The Quinnipiac Chronicle, Volume 91, Issue 21

APRIL 28, 2021 • VOLUME 91 • ISSUE 21

The official student newspaper of Quinnipiac University since 1929

ILLUSTRATION BY CONNOR LAWLESS

Senior send-offs p. 4-7

PHOTO FROM WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

NEWS P.2: COVID-19 VACCINE ON CAMPUS Quinnipiac will host Pfizer COVID-19 vaccination clinics starting this week

INFOGRAPHIC BY ASHLEY PELLETIER

A&L P.8: EMPOWERING WOMEN IN FILM New organization on campus creates a community for women in the film industry

MORGAN TENCZA/CHRONICLE (2020)

SPORTS P.10-11: SPORTS AWARDS Riley Millette and Peter Piekarski pick this year’s best athletes and coaches

George Floyd’s murderer convicted, QU community reacts

By MELINA KHAN Associate News Editor

Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was convicted on April 20, for the murder of George Floyd, following 10 months of protests against police brutality, including some initiated by Quinnipiac University community members.

Chauvin was found guilty of second and third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter for Floyd’s death. In viral footage from May 25, 2020, Chauvin was seen kneeling on Floyd’s neck for nearly nine minutes as Floyd struggled to breathe. Police were initially called to the scene of Cup Foods convenience store in Minneapolis after Floyd allegedly used a counterfeit $20 bill.

“When I heard the verdict via the livestream, I was relieved but not satisfied,” said Jennifer Greene, a junior public relations and media studies double major.

Greene said watching Chauvin’s trial was upsetting because although there was substantial evidence against him, due to the authority of police officers, it was not clear if Chauvin would be charged.

“This was a significant case in that it is equally rare that you would find a law enforcement officer convicted of a crime,” said Kalfani Ture, assistant professor of criminal justice and former police officer. “So that I’m certain was

on the mind of the prosecutorial team that a conviction was possibly unlikely.”

Ture credited the evidence and the “diverse array” of witnesses presented by the prosecution as the key influences in the case. Among the witnesses called to testify was Darnella Frazier, the 18-year-old who originally filmed the video of the incident that would later go viral.

“I only hope, and I felt in my heart, that the verdict didn’t just give the family relief, it didn’t just give the community relief, it didn’t just give the members of the police community who witnessed this atrocious and gratuitous act of violence relief, but it gave that young girl relief,” Ture said, referencing Frazier.

Ture said the result of this case is a form of accountability but not justice, as there are still systemic issues in policing that need to be addressed.

Dawn Cathey, a former New Haven police sergeant who currently teaches courses at Quinnipiac including “Racism as a Public Health Emergency in Hamden” and “The Future of Policing in America” echoed Ture’s sentiment that police reform is imminent.

“I think that the police department is one part of an overall issue with the criminal justice system,” Cathey said. “So I think that that’s where the reform has to be collaborative and it has to be done in a way that we are

addressing the police department and the law and the criminal justice system, but we’re also looking at systemic racism at the same time.”

Under Minnesota criminal code, seconddegree murder “causes the death of a human

being, without intent to effect the death of any person, while committing or attempting to commit a felony offense.”

See CHAUVIN Page 3

PHOTO FROM CHAD DAVIS/FLICKR

Protestors marched in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the day before the trial of former police officer Derek Chauvin who was found guilty of murdering George Floyd.

2| News

MEET THE EDITORS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Michael Sicoli MANAGING EDITORS Emily Flamme Toyloy Brown III CREATIVE DIRECTOR Connor Lawless NEWS EDITORS Nicole McIsaac Chatwan Mongkol ASSOCIATE NEWS EDITOR Melina Khan OPINION EDITOR Xavier Cullen ARTS & LIFE EDITOR Ashley Pelletier ASSOCIATE ARTS & LIFE EDITORS David Matos Neha Seenarine SPORTS EDITOR Riley Millette ASSOCIATE SPORTS EDITOR Peter Piekarski PODCAST PRODUCER Kalleen Rose Ozanic ASSOCIATE PODCAST PRODUCER Brendan Samson COPY EDITOR Katie Langley

The Quinnipiac Chronicle

‘It just shows they care:’ Quinnipiac to administer Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine

By MELINA KHAN Associate News Editor

Quinnipiac University students are looking forward to going no farther than Burt Kahn Court to receive their COVID-19 vaccinations during the on-campus clinic on April 29-30.

The clinic will begin on campus starting April 29, from noon to 5 p.m. and April 30, from 8 a.m. to noon. Quinnipiac has partnered with Griffin Hospital to administer the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to students.

Due to the two-dose process of the Pfizer vaccine, the university will host a second vaccine clinic on Friday, May 21, and Monday, May 24, from noon to 5 p.m.

Students who have already received their first dose and are due for their second during the week of April 25, can receive their second at the clinic.

Registration for the first clinic is available through a link sent in an email on April 22, from Bethany Zemba, vice president and chief of staff. Students must bring their driver’s license, student ID and copy of their health insurance card to their appointment. There will be a separate registration for the second clinic.

“This is something we’ve talked about for a very long time,” said David Hill, Quinnipiac’s senior medical adviser. “We felt it was important if we were encouraging students to be vaccinated that we provide as many op-

Staff Writer

Sign up for our weekly newsletter, by emailing Michael Sicoli at michael.sicoli@quinnipiac.edu.

Search “Chron-versations” and “Chronicle Weekly Report” on streaming platforms for the latest news.

THE CHRONICLE is distributed around all three university campuses every Wednesday when school is in session except during exam periods. Single copies are free. Newspaper theft is a crime. Those who violate the single copy rule may be subject to civil and criminal prosecution and/or subject to university discipline. Please report suspicious activity to university security (203-582-6200). For additional copies, contact the student media office for rates.

ADVERTISING inquiries can be sent to thequchronicle@gmail.com.

Inquiries must be made a week prior to publication.

SEND TIPS, including news tips, corrections or suggestions to Michael Sicoli at thequchronicle@gmail.com LETTERS TO THE EDITOR should be between 250 and 400 words and must be approved by the editor-inchief before going to print. The Chronicle reserves the right to edit all material, including advertising, based on content, grammar and space requirements. Send letters to thequchronicle@gmail.com. The opinions expressed in this paper are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the Chronicle.

SEE WHAT’S HAPPENING ON

QUCHRONICLE.COM Our award-winning website since 2009

JOIN US

Staff Meetings on Tuesdays at 9:15 p.m. on Zoom

CONNECT @quchronicle The Quinnipiac Chronicle @quchronicle

portunities as possible for that to happen.”

Hill said the university had originally planned to administer the Johnson & Johnson vaccine due to its one-dose process, but because of the rare blood clot cases and temporary pause in distribution, they shifted to Pfizer instead.

“It’s really the effort to assure that students who would like to be vaccinated, are vaccinated,” Hill said.

As to whether the university will mandate vaccinations for students in the fall semester, Hill said it is currently not the administration’s plan.

“I do think it’s possible that we would require vaccination, but right now we’re not at that step,” Hill said. “The step now is to encourage students for their own health and the health of others and for the future of our campus.”

Other universities, like Yale and Wesleyan universities, have already announced they will be requiring students to be vaccinated against COVID-19 for the fall semester.

Tahj Sutherland, a first-year economics major, is planning to receive his first vaccination during the clinic on April 29.

“There’s a social influence of everyone else doing it, and the idea that ‘After I get it we can slowly kind of move back to normal life,’” Sutherland said of the decision to receive his vaccination.

Sutherland said he has not yet decided if he will return to campus for his second dose, but he is appreciative that Quinnipiac is offering students the opportunity to do so.

“A lot of clinics outside of here like Yale, they’re getting booked up quickly,” Sutherland said. “And there’s an urgency for people to get (vaccinated) now, so (Quinnipiac) providing it just shows they care.”

Aidan Copell, a first-year computer science major, is also planning on getting vaccinated at the Quinnipiac clinic. He said he hopes distributing vaccines on campus will encourage more students to get vaccinated.

“Most of the discouragement comes from the lack of appointments,” Copell said. “Now we are all able to be vaccinated.”

Leea Cotter, a first-year political science major, said she was trying to schedule her first dose before Quinnipiac announced the on-campus clinic but had difficulty due to the lack of appointments.

“I think (the on-campus clinic) is a good opportunity for students who might not have access right away in their home states,” Cotter said.

Students who are interested in learning more about on-campus vaccinations can visit the page on Quinnipiac’s website for vaccine information, or email the COVID-19 support center at covid19supportcenter@qu.edu.

Incoming students prepare for their future at QU

By KRYSTAL MILLER

THE QUINNIPIAC CHRONICLE is the proud recipient of the New England Society of Newspaper Editors’ award for College Newspaper of the Year in New England for 2011-12, 2012-13 and 2015-16.

April 28, 2021

As the end of the spring semester approaches, Quinnipiac University’s newly-admitted students are preparing themselves for the changes ahead.

Karli Monsell, an incoming health sciences major from Bellport, New York, currently attends Bellport Senior High School. She has been planning to attend Quinnipiac since middle school when her cousin attended.

“I got an acceptance letter sitting in English (class), and I started crying,” Monsell said. “I knew the second I got their letter I was going to go here.”

After unsuccessfully getting into the entry-level masters physician assistant (ELMPA) program, she switched to health sciences and found that it was a better choice for her.

Shamara Wethington Mizell from Hamden, Connecticut, was another student who was thrilled to receive her acceptance letter.

She is an incoming law in society and education double major, and said she knew the university was for her because of its location and rigorous programs. She emphasized her appreciation for Quinnipiac staying in contact and updating her on her acceptance.

“I was very excited when I received my letter and felt very appreciated that they took the time to read my essay and help me find a program that I would fit in,” Wethington Mizell said.

Katherine Houck of Westfield High School, an incoming radiologic science major from Westfield, Massachusetts, also was motivated to come to Quinnipiac by her great interest in the program. Houck said she was impressed by the program and technology supplied.

While other colleges such as Springfield Technical and Holyoke community colleges did not guarantee her admission to her specific major, Quinnipiac immediately accepted her.

“I am so excited to be joining Quinnipiac,” Houck said. “I see myself involving myself in so many clubs, events and organizations Quinnipiac has to offer and having hands-on experience with radiological sciences and their technology.”

Shannon O’Hare, an incoming ELMPA major from Ocean Township, New Jersey, has goals of branching out from her comfort zone

as well. She currently attends the Academy of Allied Health and Science. She was drawn to Quinnipiac by all the programs it had to offer.

After visiting campus, she said she fell in love.

“I see it being a wonderful opportunity to meet new people and get a good education,” O’Hare said.

Jack Zreviec of Middletown High School North, an incoming business major from Middletown, New Jersey, is ready to become involved on campus.

“I see myself as a proud member of the university and active all around campus,” Zreviec said.

He said he committed to Quinnipiac for the school spirit and the great business program. Getting accepted created a sense of relief and excitement for Zreviec.

Kaitlyn Snow, an incoming occupational therapy major who will soon graduate from Danbury High School in Danbury, Connecticut, also noticed the positive environment on campus.

“I came for the occupational therapy program and the friendly campus atmosphere I saw when going on campus,” Snow said.

Snow is planning to get involved in activities and grow her career while also looking forward to living on campus and making new friends.

Gianna Conti, an incoming nursing major from Weymouth, Massachusetts, is enthusiastic about joining the community on campus.

She currently attends Weymouth High School where she was overjoyed to receive her acceptance letter in the mail.

Two aspects attracted Conti to the university over her other options.

“I applied to Quinnipiac for their amazing academics and athletics,” Conti said.

The university will hold its orientation for incoming students on Aug. 25-26, allowing new students to get comfortable with their new home. Classes will begin for undergraduates on Aug. 30.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY KARLI MONSELL

Karli Monsell celebrated her acceptance to Quinnipiac University’s class of 2025.

The Quinnipiac Chronicle

April 28, 2021

News |3

Soon-to-be unemployed: Seniors stay optimistic despite difficult job search Management instructor Patricia Kelly said students must be adaptable and know their Senior theater major Nicole Gibson has apworth while expanding their job search to plied for a post-college job at over 99 places but include roles that allow them to develop and has not yet secured any position. She is worried enhance their skills. she will become unemployed after graduation.

“You may not always find an open position Gibson is not the only upcoming graduin your desired industry, but (think about) what ate who faces uncertainty. skills can you apply to the open positions,” Kelly Quinnipiac University class of 2021 students said. “Students should be prepared to understand are graduating, joining around 1.97 million anthe value of their transferable skills, and some ticipated bachelor’s degree graduates across the students are seeing great success in the hiring nation looking for a placement in the labor marprocess as of now.” ket. They said job hunting now is more difficult While students are worried about their than ever because of the COVID-19 pandemic. uncertain future, the National Association of “I’m searching for jobs. I’m applying wherColleges and Employers (NACE) reported ever I can, whatever I can, whether it’s remote last year that the hiring outlook for the class or near me,” Gibson said. “I’m trying to put my of 2021 graduates is more positive than it was eggs in the basket and see whoever takes me.” expected. From surveying 227 companies, the Although Gibson had experience working NACE found that 52.5% of them expect to at a hiring company during the summer for two maintain their 2020 hiring level while 31% of years, she noticed that many companies are not them expect to decrease their hiring. ready to welcome new employees as they conAccording to the Staffing Industry Analtinue with their hiring freeze policies. ysis, NACE also found in March that em“It feels like you’re so eager to go out there ployers expect to hire 7.2% more college and get a job and show what you’ve learned, graduates from the class of 2021 than they but at the same time, everyone’s just trying did from the class of 2020. to take precaution, so there is (no) middle Senior film, television and media arts major ground,” Gibson said.

Juwan Watkins-Green also remains optimistic Gibson wants to enter the theater and about his path to a professional career after he entertainment field, but since many theaters applied for film-related positions at over 40 stuhave been shut down since last spring, it is dios since last fall. difficult for her to look for positions in the Even though Watkins-Green said he is confifield. However, she said she is hopeful as thedent more opportunities will be opening back up aters are slowly reopening. this summer given that people are receiving their According to the United States Bureau of LaCOVID-19 vaccinations, he said he has some bor Statistics (USBLS), the unemployment rate concerns. In the meantime, he plans to go back to among people ages 16-24 is at 11.1% in March, his hometown of Boston to work on other jobs. which increased from 10.2% in the same month “Right now, I feel a little bit fine,” Watkinslast year. In 2021, the unemployment rate among Green said. “But I think if we get to the end of young people hit its highest point since 2015 summer and I still haven’t found anything, then during the first three months of the year.

I’ll definitely get a little worrisome.”

The hiring landscape has changed in the past year. Kelly said employers are changing the way they recruit. She said companies use empathy along with technology and data to make more efficient hiring decisions.

“Post-COVID companies should be prioritizing employee well-being to have a better chance of finding and retaining talent,” Kelly said.

“Top talent will always appreciate understanding that beyond the recruitment process, there still lies that human connection, which quite frankly is critical post-COVID.” With more emphasis on interThe unemployment rate for personal skills throughout the hirpeople ages 16-24 is 11.1% ing process, entrepreneurship and strategy associate professor Dale as of March 2021

By CHATWAN MONGKOL News Editor

INFOGRAPHIC BY CONNOR LAWLESS

ILLUSTRATION BY CONNOR LAWLESS

Jasinski said experience and networking became more important, but also more difficult to gain as a result of the pandemic.

“Internships and other experiential opportunities were severely limited by the pandemic starting last summer, which is typically the best time of year to get those important hands-on experiences leading into the job-searching season,” Jasinski said. “The ability to network in person and attend networking functions was also taken away from graduating seniors.”

Senior marketing major Ja’sean JohnsonHenry had first-hand experience of getting his internship program cancelled. With most networking events turning virtual, he said it impacted his job-hunting process.

“Personally, the lack of face-to-face interaction has hurt the navigation of job searching,” Johnson-Henry said. “Interviews on Zoom can get kind of awkward, and possible technical difficulties can ruin the pace of an interview.”

Jasinski advised students to invest in the best Zoom-ready technology to better their chance to express themselves through a rectangular screen.

He also said students need to be more aggressive in building their network during times like these.

Although many industries saw a decline in their hiring, some industries are more demanding. According to the USBLS, the health care industry is expected to grow 15% from 2019-29 in terms of its employment.

Senior health science studies major Asiyah Neal, who wants to become a pharmacist, said she is excited to know that her chosen industry is thriving. Even though she will go to graduate school in a few months and is not looking for a job in the industry, she plans to get a part-time babysitting job during the summer.

“I think that it’s harder than usual to get a job now because a lot of roles have changed or are not available at all due to COVID,” Neal said.

“Unless you’re going into health care, it’s very difficult to find an internship that will give you great experience in your field.”

Another field that is expected to grow in coming years is the field of freelance jobs,

as CNBC reported. In the summer of 2020, over 36% of young adults aged 18-22 have started freelance work. CNBC also reported that 75% of those who quit their jobs to become freelancers earn the same or more in pay than their traditional jobs.

“The gig economy is not limited to Uber drivers,” Jasinski said. “In other words, companies are increasingly turning to people (and saying), and this includes college graduates, ‘I will hire you only when I need you.’”

To be successful in the self-employment world, Jasinski said students need to think like an entrepreneur and manage their own personal brand.

Senior journalism major Marianna Rappa is someone who is considering going into the freelance world after he applied for traditional jobs at around 50 companies but only got rejections.

“I’m a little stressed right now with finding a job,” Rappa said. “I have friends who have gotten internships and jobs straight out of college and I’m sitting here like ‘How did you do that?’

I don’t understand.”

However, he plans to work as a freelancer in the journalism field to save money before opening his own business in the future.

“The dream of opening a restaurant didn’t really (interest) me until recently,” Rappa said. “I’d rather have my own business where I can do my own thing and have my own logo, have my own website, have everything. Just like, be my own boss.”

Jasinski explained that the pandemic made more people realize that it is more risky to rely on others for their own future than to create their own businesses and rely on themselves.

Even though students are facing several challenges, Kelly said that the career development team and faculty at Quinnipiac work tirelessly to help them to know their worth in the marketplace.

“I am confident that our students are ready upon graduation for navigating successfully in their careers in the future,” Kelly said.

Cathey: ‘I think that the police department is one part of an overall issue with the criminal justice system’ CHAUVIN from cover “In this case, the felony was third-degree assault. Here, the prosecution opted not to charge him with intentionally causing Floyd’s death,” said Steve Walsh, a legal studies professor and lawyer.

According to Minnesota criminal code, “whoever, without intent to effect the death of any person, causes the death of another by perpetrating an act eminently dangerous to others and evincing a depraved mind, without regard for human life, is guilty of murder in the third degree.”

“Here, the prosecution claimed kneeling on his neck for nine-plus minutes was eminently dangerous and doing this while Floyd hand-

cuffed and said numerous times that he was unable to breathe shows reckless disregard for human life,” Walsh said.

Minnesota criminal code states a person is guilty of manslaughter in the second degree “whereby the person creates an unreasonable risk, and consciously takes chances of causing death or great bodily harm to another.”

“Kneeling on Floyd’s neck for nine-plus minutes creates an unreasonable risk of causing death or great bodily injury and he knelt on his neck consciously,” Walsh said.

Following the verdict, President Judy Olian and Vice President for Equity and Inclusion Don Sawyer said Quinnipiac “will continue to take actions that promote lasting and community-wide progress to build a

more inclusive, welcoming and compassionate community and to nurture in our students and graduates a commitment to contribute to a just society that values all.”

They also announced an open Zoom forum with faculty members on April 26, to discuss the Chauvin case.

Floyd’s death sparked nationwide movements and calls for systemic change, including some initiated by Quinnipiac students and faculty last June.

A petition started by former Quinnipiac student Sokaina Asar calling for “change and support” from Quinnipiac administrators on matters of racial injustice gained over 4,500 signatures.

Other students began a movement to share the stories of non-white Quinnipiac students and

fundraise for Black Lives Matter via Instagram.

The Quinnipiac Faculty Senate released a three-page statement sharing commitments to progress through the university curriculum and other university-wide events.

One of these events was a webinar with Floyd’s aunt Angela Harrison and uncle Selwyn Jones last October. They told attendees to continue fighting against injustice and stay hopeful.

In July, Olian shared the implementation of a 10-point plan to advance racial justice at Quinnipiac. Since then, the university has created an optional diversity, equity and inclusion course for students. According to an email from Sawyer, the university will share an update on the progress of the plan with the community on April 28.

The Quinnipiac Chronicle

4 |Send-offs

April 28, 2021

Senior send-offs Meet your second family “I met some of the best people I’ve ever met in my life, and I’ll forever hold onto the friendships I made”

BY BRENDAN O’SULLIVAN Former Editor-In-Chief

This stings.

I knew this day would come, but I didn’t want to think about it. I wanted to pretend that I’d never have to write this piece, reminiscing on my years with The Chronicle.

But here I am, signing off as editor-in-chief.

I joined The Chronicle in the fall semester of my freshman year, knowing I wanted to be a sports writer. I had been writing since I was 16 and knew it would be what I wanted to pursue in college.

I started covering games and writing features. A semester later, I was promoted to associate sports editor. Another semester went by, and I was promoted to sports editor. I learned how to edit and critique work within the sports section.

But it was just the sports section at that point. Don’t get me wrong, Jared Penna, my best friend and co-sports editor, and I always published strong articles each week and were proud of what the section became.

However, I often would sit in the “sports corner” of the media suite to edit and layout articles on deadline day. Besides talking to Jared and former Editor-in-Chief Bryan Murphy, I barely had any interaction with the rest of the editorial board. I just wanted to get my work done.

That was my problem, though. I was so tunnel-visioned on my work that I forgot to meet people, socialize and build relationships that ultimately would form a second family.

So, in the spring semester of my sophomore year, I did just that. I left the corner. I talked to people. I edited more than

– BRENDAN O’SULLIVAN FORMER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

just sports, expanding my knowledge of how to write, report and edit a variety of different topics. I learned photography and design, too. I grew a lot.

And because of this, I had the confidence to go for editorin-chief. I wanted the position. I not only wanted to grow as an editor, but also be put in a position that would help me grow as a person.

It did. I knew it would, but I didn’t expect it to benefit me this much.

Sure, my editing, writing, leadership and journalistic tools improved, but let’s forget that for now. I met some of the best people I’ve ever met in my life, and I’ll forever hold onto the friendships I made.

That’s what is more important. Don’t get me wrong, you should always work hard. But don’t get lost in the work, otherwise you’ll miss out on the crucial moments that will make your experience so memorable.

So as I sign off, remember to leave the corner. Go socialize with people and build the relationships that will make a club feel like a family.

PHOTO BY MORGAN TENCZA/CHRONICLE

Brendan O’Sullivan encourages people to ‘leave the corner’ and build strong relationships in college.

Notable milestones with The Chronicle Appointed as associate sports editor for The Chronicle Nov. 16, 2018

Promoted to sports editor for The Chronicle April 8, 2019

Covered the MAAC tournament in Atlantic City, New Jersey March 2020

Promoted to editor-in-chief for The Chronicle March 5, 2020

Published his final issue as editor-in-chief April 21, 2021

Put yourself out there

BY JESSICA SIMMS

Former Managing Editor

I would be lying if I said that writing this send-off was the easiest article I have ever written for The Chronicle. This farewell took me a few tries as it is hard to put into just a few hundred words what this organization means to me.

I went to my first-ever Chronicle meeting the first week of my freshman year. I was that shy freshman that nervously sat in the back of School of Business room 123 (SB 123), a little intimidated by the knowledgeable older members. However, I knew at that meeting I wanted to join this organization, and I am so glad I did.

By no means am I proud of my first-ever Chronicle article (please do not look it up), but I quickly realized that The Chronicle was the place to grow as a reporter and a writer. During my staff writer days, I learned the basics of Associate Press (AP) style, how to properly interview someone and how to write a solid lede. The older members took me under their wings and taught me how to organize my articles and the process they go through when they edit. Safe to say, without The Chronicle, I would not be the journalist that I am today.

Over the years, The Chronicle became even more than just a Tuesday night club. I joined the editorial board (e-board) my sophomore year as the associate arts & life editor. Junior year, I was promoted to arts & life editor and then finally, senior year, I became one of the managing editors. My Tuesdays were no longer a normal day full of class and homework — they were known as “deadline days.” From morning until evening, I would spend my day in the media suite, editing articles and laying out the paper. Yes, they were long and tiring, but I wouldn’t change a thing about them.

Over the course of those long Tuesdays, I bonded with my fellow e-board members. We would crack jokes, rant about our days and, yes, talk journalism. I learned a lot from the three eboards I have been a part of, and by the end of the first semester, they felt more like a second family than just my colleagues.

Saying goodbye to this organization is one of the hardest things that comes with graduating. It is hard to imagine that my Tuesdays will no longer be spent in the media suite, and when I see the new Chronicle edition on the newspaper racks, I will actually have to pick it up and read it to know what was printed.

To my mentors, thank you for teaching me the basics of journalism. Without you, I wouldn’t be where I am today. You helped me realize that it is OK to make mistakes and learn from them and that The Chronicle is the organization that will help you learn and grow.

To my fellow e-board members, thank you for giving me the most amazing three years. While Tuesdays are tough, the media suite was where some of my best college memories took place.

Thank you for helping me become a better journalist, editor and colleague. Even though there was a lot of joking around, I learned so much from each and every one of you.

To the upcoming e-board, you guys are going to be incredible. Just remember that when the days get tough, student media is essential. You give the community a voice. Without you, some stories will never be told.

Lastly, to that shy freshman that sat in the back of SB 123, thank you for putting yourself out there. Without you, I would not be writing this farewell to an organization that has given me so much, and I would probably not be as passionate about the profession I want to go into. Thank you for putting yourself out of your comfort zone and joining The Quinnipiac Chronicle.

PHOTO BY MORGAN TENCZA/CHRONICLE

Jessica Simms says the best part of The Chronicle is the relationships she’s built over the years.

Notable milestones with The Chronicle Appointed as associate arts & life editor for The Chronicle Nov. 16, 2018

Promoted to arts & life editor for The Chronicle April 8, 2019

Travelled to Washington, D.C., for the Collegiate Media Conference Oct. 31-Nov. 3, 2019

Promoted to managing editor for The Chronicle April 2020

Broke the news of the Athletic Training program closing October 2020

The Quinnipiac Chronicle

April 28, 2021

Send-offs|5

Senior send-offs Stick with it

BY EMILY DISALVO

Former Arts & Life Editor

Countless times in the past three years, I have asked myself why I keep doing this.

Each week since my first week of freshman year, I have signed up to write an article, sometimes more. Each semester I have tried out for another role, another chance to devote my weeks to writing, interviewing, editing and ultimately telling stories.

For those of you who have been a part of The Chronicle, you know it’s a full-time job. You have classes, internships and other organizations but for some reason you let those 12 pages eat up your weekends and your evenings.

I have covered multiple other places and institutions since I started at Quinnipiac University, one of which was the United States Congress.

I can confidently say that the reason I kept writing for The Chronicle, despite the exhaustion, the countless interviews and the extra work was because there is no organization that will prepare you for life as a real journalist like this one.

In Washington, D.C., I was working on a piece on the SAFE Banking Act. For those of you outside of the C-SPAN fanatics club, that’s a bill that would allow marijuana dispensaries to use banking services. I needed to speak with the Chair of the Senate Banking Committee Mike Crapo.

He turned out to be a slippery source to pin down. One day, after a committee meeting, I followed him into an elevator, recorder running, and I started asking questions. No rational human being is born knowing how to do this.

I learned how to do this because I once followed a cafeteria employee into the back kitchen of the cafeteria to see whether QU PHOTO BY NICOLE MCISAAC/CHRONICLE

Dining was recycling when writing for The Chronicle.

When my freelance position at the New Haven Independent led me to write a food review, luckily, The Chronicle gave me that experience. Not only was I a skilled critic of Chartwells’ cuisine, but I was well-versed in analyzing New Haven’s pizza scene.

The Chronicle also helped me to become more informed. In the last three years, I have attended more discussions, town halls, rallies and conferences than I can count. I have interviewed people like President Judy Olian, members of the facilities team and students from all walks of life.

I consider myself immensely privileged to have had the chance to learn from these people and these experiences, and I have been motivated in some cases to take action. After hearing the stories of Black students on campus, I decided to write a piece drawing attention to the racism they faced in hopes of affecting change.

Lastly, I have learned so much from the people I have worked alongside in The Chronicle newsroom. You all have an incredible drive, and Quinnipiac is a better place because of your diligence in unveiling the real story behind the 10-point plan.

Thank you Jess Ruderman, Amanda Perelli and Christina Popik for mentoring me as a freshman and encouraging me not to give up (even on the weeks when I had to write the entire news section). The best thing about The Chronicle is the network of hardworking people who have stuck with this organization for no reason other than passion.

So to answer my own question, I kept doing this because even when it feels like I hate it, I love it. Journalism really matters.

Whether or not I even continue to do journalism for my career means very little when I consider the lessons I learned here about persistence, versatility and the power of teamwork.

Emily DiSalvo has written over 130 articles for The Chronicle, covering every section.

Notable milestones with The Chronicle Wrote first news article, “Channeling change” September 2018

Won a QU-litzer for her story, “CAS in Crisis” October 2018

Appointed as news editor for The Chronicle April 2019

Interviewed President Judy Olian February 2019

Won second QU-litzer for covering Quinnipiac adminstration meetings

May 2019

Do it your way

BY MICHAEL CLEMENT Former Design Editor

Think about where you want to be in 10 years. Where in the world do you want to live? What kind of job do you want to have? How much money will you have saved up for then?

Have some ideas in mind? Great. Now throw those out the window.

Sometimes things do not go as planned. Often the trajectory of our lives changes, and our goals adjust accordingly — and that’s OK. Though you may seem lost without a set path in front of you, that does not mean there isn’t one to create yourself.

I joined The Chronicle wanting to write about sports. I wound up writing one sports story before jumping around between news, opinion and arts & life. This year, I helped design the newspaper’s layout each week.

“The key to creating your own path is perseverance. Believe that you are capable and have confidence in your own craft”

– MICHAEL CLEMENT FORMER DESIGN EDITOR

I was a slacker at first. I did not know where I was going post-graduation, and I did not know how the paper could help me get there. I used to show up to meetings without any intention of taking a story assignment, let alone becoming an editorial board member years down the road.

It’s a scary thing not knowing what life is like on the other side of your 20s, and it can easily demoralize you from taking risks. I needed a wake-up call to write more, and it was not until someone whose work I looked up to pulled me aside to motivate me.

Frustrated by my lack of engagement, my former news editor told me that I needed to grow up and have more confidence in my work. She saw what I was capable of and believed in my work before I even saw what I could do. She took a bet on my work ethic, and to both of our surprise, she was right.

From that point forward, I became more daring to try new things. I began to expand my horizons in writing and started to learn how to use design software. I took more risks with my work, and I started being recognized for it.

The key to creating your own path is perseverance. Believe that you are capable and have confidence in your own craft. Push yourself beyond your limits and do not be afraid to fall short because failure is a more valuable experience than success.

What we want to do freshman year of college is not always what we do after we graduate. In my college career, I switched majors, classes and even advisors until I found what was right for me. There is no cookie-cutter path in this world that everyone follows. Create your own and do it your way.

PHOTO BY NICOLE MCISAAC/CHRONICLE

Michael Clement’s illustrations and graphics have been included in 36 articles for The Chronicle.

Notable milestones with The Chronicle Joined The Chronicle as a contributing writer Sept. 17, 2019

Became a staff writer for The Chronicle November 2019

Appointed as design editor for The Chronicle May 2020

First time a design of his made the front cover Oct. 13, 2020

Designed his first double truck for the story “LGBTQ @ QU” Oct. 27, 2020

The Quinnipiac Chronicle

6 |Send-offs

April 28, 2021

Capture the moments

BY MORGAN TENCZA

Former Photography Editor

PHOTO BY TREY MADARA

Morgan Tencza has travelled all across the country, from Syracuse to Philadelphia, to take photos for The Chronicle.

What is The Chronicle to me? That’s certainly a tough question.

I have been involved with The Chronicle since the first week of my freshman year. Coming in as a physical therapy student, I wanted to keep my creativity flowing through my love of photography. My orientation leader pointed me in the direction of The Chronicle.

I never thought a weekly newspaper would completely shape my college experience.

Week after week, I was snapping photos of events and sports, things I have never done before, and I fell in love with every second of it. I was able to make countless connections with writers and editors by working with them each week on something new.

After being promoted to associate photo editor for the second semester of my freshman year, I realized that maybe physical therapy wasn’t really what I wanted to do. A trip to New York City to represent The Chronicle at the College Media Awards was all it took for me to get the courage to follow my dreams of working in sports media.

I went from a physical therapy student to a communication student and never once looked back.

The Chronicle has taken up so much of my time these past four years. Shooting almost every sporting event on campus week in and week out blew up my camera, my laptop and my mind, but I would not give any of it up.

I was able to travel to places I never thought I would, just to cover sports. I went to Albany, Atlantic City and Syracuse for the MAAC and NCAA basketball tournaments, Boston and Lake Placid for hockey and I even sat on the floor of my beloved Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia to capture Quinnipiac men’s basketball take on Villanova.

I am not going to lie, I have certainly been overwhelmed by all the time and effort I put in to make sure photos were taken for features and recaps. But the constant positive feedback from

“They say to never forget your college experience, so I guess for me, my memories will be flooded with Tuesday deadlines, road trips to tournaments and hours of photo editing”

– MORGAN TENCZA

FORMER PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR

members and professors was enough for me to keep coming back to my position as the photography editor semester after semester.

Even from London, where I studied abroad my junior year, my photos graced the pages of the newspaper week after week, just because I always had content on file.

They say to never forget your college experience, so I guess for me, my memories will be flooded with Tuesday deadlines, road trips to tournaments and hours of photo editing.

I am forever grateful to this organization for allowing me to capture moments of my college experience for the paper every week. I have grown so much during my time at Quinnipiac University, and a lot of that has to do with the newspaper.

Because of The Chronicle, I have lifelong friendships with the people I spent every Tuesday crammed in the media suite with or went on road trips with.

Because of The Chronicle, I have grown my knowledge to include a well-rounded understanding of everything involved in sports media.

Because of The Chronicle, I learned to follow my dreams and capture the good moments along the way.

So what is The Chronicle to me?

A newspaper. A life-changer. A family.

Notable milestones with The Chronicle Appointed as associate photo editor for The Chronicle December 2018

Travelled to Allentown, Pennsylvania, to cover the Frozen Four March 30-31, 2018

Promoted to photo editor for The Chronicle May 2018

Covered NCAA women’s tournament in Storrs, Connecticut May 2020

Covered her fourth and final MAAC tournament March 8-13, 2021

Spend your energy where it counts

BY JARED PENNA

Former Managing Editor

Keeping positive is hard. Although this sentiment is a bit worn out, it’s been especially difficult over this past year. But staying true to the mindset of being positive, of choosing to be positive every chance that you are given, can drastically change your life.

My experiences with The Chronicle taught me plenty during my time at Quinnipiac University, but perhaps no lesson feels as important or worthwhile as this one.

I wouldn’t say that my time at Quinnipiac has been fantastic.

I’ve never felt entirely comfortable here, like I was an observer watching those around me operate but never quite getting it myself. No matter my effort, it seemed that there was some sort of fundamental, cultural difference between myself and this school.

But by no means was it all bad. The first place that I started feeling a bit more comfortable was at The Chronicle. I didn’t go to my first meeting until one full month into my freshman year, and walking in the room I was nervous. Leaving the room I was nervous. And it stayed that way for probably another month. But I was comfortable.

I finally had my silver lining.

I had found a place here that made me feel more at home.

Suddenly there was this club that could distract me, even if just for a little while, from all of the pressure and stress of my discomfort here. Finally, there was something I could focus on to stay positive.

No matter what it was, whatever stress I had or uncomfortable feeling I was dealing with, in the back of my mind I was always thinking, “Hey, at least I got The Chronicle,”

and that was a choice. I could have sat in my discomfort and let it bring me down, I could have focused on it entirely, but instead, I chose not to.

I chose to stay positive. Each person only has so much energy, and I made the decision to direct all of mine toward only the things that brought me joy and comfort.

That decision was life-changing. Once you let go of all of the things that bring you down and you stop giving them power by entertaining them with your attention and time, life becomes so much brighter. Stress fades away and all that’s left are the things that bring you joy because you chose to pour your energy and focus into them.

I was lucky enough to enjoy being a part of The Chronicle for almost three full years. I was surrounded by fantastic people who, whether they realized it or not, helped to create an environment that made me feel as if I fit in, and that was new for me here.

People like Logan Reardon, Bryan Murphy, Peter Dewey, TJ Brown and Emily Flamme, they helped me realize that no matter where you are, there are things to be happy about. There are people who will make you feel glad and lucky to know them.

They gave me that joy, somewhere to put my energy and focus, so I could let go of the other stressors in life.

So wherever you are, no matter how isolated or uncomfortable you feel, you will find a reason to smile. Sometimes you’ll need to seek it out, other times it will come to you, but regardless of where you are you can find something to be happy about.

And so why not put all of your energy into what makes you happy?

PHOTO BY WILL FOWLER

Jared Penna said that The Chronicle was the ‘silver lining’ of his college experience.

Notable milestones with The Chronicle Went to his first Chronicle meeting September 2018

Appointed as associate sports editor for The Chronicle December 2018

Promoted to sports editor for The Chronicle April 2019

Travelled to Washington, D.C., for the Collegiate Media Conference October 2019

Promoted to managing editor for The Chronicle April 2020

The Quinnipiac Chronicle

April 28, 2021

Send-offs|7

The way of the Wolff

BY JORDAN WOLFF

Former Associate Sports Editor

PHOTO BY MORGAN TENCZA/CHRONICLE

Jordan Wolff has covered multiple sports and said that baseball is his favorite to write about.

This is a bit of a different piece to write. Usually, I’d be sharing somebody else’s story. This time is different, as now I will share my story about how much my time at The Quinnipiac Chronicle has meant to me.

A lot of these senior send-offs talk about how The Chronicle helped them come out of their shell. Well, I can’t say that, because I’m someone who has never been afraid of voicing his opinions and thoughts.

When I toured Quinnipiac University in late 2016, I knew in my gut that this was the place to fulfill my wish of experiencing what the journalism industry is truly like. Now, I wouldn’t say to everyone to join something right away — it’s OK to be patient when settling into a completely new environment.

I went to the Student Media Summit my first week on campus and sat in a mock meeting with then-Editor-in-Chief David Friedlander. He was so funny, personable and lively, and it was a no-brainer to join this organization.

Five editors-in-chief and many, many articles later, this is the part I dread — saying goodbye. I’m saying farewell to a place that holds a special place in my heart. I’ve made so many new friends, experienced so many events such as the 2021 MAAC tournament and 2020 Connecticut Ice tournament and even a “never-in-a-million-years” pandemic.

So, just like the Tonight Show host Jimmy Fallon does, here comes my thank-you’s.

My first thank-you goes to former editor Logan Reardon who has now graduated. Logan decided to take me under his wing when I got to shadow him for my first-ever game recap — a field hockey game prior to the creation of the soccer field hockey complex. We had to sit on a rock right behind a chain-link fence.

Logan, thank you for being so open to me, kind to me and

really helping me enhance my journalistic talents.

My next thank-you goes to Justin Cait. Cait was my firstever sports editor of The Chronicle and had the patience of a saint. My writing back then pales in comparison to what you read now, and all of the credit goes to him for that.

Justin, thank you for being so willing to work with me and always laughing at my obscure references and jokes. It made me feel like a part of a cohesive unit.

My next set of thank-you’s go to Peter Dewey, Conor Roche and Brendan O’Sullivan. Peter was the opinion editor during my early years. So Pete, thank you for always being honest with me, leading by example and having great fashion sense.

Conor, you always knew how to go back-and-forth with my smart-aleck self, so thank you for influencing me as one of my first associate sports editors. You gave me honest advice about classes here and always had time to talk to me.

Lastly, Brendan was the editor-in-chief during The Chronicle’s toughest days. I give you so much credit for staying positive during this pandemic and steering this ship. Also, thank you for being one of my closest pals and just being such a chill and nice guy. The fact we bonded by telling me that you read my letter to the 3+1 freshmen still gives me goosebumps.

The Chronicle allowed me to be myself from day one. I had a lot of leeway on things I said, and people seemed to gravitate toward me, which meant a lot.

Also, a special thank you to the readers, because without you, I’m just a guy who writes things (still am). But, you give me the motivation to put out the best content I possibly can, so good on you for that.

That’s my swan song. It’s been a great four years, with countless memories made, countless friends made and countless stories shared. I will love The Chronicle for the influence it had on my life, and I have no doubt this new and young editorial board will influence others the same way.

Notable milestones with The Chronicle First sports article Field hockey vs. Northeastern Sept. 1, 2017

Appointed as associate sports editor for The Chronicle January 2018

Reported on the Connecticut Ice tournament Jan. 25, 2020

Covered his first Quinnipiac vs.

Yale Ice Hockey Game Feb. 29, 2020

Went to Atlantic City, New Jersey for the MAAC tournament March 8-13, 2021

So much more than a newspaper

BY MATT NYGAARD Former Staff Writer

It felt like just yesterday when I walked into my first meeting with The Chronicle.

I was incredibly intimidated by all the older students who knew so much more than me, so I didn’t even go to a meeting during my first year in school. I finally mustered up the courage to go try it out as a sophomore, since I felt more adjusted to Quinnipiac University and had my feet under me. I finally felt like I was ready to pursue extracurriculars because as a naturally anxious person who has become pretty good at not showing it, putting myself out there was a lot harder than anyone ever knew.

For some reason, the idea of having someone look at my writing and critique it made me insecure since I felt like I was going to be an extremely poor writer compared to the others in the group. Regardless of what reluctance I had before going, it all quickly disappeared when I met everyone and got to know the group. I am the type of person who thrives when they are as comfortable as possible, and that is what The Chronicle did for me. Right when I got there, I felt like I was part of it — getting sports editors Brendan O’Sullivan and Jared Penna’s contact information to start covering games that upcoming weekend.

The Chronicle gave me a forum to practice my writing and hone in on my skills, but it gave me so much socially as well. I now have lifelong friends who I wouldn’t have met without it and memories that I will cherish forever. No matter

“I went from being uncomfortable to being a part of the group in a matter of a few days, and that is a testament to what this newspaper is more than anything else to me”

– MATT NYGAARD

FORMER STAFF WRITER

how bad of a day I had, I could always rely on The Chronicle to be there to make me feel better. Whether it was a meeting after a long Tuesday or a game after a long week, this paper always gave me something to look forward to. It is rare that an organization can check off all of those boxes, but that is exactly what The Chronicle did for me.

It sounds cliché, but it is hard to believe that I am already writing this after going to that meeting as a sophomore and finally trying it out. I went from being uncomfortable to being a part of the group in a matter of a few days, and that is a testament to what this newspaper has done for me.

If something is able to help develop skills then it is already worth your time.

But, something that can do that and also provide a positive social experience is something to be cherished forever.

PHOTO BY MORGAN TENCZA/CHRONICLE

Matt Nygaard said his feature on men’s ice hockey forward Skyler Brind’Amour was his favorite article that he wrote.

Notable milestones with The Chronicle Reported on the Battling with Brandon fundraiser March 5, 2019

Covered men’s ice hockey home opener vs. Brock University Oct. 6, 2019

Wrote feature on men’s ice hockey forward Skyler Brind’Amour October 2019

Assigned as women’s ice hockey beat reporter for The Chronicle December 2020

Story on men’s basketball head coach Baker Dunleavy published Dec. 19, 2020

The Quinnipiac Chronicle

8|Arts and Life

Arts & Life

April 28, 2021

QUCHRONICLE.COM/ARTS-AND-LIFE ARTSLIFE@QUCHRONICLE.COM

Lights, Camera, Women in Action

By NEHA SEENARINE

Associate Arts & Life Editor

Women can do anything a man can do — but better. If they had more opportunities in the film industry, maybe we would respect sequels.

The Quinnipiac Women in Film Coalition (QWFC) is a new organization on campus supporting women involved in the film industry.

Zoey Metzner, a junior film, television and media major and president of QWFC, started the organization based on a random thought in quarantine. She thinks women are in a battle with the entertainment industry, looking for equality whether it is pay, recognition or being treated like a human being.

“Why don’t we have a group with female filmmakers with everything going on in Hollywood?” Metzner said. “I can take it upon myself to put a group of women together. I grew (the club) from film majors to having other communication majors. Males also started to join. It is important for guys to help us in the organization.”

The QWFC’s mission is to produce a safe space for aspiring women filmmakers at Quinnipiac. Talya Castonguay, a junior film, television and media and media studies double major, and vice president of QWFC, explained how they want members to connect and share support for their careers.

“We want to create a place that is comfortable,” Castonguay said. “Members can feel like they can talk to us with ideas. We’re open to all ideas and anything people have to say brings to us is valued. At the end of the day, we are men and women trying to make it in this challenging industry. We want everyone to make sure their voice can be heard here.”

In a remote environment, it can be hard for students to reach out to others and share their ideas. QWFC wants to reverse that.

“This is a safe environment for discussion,” Metzner said.

“You can have a classmate in this club and they will feel more comfortable talking to each if they need help. It’s getting ladies to talk to each other. It is hard with Zoom with everyone being shy. We’re trying to crack people out of their shells.”

The QWFC values networking. The media industry is a tough market especially with graduating students fighting for the same job.

“Just based off these two months starting this club, we have about 20 women at Quinnipiac with big dreams and aspirations,” Castonguay said. “There are a lot of Quinnipiac students and across the country that have big dreams. It is beneficial to work together instead of seeing each other as competition.”

Members of QWFC have different passions in the film industry whether it being editing, filming or post-production.

The people in the organization make an effort to get to know each other. It is encouraged that members connect with each other on social media and support their projects.

“A two-minute project is making a name for yourself,” Metzner said. “You’re putting yourself out there. We want people to lean on each other after graduation. I believe in

INFOGRAPHIC BY ASHLEY PELLETIER

Women are underrepresented in the production of films in the United States. people being able to help each other.” woman in Hollywood,” actress Naomi McDougall Jones The film industry is dominated by males. Females are a explains the sexism issues prominent in film. minority for production jobs.

“For the most part, it happens casually – unconsciously, Martha Lauzen, executive director of the Center for the even,” Jones said. “It happens because people are just trying Study of Women in Television and Film, said women only to get along within an existing system. It happens, maybe, out accounted for 34% of all directors, writers, producers, of a genuine desire to teach a young woman the way that the executive producers, editors and cinematographers working world ‘just is.’ The problem is that unless we do something on films. In 2020, women directors made up just 16%of the about it, that is the way the world will always be.” top 100 grossing films.

Women are so much more than catering to men and The QWFC emphasizes that being a woman does not being hot. The film industry needs to improve on being more restrain work ethic. inclusive to women and skewing away from normative sexism “Women are just as good as their male peers,” Metzner practices within the industry. said. “Just because you don’t have a penis doesn’t mean you “I want to see more women,” Castonguay said. “You know don’t deserve recognition. We need to stop doing what other the industry is messed up with the rules of the Oscars being people want us to do.” changed to have more women included. What does that say Aside from networking, QWFC shares videos on about the industry? If a giant ceremony has to make regulations empowering women filmmakers. In “What it’s like to be a to make films that aren’t about the straight male perspective.”

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY ZOEY METZNER

President Zoey Metzner got the idea to found the Quinnipiac Women in Film Coalition (QWFC) as a place for women to work towards their dreams.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY TALYA CASTONGUAY

Vice President Talya Castonguay hopes that clubs like the Quinnipiac Women in Film Society (QWFC) will lead to gender equality in the film industry.

April 28, 2021

The Quinnipiac Chronicle

Arts and Life|9

Book of the Week

“An American Marriage” is a look into a relationship colliding with the effects of mass incarceration

By JILLIAN GALLAGHER Contributing Writer

A poignant view on society, the novel “An American Marriage” by Tayari Jones touches upon a handful of extensive problems that current Americans are facing every day, especially Black Americans. Beautifully written, Jones illustrates love in a painful yet provoking way, leaving readers with a new perspective on racism in America.

“An American Marriage” tells the story of a young couple, Celestial Davenport and Roy Hamilton, living in Atlanta in 2019.

The story takes off one year into the young couple’s marriage where readers are brought along on their charming love story.

Suddenly, on the couple’s one-year anniversary, Hamilton is charged for a crime he never committed and becomes an innocent, incarcerated Black man.

Told through love letters, the first half of the book is emotional and arduous at times. What makes this story so important is that readers get to witness both Hamilton’s life while he is in jail and his wife’s life while she is at home.

The book bounces between the first-person perspectives of Davenport, Hamiltonand Davenport’s best friend Andre Tucker throughout the years of Hamilton’s incarceration. Managing life without Hamilton while keeping his heartbroken parents company, Davenport struggles to discover herself again.

While trying to keep her marriage alive, she begins to rely on Tucker more. Friends since youth, Tucker and Davenport have been through it all together; Tucker was the one that introduced Davenport to Hamilton. Although Tucker has loved Davenport since they were young, he always supported her marriage. But now that Hamilton has been in jail for two years, the two friends start to grow closer — too close for Hamilton’s liking.

While Davenport is dealing with her own problems, Hamilton is forced to adapt to prison life just to survive. Hamilton’s story is one that is bigger than himself. Jones successfully educates readers on what life is like for Black men in America through the perspective of Hamilton, an ordinary man wrongfully convicted.

Not only does he struggle to hold his marriage together, but he deals with extensive family problems beyond Davenport, all while trying to survive in prison — a place he never should have ended up in the first place.

Jones captivates readers through the unique perspectives of Hamilton and Davenport, along with highlighting the consequences of injustice in present-day America in a way that I will be thinking about for a long time.

As an avid reader, I was glued to “An American Marriage” like I have been to no other book. Hamilton and Davenport’s story is told in such a way that you feel like part of the story, with a deep connection to the characters. I developed an extreme sense of heartbreak and sympathy for the two along the way. My heart ached for Hamilton as prison became a part of him and how he needed to adapt in order to survive. How can a person’s entire life be taken away from them so quickly, and for no true reason?

Through Davenport, I got to see how mass incarceration not only affects those incarcerated, but their families as well. Hamilton and Davenport are both such intricate characters in their own way, but their personalities intertwine, creating such a unique relationship — one that readers get to witness firsthand.

Starting off with terrible twists and unforeseen turns, you will not want to put this book down. From page one all the way through the short epilogue, the unexpected is always around the corner. “An American Marriage” should be on your bookshelf.

JILLIAN GALLAGHER/CHRONICLE

'An American Marriage' chronicles the story of a couple's relationship as one of them is wrongfully incarcerated.

'Do better please' Demi Lovato kickstarts an online debate about frozen yogurt and eating disorders

By DAVID MATOS

Associate Arts & Life Editor

Singer Demi Lovato is “sorry not sorry” for speaking up about a Los Angeles frozen yogurt shop.

The Bigg Chill has an abundance of sugar-free and dietary items that provoked the singer. Lovato has been candid with her past addictions and history with eating disorders such as bulimia and anorexia.

Frozen yogurt is particularly personal to her — it’s often advertised as having reduced calories and being beneficial for dietary purposes, contributing to her harmful eating practices. The dispute began when Lovato exposed the frozen yogurt shop on her Instagram story.

“Finding it extremely hard to order froyo from @ thebiggchillofficial when you have to walk past tons of sugar free cookies/other diet foods before you get to the counter,” Lovato wrote. “Do better please.”

Her rant didn’t end there. Lovato made a second story defending her creation of the hashtag, “Diet Culture Vultures.”

“So I think I’m gonna have to make that hashtag a thing,” the ex-Disney star wrote. “I will be calling harmful messaging from brands or companies that perpetuate a society that not only enables but praises disordered eating.”

Lovato posted direct messages on her story between her and The Bigg Chill. The shop defended its products and expressed how the star’s assumption that they are “diet vultures” simply isn’t true. She then accused the small business of “making excuses,” and that it does not provide an alluring experience for people with different needs such as those with diabetes, vegan diets or eating disorders.

The singer proceeded to make suggestions to the brand on how it can be more inclusive with their products. Lovato proposed that it should label their products more transparently as the messaging can be misleading. Clearer labeling on food products can help customers easily differentiate between what products meet their specific needs.

Lovato received a slew of negative responses following her public debacle. Most believed that she should have exposed the culture of diet vultures without targeting a specific local business to her millions of followers. Some believed she was being self-

centered and a bully. Many people on Twitter proceeded to make fun of the situation by posting harmful remarks in the spirit of dark humor to an already vulnerable Lovato.

The Bigg Chill posted a photo to their Instagram account that has since been deleted. The post showcased a display of baked goods with the branding “Eat Me Guilt Free,” which the singer used to her benefit. Lovato once again took to her Instagram story to further defend her stance as well as to express how she felt about all of the negative feedback she received.

“This screams diet culture and I won’t be gaslit by the media or anyone else that says otherwise,” Lovato wrote on her Instagram story adjacent to the controversial photo. “I don’t need to feel guilt free about eating anything. This was what I was talking about this is directly from their own page. @thebiggchillofficial.”

Lovato posted an eight-minute video of her apologizing for how she initially responded to her experience at the frozen yogurt shop on her Instagram. She still believes in her viewpoint against the harmful branding of sugar-free and diet products that led her to call out The Bigg Chill. However, she acknowledges that she should’ve handled the whole situation differently. Lovato also gave a brief history of her personal relationship with addiction and eating disorders.

"Overcoming my addictions, my drug addictions, was because I can walk away from that and never touch it again for the rest of my life," Lovato said. "But I have to eat three times a day.

This is something that will be with me for the rest of my life. I left that yogurt store and didn't get the yogurt that I wanted,” she continued. “And then I had a hard time the rest of the weekend, to be totally transparent and that's probably something that nobody wants me to say, but I'm human and I talk about my struggles and I'm passionate. So, I'm sorry that I got the messaging wrong. I’m sorry that I may have disappointed some people."

Despite all the backlash, the star earned some support from fans.

“People trying to cancel demi lovato for lashing out at a trigger to her illness even after she apologized for her approach is the reason why cancel culture is a whole joke, y'all should be worrying about actual discriminatory problematic celebs, it's embarrassing,” @theartofdems, a Demi Lovato fan account, wrote on Twitter.

Eating disorders are a serious issue that should be taken

SCREENSHOT FROM INSTAGRAM

Demi Lovato found offense in The Bigg Chill's 'guilt free' marketing.

seriously. If you or a friend struggle with an eating disorder and are seeking help you can contact the National Eating Disorder Association’s (NEDA) helpline. They are available weekdays to chat, text or call. For crisis situations, you can text “NEDA” to 741741 to get into contact with a Crisis Text Line volunteer. chat, text or call. For crisis situations, you can text “NEDA” to 741741 to get into contact with a Crisis Text Line volunteer.

The Quinnipiac Chronicle

10|Sports

April 28, 2021

2020-21 Chronicle Sports Awards

UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE, PHOTOS BY MORGAN TENCZA/CHRONICLE

After all of 2020-21’s beginnings, endings and COVID-19-related pauses, Sports Editor Riley Millette and Associate Sports Editor Peter Piekarski each picked one men’s and women’s athlete/coach who deserve recognition for their success.

Most Valuable Player

MORGAN TENCZA/CHRONICLE

RILEY: MACKENZIE DEWEES

RILEY: KEITH PETRUZZELLI

Junior guard DeWees was named MAAC Player of the Year for the 2020-21 season.

DeWees averaged 12.5 points per game (PPG), 7.6 rebounds per game (RPG) and led the MAAC in field goal percentage by a landslide. She ended the year shooting 48.4% from the floor, a comfortable lead over Siena’s Rayshel Brown, who shot 43.3%.

Senior goaltender Petruzzelli might as well have been an actual brick wall this year for the men’s ice hockey team. He allowed a total of 54 goals through 29 games, giving him a goals against average of 1.89. That ranked seventh throughout all of Division I. It’ll be tough for the Bobcats to find a goaltender as effective as Petruzzelli after his departure this offseason.

PETER: MEGAN SZAWLOWSKI

PETER: ODEEN TUFTO

The graduate forward lit up the score sheet this season, finding twine for 33 goals accompanied by 14 dimes for 47 points. Szawlowski’s 33 goals led the Bobcats and her 14 assists were good for second-most on the team.

Tufto produced career highs in assists with 39 — which ranked first in Division I — and points with 47 — which ranked second in Division I — in just 29 games. He was also recognized as a top-10 finalist for the Hobey Baker award for the best player in college hockey.

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

WOMEN’S LACROSSE

MEN’S ICE HOCKEY

MEN’S ICE HOCKEY

Coach of the Year

RILEY: TRICIA FABBRI

RILEY: ERIC DA COSTA

Stop me if you’ve heard this before, but women’s basketball head coach Fabbri is really good at her job. The perennially-successful women’s basketball squad had an off-year in the 2019-20 season, only going 15-14 in the regular season before the tournament was called off due to the pandemic. But Fabbri righted the ship this year, leading the team to a 13-8 record and a No. 2 seed in the MAAC tournament.

With her 26th season as the head coach in the books, Fabbri is still producing top-tier squads and leading a culture of success that doesn’t appear to be fading anytime soon.

Men’s soccer coach Da Costa fell just short of the MAAC championship title yet again this year, falling to Monmouth 1-0. In his 16th year with the program, Da Costa locked down the regular season championship, boasting the No. 1 next to Quinnipiac’s name on the tournament bracket. After losing star forward Eamon Whelan last season, Da Costa was faced with the immense challenge of training new recruits, whether it be freshman like Allen or transfers like sophomore midfielder David Bercedo, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Credit goes where credit is due to one of the university’s most talented and dedicated coaches.

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

MEN’S SOCCER

PETER: CASS TURNER PETER: RAND PECKNOLD

COURTESY OF QU ATHLETICS

WOMEN’S ICE HOCKEY

MEN’S ICE HOCKEY

Despite having seven games canceled or postponed, Turner managed her team to a winning record, including nearly defeating No. 6 Colgate in the ECAC Hockey semifinals. Turner’s team collectively outshot and outscored their opponents by a wide margin, scoring 62 goals on 663 shots and only allowing 30 goals on 361 shots. The Bobcats offense shined significantly in six of their games this season, firing 50-plus shots and scoring at least five goals in each of them.

During a season that was entirely in question to even begin, Pecknold managed his team to be one of the best in the country, finish first in the ECAC Hockey and make it to the regional round of the NCAA playoffs. His team finished fifth in Division I in penalty killing at 88.8%, and sixth on the power play at 24.4%. Pecknold’s Bobcat defense was locked down all season long, ranking fifth in goals against per game with 2.03 and five shutouts.

The Quinnipiac Chronicle

April 28, 2021

Sports|11

Rookie of the Year

RILEY: REBECCA COOKE

RILEY: LUKE ALLEN

The freshman forward and MAAC Rookie of the Year took complete control of the attacking front for Quinnipiac, scoring four goals in seven games this year. No other Bobcat scored more than once. Cooke cranked out a whopping 26 shots, almost double what any other player on the team managed to attempt.

The Bobcats ranked second in the MAAC in goals allowed per game with 1.0, second only to the Rider Broncs. There’s something to be said about Allen who came into the program in the middle of a pandemic. The freshman learned the system during a turbulent practice season in which the team was unable to be together at once and was one of the main anchors in a top-ranked defense.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY CHLOE KA’AHANUI

COURTESY OF QU ATHLETICS

WOMEN’S SOCCER

MEN’S SOCCER

PETER: CHLOE KA’AHANUI

PETER: TY SMILANIC

A pure setup specialist for the Bobcats’ volleyball team, Ka’ahanui led the team in assists with 175, and finished second with assists per set with 8.75. She also finished fifth in digs with 58 and fourth in digs per set with 2.9.

After becoming the highest Bobcat draft pick ever, going No. 74 overall in the third round to the Florida Panthers, Smilanic finished the season tied for the team lead in goals with 14, sitting atop the Division I leaderboard for freshman goals. Smilanic also finished ninth overall among Division I freshmen in points with 21.

VOLLEYBALL

MEN’S ICE HOCKEY

Most Improved Player

MORGAN TENCZA/CHRONICLE

RILEY: MIKALA MORRIS

RILEY: SETH PINKNEY

Morris was an All-MAAC Rookie team selection and was a prominent part of the Bobcats’ offense, averaging 9.7 PPG. But her growth into her second year was exponential. In addition to winning MAAC Defensive Player of the Year, Morris ranked fifth in the MAAC in PPG (13.7), seventh in field goal percentage (41.3%) and her 6-foot-2 stature helped her pull in a conference-leading 10.7 RPG.

Although he transferred to Florida International this offseason, Pinkney had the opportunity this year to average 23.2 minutes per game, and he came into his own. He averaged 8.0 PPG to go with 4.9 RPG, not to mention he was second in the MAAC with 51 total blocks, averaging 2.3 per game. And in case you forgot, he’s 7-foot-1 and nailed his only three-point attempt this year.

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

MEN’S BASKETBALL

MORGAN TENCZA/CHRONICLE

PETER: KAT HENSELDER

PETER: BRAGE AASEN

The sophomore goaltender has made tremendous strides to help her team compete in the MAAC. After struggling a bit as a freshman in three games, Henselder has been the starter for all 11 games this season. In those 11 starts, Henselder improved her save percentage from .273% to .448%, backed by strong showings against Canisius, Iona, Monmouth and Manhattan.

The sophomore forward ramped up his production by contributing five goals, four assists and 14 points, leading the team in each category. Aasen’s shots per game improved from 1.6 to 2.8 and his shots on goal increased from .8 to 1.1. He also netted an impressive three game-winning goals in just nine games.

WOMEN’S LACROSSE

MEN’S SOCCER

The Quinnipiac Chronicle

12|Sports

April 28, 2021

Sports @QUCHRONSPORTS

Salvageable season

CONNOR LAWLESS/CHRONICLE

Even though the Quinnipiac softball season started rough, it’s far from over

By MATT NYGAARD Staff Writer

It is no secret that this season has been difficult for the Quinnipiac softball team. After winning the first game of the season 7-5 at Rider, the Bobcats proceeded to lose 11 straight games, making the 2021 season an uphill battle. Despite the difficult start, the Bobcats have salvaged the season to some capacity and now sit at 7-21, going 6-10 since starting the season 1-11.

“We have really reverted to what our ‘why’ was,” said Brighid Douglas, a senior utility player. “We have started to focus on the smaller aspects in order to achieve the bigger goals that we are striving for. Obviously, the season is a marathon, and there are going to be some hills during the marathon that can be challenging. But, what’s been helpful for us is focusing on achieving small goals to work our way up to bigger goals.”

That thought process has worked to get the Bobcats back in the mix for the MAAC tournament. They still have a lot to achieve, but they have shown progress in their last 16 games. This year’s struggles for Quinnipiac aren’t a complete surprise either. It is a very young team and it has just two seniors: Douglas and infielder Kayla Jensen.

“Even though we’ve had struggles this year, I think everything happens for a reason,” Jensen said. “Even though we’ve had issues and we’re young, that doesn’t define our season. Coach (Smith) even went over a quote talking about how being underestimated can be your biggest competitive advantage. I don’t think a lot of people expect much from us so as an underdog, all we can do is find appreciation in the lack of expectations and just go out, compete and have fun.”

It comes as no surprise that a team with just two seniors and six freshmen had some struggles out of the gate, especially after COVID-19 halted last year’s action. During the Bobcats’ improved run, it has been all about focusing on the little things and letting that translate onto the field come game time.

The Bobcats won five out of eight games after the 11game losing streak, and since then have played competent softball and competed in most games. After such a learning curve with COVID-19 affecting so much before the season, the Bobcats seem as if they are finally getting comfortable and are figuring out who they are.

“Obviously adversity is never fun to go through,” Douglas said. “But, from challenge comes growth, and sometimes you have to deal with a little bit of bad to get some good like we have seen with our team. One of my favorite quotes is, ‘you can’t get the rainbow without the rain.’ So, I think as a team, we’ve gotten good at recognizing when someone is having an off day and picking them up as a cohesive unit instead of dwelling on it.”

Losing can bring internal changes, and that has certainly happened with the Bobcats. They couldn’t just keep doing the same repeatedly if it wasn’t working, so adjusting their

approach and focusing on the little things has certainly been a main component of why they have been able to salvage a difficult start to the season.

The Bobcats did drop all four games to a strong Canisius team (16-9) this weekend, but only one of them was decided by more than four runs. The Bobcats have eight games to go before the MAAC tournament begins, and while they may have lost out on their chance to be a top seed, the Bobcats are certainly not finished. Using the difficult first half of the season to change their mindset can fuel a strong second half of the year.

The Quinnipiac softball team is now 7-21 after going on an 11-game losing streak.

MORGAN TENCZA/CHRONICLE