 2026

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

NSU celebrates Wellness Week By Alexandria Munroe

The Office of Campus Recreation and Wellness hosted a Therapy Dogs/ Stress Reduction event and a Merenge Master Dance Class as part of its Wellness Week activities. During the Therapy Dogs/Stress Reduction event on Oct. 13, representatives from the Humane Society of Broward County brought their therapy dogs and taught students how therapy animals can help them during their times of need. Sol Crisanto-Ojeda,

senior criminal justice major, said the event helped raise awareness about the different ways students can care for their mental health. “I think it’s very important to have these events, just because of the awareness they bring,” Crisanto-Ojeda said. “There’s more than one way to take care of your mental health.” During the Merenge Master Dance Class, students were able to learn the basics of solo and partnered Merenge

with an instructor. Bea Gomez, junior psychology major, said the event gave students an opportunity to connect with one another while taking a break from their academics. “My favorite part was partnering up with other people I didn’t know since we were all learning how to dance for the first time,” Gomez said. “Even though it’s a little awkward, we’re all a little awkward together, and it really brings that sense of community.”

Scan the QR code to read more about Wellness Week:

PHOTO BY ALEXANDRIA MUNROE

NSU students pet a therapy dog from the Humane Society of Broward County during Wellness Week.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

NSU Builds for the Future By Antonio Miguel Escorzon Cathy J. Husman Fine Arts Gallery Expansion The Cathy J. Husman Fine Arts Gallery, on the first floor of the Alvin Sherman Library, Research, and Information Technology Center, has expanded to include more pieces from NSU benefactor David Husman’s collection. The gallery has pieces from East and South Asia as well as Western Europe. Mariana García, administrative coordinator in Archives and Exhibits, said the community will now

have access to more of the collection. “I’m very glad that Mr. Husman chose the university to be the keepers of this collection,” she said. “I think it’s great that it’s free and completely accessible to the public at all times that the Alvin Sherman Library is open.” The gallery is planned to reopen in December. Dauer Building Middle School Playground Renovation Design and Construction is

renovating the playground at the NSU University School’s Dauer Building. Kristy Martinez, a project manager in Design and Construction, said the playground’s basketball court and picnic benches will be refreshed. “The basketball court will be resurfaced,” she said. “There’ll be some new concrete under the existing canopy for the picnic benches. We’re removing that mulch and putting in a concrete pad that extends under the canopy.” Martinez said there will be a new

multipurpose area, so students can play different sports, like pickleball and volleyball. “It’s a passion project for me because our University School students are near and dear to us,” she said. “We are giving them a place to enjoy their break time because I know they study so hard, and they’re so academically involved.” The playground is expected to be open for University School students by February.

NEWS

PHOTO BY PRINCESS MARI CABUSAO

Rev. Ryan Saunders bows at the altar after the entrance procession during Sunday Mass at Saint David Catholic Church.

NSU adds Saint David Catholic Church stop to weekend shuttle route By Constanza Andujar The NSU’s Shark Shuttle added a new stop at Saint David Catholic Church to its Weekend Express route this semester. Located on University Drive, Saint David is the closest Catholic church to NSU’s Davie/Fort Lauderdale campus. The new stop provides students an accessible way to attend religious services and is the only place of worship served by the university’s shuttle system. “The stop comes from the increase in Catholicism on campus and that was reflected in the [church] attendance. And then after a while, they still saw more and more students coming, and then they heard a lot of, especially, freshmen and sophomores, that were walking over,” Kyle Hannan, senior finance major and co-president of the Catholic Life Student Ministry, said. Daniel J. Alfonso, executive vice president for NSU’s Facilities Management, Public Safety, and Business Services, said the stop was added this semester after the church and students from the club requested it during summer. “We have a route that on weekends takes you to Walmart, and there’s no really additional cost to stop [at the

church],” Alfonso said. “In this case, to me, it’s an easy solution. We help people.” Hannan said the Catholic Life club has historically maintained a connection with Saint David Catholic Church. The club had been inactive until Hannan and co-president Maya Sanchez decided to revive it in January and reconnect with Saint David. “They have great priests at Saint David,” Hannan said. “And the partnership has been really good and we have become close. We help volunteer. We’ve done fundraisers at the church.” The new stop comes as religion establishes a bigger presence on campus. “Studies have shown that young people are far more interested and involved in religion than older generations,” Amanda Furiasse, associate professor of digital humanities and medical humanities in the Department of Humanities and Politics, said. Hannan has seen that interest within his organization. He said attendance to the club’s event has doubled since last year. “I think it has to do specifically

with the chaos in society,” Hannan said. “There’s just always anxiety and people need some system to keep them in place, and they see it through religion, through Christianity and the teachings of Jesus. They find a home there.” Furiasse said that young people are turning to religion to address the criticisms they have with modern institutions. “For example, commercialism, extreme capitalism, greed. They are looking for, I think, a more traditional experience,” she said. “Where technology is increasingly usurping the

role of humans, and it’s kind of an experience of depersonalization and alienation, I think a lot of young people are turning to conservative religions or more traditional religions, to address their experience of alienation.” There are currently seven active religious clubs at NSU, representing a variety of faiths, including Judaism, Islam and Christianity. “Definitely our generation is more spiritual and increasingly spiritual. It’s just people are going about it in different ways,” Hannan said. “We’re all trying to find something because we know that this material world isn’t all that’s there.”

PHOTO BY PRINCESS MARI CABUSAO

NSU’s Shark Shuttle parks at a stop waiting for passengers to board.

October 29, 2026

Sharks Speak: In honor of Halloween, who would you bring back from the dead?

BY KAYLE HAGE

“I would bring my grandma back from the dead. Her wisdom, kindness, and loving nature honestly gave me so much more hope in life. She’s been a crucial part of my life, and I would never take a single moment with her for granted.” Dimitri-William Burgess, freshman law major.

“I’d probably bring back Michael Jackson because the movie just came out, and it’s all I’ve been hearing lately. I’d love to see more content from him.” Jayleen Gonzalez, f reshman marine biology major.

“Someone I would bring back from the dead is my aunt, just because she passed away at such a young age, and my family and I miss her a lot. I would love the opportunity to learn more about her and get to know her better, especially because I was pretty young when she passed away.” Hannah Girum, junior public health major.

“I would bring back Teddy Roosevelt because I’d be really interested to hear what he would say about the environmental crisis happening around the world today.” Bryce Voss, senior marine biology major.

FEATURES

OH, THE PLACES TO GO!

Preserving South Florida’s roots at Flamingo Gardens

3570 S. Flamingo Road Davie, FL 33330-1614

By Constanza Andujar

PHOTO BY CONSTANZA ANDUJAR

People feed the flamingos at Flamingo Gardens.

For almost a century, Flamingo Gardens has worked to protect South Florida’s natural habitats and wildlife, while giving visitors the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. “It is my happy place. [Flamingo Gardens] means conservation. It means education about the Everglades, and we preserve, protect and educate,” Genevieve Marcello, chief strategy officer of Flamingo Gardens, said. Flamingo Gardens is a nonprofit 60-acre botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary in Davie. According to its website, what began in 1927 as a citrus grove has now grown into the largest collection of native wildlife in the state. Flamingos, black bears, alligators and river otters are just some of the animals for which the gardens care. “I just love what we stand for because they’re all rescued and in rehab.

So all of our animals are here because they have to be here, not because we don’t release them,” Miranda DePalma, wildlife supervisor at Flamingo Gardens, said. Verena Ulrich has been a Broward resident for seven years, but this was the first year she has purchased a summer pass to Flamingo Gardens. She said it is a fun place to enjoy the outdoors with her two young children, who particularly love seeing Bentley and Treena, the bear cubs. “It’s worth visiting because you get a lot for your money’s worth,” she said. “It’s a rescue facility, and they have the overall determination of taking care of the animals, which is very nice.” Flamingo Gardens is open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online or in person, with general admission priced at $24 for adults. Throughout the years, it has become

one of Davie’s main attractions. Visitors can spend hours exploring the trails, learning about the animals, attending wildlife encounters, feeding flamingos, touring the Wray home museum or visiting the art gallery. Throughout the property, towering trees offer more than just shade from the Florida sun. “My favorite thing about Flamingo Gardens is all of our trees, specifically our champion trees,” Marcello said. “So there’s trees here that are almost 100 years old, and the oak trees that are out here are easily 250 years old.” The gardens are home to 23 champion trees, which are recognized as the largest of their species in the state, including an Indian jujube, which is the biggest tree of its kind in the nation. A tram takes visitors to the back of the property, where a butterfly conservatory and pollinator garden are located. Along the way, visitors can see

some of the oldest surviving canopy growth in Florida. For Judy Paul, Town of Davie mayor, exploring Flamingo Gardens is a must. “One place that I adore is Flamingo Gardens,” Paul said. “The butterfly garden, everything at Flamingo Gardens, is a gem. I think it’s a really important place to visit.” Despite the increasing development in Broward County, Marcello said that the gardens have remained a pure piece of green space, preserving the natural heritage that makes South Florida unique. “We are a hidden gem in South Florida, and I meet people every day that say they’ve lived here all their life, and they’ve never been to Flamingo Gardens, and we’re turning 100 years old next year,” Marcello said. “It’s a treasure, for real.”

Date: Every day Time: 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Visit flamingogardens.org or scan the QR code for more information:

PHOTO BY CONSTANZA ANDUJAR

Jim Harmon, volunteer at Flamingo Gardens, interacts with Sabal, the resident Florida panther.

October 29, 2026

COURTESY OF ROADSIDE ATTRACTIONS AND SABAN FILMS

Delaney Quinn, Tristan Borders and Madison Skyy Polan in Buddy.

MOVIE REVIEW

‘Buddy’: An evil unicorn arrives for Halloween By Bryce Johnson With “Obsession” becoming one of the most profitable movies of all time, and “Resident Evil” receiving acclaim from fans and critics alike, 2026 has been a great year for horror films. Seeing as Halloween is right around the corner, I wanted to take a look at one of my favorite horror movies this year, “Buddy.” In “Buddy,” children live in a preschool television show called “It’s Buddy!” with talking creatures and objects, like “Barney & Friends” or “Blue’s Clues.” The leader of the children is Buddy, a magical orange unicorn who at first, seems to be friendly and inviting. However, as the children get to know Buddy more, they discover that he has a dark and sinister side to him. For a large part of the movie, “Buddy” plays out like actual episodes of the “It’s Buddy!” show. It has a 4:3 aspect ratio, educational lessons and a cute song to wrap everything up as the credits roll. The filmmakers took care to make the world look authentic with its bright, colorful sets and unique colors, using puppetry and practical effects rather than computer-generated imagery. I appreciated how they made “It’s Buddy!” seem like a real show you

could watch on PBS Kids, before things took a dark turn. It’s interesting to think about the movie from the perspective of the fictional show. Aside from the children, other characters like Betty Bunny, Mr. Mailbox and Strappy the talking backpack aren’t involved in Buddy’s evil antics. They genuinely want to help and educate the children. It’s only Buddy who manipulates them, and it touches on how dangerous technology, or in this case, television, can be if you let

yourself get sucked into it for too long. As scary and violent as “Buddy” is, it had many funny moments where the whole audience in my showing was laughing. There’s the famous line Buddy has about lying that has made the rounds on social media, and the whole movie has funny lines like that.

COURTESY OF ROADSIDE ATTRACTIONS AND SABAN FILMS

Delaney Quinn, Tristan Borders, Madison Skyy Polan and Cristin Milioti in Buddy.

In the end, “Buddy” is scary, funny and makes you think about the type of entertainment we watch and the danger that comes with it. If you would like to watch “Buddy,” it is available to rent or buy on digital video.

ARTS

Mako Radio DJ Schedule SHOWS DAY

MONDAY Week A

That’s News to Us

Week B

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

Week A

DJ K & DJ TIMELESS

ERA TO ERA Week B

DJ FLO

NOON - 1 P.M.

The Nostalgia Podcast with Jonathan Paul

NIGHT

DJ FLO

DJ JP & DJ LUSH

7 - 9 P.M.

Indie / Alternative

Hip-Hop / R&B

FRIDAY

THURSDAY

Week A

Off the Record

Week B

The B-Side

Instrumental Pop/ Big Band Music

DJ NATY International / Latin

DJ MXRII & DJ LULU

DJ ROMI Throwback Thursday / Jueves Con Puros Clásicos

EDM

MUSIC

The rising cost of being a music fan By Alexandria Munroe The average concert ticket price increased from $96 in 2019 to $134 in 2025, according to Pollstar. As the cost of live music shows rises, college students are changing how they experience live music and connect with their favorite artists. Angelina Banos, junior exercise and sport science major, said increasing ticket prices have made it difficult for her to attend concerts. “There were several artists that came [to South Florida] recently that I just completely was heartbroken over not having the money to go see them, even in the nosebleeds,” Banos said. Banos previously attended at least three concerts a year but now struggles to

afford one. She said her financial obligations have led her to attend smaller performances instead. “Now that I have so many financial responsibilities, I have to sacrifice seeing my favorite artists,” she said. “I still like to watch some cool smaller artists or tribute bands at Revolution Live and [The Casino @ Dania Beach], but it’s disappointing knowing that some of the artists I’ve loved for years are performing so close to me and I still can’t afford to see them.” Banos also said that the cost of concerts has lowered her excitement to see her favorite artists, but she still values live music and the emotional connection she has with them despite the costs of attending their shows.

“I still love and value music and my favorite artists, but it kinda puts a sadder undertone to that love,” she said. “I used to get so excited when my favorite artists announced tours, but now I almost dread looking at the prices.” Dolores Maqui, senior marketing major, said the rising prices have also changed which artists she chooses to see live. “I used to go to live shows four to five times every year,” she said. “I would go to any random one for the vibes, but now, I just go for bands and music styles I really, really like.” Maqui said that increasing ticket prices have affected how she experiences music and connects with

artists. “It’s becoming more exclusive, and I think that everyone should be able to enjoy it,” she said. “I think it’s turning something that’s really just for enjoyment into something you have to be preoccupied with and it messes up the energy.” Banos said expensive tickets can also limit the connection between artists and their audiences, especially fans who cannot afford to attend their performances. “I know that some people who love and adore artists the most are the ones who actually never have the opportunity to see them live,” Banos said. “It completely constricts your reach from maybe some of your most valued fans.”

October 29, 2026

Behind the curtain of the Shark Talent Showcase

PHOTOS BY SAMANTHA STEIN

Mariana “Angel” Barrera, sophomore psychology major, prepares for the Shark Talent Showcase at dress rehearsal. Evangelina Valverde, junior commercial music major, sings “City of Stars” during dress rehearsal.

By Alexandria Munroe Razor’s Edge Shark Talent hosted its fall showcase, “Lights, Camera, ACTION!,” on Oct. 16 in the Performance Theatre. The show also featured an art gallery, called “Behind the Scenes,” in the Black Box Theatre. Ella Elkoni, senior biology and marine biology double major, and Tallulah Powers, junior dance and neuroscience double major, co-chaired the Shark Talent Performance Committee. Elkoni said that organizing the showcase gave her a new perspective on the level of work that goes into a production. “I’ve definitely done smaller shows, but this is, this is a step up for me in terms of organizing,” Elkoni said. “It’s very hard to really appreciate it until you’re doing it.” The planning began in August, when Elkoni and Powers started organizing the interest meetings, reserving rehearsal spaces and preparing promotional materials. Elkoni said that coordinating the schedules of performers and technical crew members required more work than she initially expected. “Someone had to put together this list of time slots for tech. Someone had to decide what order the show is going to go in,” Elkoni said. “There’s a lot of work

that goes on behind the scenes.” During tech week, performers worked with lighting and sound operators to adjust their pieces for the stage. Powers said that seeing the performances with costumes, lighting and sound brought a different level of excitement to the students. “By the time tech week comes around and we start to see the full costumes and the lights on stage, normally you get that little bit more excitement with it and they will generally put a little bit more energy,” she said. “We like to see that extra boost of stage presence where everything looks more confident.” Powers said their main goal was for the performers to feel like their time preparing for the showcase was worthwhile. “We know every group spends many hours outside of our checkpoints and tech rehearsing on their own,” Powers said. “If they feel fulfilled in their desire to perform, then I feel like we’ve done our job.”

Briana Czelusniak, sophomore exercise and sport science major, performs “If Only For A Moment” during dress rehearsal.

ARTS

Spotlight: Victoria Velez brings her dance studio dreams to life By Alexandria Munroe When Victoria Velez, senior dance major, began planning for her own dance studio at 16, she knew she wanted to create a space where dancers of all backgrounds and skill levels could express themselves. Now, at age 21, Velez is building VicStar Studios while finishing her degree at NSU. The studio offers dance and fitness classes for children and adults, with Velez teaching in rented spaces. Velez began dancing at 2 years old and trained in several styles, including ballet, jazz, hip-hop and tap. She said dance became an outlet for her during difficult times. “No matter what was happening at home or what was happening in school, I was still able to go somewhere, express myself and be amazing

PHOTOS BY ALEXANDRIA MUNROE

at it,” Velez said. “I just really saw it as my outlet because of that.” Velez said that her experiences growing up as a young Black girl of Puerto Rican and Haitian descent inspired her to create an inclusive space where students can be accepted regardless of their backgrounds. “A lot of the time, if I went on a team that was mainly Caucasian people, they felt like I didn’t fit in there. But then if I went on a team that was mainly just Black or Caribbean people, they felt like I didn’t fit in there either,” she said. “I always wanted to just open up a place that people like me, like Black girls and mixed girls, can go in and feel special and wanted.” Velez said these experiences influenced her approach to teaching. She said she wants her students to feel supported through their personal challenges while developing their skills as dancers.

“I just want to be a good role model and show my dancers that it doesn’t matter if you’ve gone through the worst thing in the world or the best thing in the world,” Velez said. “You can still be an honest and humble person and you can still learn dance.” Aysia Frett, sophomore biology major, attended a heels class taught by Velez. She said that Velez’s approach to teaching helped her feel confident trying a new style. “I love the way she corrects you in the nicest way, or most encouraging way, ” Frett said. “She made me feel very comfortable, even though I was doing something out of my comfort zone.” Frett also said Velez stands out as a dance instructor because of her willingness to experiment with choreography. “I feel like sometimes when it comes to choreography, people want to keep it safe,” she said. “I really like that she takes

Victoria Velez, senior dance major and owner of VicStar Studios, teaches a heels dance class to NSU students.

risks with her choreography and with her creativity.” As a fellow dancer, Frett said watching Velez work on building VicStar Studios has encouraged her to be more confident in sharing her own work. “Sometimes I might be nervous to post a video of myself dancing, but I think watching Victoria has helped my confidence in going out and promoting yourself and putting yourself out there,” she said. Velez hopes she can open a permanent location for VicStar Studios and offer competitive dance training after graduation. She said that she looks forward to seeing her plan since high school come to life. “I’m just so excited to be able to walk around the dance studio in my high heels,” Velez said. “I just see myself being like, ‘oh my God, I can’t believe I did it.’”

October 29, 2026

‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’ returns to Miniaci PAC for two nights By Alexandria Munroe “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” is returning to the Rose and Alfred Miniaci Performing Arts Center on Oct. 30 and 31 at 8 p.m. The production will feature 11 NSU students and alumni acting alongside the film as it plays on screen. The show returns on Oct. 31 to the Miniaci PAC after last year’s sold-out performance, which brought more than 400 attendees to the theater. Gustavo Padrino, general manager of the Miniaci PAC, said the success of last year’s production made them add a second night. “This year, the show on the 30th is already sold out, so we ended up opening a second show on the 31st,” he said. “And this is only the second year, so hopefully we’re going to do it a third year.” Tickets can be purchased on the Miniaci PAC website or through

Ticketmaster for $32. NSU students, faculty and staff can also purchase $15 tickets at the door with their SharkCard before the show, subject to availability. Nadia D’Orazio, senior entrepreneurship major, is returning as one of the show’s co-directors and cast members. She said the biggest change from last year’s show is the new set pieces and costumes. “We’re getting set pieces built, which is something new this year, and we’re going to have really fun costumes,” D’Orazio said. “Instead of having our own makeshift things, which was what we had to do last year, we’re using our budget to upgrade the quality of the things within the show.” D’Orazio said that returning as a co-director has given her more confidence in her position. She said she has a better understanding of her responsibilities as co-director. “Last year was my first time really directing anything, so I think just going into it with more confidence

has helped our production a lot,” she said. “This year, I feel like it’s been way easier to be more authoritative in the role.” D’Orazio said that the popularity of last year’s show allowed the directors to offer auditions for this year’s production. She said the number of people who auditioned led them to expand the cast. “It got to a point where we didn’t know who to cut or keep because we wanted everybody to do it,” she said. “So we thought it would be really cool to incorporate an ensemble this year.” Jade Gomez, senior theatre major, is also a cast member and co-directing after performing in last year’s show. She said that working with D’Orazio and the cast has changed her perspective on directing. “It’s a very rewarding experience because not only do you get to put your imagination out there and your points of view and creativity, but you also get to bond and really be present in the moment with the actors,” Gomez said.

Gomez said she hopes the show’s theme of individuality and acceptance will resonate with the audience. “The biggest thing is to be proud of who you are. I feel like that’s the message that [The Rocky Horror Picture Show] in general brings,” she said. “It embraces every aspect of humanity when it comes to gender, your identity, or what you want to be in life.”

Dates: Oct. 30 - Oct. 31 Time: 8 p.m. Location: Rose & Alfred Miniaci Performing Arts Center Scan the QR code for more information:

SCIENCE AND HEALTH

Coordinated effort tackles seasonal flooding on NSU campuses By Samiksha Chemukula and Irvin Harrell At Nova Southeastern University, the challenges for students do not stop inside the classroom. During the fall rain season, getting to class can often mean wading through floodwaters. “Walking to class during heavy rains means soaked jeans and wet shoes,” Angel Griffith, senior neuroscience major, said. “The flooded sidewalks make it difficult to get to class.” To manage the water woes, it takes a coordinated effort. NSU’s Office of Public Safety maintains an elaborate drainage network consisting of grassy depressions that trap rainwater, an underground pipe system that moves the rain, and a lake connected to canals that also provide flooding relief. But when the downpours come, nothing is foolproof. “We already had flooded streets, and we thought it would be unsafe for students,” Daniel J. Alfonso, executive vice president for Facilities Management, Public Safety, and Business Services, said. During a recent campus tour, Alfonso pointed out low-lying areas designed to collect water before it reaches roads and buildings. What might look like landscaping on a dry day becomes part of the university’s flood protection during a storm. Keeping the flood protection system functioning requires

regular maintenance and monitoring, Alfonso says. Crews remove leaves, dirt and litter from drains before the rainy season. When heavy rains overwhelm access routes, NSU officials consider forecasts, existing flooding and ground saturation before deciding whether to close classes. Notifications to the NSU community are disseminated through NSU Alert and SaferWatch. NSU’s Oceanographic Campus in Dania Beach not only faces heavy rains but also a phenomenon commonly known as king tide. A king tide is a popular, nonscientific term often used to describe exceptionally high tides, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Tides are long-period waves that roll around the planet as the ocean is “pulled” back and forth by the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun as these bodies interact with the Earth in their monthly and yearly orbits. Todd Ehret, an oceanographer with NOAA, explained that king tides occur when a new or full moon coincides with the moon’s closest approach to Earth, producing unusually high tidal ranges. These predictable tidal conditions can create flooding problems for coastal communities, including Dania Beach. “King tides are a recurring seasonal challenge for Broward County’s coastal communities, including Dania Beach,” Clay Pacheco, director of the Broward

COURTESY OF NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY OFFICE OF FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

County Office of Emergency Management, said. “The intensity of flooding can vary from one hightide cycle to another, depending on tidal levels, wind direction, ocean conditions, rainfall and the capacity of local drainage systems.” Flooding from rain and king tides has often cut off road access to the Oceanographic Campus, forcing closures even when campus buildings remained dry, Alfonso said. Although king tides are predictable, rising sea levels make their effects increasingly concerning. Ehret explained that higher baseline water levels increase the frequency of coastal flooding over time. Preparing for these conditions requires cooperation beyond the university. Pacheco said his emergency management team works with NSU, Davie and Dania Beach to monitor forecasts and coordinate preparations. “The astronomical processes that produce king tides are normal and predictable. However, the impacts of those tides are becoming a greater concern for coastal communities as sea levels rise,” Pacheco said. “Higher baseline water levels can mean that a tide that previously caused little disruption may now contribute to street flooding, drainage problems or water reaching farther inland. It is also important to recognize that not every year or tide cycle will produce the same level of impact. Wind, rainfall, coastal

A car drives through a flooded residential street in Davie after heavy rainstorms swept across South Florida in November 2023.

conditions and local infrastructure all influence the outcome.” Another challenge lies beneath South Florida’s surface, where porous limestone allows water to move underground. Part of the problem with combatting coastal flooding issues lies beneath the surface, Associate Professor Robert Smith, NSU’s vice president for research and economic development, said. South Florida’s porous limestone allows rainwater to soak underground, he said. Near the coast, it can also allow seawater to move inland below ground and contribute to flooding from below. Torrential rains combine with tidal flooding causing what’s called compound flooding. Smith is investigating whether bacteria can help fill underground gaps with limestone, reinforcing seawalls and reducing water movement through those spaces. His plan is to eventually field test his research and work to develop an alternative way to ensure coastal resilience. “I think that the biggest challenge is just getting this right,” Smith said. While researchers test possible solutions, floodwater remains a safety concern. Alfonso recalled asking students to leave a flooded retention area near the University Center in 2023 because of potential hazards beneath the water. Smith’s advice was direct. “It’s not clean,” he said. “Stay out of the water.”

October 29, 2026

FROM THE FRONT

CRUTCHFIELD COURTESY OF NSU ATHLETICS

NSU’s head coach of men’s basketball Jim Crutchfield is interviewed after the Sharks’ 76-66 victory over Black Hills State University in the NCAA Division II Elite Eight in Pittsburgh on March 25.

Crutchfield came to Broward County in March 2017 to become head coach of Nova Southeastern University’s men’s basketball program. Prior to Crutchfield’s hire, NSU men’s basketball finished the season with a record of 6-20. Since then, Crutchfield has built NSU basketball into a dynasty, winning two NCAA Division II national championships in both 2023 and 2025. The 2023 team is the first and only undefeated team in NSU men’s basketball history, finishing the season with a record of 36-0. In addition to these previous two championships, Crutchfield has coached men’s basketball to four straight NCAA Division II Final Four appearances, and a NCAA Division II record of 105 consecutive home wins. “What has happened here is an honor bestowed upon me because of the success Nova Southeastern has had over the last 10 years. I know I’m

the main one going into the hall of fame, but it’s about Nova Southeastern basketball, everybody involved, from the staff to the players. It’s been a group project,” Crutchfield said. Associate Head Men’s Basketball Coach Nick Smith was a freshman during Crutchfield’s first season as NSU’s head basketball coach (201718). NSU achieved its first winning season (17-10) that year with Smith as a key contributor. Smith later joined Crutchfield’s coaching staff for the undefeated 2022-23 season. “I was in Coach Crutchfield’s first class as a player, so just to see how much this university has grown, the athletics, and the fan base supporting us. We used to play in front of a couple hundred fans and now to see the Rick Case Arena with a few thousand fans,” Smith said. “It shows how much of an impact he’s made to the basketball program and to athletics as a whole.”

Another former player, Ryan Davis, will be joining the coaching staff as assistant head coach for the 20262027 season. Davis played under Crutchfield for four straight seasons from 2022 to 2026. In his time as a player, Davis became NSU’s all-time wins leader in program history with 117 wins. “I couldn’t think of a guy deserving it more than him to be honest. What I like about Crutchfield the most is how he finds out how to talk to each player and get the best out of their game,” Davis said. “He doesn’t treat every guy the same. He figures out how to get relationships with them and whenever a guy comes here, their game goes to a different level.” Dr. Harry K. Moon, president and CEO of Nova Southeastern University, is proud of Crutchfield’s success and the influence he has had on the university.

“His impact extends far beyond the scoreboard. He has fostered a culture of integrity, leadership and academic success that elevates our entire university community. This Hall of Fame honor is a well-deserved recognition of his extraordinary legacy,” Moon said in a statement provided to The Current. His Broward County Sports Hall of Fame induction now cements his legacy in Broward County. “I think the impact he has left here in Broward County in such a short amount of time, he will always see this as a second home,” Smith said. Crutchfield will begin his ninth season as head coach on Nov. 13, when NSU men’s basketball faces the University of Montevallo in Huntsville, Ala.

Buchanan leading the Sharks, scoring 18 points each.

Ewa Sikora made six saves to help preserve the tie.

in points.

Men’s swimming, Oct. 24 The men’s team defeated Rollins College 182-78 at Alfond Pool in Winter Park. Eleven different Sharks earned victories across 12 events, including 10 individual wins and two relay victories.

Women’s volleyball, Oct. 24 The volleyball team closed its five-match road trip with a 3-0 win over Saint Leo. Dana Gibbons recorded a season-high with eight total blocks.

Sports Shorts By Constanza Andujar

Women’s cross-country, Oct. 24 The women’s cross country team competed at UAH Chargers XC Invitational at John Hunt Park in Huntsville, Alabama, finishing ninth in the women’s 6k race. Jordan Stygar placed 40th in 21:57.7 closely followed by Alayna Stewart in 43rd at 22:02.0. Men’s cross-country, Oct. 24 The men’s cross country team finished 21st in the men’s 8k race at UAH Chargers XC Invitational at John Hunt Park in Huntsville, Alabama. The Sharks were led by Andrew Youssef who finished 47th with a time of 24:47.9. Women’s swimming, Oct. 24 The No. 1 women’s swimming team earned its third consecutive win of the season, defeating Rollins College 206-55 at Alfond Pool in Winter Park. The Sharks won all 14 events, with Nika Tomic, Kristina Orban, Caprice Schlueter and Bree

Men’s soccer, Oct. 24 NSU’s men’s soccer team lost 2-1 to the University of Tampa on the road for the Sunshine State Conference. Erik Krohnstad gave the Sharks a first-half lead, but Tampa answered with two goals to win the match. Women’s soccer, Oct. 24 The women’s soccer team finished 1-1 against the University of Tampa at home in Sunshine State Conference play. Genesis Hernandez scored NSU’s only goal from the penalty spot, while goalkeeper

Men’s swimming, Oct. 23 The men’s swimming team competed against the defending NCAA Division II national champions, losing 183-70 to the University of Tampa. In Tampa, Alex Ochsenbein led the team, winning the 200-yard breaststroke, as Ethan Baylin recorded NSU’s other individual win in the 50-yard freestyle. Women’s swimming, Oct. 23 NSU’s women’s swimming team defeated the University of Tampa 137-125 in Tampa. Kristina Orban won the four events she competed in, leading the Sharks

Women’s volleyball, Oct. 23 NSU’s volleyball team fell 3-0 to Eckerd College in St. Petersburg in its fourth consecutive road match. Natalya Bergant stood out with six kills and two blocks, while Macy Lentz and Taylor Teaman each recorded 10 digs. Men’s soccer, Oct. 21 The men’s soccer team lost 2-1 on the road against Saint Leo for the Sunshine State Conference. Eduardo Fontan Rodriguez scored for the Sharks in the 85th minute, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Saint Leo’s two first-half goals. Women’s soccer, Oct. 21 NSU’s No. 10 women’s soccer team earned a 1-0 victory at home against Saint Leo. Kristina Syragakis scored the only goal of the game in the 74th minute to secure the Sunshine State Conference win.

EVENTS CALENDAR NOVEMBER MONDAY

TUESDAY

10 WEDNESDAY

11 THURSDAY

12 FRIDAY

Bleed Shark Blue Pep Rally Pre-Waivers Noon - Don Taft University Center, Spine Bleed Shark Blue Pep Rally 6 p.m. - Rick Case Arena

SATURDAY

Homecoming Bash and Royalty Crowning 8 p.m. - Amerant Bank Field (FTL United Soccer Complex) The Sharpe Family Singers Present The Best of Broadway 7:30 p.m. - Rose & Alfred Miniaci Performing Arts Center

35th Annual Anything that Floats Raft Race 4 p.m. - Gold Circle Lake WEDNESDAY

Music for the Season Noon - Alvin Sherman Library, Cotilla Gallery

FRIDAY

Fin Films Movie Night 6 p.m. - Carl DeSantis Building, Room 1047

18 Homecoming Tailgate Pre-Waivers Noon - Don Taft University Center, Spine The Reel - KPop Demon Hunters 6 p.m. - Mailman-Hollywood Auditorium Fraternity and Sorority Life Homecoming Stroll Off 7 p.m. - Rick Case Arena

Dance Works 7:30 p.m. - Rose & Alfred Miniaci Performing Arts Center

Block Painting Art Festival Noon - Alvin Sherman Library Quad Homecoming Tailgate Pre-Waivers Noon - Don Taft University Center, Spine

SATURDAY

Dance Works 7:30 p.m. - Rose & Alfred Miniaci Performing Arts Center

Homecoming Parade Noon - Don Taft University Center, Shark Fountain Homecoming Tailgate 5 p.m. - Mailman-Hollywood Parking Lot PEACE Concert: Celebrate the Season 7:30 p.m. - Rose & Alfred Miniaci Performing Arts Center

SATURDAY

Swan Lake - Symphony of Lights 7 p.m. - Rose & Alfred Miniaci Performing Arts Center

MATH CORNER Please send your answer (no need to send any additional scratch work or justification) to Dr. Jason Gershman, chair of the Department of Mathematics, at jgershma@nova.edu no later than 5 p.m. on Wednesday, November 18. The correct answer to this question will appear in the next issue of The Current in the fall semester. All members of the NSU community are invited to submit their answer and participate. Every member of the NSU community who submits at least one answer during the 2026-2027 school year will be invited to attend a celebration in April as part of Mathematics and Statistics Awareness Month. In a Math Club meeting, there are 24 students in attendance. One-half are seniors, one-third are juniors, and the rest are freshmen. A committee of 5 officers will be chosen randomly of those in attendance, consisting of 2 seniors, 2 juniors, and 1 freshman. How many different committees can be chosen? Answer to the question from the last issue: Answer: 2/9 (for a detailed solution please contact jgershma@nova.edu)

CROSSWORD PUZZLE 1

5 7

DOWN: 1. This showcase is being hosted by _____ ______. 2. An evil unicorn arrives for Halloween. 4. Students from this organization to compete at regional climate summit. 5. _______ Velez brings her dance studio dreams to life. 7. A coordinated effort is tackling this seasonal issue.

LET’S ASK THE AUDIENCE...

ACROSS: 3. Jim ___________ inducted into the 2026 Broward County Sports Hall of Fame. 6. ________ Gardens has worked to protect South Florida’s natural habitats and wildlife. 8. NSU Adds Saint David Catholic Church stop to weekend _______ route. 9. This “Horror Picture Show” is returning to Miniaci PAC for two nights. 10. October 31st celebration.

BY LILA TARICCO