The Current Volume 35 Issue 10

FEATURES | p. 7 Vinyl Destination: where music and community meet

THURSDAY

MARCH 13, 2025

ARTS | p. 10 Fauré and Friends: a French-themed noontime recital

SPORTS | p. 14

NSU Softball makes history at West Alabama game

THE CURRENT

VOLUME 35 ISSUE 10

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

Sharks win fourth consecutive SSC title and set new record

COURTESY OF NSU ATHLETICS

Men’s basketball team, NSU Athletics staff and President Harry K. Moon with the SSC trophy.

By Bella Giaquinto The men’s basketball team won its fourth-consecutive Sunshine State Conference tournament title and broke the 30-year long NCAA Division II record for consecutive home court victories on March 9. The 103-89 win against Florida Southern College brought

the Sharks to 81 consecutive home wins, surpassing Jefferson University, which has held the record since 1995 with 80 wins.

During the historic game, SSC Player of the Year MJ Iraldi recorded 27 points, Dallas Graziani recorded 23 points and his 15th double-double of the season, and Ryker Cisarik recorded 20

COURTESY OF NSU ATHLETICS

MJ Iraldi, SSC Player of the Year and fifth-year interdisciplinary studies major, runs across the court to score against Florida Southern College.

points and his sixth double-double of the season, with all three named to the SSC All-Tournament team.

For the NCAA South Region Tournament on March 15, the Sharks will host seven teams from the SSC, Gulf South Conference, and Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. Competing in the tournament is the University

of Alabama in Huntsville, Valdosta State University, Florida Southern College, Lynn University, University of Montevallo, University of Tampa, and Savannah State University. The winner will advance to the NCAA Division II Elite Eight in Evansville, Ind., starting on March 25 and running through March 29.

Celebrating Herstory with Women’s History Month at NSU

By Hannah Krebsbach

PHOTO BY MARLEE CARD

(From left) Darien Lovett, Rita Shea-Van Fossen and Germaine Smith-Baugh speak at the “A Taste for Power” panel during the “Creating our Wildest Dreams” event on March 8.

In an effort to spotlight Women’s History Month, NSU will host several events to honor and support women.

In 1987, March was declared “Women’s History Month” to acknowledge the plights of women and celebrate their contributions to society.

NSU is home to many different women’s clubs and organizations.

Emma Weinstein, junior neuroscience major, is the founder and president of the Women in Surgery club on campus. Weinstein founded the club to create an inclusive space.

“I really wanted to capitalize on distinguishing the profession and making it an empowering place for young women to come grow together,” Weinstein said.

Weinstein wanted to show women that they are able to accomplish the same things as men, especially in

a male-dominated field, such as medicine.

“There are not professions that should necessarily be a woman or a man’s profession. It should just be a profession,” Weinstein said.

Vanessa Noroña, junior public health major, is the social media and marketing chair for both the NSU Club Dance Team and NSU Christian Medical & Dental Association.

“The purpose of this month is to reflect on what women have done throughout history and to work towards gender equality,” Noroña said.

Both of these organizations will be collaborating to host the Women’s Craft Night event where women are invited to make bookmarks.

The event takes place on March 13 at 6:30 p.m. in the Carl DeSantis Building, room 2065.

See WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH, page 4

2

EDITORIAL | March 13, 2025

The Current

THE CURRENT The Student-Run Newspaper of Nova Southeastern University Located in the Don Taft University Center Room 328 @makonews / makomedia.nova.edu NEWSROOM

Phone: 954-262-8455 makonews@nova.edu Bryce Johnson Editor-in-Chief Brielle Aguayo Art Director/ Senior Photo Journalist and Reporter Nicole Gomez Graphic Designer Bella Giaquinto Sports Editor

BUSINESS & ADVERTISING

Phone: 954-262-8455 thecurrentad@nova.edu Kai Dear Business Manager Liv Zolk Distribution Manager Amaia Flores Social Media Manager Yasmin De Andrade Rodrigues Assistant Social Media Manager

Isabella Fernandez de Cueto Assistant Sports Editor

Chris Delboni Mako Media Network Director

Marlee Card Reporter/Music Editor

Mike Lynn Mako Media Network Assistant Director

Sneha Subhash Health Writer Luqman Gbenro Reporter Antonio Miguel Escorzon Reporter

Dr. Megan Fitzgerald Mako Media Network Faculty Adviser Joyce Moed The Current Faculty Adviser

Anaum Hussain Reporter

Dr. Mario D'Agostino Sports Desk Adviser

Hannah Krebsbach Reporter

Dr. Aarti Raja Science/Health Desk Adviser

Tina Valdovinos Multimedia Journalist

Roseline Jean-Pierre Photo Journalist Madison Kasper Reporter/ Visual Journalist

Letter from the editor Dear Readers, Hello Sharks! Welcome to another issue of The Current, NSU’s student-run newspaper. My name is Bryce, and I’m excited for you to see everything we have in store.

I hope you enjoyed your spring break. Whether you stayed local or took a vacation, you deserved the opportunity to rest. With spring break over, we’re now halfway done with the semester. We’ll be in April before you know it, so I encourage you to make the most of the remainder of the semester.

March is Women’s History Month, a chance to honor and highlight women’s contributions. Many events will celebrate the month, including Voices & Victories: Women’s History Chat & Chew, on March 24 at noon in the Carl DeSantis Building, room 3000. There will also be an event where students can learn about women’s global impact on March 27 at 12:30 p.m. in the UC Spine.

March 14 is Pi Day, and the Department of Mathematics and the Math Club will host a celebration outside the Parker Building at noon, where they will try to form a human circle to measure the approximate value of Pi. The event will also have free pizza and pie.

St. Patrick’s Day is March 17, and The Wharf Fort Lauderdale at Las Olas will host a celebration with music and games on March 15 at

noon. Additionally, the Carousel Club in Hallandale Beach will also host a celebration on March 15 at noon with music.

The Current, alongside Mako TV and Mako Radio, is part of Mako Media Network. If you have questions, comments, concerns or story pitches, you can find us in the UC in room 328.

Thanks again for checking out our newspaper. I know everyone at The Current appreciates your trust in us to tell your stories, and we are dedicated to bringing you the best paper we can. Be sure to look out for our next issue on March 27.

Happy reading, Bryce Johnson

2025 SEASON HIGHLIGHTS

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

MARCH 15 AN ACOUSTIC EVENING WITH MATISYAHU

Allen Worrell Web Editor The Current serves Nova Southeastern University from its location in room 328 of the Don Taft University Center. The Current is NSU’s established vehicle for student reporting. All community members are invited to contribute.

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 or other advertisers. The Current will not publish unsigned letters except under special

Bryce Johnson, editor-in-chief of The Current

MARCH 22

APRIL 11

FOOZ FIGHTERS

FUSHU DAIKO'S 35TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT

FOO FIGHTERS TRIBUTE BAND

THE RHYTHM OF NATURE

circumstances at the discretion of the Editor-in-Chief. The Current reserves the right to edit.

Contributing writers must not be directly involved with their coverage. Coverage by contributing writers must be meaningful and of interest to the NSU community. The Current reserves the right to edit, publish or deny submitted works as it sees fit. The Current shall remain free of associations and activities that may compromise integrity or damage credibility or otherwise create bias, real or perceived.

APRIL 26

MAY 10

MAY 11

UPTOWN:

BRAZILIAN VOICES "QUIET BOSSA"

A MOTHER'S DAY CELEBRATION

A CELEBRATION OF MOTOWN AND SOUL

Save $10 Off Tickets for NSU Staff, Faculty, and Students to Select Shows!

Unlock code ''NSU'' before selecting tickets. Discount availability varies by show.

For more information visit: www.MiniaciPAC.com @MiniaciPAC

NEWS | March 13, 2025

The Current

3

Miami Film Festival announces 2025 lineup of films

By Bryce Johnson The annual Miami Film Festival will run from April 3 to 13.

Lauren Cohen, director of programming, and James Woolley, executive director, announced this year’s program, which includes film showcases, discussions and award presentations, on March 5 at Mayfair House Hotel & Garden.

“This has been a lot of work for

everybody. We are thrilled with the final product. We have done so much this last year to make Miami Film Festival shine,” Woolley said.

The festival will have a showing of “Another Simple Favor,” the sequel to “A Simple Favor” starring Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick, on April 6 at 7 p.m. in Regal South Beach.

Paul Feig, director of “Another Simple Favor,” also directed “Bridesmaids” and several episodes of “The Office,” “Arrested Development” and “Parks and Recreation.” After the showing of “Another Simple Favor,” Feig will record a live episode of the “Happy Sad Confused” podcast.

Billy Zane, known for his roles in “Back to the Future” and “Titanic,” will attend on April 4 at 6:30 p.m. in Regal South Beach, where the festival will screen his latest film, “Waltzing with Brando.”

Melanie Lynskey will have a conversation about her career and receive the Precious GEM Award

on April 12 at 1 p.m. at Miami Dade College’s Wolfson Campus.

Lynskey has previously starred in “Yellowjackets,” “The Last of Us,” “Don’t Look Up,” “Two and a Half Men” and “Shattered Glass.”

The festival will have the world premiere of “Chirino” and “Ethan Bloom.” It also features the east coast premiere of “Oh, Hi!” directed by Sophie Brooks, on April 5 at 2:45 p.m. in Regal South Beach.

“It just world premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, and was one of my absolute favorite movies that I saw,” Cohen said.

Directors like Jorge Soliño, Julie Delpy, Roger Ross Williams and Julia Stiles will make appearances at the festival.

The festival will include “La La Land” film concerts with a live orchestra at the Adrienne Arsht Center on April 9 and 10 at 7:30 p.m., a showing of “On Swift Horses” on April 12 at 7 p.m. in the Olympia Theater, and showings of

“The Wedding Banquet” on April 12 at 3 p.m. in Regal South Beach and April 13 at 3:30 p.m. at O Cinema.

“We have nearly 200 films in the lineup this year,” Cohen said.

For more information: Scan the QR code to learn more about Miami Dade College’s 42nd annual Miami Film Festival.

Alumni Spotlight

AMANDA CONDE B.B.A. (‘23), M.B.A. (’24) From undergraduate, to student entrepreneur, to graduate student, to now at Morgan Stanley, come and ask your questions of Amanda’s academic & professional journey which all began with NSU’s H. Wayne Huizenga College of Business & Entrepreneurship.

Wednesday, March 26, 2025 6:00 PM Knight Auditorium (Carl DeSantis building, 1124)

4

NEWS | March 13, 2025

The Current

FROM THE FRONT

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH “We wanted to create a space so that all the women can come together in a safe space where they are able to express themselves creatively,” Noroña said.

There are many other organizations and clubs that work together to host events on campus throughout the month.

“Voices & Victories: Women’s History Chat & Chew” will take place from noon to 1 p.m. on March 24 in the Carl DeSantis Building, room 3000, and it will be followed by “I’m Every Woman: Womanhood Through a Global Lens,” taking place on March 27 from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. in the Don Taft University Spine.

This event will be followed by “I’m Every Woman: Womanhood Through a Global Lens,” on March 27 from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. in the Don Taft University Spine.

Women in Surgery and the NSU Club Dance Team are just a few of the organizations on campus aiming to bring awareness to the struggles of others as well as highlight the importance of Women’s History Month.

“Women’s History Month stands for everything that women are constantly fighting for. People need to recognize that women can do anything that men can do,” Weinstein said.

PHOTO BY MARLEE CARD

Tammy Patterson, holistic wellness coach, gives a “Mindfulness and Breathwork” workshop during the “Creating Our Wildest Dreams” event on March 8.

USGA to start election events

By Antonio Miguel Escorzon The Undergraduate Student Government Association is hosting election events for its upcoming administration. Its Meet the Candidates events will be in the UC Spine on March 25 at 12:30 p.m. and April 2 at noon. Its Presidential Debate will take place in the Carl DeSantis Building Knight Auditorium on March 31 at 6 p.m.

Arun Jagarlamudi, senior biology major and executive vice president for the 37th NSU USGA, said the Meet the Candidates Tabling Event gives more opportunities for parties to spread awareness about their platforms, goals and initiatives.

Jagarlamudi said when he was running in previous elections, he felt they were very social events, such as candidates hosting boba drink giveaways, to attract attention.

Jagarlamudi said the event also typically has a slideshow that includes the candidates’ goals.

Suraj Doobay, senior political science major and USGA court justice

officer, said it can get students acclimated and acquainted with the candidates.

“This can allow students to connect with each one of the candidates, talk about their issues and what really matters to them,” Doobay said. “It also allows the candidates to hear the voices of the students to better form their campaign to be molded into the interest of the students and for the students.”

Jagarlamudi said the Presidential Debate will give voters opportunities to see what the prospective president, executive vice president and chief financial officer have envisioned for what their party wants to do.

Varun Jagarlamudi, senior public health major, a USGA court justice officer and Arun Jagarlamudi’s brother, said all parties and independent candidates, as well those campaigning for president, executive vice president and chief financial officer, will be on stage and asked questions by a moderator and student panel.

“The candidates will answer the questions and it gives the candidates

an opportunity, a platform to voice their concerns, what their party or individual person is running for, their values, beliefs and changes they want to make on campus,” Varun Jagarlamudi said.

Arun Jagarlamudi believes USGA represents all undergraduate students and said it listens to complaints, concerns, ideas and initiatives that students want to bring attention to.

“Our main goal is to represent all the dynamic student body and make sure we are that voice for that change,” Arun Jagarlamudi said.

Doobay believes that when students vote in the USGA elections, their concerns are raised through a democratic process wherein they elect candidates.

“Ultimately, the Undergraduate Student Government Association is a group of students who represent their fellow undergraduate bodies, whether it be through your year or the college you belong to, or if you’re a residential or commuter student,” Doobay said. “We have these

COURTESY OF ARUN JAGARLAMUDI

The “Shark Surge” party hosts a meet and greet tabling event to campaign for votes and hear concerns from students.

positions within the undergraduate student government [which] are there to make sure that everyone’s voice is heard.”

Sexual assault reported in Mako Hall

By Bryce Johnson A former NSU student was arrested in November 2024 after he sexually assaulted two people in his dorm room on separate occasions. According to the Davie police

reports, the incidents occurred on Oct. 12 and Sept. 7.

The Office of Facilities Management released an official statement on Feb. 27 condemning his actions and providing several resources for people in need. Students can reach

the Title IX Office at titleIX@nova. edu and nova.edu/title-ix. They can contact Public Safety at 954-2628999, as well as the Davie Police Department at 954-693-8200 for non-emergencies. positions within the undergraduate

student government [which] are there to make sure that everyone’s voice is heard.”

FEATURES | March 13, 2025

The Current

5

Daniel J. Alfonso: from veteran and city manager to vice president

By Bryce Johnson As the executive vice president for Facilities Management, Public Safety, and Business Services, Daniel J. Alfonso manages the facilities at NSU and NSU University School, whether it’s making sure the toilets are working properly, adding pickleball courts on campus or building new dining venues in the Terry Administration Building.

“We have a lot of great people doing a lot of great things. My vision is that when somebody comes onto this campus, they look at it and say, ‘wow, that campus is as good as the pictures I saw online,’” Alfonso said.

Stefanie La Manna, dean of the Ron and Kathy Assaf College of Nursing, said Alfonso was instrumental in implementing a nursing research center at NSU’s Miramar campus.

“There was a room that I saw in the Miramar campus. He came up there, he looked at it and was able to help me put different things there to make it look like a research center. So he facilitated the vision that I had,” La Manna said.

Alfonso moved to the United States from Cuba in 1979 when he was 11 years old. His father, who was a political prisoner, had the option of staying in prison in Cuba or moving to the United States with his family.

Alfonso came to Miami with his father, mother, two brothers and one sister. He is the second oldest of his siblings.

“I was blessed enough that through family, friends and the Catholic Church, we were able to get into a school called St. John’s Elementary School, which is a private school. And my mom would work in the kitchen area in the school to offset tuition,” Alfonso said.

Afterward, Alfonso attended Miami Springs Senior High School.

He met his wife, Claudia, at that time. He was 14 years old.

“I met her, not in my school, but through a Catholic group. We had a youth group at the church that I

went to, St. John the Apostle Catholic School in Hialeah,” Alfonso said.

After he graduated, Alfonso served five-and-a-half years in the United States military.

“I was in Frankfurt, Germany, when the Berlin Wall came down. So in 1989, I was serving in Germany. It was the end of my tenure there. That was pretty spectacular to be there and witness Eastern Europe and Western Europe coming together,” Alfonso said.

Daniel and Claudia Alfonso got married when he was 18 and she was 19. She went with him to Europe.

When they came back to the United States, Alfonso went to Saudi Arabia as a cavalry scout in the 24th Infantry Division and participated in the Gulf War. Alfonso said his time in the Army gave him structure and the opportunity to learn leadership, especially in Saudi Arabia.

“I was a cavalry scout, which means that I am in the front of the division. I’m going to be one of the first ones to encounter the enemy.

So at 22 years old, I thought, ‘this is a real possibility that this is it for Danny Alfonso,’” Alfonso said.

“Anything else in my life that has occurred after that, I’ve always thought about it and said, ‘well, it’s not that bad.’”

When Alfonso’s wife was pregnant, he left the military and attended Miami-Dade Community College, which has been renamed to Miami Dade College since 2003. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration and master’s in finance at Florida International University.

While still in college, he worked at the family business in Homestead, selling linen and curtains. The business didn’t survive the destruction of Hurricane Andrew. Later, he worked as a revenue collector for Miami-Dade County’s transit system.

“By 2001, I had already obtained my master’s degree. And then I started moving up in the ranks of Miami-Dade County. I left transit,

COURTESY OF NSU

Daniel J. Alfonso, executive vice president for Facilities Management, Public Safety, and Business Services.

PHOTO BY BRYCE JOHNSON

(From left) Daniel J. Alfonso, executive vice president for Facilities Management, Public Safety, and Business Services, talks to Travis Searle, special events coordinator.

and I went to the county budget office,” Alfonso said.

From 2011 to 2013, Alfonso was the budget director for the City of Miami. From 2014 to 2018, he was the city manager.

“I was hired by the City of Miami Commission, along with the mayor, to run the city of Miami. That means that you’re in charge of police, fire, public works, parks department, planning, zoning and the entirety of the operation of the city,” Alfonso said.

Before he left his role as city manager, Alfonso’s team passed a $400-million bond. Citizens voted to tax themselves, so that the city of Miami could develop resiliency projects relating to economic development, sea level rising and affordable housing.

“The complexity of running that city prepared me really well for coming and trying to help Nova Southeastern University, which is in a sense a small city,” Alfonso said.

“We’re 300 acres. We have building and construction, we have a physical plant operations, we have our own public safety department.”

In December 2017, Alfonso came to NSU. For two weeks, he worked at NSU and as Miami’s city manager.

Former NSU President George L. Hanbury II, who is also the former city manager of Fort Lauderdale, encouraged him to work at NSU. “When I met with him for the interview, we had a good relationship. We talked a little bit about how our experiences in city government could transfer to how to run a university or how to run the facilities in the university, which is what he hired me for,” Alfonso said.

Alfonso started working at NSU roughly around the same time as Gerard Wheeler, executive director of Student Experience.

“He’s very passionate about his work, passionate about students, his employees. He’s very much that person. He doesn’t do anything on level zero, everything is a hundred and more,” Wheeler said.

In 2024, Alfonso earned his Ed.D. at NSU in Organizational Leadership. He said it was a good experience being both a student and leader at NSU. “The professors are there to guide you more than anything in the right direction. I appreciated the many professors here at Nova Southeastern University who helped me. It was a little awkward sometimes, because today, I’m talking to you about your facility and what’s going on, and then in the evening, I’m on a Zoom call and now you’re telling me what’s going on,” Alfonso said.

In the future, Alfonso hopes NSU Facilities will be officially recognized as a department of excellence

by APPA (formerly the Association of Physical Plant Administrators).

Some projects Facilities is developing are an ALS clinic in the Center for Collaborative Research, a new art gallery on the first floor of the Alvin Sherman Library, Research, and Information Technology Center, and building classrooms in the Parker Building for biology and chemistry.

Alfonso said his time in the Army, City of Miami and NSU taught him the importance of learning from people and understanding what their priorities are.

“My story is no different than that of many, many, many hundreds of people who’ve come before me and done it. So I don’t think I’m that unique in that sense, but I’m very happy to be here. I’m very happy that my life took those crazy turns,” Alfonso said.

6

FEATURES | March 13, 2025

The Current

Sharks Speak: Which NSU female faculty member inspires you?

“A female NSU faculty that has inspired me is Jennifer Magas. I was so immersed with her in my first semester that I feel like I’ve clicked with her. Seeing what she’s doing with her career and how she connects with her students, giving us the insights with her stories in the classes — she’s inspired me to further finalize what I want to do and the career I want to get into. She is the model of what I want to get into, which is public relations, and I am glad that I have her as a mentor,” said Kayla McGee, senior communication major.

“Leanne Boucher Gill. She inspires me because not only is she a fantastic professor, but she also is constantly wanting to teach others about sensation and perception. She writes children’s books on the topic and is constantly thinking of ways to engage her students,” said Ashianna Trivedi, junior neuroscience major and DJ at Mako Radio.

“Dr. Amy Hirons inspires me a lot.

She is not only a teacher that takes charge, but she has her own lab.

She is a leader, and she knows how to teach others and how to inspire learning for other students. She is very enthusiastic about that, which makes having classes with her and working with her so much better.

Being a part of her lab has been such a unique experience, and I feel like I’ve become more confident in my knowledge and in learning,” said Sophia Paz, sophomore marine science major.

“I would say Elena Bates. She is a vocal teacher here at NSU, and she also works in Broward College. The majority of my professors are men, and so it’s nice to have a female professor in that area. Here, classes feel one-on-one and I am never uncomfortable. She really knows how to warm up to students and it feels like talking to a friend. She is a really good professor; she really cares. She is a very busy teacher, but she always finds the time to make sure everyone is cared for,” said Tristyn Wamsley, freshman speech-language disorders major.

BY DARIA GROSS AND BRIELLE AGUAYO

How NSU supports the blue economy

By Bryce Johnson Joana Figueiredo, executive director of the National Coral Reef Institute and associate professor in the Department of Marine and Environmental Sciences, is working on coral restoration projects to preserve the ecosystem.

“Coral reefs are the ecosystem we have here in South Florida and are very valuable for all of us. Imagine if you didn’t have reefs out there. It would mean that whenever we have a storm, we would have much more flooding than we do at the moment,” Figueiredo said.

The NCRI is part of NSU’s efforts to have a sustainable blue economy, which involves research and commerce as it relates to the ocean.

NSU President Dr. Harry K. Moon talked about the importance of the blue economy at his investiture on Jan. 31.

“In Florida today, the blue economy accounts for more than $800 billion in economic impact, or almost 80% of the state’s gross domestic product,” Moon said. “As a hub for research, collaboration and education, NSU Ocean is ideally positioned to deliver an immediate and lasting impact on Florida as it becomes the 10th largest economy in the world by 2030.”

Holly Lynn Baumgartner, dean of the Halmos College of Arts and Sciences, said the blue economy is focused on money generated by ocean activities, as well as preservation of the ocean.

COURTESY OF JOY OGLESBY

Nova Southeastern University (NSU) Guy Harvey Oceanographic Research Center sits on the entrance channel of Port Everglades.

“If our coral reef, which runs the length of Florida, isn’t a healthy reef, then it stops being a protection from tropical storms,” Baumgartner said.

The blue economy is benefited by ocean activities like snorkeling, fishing and diving.

“From purchases to activities out on the ocean, the seafood you’re eating at the restaurant, all those things are ways in which you’re tied into the blue economy,” Baumgartner said.

One way NSU plans to preserve the blue economy is by developing a Rising Seas Institute for the university,

whose mission “is to provide global leadership for understanding and adapting to the challenges of rising sea level,” according to its website.

“What we see happening in the last couple years here in South Florida is flooding, flooding, flooding.

That destabilizes the foundation of houses and condo units and apartment units. It floods our streets,” Baumgartner said. “The Rising Seas Institute looks at that and many situations that affect the blue economy.”

Port Everglades, which has the (NSU) Guy Harvey Oceanographic Research Center on its entrance

channel, contributes $26.5 billion annually to the blue economy.

“Our Guy Harvey Oceanographic Research Center sits on the port and is part of the Port Everglades Action Team,” Baumgartner said.

“We all share that entrance there at the port, where the water from the ocean comes in, our cruise lines are shipping things, our research boats, all that comes through that channel right there.”

Figueiredo said preserving the blue economy is important because of the resources it provides, like fish and protection from big waves.

“In one way we want to preserve the ecosystem, but it doesn’t have to be preserved to a level that you just don’t touch it. It means that you preserve it in a way that it will keep on giving us humans all sorts of ecosystem services,” she said.

For students interested in learning more about the blue economy, Baumgartner said they could take courses at NSU, regardless of their academic background.

“Whether you’re a law student, a healthcare student, a business student, psychology, nursing, any of them, they do have courses that tie into how you have an impact or a relationship with the ocean,” Baumgartner said.

FEATURES | March 13, 2025

The Current

7

Vinyl Destination: where music and community meet

PHOTO BY MARLEE CARD

Vinyl Destination owner Rick Trodella plays a record from his personal collection.

By Marlee Card In 1958, when Rick Trodella began buying records as a small Saturday morning tradition at 10 years old, it grew into a collection of more than 1,500 records and a full-fledged record store in Fort Lauderdale, Vinyl Destination. Specializing in vintage vinyl from the 1960s, ’70s and ’80s, the shop also features books and collectibles.

Originally from Boston, Trodella’s love for vinyl only deepened as his collection grew. By 1971, he and his wife had settled in South Florida.

With more than 30,000 records filling their space, he decided to find a new way to share his passion.

“I put out two big signs that just said ‘Vinyl Records,’ facing each direction,” Trodella said, recalling how his selling first began outside his

house. He started out selling common records of bands like the Carpenters, The Doobie Brothers and Fleetwood Mac, at affordable prices.

“At that time, I was just selling all the records that I had for $2,” Trodella said.

But as his collection kept growing and sales continued to increase, he realized he needed a new approach.

“At one point, I had 30,000 records,” Trodella said. “I asked my wife, ‘What should we do? Sell them all at once or open a record store?’

She was game with the store idea, so here we are.”

He said running a record store requires a passion for music, a dedication to quality and a large inventory. “[The vinyls] are inspected one by one. They’re cleaned if they need cleaning. They get a new inner sleeve,

if they have a bad one,” Trodella said.

“Our job is to keep the bins full with good, interesting products. Clean, priced well, give good service and in a friendly atmosphere that people want to be in.”

Vinyl Destination is run by Trodella, his wife, Mindy, and Cristo Roldan. Each share a love and appreciation for music history and record collecting. For Roldan, the shop is more than just a record shop, it’s a place of discovery and connection.

“It’s your discovery,” Roldan said.

“That’s what is so beautiful about sharing music, too, is to be able to put someone else onto [an artist] you think is so good.”

Roldan said that collecting records is a continuous learning experience and the store serves as a place for community.

“It’s like my sanctuary here. It’s a place to go for people to meet up and interact [with vinyls] and socialize,” Roldan said. “At the end of the day, you’re all there for the common understanding that you love music.”

The prices of his vinyl records range from $10 to $30, and vary based on the condition and rarity.

From classics like Miles Davis, The Beatles, Frank Sinatra, Carole King and Minnie Riperton, Trodella says he strives to meet the needs of all collectors.

“I have everything. You’ve got to have a little of everything here to suit all the different tastes that come around,” Trodella said.

In today’s digital era, students and music-lovers have instant access to any song through streaming. Trodella pointed out that while music is readily available on phones, it doesn’t compare to the experience of owning and listening to physical records.

“When the people come here for the vinyl, they want to be engaged,” Trodella said. “They want to be involved in the listening experience and the whole experience. Sometimes people buy a record just from the cover.”

Trodella’s love for music started

early. Starting from a young age, he worked at a local record store in Boston where he developed a deep appreciation for records. Frequent visits to a nearby radio station allowed him to watch disc jockeys at work behind the glass, inspiring him, his brother, and a friend to create their own station.

“We wanted to be disc jockeys so we built this little radio station in the basement of our house, had two turntables, a board, a console where everything operates from, reel tape, fake ads and all that kind of things,” Trodella said.

During college, his experience in radio helped him reopen the college radio station at Tufts University, where his record collection began to expand. He said there were many benefits of working at the station, including exclusive receptions with artists.

“I would go make the rounds all over the Boston area to all the various record companies, get their new product and get to know the promotion people very well,” Trodella said.

“But the best benefit of all was when I would go get the records from promotion people that said, ‘here’s a copy for the station and here’s a copy for you.’ So my record collection went from 200 to 1,500.”

For more information: Address: 937 NE 19th Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 Phone: 954-530-8415 Visit: @vinyl.destination.ftl on Instagram Hours: Wednesday - Saturday Noon to 8 p.m.

Sunday Noon - 6 p.m.

FOOD

Shamrock Shake stirs student opinion

By Luqman Gbenro

The Shamrock Shake is back in participating McDonald’s locations through March 23, just in time for St. Patrick’s Day. Michael Gonda, McDonald’s senior vice president and chief impact officer of North America, said in a press release: “Our long-standing tradition of the Shamrock Shake is a testament to the joy we bring to our customers.”

Reactions to the return of the seasonal menu item have been mixed, with some students only having a PHOTO BY ROSELINE JEAN-PIERRE vague idea of the mint dessert and McDonald’s employee makes a others having an apprehension Shamrock Shake. toward McDonald’s altogether.

“‘I’ve seen it scrolling on Instagram or something, but I don’t eat stuff from McDonald’s, so it doesn’t even interest me,” said junior music major Kiana Romero. “I’ve just heard [McDonald’s] has so many bad ingredients in their meals.”

The sentiment seems to come from a desire for more nutritious options on the McDonald’s menu.

“I just wish those meals would be a little bit healthier. We don’t know what’s in them, and if we were to know what’s in [the meals], I’m pretty sure people wouldn’t be eating them,” Romero said.

The appeal of a seasonal item outweighs any nutritional deficiencies for some. Sophomore exercise

science major Mikhail Cartwright enjoys the Shamrock Shake and understands why it is so compelling.

“I feel like [seasonal items] encourage you to go and get them more. When they come back, you want to go get them,” Cartwright said.

Sophia Desciscio, sophomore law major, said the scarcity of the dessert is a part of the draw.

“Honestly, I enjoy it because I like it, and I look forward to the Shamrock Shake coming out every year,” Desciscio said.

8

SCIENCE & HEALTH | March 13, 2025

The Current

This season experiences highest number of flu cases in years

COURTESY OF NSU FLORIDA

Maria Ines Escalantes Rodriguez, pharmacy technician, holds a patient’s prescription.

By Madison Kasper Flu season typically takes place each year from October to May. According to AdventHealth’s website, the peak of flu season is from December through February. Records show that this year’s flu season is the worst in at least 15 years. As a part of Mako Media Health Update, Aarti Raja, professor in the Department of Biological Sciences, discussed the flu and how to prevent getting it.

Q: What is the flu?

A: The flu is a highly contagious respiratory tract disease that is spread by a virus, which is the influenza virus, which we call the flu virus.

Q: What are the symptoms of the flu?

A: The symptoms mainly include a sore throat and a cough accompanied by fever. And the classic symptom of the flu is fever accompanied by chills. You can feel cold at times and then hot at times, and then the usual runny nose, weakness or fatigue that you just feel tired all the time. These are the main classic symptoms of the flu.

Q: How can the flu be treated?

A: For an average, healthy individual, the basic treatment is just getting rest. Isolate yourself, drink lots of fluids and take a rest. But there are cases where it can become a severe case of the flu. And for those instances, there are what we call antivirals or medication that can be taken against the influenza virus. There are currently four available on the market.

Q: Recently it came out that this flu season has been the most intense it’s ever been in the past at least 15 years. Why is that?

A: One of the reasons is simply because we’ve kind of forgotten what pre-COVID days looked like.

The numbers right now are actually closer to pre-COVID days, which is kind of like saying that’s normal. During the Covid years, we were more careful about a lot of things. We were isolated; we were using more protection for our nose and our faces. We probably weren’t spreading the flu around as much. Now that we’ve done away with all those precautions in place, the flu numbers seem to be going up. One of the other reasons as well is, there are fewer vaccinations that are happening against the flu, which might explain some of the increased numbers in flu cases.

Q: What available?

vaccines

is lowered, which basically just means you’re not going to have an extreme case of the disease and an individual will be prevented from getting to a hospital. You will be much more protected than if you never took the vaccine and ended up getting the flu.

Q: Any last thoughts?

A: The same thing, because we’re all in close proximity with

each other on a daily basis. The best way to prevent or protect yourself would be to get that vaccine on a yearly basis. If you’re unable to get it, then at least add these precautions to your daily life. Wash your hands well, keep yourself away from someone who may be sick, and if someone is sick, be aware of the fact that you might want to keep yourself away from the rest of the crowd.

are

A: Yearly we have vaccines available against influenza. If individuals go in and get vaccinated, then you will be protected against this virus or against getting the disease. And even if you do get the virus, your disease burden

PHOTO BY ERIC TOVIN

Pharmacy Technician Nichole James at the NSU Pharmacy, where flu vaccines are administered, processes and fills orders.

ARTS | March 13, 2025

The Current

9

Virtual reality art comes to life on the beach

Nicole Gomez, junior Art + Design major and graphic designer for The Current, and Maria Bernal, senior Art + Design major, use virtual reality headsets to create art.

By Madison Kasper Kolos Schumy, assistant professor in the Department of Communication, Media, and the Arts, took students in his Extended Reality class to the Marine Environmental Education Center at the Carpenter House on Feb. 27. The students worked on their final projects on the beach using virtual reality headsets to create art.

Schumy wanted to give his students a special experience creating art in nature.

“I think it’s a very unique experience, and you make art in a different way when you’re touching and feeling and breathing the nature around yourself,” Schumy said.

The original idea behind doing virtual reality at the beach was inspired by the art style plein air, which means creating art outdoors.

“I really love the idea of plein air, the style from the late 1800s, like Monet, when artists went out to nature, and they had firsthand experience with nature. They had a touch and feel. So, they started painting outdoors. That was my idea: what if we take these headsets onto the

beach?” Schumy said.

For students like Jesse Caruana, sophomore marine biology major with a minor in studio art, this experience was more than just their final project for class.

“I think when I’m drawing or creating any art, I try to put myself in the ocean aspect. But here, it was like I got to shoot it around me. I got to feel it, and it was really immersive, and I got to incorporate that in my work, which I liked a lot,” Caruana said.

Getting to take a trip to the MEEC was a new experience for students like Maria Bernal, senior Art + Design major with a concentration in graphic design.

“Sometimes we don’t experience all the things NSU offers. I had never been to the MEEC before, so with Professor Kolos giving us the opportunity to come here, see all the aspects NSU is involved, I think it’s really nice. [We are combining] the arts and the sciences,” Bernal said.

Each student got to create their own art through virtual reality headsets. Some of the inspiration behind the student’s artwork was jellyfish, sharks, fish and other sea creatures.

Tina Valdovinos, junior communication major and multimedia journalist for The Current, and Lara Tobolski, sophomore Art + Design major, draw virtually with their headsets

Students in the Extended Reality course in the Department of Communication, Media, and the Arts make virtual art on the beach.

Nicole Gomez, junior Art + Design major and graphic designer for The Current, used sea turtles as her inspiration.

“At the MEEC center, they have these two turtles, kind of sanctuaried in there. And I was like, ‘Oh,

they’re so cute.’ I was inspired. So, I made these baby turtles on the beach, hatching out of their eggs and going into the ocean,” Gomez said.

Christopher Hart, sophomore exercise science major, creates a virtual drawing.

PHOTOS BY MADISON KASPER

10

ARTS | March 13, 2025

The Current

Senior exhibition and legacy endowment forge the future of the arts

By Hannah Krebsbach The Department of Communication, Media, and the Arts is hosting Metamorphosis: the 14th Senior Showcase Art Exhibition and Mark Lindsay Duncan Legacy Endowment for the Arts Reception.

The two events have been combined this year; and will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. on March 27 inside the Adolfo and Marisela Cotilla Gallery in the Alvin Sherman Library, Research, and Information Technology Center.

Mark Duncan, a professor at NSU until his death in 2021, was the founding professor of the performing and visual arts programs. The endowment was created to continue his legacy by raising money to fund the arts programs that he helped found.

Mario D’Agostino, assistant professor in DCMA and interim program director for Art + Design, is happy to support both events. He had previously worked with Duncan and emphasized the importance of the endowment to the NSU community.

“I came to NSU in 2018, and Mark was already here. My understanding after the fact was that the reason we have an arts program here is because of Mark. So, this event is something that is so important to the

department to continue to honor the memory of somebody who started something that we are all a part of,” D’Agostino said.

A donor and alumni reception to support the endowment has been held annually in conjunction with another performing and visual arts event. This year it is being held alongside the Senior Art Exhibition.

“We really wanted to celebrate the accomplishments of the seniors and the fact that they are almost done with the program, so we thought it would be a really nice gesture to have the senior showcase run in conjunction with the legacy event,” D’Agostino said.

The primary purpose of the Senior Showcase is for students to present their work to the South Florida community. This allows them to market themselves and form connections as they leave NSU and branch out into the workforce.

Each winter semester the Art + Design program offers the course Senior Project in which senior art students curate a final exhibition of their work. This year, the course is taught by Kolos Schumy, assistant professor in the Department of Communication, Media, and the Arts.

“It’s a really big opportunity to put myself out there and to prove to myself that I am a real artist and

show how far I have come,” said Raul Perez, senior Art + Design major who is submitting art for the exhibition.

This is the first time the Art + Design program has curated an exhibition in the Cotilla Gallery.

“The library really promotes that space, so there’s an added layer of significance to this year’s exhibition because of the location. I think it’s going to create more of an interaction with the student’s work this year, for sure,” D’Agostino said.

This exhibition provides students with an opportunity to learn how to present themselves as artists, while working alongside other artists. The larger space also allows students to present more of their artwork, Perez said.

“You learn what it takes to set up a gallery and fill your space because you do the installation yourself, we don’t have a team that does it for us.

So, you also have to be conscious of how to monetize yourself as an artist as well,” Perez said.

This exhibition will be open from March 27 to May 1. Participating students will leave behind business cards as well as resumes so anyone interested in their work can reach out. The event is free and all students are welcome to view the exhibition before the end of the semester.

For more information: Scan this QR code to donate to Mark Lindsay Duncan Legacy Endowment for the Arts

Fauré and Friends: a French-themed noontime recital

COURTESY OF BY BILL ADAMS

Bill Adams, music and theatre program director, and Jihong Adams-Park, associate lecturer, rehearse for Fauré and Friends.

By Hannah Krebsbach Bill Adams, music and theatre program director, and Jihong AdamsPark, associate lecturer, both part of the Department of Communication, Media, and the Arts, will host a French-themed noontime recital on March 19 inside the Adolfo and Marisela Cotilla Gallery in the Alvin Sherman Library, Research, and Information Technology Center.

The event will include piano, voice and violin performances. Two to three people will be on stage at a time without microphones. It will

be solely instruments, singers, and the audience.

Adams will participate as a vocal performer along with several student performers.

Samyuktha Chaganti, a sophomore speech language pathology major, and Teresa Arroyo, a sophomore marine biology major, both of whom are vocal performers, will be performing a duet accompanied

by Adams-Park of “Barcarolle” from Les Contes d’Hoffmann.

“Sam and I have been working on that song since last semester, and we didn’t have an event to sing it for so

when our director brought up this event, we thought it would be perfect,” Arroyo said.

Students who have been working on pieces over the past semester have volunteered to participate in this event. Adams said the students will be performing either solos or duets with Adams-Park accompanying them on piano.

“We have close to 15 students studying private voice lessons here in the department every semester working on pieces,” Adams said.

“We have been searching for an event to have the students show their work and now we have a place to do it in public.”

The students performing do not need to be music majors, and many are not, said Carlo Alberto Ricchi, adjunct professor in DCMA, who will be performing alongside the students as an instrumentalist.

“Both ensembles always meet on Tuesdays from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the University Center in rooms 309 and 310. They are open to all students, not just music majors,” Ricchi said.

There are a few, including Arroyo, who are music minors but anyone in a private lesson is welcome to volunteer.

“Most of us just love singing.

There’s some of us who have been doing it forever and some who have

never picked up a sheet of music,” Arroyo said.

Following the French theme, the music for this event consists mainly of chamber music. This type of music is typically lively tunes that would have been played in a living room or “living chamber” in the 18th and 19th century.

“This is a lot of fun for me and my accompanist to work on, so we are letting the audience see that. It’s great literature, great repertoire, but it’s not showy like big opera music or Broadway stuff,” Adams said.

The purpose of this event is to showcase the talent of these students, as well as generate engagement with the music program and DCMA. “We have a very unique and special music program, and I think music connects everybody. I think it allows us to really get to know people who are in completely different majors and form connections,” Arroyo said.

Ricchi said that the faculty are also preparing for another concert on April 25, titled “Mozart to Mowtown.”

“For this concert we will have more lively music and we will also have the Mako band participating,” Ricchi said.

ARTS | March 13, 2025

The Current

11

MUSIC BY MARLEE CARD

What you didn’t know about Miami Music Week

six-day music party marathon takes place from March 25-30, featuring more than 200 events and showcases top producers and DJs from around the world. MMW encapsulates everything electronic dance music has to offer, including house, techno, trance, drum ‘n’ bass and dubstep.

Bringing together the collective global electronic music community, new fans and longtime attendees come to celebrate with peace, love, unity and respect.

The week kicks off with pool parties, club and hotel events, and networking opportunities. MMW wraps up with Ultra, Miami’s three-day music festival, featuring some of the world’s most popular and influential PHOTO BY MARLEE CARD DJs and producers.

Attendees watch the fire show in Ultra Music Festival’s website between DJ sets at Ultra Music Festival. headlines well-known names, from Afrojack, Alesso, Martin Garrix, Dom For more than a decade, Miami has Dolla, John Summit, Zeds Dead and been home to one of the most iconic even underground rising producand influential events in electronic ers like peekaboo, Carl Cox, Adam music: Miami Music Week. This Beyer and more. This year, attendees

can plan to see labels like Insomniac Records, Brownies & Lemonade, Black Book Records and Armada Invites.

The all-day-and-night electronic music scene is not all that Miami Music Week showcases. What’s commonly forgotten about by most festival-goers is the behind-the-scenes networking, industry panels and workshops. The Winter Music Conference, which is part of Miami Music Week, celebrates its 35th anniversary this year. Bringing together industry professionals, producers, DJs and fans for a week of music education, networking and celebration. Established in 1985, the conference has become a global hub for electronic music culture, attracting thousands of people from all over the world.

WMC is scheduled for March 26-28 at the Eden Roc Hotel in Miami Beach. Attendees have access to industry panels and workshops that focus on various aspects of the music business—everything from

production techniques to the latest trends in music technology and digital distribution. WMC is a space for aspiring artists to learn from experts and for established professionals to discuss the future of the genre.

This year’s conference features a diverse array of industry leaders and influential figures, from artists like HAYLA, LP Giobbi, Sydney Blu and Aluna. Attendees have access to panels from industry leaders such as David Waxman, president of Ultra Records, Sam Mobarek, head of Major Records at Warner Records and Watse de Jong, manager of Martin Garrix.

Miami Music Week’s Winter Music Conference and Ultra Music Festival unites the business and creative sides of electronic dance music. Serving as a hub for networking, education and innovation, MMW creates a week that is as educational as it is electrifying.

The Chart Buzz The NACC Chart highlights the most popular and up-and-coming artists gaining momentum on college and community radio stations across North America, offering a glimpse into the dynamic and ever-evolving tastes of college students and young adults who value authentic, innovative sounds. This past week’s list features a blend of new and emerging artists, each pushing musical boundaries with experimental genres, deep themes and thought-provoking lyrics. From Gothic New Wave to lo-fi post-punk and soulful experimentalism, these albums represent a diverse range of sounds that are resonating with listeners today.

1. Sharon Van Etten & The Attachment Theory - Self Titled Reaching No. 1 on the NACC Chart, this album marks Sharon Van Etten’s first full collaboration with her band, signifying a departure from her solo work. This New Wave Gothic record will appeal to fans of bands like New Order, blending electronic soundscapes, heavy

synth layers and haunting melodies to create a distinct yet compelling sonic experience. The opening track, “Live Forever,” sets the tone with its deep, ambient minimalism, pulling in listeners to the album’s immersive atmosphere.

2. Horsegirl - Phonetics On and On Horsegirl, an indie band from Chicago, consists of singer-guitarists Nora Cheng and Penelope Lowenstein, along with drummer Gigi Reece. “Phonetics On and On,” its second studio album, marks a new chapter for the band.

While their previous albums were released during their teenage years, this record explores the ambiguities of adulthood, the complexities of growth and even the feelings of awkward crushes, all while maintaining their signature lo-fi, postpunk sound. Songs like “Frontrunner” toy with new sound structures, such as folk-like acoustic strumming patterns, showing their musical evolution.

3. Squid - Cowards Arising from the British postpunk days, each album showcases how they continue to evolve with each release. “Cowards,” the band’s third studio album was released on Feb. 7, and delves into themes surrounding the nature of evil, creating an eerie yet catchy track list. Tracks like “Crispy Skin” and “Blood on the Boulders” exemplify the band’s exploration of dark subjects, such as cannibalism and societal fascinations with true crime. With intricate harmonic structures and compositions that challenge conventional song formats, the album reflects the band’s commitment to pushing musical boundaries and expanding their sound 4. FKA Twigs - EUSEXUA Tahliah Debrett Barnett, or FKA twigs is a British singer, writer, and dancer. EUSEXUA is her third album which brings an upbeat sound with a stronger emphasis on dance and pop influences. The term “eusexua,” coined by twigs and described in the music video

for “Wanderlust,” refers to a state of losing track of time, evoked by music, art and unity. This powerful release is packed with high-energy, experimental sounds designed to make listeners dance and move.

5. Saya Gray - SAYA Rising to the No. 5 spot on the NACC Chart, Saya Gray is a rising independent alternative pop artist known for her unique blend of genres and experimental sound.

Having toured as Daniel Caesar’s bassist and served as the musical director for Willow Smith, Gray pours her heart into her latest album, “SAYA.” With themes of heartbreak and vulnerability, she showcases her talent for intertwining personal narratives into her music, all while blending folk elements with soulful and experimental sounds. SAYA stands as a testament to her evolving artistry, pushing creative boundaries and solidifying her place in the music scene.

12

SPORTS | March 13, 2025

The Current

NSU swim teams set sights on national championship

COURTESY OF NSU ATHLETICS

Michael Kent, freshman biology major, swims toward the touchpad to finish the race.

By Eric Tovin With the SSC Conference championship behind them, NSU’s swimming teams have a long road ahead as they prepare for the NCAA Division II National Championship held March 11-15 in Indianapolis, Ind. The women’s swim team will look to defend its back-to-back national titles.

During the SSC Championship, held Feb. 12-16, the women’s swim team placed second while the men’s team placed third. Both teams finished the meet with a total of 18 gold medals, 10 silver, and six bronze. The women fell short of earning their fifth consecutive SSC championship by only five points against the Tampa Spartans.

In the men’s bracket, an eight-year standing meet and university record

was broken by Luca Alessandrini, a senior sports and recreation major, in the 1650Y free event with a time of 15:11.36. Alessandrini also brought home one gold and two silver medals at the meet.

“It was a great feeling because not only did I break the meet record, but I broke the school record, which is one that has been standing for about eight years. It’s the third individual record I have for NSU and the fourth overall, including relays. I’ve been chasing it for four years,” Alessandrini said. “It was true joy, happiness, satisfaction, and loads of emotion.”

Head swimming coach Ben Hewitt said that last year Alessandrini missed breaking the record by twotenths of a second. This year, Alessandrini’s pursuit culminated in a record-breaking performance that impacted Hewitt.

COURTESY OF NSU ATHLETICS

The men’s and women’s swimming teams celebrate after their performances at the SSC Championship.

“For him, it’s the culmination of four years trying to break that record.

It was a chase. It’s gratifying for me because it fulfills all of his goals. He was finally able to make peace with the previous result, and he did amazing. I’m very proud of him. He had an excellent meet,” Hewitt said.

Alessandrini plans to spend his final season by making the most of his time left.

“The goal is to get out there and enjoy this because of how hard it is to get there in the first place. With all the stress that comes with it, I just want to enjoy being a shark in the pool one last time,” Alessandrini said In the women’s bracket, May Lowy, senior business management major, maintains a positive outlook for the team, despite falling short of what would’ve been its fifth-consecutive SSC title.

“You lose, you learn. I’m a big Chiefs fan, so seeing them lose to the Eagles and still keep their heads up, hungry for more success, resembles what I think of this meet. I’m confident we can three-peat, and I don’t know if everyone knows that,” Lowy said. “But that doesn’t matter now.

It was sad, but we came back to the pool the next day working hard. We are ready for nationals. We are still in the game.”

Lowy, who is also entering her final season, recognizes the unique chance her team has to achieve something monumental: a three-peat national championship. She speaks to the team’s shared vision and the pressure they face.

“We have an opportunity right now to do something big, regardless of our past, because we look to the future. We are going to do our best, have fun, swim fast, and be there for each other,” Lowy said. “The pressure is always on, especially because

every point matters, as you saw in the conference meet.”

From Hewitt’s perspective, the SSC Championship meet was a moment to consider the impact of the team’s performances and the overall results.

“The SSC Conference has really improved in terms of success, and our standards have gone up exponentially. What I get out of this as a coach is not the success, but the joy I get from being around my swimmers, getting to know them, and having their back,” Hewitt said. “I’m excited for what this has done for us. My biggest takeaway is we’re pretty fired up right now and I think that’s going to be useful in the national championship meet.”

As the team sets its sights on the National Championships, Hewitt is addressing areas for improvement, including roster adjustments and managing recent health challenges.

Despite some obstacles, Hewitt remains confident that the team’s best performances are yet to come.

“One element of this is to improve and increase the roster size beforehand,” Hewitt said. “Currently, we’re on the side of being motivated and seeing what these squads can do, getting better and faster, as their best swimming is in front of them.”

Bella Giaquinto, contributed to this report.

For more information: To stay up to date with the swim team and its upcoming national championship, follow on Instagram and X @NSU_Swim

SPORTS | March 13, 2025

The Current

13

NSU swim teams earn national academic recognition

By Bella Giaquinto NSU men’s and women’s swim teams were recognized for their academic achievements by qualifying for the College Swimming and Diving Coaches Association of America (CSCAA) Scholar All-American teams for the Fall 2024 semester.

The women’s swimming team was recognized for its 3.59 GPA, while the men’s swimming team held a 3.47 GPA. “I’ve been so proud to see them outperform each and every year. It seems like they’re consistently making progress as a team which takes a lot of work,” said Ben Hewitt, head swimming coach.

For Ilaria Murzilli, a senior member of the women’s swimming team, this recognition represents a significant achievement for the team.

“I’m very proud of being part of this team because we are keeping strong in swimming and in academics and that’s not easy. Not all the teams do it,” Murzilli said.

The dedication of the swimmers was displayed during the Sunshine State Conference Championship from Feb 12-16, where Hewitt witnessed their commitment to academics.

“We had kids writing papers on

coach buses in cramped up seats trying to get their stuff done and so I think that speaks to their commitment level,” Hewitt said.

Their motivation to excel academically stems from a mutual understanding, as Murzilli emphasizes that their identity as students precedes their role as athletes.

“I think we all know what our goal is. We all know that, yes, we need to focus a lot on sports, on our swimming, but alsowe know that we are student athletes. We are students first,” Murzilli said.

Hewitt helps his team balance its demanding schedules and set them up for success by necessitating effective communication and planning.

He explains how he values team feedback by making sure everyone is on the same page, considering each week looks different. If he addresses concerns early on, Hewitt is able to work with their schedules to find what works best for them.

“It’s early communication about the demands of what they’re going to be going through between swimming and class time. Coming up with an alternative practice schedule and just kind of asking the athlete, is this going to work?” Hewitt said.

Beyond Hewitt’s direct leadership and guidance, the NSU Athletics

academic team, led by Rachel Fineberg, associate athletic director for Student-Athlete Support Services and senior woman administrator and Title IX Coordinator; and Deanna Rivero, Ed. D., Athletic Academic Services manager, plays a vital role in the team’s success.

“We’re not anywhere close to where we would hope to be if it wasn’t for them [Fineberg & Rivero], they unburden the coaches. The kids see them as a resource, not as someone that they have to go to because they’re not doing well,” Hewitt said.

One resource in particular that the Athletics academic team facilitates is study hall. All NSU student-athletes (incoming freshman, college transfers, and current NSU student-athletes) are subject to mandatory study hall. Student-athletes are placed in study hall based on specific academic criteria.

Inigo Marina, a senior member of the men’s swimming team, attests to how study hall helped him in his academic success and what strategies he uses to remain successful.

“Study hours used to help me, I’m not doing them now but I used to study a lot. I try to keep everything on time, all my assignments and everything while I’m still training a lot. It’s kind of hard sometimes, and

COURTESY OF NSU ATHLETICS

Freshman Kristina Orban competes at the SSC Championship.

I try to keep a well-structured sleeping schedule,” Marina said.

Marina’s disciplined approach mirrors the hard work found throughout the team, but it’s ultimately a collective commitment that fuels the swim team’s sustained success.

“I’m just humbled by their continued success and I look forward to another great semester of academic growth and performance,” Hewitt said.

Sport Shorts

By Isabella Fernandez de Cueto Women’s softball, March 9 The No. 25 women’s softball team split a doubleheader against No. 21 Kutztown, winning the first game 8-0 and dropping the second game 3-2. Game 1 saw a home run and four RBIs by Brenna Lokeinsky and six strikeouts by pitcher Gracelyn Wallace. Game 2 saw an RBI by Brenna Lokeinsky and five strikeouts by pitcher Cassidy Duskin.

Women’s basketball, March 9 The women’s basketball team fell 55-51 in the SSC Championship to No. 15 Embry-Riddle. The Sharks were led by Aubrey Stupp, who recorded 13 points. They advanced to the NCAA South Region Tournament, facing Alabama-Huntsville on March 14th.

Women’s softball, March 8 The No. 25 women’s softball team swept Saginaw Valley State in a doubleheader, winning 1-0 and 6-2.

Game 1 saw a game-winning RBI by Cassidy Duskin in the fifth inning and a shutout with eight strikeouts by pitcher Gracelyn Wallace. Game 2 saw 3 RBIs by Gianna Russo and a season-high five strikeouts by pitcher Cassidy Duskin.

Women’s tennis, March 7 The No. 2 women’s tennis team defeated No. 10 Auburn Montgomery 4-0, marking its 17th consecutive win, dating back to April 2024. Kristyna Hranacova and Ita Habekovic earned wins in their doubles and

singles matches, while Julia Moraes and Noemie Dadoun earned a doubles win and Sofia Shing earned a singles win.

Men’s track, March 7 The men’s track team competed at the STU Under the Lights Invite, with 11 top-10 finishes. Phillip DiMarco finished first in the 400m, Julian Granville finished second in the 400m, and Ryan Elfring finished second in the 3000m steeplechase.

Women’s track, March 7 The women’s track team competed at the STU Under the Lights Invite, with 14 top-10 finishes. Bella Ascone finished first in the 3000m steeplechase, Sativa James finished first in the 400m, and Eden Toal finished first in the 800m.

Women’s softball, March 7 The No. 25 women’s softball team swept Caldwell in a doubleheader, winning 9-1 and 4-3. Game 1 saw three strikeouts and two RBIs from Cassidy Duskin while Game 2 saw three RBIs from Gianna Russo.

Men’s basketball, March 6 The No. 2 men’s basketball team defeated Tampa 104-80 in the SSC Semifinals, advancing to the SSC Championship game. Ryker Cisarik had 26 points and his fifth double-double of the season, while Dallas Graziani had 17 points and his 13th double-double of the season.

Women’s basketball, March 6 The women’s basketball team upset

No. 18 Tampa in the SSC Semifinals, defeating them 55-45 and earning a spot in the SSC Championship game for the first time since 2015. The defense held Tampa to a season-low 45 points, while Aubrey Stupp scored 14 points and Madison Cloonan tallied 10 points.

Women’s tennis, March 6 The No. 2 women’s tennis team defeated No. 19 West Alabama 4-0.

Julia Moraes and Noemie Dadoun secured victories in singles and doubles, while Sofia Shing and Isabella Ciancaglini earned a doubles win and Ita Habekovic earned a singles win.

Men’s baseball, March 5 The men’s baseball team fell 18-10 against Valdosta State in a high scoring game with a combined 28 runs and 36 hits. The Sharks saw home runs by Zeth Rodriguez, Jack Cue, and Gabriel Esquivel.

Women’s softball, March 4 The No. 25 women’s softball team swept Flagler in a doubleheader, winning 1-0 and 9-1. Game 1 saw a game-winning RBI by Abbey Moore in the second inning, as well as a shutout and seven strikeouts by pitcher Gracelyn Wallace. Game 2 saw a home run and four RBIs by Lauren Margolis.

Men’s basketball, March 4 The No. 2 men’s basketball team beat Barry 116-79 in the SSC quarterfinals, marking their 17th straight win against the Buccaneers, dating back to 2018. MJ Iraldi had a team-high

23 points, with Alex Mangold and Tommy Sala contributing 16 points each.

Women’s basketball, March 4 The women’s basketball team beat Palm Beach Atlantic in the SSC Quarterfinals 65-49, marking its first SSC tournament win since 2019. The Sharks were led by Jess Moors with 16 points, Corina Conley with 15 points, and Dash Shaw with 11 points.

Women’s tennis, March 4 The No. 2 women’s tennis team defeated West Florida 7-0. Ita Habekovic, Kristyna Hranacova, Sofia Shing, and Isabella Ciancaglini earned wins in singles and doubles, with Noemie Dadoun and Julia Moraes winning their singles matches.

Men’s baseball, March 4 The men’s baseball team fell 17-8 at Valdosta State. The Sharks were led by Justin Wachs and Boris Peña, who each had two RBIs, and pitchers Alexander Llinas and Edwin Alicea each had three strikeouts.

Women’s softball, March 3 The No. 21 women’s softball team won both games at the USSSA Space Coast Games, beating Cedarville 11-0 and Walsh 2-1. Game 1 saw a home run by Gianna Russo and four RBIs

by Brianna Matthews, while Game 2 saw a game-winning RBI by Maliyah Lawson in the eighth inning.

14

SPORTS | March 13, 2025

The Current

NSU Softball makes history at West Alabama game

COURTESY OF NSU ATHLETICS

Cassidy Duskin, softball player and fifth-year applied professional studies major, pitches during a game against University of West Alabama.

By Isabella Fernandez de Cueto NSU softball pitcher Cassidy Duskin pitched a perfect game and head coach Julie LeMaire achieved 500 career wins, both in the same game on February 2, a 1-0 win over the University of West Alabama.

Duskin, a fifth year applied professional studies major, is in her first year at NSU after transferring from the University of North Alabama.

This is also her last season, both at NSU and as a collegiate softball player.

“I wouldn’t want to be with any other team for my last year than the one I have here. When we’re on the field together, there’s no better connection than the ones I have with

them,” Duskin said.

A perfect game happens when a pitcher allows no hits, runs, or batters to reach first base. Duskin faced 21 batters and got them all out, a difficult feat to achieve. This is the second perfect game in program history, with the first one being in 2018.

“There are a lot of pitchers that will never throw a perfect game in their entire careers. Cassidy was able to do something that many people will never be able to do,” Julie LeMaire said.

Duskin views this milestone as the culmination of the adversity she has faced during her softball career.

“Growing up, I was always told by my coaches that I would never pitch at any collegiate level, so not

COURTESY OF NSU ATHLETICS

Head softball coach Julie LeMaire in the dugout with her team.

only have I pitched at three different collegiate levels, but now I also pitched a perfect game. It’s one of my greatest accomplishments in my softball career and it’s also the outcome of me never giving up on myself,” Duskin said.

Her resilience also comes from words her father has told her all her life.

“My dad has always told me ‘can’t never could until it tried,’ so I knew I could do it, but I didn’t think that it would actually happen, especially this being my last year,” Duskin said.

Despite the performance, Duskin has kept herself grounded.

“It’s very rare to throw a perfect game, so I’m taking this one and I know I’m going to continue to have good and bad games,” Duskin said.

“I’ve been trying to tell myself that because it’s my last year I need to have fun playing, regardless of how I play.”

To add to an already special day, LeMaire recorded her 500th career win.

“A lot of people are always saying how similar Coach LeMaire and I are, so I’ve always looked up to her and when I found out it was her 500th career win we both immediately had this emotional connection and bond because we get to be a part of each other’s accomplishments,” Duskin said.

LeMaire is in her 16th year as a head coach, and her 10th at NSU. She attributes her 500 wins to all the players she’s had throughout the years.

“I’ve been fortunate to have a lot of really great athletes that have bought into what I ask of them on the field, which has ended up being

successful for me on the field. At the end of the day, you can’t get a win without the players playing the way they need to, so the credit goes to them,” LeMaire said.

Even during her special moment, LeMaire was more excited for her player than herself.

“Everyone was excited about my 500th win, and I was just so excited for Cassidy because not a lot of kids achieve a perfect game. It was one of the best performances that I’ve been a part of,” LeMaire said.

LeMaire’s current assistant coach, Sydney Lageyre, was also a player for NSU under LeMaire, having been a member of the softball team from 2017-2022. She was on the team during the last perfect game, as well as when LeMaire achieved 300 and 400 career wins.

“Working with her daily as a coach, I get to see just how much she puts into this program and her attention to detail, all the small things that make us a top 25 team.

It’s been amazing to be a part of this, and being able to coach alongside her for her 500th win makes everything come full circle for me,” Lageyre said.

Among Duskin’s plans for the future is to become a head softball coach, and she hopes to use what she learns from LeMaire on her journey.

“I love playing under LeMaire.

She’s hardworking and sets very high standards for her athletes while also being there for us and teaching us things that will help us outside of softball. In my future as a softball coach, I hope to be like Coach LeMaire,” Duskin said.

COURTESY OF NSU ATHLETICS

Head softball coach Julie LeMaire high-fives Maliyah Lawson, sophomore psychology major.

EVENTS CALENDAR | March 13, 2025

The Current

EVENTS CALENDAR MARCH

THURSDAY

13

Lucky Cookie Creations Noon - Rolling Hills Building A Cupcakes, Charms, and Kinship 12:15 p.m. - Don Taft University Center Spine Packaging Survivor Care Packages 6 p.m. - DeSantis 1052 Women’s Craft Night 6:30 p.m. - DeSantis 2065

FRIDAY

14 15

21

PC popup shop Noon - Don Taft University Center Spine

SATURDAY

FooZ Fighters 8 p.m. - The Rose & Alfred Miniaci Performing Arts Center

22

Cruise & Connect Noon - DeSantis 3050 Pi Day Celebration Noon - Outside of the Parker Building Holi: The Festival of Colors, Love, and Spring 3 p.m. - Gold Circle Lake Snap & Snack 6 p.m. - DeSantis 2077

SATURDAY

FRIDAY

Waves of Creativity 2!

6 p.m. - DeSantis 1052

SUNDAY

23

Women’s Month Movie Night 2 p.m. - Rolling Hills Building A 2nd floor

MONDAY

Voices & Victories: Women’s History Chat & Chew Noon - DeSantis 3000

24

Spring Picnic Under The Stars

An Acoustic Evening with Matisyahu 8:30 p.m. - The Rose & Alfred Miniaci Performing Arts Center

6:30 p.m. - Library Quad

TUESDAY

SUNDAY

16 MONDAY

17

Phlebotomy and Vital Signs Workshop 10:30 a.m. - DeSantis 2065 Sunset Yoga Sessions 4 p.m. - Commons Lawn/Quad

25

Creative Writing for Students Workshop 12:30 p.m. - Library Conference 3018

Buenas Vibras 12:30 p.m. - DeSantis 3050

WEDNESDAY Paint, Plants & Boba

Women Who InZpire Noon - DeSantis 1049

26 THURSDAY

27

WEDNESDAY Paying It Forward: Creating a Legacy of

19

UGC Showcase 6 p.m. - Don Taft University Center 2nd floor

4 p.m. - DeSantis 1049

Game Night 5 p.m. - DeSantis 1133

Mark Lindsay Duncan Legacy Endowment for the Arts Donor Reception 5 p.m. – Alvin Sherman Library, Cotilla Gallery 14th Senior Showcase Art Exhibition 5 p.m. - Alvin Sherman Library, Cotilla Gallery

Support and Service Noon - Don Taft University Center Spine

Fauré and Friends Noon - Alvin Sherman Library, Cotilla Gallery Paint An Easter Bunny!

5 p.m. - DeSantis 2067

FRIDAY

28

Rodeo on the Reef: Shark Pride Friday Noon - Don Taft University Center Spine Starstruck 7 p.m. - Performance Theatre, Don Taft University Center

15

GAMES | March 13, 2025

The Current

WORD SEARCH V

Y

D

R

A

D

I

N

I

N

G

E

M

V

H

A

O

B

Q

I

L

Z

C

I

F

T

L

F

U

S

S

Y

T

P

Q

W

F

V

X

Y

H

E

X

I

E

O

A

I

D

P

B

T

O

F

L

B

C

Z

W

N

F

C

C

C

U

B

Y

S

N

T

J

T

Z

O

I

T

M

J

O

O

T

X

Q

H

S

Y

I

P

M

O

B

F

Z

J

U

N

U

Q

I

A

O

O

D

E

R

A

R

T

Q

R

S

F

Q

N

N

M

N

A

N

O

L

I

P

R

M

K

T

E

B

V

S

R

K

Q

N

L

E

T

T

T

L

V

I

R

N

Y

P

O

J

O

S

N

D

C

J

N

V

I

C

E

J

O

I

C

U

W

D

N

T

F

Z

R

U

N

Q

N

K

Q

R

K

T

S

F

U

U

L

T

R

A

Y

T

C

L

N

E

I

G

P

L

J

B

R

E

A

K

L

B

E

Y

A

O

A

D

M

U

E

F

D

S

W

Q

E

Q

Z

Y

CONFERENCE ACOUSTIC SOFTBALL SENIOR FLU

ELECTION INSPIRE ALFONSO DINING ULTRA

SHAMROCK FRIENDS WOMEN BREAK VINYL

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, March 26. The correct answer to this question will appear in the next issue of The Current.

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 2024-2025 school year will be invited to attend a celebration in April as part of Mathematics and Statistics Awareness Month.

The undergraduate student who submits the most correct answers during the contest year will receive the grand prize of a $50 gift card courtesy of the Department of Mathematics. If, at the end of the contest year, multiple students are tied for the contest champion, a tiebreaker question to determine the grand prize winner will take place where the fastest person to answer correctly wins the grand prize.

March 14 is not only Pi Day but also the birthday of Albert Einstein. Einstein’s date of birth of March 14, 1879 can be written as 3141879. In mathematics, a palindrome is a number that can be written such that it reads the same when read from left to right or right to left (131, 3553 and 64546 are examples). Find the smallest palindrome which is larger in value than 3141879.

Answer to theQuestion from the Last Issue: John Smith was born in 1995. (Sally born in 1965)

THE CURRENT’S COMIC

MAKO GETS INTERVIEWED

BY NICOLE GOMEZ

16