Issue 11 | Volume 106

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The Official Student Newspaper of Georgia College & State University December 2, 2025

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PROFESSOR EHRLICH AIDS GENERATIONS OF STUDENTS WITH DONATION Emma Tyler Asst. News Editor

when attending GCSU.

University of Maryland.

vancements. “This fund

support

allows us to provide ac-

cupied Austria in 1939

was essential for her ed-

cess to students who oth-

with her family and was

ucation as she frequent-

erwise may not be able

supported by scholarship

ly spoke about how she

to attend. Additionally,

funding as one of the first

would never have been

as a highly residential

international students to

able to pursue a col-

campus, we recognize

attend the college, previ-

lege degree without it.

that students who cannot

ously known as Georgia

“Although the Hope

afford to live on campus

State College for Women.

Scholarship is an incred-

miss out on a significant

graduation,

ible asset to students, it

part of the collegiate ex-

this large sum from her

she received a master’s

is not a need-based pro-

Maryland estate which

degree at the Univer-

gram, and Georgia is one

serves as the university’s

sity of North Carolina

of only three states with-

largest gift in its history.

and a doctorate from

out a statewide need-

The endowed scholar-

the University of Ten-

based scholarship,” said

ship will impact students

nessee before becom-

Seth Walker, Vice Pres-

in the same way she did

ing a professor at the

ident of University Ad-

Professor

Ehrlich fled Nazi-oc-

Gertrude

Ehrlich

donated

$9

million

toward

Pell

Grant-eligible GCSU students who need housing assistance scholarships.

Ehrlich passed away earlier

this

year

at

Upon

102-years-old and left

Need-based

perience.

Supporting

housing for local Pell-eligible students ensures they can fully engage in academic and community life at GCSU.” See EHRLICH | Page 2

Bobcat fall sports awards

Courtesy of Georgia College & State University

Holiday traditions Kate Walker

“My

A&L Editor As

classes

wind

with late nights in the library and last-minute presentations, students are also preparing for far

more

cheerful; heading home for the holidays. For many students, Winter Break is not only a time to rest and reset for the

OPINION

Bryan Cade | Asst. Sports Editor

spring

semester,

but

also a chance to reunite

seasons, ready to dish out awards.

onds at the UNG Cross Country

with hometown friends,

Before diving into the awards,

Invitational early in the season to

visit extended family

this is my opinion and not of-

capture first place in the 8K com-

and celebrate with the

Georgia College & State Uni-

ficially connected with GCSU

petition. Smith also almost fin-

annual traditions that

versity’s fall sports wrapped up

Athletics. Also, the true MVPs

ished All-Conference in the Peach

their seasons, making way for

are the fans of GCSU Athletics

Belt Conference Championship.

the winter and spring sports on

and those who’ve followed the

Freshman of the Year for men’s

campus. However, it has been

teams throughout the seasons.

cross country was a little more

sea-

Beginning with men’s cross

difficult, with a tough decision be-

son for GCSU fall sports, and

country, Shipley Smith made the

tween two in particular, freshmen

were simply being to-

with

awards.

decision extremely easy for the

who had excellent “rookie” sea-

gether with loved ones.

While men’s golf and men’s and

MVP of the season. Smith has

sons: Karl Ritzler and Zach Hilyer.

For Basia McBride,

In

recent

Bryan Cade

memory,

Asst Sports Editor

an

extremely

success

successful

comes

women’s tennis did compete this

undoubtedly

mentioned

Ritzler surprised me out of

fall, the awards will focus more

quite a few times during the

the gate during the season, fin-

fall issues, and for good reason.

ishing second for the Bobcats,

country, women’s volleyball and

The sophomore from Kennesaw,

16th overall, in the Converse

women’s soccer. However, don’t

Georgia, led the Bobcats in five of

Kick-Off race to open the season,

worry, fans of golf and tennis: I

their six races during the season,

and third for the Bobcats, ninth

will be monitoring the teams’ per-

giving a shoutout to Evan Rehrau-

overall, at the UNG Invitational.

formance throughout the spring

er, who outran Smith by 7.4 sec-

See AWARDS | Page 4

towards men’s and women’s cross

been

make the holiday season so special. Students said whether their celebrations were elaborate or more relaxed, the most cherished

always

goes to cut down a Christ-

down and finals arrive

something

family

moments

mas 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 festiv-

psychology

ities and faith in a way

major, the transition

she will always treasure.

a

senior

from Thanksgiving to Christmas

happens

“We

usually

do

simple

family

tradi-

overnight. As soon as

tions like going to see

the clock strikes mid-

Christmas

night, her family wastes

attending a few church

no time getting into

events,”

the Christmas spirit.

lights

Rhodes

and said.

See TRADTIONS | Page 6

NEWS | PG. 3

SPORTS | PG. 5

ARTS & LIFE | PG. 6

CATERWAUL | PG. 7

See how higher enrollment affects GCSU students.

GCSU students have mixed opinions went it comes to the college football transfer portal.

Students give their opinion on what trends are to come and what we should keep in 2025.

From poetry to Holiday recipes to appreciation for graduates.

IS GCSU POPULAR?

CFB TRANSFER PORTAL INS AND OUTS FOR 2026

STUDENTS’ VOICES AT GCSU

2

AMELIA MCEWEN, NEWS EDITOR EMMA TYLER, ASST. NEWS EDITOR

12.2.2025

NEWS EHRLICH

Continued from page 1

gifts considering they typi-

impact of philanthropy. Be-

cally account for a significant

cause of GCSU’s intention-

portion of annual fundraising.

ality in communicating how

Senior Director of Planned,

scholarships impact students

Estate and Principle Giv-

and their fostering of stron-

ing Kelly Pope was hired

ger relationships with donors,

in 2024 to work with do-

there is a surge in donations

nors daily and help them

compared to ever before.

align their personal goals

“I hope her legacy commu-

for opportunities to include

nicates that one person can

GCSU in their estate plans.

profoundly impact the lives of

They also rebranded their

many,” Walker said. “Professor

legacy recognition program

Ehrlich never forgot the schol-

as the Legacy Circle to bet-

arship support that made her

ter reflect the importance of

education possible, and she

generosity of donors they will

Professor Ehrlich and contin-

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 reward-

Courtesy of Georgia College & State University

never meet. When they are in

ue the cycle of generosity that

a position to give back to their

strengthens our university.”

these future commitments.

chose to honor that gift by pay-

Alumni and donors are

ing it forward in an extraordi-

responding to this renewed

nary way. Many of our stu-

alma mater, we hope they will

GCSU will recognize Eh-

focus on sharing the direct

dents today benefit from the

remember the example set by

rlich scholars as they progress

ing students in Fall 2026 as the

through their education and

university finalizes scholarship

again as they graduate. Eh-

criteria, establishes a clear ap-

rlich will continue to be rec-

plication and selection process, ognized and honored through collaborates with house and fidonor recognition opportu-

nancial aid teams and ensures

nities, ongoing stewardship

appropriate donor recognition.

and stories of students whose

GCSU is intentional in ex-

lives were impacted by her

panding how they educate and engage donors around legacy

Courtesy of Georgia College & State University

VOLUME 106 | NO. 11

Editorial Board

Mary Ciucevich.............. Editor in Chief Rylee Holland.................. Managing Editor Julia Jensen...................... Art Director Amelia McEwen............ News Editor Emma Tyler....................... Asst. News Editor Benjamin Clark............... Sports Editor Bryan Cade....................... Asst. Sports Editor Arts & Life Editor Kate Walker...............

Sydney Williams.............Asst. Arts & Life Editor Isabella McComis..........Digital Media Editor Reaghan Shehee............Digital Media Editor Reagan Robinson.......... PR Manager Haley Quimby.................. Ad Sales Manager Mikkel Christensen....... Faculty Adviser

*All Opinion columns are the opinion of the columnist, not of The Colonnade.

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kindness in this historical gift.

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3

AMELIA MCEWEN, NEWS EDITOR EMMA TYLER, ASST. NEWS EDITOR

12.2.2025

NEWS

USG schools experience surge in enrollment Jane Carr

apparent to upperclassmen

tion major. “The increase in

Staff Writer

who have watched enroll-

students seems to overcrowd

ment climb each year. Some

the population on campus,

say the rising numbers bring

lowering the quality of food

challenges,

con-

and the efficiency of the bus

cerns about parking, hous-

routes. While this brings new

ing

availability,

additions to the environment

though others note that the

on campus, this is overall

overall

experience

lessening the ability for stu-

has not shifted dramatically.

dents to function as they did

“I think a lot of upper-

before the influx of students.”

classmen are upset about the

Taylor feels as though this

rising enrollment because of

increase ultimately impacts

limited parking space and

students and their experience at

limited housing, but overall,

GCSU. She also described what

I don’t think it’s too big of an

she sees as factors contributing

larger student populations.

make better use of the space

issue,” said Cassidy Wilson,

to GCSU’s rising popularity.

Housing availability remains

the university already has, so

a sophomore English major.

“I think this school’s popu-

a pressing concern for many

students don’t lose access to

Wilson said she believes

larity stems from the high ac-

students. Some departments

the university’s sustained re-

ceptance rate, its social events,

have also noted the need for

the resources they rely on.

cruitment efforts are con-

and nightlife,” Taylor said. “I

additional faculty positions

tributing

would think if the acceptance

to keep class sizes stable.

growth in first-year classes.

rate decreased, there would

Across the state, USG has

“I think what’s driving

be fewer students applying,

said it is working with campus-

this increase is the work that

leading to funneling more

es in Georgia to prepare for ex-

the university has done in

students to smaller schools.”

pected future growth. Officials

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 pe-

and

including class

campus

to

the

steady

Julia Jensen | Arts Director

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 uni-

have

have pointed to ongoing efforts

men,” Wilson said. “I think

cited strong statewide inter-

to strengthen student support

there’s a lot of stress over

est in public institutions, in-

resources, expand facilities

University continued this fall,

registration, and this defi-

creased outreach and the draw

and maintain academic stan-

as the university received its

nitely isn’t helped by the big-

of campus life as contributors

dards as enrollment climbs.

highest number of first-year

ger and bigger class sizes.”

to the system’s overall rise in

As enrollment continues to

student applications ever re-

Other students say the in-

enrollment. The trend aligns

climb, students are starting to

corded during its fall early ac-

crease is beginning to strain

with Georgia’s growing popu-

feel the numbers in a few fa-

tion period, with over 5,000.

daily

operations.

lation and the increasing num-

miliar places. Study rooms in

That figure marks a 16% in-

One individual said the rap-

ber of high school graduates

the library fill up earlier in the

crease over last year’s num-

id influx is affecting sever-

pursuing four-year degrees.

day, and some students believe

student bodies while preserv-

ber of applications received,

al services students rely on.

The continued expansion

it’s harder to find open time

ing the quality of academic

and an 83% increase over the

“I feel as though this in-

brings questions about long-

in shared spaces like science

and campus life. For now, stu-

number recorded in 2022.”

crease may negatively impact

term planning. Services such

labs or rehearsal rooms. These

dents and administrators con-

The growth is visible on

the institution,” said Autumn

as advising, transportation and

shifts have sparked ongoing

tinue to navigate the realities

campus and has become more

Taylor, a junior music educa-

dining must adapt to support

conversations about how to

of a campus in high demand.

riod of unprecedented growth at Georgia College and State

outreach to incoming fresh-

campus

University

officials

versity 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

Cyberattacks reach unknowing college students Amelia McEwen News Editor 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,

anymore, I’m still surprised

Russia has been known to

election.

ing to the U.S. Department

how affected our media is by

According to the U.S. De-

of State, is possible through

launch disinformation cam-

other countries. It makes me

partment of Justice Archives,

paigns on the U.S. media to

wonder how much disinfor-

“Those narratives targeted spe-

For GCSU students, it is still

amplify

divisions.

mation I believed was true.”

cific American demographics

necessary to be aware of the

The Department of Justice

The accessibility of news

and regions in a calculated

effects and preventative mea-

warns that the media con-

through social media makes

effort to subvert our election.

sures regarding Russian gov-

sumed by American citizens

it easy for unsuspecting in-

Our republic depends on elec-

ernment incentives. Instead of

may be altered by Russian in-

dividuals to succumb to fake

tions that are free from foreign

indulging in news from social

fluence. In particular, the so-

news. According to an article

interference, and we will not

media, it is recommended by

cial media applications that

from the British Broadcasting

rest in our efforts to expose

the National Education Asso-

are the most impacted include,

Company, more than 54% of

foreign malign influence oper-

ciation that students get their

people rely on social media

ations and protect our democ-

information from trustworthy

for their news intake. This is

racy, without fear or favor.”

sources, or at least be able

more than the 48% of peo-

Russia has even been found

to recognize what is reliable.

ple who rely on news sites.

to pump out waves of fab-

“To avoid fake news, I fact-

The Russian government

ricated news stories during

check statements especially

is aware of the large demo-

major U.S. events. This makes

for political news by relying

graphic of U.S. citizens who

it more difficult for stu-

on proven and trusted sourc-

consume social media con-

dents to recognize if what

es like The New York Times or

tent. The U.S. Department

they are viewing is credible.

Associated Press,” Galla said.

of Justice highlights the Rus-

“During the election last

GCSU provides students

sian government’s ability to

year, I kept seeing videos on

with subscriptions and access

impact U.S. media because

social media about the candi-

to various news sites through

it uses companies under its

dates that didn’t really seem

the library’s online resourc-

control as a tool. These com-

that true,” Waldron said. “I’m

es and databases. GALILEO

panies create websites tailored

still glad I voted for who I vot-

is also an extension of the

to Americans so they con-

ed for, but some people may

GCSU library that provides a

sume

propaganda.

have been swayed one way

wide range of news resources.

fake

pro-

or the other by untrue stories

Students at GCSU have an

files and cybersquatting, a

on social media. That real-

automatic free subscription to

way of selling and profiting

ly puts this into perspective.”

The New York Times. For digi-

from somebody’s name, take

The U.S. has long debated

tal access, navigate to the web-

me-

how to combat this threat, with

site, accessnyt.com, choose

dia to promote false narra-

the most recent action being to

“Georgia College and State

tives. One of the most nota-

prevent threats before they can

University” and sign up us-

ble instances was during the

reach their target. This, accord-

ing your GCSU email address.

political

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

Fake

place

Julia Jensen | Art Director

Russian names,

through

social

2024

presidential

diplomacy

and

deterrence.

4

BENJAMIN CLARK, SPORTS EDITOR BRYAN CADE, ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

12.2.2025

SPORTS

AWARDS

Bobcats in the blue race

to keep Mason off the

team with three shutouts.

give her credit for it, as

the first one to throw her

at McAlpine Creek Park.

first-team All-PBC team.

Yet, Ella Hayes’ streak of

Carlton played in only

body on the ground to

Ironically, the case

“I think it’s a pretty

three consecutive shut-

85 sets; she still placed

make the dig and make

is similar for Russell, a

pragmatic decision,” said

outs and PBC Goalkeep-

third on the team in

the defensive play. She

freshman on the men’s

Hampton Pelton, voice

er of the Week honors

kills.

Nevertheless,

also carries the ener-

cross country team. She

of GCSU women’s soc-

in early October make

King needed someone

gy and is a leader and a

performed

neck-and-

cer. “I think another as-

to step up, and the an-

captain in the back row.”

neck with the MVP, This-

pect for Sarah Mason to

swer was Kaylee Weeks.

Finally, if Fagerström’s

dale, in the early going,

call out is just how high

Weeks, a sophomore

earlier Freshman of the

following just behind her

her work capacity was.

from Warsaw, Indiana,

Year honors weren’t easy

in the first two races of

Not only the ability, but

came out of nowhere,

enough, then I present

the year and being the top

also that she employed

collecting an impecca-

Avery Huyck. Huyck’s

freshman runner for the

it on a daily basis. When

ble 269 kills and 301.0

231 kills sit just below

Bobcats in the third race.

I would commentate, I

points for the Bobcats to

Weeks’ 269, as do her

However, while Rus-

would watch her do an

lead the team in her first

points; however, she also

sell performed well in

80-yard spring, going up-

difficult.

year on the court. On

filled the stat sheets, sit-

the early going, I pres-

field over and over again,

However, I’m going

the opposite side, Weeks

ting fifth for the Bobcats

ent the Freshman of the

so I’m right there with

to give Goalkeeper of

accumulated 200 digs

in digs and collecting

Year award for women’s

you on Sarah Mason.”

the Year to Fortin. While

to match, earning her a

27 blocks on the season.

Fagerström

Hayes performed well

deserving MVP award.

Huyck’s

lin. While she began the

made my decision for

enough even to bring

“Kaylee Weeks came

helped expand the Bob-

season late, she quickly

Freshman of the Year a

home PBC Goalkeeper of

into this program and

cat offense and shows a

improved her perfor-

cake walk, seeing that she

the Week honors, Fortin’s

made

immediate

promising future for the

mances with the Bobcats.

actually won PBC Fresh-

impact,” said Michelle

women’s volleyball team.

injury, it’s difficult to ig-

consistency throughout

She later took home hon-

man of the Year anyway.

Aquino, voice of GCSU

nore that Lauren This-

the season decided for

ors, finishing first for the

first-ev-

me. Nevertheless, while

women’s volleyball. “She

been one of my favor-

dale is this team’s MVP.

Bobcats in the Peach Belt

er Bobcat to win such

Fortin earned my honors

not only dominated in

ite players to watch this

The sophomore from

Conference Champion-

an award, was third on

this season, with both

the front row, but also

year,” Aquino said. “As a

Snellville, Georgia, led

ship and second in the

the Bobcats in goals

athletes being sopho-

made an impact as a six

freshman, she came into

the women’s cross coun-

Regional

and points, and helped

mores and both play-

rotation outside. Any-

this program and made

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

cross country to Shank-

competition

Kaisa

She’s

the

I’m split on the decision, and I don’t think there’s a wrong answer here -Hampton Pelton

the

decision

an

hard-hitting

“Avery

Huyck

has

try in the first three rac-

Courtesy of Alexus Duncan

the Bobcats collect sev-

ers’ consistency, head

time she was in the front

a huge difference on the

en

during

coach Jack Marchant will

row, our setters knew that

outside. I love the way

cer made my decisions

the season. Also, third

be able to sleep easily

they could give her the

she always played with

relatively easy this year,

place in goals is one

with whoever is in goal.

ball on the outside and

so much confidence and

with players who per-

thing, but third place

“I’m split on the de-

she would take care of it.”

was really aggressive with

formed at an extreme

in goals as a defender

cision, and I don’t think

Speaking of the defen-

her swings. She always

level.

is another. Fagerström

there’s a wrong answer

sive side of volleyball, I

played to win, bringing

without a doubt in my

is

the

here,” Pelton said. “What

don’t think there is any-

a really refreshing, pos-

mind, won this year’s

Freshman of the Year.

sticks out for me with

one more deserving of

itive energy to the court

women’s soccer MVP.

“You know, I don’t

Fortin is that there were

Defensive Player of the

as a true freshman.”

The senior from At-

know off top how old

a lot of high-velocity

Year than Alanis Bernis.

Once again, these are

lanta, Georgia, led the

she is, but she’s a fresh-

shots that came her way

Not only did she collect

my personal opinions

team in goals, assists,

man, maybe 19, yet she’s

from precarious posi-

574 digs, set the most

for the Bobcat MVP and

shots, shots on goal and

playing like she’s 22 years

tions, and she was able

digs in a four-set match

Freshman of the Year

points. Her impressive

old, with her field aware-

to deflect or retrieve

in program history with

awards, as well as the

season was not only

ness and pass accura-

all of them. The one or

38, but she also took

other couple of awards

outstanding on paper;

cy,” Pelton said. “Fresh-

two goals I remember

home the record for most

sprinkled in. The Bob-

her leadership, tied with

man of the Year is very

were typically when the

digs in a career for Geor-

cats’ fall sports had suc-

Adriana Duque in games

much

I’m

striker was three feet in

gia College & State Uni-

cessful seasons overall,

started, helped the Bob-

excited to see her con-

front of her or when it

versity. Anyone arguing

yet these decisions were

cats maintain their streak

tinue her path forward.”

was a ricochet. I hate to

Defensive Player of the

still challenging. With

of consecutive playoff

Goalkeeping must al-

use the word luck, but

Year for Alanis Bernis is

spring

host teams. While this

ways be respected when

luck can be associated.”

arguing with a brick wall.

up, I’m excited to see the

article

opinion-fo-

discussing soccer, which

Finally, women’s vol-

“It’s a no-brainer for

performance of all the

cused, I don’t want to say

makes this year’s most

leyball. Head coach Ab-

Alanis to be defensive

players, and I’m look-

and Emma Shanklin, and

anything against the PBC

difficult award in GCSU

igail King lost senior

player of the year,” Aqui-

ing forward to mak-

an honorable mention

committee; however, it

athletics. Kassidy Fortin

right side Camryn Carl-

no said. “She is a domi-

ing my award decisions

to Lily Flood, who set a

must have been a diffi-

allowed only 0.78 goals

ton for a large chunk of

nant force in the back row

as the year continues.

personal best and led the

cult decision for them

per game, leading the

the season, and I will

for the Bobcats, always

As always, go Bobcats.

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

(16th and 43rd overall).

GCSU women’s soc-

Sarah

is

Mason,

shutouts

undoubtedly

warranted.

sports

coming

5

BENJAMIN CLARK, SPORTS EDITOR BRYAN CADE, ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

12.2.2025

SPORTS

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

For the schools, I think

grams now being able

making smaller schools

transfers for a better deal,

into the transfer portal.”

it

instability.”

to rely on the portal for

act as filter programs

it allows these schools

Critics argue that the

It follows that many

any gaps in their roster.

into large, state schools.

with a lot of funding to

portal has created a sys-

fans agree with the im-

For top-tier programs

One common gripe is

make powerhouse teams.

tem where overall suc-

pact that the transfer

with a solid foundation

in the supposed “purity”

While a minor griev-

cess across multiple sea-

portal has had on play-

of funding, the transfer

of a school program, as

ance,

underscores

sons depends on teams’

ers’ freedom to choose

portal offers a quick way

it relates to the popula-

the division seen in

abilities to retain top

the program and school

to upgrade key positions.

tion of players from the

CFB fan communities,

talent and recruit more.

that’s right for them, as

Experienced transfers al-

state. Many in college

where many are divided

Programs must now fo-

before

low these schools to patch

sports speak out against

on whether or not the

cus on who can offer the

creates

the

loosening

it

the

of transfer regulations,

transfer portal is healthy

portal argue that it gives

players were forced to

to the overall longevi-

players more freedom

sit out for a whole year,

ty of College Football.

when considering their

creating

choice of school and fu-

lays in their careers.

hopes that the transfer

ture career. Meanwhile,

With the new trans-

portal would influence

those who disagree with

fer portal, players now

the divide between elite

the

presence

routinely move between

and

mainly argue that top

programs searching for

the overall gap in these

programs

expanded roles, better

programs has largely re-

more benefits to players,

development

mained intact. In many

therefore being able to

nities and increased ex-

portal’s

often

offer

customize their rosters with the most consistent-

massive

Despite

de-

opportu-

posure to the game. For many athletes, the abil-

ly performing players.

ity to change programs

The most immediate

without losing eligibility

and undeniable impact

or status as a player has

is the increased freedom

made player retention

for players, as athletes

more viable, creating a

can now have unprece-

better environment over-

dented control over their

all for college athletes.

careers. Those who are

“I would agree that it

dissatisfied with coach-

gives the players more

ing, playing time, per-

freedom,” said Tyler But-

sonal drama with other

ler, a sophomore eco-

players or other issues

nomics

can now simply enter

can just transfer if they

the transfer portal, re-

don’t like their deal with

ceiving an offer from

a certain school, and

another school, thereby

there’s not much holding

neglecting

major.

UGA Quarterback Carson Beck, courtesy of Gova Sports

any weaknesses, intro-

the transfer portal, sim-

ducing star talent at posi-

ply because it creates

tions previously lacking.

teams with players from

For smaller schools,

all across the nation, not

the portal has mixed

only from the state that

results. While it does

the school represents.

allow schools to add tal-

Fans consider whether

ent that might not have

the transfer portal made

been available through

schools’ teams less “Geor-

high school recruiting,

gian” or less “Texan.”

it also makes it easier

“Not really,” said Jor-

for larger programs to

dan, “If a school really

recruit the best perform-

wanted a player in high

the

non-elite

early

teams,

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

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

they view college football. But for hardline enthusiasts, keeping up with your favorite team and their rosters has be-

the

previ-

them back from doing

restrictive

pro-

so. Especially with some

cess that players would

schools now paying play-

have to endure when

ers, like Tennessee, I

transfer portal has re-

transferring

think a lot of players are

shaped the sport by

gives

going to take that into

substantially increasing

more freedom to the

account when they weigh

players’ freedom in their

players,”

the deal they got with

ously

“It

schools.

definitely

said

Jackson

come a lot more tedious.

The college football

football player holding football

careers. For athletes, the

school.”

ers right at the start of

school, they would go to

schools have a lot more

portal represents greater

“But I

From a competitive

the season. Additionally,

the high school game and

money to offer, so they

control over their direc-

think they will follow

standpoint, the transfer

the presence of the por-

recruit from there. The

can get better players

tion and opportunity;

the money most of the

portal has significant-

tal creates opportunities

problem is if a player goes

and stack their roster, so

for programs, it func-

time and go for a team

ly affected how teams

for players who get bet-

to the school that origi-

a school like Mercer can’t

tions as a solution to

that offers a huge schol-

are

ter during the season,

nally picked him up, then

get the players that UGA

recruiting issues and a

arship and a sports car.

the season, with pro-

dosnt want, theyll just go

force of constant change.

Jordan, a freshman finance major.

their

current

built

throughout

6

KATE WALKER, A&L EDITOR SYDNEY WILLIAMS, ASST. A&L EDITOR

12.2.2025

ARTS & LIFE

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.

Holt is also ready to say goodbye to a few trends that stuck around

Julia Jensen | Art Director

longer than she would have liked.

“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.

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

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

Kate Walker | A&L Editor

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

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

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.

play board games together, like Uno,”

Then, we wake up Christmas morning

ated to commemorate their faith.

Rhodes said. “We get competitive over

and go through our stockings, share

“We always bake Jesus a birthday

it, but we still love each other regardless.”

breakfast and lunch and just get to

Jolie McLeod, a sophomore ex-

catch up with everyone for the break.”

cake on Christmas Eve,” McBride said.

ercise science major, said Christ-

For McLeod, Christmas is more

mas is her favorite time of year as

than a time to celebrate with loved

she gets to celebrate with good food

ones, but also an expression of her

and good company, catching up with

faith. The holiday, she said, holds a

friends and family she doesn’t get

deeper meaning for her and her family

to see much during the semester.

as they honor Christ’s birth together.

“Christmas is my favorite holiday.”

“We love getting to celebrate the

of being with family on Christmas Day.

McLeod said “On Christmas Eve, my

birth of our Savior, it’s really a won-

packs and head home, beloved hol-

“My favorite tradition is when the

immediate family and my aunts and

derful time of year,” McLeod said.

iday traditions are waiting to wel-

rest of my family comes over on Christ-

uncles spend the night at my grand-

mas Day. We just hang out and even

mother’s house after sharing a meal.

Continued from page 1 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

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 back-

a

come them and remind them of the

unique tradition her family cre-

many reasons this season is so special.

McBride

agreed,

sharing

7

RYLEE HOLLAND, MANAGING EDITOR MARY CIUCEVICH, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

12.2.2025

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

Holiday Sangria

by Chloe McBroom

The Colonnade does not condone unlawful drinking

67 inchesShe stands tall, her head brushing the end of her childhood.

CONTAINS ALOCHOL

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 inchesShe 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.

Ingredients 1 bottle of dry red wine ½ cup of orange liqueur 1 cup of Brandy 2 cups of apple/orange juice 1 cup of cranberry/berry juice

½ an orange sliced 1 apple sliced ¼ bag of cranberries ¼ of a lemon sliced

Directions 1. Slice all fruit besides cranberries and place into a pitcher 2.Pour bottle of wine over the fruit

53 inchesShe began to ask “why?” more and never seemed to like the answer.

3.Pour in orange liqueur

49 inchesShe thought band-aids could heal any wound and that the horizon ate the sun at dusk.

6.Pour in cranberry/berry juice

4.Pour in Brandy 5.Pour in apple/orange juice

7.Stir well 8.For best taste, let sit overnight or 4-10 hours

43 inchesShe believed her laughter made flowers grow and that coloring outside the lines was admirable.

Congratulating the graduating excutive staff of the past & present Thank you and we wish you the best!

Paige Blakemore Managing Editor | ‘24 to ‘25 Arts & Life Editor | ‘23 to ‘24 Delaney Derry Editor-in-Chief | ‘25 Opinion Editor | ‘24

Rylee Holland Asst. News Editor | ‘25 Managing Editor | ‘25