Don Ritenburgh Business Adviser ritenbur@oakland.edu 248.370.2533
THE FUTURE OF SPORTS MANAGEMENT Students gather for the first official meeting of the Future Sports Professionals network.
PHOTO BY AVA WEBB
Letter from the editor: surviving the job market
CHELSEA BOSSERT Editor-in-Chief
I’m sure everyone has seen the short videos on TikTok and Instagram of younger people — almost all of them recent college graduates — having gripes with the current job market.
While a lot of different people are speaking out, what they are saying is pretty uniform: my field is not hiring.
You also see a lot of people making light of this issue, especially in a field like computer science. Is the issue really this bad? Or are people crying wolf about the labor market?
A recent article from NPR explains this issue succinctly: a mix of government downsizing, an employers’ market and a lack of opportunities for recent graduates make getting a job straight out of school incredibly difficult.
Recent data released by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York echoes this sentiment, with trends showing that the unemployment rate for recent college graduates aged 22-27 is rising.
Many recent college graduates believe that the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been stifling the job market as well. It is already making an impact on the job market. A recent study conducted by Stanford economists found that “early-career employees in fields that are most exposed to AI have experienced a 13% drop in employment since 2022.”
That being said, it is not just the working
world’s fault. Students — at least at Oakland University — have been told, time and time again, that internships and experiences are key.
However, not every internship is created equal, it’s been found that a lot of unpaid internships do not lead to a fresh job in the future. It is often true that in Michigan, you have to sell your soul to the auto industry in order to get that foot-inthe-door position.
This is the position I’ve found myself stuck in. I really only have two options: stay in Michigan and work communications for an
automotive business, or move out of state and try to find that coveted journalism job.
I would like to think I have a pretty gnarly resume. One internship, two and a half years at my school’s student newspaper, a part-time promotions job in the radio world — all of this has been excellent experience for someone in my field.
I am still scared stiff about whether or not I can find a job once I graduate this semester.
I have to be realistic about this issue. A job in my dream field is not just going to appear out of thin air or fall right into my lap once I get my diploma. The advice I have for people in the same position that I am is this: be brave.
Bravery and boldness is something that a lot of employers appreciate. It is the boldness to approach an employer at a job fair, the bravery to ask for that business card and the wherewithal to push through, despite the possibility of failure. Be brave, be bold, be golden.
Best Wishes,
Chelsea Bossert
Easy as 1 2 3: A commentary on third spaces
MARISSA GETSCHMAN Arts Editor
I was working on an article in the Oakland Center when I looked up and saw a girl studying with her coffee and bagel downstairs, all alone. Nothing abnormal, but for some reason the visual brought me out of my hyper-focus and into a new sort of spiral. I glanced around to see more lone students doing their own thing; studying, eating, working, doomscrolling, yet no one looks lonely despite being alone. Why is that?
Have you ever heard someone reference third spaces? Children have three main spaces that provide a much-needed balance: home, school and play. That play space may have been a playground or a friend’s house, but it was a third space that didn’t need to be anything other than somewhere to let loose. Third spaces are a place where anyone can be what they need to be in that moment.
Now, as an adult, third spaces are harder to come by. I’ve found mine tend to be open spaces like the OC or the library where I can work on whatever I’d like without feeling like there is someone staring at me, judging how lazy or scatterbrained I might be. I feel like I can actually get my work done.
Where do we go after college though? I’m sure it’d be easy to just swing back to our old campus haunts and keep using them, but I think the most important part of a third space is that feeling of belonging — looking around and seeing that girl with her study supplies and a snack out doing the same other as you.
Coffee shops seem to be a hotspot 3rd space —but at a cost. $5 a day for a coffee adds up fast. And what of folks who don’t like such frivolities? What of those who can’t afford to pay to visit that third space but still need it? (Hint, everyone needs it.)
Three places come to mind in the mental search for free third spaces: the park, the library and the mall. The common denominator within all three options is that people can choose how social they’d like to be.
The park is perhaps the most versatile option with the widest range of things to do. Those who wish to sit in solitude can read a book, people watch or enjoy the scenery while the louder folk can run around, hootin’ and hollarin’. Playing a ballgame as an adult is 100% socially acceptable and encouraged at local parks.
The best part, perhaps, is that there are parks everywhere. If you don’t like one, try the next! Auburn Hills alone has 10 outdoor parks of varying styles.
Nothing outscores the library for coziness. While sound must be kept to a minimum to be considered polite, libraries are a whimsical place to coexist with peers. Many local libraries host various free events to keep guests engaged throughout the seasons.
The Auburn Hills library, for example, is currently hosting a monster hunt where community members (that includes us, fellow college students!) can wander the town on a digital scavenger hunt to earn tickets toward several different raffles. Folks can hunt alone or with friends, the event creates a sense of community no matter the choice.
Finally, the mall is a versatile choice that can be enjoyed inside or outside depending on which one is chosen. The option to purchase a study beverage exists, but there’s no pressure to make the purchase. Mall food courts feature many tables that can be used for more than just eating. Then of course there’s a whole subculture built around mall-walking.
Third spaces are vital to coexisting with other humans and living a full, well-rounded life. There are many more options than the three mentioned above. It’s all about finding the right one for any individual. Also worth noting is the recent emergence of co-op offices to keep home and work spaces separate for remote-workers. The whole point of a third space is that there are the two predecessors for home and work-life.
PHOTO COURTESY OF PIXABAY
PHOTO COURTESY OF BEACON PARK DETROIT ON LINKEDIN
Resources for surviving midterms
RUBY HERNANDEZ Campus Reporter
Midterm season at Oakland University can be a stressful time for students. With multiple exams, assignments and personal responsibilities piling up, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Fortunately, OU offers a variety of resources designed to help students manage stress, stay organized and succeed academically. From tutoring and study support to counseling and accommodations, students have multiple ways to prepare for midterms and maintain their well-being.
The Academic Success Center (ASC) provides free services to help students achieve their academic goals. Located in Wilson Hall, the ASC offers peer tutoring, study groups, supplemental instruction and academic coaching. These resources are designed to improve study habits, time management skills and overall academic performance.
According to the ASC website, students can participate in peer tutoring for various subjects, join study groups to collaborate with classmates and receive personalized coaching to develop effective learning strategies. The center also hosts workshops covering study techniques, time management and other strategies to help students succeed.
Managing stress is just as important as studying during midterms. The OU Counseling Center (OUCC) offers confidential counseling, support groups and crisis resources to help students cope with stress, anxiety and other personal challenges.
Dr. David Schwartz, Director of the Counseling Center, emphasizes the importance of planning ahead and maintaining healthy routines.
“Things like getting enough sleep, eating healthy and having downtime to relax and be with friends are every bit as important to success as studying,” he said.
Schwartz recommends avoiding cramming and prioritizing self-care, noting that sleep plays a critical role in memory and recall.
The Counseling Center also offers support groups such as the “Academic Success” group, which meets weekly on Tuesdays at 2 p.m. These sessions provide students with a safe space to discuss challenges, develop coping strategies and share resources.
For students with disabilities, Disability Support Services (DSS) provides accommodations and assistive technology to ensure equitable access to learning. This includes extended test time, reduced-distraction environments, readers or scribes when appropriate and
digital tools such as text-to-speech software and notetaking aids.
Kristen Swan, from DSS, encourages students to connect with the office early to ensure all accommodations are in place before midterms.
“Services are tailored toward the individual needs of each student,” she explained.
Swan advises students to register for accommodations and schedule exams at least three days in advance to avoid unnecessary stress. She also highlights the importance of breaking study tasks into manageable steps and building in short breaks to reduce stress and stay organized.
Both Schwartz and Swan emphasize the importance of advocacy and self-care during midterms. They recommend taking breaks, maintaining healthy routines and asking for help when needed. In addition to ASC, OUCC and DSS, students can utilize faculty office hours, peer study groups and workshops hosted by various departments and student organizations to gain extra support.
By planning ahead, utilizing campus resources and prioritizing self-care, students can approach midterms with confidence and resilience. OU provides a network of support to help students navigate this high-pressure time successfully.
Midterms can be challenging, but students at Oakland University do not have to face them alone. Whether through academic coaching, counseling, or accommodations, OU offers a wealth of resources to help students thrive. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength and taking care of your mental and physical well-being is just as important as studying.
PHOTO COURTESY OF OAKLAND UNIVERSITY
October BOT: Honors college renamed, McIntosh tribute and strong investment performance
ADRIAN JIMENEZ MORALES
Campus Editor
The Board of Trustees (BOT) Meeting on Oct. 17 began commemorating the life of Glenn McIntosh, former Senior Vice President for Student Affairs and Chief Diversity Officer, who died on Sept. 17.
An unusually full BOT meeting laughed and cried alongside the trustees who attested to Mr. OU’s sense of humor, passion for helping students and compromise with the university.
“I’d walk into a room here on campus or in public, we’d lock eyes, and he’d say, with that massive, contagious smile, what’s up, friend and an embrace would ensue,” Trustee Joe Jones said. “And for that moment, all was well, and it was well because I was with my friend. We both understood the absolute necessity of authentic friendship, the essential nature of that bond that could not be broken, especially in a broken world such as ours.”
The board honored McIntosh with the posthumous award of emeritus status, a title reserved for those who made a long-term contribution to OU, encouraging the continuity of community building at the university.
President’s Report
OU President Ora Hirsch Pescovitz opened her president’s report, celebrating this year’s enrollment of almost 16,000 students, including 2,330 first-year students — the largest freshmen class since 2019.
Some of the events highlighted by Pescovitz were Grizzfest, the international welcome reception, two white coat ceremonies and the faculty and staff ice cream social. These events were full of grizzly pride
and unity, Pescovitz said.
“We had our ribbon cutting at our brand new basketball practice facility at West Campus,” Pescovitz said. “It’s a truly impressive facility that now gives us, for the first time, a regulation-size practice court, locker rooms and a team lounge, a training room and a film room.”
The President’s report then transitioned to talk about state appropriations for the university, which saw no increases in base funding and a 2.1% increase in one-time funding.
Chris Pilsner was introduced as the inaugural Chief Marketing and Communications Officer for the university. “She has a wealth of experience, more than 15 years of experience in advertising, leading integrated campaigns for global clients and much more,” Pescovitz said.
Investment Report and Financial Statements
Commonfund Chief Information Officer Steve Snyder presented the working capital investment report for the university, highlighting a strong performance in the 2025 fiscal year, ensuring long-term increase in university funds.
“The university’s endowment investment strategy remains focused on long term growth, risk management and diversification,” Snyder said. “During the year, the Federal Reserve made its first rate cut in September 2024 keeping rates elevated to combat inflation, the Fed funds rate ended the period at 4.3% and we’ve seen an additional rate cut in this year 2025.”
With a gradual decrease in inflation, the OU endowment delivered a 12.88% in net fees with 15% equities with gains in AI-driven stocks, while bonds delivered 6% rate of return.
“Cash on hand covered all withdrawals for the fiscal year ending 2025 and there were no needs for unanticipated liquidations,” Snyder said. “If we look out five years, you’re annualizing at over 10.44%. And if we go out 10 years, the
portfolio annualizes out at 8.6 million. And if we look at the attributions of return, fixed in dividends and interest, added about $41 million of value in that time period, and $60 million from price appreciation. So over 10 years, the portfolio has increased in value to over 101 million and we’re currently at about $174 million.”
$10 million donation to rename the Honors College
After almost 50 years, the Honors College was formally renamed the “Donna and Walt Young Honors College” as the BOT approved the first named school in OU’s history. The change came in gratitude for the Young family’s $10 million donation to the university.
“[Walt Young] was recognized by Fortune magazine as a superstar, and the Harvard Business Journal called him one of the top 100 business leaders of the 20th century,” Pescovitz said. “[Donna Young] proofread and edited classified reports for HRB Singer, which was a pioneer and leader in technical signals and analysis of Soviet weapons systems.”
Donna and Walt Young’s first donation came in 1997 when they were appointed to the OU Foundation Board while also creating a study abroad endowment, which has helped nearly 270 students. With the Young family present, HC students thanked the donors with photos and shirts.
“My parents have always believed that true success is not measured by what you accumulate, but by what you give back,” Michelle Young, daughter of Donna and Walt Young, said. “They see the Honors College not just as a place of academic distinction, but as a dynamic community, one that fosters curiosity, empathy, resilience, and a spirit of innovation.”
The meeting was adjourned without any further items for consideration or comments from the public.
A mile in pink: Raising awareness for breast cancer
MARYAM SOMO Campus Reporter
October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the Oakland University community participated in a one mile walk to help raise awareness of the disease and support education on its cause, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure.
On Oct. 16, Henry Ford Rochester Hospital hosted a breast cancer awareness walk from 4 to 7 p.m. Before the walk, attendees had the opportunity to speak with health care professionals who were tabling in the hospital lobby. The one mile walk from the hospital to downtown Rochester began at 5 p.m. — promoted to Oakland University students by the student organization Golden Giving, offering them a chance to be part of a community effort to support breast cancer awareness.
“We’re a volunteer organization,” President Alevia Kakos said. “Something that sets our organizations apart from other organizations is that we try to base our volunteer events on the month and the awareness that the month is bringing. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so it’s part of why we choose to take part in this walk.”
Golden Giving strives to support the community while staying connected to OU students by partnering with organizations that reflect student interests and needs. Their goal is to create meaningful ways for students to give back while staying involved locally. Students in the group also help decide which organizations to work with, so the causes feel personal and relevant.
“Honestly, our club is always willing to jump
into anything,” Kakos said. “The second our vice president brought the walk to our attention and said that we should participate and share it with the rest of Oakland to see if they were willing to be part of it, we all wanted to work on making it happen. Breast cancer affects everybody, so it was one of those things where we read into it and we’re like, we are so down, no question.”
Among those in attendance were health professionals, family members, friends, as well as breast cancer survivors advocating for awareness and education about the disease.
“It makes me happy that people are being aware, because if I didn’t get my mammogram, I would
PHOTO BY MARYAM SOMO
probably be dead, or I’d be very sick,” Theresa Hornsby, a breast cancer survivor, said. “Everybody needs to get tested.”
When walkers and attendees first entered the hospital lobby, they were welcomed by an interactive table where they could pick a lollipop from a board and check the color on the bottom, which guided them to continue engaging with the display further inside the room. The tables featured information on breast cancer prevention, early detection methods, symptoms, treatment options and available resources. They were even able to ask doctors in attendance any questions or express concerns.
“For me, it’s mostly to educate patients on the appropriate screening guidelines to look for breast cancer as I’m a radiologist,” Dr. Shultz said. “That’s my big push here: to have people understand the importance of screening every year and answer any questions regarding that. There’s always a lot of misconceptions about screening mammography and the safety of it and the necessity of it.”
Breast cancer awareness events help foster community support and further the accessibility of education and resources.
“The goal is to bring awareness to younger ladies, because breast cancer is being diagnosed younger and younger, so if we can get one lady diagnosed and taken care of, that wouldn’t even have thought about it, we’ve done our job,” Teresa Jablynski, breast sonographer and mammographer, said. “You have to be proactive nowadays for everything and the sooner you learn to take care of yourself, the longer you’re going to be here for you and your family.”
Hispanic Heritage Month: Representation, collaboration and culture
RUBY HERNANDEZ Campus Reporter
Oakland University came alive this October as students, faculty and organizations joined together to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month (HHM) to honor the histories, cultures and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities. Through vibrant events and heartfelt collaboration, this year’s celebration reflected unity, pride and cultural connection.
Rebecca Mercado Jones, professor of Communication, Journalism and Public Relations, helped open and close the month’s festivities with a message of empowerment.
“I hoped to share the history and meaning of Hispanic Heritage Month and the contributions of Latine people,” Mercado Jones said. “This year has been more collaborative than ever. It brings me joy to see the pride expressed in our rich cultural heritage. We will not shrink to make others more comfortable.”
The celebration brought together several Hispanic student organizations that created spaces for connection and representation.
Jasmin Carmona-Almanza, president of the Spanish Club, said this year’s Festival del Barrio and Lotería Night highlighted the diversity within OU’s Latino community.
“Festival del Barrio truly showcased so many countries — 21 in total,” Carmona-Almanza said. “Seeing students light up when they saw their country represented was beautiful.”
For Carmona-Almanza, these events were about belonging.
“More than anything, they bring pride to our multicultural campus and allow everyone to embrace or learn about Hispanic culture,” she said.
The Spanish Club plans to continue the celebration through a film screening of “Bajo la Misma Luna” on Oct. 22 and a trip to the Detroit Institute of Arts to view Día de Muertos ofrendas.
Guadalupe Sanchez, president of Sigma Delta Pi, OU’s National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society, emphasized the importance of service and shared experiences. Her organization partnered with the Center for Multicultural Initiatives (CMI) for a volunteer event at La Casa Amiga.
“The volunteer work was a turning point for me,” Sanchez said. “These events help us show our culture
in a meaningful and educational way. My favorite moment was hearing someone say our event made them feel welcomed — that’s all I could ask for.”
The Hispanic American Leadership Organization (HALO) also helped lead the month’s events. Jenna DeVoogd, HALO’s president, said the cookout aimed to build community for Hispanic students and allies alike.
“Our main goal was to create a space where people could hang out, eat good food and celebrate culture together,” DeVoogd said. “By being consistent in promoting events and collaborating with other clubs, we reached a bigger audience.”
HALO will continue the celebration with a Día de los Muertos ofrenda displayed in Kresge Library from Nov. 3-7.
“Students can leave photos or notes for loved ones,” DeVoogd explained. “We’ll also host a workshop on October 28 about the meaning and symbolism of the ofrenda. We hope it gives students a space to celebrate and learn.”
As the celebrations wrap up, the shared message among students and faculty remains clear: representation, collaboration and cultural pride matter deeply.
“My hope is that people recognize and respect the dignity and value of Hispanic Heritage Month and the humans behind the movement,” Jones said. “There is room to celebrate all of us.”
Bianca Stepanyan, retention coordinator for CMI, echoed that spirit of togetherness.
“Hispanic Heritage Month is about building community and amplifying student voices,” she said. “The pride and collaboration we’ve seen this year are just the beginning.”
On the fence: Students question new fencing at Recreation and Athletic Outdoor Complex
REAGAN REETZ
Marketing Director
Residents of the eastern half of the Ann V. Nicholson Apartments are facing a new obstacle. Seemingly overnight, a new fence went up around the Recreation and Athletic Outdoor Complex (RAOC), which is managed by University Recreation and Well-Being (Rec Well).
The fence is blocking a longstanding shortcut for residents in the higher-numbered apartment buildings. Next to the west entrance of the 6000 Ann V. Nicholson Apartments, a crosswalk leads students onto a sidewalk that runs parallel to the Recreation Superfields.
From there, students walk diagonally across a parking lot. It’s a known time saver, passed from roommate to roommate.
A gate now blocks this sidewalk. For several days after the fence was completed, students were seen trying to open this gate from the outside but had no luck.
Without the controversy, this construction project might have gone largely unnoticed. Instead, students are left asking why.
“I feel like, as far as I know, this came out of nowhere,” junior Elizabeth Rosser said. “I just want to know what’s happening and what their actual reasoning is, because it wasn’t here one day and it was the next.”
At the beginning of the academic year, many also noticed “Protect the Turf” signs at each entrance to the fields. Some students correctly speculated that the fencing was implemented partially due to the new turf, but still found it to be a nuisance in their day-to-day.
“I think the new fencing could be beneficial as a protection method, but I find that the gate always being locked serves as an inconvenience,” sophomore Kelley Hassett said. “As an athlete, I used the sidewalk along the fields as a way to get to the O’Rena, but now I feel restricted as the gate is locked.”
As it turns out, this fencing was part of the original plan when the RAOC was constructed in 2014, according to Associate Director of University Recreation and WellBeing Marie VanBuskirk.
Rec Well has been saving its profits since opening in 1998. With that money, it was able to re-turf the Recreation Superfields and Stadium Field—an expense that cost $2.5 million —without using student tuition funds.
The Recreation Superfields and Stadium Field primarily see use from Rec Well Sports, club sports, campus departments, student organizations and community groups. The fence acts as a way to protect the costly investment in the turf and allows a reliable space for these groups, according to VanBuskirk.
“We had a little hiccup in the turf replacement that allowed us to get some money back,” VanBuskirk said. “With that money, we re-looked at the original project, and the original project, when the Recreation and Athletic Outdoor Complex was constructed, was to have the whole complex fenced, and to have better control of operations and one main entrance.”
An example of that control includes the ability to fully ticket track and field competitions. Additionally, the fence allows student employees of Rec Well to better welcome and direct people, rather than focusing on kicking people without a reservation off the fields.
“What the fence we believe will do is help us to switch from something reactive that the student employees have to react to, to being something proactive in welcoming students and guests,” VanBuskirk said.
Students can access the fields for a drop-in soccer for at least two hours each week day. VanBuskirk also assures that students hoping to make reservations for their club or organization can do so for free through an online form.
Addressing safety and accessibility concerns, VanBukirk says that they have followed all regulations and worked with the Oakland University Police Department to ensure compliance.
Nonetheless, some students are left wondering if this was the best way to handle protecting the updated Recreation Superfields.
“Protecting and maintaining new turf is understandable, but walking on the sidewalk does not affect the turf,” sophomore Grace Albrecht said.
When asked if there was a way to leave the sidewalk near the 6000 Ann V. Nicholson Apartments unenclosed, VanBuskirk said the fencing was based on the original plan for the RAOC. She also said that they worked with the fencing company and determined this to be a costeffective configuration that eliminated the need to operate the RAOC as three separate spaces– the Recreation Superfields, Outdoor Track and Tennis Courts.
“We totally expect some growing pains from this,” VanBuskirk said. “We know some people used to cut through the fields, and it’s going to be a little inconvenient, but when we are open, we will always have a way to welcome people if they arrange it in advance.”
PHOTO BY MATTHEW VIGELIUS
The reluctant leader who got things done
JAMES ELLING
Sports Editor
Leadership isn’t loud: It’s consistent. Just ask Caterina DiCosmo.
At the Charlie Kirk vigil held on Oakland’s campus, Caterina DiCosmo took the stage to tell thousands of people what the life and death of the conservative activist meant to her.
Some would say this makes her a leader.
But, about once a week you might run into Caterina DiCosmo in her element — sparking up conversations in the Oakland Center around a folding table with a tablecloth reading “Network of Enlightened Women” draped over it — or maybe you’ll see her grinding away on a spreadsheet to make sure that schedules run smoothly, running point for communication between Oakland and her parent organization, or booking a room for an event.
This, she would say, is what makes her a leader.
DiCosmo, a junior in communication, is finding her way in leadership, but she’s already found that work behind the scenes is what makes things happen — including the vigil for Charlie Kirk held at OU.
Leadership was thrust upon DiCosmo when the founder of OU’s chapter of Network of Enlightened Women, or NeW, Erika Head, asked her and another young woman to take over together. DiCosmo was initially hesitant, but she eventually took the position under one condition: she was not the president.
So, she started as the vice president.
“I was afraid that I wouldn’t be able to handle the pressure,” DiCosmo said.
A month later, DiCosmo began to believe that she could do it. A month after that, she proved it by stepping into presidency at NeW.
DiCosmo characterized the organization by professional development and social events. Their aim is to “equip, educate and empower women,” she said.
She now also serves as the treasurer for Oakland’s chapter of Turning Point USA and handles press relations for OU College Republicans.
DiCosmo credits NeW for much of her growth as a leader. The organization has helped her with time management, making connections, communication and planning — but most importantly, it has given her a sense of direction.
“NeW has really changed my life,” she said. “I came into it as an education major, and now I want to work in politics … I had this idea that I wanted to teach for the rest of my life, and that’s all I wanted to do. But the last two years I have been involved in politics, and I have loved every second of it.”
The switch from education to politics has allowed DiCosmo to feel like she’s coming into her own as a leader.
Juliana Parry, the treasurer of NeW, couldn’t stop smiling as she spoke of what makes her tend to agree.
“She’s a good leader because she’s honest,” the Oakland University senior said. “If she needs something, she’ll just ask. She’ll say what she wants to say regardless.”
Parry also repeatedly mentioned DiCosmo being a woman of her word, and her chattiness.
“She’ll have a conversation with anybody,” Parry said, “and she’s totally respectful of any viewpoint.”
Despite all the talk of DiCosmo’s character, the very first thing Parry brought up was her ability to manage a room.
“She is so organized. She brings the excel files, everything — and she brings the energy,” she said.
Her management was put to use after the shooting and death of Charlie Kirk, who DiCosmo looked up to and considered a role model of leadership.
“When I heard about Charlie, I was sitting at home doing
homework, and all the group chats I’m a part of were blowing up,” DiCosmo said. “I didn’t believe it. I didn’t want to believe it.”
When reality set in, DiCosmo sought to honor Kirk with a vigil. She decided there were no vigils close enough to home, so she planned to have one at Oakland University.
“I was thinking there would be 50 to 80 people,” DiCosmo said, laughing.
“It was really important to her,” Parry said. “She didn’t care how big it was, she just wanted to honor the man.”
Perhaps this is what made the event successful — apparently a few others wanted to honor the man too. Word of the event traveled quickly around social media, and people from all over the political spectrum took notice.
As the attention snowballed, so did the stress.
DiCosmo had planned a few big events before — but then she had weeks to plan, and this time she had days.
“I’m not gonna sugarcoat it; it was very hard.” she said. “There were a lot of moments where I really questioned if we should do it.”
DiCosmo recounted worrying about everything from space to safety to having enough candles, but true leaders refuse to bow to logistics — they make things happen. So, she ultimately decided that she had to proceed, despite the stress that came with it.
“As soon as we realized how much it had been shared, we made the decision to heighten security, and to take the steps to protect everybody.”
For her, it was the right thing to do.
The decision resulted in the controversial presence of 100 uniformed officers as well as private security, gunmen on the nearby roofs and officers out of uniform.
Well over 1,000 people attended the event. It proceeded
as planned, with support from people coming in and out, and peaceful protests from those who felt the event overshadowed a larger scale issue of gun violence in the United States.
“I honestly wasn’t really sure if I wanted to go to the vigil,” senior Rachel Stroia said, “but actually being there was super sweet.”
“I knew it would be powerful, I didn’t realize how emotional it would be,” she said. “But it was so emotional to see every inch of the sidewalk on campus packed with people who were showing support, in prayer together — I’m so glad we could do that without any problems.”
Stroia said she left the night feeling emboldened to be vocal — about her beliefs, yes, but also in general.
“Open dialogue is absolutely necessary, even if it ends up stirring something up,” Stroia said, “we shouldn’t shy away from conversation just because we’re uncomfortable.”
At the vigil, DiCosmo challenged Generation Z to be the generation that rises above political violence and breaks the divisive cycle it’s been left with.
DiCosmo considers the vigil a huge success. It happened, not because she wanted to get numbers, but because she wanted to be real. Because she wanted to do what she thought was right.
DiCosmo’s viewpoints are inherently controversial, as pretty much everything in politics is. Her leadership doesn’t have to be, though.
DiCosmo didn’t set out to lead a movement. She set out to book a room, print a flyer and make sure the candles didn’t run out — the small things.
But somewhere between the spreadsheets and the speeches, she became the kind of leader people follow — not because she demands it, but because she put in the work.
PHOTO COURTSY OF CATERINA DICOSMO
Oakland’s Elvis
MADISON SHORT Features Reporter
Oakland University student Skyler Janiszewski, known around campus as the on-campus Elvis Presley tribute artist, opened up about his journey as a performer and how it has shaped the person he is today.
Janiszewski said when the Austin Butler-starring biopic “Elvis” was released in 2022, he was at a crossroads in his creative life, unsure of what direction to take as an actor and entertainer.
“It just transformed me,” he said of the film. Though he had admired Elvis before seeing the film, watching it gave him a newfound confidence in his creative vision for the future.
Presently, Janiszewski wears many hats – actor, singer, musician and model – carrying the King’s influence into each of his creative pursuits. While much of his musical inspiration comes from Presley, he also looks up to artists such as Michael Jackson, James Brown and Louis Armstrong.
February saw the release of his debut single, an original song entitled “Shot Through The Heart.” The song channels a retro sound reminiscent of his idols while introducing his own rockabilly-inflected vocal style.
His second original single “That Ain’t My Baby,” was released in September. The song leans further on classic rockabilly lyrics and instrumentation, and the listener could easily mistake Janiszewski’s strikingly faithful vocal performance for that of Elvis’ own.
He said performing has always been a part of who he is. Throughout grade school, he was known as the class clown, always trying to brighten someone’s day. It wasn’t until high school that he began taking performance seriously, honing his acting chops by performing in local theater productions and, recently, a minor television role.
Elvis’ image is a major inspiration for both Janiszewski’s sound and his look. Though he dresses for himself, many of his personal style and clothing choices overlap with Presley’s.
“I like a lot of his fashion choices,” he said.
Janiszewski said he never sets out to “dress up” as Elvis on campus but sometimes leans into the look when the mood strikes. He enjoys dressing well and believes style is a reflection of identity – an expression both of who he is and who he hopes to be.
He describes his look as “superstar fashion,” dressing for the future he envisions for himself. His wardrobe, he said, is one way he expresses his personality and ambition.
Now, Janiszewski believes he is stepping into the purpose God has planned for him: “to entertain people and to bring people joy.” He hopes to become a positive role model through his music, acting and storytelling.
“My main thing is, I want to bring people joy,” he said.
He plans to do so through both acting and musical performance, creating entertainment that uplifts and connects with audiences.
His ultimate goal is to perform live with a band of his own, leaving audiences feeling inspired and happier than when they arrived.
The way Janiszewski has drawn inspiration from Elvis to guide his own life, he said, is something he hopes to pass on to others.
“I love just trying to get people into a better spot,” he said.
Artist Matthew Craven shares creative journey at OU Art Gallery
ADDISON KOCH
Features Reporter
On Wednesday, Oct. 15, Oakland University affiliates and members of the local community gathered to hear artist Matthew Craven discuss his creative journey during a talk at the Oakland University Art Gallery. The event was held in conjunction with the exhibition “System and Sequence: Pattern and Ornament in Contemporary Art,” now on view at OUAG.
Originally from Dunton, Michigan, Craven shared his path from attending a high school without art classes to becoming an internationally recognized artist. Growing up in a rural town, he had little access to art education and originally planned to become an elementary school teacher, following in his mother’s footsteps. That plan changed when he went to college.
“I met people who were just as obsessed with making things as I was,” he said. “That sense of community pushed me to take art way more seriously.”
After earning his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, Craven moved to Detroit, working as a fine art technician while holding side jobs and building connections that shaped his early career.
“Detroit taught me how to be an artist, not just an art student,” he said.
Craven later moved to New York City to pursue his Master of Fine Arts degree at the School of Visual Arts. There, he began experimenting with collage, blending historical works with modern patterns to develop his own signature style. His work has since been exhibited in galleries across the United States and internationally,
from San Francisco to Dubai.
Despite his success, Craven remains grounded in the values that shaped his early career: community, adaptability and persistence. He encouraged students to practice consistently, embrace experimentation and stay open to change.
“You can’t fake practice,” he said. “The more you make, the more you learn who you are as an artist.”
Craven also spoke about how one’s environment influences creativity. Each move – from Michigan to New York to California and back – shifted his perspective and artistic approach.
“Where you are always finds its way into what you make,” he said.
He spoke candidly about the pressure artists face to keep evolving.
“Everyone wants a show, right? That first show, it’s amazing. But what’s harder is the second show. And even harder than that is the third,” Craven said. “You start asking yourself, ‘Am I going to do the same work?’ You don’t want to, but sometimes that’s what people expect. The trick is to stay open, to communicate and trust yourself.”
Craven admitted that insecurity comes with the territory of being an artist.
“Being insecure about your art practice is just as much a part of being an artist as being creative,” he said. “We all act like we know what we’re doing, but we don’t – and that’s life. That’s not a flaw.”
After 15 years of nonstop creation, Craven said making art remains the greatest joy of his life. His fascination with mark-making, patterns and textures connects deeply to his sense of comfort and belonging.
“I’ve always been drawn to the history of ornamentation, sculptures, textiles – all those things humans have made for centuries,” he said. “There’s something familiar and grounding about them. We’re all searching for home, for comfort, for things that feel familiar.”
PHOTO COURTSY OF MATTHEW CRAVEN
PHOTO BY SKYLER JANISZEWSKI
Pistons partnership engagement manager discusses a career in sports
ADDISON KOCH Features Reporter
On Tuesday, Oct. 14, students interested in breaking into the sports industry got an inside look at what it takes during a meeting of the Future Sports Development Network at Oakland University. The group welcomed guest speaker Meg Maurer, partnership engagement manager for the Detroit Pistons, who shared advice on networking, career building and finding balance in the fast-paced world of sports.
Graduating from OU during the pandemic, she faced a lack of sports-related opportunities but refused to let that stop her.
“It’s weird being back,” Maurer said, laughing as she began her talk. “When I was here, there was nothing sports-related – no majors, no minors, no clubs. I had to find my own way.”
That path began with a yearlong internship in digital marketing and social media for the United Shore Professional Baseball League.
“They didn’t have much of a social media presence at the time,” she said. “I basically started from scratch, which was terrifying, but also one of the best experiences I could have asked for.”
After her internship, Maurer joined the Detroit Red Wings as part of their “Red Patrol,” a street team focused on fan engagement. From there, she continued exploring the industry, taking a summer internship with the Northwoods League in Wisconsin – an opportunity she described as “the best learning experience” of her early career.
“Even if you don’t want to work in baseball, I always tell students to look into the Northwoods League,” she said. “You learn everything – marketing, event planning, game operations – and it pushes you completely out of your comfort zone.”
That willingness to take risks led her to Bismarck, North Dakota, where she accepted a full-time position as the Director of Fun for the Bismarck Larks baseball team.
“Yes, that was actually my title,” she said with a laugh. “I moved 20 hours away to be the Director of Fun.”
In Bismarck, Maurer created game scripts, activations and on-field entertainment for fans – an experience she described as both exciting and eye-opening.
“It was wild, but it also showed me what I didn’t want to do,” she said. “And that’s just as valuable. I realized my real passion was working with people and building relationships.”
That realization led her to sponsorships and partnership engagement, a role that would become her long-term career path. After two seasons with the Larks, Maurer moved closer to home, working with the Lansing Lugnuts before landing her current position with the Pistons, where she is now entering her third season.
As a partnership engagement manager, Maurer serves as the go-between for sponsors and the Pistons organization, managing contracts, signage, tickets and ingame activations.
“I’m basically the middle person between our sales team and our partners,” she said. “My job is about communication and making sure every part of a sponsor’s deal comes to life during the season.”
Maurer emphasized the importance of adaptability and patience when finding a career niche.
“It’s really rare to get your dream job right out of college,” she said. “I switched what I wanted to do in sports four different times before I found what really stuck. Be open to failing, trying new things and changing directions.”
She closed by encouraging students to stay determined and positive as they pursue their goals.
“Everyone’s path looks different,” Maurer said. “If you stay persistent and surround yourself with good people, you’ll get where you’re supposed to be.”
OU FSPN aims to build career pathways in sports industry
MADISON SHORT
Features Reporter
The Future Sports Professionals Network, a new student organization at Oakland University, was founded with a goal of connecting students interested in careers within the sports industry with industry figures and opportunities. Meetings are open to all students, regardless of major.
“If they want to work in marketing or the creative field, operations, analytics – literally anything – there’s a place for you at FSPN,” Ava Webb, president of the organization, said.
Webb wanted to become more involved on campus outside of her internship with the sports department. When she searched for sports-related organizations at OU and found none, she decided to create one. She teamed up with three other students who also hope to work in the sports industry, forming the executive board for FSPN.
Establishing the organization took time and effort, Webb said, but now that the training is complete and paperwork finalized, she is eager to move forward.
Webb’s goal is to engage students with professionals in the sports industry so they can begin building connections that may lead to future opportunities. In addition to bringing in guest speakers, she wants FSPN meetings to offer an atmosphere of authenticity in which students can ask questions and have genuine conversations.
“I’m a firm believer that if you want to work in the sports industry, you won’t come upon anything by luck, but by building connections and gaining experience in the field,” she said.
PHOTO BY AVA WEBB
Building experience, Webb added, is key to career growth. She plans to hold a résumé and portfolio workshop at a future meeting to help students find ways to get involved through job shadowing or internships.
Webb said gaining hands-on experience is especially important considering OU’s limited sports presence in comparison to certain other universities.
“Providing people with that experience and also motivating them is significant,” she said.
She also recognizes that some students may feel discouraged if they have limited professional experience.
“Some students may only have their high school jobs on their résumé,” Webb said. “But that doesn’t mean you can’t apply – that doesn’t mean you can’t present yourself as an ideal candidate for these internships.”
Helping students build connections and résumés, as well as exposing them to the range of positions available in the industry, is at the heart of FSPN’s mission.
Careers in sports extend far beyond coaching or management, Webb said. From photography to analytics, marketing and operations, the field offers a wide variety of roles. The more experience students gain, the better they can identify where they see themselves in the future.
FSPN focuses on mentorship, networking and creating opportunities for students interested in the sports industry.
“If you want to work in sports, there’s a position for you,” Webb said.
As the group continues to grow, future meeting dates will be shared on the organization’s Instagram page, @fspnoakland.
PHOTO COURTSY OF FSPNOAKLAND
On Monday, Oct. 13, Brooklyn-based indie rock band Geese delivered a triumphant, sold-out headlining show at the Majestic Theater, marking another high point in their skyrocketing career.
The Detroit performance came less than two weeks after the band appeared on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” on Oct. 1, performing their single “Taxes” from their newly released third studio album “Getting Killed.” The appearance followed Kimmel’s return to television on Tuesday, Sept. 23, nearly a week after his suspension earlier that month. The timing gave the group a boost in national attention just as their Getting Killed World Tour was set to begin on Friday, Oct. 10 in support of the album.
Opening the evening’s show was Racing Mount Pleasant, an Ann Arbor-based indie group set to open for Geese through the remainder of the first leg of the tour. Their evocative alternative rock and indie folk sound has been compared to such acts as Bon Iver and Black Country, New Road.
The group variously incorporated shimmering guitars, sympathetic vocals and mellow violin, but tenor saxophonist Samuel Uribe Botero stole the spotlight with a commanding solo on the band’s second-to-last song. His performance drew even louder cheers from the standing crowd, tightly packed but thoroughly pleased.
The 1100-capacity venue erupted when Geese took the stage. Frontman and rhythm guitarist and keyboardist Cameron Winter led the charge with “Husbands,” backed by dense, funky drumming and a pulsing bassline. The set leaned heavily on “Getting Killed,” with standout performances of “Hundred Horses,” “Taxes” and “Long Island City Here I Come.”
Midway through the set, the band expanded “2122” with an interlude out of left field – a cover of Pink Floyd’s pioneering 1968 instrumental “Interstellar Overdrive” – before crashing back into their own driving rhythm. Touring keyboardist Sam Revaz even showcased his skill on the divisive keytar. The blend of precision and chaos in their arrangements indicated a consistently unpredictable, experimental streak.
After finishing “Mysterious Love,” Winter paused to take in the moment. “This is the biggest headlining show we’ve played,” he told the audience, thanking fans for selling out the venue. Some fans had driven from as far as Ohio to catch the band live. His words drew one of the loudest cheers of the night.
Moments later, Winter and drummer Max Bassin broke into a spontaneous bongo jam, trading rhythms under careening stage lights. The improvised segment spurred a communal burst of energy before the group exited the stage to raucous applause.
By audience demand, they returned after a few minutes for an encore. Winter tilted his microphone stand down and sat cross-legged at the edge of the stage for a soft, strippeddown performance of “Domoto.” “3D Country” brought the energy back up to a fever pitch, closing with knotty, groovebased album opener “Trinidad.” Winter’s lyrical refrain of “there’s a bomb in my car!” sent the developing mosh pit in the crowd’s center into a whirl, a fitting end to the night.
By the final chord, both the band and audience looked exhilarated. Several dozen sweaty moshers composed themselves as the band issued a final thanks and departed the stage.
For Geese, the Detroit show was far more than their third stop – it was a triumph. The band’s sharp musicianship, relentless risk-taking and innate sense of humor has carried them from Brooklyn’s basement venues to the national spotlight. With their first world tour underway, Geese has shown they are no longer a mere band to watch, but a band that has, in full force, undeniably arrived.
story and photos by Cael Tanner graphic by August Wicker
Performers take the stage at OU’s new midday concert series
MARYAM SOMO Campus Reporter
On Oct. 16, “Arts at Noon” hosted its second show of the season, featuring four unique performances by students studying piano, voice, guitar and saxophone. Some acts were solo, while others were duets, giving the audience a nice mix of styles and sounds. The hour-long concert offered a relaxed and intimate experience, with a small crowd enjoying the talent on display.
In September of 2025, Oakland University’s School of Music, Theatre and Dance launched a new concert series called Arts at Noon. The series takes place in Varner Recital Hall once every month on Thursdays. OU students, faculty, staff and community members are encouraged to attend the free concerts for a relaxing midday break to watch student performances.
Arts at Noon is a collaborative thing among all the music faculty, run by Alta Dantzler,” Bret Hoag, special lecturer of classical and jazz guitar, said. “Any student who is preparing for a recital, or just testing something out, or just wants to perform, this is the venue for that.”
Although the concert series is designed for the OU community to enjoy free performances during a break in their day, it also gives students in the School of Music, Theatre and Dance a great opportunity to practice performing in front of an audience before more formal recitals.
“Performers can work out the kinks beforehand,
there’s the etiquette, what it feels like to wear a formal dress or suit, and any of that stuff,” Hoag said. “The more that performers perform categorically, they get better by osmosis and by work and all other stuff, they learn what feels good or doesn’t.”
The first performer of the concert was Yuhan Wei, a senior piano performance major. She played two solo pieces that she had been practicing and perfecting for about two months. This was her first time performing these pieces in front of an audience.
“I think especially for piano performance majors
it’s very important to have experience performing in front of a big or small audience, just to get a sense of what it’s like to perform and get ready for a formal performance,” Wei said
The third performance featured Jack Murphy, a junior music technology student. He played a solo guitar piece that he had only performed a few times in front of his guitar ensemble at OU but hadn’t yet played in front of a larger audience.
“I think I walked away a little bit more confident in myself and being able to be on stage and not freak out,” Murphy said. “I feel like it wasn’t really something to be that nervous about since it was such a small audience, but I think it helped me improve by practicing this piece more.”
Arts at Noon is a great way to highlight the wide range of talent at OU, giving student performers a chance to showcase their skills in a supportive setting. It not only introduces the campus community to the work happening in the School of Music, Theatre and Dance, but also provides performers with valuable experience on stage, helping them grow more comfortable, confident and connected to their music.
“I think it’s a really important and incredibly valuable thing,” Hoag said. “The only way to practice what it feels like to be on stage is to do it. So I think this is an incredibly important thing to get ready for other stuff and to see what feels comfortable and what doesn’t feel comfortable.”
The next concert of the series will be on Nov. 13, and the continuing concerts will be posted on the OU events calendar or through the Art at Noon calendar.
PHOTO BY LINDSEY SOBKOWSKI
Golden film recommendations: Classics for cozy Halloween
MARIA MAGNOLI & MARISSA GETSCHMAN
The leaves are red, the pumpkins are carved and the parties are planned. Halloween is just around the corner, and the time has come to break out the classics. No spooky season is complete without a Halloween movie marathon. Here are four classic family-friendly films to get anyone in the mood for a nostalgic spook-fest.
“The Little Vampire” (2000)
For a cozy take on Halloween media, consider “The Little Vampire.” The movie follows two little boys, human Tony Thompson and vampire Rudolph Sackville-Bagg, who share the friendship of a century. Rudolph and his family long for nothing more than to be human and live in the sunlight and Tony does everything in his 9-year-old power to help his new friend achieve just that. Set in Scotland, the story is riddled with breathtaking views and castles that perfectly accompany the timeless draw of a good vampire tale.
No good Halloween film is without a fitting villain and the one and only Jim Carter answered the call for “The Little Vampire.” He plays the vampire hunter Rookery who is just silly enough in his endeavor to keep the vampires as they are that he fits perfectly alongside the child-lead cast while still keeping viewers rooting for his downfall.
“Coraline” (2009)
This stop-motion animation may be rated PG, but it is definitely eerier than that. Coraline is a young
girl, unsatisfied with her living conditions and inattentive parents. She discovers a parallel universe where everything seems wonderful: her parents pay attention to her and cook her favorite meals; it is the perfect life to her. However, one element remains peculiar — her parents’ button eyes. Her “other mother” and “other father” express their wishes to sew buttons in her eyes, and Coraline realizes that the “other world” is a trap.
Her mother is a supernatural being known as the “Beldam”, who captures Coraline’s real parents and the souls of many children. Along the way, she gets help from a black cat and her friend Wybie who must outmaneuver the Beldam in her sinister ways. For an unsettling plot line with a pretty cool film style, watch Coraline this Halloween season.
“Hocus Pocus” (1993)
“Hocus Pocus” is a classic so beloved, it managed
to resurrect itself nearly 30 years after the original film was released and it is the perfect story to get into the spooky season vibe. Set in the infamous Salem, Massachusetts, where the veil between real magic and hocus pocus is thinnest, a team of unlikely heroes featuring 3 kids and a 300-year-old cat must band together to save the town from the fabulously evil Sanderson Sisters after one-such kid lights the legendary black flame candle. For many, the Kenny Ortega directed film has become an annual rewatch to be brought out with the decor.
“Beetlejuice” (1988)
Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice!
For a movie packed with strange, unusual and laughs in between, “Beetlejuice” is an excellent choice. This all-star cast — Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, Catherine O’Hara, Alec Baldwin and Geena Davis — takes the audience through lots of twists and turns. Adam and Barbara Maitland, a happy couple living in Connecticut, get into a fatal car accident and return to their home as ghosts. While attempting to adapt to their new life, the Deetz family moves in.
In a mission to scare the family out of their home, the Maitland’s summon the bio-exorcist Betelgeuse, found inside a diorama upstairs in the attic. Lydia, the “strange and unusual” of Delia and Charles Deetz, befriends the Maitlands, and together they try to get rid of Betelgeuse after realizing that his intentions are not good. The film recently aired a sequel last year in September, where Beetlejuice made his return. For those into more comedic Halloween films, this is it.
DIA celebrates the past, present and future of Anishinaabe art
SARAH WASIELEWSKI Arts Reporter
For the first time in more than 30 years, the Detroit Institute of Arts is hosting a major exhibition of Native American art. Through April 5, 2026, visitors can experience “Contemporary Anishinaabe Art: A Continuation,” a remarkable collection of over 90 pieces of art by 60 Anishinaabe artists from around the Great Lakes region.
The exhibition features a diverse range of mediums including basketry, birchbark artistry, beadwork, clothing, film, graphic design, jewelry, painting, pottery, sculpture and woodwork, all reflecting the richness and resilience of Anishinaabe culture. The collection was curated with guidance from an advisory council of Ojibwe, Ottawa and Potawatomi artists, ensuring an authentic and community led perspective.
To honor the artists’ heritage, the exhibition gallery’s labels are also translated into Anishinaabemowin, an original language of the Great Lakes area. Visitors who present tribal-issued identification may enter the exhibit for free.
While many think of museums as places that preserve history, the Detroit Institute of Arts also works to showcase the present-day experiences of the Anishinaabe artists. The exhibition celebrates not only ancestral techniques but also the innovation and selfexpression of today’s artists. It is an exhibition that bridges past, present and future, honoring traditions passed down through generations while embracing new artistic forms and technologies.
In tandem with the exhibition, the Detroit Institute of Arts also hosted two screenings of “Anangong Miigaading,” the Anishinaabemowin dubbed version of “Star Wars: A New Hope” complete with English subtitles. The project, also available on Disney+ Canada, represents groundbreaking work in language revitalization.
It is estimated that only a thousand fluent speakers of Anishinaabemowin remain today. By presenting a globally recognized film in the language, advocates hope to inspire renewed interest and learning among younger generations.
Long before Michigan became a U.S. state, the region was home to the Anishinaabe. In the treaty of 1807, the U.S. government forced these tribes to relinquish vast tracts of land for just two cents an acre, the equivalent of 52 cents an acre in today’s dollars.
Even today, much of Michigan’s land bears this legacy. Oakland University, for instance, sits on land that once belonged to the Anishinaabe. The university
recognizes this in its Land Acknowledgement Statement on the OU website, acknowledging that the university sits on ancestral, traditional and contemporary lands of the Anishinaabe.
As part of efforts toward healing and education, several OU professors have successfully worked to establish a Native American Heritage Site on campus. The site includes a gathering area and fire pit, traditional gardens and pawpaw tree plantings, serving as a living tribute to Indigenous heritage and resilience.
More than an art show, the Detroit Institute of Arts’s new exhibition is a celebration of continuity. Each basket, painting or beadwork piece tells a story that extends across centuries, connecting ancestral craftsmanship to the creativity of today’s artists. Through its collaborative curation, language integration and cultural programming, “Contemporary Anishinaabe Art: A Continuation” reaffirms that Anishinaabe art is not confined to the past, but is vibrant, relevant and thriving.
PHOTO COURTESY OF IMDb
The Tapestry Scholarship: An act of love and music
MARIA MAGNOLI Arts Reporter
The Oakland University School of Education and Human Services (SEHS) has awarded scholarships on Sept. 26 to three students pursuing bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees.
The Tapestry Scholarship for Organizational Leadership and Human Resource Development was granted to Amy Rowan (B.S. in Human Resource Development,) Jillian Gumz (Master of Organizational Leadership) and Victoria Dela Adeborna (Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership). Proud recipients of the endowed and merit-based scholarship, the students reflected in gratitude of this tremendous financial support.
“I was so excited. It helps reduce the amount that I have to pay for my tuition, but at the same time, it’s an opportunity that’s created that I can also give one day,” Dela Adeborna said.
“This is the recognition of my hard work, dedication and the belief others see in me; it gives me confidence to keep pursuing my goals,” Rowan said. “This scholarship also alleviates my financial burden, allowing me to focus more on studies, personal growth and hopefully graduating debt-free.”
This fund was established six years ago by a long-standing professor in OU’s Department of Organizational Leadership and his wife, David Strubler, human resource development professor and author of the book “The ‘Good Politics’ of Interdependent Leadership.” Strubler has been affiliated with the university for 42 years.
A Rochester native, Strubler is invested in serving students along their quest in higher education.
“I wanted to give back to Oakland. This is where I met my wife … where we started our life together and raised our kids. My son got his master’s in counseling right on the same floor I’m on. We’re really integrated into Oakland … that was our motivation to give back,” Strubler said.
His wife, Ann, grew up in Minnesota. Moving to Michigan for high school, she studied violin at the Interlochen Center for the Arts. An esteemed musician, she pursued a bachelor’s in music with honors in Violin Performance at the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, Massachusetts succeeded by a master’s in music in Violin Performance at Boston University.
In 1980, she was offered a position in the Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) as a first violinist, performing for 30 years. From 1964 to 1991, Meadow Brook Theatre served as the summer residence for the DSO, which is where she met David.
“He was always at Meadowbrook. Around 1982, I met him at an intermission of one of the concerts, and my stand partner, Glenn, who knew him very well, introduced us. We ended up getting married and just celebrated our 41st wedding anniversary,” Ann said.
The scholarship was named after a documentary made about her by her son, Michael Strubler, and David Jouppi. “The Tapestry Story: A Musician’s Journey” illustrates her musical and spiritual life as an adoptee, leading her back to her birth parents.
Ann’s birth mother recalled a memory from the day her daughter was picked up for adoption.
“My mind was momentarily distracted over to the side lawn, and I noticed all these beautiful autumn
leaves lying there in a pattern that looked like a patchwork quilt or a beautiful piece of tapestry,” she said.
Ann’s biological grandfather was a violinist in the Chicago Symphony and drummer in the famous marching band of John Philip Sousa. The score to the hymn “Great Thy Faithful” was mailed to her from her birth mother before they met. Her biological father, an entertainment musician, had played with Frank Sinatra.
Her uncle, one of the first graduates from the Berklee College of Music, received his diploma from Duke Ellington. And her husband’s love of music is what brought him to Meadow Brook Theatre so frequently, proving that music connected her to the people she loves most.
“Everybody is writing their own tapestry. Everyone is in the midst of their own story,” Ann said.
Tales of love and generosity like the Strublers are what contribute to OU’s thriving environment. This year, 111 scholarships were presented to SEHS students. It is one of nine academic schools at the university.
“Every year, OU opens its OU Annual Scholarship application from December 1 to March 1, which gives students an opportunity to apply for over 350 endowed and departmental scholarships with one application,” Nicole Boelk, director of financial aid and scholarships, said.
Gen Z: bringing back the analog
SARAH WASIELEWSKI Arts Reporter
In an age of instant streaming, infinite scrolling and cloud storage, it might seem strange that so many Generation Z are turning back to analog media. While tech seems to be reaching new heights with eyeglasses that capture video and self-driving cars that make the real world feel like a spy thriller, younger people are more interested in the analog.
For Gen Z, analog is not just about nostalgia. It is a creative, emotional and even political choice quietly rebelling against the convenience of the digital world.
Vinyl records have returned with a force, reshaping how young people listen to music. Listening to a record requires participation and presence. Instead of mindlessly letting a playlist of hundreds or thousands of songs shuffle, listeners must lift the needle and take the record off before choosing a new song.
Seeing the growing stack of records on a shelf forces listeners to think about what music truly matters to them. Artists have noticed, often releasing special edition vinyls with custom artwork or hidden tracks. According to the Recording Industry Association of America, record sales have grown dramatically from less than one million records sold in 2006 to 43.6 million EP and LPs sold in 2024. Photography is another medium going through an analog revival. While smartphone cameras now rival professional cameras, Gen Z is reaching backward
and opting for film or disposable cameras. A grainy, slightly blurry picture is no longer a mistake but rather the mood. Slight imperfections become marks of authenticity in a world dominated by filters and editing apps.
Instant cameras such as Polaroid have made a comeback as well, with the thrill of holding a photo in hand immediately. Disposable cameras
are tossed into a bag before taking a vacation, with the anticipation of seeing the results weeks later becoming part of the experience. With limited exposures, each shot counts. Instead of instant gratification and hundreds of selfies, users must slow down and pick each shot carefully.
This return to the analog is not just about looking cool. It is a response to digital overload in a world where everything feels fleeting and flat. Between constant notifications and an endless feed that can suck a viewer in for hours, many Gen Z start feeling detached from the real world.
The analog serves as a way to ground oneself again with real, tangible items that last. There is also a deeper longing for permanence. The digital world can often feel ephemeral as files get deleted, links disappear and trends vanish overnight, while a vinyl record or printed photograph will always be there.
In truth, Gen Z’s love of the analog does not replace digital. Rather, they complement each other. It is not about choosing one or the other but rather using both intentionally. The analog renaissance is less about a longing for the past but more about redefining the present. In the blur of a digital life, slowing down to flip a record is not about regression but slowing down to create meaning in the present.
PHOTO COURTESY OF PIXABAY
Americans urge again for ‘No Kings’
SOPHIA CURRAN Political Editor
On Oct. 18, millions of Americans across the country came together to protest against President Donald Trump and his current administration.
Formed again by the organizers of No Kings, numbers of Americans have increased dramatically since the first set of protests that took place back in June, in which over five million protestors organized over 2,100 protests across the country.
On the No Kings website, the movement expressed its reason for wanting to create another day for protesting against the current White House administration.
“In June, millions of everyday Americans from every walk of life peacefully took to the streets and declared with one voice: No Kings. The world saw the power of the people, and President Trump’s attempt at a coronation collapsed under the strength of a movement rising against his abuses,” it said.
On June 14, the first No Kings protests occurred the same day as the White House’s military parade celebrating the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary — an event that occurred on President Trump’s birthday but reportedly had no correlation.
The No Kings organizers felt the need to create another day of protesting after President Trump’s decision to deploy the National Guard on American cities and over his economic choices as well.
“Now, he’s doubling down — sending militarized agents into our communities, silencing voters and handing billionaires giveaways while families struggle,” the organizers said. “This isn’t just politics, it’s democracy versus dictatorship. And together, we’re choosing democracy.”
Organizers of the protests recommended that those who join them wear yellow as a way to demonstrate their unity, calling it a “bright, unmistakable reminder that millions of us stand together in the belief that America belongs to its people not to kings.”
Globally, the color yellow has been used as a symbol of hope for the future and a signifier against violence. One of the most notable instances has been the yellow ribbon often worn by Ukrainians during their ongoing war against Russia.
In a study conducted by Pew Research Center, nearly seven-in-ten Americans feel that President Trump is projecting more power than presidents before him, with 49% of those arguing that it is not good for the country.
In San Francisco, protestors came together to form the words “NO KINGS” and “YES ON 50” with an American flag in the middle of the demonstration.
“YES ON 50” refers to Proposition 50, which if voted, California would be able to create a new congressional map favoring Democrats until 2030. Under Assembly Bill 604, California’s inland and southern districts would become more Democrat leaning, while Republican-dominant Districts 3 and 5 would be formed into one district.
If successful, the decision will counteract congressional mappings projected to increase Texas’ Republican seats during this upcoming election by increasing California’s Democratic seats in the U.S. House of Representatives.
President Trump responded to the protests, arguing that he is “not a king,” instead remarking,
“I work my ass off to make our country great. That’s all it is. I’m not a king at all.”
“I looked at the people. They’re not representative of this country, and I looked at all the brand new signs paid for. I guess it was paid for by Soros and other radical left lunatics,” President Trump said. “It looks like it was worth checking out. The demonstrations were very small, very ineffective and the people were whacked out. When you look at those people, those are not representative of the people of our country.”
The president’s claim against Soros refers to Hungarian-American investor and philanthropist George Soros. Soros is one of the biggest donors to the protests, specifically through the Open Society Foundations, founded by Soros.
Of the millions protesting, that included Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.).
Sen. Sanders has been traveling across the country with his “Fighting Oligarchy” tour, in which he has repeatedly criticized the current administration and its collaboration with wealthy businessmen, such as Elon Musk.
Sanders responded to House Leader Mike Johnson’s remarks that the rallies taking place are “hate America” events.
“Boy does he have it wrong,” Sanders said. “Millions of Americans are coming out today not because they hate America, we’re here because we love America. We’re here because we are going to do everything we can to honor the sacrifices of millions of men and women, who over the last 250 years, fought and sometimes died to defend our democracy and freedoms.”
In Michigan, thousands formed in large crowds to protest against authoritarianism, with over 100 demonstrations taking place all across the state.
Brian Szmytke, senior advisor and finance chair of Oakland County’s Republican Party, argued against claims that President Trump was a king.
“The fact is that in this country, we don’t have a king. Donald Trump was elected with a mandate, both popular vote and the electoral college. He’s doing exactly what he ran on,” Szmytke said.
Mallory McMorrow, a Democratic member of Michigan’s Senate and representative of Michigan’s 8th district, attended a rally at Roosevelt Park in Detroit and expressed her concern regarding President Trump’s stance on security and his current actions towards controlling illegal immigration.
“Security is essential, but what we are seeing is nothing but security theater,” McMorrow said. “ They are not going after cartels. They are not going after violent criminals. They’re going after moms who are trying to stay with their babies. They are going after day laborers. They are going after agriculture workers, and they are invading our communities in a way that actually makes us less safe.”
It is reported that more than seven million Americans participated, with over 2,700 protests taking place in all 50 states — including the District of Columbia. Millions now are left to wonder whether this act of unity will bring Americans together or divide us even more.
Israel-Hamas ceasefire: the impact of American intervention
MATILDE RABAJOLI
Political Reporter
From Oct. 10 onward, the first phases of the Israel-Gaza Ceasefire were set in motion.
The Israel-Palestine conflict has been raging on, attracting the attention of humans all over the world. It has brought its news of death and destruction for now a second year from its anniversary of the Hamas attack on Southern Israel on Oct 7, 2023.
Protests in regards to sending aid and ending the bloodshed in Palestine have been on a rise recently, with also the actions of the Global Sumud Flotilla — the sailing aid that reached the Gaza strip in search of providing humanitarian aid.
News of a break in the war has finally reached a more secure way due to the U.S. position in working on validating a ceasefire that would actually lead to peaceful negotiations of ending the war once and for all.
It was first confirmed when the U.S. and the administration of President Trump helped broker an agreement that they would establish as the first sign of peace. Khalil al-Hayya, the chief negotiator for Hamas, confirmed that Israel and Hamas had “reached an agreement to end the war.”
The negotiations of a peace summit occurred in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. They were mediated by Qatar and Egypt delegates who worked to use the U.S. peace plan to fully cement the ceasefire and stop further attacks or violence.
President Trump sees the negotiations going
forward and the ceasefire holding as “everybody is happy, and I think it’s going to stay that way.”
Oakland University’s own Political Science professor and Chair of the Department, Dr. Peter Trumbore, spoke in an interview with Fox 2 Detroit.
“What was accomplished today was the easy part. This is what both sides could agree on now, that both sides wanted now and that pushes all the really, incredibly difficult questions down the road
to some unspecified future date. So, while I would like to be as optimistic as the President was today, and tell your viewers that this does represent some new dawn in the Middle East, I think it’s way too premature to go there,” Thumbore said.
Furthermore, on The Pulse, he stated that there are many things left uncovered and pushed onward that leaders will have to navigate after the initial ceasefire is reconciled. Such as “a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, the question of whether or not Hamas will disarm, the question of what future role if any Hamas will have in Gaza, how Gaza is to be governed…”
The first moments following the announcement of ceasefire were ones that, like many other conflicts before, still held some resistance. Though hostages, both alive and deceased, have been released from both sides, there were still some skirmishes left between the territories.
Another 26 victims have been added to the tally of the dead, after what was said to be a “blatant violation” of the Truce by Hamas, Israeli forces struck again. It is noted that ceasefires often hold these lasting dangers in their first months of existence, but President Trump said he would ensure the ceasefires still stand and progress.
“Either way … it’s going to be handled toughly but properly,” the president said.
After over 70 years of ongoing conflict and thousands of deaths, there is still much action to be taken to ensure that both territories are at peace.
PHOTO COURTESY TO REUTERS
Red hot Wings off to inspiring start
MATT LEWAKOWSKI Sports Reporter
Five games into the fresh NHL season, the Detroit Red Wings might be the hottest team in the league.
This team has brought their fans excitement and hopes of a push for the playoffs.
The Red Wings have not made the playoffs in over nine years. This has to be at the top of their vision board this year.
According to right wing Lucas Raymond this is a “do or die” season. The sights are clear. This team needs to taste the playoffs — it has been too long.
Many fans are calling this season the “double digit disco,” since this is the centennial season for the Red Wings plus it would be the tenth year that the Red Wings have not made the playoffs.
The Red Wings once made the playoffs 25 years in a row — tied for the third longest streak in NHL history — and they are desperate to creep right back into their winning ways and into the Stanley Cup dance. This is the time.
After losing their season opener, the Red Wings are already on a hot start. Their record sits at 4-1 as of Oct. 19 — first in the Atlantic Division and fifth in the Eastern Conference.
The season started at home with a horrific 5-1 loss to the Montreal Canadians, but the Wings bounced back with two straight wins against the Toronto Maple Leafs — game one was a 6-3 Wings victory at home and game two was a 3-2 road win in Toronto.
The Red Wings faced the defending Stanley Cup
champions, the Florida Panthers, in their fourth game of the season. The Red Wings dominated 4-1 to win their third straight.
On Oct. 17, Detroit faced the Tampa Bay Lightning at home and beat them in 2-1 overtime off of a Dylan Larkin goal for their fourth straight victory.
Overall, the team has 16 goals through the season and 25 assists, averaging 3.2 goals a game.
On the goaltending side, the Red Wings have saved 121 shots of the 133 they have faced, with a save percentage of 91%.
Individually, Mason Appleton and captain Dylan Larkin have three goals each. Patrick Kane and Lucas Raymond follow close behind with two goals apiece. The Red Wings rookie, Axel Sandin Pellikka, scored his first career goal against the Tampa Bay Lightning. Alex DeBrincat leads the Red Wings with 6 assists.
In the net, John Gibson, who the Wings traded for, has struggled early, but Cam Talbot has stepped up and been the savior for the Red Wings. Talbot has had 82 saves with a save percentage of 93% in 202 minutes on the ice.
Red Wings fans have been given a lot to be excited about, and reason to be optimistic going forward. The Red Wings are tough, well-coached and meshing together as a team. They could be legitimate contenders for a Stanley Cup.
The last domino to fall in the Detroit sports revival, the Red Wings are ready to step back into the spotlight. For Lions, Tigers and Pistons fans looking to rally behind another quality team, the Red Wings are ready to make their bid and prove that there’s no weak link in Detroit anymore.
Sports movies that go beyond the game
JAMES ELLING Sports
Editor
There’s something magical about a great sports movie. It might bring a tear to your eye or a race to your heart. It could give you the motivation to run through a wall or the sweet taste of triumph right from the sofa. You might find yourself feeling satisfied, defeated, confused or anywhere else within the human spectrum of emotion. That’s just it though. Regardless of what you feel, you really feel.
That’s because the best sports movies aren’t really about sports. They’re about humanity. Sports are simply a vessel by which the richness of the human experience — emotion, failure, resilience, success and teamwork — is conveyed.
Whether an all-time classic or a modern box office hit, great sports movies take us on a roller coaster of cinematic experience.
So, which of these roller coaster experiences took me on the wildest rides and earned spots in my top five?
Few sports movies are as well made as “Ford v Ferrari” — it was made with the largest budget on this list, and it raked in the most cash in the box office.
The true story documents underdog racecar driver Ken Miles as he embraces an obsession with perfection and battles corporate politics in a quest to lead Ford’s racing
team to a victory over the world-class Ferrari team.
The film includes true underdog triumph, some of the most exhilarating racing scenes the big screen has to offer and strong performances by Christian Bale and Matt Damon, solidifying its place as one of the most captivating watches in sports movies.
4. “Coach Carter”
Another true story, “Coach Carter,” was fundamental in developing my understanding of character and discipline.
Samuel L. Jackson portrays coach Ken Carter and his tough love coaching philosophy that calls his players to a standard bigger than basketball.
While most sports movies put winning at center stage, “Coach Carter” focuses on basketball as a catalyst for real life gifts — maturation, identity and character development — in a way that will leave you feeling like you shared in not just a victory, but a transformation.
3. “The Sandlot”
A true classic, “The Sandlot” captures what a summer at the ball diamond with your friends might feel like in the eyes of a 12-year-old.
Perhaps one of the most quotable movies there is, “The Sandlot” is filled with unforgettable moments and characters from start to finish.
“The Sandlot” is simple, yet wonderful. It’s charming, whimsical and nostalgic. It might even make you feel young again. And of course, it’s impossible to leave off of this list.
2. “Moneyball”
For my fellow nerds, “Moneyball” scratches that analytical itch like no other. Baseball becomes less of a sport and more of a chess match — and it’s thrilling.
Based on the true story of Oakland Athletics general manager Billy Beane (Brad Pitt,) the film follows his radical strategy of using analytics to turn a smallmarket budget into a championship-caliber squad.
“Moneyball” is another underdog tale, but it flips the script in emphasizing numbers over narratives — yet it uses a masterfully dramatic narrative to do it.
1. “Remember the Titans”
Rounding out the quartet of true stories, “Remember the Titans” has it all. Everything a sports movie might seek to be — this is it.
The story is true, captivating and triumphant in more ways than one. Denzel Washington is remarkable. We see societal walls torn down and a football family built in their stead. We learn lessons on unity, trust and perseverance.
Like I said before, a great sports movie takes us on a journey of human experience. “Remember the Titans” is the trip of a lifetime.
Sports aren’t just about the score — they’re about the stories. These five movies capture that perfectly.
This list is an amusement park of emotion, character and triumph, taking us through the highs of victory and the lows of heartbreak, and revealing that the biggest moments aren’t found in the scoreboard or the highlight reels, but in the quiet struggles, bold choices and human connections that make the game worth playing.
PHOTO BY WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Angel Reese steps off the court and onto the runway
REPORTER NAME
Reporter
Title
On Wednesday, Oct. 15, the Victoria’s Secret fashion show came back for its second year after not having a show from 2019-2023 and making a comeback debut in 2024.
This year’s show featured former and current models, actresses and, for the first time ever, a professional athlete.
Angel Reese was given the honor of being asked to be the first pro athlete to be featured in the show. The 23-year-old WNBA player was seen in two pretty-in-pink outfits. The second look featured a stunning set of bombshell silver and white wings that did her name justice.
Reese’s confident presence on the runway quickly picked up attention online, with fans everywhere praising her adaptability and poise.
She was featured along with Bella and Gigi Hadid and Victoria’s Secret superstar Adriana Lima, in a star-studded lineup that also featured transgender, pregnant and plus-size models. The diverse cast reflects the brand’s revamped vision for its annual display after the viewership dropped significantly due to the lack of such diversity.
Many fans applauded Victoria’s Secret for stepping towards inclusivity, with Angel Reese’s participation marking a new chapter for representation in both fashion and sports.
In an interview with People magazine Reese stated, “I’m ready to swap my Angel Reese 1s for
heels on Wednesday night!”
She attended the 2024 show in the audience, and she also shared her reaction to finding out she would be featured in the 2025 show.
“It’s such a surreal and full circle moment — just last year I was in the audience manifesting being on that runway,” Reese said.
She hopes that she will inspire women and girls all around the world that they can dominate in their career and also chase their dreams. She compared her training for the show to her basketball practices and shared that “They aren’t that different” as she has been training for both for weeks.
Her second season with the Chicago Sky wrapped up on Sept. 13 after a 91-86 loss to the New York Liberty. The team went 10-34 in their 2025 season.
Angel Reese averaged 14.7 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game in her second season, which is an improvement compared to her rookie season where she averaged 13.6 points, 13.1 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. Her growth both on and off the court has placed her as one of the most influential athletes in women’s basketball today.
Reese has also been featured in the WNBA AllStar Game in both seasons, where she is no stranger to putting on a show. During her rookie year allstar game, she recorded 12 points and 11 rebounds along with a steal and a block all within just 18 minutes of action in a 117-109 victory, becoming the first ever rookie to record a double-double in WNBA All-Star game history.
Her second season as an all-star she tallied six point, nine rebounds, two assists and a steal in 17
minutes of playing time for Team Collier in a 151131 over Team Clark.
Reese will now step back into practice and get back on her grind as she prepares for her third season with the Chicago Sky and the team gets ready to host the 2026 WNBA All-Star Game.
After her showing for Victoria’s Secret, Reese has made impacts on the court and on the runway. Her moment on the runway wasn’t just an achievement for her, but for the industry, as it was a statement that challenged the traditional fashion show norms. Her confidence on the runway and athletic figure provided a refreshing contrast from the typical model image, expanding what beauty and femininity can look like on the runway.
As fashion continues to turn toward authenticity and representation, Reese’s presence set a new tone, one where high fashion and athleticism aren’t worlds apart, but a powerful combination. Between basketball and now her runway debut, Angel Reese continues to prove to the world that there’s no limit to what women in sports can achieve.
The Horizon summit: Buru Naivalurua and his biggest contenders for the league’s crown
MIKE OKORONKWO
Sports Reporter
Heading into the nerve-wracking yet exciting 2025–26 Horizon League basketball season, it’s only natural that the focus shifts to the title aspirations of the Golden Grizzlies.
After coming up just short of the championship game last season—falling in a tough overtime semifinal contest to eventual tournament winner Robert Morris— Oakland University is determined to reclaim the crown.
This campaign will be headlined by the season-long battle for the Horizon League Player of the Year honor, a race that, while currently led by preseason Player of the Year Tuburu Naivalurua, is poised to be fiercely contested by a handful of the league’s most potent talents.
While Naivalurua currently holds the league’s top individual honor, the Horizon League promises a deep and potentially volatile competition. The Oakland forward is the headline, but the eventual winner must outlast a rare blend of high-scoring veterans, top-tier transfers and emerging international talent.
It is from this elite core of five contenders — each representing a challenge to the preseason favorite — that the eventual 2026 Player of the Year will emerge.
Dayan Nessah, wing, Cleveland State
Nessah’s performances for Switzerland this summer at the FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup were nothing short of impressive.
The Swiss forward displayed an immense feel for the game, finishing sixth among all scorers at the tournament with averages of 17.7 points and 9.3 rebounds per game. He outpaced major international prospects, including FIBA All-Star Five recipient Hannes Steinbach (17.4 points) and Texas Tech sophomore Christian Anderson Jr. (17.3 points).
The six-foot-seven-inch transfer arrives at Cleveland State with a high pedigree, having spent five seasons in the FC Barcelona development system before playing his freshman year at George Washington. While he saw limited minutes in the Atlantic 10 last season, his explosive summer immediately places him on a Player of the Year trajectory.
Nessah’s case is built on a unique skill set: he possesses the vision and distribution of a combo guard (3.4 assists per game at the U19 World Cup) while using the physicality of a forward to command rebounds and drive the paint. His positional versatility and high basketball IQ make him a high-efficiency threat who can influence the game on every possession — a quality that historically translates to Player of the Year success in the Horizon League.
Cris Carroll, forward, Youngstown State
As a preseason All-League First Team selection, Carroll represents Youngstown State’s essential anchor in a season where the Penguins are projected third.
His Player of the Year candidacy is driven by his expected ascension to the team’s top scoring option following the departure of high-usage guard EJ Farmer.
The six-foot-six-inch, 230-pound forward is uniquely suited for a leap in production due to his efficient, bruising interior game. Film analysis confirms his strength: he backs down defenders effectively and finishes well with his back to the basket.
As a perimeter threat, he’s a reliable shooter who converts 35.8% of his catch-and-shoot 3-pointers with a smooth, steady release.
Defensively, Carroll is a solid contributor whose athleticism translates to key team plays. He has good timing and vertical leap on blocks, and his ability to disrupt passing lanes led to an average of 1.1 steals per
game last season.
If Carroll can translate his efficiency and defensive playmaking into a high-usage role, his emergence as the centerpiece of a top-tier Youngstown State contender will make him a direct challenge to Oakland’s Naivalurua.
Amar Augillard, guard, Milwaukee
Augillard’s case is built entirely on elite, proven scoring ability. The six-foot-five-inch, 225-pound guard is a preseason All-League First Team selection and the most decorated newcomer to the Horizon League, arriving as the 2024 NJCAA Division I Player of the Year.
Stylistically, Augillard brings a rare mix of size and shot creation. He’s a physical guard who uses his strength to dominate smaller backcourts and is an effective downhill driver, confirmed by his elite freethrow rate — 82.9% from the line at Fresno State.
More critically, Augillard finished his last Division I season with a usage rate of 37.0%, meaning Milwaukee’s offense should run through him. If he can translate that high-volume command into efficient production for the team projected first in the preseason poll, he’ll be a formidable challenger to Naivalurua.
DeAndre Craig, guard, Purdue Fort Wayne
Craig is the new engine for a Purdue Fort Wayne team that has consistently been a top-half contender, making him a compelling Player of the Year sleeper pick.
The Chicago native, a six-foot guard, transfers in from Denver, where he led the team with 13.5 points and 3.7 rebounds per game.
Craig’s case is rooted in his efficiency as a primary ball-handler. He’s a tenacious and savvy finisher who steps into a system that has recently produced elite guards.
More importantly, he’s an effective playmaker who logged 78 assists last season. If Craig can use his quickness and proven late-game reliability to lead the Mastodons to a top three finish, his emergence as a high-efficiency lead guard will place him firmly in the conversation.
Tuburu Naivalurua, forward, Oakland
As the preseason Player of the Year, Naivalurua enters the season with the largest target on his back. The six-foot-eight-inch, 240-pound forward is the centerpiece of Oakland’s offense.
His case is defined by efficiency, durability and poise. He’s the league’s top returning scorer (13.9 points per game) and an elite interior presence who shoots 55.5% from the field while grabbing 7.1 rebounds per game.
Naivalurua is a poised post player whose game features a variety of combo moves and the ability to finish with soft touch around the rim despite contact.
His Player of the Year mandate relies on consistent performance across a high 35.2 minutes per game average, capitalizing on the strength and composure honed through his international journey and experience against high-major competition.
The battle for Horizon League Player of the Year is not merely a contest for a trophy — it’s a showcase of individual brilliance and rising star power that will define the 2026 season.
Naivalurua stands as the ultimate test case: the established preseason favorite whose poise and efficient postgame are set to power Oakland’s title push.
To secure the crown, he must withstand a field of contenders whose individual breakthroughs could reshape the league’s landscape.
A breakout season from Cleveland State’s Dayan Nessah — whose elite international pedigree offers a genuine NBA ceiling — would elevate his program regardless of final standings.
Similarly, the high-volume scoring of Milwaukee’s Amar Augillard and the expanded role of Youngstown State’s Cris Carroll promise the kind of individual campaigns that can drag their teams into championship contention.
Ultimately, the winner of this race will be the player whose brilliance elevates his team the most. The pursuit of the Player of the Year honor won’t just define a single star — it will decide which individual leads his program and captivates fans across the Horizon League all season long.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CASSIE BUCHHOLZ AND OAKLAND UNIVERSITY MENS BASKETBALL
