Summer 2023 Orientation Issue

Tuesday, August 22, 2023 | Vol. CII, Issue 0 | Binghamton University | bupipedream.com

The Free Word on Campus Since 1946

ORIENTATION ISSUE 2023 Pipe Dreamʼs Stories of the Year A selection of the Pipe Dream News Desk’s biggest stories this past year, coverage spans student protests, political developments and a lawsuit against administration.

Brandon Ng news editor

From Residential Life eliminating the residential assistant (RA) position to the arrest of 15 people at a protest against police brutality, the News Desk has reported on major developments, both at Binghamton University and the surrounding community. With a clean slate and new opportunities on the horizon, we take a look back on Pipe Dream’s coverage over the past academic year.

JUST wins class action lawsuit against Broome County Sheriff While many students and administrators were eager to put COVID-19 in the rearview last fall, inmates at the Broome County Jail were still unable to see in-person visitors following a COVID-19-era policy. Inmates were also charged 25 cents for every minute over an allotted five-minute phone call — six times the state prison rate.

In response, Justice and Unity for the Southern Tier (JUST), an activist group working toward “dismantling mass incarceration and mass policing,” filed a class action lawsuit against thenSheriff David Harder.

Justice Oliver N. Blaise III of the Broome County Courthouse sided with JUST, issuing a decree that mandated the return of inperson visitation at the Broome County Jail.

See STORIES page 3

aLeXa vaLadeZ design Manager Looking back on the 2022-23 academic year, here is a compilation of Pipe Dream’s most important stories.

Five on-campus activities to explore From visiting an art exhibition to venturing into the greenhouse, BU offers a multitude of activities for students to enjoy.

Revati Gelda

assistant arts & cuLture editor

Binghamton wins America East Commissioner’s Cup

See cup page 10

courtesy oF tHe america east conFerence Binghamton was named the winner of the Stuart P. Haskell Commissioner’s Cup, which recognizes the strongest athletics program in the America East conference.

As an incoming freshman at Binghamton University, you’re bound to initially feel lost and overwhelmed.

It’s easy to get caught up in your academics and push the social aspects of University life to the back of your mind — however, some of the best memories you’ll make at BU are the ones that involve anything but academics. With that being said, here are some of BU’s top on-campus activities to explore.

Anderson Center for the Performing Arts The Anderson Center for the Performing Arts is a cultural hub for all things theatre, music and dance related. With three main performance spaces — the Osterhout Concert Theater, the Chamber Hall and Watters Theater — BU offers a variety of shows each semester. The performances, which do not disappoint, are put on by fellow BU students and visiting guests who showcase their immense effort, hard work and talent each semester.

Whether you are attending alone or with a friend, it is a worthwhile experience, so take that initiative and immerse yourself in another world for an hour or two.

See EXpLORE page 5

BINGHAMTON UNIVERSITY’S OFFICIAL FINANCIAL PARTNER We’re here for you all around campus, including our branch in The Union, the Financial Wellness Center at the Fleishman Center for Career and Professional Development, and the Visions Center for Student-Athlete Excellence. We’ve got you covered for your money matters during college and beyond. And remember, you can also get the exclusive Bearcat debit card at the Visions branch in The Union! Show your BU pride by stepping around town with this card.

The Union Branch Hours Mon – Fri: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Sat, Sun: CLOSED

From Campus to Careers Build Your Future with Visions Explore our job listings and #ClaimYourSeat at visionsfcu.org/careers

Campus ATM Locations Outside our branch in The Union Glenn G. Bartle Library Tower The Events Center Outside Dunkin’ Donuts

ARTS & CULTURE

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OPINIONS

SPORTS

What to eat at BU,

Things to do in the Binghamton area,

Editorial: Pipe Dream’s Words of Wisdom 2023,

Jacob Nolan selected as Pipe Dream’s Male Athlete of the Year,

Tsvetelina Ilieva chosen as Pipe Dream’s Female Athlete of the Year,

SEE PAGE 5

SEE PAGE 6

SEE PAGE 2

SEE PAGE 10

SEE PAGE 9

PAGE II Thursday, Monday, Monday, October October April 3,2,5, 2017 2017 2017 Tuesday, August 22, 2023

Address: University Union WB03 4400 Vestal Parkway E. Binghamton, N.Y. 13902 Phone: 607-777-2515 Web: bupipedream.com

Pipe Dream’s Words of Wisdom Pipe Dream welcomes incoming students with advice from our E-Board.

As per orientation issue tradition, Pipe Dream’s E-Board offers their advice to incoming students. Congratulations on starting this chapter of your lives, and enjoy the independence and new opportunities that come with it!

FALL 2023 Editor-in-Chief* Lia Richter editor@bupipedream.com

Lia Richter, Editor-in-Chief: “Go with the flow! Saying yes to a random event or trying something new can actually be the best way to make memories and meet lifelong friends.”

Managing Editor* Bella Daidone manager@bupipedream.com

News Editor* Brandon Ng news@bupipedream.com Asst. News Editors

Bella Daidone, Managing Editor: “Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Adjusting to a new environment can be difficult, but you’re not alone. Having a support system is important whether it’s your friends, family or professors.”

Ella Michelle Connors Tresa Karnati

Opinions Editor* Doris Turkel opinions@bupipedream.com Asst. Opinions Editor Desmond Keuper

Lukas Ladekarl, Business Manager: “Never attribute something to malice, if it can be attributed to incompetence.”

Arts & Culture Editor* Alexis Yang arts@bupipedream.com Asst. Arts & Culture Editors Hudson Burrows Revati Gelda

Sports Editor* Johnny Yang sports@bupipedream.com

Alexis Yang, Arts & Culture Editor: “Always be open to new experiences. In your free time, explore everything Binghamton has to offer — clubs with people who share your interests, late nights at Nite Owl and all the restaurants in Downtown Binghamton. It’s important to prioritize your studies, but remember to make time for friends and enjoy life at Binghamton University.”

Asst. Sports Editor Jacob Knipes Emily Ciarlo Photography Editor* Caspar Carson photo@bupipedream.com Asst. Photography Editor Kaitlyn (Kai) Depalma

Brandon Ng, News Editor: “Everyone wants to make friends, so put yourself out there and just talk to people! Prioritize establishing genuine relationships because having people you can talk to and trust will make your life so much better when hard times come — and they will.”

Fun Editor* Elaina Bonora fun@bupipedream.com

Design Manager* Alexa Valadez design@bupipedream.com

Johnny Yang, Sports Editor: “Discover something you are passionate about and pursue it. Find a balance when it comes to your social life and your academics. Most importantly, stay true to yourself!”

Design Assistant Madison Moore

Copy Desk Chief* Allison Peteka copy@bupipedream.com

Allison Peteka, Copy Desk Chief: “Being independent will be overwhelming at first, but try not to get caught up in the stress. Learning how to manage your time is key, and remember to have fun!”

Asst. Copy Desk Chief Emma Alicea

Technology Manager* Steven Yeung tech@bupipedream.com Asst. Technology Manager Leora Dallas

Alexa Valadez, Design Manager: “Remember that college is not just about academics and career preparation. It’s a transformative experience that should be enjoyed. Make time for friends, hobbies and activities that bring you joy. Cherish the memories you create and make the most of every moment!”

Business Manager* Lukas Ladekarl business@bupipedream.com Asst. Business Manager Daniel Cygan Adam Shemesh businessassistant@bupipedream.com

Pipe Dream is published by the Pipe Dream Executive Board, which has sole and final discretion over the newspaper’s content and personnel. Positions seated on the executive board are denoted by an asterisk.

Pipe Dream is published online Mondays and Thursdays while classes are in session during the fall and spring semesters, except during finals weeks and academic breaks.

The content on the Opinions page with bylines represent the views of those authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Pipe Dream Executive Board.

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All letters submitted for publication must include the author's name, year and major.

Please limit letters to the editor to 400 words and guest columns to 750 words. Pipe Dream reserves the right to edit submissions, and does not guarantee publication. All submissions become property of Pipe Dream. Guest column submissions may be emailed to the opinions editor at opinions@bupipedream.com, and all letters to the editor may be sent to editor@ bupipedream.com.

stabilizing:pinochole

schedule:destabilizing

Caspar Carson, Photo Editor: “Don’t be afraid of change. Everyone here is at a time in their lives meant for exploring and discovering the unknown. Keep your mind open and embrace those changes, even if sometimes they don’t work out.”

Elaina Bonora, Fun Page Editor: “It may take a bit of trial and error to find your people. Allow friends to exit your life when their friendship is no longer mutually beneficial — some people are in our lives for a short period of time to teach us a lesson and leave.”

Doris Turkel, Opinions Editor: “Actively pursue organizations and communities that you want to be a part of. This is your time to grow — there are tons of resources and opportunities at your fingertips.”

bupipedream.com | August 22, 2023

NEWS

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Pipe Dream’s Stories of the Year STORIES from page 1

Residential Life to replace RA position in 2023 In September, Casey Wall, BU’s director of residential life and housing, announced in an email to all student staff that the staffing model would be overhauled for the fall 2023 semester, eliminating the RA position. Taking its place would be several new roles, responsible for different aspects of the original job.

BU administration said the change came after exit interviews with former RAs indicated burnout, which caused them to not return to the position, and that the responsibilities had grown too large for one individual.

After the announcement, multiple RAs expressed concern about the lack of guidance and communication from Residential Life, including their concern about financial benefits — like free housing — that help many first-generation students afford college.

Former College Republicans president arrested for Capitol Riot involvement On Sept. 20, 2022, the United States Attorney for Washington D.C. charged Jon Lizak, a former president of BU’s College Republicans, for breaching the U.S. Capitol building during the Jan. 6 riots. Lizak was accused of

entering the office of then U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi with four other men. One of his associates was charged with a felony for assaulting a police officer.

A statement from the College Republicans denounced the Jan. 6 riots, adding that Lizak had disaffiliated from the organization in spring 2022.

Logan Blakeslee, interim club president at the time and a senior double-majoring in history and political science, wrote that he was “not surprised” by Lizak’s actions, attributing them to “an unfounded theory about voter fraud.”

Broome County sees red and blue flips from midterms The 2022 midterm elections resulted in Marcus Molinaro, a Republican, winning New York’s 19th congressional district — which holds BU and the rest of Broome County. The seat was previously held by Lieutenant Gov. Antonio Delgado and became an open seat after Pat Ryan (D), who won the special election, was relocated during the redistricting process.

Defeating Josh Riley by 6,244 votes in a district where Democrats held a 36 percent to 32 percent registration advantage over Republicans, Molinaro’s success mirrored statewide voting patterns

— where Republicans made substantial gains, primarily upstate and on Long Island.

Locally, Lea Webb, a former two-term Democratic Binghamton city councilor and BU’s diversity education coordinator, narrowly defeated former Binghamton Mayor Rich David in the New York State Senate election. The seat was left vacant after Fred Akshar (R) decided to run for Broome County Sheriff, an election he won by 26 percent.

‘I can’t breathe’: Activists criticize BPD after arrest video circulates During the early hours of New Year’s Day, while most students were home for winter break, Binghamton Police Department (BPD) Officer Brad Kaczynski knelt on the neck of Hamail Waddell, a Black-Asian man. Video of the incident quickly started circulating on Facebook, in which Waddell told witnesses to record that he couldn’t breathe.

Shortly after, a joint statement was released by nine activist groups, including JUST, Zero Hour Binghamton and the Binghamton Tenants Union, saying that Waddell sustained injuries to his “face, neck, head and back” and required stitches. They also argued that Kaczynski, assigned desk duty after the incident, violated the Eric

Garner Anti-Chokehold Act and the BPD’s Use of Force policy. As of May, charges against Waddell, including resisting arrest and disorderly conduct, remain pending, as does the internal investigation into Kaczynski.

Fifteen arrested in Johnson City protest against police brutality In response to the Waddell incident and the killing of Tyre Nichols by Memphis police officers, students, community members and activists organized a protest against police brutality.

Flyers, featuring the hashtags #JusticeForTyre and #JusticeForHamail, were handed out on BU’s Spine, instructing participants to wear black clothing and a face mask. The protest was held at the Wegmans in Johnson City.

Local police were called

by Wegmans staff, accusing protesters of blocking a store entrance and refusing to move onto a public sidewalk.

At the night’s end, 15 people were arrested, including former Binghamton Mayor Matthew Ryan — currently a Democratic candidate for Broome County District Attorney. Officers were also accused of pepper spraying indiscriminately, including members of the press covering the event.

Legal cannabis dispensary

opens in Binghamton In February, Just Breathe — the first upstate legal cannabis dispensary — opened for business in Downtown Binghamton.

The store, which sold cannabidiol (CBD) products before marijuana legalization in New York, collaborates with the Broome County Urban League — an organization that provides mutual aid and workforce programs to the community.

Damien Cornwell, one of the owners, described the growing legal marijuana industry as a “shot in the arm” to local economies.

The efforts of Binghamton Mayor Jared Kraham, who pushed local agencies and the City Council to update zoning laws, are credited with placing Binghamton at the forefront of legal marijuana in New York state.

Doctoral students to see raise in stipends After relentless advocacy from the Graduate Student Employees Union (GSEU), BU committed to raising minimum stipends for fulltime, 10-month doctoral students for the fall 2023 semester. Despite the increase — which mirrors the plans of other SUNY institutions, like the University at Buffalo and Stony Brook University — the GSEU’s “living wage” demand will not be met.

Because of a statewide SUNY budget deficit, the University financed the increases internally. Provost Donald Hall said that approximately 830 students will be impacted at a cost of $1.54 million per year.

‘They’ve swept it under the rug’ Karen Barzman, a former professor of art history at BU, filed a lawsuit against SUNY and several high-level BU administrators, alleging sex-based discrimination violations prohibited under Title IX and the New York State Human Rights Law. In March, a federal judge dismissed the defendants’ motion to dismiss.

The lawsuit centers on claims that University officials did not fulfill their legal obligations to protect Barzman from John Tagg, a SUNY distinguished professor of art history and an allegedly abusive former romantic partner. Pipe Dream spoke to Barzman, who recounted how her complaints of workplace retaliation went unanswered until she eventually signed a retirement agreement in 2021. Barzman, who was once fully tenured, is now an adjunct lecturer at DePaul University.

reaD THe fULL STorY aT BupIpEDREAM.cOM

Dates and events to know at BU Looking ahead to University Fest, Restaurant week and more, a preview of the most important dates and events of the semester.

ELLA MICHELLE CONNORS assistant news editor

New Student Move-in and Welcome Program (Aug. 18 to Aug. 19) Freshman move-in begins a few days prior to the start of classes. This gives incoming students a chance to settle into their new environment, get to know roommates and participate in social activities organized by community assistants (CAs). Take this opportunity to tour campus with friends and explore the dining halls, bowl in the Binghamton University Union Undergrounds and find a good study spot at the Glenn G. Bartle Library.

First Day of Classes (Aug. 22) Make sure to walk through your schedule before the first day of classes to avoid getting lost or being late. Introduce yourself to professors and socialize with classmates to start off the semester strong.

The first day of classes are not usually work heavy and instead focus on going over class requirements, sharing course goals and introducing teaching assistants (TAs).

Add/Drop Deadline (TBD) The add/drop deadline is the last day students are allowed to add new classes

to their schedule or drop classes that they no longer want to take, without filing petitions to advisers or having a withdrawal on their transcript. If after the first week of classes, you feel the need to drop a class because it doesn’t interest you or is too challenging, make sure to do it by this deadline to avoid having to withdraw later in the semester. Any class or schedule changes can be done online through BUBrain.

University Fest (Aug. 26) UFest is held at the beginning of every fall semester on the Peace Quad and the Spine and gives students the opportunity to explore athletic programs, student organizations, University services and local businesses. Occurring between 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with games, giveaways, free food and inflatables, more than 250 student organizations will be tabling to promote their club, explain their mission and tell you how to join.

Clubs can teach new skills and provide a sense of community for incoming students.

Fall Concert (TBD) Before every fall and spring semester, the Student Association Programming Board (SAPB) releases a music survey to students, which they use to book artists to perform at the University. Tickets are sold at a discounted price, and the concert is held on campus to make attendance more accessible.

In previous years, artists like WILLOW and Yung Gravy have performed.

Restaurant Week (Sept. 26 to Oct. 5) Each semester, restaurants in Downtown Binghamton offer threecourse lunch and dinner meals from a special menu.

The menu, deals and participating businesses can be found through the EatBing website. Restaurant week gives students and community members alike the opportunity to sample menus from local businesses like Garage Taco, Lost Dog Cafe and Craft Bar + Kitchen at a discounted price.

Homecoming (Oct. 13 to Oct. 15) Homecoming, organized by the Alumni Association, is a weekend-long experience in which alumni from previous years return to campus. The weekend includes events that allow current students to socialize and connect with alumni currently working in their chosen field. In previous years, activities included tailgates, TIER Talks and block parties.

Finals Week (Dec. 11 to Dec. 15) Before finals week begins, assess what you need to know, gather study materials and clarify any lingering questions about class content.

Take advantage of review sessions and office hours to get a sense of what the final will look like and what you are expected to know. There will be de-stress events held throughout campus for study breaks and Glenn G. Bartle Library will be open 24 hours a day.

Caspar Carson Photo Editor The Binghamton University tradition, University Fest, will extend from the Spine to the Peace Quad on Aug. 26, featuring over 250 student organizations, games, giveaways and free food.

bupipedream.com | August 22, 2023

NEWS

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Resources to know at BU An overview of resources available to every student needing academic, career or mental health support.

VERA THEN news contributor

Academic Resources — Transitioning to a college-level course load can be challenging for many. Outside of ChatGPT and professors’ office hours, Binghamton University students can access a wide variety of resources to help them achieve their academic goals.

Speaking Center Located on the upper level of the Chenango Champlain Collegiate Center (C4), the Speaking Center assists students in enhancing their oratory skills and offers peerto-peer consulting services to those seeking guidance and feedback on oral presentations.

The Speaking Center addresses all aspects related to public speaking, including planning and organizing presentations, addressing concerns or anxieties and refining delivery techniques.

Writing Center BU’s Writing Center is located around the corner from the Harpur College Dean’s Office at Library North 2411.

Student tutors assist students

working on various written assignments across disciplines — like lab reports, research papers and editorials. While they don’t proofread or copy edit, the Writing Center can help to provide an insight into college-level writing. In-person appointments can be scheduled starting the second week of classes and is open Monday to Thursday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and Friday between 10 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.

University Tutorial Services (UTS) A free tutoring service for BU students, UTS’s mission is to actively encourage the development of critical thinking, problem-solving and study skills among students outside of scheduled sessions.

Each tutoring appointment lasts one hour, and UTS encourages students to utilize their services throughout the semester, not just immediately before an exam.

Career Resources — If the thought of job interviews and a career gives you goosebumps, BU’s career resources can help you plans and prepare for the future.

The Fleishman Center for Career and Professional Development Located on the first floor of the University Union and recognized for being an “exemplary career center,” the Fleishman Center for Career

and Professional Development is the hub for career resources at BU. Staff members provide resumé and cover letter consultations, connect students to consultants and professional staff and organize internship fairs on campus.

Success Coaching Students can benefit from the guidance of peer and professional success coaches who offer personalized oneon-one coaching sessions, weekly accountability groups, workshops and virtual resources. Success coaches, offered through the Office for Student Transition and Success, help to recognize potential obstacles to academic achievement and work collaboratively with students to identify and utilize their strengths.

Handshake A service that provides students with job and internship opportunities, Handshake also assists students looking for oncampus positions and federal work-study positions. Taking advantage of the platform can help students start applying for professional development opportunities when ready.

Mental and Physical Health Resources — Being away from home can be both mentally and physically taxing. BU has numerous resources available to aid students facing hard times.

Decker Student Health Services Center The clinic, located behind Johnson Hall in the Dickinson Community, provides primary care for acute illnesses and injuries, health education, women’s health services — including birth control, travel medicine, immunizations, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing, psychiatric consultation and laboratory services to students. Every student is eligible to visit the clinic, and all services are confidential.

University Counseling Center (UCC) The UCC is located in Old O’Connor 264 and provides comprehensive clinical and referral services to students.

With scheduled and emergency appointments available, their goal is to improve students’ psychological well-being so they can fully leverage the educational opportunities available at the University.

Consultation, Advocacy, Referral and Education (CARE) Team The CARE Team assists students in navigating complex situations, offering support during challenges or crises.

Helping with short-term planning, they advocate for student success by providing referrals to relevant resources and aiding in the withdrawal process, if necessary.

Support Empathy Empowerment Kindness (SEEK) BU’s non-emergency helpline is open for calls between 8-11 p.m. It is entirely studentoperated and can be reached at 607-777-HELP (4357).

Additional Student Resources — Outside of academics, career development and mental health, BU offers ways for students to become an active member of their new community, as well as services that allow students to get around campus, reach their fitness goals and stay in touch with their faith.

academic year for access to the weight rooms.

Off Campus College Transport (OCCT) OCCT is a studentoperated bus service that offers transportation between the University and the local community — with routes going to Target and Walmart, Downtown, Johnson City and more. Students enjoy this service for free by scanning their University ID cards.

OCCT also operates a campus shuttle service and Late Nite, which services students going Downtown on Friday and Saturday nights.

Binghamton University Interfaith Council (BUIC) Comprised of a diverse set of religious institutions and organizations in the greater Binghamton area, the BUIC is dedicated to addressing the religious and spiritual needs of the University community.

BUIC members are available on campus and welcome interactions with students, faculty and staff.

Information Technology Services (ITS) Offering support to students experiencing technical difficulties, ITS also operates a wide variety of services with the goal of advancing academic success and wider administrative goals. Students can utilize free 3D printing services and get help with devices from professionals in the field.

East Gym Every student at BU is required to pay a recreation fee, which grants them the use of the East Gym and Recreation Center for specific activities, including swimming, basketball, volleyball, tennis and disc golf. Avid gym-goers and fitness enthusiasts must pay $100 per semester or $180 per

Clubs and organizations Students can explore the diverse range of student-run organizations available at BU on the B-Engaged website. The University offers over 450 clubs and organizations that can help students become more involved with the campus community, learn new skills and meet lifelong friends.

Places to know at BU From dining halls to the University Police Department, knowing where to go before the first day of classes will give you a head start.

ELLA MICHELLE CONNORS assistant news editor

Libraries Binghamton University has three main libraries for students to utilize. Glenn G. Bartle Library is located on campus and includes various research services for students, as well as reservable study spaces and printers. It houses the Innovation Lab, a high-tech study lounge with breakout rooms, a scholars lab, 3D printers and multi-touch display screens. Bartle Library is also home to the Library Tower Cafe, where many students enjoy purchasing coffee or pastries. The Science Library offers similar resources and is located near the science buildings. The University Downtown Center Library (UDC) is off campus, but is likewise available for student use, especially for commuter students or those who reside closer to Downtown Binghamton.

Fleishman Center for Career and Professional Development Located in the University Union, the Fleishman Center assists students in their preparation for professional jobs or internships. They offer resume workshops, mock interviews and job fairs for students to gain exposure in their respective fields. Students can also find opportunities to connect with BU alumni who have started careers in different industries of interest. They are open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays and can be reached at careers@binghamton.edu or by calling 607-777-2400.

Decker

Student

Health

Services Center The Decker Student Health Services Center (DSHSC) is located on campus and available to all students by appointment or walk-in. They offer various health-related resources — psychiatric screenings, HIV testing, medical prescriptions, free flu vaccine clinics and telehealth services. The DSHSC can also refer students to one of the three nearby hospitals for further evaluation if necessary — Lourdes Hospital, UHS Wilson Medical Center and UHS Binghamton General Hospital. The DSHSC can be reached at 607-7772221 during regular business hours — weekdays during the semester between 8 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. Additionally, Harpur’s Ferry, a studentrun ambulance service on campus, can assist students in case of a medical emergency.

University Counseling Center (UCC) The UCC offers free counseling services for BU students. These services include individual counseling, group counseling, consultation for parents and guardians and referrals to other treatment providers. There are also tele-mental health services provided through Zoom. The counseling center is open weekdays between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. and can be reached by calling 607-777-2772.

University Police Department (UPD) According to their website, UPD follows a community policing model — a “collaborative relationship between [their] department and the community [they] serve.” With a stated objective to create a safe environment for BU students and aid in emergency situations, UPD also collects missing items and operates a lost-and-found.

For emergency purposes, they can be contacted at 607-7772222 and for non-emergency

reasons at 607-777-2393. UPD is located in the basement of the Couper Administration Building — AD-G24.

East Gym The East Gym is the primary physical fitness facility on campus located just behind Newing College.

Though it costs $100 per semester or $180 per academic year to use the cardio and weight lifting machines or attend various fitness classes, like yoga or spin, the main pool area and basketball courts are free for all students to utilize in their spare time during open hours. The front desk can be reached at 607-777-7529.

Events Center The Events Center is where students come together for larger gatherings, ranging from Division I basketball games to concerts. This past year, popular artist Yung Gravy visited BU to perform, with WILLOW performing the year before. Parents and alumni also gather for special occasions, including Homecoming Weekend and Parents’ Weekend.

The LGBTQ Center and the Multicultural Resource Center (MRC) Offering educational opportunities, as well as social justice initiatives to create an inclusive environment — the Q Center, open between noon and 7 p.m. on weekdays — provides resources for students who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community.

They also lead workshops through their LGBTQ+ Active Ally Program, which aim to “identify, educate and support allies, who will work to enhance our campus culture.” The MRC aims to increase awareness of cultural diversity throughout the University, also facilitating the MRC Microgrant, intended to promote “collaborative efforts” in programming between diverse cultural

Caspar Carson photo editor The East Gym, located behind Newing College, is the primary physical fitness facility on campus for students to exercise and be active.

organizations. It is open on weekdays between 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Both the Q Center and the MRC are located in the basement of Glenn G. Bartle Library.

include the new LGBTQ+ learning community, housed in Newing College, and the Public Service Learning Community, housed in Hinman College.

Residential Communities First-year students must choose between the five main residential living communities — Hinman College, Mountainview College, College in the Woods (CIW), the Dickinson Community and Newing College — each with different room styles and traditions.

Suite-style living, where students live in groups of four or six in double rooms, with a shared common space and bathroom, can be found in Mountainview, CIW and Hinman dormitories.

Dickinson residents live in flat-style rooms, with double rooms, two bathrooms and a shared “entry vestibule,” and Newing and CIW offer traditional corridor-style living with double rooms and shared bathrooms for every three doubles.

BU also offers learning communities, each with its own theme, which are designed to foster “learning and interaction” within a smaller group. Examples

Dining Halls A dining hall serves every community, all with a unique feature — a vegan station and the home for BU’s Food Pantry in CIW Dining Hall, a Starbucks location in Hinman Dining Hall, a panini bar at Appalachian Dining Hall and the “Kosher Corner,” at the Chenango Champlain Collegiate Center

(C4) — which serves Newing College and the Dickinson Community. For late night studiers, Nite Owl options are available at C4 and Appalachian Dining Hall until 1 a.m. most nights.

Marketplace The Marketplace, located in the heart of the University Union, offers retail dining options that students can use their meal plans to pay for. These include Tully’s University, CopperTop Pizzeria, Royal Indian, Breakfast and Beyond, Subway and more.

Five on-campus activities to explore From visiting an art exhibition to venturing into the greenhouse, BU offers a multitude of activities for students to enjoy.

Revati Gelda

assitant arts & cuLture editor

As an incoming freshman at Binghamton University, you’re bound to initially feel lost and overwhelmed.

It’s easy to get caught up in your academics and push the social aspects of University life to the back of your mind — however, some of the best memories you’ll make at BU are the ones that involve anything but academics.

With that being said, here are some of BU’s top on-campus activities to explore.

Anderson Center for the Performing Arts The Anderson Center for the Performing Arts is a cultural hub for all things theatre, music and dance related. With three main performance spaces — the Osterhout Concert Theater, the Chamber Hall and Watters Theater — BU offers a variety of shows each semester. The performances, which do not disappoint, are put on by fellow BU students and visiting guests who showcase their immense effort, hard work and talent each semester. Whether you are attending alone or with a friend, it is a worthwhile experience, so take that initiative and immerse yourself in another world for an hour or two. Past shows

include musicals such as “Rent” and “Into the Woods.”

The E.W. Heier Teaching Greenhouse Located near the Science Library, the E.W. Heier Teaching Greenhouse is home to over 4,000 exotic plants that make up over 1,000 different species. The greenhouse has four biomes — warm temperate, desert, tropical and cool temperate. The diverse environments help to showcase the difference among plant species and their geographic origins.

Students are welcomed and encouraged to stop by and enjoy the greenery. Plus, there are opportunities to volunteer.

Bowling Alley Located in the University Union Undergrounds, the

bowling alley is a great spot to have a relaxing Friday night in. It is a place where you can come with old and new friends alike and simply have a fun time playing a few rounds together. Most importantly, it is free for all undergraduate students.

Late Nite You cannot talk about on-campus activities without mentioning Late Nite. Each Friday and Saturday in the University Union, Late Nite hosts an array of activities, games, movies and more that are centered around a specific theme. Past themes have included carnival night, winter wonderland and space night. They also offer giveaways that are free to enter. Past prizes have included AirPods, a polaroid,

a JBL speaker and more. If you are looking for something to do on a Saturday night without having to leave campus, come and stop by the Union and see what Late Nite has to offer.

Binghamton University Art Museum BU’s art museum can be considered as one of the hidden gems on campus.

Located in the Fine Arts Building, the museum showcases a multitude of diverse art installations each semester. Past exhibitions include “The World After Us: Imaging techno-aesthetic futures,” which focuses on the blend between nature and technology by combining old electronic waste and different plants to create aesthetically pleasing yet uncanny

sculptures, as well as “Michal Heiman: Chronically Linked,” which aims to illustrate the tether between asylums and mental health. The museum also hosts different events alongside the art exhibitions, so be sure to keep an eye out for them during the semester.

Admission is free.

These are just a few of the various on-campus activities BU has to offer. In addition, there are over 450 student organizations and clubs to participate in, along with attending the various events they host throughout the academic year. With this in mind, you are sure to find something on campus that will create a spark of interest.

What to eat at BU Graduating students were celebrated for their acomplishments.

Sydney Lee

arts & cuLture contributor

You’ve just arrived at Binghamton University, and you’re looking for something to eat. BU offers a wide selection of meals at its four dining halls, but food on campus encompasses far more than the dining hall offerings.

Here you can find Pipe Dream’s list of what to eat on campus, whether you’re looking for a late night snack or a nutritious lunch before your big exam.

1. Original Chicken Tenders from Tully’s University Tully’s University calls itself “The Home of The Best Chicken Tenders on Earth,” and the food lives up to the label. Located in the Marketplace in the University Union, Tully’s offers three flavors of chicken tenders — original, buffalo and Asian — with options for various sauces.

Paired with lemonade, it’s the perfect meal for a lunch with friends.

2. Garden Avocado bagel sandwich from Einstein Bros. Bagels

The Garden Avocado sandwich is a fresh and healthy option at Einstein Bros. Bagels — a popular spot for bagels and coffee located near the BU School of Management.

The sandwich contains fresh avocado, eggs, spinach, tomato and a delicious roasted tomato spread, with your choice of bagel. Grab a coffee on the side and enjoy a breakfast before class.

3. Milkshakes from the Chenango Champlain Collegiate Center (C4) You can’t complete a culinary tour of BU without the milkshakes from Late Nite at the C4. For a little under $3, you can get a milkshake in various flavors such as chocolate, strawberry and vanilla.

4. Kombucha from the Food Co-Op If dairy isn’t your thing or you just want to enjoy a fresh beverage, grab some kombucha at the BU Food Co-Op. The BU Food CoOp was founded in 1975 and is entirely student-run, serving up lunch with an ever-changing menu every weekday at 12:30 pm. The kombucha is made in-house and comes in a variety of flavors such as sour cherry and pomegranate cardamom. Stop by the

University Union basement to experience the homey vibes, creative decor and high-quality food.

5. General Tso’s Chicken from Mein Bowl Come to Mein Bowl in the Marketplace and you’ll be greeted with a smile. The attitude of the employees is just as great as the food, which includes the popular choice of General Tso’s Chicken. The chicken comes on top of your choice

of rice or noodles, with toppings such as carrots and spicy mayo. Grab a meal and say hi to the manager of Mein Bowl, known around campus as “Mein Bowl Mary,” for her friendly and welcoming attitude.

6. Pumpkin Spice Latte from Starbucks Autumn is always a great time to be in Binghamton.

It’s when the campus is debatably at its most beautiful, hence the term

“pumpkin spice Bing” — which calls for a pumpkin spice latte from Starbucks in Hinman Dining Center.

The seasonal drink will warm you up as you walk to class and admire the scenery.

7.

Signature Stuffed Pita from Garbanzo Mediterranean Grill For a wholesome meal, consider a Signature Stuffed Pita from Garbanzo Mediterranean Grill.

Located on the third floor

Binghamton University’s must-have foods for nutritious meals or late night snacks.

of Hinman Dining Center, Garbanzo Mediterranean Grill has a build-your-own model for sandwiches and bowls. Offerings include pitas baked fresh every day, along with fillings such as meats, cucumber salad, tabbouleh and tzatziki sauce.

BU has no lack of oncampus cafes, restaurants and dining halls — bring some friends and explore them together.

Sourced From CNY Business JournaL

bupipedream.com | August 22, 2023

ARTS & CULTURE

6

Navigating Binghamton’s weather 101 A comprehensive list of seasonal Binghamton activities to look forward to.

Hudson Burrows

assistant art & cuLture editor

The Southern Tier — where the weather perfectly embodies your token moody, hormonal teenager. Sunny and 80 degrees one day, hail and snow the next, all within one week of March.

While this rollercoaster of a climate may be hard to keep up with, it’s part of what makes Binghamton so special and endearingly unpredictable. As an incoming freshman, you can never be too prepared to navigate Binghamton’s charm, so here are some activities and places to consider when wringing the most out of each season.

Fall Apple Hills farm Fall isn’t fall without apples, and located just 20 minutes from campus is Apple Hills, a farm that has the most quintessential fall necessities — orchards, animals, a cafe and, of course, 13 varieties of apples. While the farm is open year-round, some of their fall specialties include home-grown pumpkins, a corn maze, apple cider donuts and a spooky haunted barn.

The Nature Preserve Hidden gem views paint the landscape of Binghamton’s very own nature preserve, and the fall foliage makes for a perfect post-class afternoon hike — or, of course, for those in a time crunch, a leisurely stroll. The

nature preserve is home to many backyard friends, such as deer, beavers and turtles, making the trails both a recreational activity and a learning experience all wrapped in one.

Homecoming Want a chance to meet new Binghamton faces, both of current students and alumni?

Homecoming weekend is the time to do just that and usually occurs the first or second weekend of October. Division I sports teams, including soccer and volleyball, have games throughout the weekend, and exhibitions and performances are offered throughout campus all homecoming long. The get-togethers and reunions make for a fun and wholesome Binghamton fall experience.

Winter Skiing at Greek Peak Mountain Resort What better way to take on the winter snow than to ski through it? Greek Peak Mountain Resort, Central New York state’s largest ski resort, is less than an hour drive from campus, making for an accessible day trip with friends.

Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned skier, the mountain offers trails ranging from green (beginner) to double black diamond (thrill-seeker), so the winter fun reaches any and every level of interest.

Binghamton Black Bears Located in the hub of Downtown Binghamton is the Visions Veterans Memorial Arena, home to a relatively new member of the Federal

Kai DePaLma Assistant Photo Editor Popcorn, cotton candy and funnel cake are popular carnival foods at Binghamton University’s annual Spring Fling.

Prospects Hockey League (FPHL), the Binghamton Black Bears. The Binghamton community is known for swarming the arena during the winter season in support of their home team. With the team entering their third FPHL season, now’s the time to join in on some hometown pride with both students and city locals alike.

Strange Brew Cafe Cozying up with a cup of hot cocoa with a view of snowfall is an essential winter activity, and something Strange Brew Cafe does best. The local cafe is a renowned Binghamton hot spot, with winter specials like the “Mistletoe Matcha”

(chai, matcha and cinnamon) and the “Snickerdoodle Latte” (cinnamon, white mocha and whipped cream). It’s a perfect place to crack down during finals or get lost in a book, all the while romanticizing the long, Binghamton winter.

Spring Spring Fling One of BU’s most prized events is the annual Spring Fling, an outdoor festival on campus consisting of rides, games, student performances, food trucks and more. The event is famed for hosting popular artists, like Gunna in spring of 2022 and Surfaces from this past spring. Held in late April or early May, the long-awaited

Spring Fling is a great diversion from finals and the ultimate way to kick off summer.

Rumble Ponies Spring means fun music, time outdoors and a big, fat glizzy, and what other place to get all three than a baseball game?

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies are a minor league baseball team affiliated with the New York Mets, attracting many passionate New York state-based students (aka, most of us). The Ponies’ home field is Mirabito Stadium, located on Henry Street in Downtown Binghamton and conveniently just a short drive from campus. With frequent student discounts, the local

baseball team is a great way to ball on a budget.

Sugar Lips Ice Cream Last, but certainly not least, a Binghamton spring is nothing without visiting the beloved, iconic, traditional ice cream shop that is Sugar Lips.

The line that wraps around the parking lot doesn’t do justice for the myriad of flavors that are offered. From soft serve to sundaes and even pup cups for your furry friends, Sugar Lips is a spring favorite and a celebrated Binghamton classic.

Things to do in the Binghamton area Things to do and places to explore beyond Binghamton’s central campus.

ALEXIS YANG

arts & cuLture editor

If you’re a new Bearcat searching for fun things to do outside of class, consider exploring off campus. From experiencing the restaurant scene in Downtown Binghamton to seeing wildlife at the Ross Park Zoo, here are a list of off-campus activities to explore any semester at Binghamton University.

1. Experience science and art at the Roberson Museum and Science Center At 30 Front St. in Downtown Binghamton, the Roberson Museum and Science Center combines science, art and history. The museum features a planetarium and various exhibitions such as “Earth From Space” and “Haudenosaunee: People of the Longhouse,” which highlights the Indigenous group of the Southern Tier. Visitors can also explore the mansion of Alonzo Roberson Jr., a local businessman born in 1861.

With student tickets priced at $6, the Roberson Museum and Science Center is a must-see for new students looking for a complete museum experience.

2. See a movie at AMC Vestal Town Square 9 Laptop movie nights in your dorm are fun, but sometimes the release of the latest Marvel movie requires the big screen.

Located in Town Square Mall right off Vestal Parkway East, AMC Vestal Town Square 9 is a quick drive or bus ride from campus. Bring some friends and enjoy the show over a bucket of popcorn.

3. Compete in Trivia Night at Craft Bar + Kitchen If you enjoy burgers and trivia, stop by Craft Bar + Kitchen on Thursday nights at 7:30 p.m. Craft Bar + Kitchen holds a restaurant-wide trivia night for those who wish to participate, all while serving up sliders, fries and shakes.

4. Get up close and personal with wildlife at the Ross Park Zoo Located at 60 Morgan Road in Binghamton, the Ross Park Zoo offers an engaging experience for students and local families alike. The Ross Park Zoo is home to wildlife such as red pandas, African

The Roberson Museum and Science Center is a core aspect of Binghamton University’s Downtown scene.

penguins, sand cats and California king snakes — which you can see at a studentdiscounted rate of $8, priced at $7 in the winter months.

5. Paint some pottery at Uncorked Creations Tucked right above 205 Dry, the speakeasy-themed restaurant on State Street, Uncorked Creations is a hidden Downtown gem. In addition to organized classes, the paintand-sip pottery studio holds open studio hours, in which

visitors paint a premade pottery piece. Pottery pieces are priced individually, and glazing and firing requires a $10 fee. The cozy yet modern atmosphere makes Uncorked Creations the perfect stop for a rainy Sunday afternoon, or for any time the creative mood strikes.

6. Support local businesses at the Broome County Regional Farmers Market Every Saturday, local vendors convene on 840 Upper Front St. in Binghamton to

sell their local products and produce. Students who wish to support local businesses and purchase some fresh goods can stop by the market every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., all months of the year.

7. Have a picnic in Recreation Park When the weather is nice, Recreation Park is the perfect spot for a picnic. The open grass, playground and gazebo on Binghamton’s West Side provide a beautiful

From Pipedream ArcHives

backdrop for an afternoon off of schoolwork. Recreation Park is among other parks near the University, including Otsiningo Park and Confluence Park.

The Binghamton area has a great deal of educational, cultural and recreational activities, many of which are accessible by Off Campus College Transport (OCCT) bus routes. Outside of your classes, consider exploring Broome County to see what the area has to offer.

OPINIONS Tuesday, August 22, 2023 Thursday, Monday, Monday, October October April 3, 2,5, 2017 2017 2017

Form relationships with professors Actively seeking out mentorship can help you succeed academically.

Desmond Keuper Asst. Opinions Editor

Receiving your first round of syllabi is intimidating.

Acquiring your textbooks and skimming through the long sections to which you will devote caffeinefueled evenings and nights can feel similarly scary, as does the conversations that will fill the first few days of class — the breakdown of the various quizzes, tests, long and short essays and participation requirements that will make up the first semester of your time at college.

Before you have completely settled in, the

peers you have surrounded yourself with will start talking about what they hope to do over the summer. You’ll receive an email about selecting classes for next semester and find a long and confusing series of lists of courses and prerequisites and websites that seem impossible to navigate.

You will begin to feel overwhelmed all over again.

While this sort of stress is, to some degree, inevitable, there are ways of mitigating it. The way that I have found this most helpful is by cultivating strong relationships with my professors.

To address the problem of succeeding academically, I will return to the participation requirement

that makes up a chunk of many grade breakdowns.

This simply means raising your hand (or clicking whichever icon on Zoom) to speak in class. You can ask a dumb question or reply incorrectly to a question that the professor has posed to the class. You might embarrass yourself, as I have done frequently.

However, you will be satisfying one grading requirement and conveying to your professor that you are interested in succeeding in their class. They will remember who you are.

Attending office hours has a similar effect. Apart from the fact that most professors are willing to help you in whatever way you need (so long as you don’t ask them anything that’s already on

the syllabus), it also makes an impression on them, paving the way for a positive relationship.

Toward the end of solving problems outside of your performance in their class, once you establish a repertoire, your professors are usually very willing to give you advice. I have had professors help me navigate my major requirements and select classes. Professors have given me research work to do over the summer, and with the help of several professors, I am now participating in my major’s honors thesis program.

These sort of relationships are often more helpful than the advice you might get from career advisors, who may not know the particulars of

what it is you’re interested in doing or academic advisors, who may not completely understand the needs of your department.

My department’s course offerings underwent a shift, and it was with the help of one of my professors that I navigated my selection for next semester. This was a professor for whom I’d done research work one summer and who helped me refine my honors thesis topic.

I do not think that I would have come as far as I have without the caliber of mentorship I’ve received from my department. However, I will also say that I might not have received such a high quality of mentorship had I not pursued it. To any new students, I would

recommend working to cultivate similar relationships. They will both further your chances at success in what can often be a difficult and overwhelming environment, increase your opportunities in whatever field of study you are interested in and lead to what are honestly very interesting and fulfilling conversations. I have been allowed to enjoy both the advice and assistance given by my professors — and the relationships themselves — and the academic discourse that they pave the way for.

Desmond Keuper a senior majoring philosophy.

is in

Students should be constructive community members Understanding positionality and creating frameworks for mutual aid is crucial to community organizing.

Doris Turkel Opinions Editor

College can feel like an insular world, detached from the surrounding community.

In Broome County, there exists a stark divide between students and locals, which manifests in speech by the common use of “townies” or derogatory comments made by students toward local residents. The elitism and arrogance often shown toward local residents are compounded by the fact that Binghamton University is responsible for a lot of issues in the community. One of the most harmful ways in which the University has influenced the community is by fueling Broome County’s housing crisis, which has worsened due to student demand for off-campus housing. This has led to the development of off-campus student housing complexes, rising rent and

inadequate housing for families. The University has exacerbated this issue by acquiring over 30 plots of county land since 2015 to expand the school.

As a college student, it can be difficult to navigate our identity in a community many of us only call home for a few years. As a temporary resident, the health of the surrounding area and our impact on it may feel less consequential than that of our home areas.

However, it is precisely the temporary nature of many of our stays that should in part motivate us to be respectful, positive community members, acknowledging that our actions and attitudes can have far more lasting effects on the community’s ecosystem.

So, how can students be more mindful community members? First, understanding positionality — how you contribute to, benefit from and can mitigate harm to the local community — is extremely important.

If you are interested in getting involved with local organizations or activist efforts, this understanding should motivate meaningful activism rather than selfserving or misdirected activism. This means playing a supportive role in community organizing that is driven by local activists and directly impacts community members or by consulting with community members when spearheading a project that impacts them. Many student organizations and programs that encourage students to log a certain number of “community service” hours without first establishing frameworks for reciprocal community engagement fuel the misconception of one-sided giving, reinforcing preexisting power imbalances rather than encouraging mutual aid. I’ve found that investing time into a select few organizations or issues and forming relationships within those communities is

much more productive than spreading your effort thin.

BU and Broome County have an awesome network of organizations addressing local issues like mass incarceration, housing injustice and food insecurity, among others. Being a part of local organizations like Justice and Unity for the Southern Tier, as well as student organizations like the Binghamton Policy Project, has allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of how many of the same issues plaguing my community in New York City manifest here.

Working with local organizations has allowed me to figure out how to engage in community organizing by listening to the needs of those directly impacted by the issues being addressed and using my privilege as a student to mobilize other students, share access to resources and interact with University personnel and local government. It has also forced me to confront the fact that,

just by virtue of my status as a University student, I am often a part of the problem.

Being a part of progressive student organizations introduces similar challenges to developing frameworks for using student power to support the goals of community members. In my experience, this has involved consulting community members before and during engagement in action and partnering with preexisting campaigns.

My community organizing experience at BU has solidified principles that I will carry with me throughout my interactions with people and prospective legal career. The most important thing is to prioritize the experiences and ideas of those directly impacted by the issues being addressed. I am grateful to have been able to listen to the experiences and knowledge of community organizations and activists. My conversations with incarcerated activists in the Broome County Jail have

been the most meaningful learning experience of my life, teaching me a tremendous amount about the destructive nature of our criminal legal system.

Once you begin your college career at BU, you become a resident of Broome County as well. At the very least, you should be a respectful community member in your interactions with local residents, businesses and the surrounding area. If you would like to get involved in activism, consider how you can do so in a way that is beneficial and responds to the needs of the local community. I am still figuring out how to navigate my identity as a student and a community member, but it’s been an incredible learning experience.

Doris Turkel is a senior majoring in philosophy, politics and law.

9

SPORTS

bupipedream.com | August 22, 2023

Tsvetelina Ilieva chosen as Pipe Dream’s Female Athlete of the Year Junior outside hitter coming off of AE player of the year season.

Johnny Yang sports editor

During the 2022 season, the Binghamton volleyball team hosted the America East (AE) tournament for the first time in program history, entering the postseason as the No.1 seed while also earning a bid to the National Invitational Volleyball Championship (NVIT).

After transferring from Seton Hall, junior outside hitter Tsevetelina Ilieva became the second Bearcat in 21 years to be named AE player of the year, and was the first player in program history to be

named an American Volleyball Coach’s Association (AVCA) All-American — all in her first season with the Bearcats.

Having led BU to one of its most successful seasons in two decades and racking up numerous awards, Ilieva has been named Pipe Dream’s 202223 Female Athlete of the Year.

“I’m surprised, I didn’t expect it at all,” Ilieva said.

“But I guess I’m very honored to be called [female] athlete of the year for Pipe Dream … I honestly can’t believe it.”

Binghamton finished the season with a 17-9 record while going 8-2 in conference play.

This is the highest win total that the Bearcats have had in over 17 seasons, clocking a win percentage of .708, the best in the program’s history.

“I was just determined to make an impact in the program in general, and just do good in the conference overall,” Ilieva said. “I always try to just be focused in the moment and just do as much as I can to make things happen.”

Tsevetelina ranked top ten in the AE conference in kills with 351, points with 410 and hitting percentage at .240. In addition, she also recorded six doubledoubles and had 15 or more kills nine times throughout the course of the season.

“Our goal for going into next season is first to bring home a championship,” Ilieva said.

“My personal goal is to just get hopefully in — if not on — the honorable mention, the third team All-American, because we want to go up from here.”

Junior outside hitter Tsevetelina Ilieva led Binghamton in points, kills and kills per set in 2022-23.

In October, Binghamton defeated UMBC 3-2, snapping the Retrievers’ 23-game win streak in AE play. Ilieva added a season-high 24 kills, along with 10 digs, in one of the team’s biggest victories of the season.

“People would probably think that our most memorable [moment] would be when we actually clinched our regular season championship against Bryant,” Ilieva said. “But I think my favorite moment was when we ended UMBC’s 23-game winning streak [in AE play] because everyone overlooked Binghamton in the past.

UMBC would always overlook Binghamton, and that was what shut them down and what showed them that Binghamton turned a whole new chapter … it was awesome because we

were at their gym.”

Despite being a transfer and being self-admittedly nervous about being new to the program, Ilieva quickly built chemistry and strong relationships with her teammates.

“I was just like this girl that came with the head coach, so I was really nervous on how they were going to react to that,” Ilieva said. “Everyone on the team helped me out, most importantly [junior outside hitter Stefana Stan] really made Binghamton feel like home.

The girls accepted me for who I was and that was one of my major reasons for me to succeed because they bring out the best player in me.”

With every starter in the lineup returning for the 2023 season, Ilieva and the

Bearcats will look to replicate their success and win the AE tournament. The rising senior attributed much of her success to Binghamton head coach Allie Yaeger and her teammates, who welcomed her into the program with open arms. “[Coach Yaeger] helped me a lot,” Ilieva said. “She deserves a huge shout-out because obviously she turned me into the player I am today. I’m very, very, very excited because I think we have unfinished business because we obviously have a lot of expectations now to prove to everyone that it was not just a one-season type of thing … we will do everything we can to bring back the [AE] championship [to Binghamton].”

megan patterson staff photographer

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Tuesday, August 22, 2023

Binghamton wins American East Comissioner’s Cup cup from page 1 America East (AE) conference commissioner Brad Walker announced that Binghamton had won the 2022-23 Stuart P. Haskell Jr. Commissioner’s Cup, marking the first time BU Athletics has captured the honor in its 22year Division I (D1) program history.

“It’s a good feeling [to win the commissioner’s cup],” said Binghamton Athletic Director Eugene Marshall. “I want to give a special thanks to [President Harvey Stenger] for really believing in the athletic department and trying to help us, from where he sits, to put us in a position to do this.”

The Commissioner’s Cup

recognizes the strongest athletics program on an annual basis in the AE, using a scoring system that rewards programs’ performances in both the regular season and in postseason competition.

Binghamton earned the victory with 367 points, beating out runner-up Albany, which tallied 335 points and third place UMBC, which received 292 points. Vermont, UMass Lowell, UNH, Maine, Bryant and NJIT rounded out the bottom six teams in the standings.

“This is a great next step and a building block to secure Bearcat athletics in a winning light,” Marshall said. “This really helps us to build a

winning culture which I will now call Bearcat culture.”

In the fall, BU netted a regular season title and an AE tournament runner-up finish from its women’s soccer team along with another regular season title from its volleyball team, earning 46 and 27 points, respectively. In addition, the men’s and women’s cross country teams captured runner-up conference finishes, earning 32 points each to put Binghamton in second place with 128 points after the conclusion of the fall season.

The Bearcats climbed into first place during the winter season after strong performances from the men’s basketball and indoor track and

field teams, who combined for another 80 points, ultimately bringing Binghamton’s total up to 224 points.

Binghamton’s success continued in the spring with multiple teams having historically strong seasons.

The men’s and women’s lacrosse teams, outdoor track and field teams, baseball team and softball team raised the Bearcats’ total point count to 367, giving them about a 30-point edge, and the victory, over in-state rivals Albany.

“It’s a team effort,” Marshall said. “Everybody has a part in this. As the leader you just try to motivate and support everybody as they carry out their missions during their season

… our goal now is to win more regular season championships and to win some conference championships.”

Overall, BU Athletics earned seven runner-up program finishes while also maintaining an overall AE win percentage of just under 60 percent. Four Binghamton coaching staff also earned recognition for best in the AE. Additionally, BU also had three All-Americans named across three sports.

“For us to come in second in seven sports and eight out of ten sports being in the top four and then having some All Americans, some coaching staffs of the year…”

Marshall said. “This is what is going to build the foundation

to win some individual championships.”

After winning the Commissioner’s Cup, Marshall also expressed his strong desire to continue supporting BU’s athletic programs by encouraging more student attendance, community involvement at athletic events and higher funding for several BU sports teams.

“We want to be able to have a packed house and make our place a tough place to play,” Marshall said. “[Winning the Commissioner’s Cup] is not the end. It is just the beginning of this process. “

Neel Bhattacharjee named Pipe Dream’s Coach of the Year Women’s soccer head coach leads team to AE championship game, first seed finish.

Aidan Jennings

sports contributor

Binghamton head coach Neel Bhattacharjee has spearheaded the women’s soccer program since December 2015, and is now getting ready to enter his eighth season as the coach of the team. Coming off of one of the Bearcats’ most triumphant seasons yet, Bhattacharjee has continuously built a team worthy of what it has achieved over the course of his tenure so far.

During his seventh season at the helm, Bhattacharjee led the Bearcats to a firstseed finish in the America East (AE) conference, and earned the right to host the championship title game for the first time in 18 seasons.

Despite losing on penalties in the final of the postseason tournament, Bhattacharjee’s most recent season in charge has shown proof of an upward trajectory, and due to this, he has been named Pipe Dream’s

Coach of the Year.

“The biggest highlight honestly [was] just over the season how our players came together and the belief that they had in one another,” Bhattacharjee said. “We had a solid group. They care for one another, they’re selfless, they’re willing to do a lot of the right things off the field, and what we talk about within our program is staying committed to the process, believing in the process and if we do the right things on a daily basis with the process, then we know good things are going to result in the end.”

In the 2022 season, BU managed a 9-5-5 overall record, and a 6-1-1 record in AE play, while playing in its second title appearance in the last three years.

After bringing its semifinal matchup against Albany to penalties, Binghamton faced UNH in the finals, its only AE opponent to add a loss to the Bearcats’ record. Another penalty shootout would be the deciding factor in sending UNH to the NCAA tournament.

Despite falling behind 4-1 in the first half, the comeback push and resilience to stay

in a high-stakes game is a testament to Bhattacharjee and his team’s efforts.

“We’re looking forward to putting ourselves in a good position to hopefully compete for an America East title both in the regular season, and hopefully get us to a point where we can compete for an America East postseason championship again and hopefully not need to overcome that final bit and get to the NCAA tournament,” Bhattacharjee said.

For future seasons, Bhattacharjee credits the arrival of Athletics Director Eugene Marshall for further garnering a winning culture within the Binghamton athletics community.

Coinciding with the success of adjacent programs at the University, women’s soccer is one of many bright spots both now and in the future. “[Marshall] has high standards and high expectations, so he wants to win and you can feel it through the different teams,” Bhattacharjee said. “You see the success of our lacrosse teams playing in the semifinals this weekend, volleyball and

provided by bubearcats.com Binghamton head coach Neel Bhattacharjee led his squad to an AE regular season title and to the conference championship game last season.

what they did in terms of also winning the regular season title, men’s soccer making it to the semis, softball in the top two, baseball obviously having won the America East last year making it to the NCAAs. The individual performances in swimming, cross country, track [and] wrestling. It’s just an exciting time to be a Bearcat right now and that energy, it’s very palpable when you walk around the Events

Center and the West Gym.” Looking ahead to fall 2023, Bhattacharjee and his newlook squad will seek to defend their one-seed finish and return to the AE tournament final — but this time going for its first championship title since 2004.

“Yes, they’re very good soccer players and want to compete at a high level, but at the same time they understand how important our culture

is, and that’s something we certainly spend some time to work on both on the field and off the field,” Bhattacharjee said. “So for us, it means having a strong team bond and a strong team culture, and if we do that, that’s where as a team we can come together, whether it means celebrating terrific moments and big wins or being in a position where we can overcome any kind of adverse situations.”

Jacob Nolan selected as Pipe Dream’s Male Athlete of the Year Redshirt junior qualified for EIWA and NCAA championship tournaments last season. jacob Knipes

assistant sports editor

With a second-place finish at the Eastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Association (EIWA) Championships and two victories at the NCAA Championships, redshirt junior Jacob Nolan had his best campaign yet for the

Binghamton wrestling team during the 2022-23 season.

Making the jump to the 184-pound weight class, Nolan finished with a 22-9 overall record last season, gathering multiple key wins against ranked opponents along the way.

In recognition of his improvements and accomplishments this season, Nolan has secured Pipe Dream’s Male Athlete of the Year award.

This marks the third time in the last four years that a wrestler has received the award.

“It’s really an honor to win this award, to be honest with you,” Nolan said. “All the work that me and my teammates put in throughout the summer, throughout the fall, winter [and] spring, just all around really paid off this year.”

Nolan entered last offseason coming off of his second NCAA Tournament appearance, where he nabbed his second individual victory. As he trained for the new year, Nolan described how he was approached by Binghamton head coach Kyle Borshoff to jump from the

provided by sam janicki Redshirt junior Jacob Nolan finished with a 22-9 overall record in the 184-pound class last season, finishing second at the EIWA championships.

174-pound weight class to the 184-pound weight class.

“I was ready for the challenge, of course, moving up a weight and helping the team out any way possible,” Nolan said. “So I just tried to get bigger, kept trying to get better at wrestling and the jump in weight class really paid off for me this year.”

One of the first major victories by Nolan in his new class came during the Bearcats’ second dual meet of the year, as they matched up against No. 11 Minnesota. Coming in ranked No. 22, Nolan faced off against then-No. 10 Isaiah Salazar, and managed to secure a tight 5-4 victory after holding off Salazar defensively in the final seconds.

“It really, really showed me that I belong,” Nolan said. “I belonged in this weight class, and I’m one of the best guys in the weight class. So that was a real big confidence booster, definitely.”

After his strong regular season, Nolan entered the EIWA Tournament as the second seed in his class, looking to improve upon a fourth-place finish at last year’s tournament. He would do just that, making it all the way to his first career EIWA

finals appearance, alongside securing an automatic berth to his third NCAA tournament, before falling short in his final matchup to finish second.

“I mean, it’s a really great atmosphere,” Nolan said.

“Binghamton wrestles in one of the hardest conferences in the country, so just to be in the finals of a tournament like that really shows that the work you’re putting in pays off. And it was just a great experience, to experience that with my teammates, my coaches and my family. It really meant a lot.”

The success continued at the NCAA tournament. While Nolan was immediately sent to the consolation bracket by just a point in his first-round matchup, the grappler notched victories in the first two rounds of the consolation bracket.

Not only was this Nolan’s first NCAA Tournament appearance with multiple wins, but he also secured his first major decision win at the tournament with a 12-1 victory over Gardner Webb’s Jha’Quan Anderson in the second consolation round.

Nolan’s season came to an end in the next round when he fell short against the tournament’s eventual eighth-place finisher.

“Both the kids I lost [to] ended up on the podium, and that was kind of hard to watch,” Nolan said. “I mean, after I got eliminated, just knowing how close I actually am to becoming an All-American and the level I’m at. It’s kind of hard to watch other guys that you lost by a point [be] on the podium instead of you, but that’s just extra motivation for next year.”

Moving forward, Nolan said he would focus this offseason on healing up and continuing to grow his strength. Nolan credited his coaches, teammates and parents for supporting him during his career thus far.

“Being a smaller school at Binghamton, they really do a great job producing high-level wrestlers, and I owe them so much,” Nolan said. “They’ve helped me grow in every way.

They push me every day and make sure I’m getting better.

Coach [Borshoff], [Binghamton assistant head coach Fred Garcia], especially [Binghamton assistant head coach Lou DePrez]. [DePrez] pushed me on the mat for the last three years, and now he’s on our coaching staff … Having those guys giving me little things to work on, it really helps.”