PROFESSOR EHRLICH AIDS GENERATIONS OF STUDENTS WITH DONATION
Emma Tyler Asst. News Editor
Professor Gertrude
Ehrlich donated $9 million toward Pell Grant-eligible GCSU students who need housing assistance scholarships.
Ehrlich passed away earlier this year at 102-years-old and left this large sum from her Maryland estate which serves as the university’s largest gift in its history.
The endowed scholarship will impact students in the same way she did
when attending GCSU.
Ehrlich fled Nazi-occupied Austria in 1939 with her family and was supported by scholarship funding as one of the first international students to attend the college, previously known as Georgia State College for Women.
Upon graduation, she received a master’s degree at the University of North Carolina and a doctorate from the University of Tennessee before becoming a professor at the
University of Maryland.
Need-based support was essential for her education as she frequently spoke about how she would never have been able to pursue a college degree without it.
“Although the Hope Scholarship is an incredible asset to students, it is not a need-based program, and Georgia is one of only three states without a statewide needbased scholarship,” said Seth Walker, Vice President of University Ad-
Bobcat fall sports awards
vancements. “This fund allows us to provide access to students who otherwise may not be able to attend. Additionally, as a highly residential campus, we recognize that students who cannot afford to live on campus miss out on a significant part of the collegiate experience. Supporting housing for local Pell-eligible students ensures they can fully engage in academic and community life at GCSU.”
See EHRLICH | Page 2
OPINION
In recent memory,
Bryan Cade Asst Sports Editor
Georgia College & State University’s fall sports wrapped up their seasons, making way for the winter and spring sports on campus. However, it has been an extremely successful season for GCSU fall sports, and with success comes awards.
While men’s golf and men’s and women’s tennis did compete this fall, the awards will focus more towards men’s and women’s cross country, women’s volleyball and women’s soccer. However, don’t worry, fans of golf and tennis: I will be monitoring the teams’ performance throughout the spring
seasons, ready to dish out awards.
Before diving into the awards, this is my opinion and not officially connected with GCSU Athletics. Also, the true MVPs are the fans of GCSU Athletics and those who’ve followed the teams throughout the seasons.
Beginning with men’s cross country, Shipley Smith made the decision extremely easy for the MVP of the season. Smith has undoubtedly been mentioned quite a few times during the fall issues, and for good reason.
The sophomore from Kennesaw, Georgia, led the Bobcats in five of their six races during the season, giving a shoutout to Evan Rehrauer, who outran Smith by 7.4 sec-
onds at the UNG Cross Country Invitational early in the season to capture first place in the 8K competition. Smith also almost finished All-Conference in the Peach Belt Conference Championship.
Freshman of the Year for men’s cross country was a little more difficult, with a tough decision between two in particular, freshmen who had excellent “rookie” seasons: Karl Ritzler and Zach Hilyer. Ritzler surprised me out of the gate during the season, finishing second for the Bobcats, 16th overall, in the Converse Kick-Off race to open the season, and third for the Bobcats, ninth overall, at the UNG Invitational.
See AWARDS | Page 4
Holiday traditions
Kate Walker A&L Editor
As classes wind down and finals arrive with late nights in the library and last-minute presentations, students are also preparing for something far more cheerful; heading home for the holidays. For many students, Winter Break is not only a time to rest and reset for the spring semester, but also a chance to reunite with hometown friends, visit extended family and celebrate with the annual traditions that make the holiday season so special. Students said whether their celebrations were elaborate or more relaxed, the most cherished moments were simply being together with loved ones.
For Basia McBride, a senior psychology major, the transition from Thanksgiving to Christmas happens overnight. As soon as the clock strikes midnight, her family wastes no time getting into the Christmas spirit.
“My family always goes to cut down a Christmas tree at a Christmas tree farm near our house the day after Thanksgiving, and then that night we make hot chocolate, watch Christmas Vacation and decorate the tree,” McBride said. While different cultures and families celebrate a range of holidays during Winter Break, several students said Christmas traditions are by far the most common in their households. One of the world’s most widely celebrated holidays, in the United States it has become both a cultural and religious event, blending festive customs with meaningful acts of faith.
For Kylie Rhodes, a senior art major, the holiday bridges both festivities and faith in a way she will always treasure.
“We usually do simple family traditions like going to see Christmas lights and attending a few church events,” Rhodes said. See TRADTIONS | Page 6
Bryan Cade | Asst. Sports Editor
EHRLICH
Continued from page 1
Ehrlich often spoke about the welcoming community she found at the university, and her fellow students could not have known their kindness would later propel the largest planned gift in GCSU history.
“Current students can see in her story the profound impact of generosity, resilience and gratitude,” Walker said.
“They can also see themselves in her, recognizing that the support they receive today may shape how they choose to give back in the future.”
This gift will begin rewarding students in Fall 2026 as the university finalizes scholarship criteria, establishes a clear application and selection process, collaborates with house and financial aid teams and ensures appropriate donor recognition.
GCSU is intentional in expanding how they educate and engage donors around legacy
gifts considering they typically account for a significant portion of annual fundraising.
Senior Director of Planned, Estate and Principle Giving Kelly Pope was hired in 2024 to work with donors daily and help them align their personal goals for opportunities to include GCSU in their estate plans. They also rebranded their legacy recognition program as the Legacy Circle to better reflect the importance of these future commitments.
Alumni and donors are responding to this renewed focus on sharing the direct
impact of philanthropy. Because of GCSU’s intentionality in communicating how scholarships impact students and their fostering of stronger relationships with donors, there is a surge in donations compared to ever before.
“I hope her legacy communicates that one person can profoundly impact the lives of many,” Walker said. “Professor Ehrlich never forgot the scholarship support that made her education possible, and she chose to honor that gift by paying it forward in an extraordinary way. Many of our students today benefit from the
generosity of donors they will never meet. When they are in a position to give back to their alma mater, we hope they will remember the example set by
VOLUME 106 | NO. 11
Editorial Board
Mary Ciucevich..............
Rylee Holland..................
Julia Jensen......................
Amelia McEwen............
Editor in Chief
Managing Editor
Art Director
News Editor
Emma Tyler.......................
Asst. News Editor
Benjamin Clark...............
Sports Editor
Bryan Cade.......................
Kate Walker...............
Sydney Williams.............
Isabella McComis..........
Reaghan Shehee............
Reagan Robinson..........
Haley Quimby..................
Mikkel Christensen.......
Asst. Sports Editor
Arts & Life Editor
Asst. Arts & Life Editor
Digital Media Editor
Digital Media Editor
PR Manager
Ad Sales Manager
Faculty Adviser
Professor Ehrlich and continue the cycle of generosity that strengthens our university.”
GCSU will recognize Ehrlich scholars as they progress through their education and again as they graduate. Ehrlich will continue to be recognized and honored through donor recognition opportunities, ongoing stewardship and stories of students whose lives were impacted by her kindness in this historical gift.
@TheColonnade @TheColonnade
Contributing writers are always welcome at The Colonnade. Contact thegcsucolonnade@gmail. com for more information.
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Courtesy of Georgia College & State University
Courtesy of Georgia College & State University
USG schools experience surge in enrollment
Jane Carr Staff Writer
Institutions across the University System of Georgia note that more applicants are committing to enroll, reflecting a statewide shift in student interest.
The USG reported its third consecutive year of increased enrollment, with undergraduate numbers rising by 4.1% and graduate and professional programs increasing by 7.2%. Several institutions around Georgia that have seen an increase include Kennesaw State University, Georgia Institute of Technology, University of West Georgia and GCSU.
Administrators at GCSU describe these major gains as an unprecedented interest from prospective students.
According to GCSU’s official website, “A years-long period of unprecedented growth at Georgia College and State University continued this fall, as the university received its highest number of first-year student applications ever recorded during its fall early action period, with over 5,000. That figure marks a 16% increase over last year’s number of applications received, and an 83% increase over the number recorded in 2022.”
The growth is visible on campus and has become more
apparent to upperclassmen who have watched enrollment climb each year. Some say the rising numbers bring challenges, including concerns about parking, housing and class availability, though others note that the overall campus experience has not shifted dramatically.
“I think a lot of upperclassmen are upset about the rising enrollment because of limited parking space and limited housing, but overall, I don’t think it’s too big of an issue,” said Cassidy Wilson, a sophomore English major.
Wilson said she believes the university’s sustained recruitment efforts are contributing to the steady growth in first-year classes.
“I think what’s driving this increase is the work that the university has done in outreach to incoming freshmen,” Wilson said. “I think there’s a lot of stress over registration, and this definitely isn’t helped by the bigger and bigger class sizes.”
Other students say the increase is beginning to strain daily campus operations. One individual said the rapid influx is affecting several services students rely on.
“I feel as though this increase may negatively impact the institution,” said Autumn Taylor, a junior music educa-
tion major. “The increase in students seems to overcrowd the population on campus, lowering the quality of food and the efficiency of the bus routes. While this brings new additions to the environment on campus, this is overall lessening the ability for students to function as they did before the influx of students.”
Taylor feels as though this increase ultimately impacts students and their experience at GCSU. She also described what she sees as factors contributing to GCSU’s rising popularity.
“I think this school’s popularity stems from the high acceptance rate, its social events, and nightlife,” Taylor said. “I would think if the acceptance rate decreased, there would be fewer students applying, leading to funneling more students to smaller schools.”
University officials have cited strong statewide interest in public institutions, increased outreach and the draw of campus life as contributors to the system’s overall rise in enrollment. The trend aligns with Georgia’s growing population and the increasing number of high school graduates pursuing four-year degrees.
The continued expansion brings questions about longterm planning. Services such as advising, transportation and dining must adapt to support
larger student populations. Housing availability remains a pressing concern for many students. Some departments have also noted the need for additional faculty positions to keep class sizes stable.
Across the state, USG has said it is working with campuses in Georgia to prepare for expected future growth. Officials have pointed to ongoing efforts to strengthen student support resources, expand facilities and maintain academic standards as enrollment climbs.
As enrollment continues to climb, students are starting to feel the numbers in a few familiar places. Study rooms in the library fill up earlier in the day, and some students believe it’s harder to find open time in shared spaces like science labs or rehearsal rooms. These shifts have sparked ongoing conversations about how to
make better use of the space the university already has, so students don’t lose access to the resources they rely on. Regardless, many students say the sense of community on campus is still one of the school’s biggest draws. Campus tours, weekend events and student-run activities are constantly expanding, and university ambassadors say they are seeing steady interest from visiting high school groups. This uptick in foot traffic from prospective students is a sign of GCSU’s rising visibility.
As numbers rise, institutions like GCSU face increasing pressure to support larger student bodies while preserving the quality of academic and campus life. For now, students and administrators continue to navigate the realities of a campus in high demand.
Cyberattacks reach unknowing college students
Cyberwarfare is the United States’ number one national security threat and GCSU students reflect on the real effects it has had on their experience with the media.
“I think outside influence on our country’s news is a big problem and it is not talked about enough,” said Sebastian Galla, a junior economics major. “We’re also not taught very well how to avoid it.”
Russia and China are two countries that pose an imminent threat to the U.S., as they have developed cyber capabilities that have disrupted U.S. operations. According to the
U.S. Department of Justice, Russia has been known to launch disinformation campaigns on the U.S. media to amplify political divisions.
The Department of Justice warns that the media consumed by American citizens may be altered by Russian influence. In particular, the social media applications that are the most impacted include, but are not limited to, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram and X.
“I used to use TikTok as a news source before I knew about how untrustworthy it could be,” said Sarah Waldron, a junior sociology major. “Even though I don’t use social media for that purpose
anymore, I’m still surprised how affected our media is by other countries. It makes me wonder how much disinformation I believed was true.”
The accessibility of news through social media makes it easy for unsuspecting individuals to succumb to fake news. According to an article from the British Broadcasting Company, more than 54% of people rely on social media for their news intake. This is more than the 48% of people who rely on news sites.
The Russian government is aware of the large demographic of U.S. citizens who consume social media content. The U.S. Department of Justice highlights the Russian government’s ability to impact U.S. media because it uses companies under its control as a tool. These companies create websites tailored to Americans so they consume Russian propaganda.
Fake names, fake profiles and cybersquatting, a way of selling and profiting from somebody’s name, take place through social media to promote false narratives. One of the most notable instances was during the
2024 presidential election.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice Archives, “Those narratives targeted specific American demographics and regions in a calculated effort to subvert our election. Our republic depends on elections that are free from foreign interference, and we will not rest in our efforts to expose foreign malign influence operations and protect our democracy, without fear or favor.”
Russia has even been found to pump out waves of fabricated news stories during major U.S. events. This makes it more difficult for students to recognize if what they are viewing is credible.
“During the election last year, I kept seeing videos on social media about the candidates that didn’t really seem that true,” Waldron said. “I’m still glad I voted for who I voted for, but some people may have been swayed one way or the other by untrue stories on social media. That really puts this into perspective.”
The U.S. has long debated how to combat this threat, with the most recent action being to prevent threats before they can reach their target. This, accord-
ing to the U.S. Department of State, is possible through diplomacy and deterrence.
For GCSU students, it is still necessary to be aware of the effects and preventative measures regarding Russian government incentives. Instead of indulging in news from social media, it is recommended by the National Education Association that students get their information from trustworthy sources, or at least be able to recognize what is reliable.
“To avoid fake news, I factcheck statements especially for political news by relying on proven and trusted sources like The New York Times or Associated Press,” Galla said.
GCSU provides students with subscriptions and access to various news sites through the library’s online resources and databases. GALILEO is also an extension of the GCSU library that provides a wide range of news resources.
Students at GCSU have an automatic free subscription to The New York Times. For digital access, navigate to the website, accessnyt.com, choose “Georgia College and State University” and sign up using your GCSU email address.
Amelia McEwen News Editor
Julia Jensen | Arts Director
Julia Jensen | Art Director
AWARDS
Continued from page 1
However, Hilyer stuck with him throughout the beginning of the season, and deserves the honors of Freshman of the Year, especially after his 19th-place effort at the Peach Belt Conference Championship and setting a personal best time at Regionals to conclude the year.
Switching to women’s cross country, due to injuries occurring towards the end of the season, deciding on the most valuable player was more difficult than expected; nevertheless, because of her performance before injury, it’s difficult to ignore that Lauren Thisdale is this team’s MVP.
The sophomore from Snellville, Georgia, led the women’s cross country in the first three rac-
Bobcats in the blue race at McAlpine Creek Park.
Ironically, the case is similar for Russell, a freshman on the men’s cross country team. She performed neck-andneck with the MVP, Thisdale, in the early going, following just behind her in the first two races of the year and being the top freshman runner for the Bobcats in the third race.
However, while Russell performed well in the early going, I present the Freshman of the Year award for women’s cross country to Shanklin. While she began the season late, she quickly improved her performances with the Bobcats. She later took home honors, finishing first for the Bobcats in the Peach Belt Conference Championship and second in the Regional competition
to keep Mason off the first-team All-PBC team.
“I think it’s a pretty pragmatic decision,” said Hampton Pelton, voice of GCSU women’s soccer. “I think another aspect for Sarah Mason to call out is just how high her work capacity was. Not only the ability, but also that she employed it on a daily basis. When I would commentate, I would watch her do an 80-yard spring, going upfield over and over again, so I’m right there with you on Sarah Mason.”
Kaisa Fagerström made my decision for Freshman of the Year a cake walk, seeing that she actually won PBC Freshman of the Year anyway.
She’s the first-ever Bobcat to win such an award, was third on the Bobcats in goals and points, and helped
team with three shutouts. Yet, Ella Hayes’ streak of three consecutive shutouts and PBC Goalkeeper of the Week honors in early October make
I’m split on the decision, and I don’t think there’s a wrong answer here
-Hampton Pelton
the decision difficult. However, I’m going to give Goalkeeper of the Year to Fortin. While Hayes performed well enough even to bring home PBC Goalkeeper of the Week honors, Fortin’s consistency throughout the season decided for me. Nevertheless, while Fortin earned my honors this season, with both athletes being sophomores and both play-
give her credit for it, as Carlton played in only 85 sets; she still placed third on the team in kills. Nevertheless, King needed someone to step up, and the answer was Kaylee Weeks.
Weeks, a sophomore from Warsaw, Indiana, came out of nowhere, collecting an impeccable 269 kills and 301.0 points for the Bobcats to lead the team in her first year on the court. On the opposite side, Weeks accumulated 200 digs to match, earning her a deserving MVP award.
“Kaylee Weeks came into this program and made an immediate impact,” said Michelle Aquino, voice of GCSU women’s volleyball. “She not only dominated in the front row, but also made an impact as a six rotation outside. Any-
the first one to throw her body on the ground to make the dig and make the defensive play. She also carries the energy and is a leader and a captain in the back row.”
Finally, if Fagerström’s earlier Freshman of the Year honors weren’t easy enough, then I present Avery Huyck. Huyck’s 231 kills sit just below Weeks’ 269, as do her points; however, she also filled the stat sheets, sitting fifth for the Bobcats in digs and collecting 27 blocks on the season. Huyck’s hard-hitting helped expand the Bobcat offense and shows a promising future for the women’s volleyball team.
“Avery Huyck has been one of my favorite players to watch this year,” Aquino said. “As a freshman, she came into this program and made
es of the season, helping the Bobcats complete the sweep at the UNG Invitational to take home first place in the women’s run as well. Throughout her first three races, she placed 16th, third, and fourth overall.
Thisdale was unable to compete in both the Bobcats Peach Belt Conference and Regionals races; yet, for her performances in the early going, I believe she earned the MVP award for women’s cross country.
The freshman once again made it difficult to decide for the women’s cross country team, with the problematic choice between Bella Russell and Emma Shanklin, and an honorable mention to Lily Flood, who set a personal best and led the
(16th and 43rd overall).
GCSU women’s soccer made my decisions relatively easy this year, with players who performed at an extreme level. Sarah Mason, without a doubt in my mind, won this year’s women’s soccer MVP.
The senior from Atlanta, Georgia, led the team in goals, assists, shots, shots on goal and points. Her impressive season was not only outstanding on paper; her leadership, tied with Adriana Duque in games started, helped the Bobcats maintain their streak of consecutive playoff host teams. While this article is opinion-focused, I don’t want to say anything against the PBC committee; however, it must have been a difficult decision for them
the Bobcats collect seven shutouts during the season. Also, third place in goals is one thing, but third place in goals as a defender is another. Fagerström is undoubtedly the Freshman of the Year.
“You know, I don’t know off top how old she is, but she’s a freshman, maybe 19, yet she’s playing like she’s 22 years old, with her field awareness and pass accuracy,” Pelton said. “Freshman of the Year is very much warranted. I’m excited to see her continue her path forward.”
Goalkeeping must always be respected when discussing soccer, which makes this year’s most difficult award in GCSU athletics. Kassidy Fortin allowed only 0.78 goals per game, leading the
ers’ consistency, head coach Jack Marchant will be able to sleep easily with whoever is in goal.
“I’m split on the decision, and I don’t think there’s a wrong answer here,” Pelton said. “What sticks out for me with Fortin is that there were a lot of high-velocity shots that came her way from precarious positions, and she was able to deflect or retrieve all of them. The one or two goals I remember were typically when the striker was three feet in front of her or when it was a ricochet. I hate to use the word luck, but luck can be associated.”
Finally, women’s volleyball. Head coach Abigail King lost senior right side Camryn Carlton for a large chunk of the season, and I will
time she was in the front row, our setters knew that they could give her the ball on the outside and she would take care of it.”
Speaking of the defensive side of volleyball, I don’t think there is anyone more deserving of Defensive Player of the Year than Alanis Bernis. Not only did she collect 574 digs, set the most digs in a four-set match in program history with 38, but she also took home the record for most digs in a career for Georgia College & State University. Anyone arguing Defensive Player of the Year for Alanis Bernis is arguing with a brick wall.
“It’s a no-brainer for Alanis to be defensive player of the year,” Aquino said. “She is a dominant force in the back row for the Bobcats, always
a huge difference on the outside. I love the way she always played with so much confidence and was really aggressive with her swings. She always played to win, bringing a really refreshing, positive energy to the court as a true freshman.”
Once again, these are my personal opinions for the Bobcat MVP and Freshman of the Year awards, as well as the other couple of awards sprinkled in. The Bobcats’ fall sports had successful seasons overall, yet these decisions were still challenging. With spring sports coming up, I’m excited to see the performance of all the players, and I’m looking forward to making my award decisions as the year continues. As always, go Bobcats.
Courtesy of Alexus Duncan
The impact of the college football transfer portal
Benjamin Clark Sports Editor
Since the introduction of the transfer portal in 2018, it has entirely reshaped College Football, but debates remain on whether this change was for the better or for the worse.
Advocates for the portal argue that it gives players more freedom when considering their choice of school and future career. Meanwhile, those who disagree with the portal’s presence mainly argue that top programs often offer more benefits to players, therefore being able to customize their rosters with the most consistently performing players.
The most immediate and undeniable impact is the increased freedom for players, as athletes can now have unprecedented control over their careers. Those who are dissatisfied with coaching, playing time, personal drama with other players or other issues can now simply enter the transfer portal, receiving an offer from another school, thereby neglecting the previously restrictive process that players would have to endure when transferring schools.
“It definitely gives more freedom to the players,” said Jackson Jordan, a freshman finance major. “But I think they will follow the money most of the time and go for a team that offers a huge scholarship and a sports car.
For the schools, I think it creates instability.”
It follows that many fans agree with the impact that the transfer portal has had on players’ freedom to choose the program and school that’s right for them, as before the loosening of transfer regulations, players were forced to sit out for a whole year, creating massive delays in their careers.
With the new transfer portal, players now routinely move between programs searching for expanded roles, better development opportunities and increased exposure to the game. For many athletes, the ability to change programs without losing eligibility or status as a player has made player retention more viable, creating a better environment overall for college athletes.
“I would agree that it gives the players more freedom,” said Tyler Butler, a sophomore economics major. “They can just transfer if they don’t like their deal with a certain school, and there’s not much holding them back from doing so. Especially with some schools now paying players, like Tennessee, I think a lot of players are going to take that into account when they weigh the deal they got with their current school.”
From a competitive standpoint, the transfer portal has significantly affected how teams are built throughout the season, with pro-
grams now being able to rely on the portal for any gaps in their roster.
For top-tier programs with a solid foundation of funding, the transfer portal offers a quick way to upgrade key positions. Experienced transfers allow these schools to patch
making smaller schools act as filter programs into large, state schools.
One common gripe is in the supposed “purity” of a school program, as it relates to the population of players from the state. Many in college sports speak out against
any weaknesses, introducing star talent at positions previously lacking.
For smaller schools, the portal has mixed results. While it does allow schools to add talent that might not have been available through high school recruiting, it also makes it easier for larger programs to recruit the best perform-
the transfer portal, simply because it creates teams with players from all across the nation, not only from the state that the school represents.
Fans consider whether the transfer portal made schools’ teams less “Georgian” or less “Texan.”
“Not really,” said Jordan, “If a school really wanted a player in high
transfers for a better deal, it allows these schools with a lot of funding to make powerhouse teams.
While a minor grievance, it underscores the division seen in CFB fan communities, where many are divided on whether or not the transfer portal is healthy to the overall longevity of College Football.
Despite the early hopes that the transfer portal would influence the divide between elite and non-elite teams, the overall gap in these programs has largely remained intact. In many cases, the presence of the portal has only served to accelerate the amount of top-rated talent that elite programs can recruit.
At the same time, rapid roster turnover has resulted in many mid-level teams being able to improve faster than in previous decades.
“Strengthened for the bigger schools,” Butler said. “Big SEC state
ers right at the start of the season. Additionally, the presence of the portal creates opportunities for players who get better during the season,
school, they would go to the high school game and recruit from there. The problem is if a player goes to the school that originally picked him up, then
into the transfer portal.”
Critics argue that the portal has created a system where overall success across multiple seasons depends on teams’ abilities to retain top talent and recruit more. Programs must now focus on who can offer the best deal to players, often in the form of financial incentives or rewards.
“I think it turns it into more of a professional sport for sure,” Jordan said. “Now teams can offer players these huge deals via the transfer portal, and bigger teams like UGA get a lot more funding to offer to these kids.”
The transfer portal has largely changed how fans relate to the game; roster continuity, once commonplace in college football, is now less predictable. Fans now have little to no connection to players, but now hold most connection to the team. For casual fans, this change presents little upheaval in the way they view college football. But for hardline enthusiasts, keeping up with your favorite team and their rosters has become a lot more tedious.
schools have a lot more money to offer, so they can get better players and stack their roster, so a school like Mercer can’t get the players that UGA dosnt want, theyll just go
The college football transfer portal has reshaped the sport by substantially increasing players’ freedom in their careers. For athletes, the portal represents greater control over their direction and opportunity; for programs, it functions as a solution to recruiting issues and a force of constant change.
UGA Quarterback Carson Beck, courtesy of Gova Sports
football player holding football
GCSU STUDENTS PREDICT TRENDS FOR 2026 & WHAT SHOULD STAY BEHIND IN 2025
Sydney Williams Asst. A&L Editor
As the year winds down, GCSU students are already looking ahead to what 2026 might bring in fashion, music, social media and everyday culture. While many expect the new year to introduce fresh styles and more personal expression, they also agree that some 2025 habits should be left behind.
Hannah Deal, a senior mass communication major, expects accessories to stay relevant in 2026. After a year filled with bag charms, layered jewelry and colorful add-ons, she said the trend is far from finished.
“Bag charms and charm necklaces have been very popular recently, so I think we will keep leaning toward more accessories,” Deal said. “They are also just fun, so I would like to continue seeing them.”
Emmeline Holt, a freshman mass communication major, predicts fashion to stay nostalgic in the new year.
“I see Uggs, low-rise jeans and more of the infamous Y2K style carrying over into the new year, as well as lots of new micro trends be-
cause everyone latches onto them for their short shelf life,” Holt said.
Major pop culture moments are also predicted to capture attention in the new year. One celebrity event in particular is likely to dominate headlines.
“My pop culture knowledge is limited to my niches, but I think Taylor Swift’s wedding will be a big moment,” Deal said.
Looking to 2026’s Super Bowl halftime show, Deal expressed that music and politics will overlap in meaningful ways.
“Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl performance will be very important for our current political climate,” Deal said.
“Music, and art in general, is inherently political and putting Bad Bunny on a national and global stage in 2026 is important for America because despite backlash from groups like Turning Point USA, Bad Bunny is American.”
Music trends are set to heavily influence 2026, especially as young listeners push certain artists and genres further into the mainstream.
“I think Sabrina Carpenter will continue to be huge,” Holt said. “I also think that rap will become more mainstream, more than it already is, simply because of the huge influx of fans, specifically in the younger Gen Z population.”
Kaitlyn Miles, a freshman mass communication major, said she expects social media to shift toward smaller creators next year. Instead of massive influencers steering the internet, she believes viewers will gravitate toward community-based content.
“On social media platforms, I believe there will be a rise of micro-influencers and niche communities,” Miles said.
Miles said the move toward micro-influencers may open the door for more honesty online, something she hopes will define the new year.
“I hope that 2026 can bring a year of embracing our imperfections in the world and social media,” Miles said.
With all the predictions for 2026, students feel it is just as important to talk about what should stay in 2025, especially trends they feel have run their course.
Deal said one trend she hopes stays in 2025 is overconsumption driven by social media hype.
“Buying things you do not need because they are trending is wasteful. For example, having 15 Stanley cups you do not use or buying an outfit for one occasion,” Deal said.
“I do not want to see crocs of any kind,” Holt said. “I think that excessive use of heat on hair should be left behind. Everyone should go natural. Also, I do not want to see anyone wearing super skinny ripped jeans.”
As students look ahead to 2026, many hope the new year will favor creativity and more intentional choices. Whether it is through accessories, rising artists or new digital communities, GCSU students are ready for trends that feel more expressive and less wasteful.
Holt is also ready to say goodbye to a few trends that stuck around longer than she would have liked.
Origins of Christmas: how the holiday came to be
Lucy Nunez Staff Writer
Christmas is a treasured holiday among many communities and cultures with traditions stretching far and wide. Its origins have greatly impacted the holiday known today.
The history of Christmas dates back centuries before Jesus was alive. According to History. com, early Europeans rejoiced with festivals, feasts and community during the winter solstice knowing that the worst of winter was behind them and they could look forward to days with extended sunlight.
The excitement of winter solstice festivals spread to an official date declared for Christmas around 350 A.D., according to the Vatican News. Pope Julius I chose Dec. 25 due to wanting to keep the Feast of Nativity; a popular feast celebrating Mary, the mother of Jesus.
Europeans then continued to celebrate
the Christmas season through festivals. Particularly, Christmas became a time of year when people of the upper class could give back to the less fortunate through food and drink.
Despite festivals, Christmas celebrations were not here for long.
According to History. com, English separatists who came to America in 1620 held strong Puritan beliefs, and in some states showing Christmas spirit could get you fined. These issues were due to a new wave of religious reform and the reign of Oliver Cromwell in England who vowed to rid decadence from England.
However, English customs fell out of favor after the American Revolution, and Christmas was declared a federal holiday on June 26, 1870, according to History.com
Although the declaration of Christmas as a holiday in the United States was later, our favorite holiday traditions that make Christmas whole started forming earlier.
TRADITIONS
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Local churches often help set the tone for the season through Christmas Eve services, concerts, caroling and community service projects to bring families together while celebrating Jesus Christ’s birth. While Rhodes said she enjoyed the celebrations leading up to Christmas, it cannot compare to the joy of being with family on Christmas Day.
“My favorite tradition is when the rest of my family comes over on Christmas Day. We just hang out and even
According to History. com, the legend of Santa Claus is traced back to a monk named St. Nicholas who was born in Turkey in A.D 280, St.
Claus, another magical part of Christmas is the variety of trees that are decorated each year.
Christmas trees became part of Christmas
Nicholas gave away all of his inherited wealth and traveled the countryside helping the less fortunate.
“I never really thought about the history of Santa Claus,” said Connor Gowan, a junior marketing major. “Hearing that he comes from a monk brings out one of Christmas’ most magical traditions.”
Along with Santa
play board games together, like Uno,” Rhodes said. “We get competitive over it, but we still love each other regardless.”
Jolie McLeod, a sophomore exercise science major, said Christmas is her favorite time of year as she gets to celebrate with good food and good company, catching up with friends and family she doesn’t get to see much during the semester.
“Christmas is my favorite holiday.” McLeod said “On Christmas Eve, my immediate family and my aunts and uncles spend the night at my grandmother’s house after sharing a meal.
tradition starting in Germany in the 1600s. Americans were influenced in the early 19th century and began to incorporate trees into their homes with homemade ornaments, according to History.com.
“Decorating the Christmas tree with my family is one of my favorite holiday traditions,” said Jadyn Park-
er, a sophomore public health major. “We listen to Christmas music and it brings us together.”
Christmas carols, along with decorating the tree, are another holiday favorite. According to Plymouth University, they come from thousands of years ago from winter solstice festivals and have stretched to the artists and songs we know and love today.
“My favorite Christmas carol is ‘Sleigh Ride’ by The Ronettes,” said Avery Geary, a freshman accounting major. “I love the sounds of the bells and the horses, it truly makes me feel the Christmas spirit.”
Students said Christmas carols are perfect for the holiday spirit, however, gift-giving is another part of Christmas we should unwrap the origins of.
Winter solstice festivals and the new year brought festivals and communities together to give gifts.
According to Britannica, European gift-giving
Then, we wake up Christmas morning and go through our stockings, share breakfast and lunch and just get to catch up with everyone for the break.”
For McLeod, Christmas is more than a time to celebrate with loved ones, but also an expression of her faith. The holiday, she said, holds a deeper meaning for her and her family as they honor Christ’s birth together.
“We love getting to celebrate the birth of our Savior, it’s really a wonderful time of year,” McLeod said.
McBride agreed, sharing a unique tradition her family cre-
traditions in the 17th and 18th centuries inspired America and gradually incorporated the tradition into Christmas Day.
“I love the holidays because it gives me time to really think about each family member and get them something meaningful,” said Molly Giusti, a junior education major. “I enjoy seeing their reactions when they open the gifts I get them as well.”
With the holiday season coming closer, another popular tradition is getting family together to see Christmas lights.
“My friends and I go to Lockerly in the Lights every year,” said Anna Kafati, a sophomore management major. “It’s a classic Christmas tradition and a great way to enjoy the holiday season.” Christmas has come a long way throughout the years, but its magic has stayed the same throughout ongoing traditions. These traditions truly bring out the community and togetherness of the holiday season.
ated to commemorate their faith.
“We always bake Jesus a birthday cake on Christmas Eve,” McBride said.
Whether they are decorating a fresh-cut tree, sorting through stockings, playing games, honoring their faith or simply enjoying a meal, students agreed the holidays mean more when celebrated together with loved ones. As they pack up their backpacks and head home, beloved holiday traditions are waiting to welcome them and remind them of the many reasons this season is so special.
Julia Jensen | Art Director
Kate Walker | A&L Editor
The Caterwaul
CATERWAUL: a shrill howling or wailing noise like that of a cat; commonly associated with a bobcat
A message from the Colonnade staff
On behalf of The Colonnade staff we would like to present our newest submission column, “The Caterwaul.” This is an opportunity for students to share their poetry, flash fiction, photography, drawing, comic strips and more. We are extremely excited to give students more of a place in the paper and for their creativity to be acknowledged and published. We encourage any and all students to reach out and ask questions. In the spirit of GCSU’s mascot, Thunder, the name of this column takes inspiration from all that is a bobcat. Caterwauling is the noise bobcats make often, and that is what The Colonnade intends to do with this column: make noise with your voice.
The Door Frame
by Chloe McBroom
67 inches-
She stands tall, her head brushing the end of her childhood.
66 ½ inchesShe didn’t like the girl in the mirror, her questions about what she was made for grew louder.
64 inchesShe had notebooks filled with dreams she was too embarrassed to share.
59 inches-
She learned summers always come to an end and not everyone will stay.
56 inchesShe realized that teachers are not always right and that moms and dads can fall out of love.
53 inchesShe began to ask “why?” more and never seemed to like the answer.
49 inchesShe thought band-aids could heal any wound and that the horizon ate the sun at dusk.
43 inchesShe believed her laughter made flowers grow and that coloring outside the lines was admirable.
