Issue 8 | Volume 106

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The Official Student Newspaper of Georgia College & State University November 11, 2025

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PETTING ZOO Kate Walker A&L Editor

The team of Leadership Constultants for the Leadership Academy program

GCSU’s leadership programs encourage community engagment Amelia McEwen

well as the community.

that is through volun-

impact that the Leader-

News Editor

“In the Leadership

teer work or advocacy.

ship Programs can have,

Programs, we emphasize

Not only is the com-

not only on their outlook

two things: How to be

munity benefitted, but

on life, but also on their

an effective leader and

so are the students them-

future careers and the

thinking about how you

selves. These students

larger impact they wish

can use your leadership

are equipped with being

to have a positive impact

able to apply their pro-

to make on the world,”

on the world around

gram experiences in ca-

you,” said Chelsey Brant-

reer-based circumstanc-

ley, the Assistant Di-

es. Key words such as

rector of the Office of

“innovation and creativ-

Leadership

Programs.

ity” and “leadership ex-

Leadership Academy, the

Communities around

perience” are eye-catch-

the world can bene-

ing to employers, and

Leadership

fit from programs like

these terms can be in-

program and the Geor-

these.

Students

who

cluded in their resumes.

gia Education Mentor-

build

this

leadership

“As the Leadership

ship program. Each one

style

and

foundation

Programs Assistant, I

is strategically crafted

into their lives can drive

cannot stress enough to

to cater to students, as

positive change, whether

students the long-term

GCSU’s

Leadership

Programs are composed of three organizations that teach students how to engage in their community,

ultimately

to

spark change in the world and to serve as leaders for the public good.

The three options for students to join are the Certificate

On Thursday, Nov. 6, the GCSU Office of Student Engagement hosted the Wildlife Critters Circle of Life Petting Zoo on the library green space, inviting students to relax and enjoy meeting a variety of animals. The event featured barnyard favorites such as goats, chickens, rabbits and pigs, along with more exotic creatures like alligators, hedgehogs, snakes and chinchillas.

Sara Goodelman, the Student Engagement Program Coordinator, organizes the petting zoo once every semester as a way for students to unwind amid the demands of college life.

“I try to bring them around midterms or right before finals, so it’s a big stress reliev-

er for our students,” Goodelman said.

Students were all smiles, snapping photos of hedgehogs in their palms and baby bunnies cradled in their arms.

For freshman biology major Katie O’Brien, the petting zoo offered a chance to interact with animals she doesn’t normally get to see up close.

“I love animals, and then I saw all of the kinds of animals they have here, like the bunnies, the pigs, the chickens, the ducks, some animals you can’t touch every day,” O’Brien said.

“This is therapy for me.”

While cuddling a baby rabbit, O’Brien confirmed it was definitely the highlight of her day.

“I’ve never seen bunnies and Guinea pigs this small, it’s adorable.” O’Brien said.

See PETTING ZOO | Page 6

said Anna Cruickshank, an employee and student in the Leadership Programs. “Joining the programs is one of the best first steps you can take in starting your leadership journey, one that helps you grow personally, while pursuing goals that contribute to the greater good.”

See LEADERSHIP | Page 2

Bella McComis | Digital Media Editor

GCSU’s women’s Soccer & Volleyball season recap Bryan Cade

for the ability to host the

as the previous year, as

Coach Jack Marchant of

Asst. Sports Editor

Flagler College Saints

they fell 1-0 to the Saints.

the women’s soccer team.

seniors in the previ-

“Going

back-to-back

ous year, the Marchant

Georgia College & State University women’s soccer and women’s volleyball enter the final days of the regular seasons as they enter the Peach Belt

on Saturday, Nov. 8, in

“We

obviously

put

After

losing

many

While the Bobcats’

women’s

soccer

team

was not able to make it

the quarterfinals; how-

ourselves in a good posi-

fourth-place finishes has

brought in eight fresh-

ever, their second con-

tion to do a little bit better

been really pleasing, es-

men: Kaisa Fagerström,

secutive opportunity to

than that, but, ultimately,

pecially after losing 14 se-

Jenni Järventaus, Rachel

host the quarterfinals

we’ve achieved what we

niors last year and bring-

Zetina, Taylor Horton,

but unsuccessful. The

was not as successful

wanted to achieve,” said

ing in four freshmen.”

Izzy Sause, Darby Boran,

Bobcats’

Lillie Sheffield, Alayna

took home the honors

Cobb and Brittany Bakke.

of Freshman of the Year

Conference Tournament.

GCSU women’s soccer

“The freshmen this

concluded its regular sea-

year had to step up into

son with a 7-7-4 record,

certain roles, so to give

with a 5-3-2 record in the

past the quarterfinals, the season was anything Fagerström

as well as an appearance on the All-Confer-

them that experience,

ence First-Team for the

going into next year is

Peach Belt Conference.

Their performance in the

really pleasing,” March-

regular season gave the

Sarah Mason and Adri-

ant said. “I’ve been over

Bobcats a fourth-seed-

the moon with them.

ana Duque were also

ed position in the con-

They’ve been awesome.

ference

They’re going to be future

Peach Belt Conference.

tournament.

This lined them up

Courtesy of Austin Zscach, GCSU Atheletic Department

leaders of the program.”

named to the All-Conference

Second-Team.

See RECAP | Page 4

NEWS | PG. 4

SPORTS | PG. 5

ARTS & LIFE | PG. 6

THE CATERWAUL | PG. 7

After 14 years as the chair of the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Pillay moves up.

Learn more about the investigations surrounding gambling within the NBA.

GCSU celebrates the importance of integrity, accountability and respect.

From poetry to fall nature to Thanksgiving recipes.

INDIREN PILLAY NAMED DEAN OF ARTS & SCIENCES

NBA GAMBLING SCANDAL

USG ETHICS AWARENESS WEEK

GCSU’S VOICE AT THE COLONNADE

2

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

11.11.2025

NEWS Leadership

to gain firsthand insight

hands-on activities to

emphasizes more career

It’s also a great opportuni-

This is an opportuni-

into how programming,

give students the full

development by pairing

ty for building leadership

ty for students to build

event coordination and

leadership

experience.

students with mentors

skills with your peers.”

cross-cultural

student engagement op-

Though

different

from businesses that are

The Leadership Pro-

nication and leadership

erate behind the scenes,”

strategies are tailored

a part of the Georgia

grams are continuing

skills across the globe.

Cruickshank

said.

to each, The Leadership

Chamber of Commerce.

to aid community and

Students outside of

Each program uses

Academy is for fresh-

“It’s just a great op-

student success through

the Leadership Programs

some of the same frame-

men and gives them a

portunity for network-

its efforts. As of now,

are still eligible to apply

work. They all have a

general foundation of

ing,” said Emily Wright,

Dr. Harold Mock, the

for this trip. For more

demic and professional

combination

leadership learning, the

a junior philosophy and

program director, is be-

information, visit GC-

journey since she joined.

on-one

Leadership

Certificate

political science major.

ginning to host interest

SU’s website and click

Continued from page 1 Cruickshank’s experiences, both as a student and as an employee, have shown her the true impact this involvement can have. She has seen positive changes in her aca-

of

one-

consultations,

commu-

leadership

coaching,

Program dives deeper

“You get to build a really

meetings for the Inter-

on the tab, “Leadership

I’ve had over the past few

small

sessions

into the theory behind

strong relationship with

cultural Leadership Pro-

Programs,”

years have been unlike

and a classroom set-

serving the public good,

someone who is a profes-

gram study abroad trip

gate

any other, allowing me

ting. They also integrate

while the GEM program

sional in the field already.

to Strasbourg, France.

Leadership in France.”

“The

opportunities

group

to

and

navi-

“Intercultural

Milledgeville’s timeless treasure: The Old Govenor’s Mansion Amelia McEwen

Mansion served as General Sherman’s

you’re doing that about the past and

GCSU prides itself in its first build-

News Editor

headquarters. America’s deep political

its issues, then you’re kind of training

ing being the Old Governor’s Man-

The Old Governor’s Mansion, lo-

history is thus remembered by the mu-

your brain to do that in the present.”

sion, back in 1889, because of its

cated in the heart of Milledgeville, has

seum today. Students, even outside of

The political complexities remem-

symbolism to Milledgeville’s deep

been transformed into a museum as

the history department, have been en-

bered by the Old Governor’s Mansion,

historical roots. The building initially

a way to remember its past, with its

couraged to visit the museum through

specifically, relate to slavery and the col-

served as a dormitory, but since 2001,

modern existence reflecting the po-

online promotion. GCSU’s website has

lapse of the Southern political structure.

the state of Georgia and GCSU have

litical complexities of early America.

a section dedicated to the Old Gover-

Enslaved African Americans lived and

put significant efforts into restoring it.

The mansion today is filled with col-

nor’s Mansion. It includes tour infor-

worked there, leading up to and during

Since then, the structure has earned

lected artifacts, with the intention of

nine awards, with the most notable be-

preserving the history of its earliest in-

ing the “National Historic Landmark

habitants. Tours of the mansion are held

Building” and “Accredited by the Amer-

during the week and during holidays

ican Alliance of Museums” awards.

to uphold its historical influence on

This further emphasizes its true influ-

the state. Weekly tours run from Tues-

ence, not just locally, but nationally.

day to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“I’ve heard that it’s really cool, I have

and on Sundays from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

a friend who’s also a history major and

Georgia governors resided in the Old

works there and she said she’s learned a

Governor’s Mansion from 1939 to 1986

lot about history in the area just from

before it was seized and abandoned.

working there,” said Chloe Melton, a

At the time, Milledgeville was Geor-

junior history major. “I’d be interested

gia’s first state capital. The first of eight governors that lived here was Gov-

Reaghan Shehee | Digital Media Editor

in a holiday event. I think it’d be really cool to host history guest lectures there.”

mation, upcoming events and more.

the Civil War. After the war ended, the

The next upcoming holiday event

was Governor Charles Jones Jenkins.

“Contextualizing the things around

capital was then moved to Atlanta and

is “Prance N’ Dance” and it is sched-

In 1864, General William T. Sher-

us is one way to get interested in his-

ceased to be the governor’s quarters.

uled for Saturday, Nov. 15 from 6-9

man’s Union army converged and

tory and to sort of understand how

“So many students say that they

p.m. Tickets are running at $35 per

passed through Milledgeville during

we’ve gotten to where we are now,” said

thought the mansion would be boring,

person and are available on GCSU’s

their “March to the Sea,” burning mili-

James Welborn, a professor of history.

but it ended up being one of their favor-

official website. A previous hit was

tary infrastructure as a way to break the

“I think more broadly, thinking

ite assignments of the semester,” said

the “Death After Dark Tours” host-

Confederacy down. The Old Governor’s

historically is thinking critically. If

Jessica Wallace, a professor of history.

ed in October in light of Halloween.

ernor Georgia R. Gilmer, and the last

VOLUME 106 | NO. 8

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.

@TheColonnade

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3

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

11.11.2025

NEWS

Indiren Pillay, the new Dean of Arts and Sciences Emma Tyler Asst. News Editor

Professor Indiren Pillay assumed the permanent position of Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences on Nov. 1 after serving as chair of GCSU’s Department of Biological and Environmen-

that I am not teaching.”

chair, I still taught and

her research consider-

2011, he felt as though

Before his time at

had a modest research

ing she now has a PhD

Herty

began

lab. I have consistently

in virology. He feels as

tremely

teaching at a commu-

been inspired not only

nity college in which he

ex-

“As department chair, I

overcrowded,

led a committee that rep-

though this is a very re-

and there was a dire

resented my department

by the many students I

warding experience and

need

expansion.

in the planning,” Pillay

spent nine years dedicat-

taught in class, but espe-

one that he shared with

He and former chair

said. “I got very involved

ing his craft to students.

cially by students I men-

all his former students.

of chemistry and phys-

in all aspects of the de-

Pillay felt as though the

tored in my lab. That is

“I felt like a proud

ics Ken Mcgill opted

sign and planning, learn-

time he spent there was

still probably the most

parent and it’s a feeling

for a new building that

ing new things about

the best training ground

rewarding part of my job:

I am sure all the pro-

would suffice their need

mechanical, electric and

GCSU,

Pillay

Hall

for

was

plumbing. I also learned

tal Sciences for 14 years.

how expensive it can be

Pillay was asked by

to construct a new build-

Provost Roberts to step

ing during a pandemic.”

into this position tem-

Pillay is very grate-

porarily in January while

ful

a search was conducted

sor

position of Dean of the

feeling

es Center was proposed

easing

and developed by the

back to his former role

faculty in his depart-

chair.

ment, in which he mainly

With excitement for

served as a facilitator and

this new position also

lobbyst for the project.

comes bittersweet feel-

He

ings as he reflects on his love for teaching.

“I am very excited to

Saladin,

The Aquatic Scienc-

to last a short interim

department

the

nent and well-deserved.

ences. He expected this

as

named

this honor is perma-

College of Arts and Sci-

before

they

complex after Profes-

for the new permanent

period

new building in 2018.

Courtesy of Anna Leavitt

credits

profes-

sors Samuel Mutiti, Kris White, Matt Milnes and

for his professional role

the teaching and mento-

fessors at GCSU can

for room. They even

their colleagues for the

because of the great di-

ring of young minds.”

recognize,” Pillay said.

had the space picked

work they put in so that

his

Along with Pillay’s

out, which is the cur-

he could easily advocate

readiness of his students.

students who love the

large passion for teach-

rent location of the ISC

and negotiate with Pro-

colleagues,” Pillay said. “I

“It taught me how to

study of science and

ing students also came

building and formerly

vost Spirou for the estab-

was chair for almost 14

respond to students in-

those who continue to

his crucial role in lob-

a student parking lot.

lishment of the center.

years and hired a lot of

dividually and take the

pursue

re-

bying both the Sala-

Because former pres-

Pillay’s time so far at

my faculty, so that’s diffi-

time to encourage their

search upon graduation.

din Integrated Scienc-

ident Dorman was ex-

GCSU has been influ-

cult. Most significantly, I

success,”

es Complex

tremely

supportive,

ential for the college at

will miss teaching. This is

“When I came to GCSU

student

Lowrey

Aquatic Sciences Center.

they received support

large because of his ef-

the first time in 29 years

in 2011 as department

to campus to speak on

Upon his arrival in

to develop plans for the

forts and developments.

be in a position to support our faculty and students in the college but I miss my department

versity

and

academic

Pillay

said.

Pillay

admires

academic

Pillay invited former Shea

and the

Bird Flu cases on the rise: here’s what to know Lucy Nunez Staff Writer With the recent change of seasons, bird flu has hit another peak with cases among poultry, cattle and humans in the U.S. Bird flu is rare in humans, but can sometimes be spread through close contact with infected wild bird species, such as through consumption.

Symptoms in humans can include fever, cough, sore throat and muscle aches.

The bird flu virus can be fatal in poultry, cattle, and in rare cases, humans. In humans, 70 people have caught bird flu, with one death reported and many more cases on the rise.

“I have heard about the recent surge in bird flu cases,” said Sarah Crowder, a junior criminal justice major. “My family members live with poultry and have taken extreme caution by dressing fully covered and sprinkling food on the ground when interacting with them.”

With the recent and ongoing government shutdown, the United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health In-

spection Service is currently surveilling cases of bird flu through laboratory testing and human case monitoring.

While the current public health risk for humans is low, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is watching the situation care-

If an individual begins to show symptoms of bird flu, it is recommended that they immediately seek medical help. Then, they must be prepared for testing and a quarantine period.

The government continues to monitor wild birds, domestic ani-

loans, conservation payments, stalled economic and crop reports and certain regulatory programs. However, they will continue to maintain emergency response and food safety inspections.

The bird flu has infected millions of hens, causing an egg shortage, ulti-

ing for surveillance, enhancing biosecurity and aiding farmers.

“I shop at Publix and have noticed a recent upcharge in prices for a 12pack of eggs,” said Caitlin McGarvey, a senior mass communication major. “They are about $4.15 now, but know-

Egg cartons at a grocery store

fully and working with states to monitor people with animal exposures.

“It is important to take the correct safety measures to prevent a bird flu outbreak across humans,” said Helen Dupree, a Public Health professor at GCSU. “Always wash your hands and keep pets away from birds.”

mals and humans. It has created education programs and has responded to emergency cases and scientists at the USDA have researched medical approaches to prevent continuous bird flu outbreaks.

Farmers now face hardship as the USDA is suspending new farm

mately raising prices. The Trump Administration has a plan to decrease egg prices, which are high due to the fatality of poultry from this virus.

This administration has a strategy to deal with both the virus and high prices. The $1 billion plan includes importing eggs and fund-

ing the reason behind it does not surprise me.”

Bird flu has also affected cattle, and prices in milk, veterinary costs and biosecurity measures have significantly increased, affecting the public financially as well.

When cattle are affected by bird flu it reduces milk output and pro-

ducers experience direct losses from decreased milk volume and quality as well as indirect financial pressures, such as increased veterinary costs, biosecurity measures and labor shortages.

“I have heard that the USDA announced a financial assistance program to support dairy farmers with affected cattle, including compensation for a portion of lost milk production,” said Scott Butler, a Public Health professor.

Specifically, the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-raised Fish Program has been updated recently to provide financial relief for dairy farmers who lose milk production due to bird flu.

Regarding food safety, the USDA, Food Safety and Inspection Service and Food and Drug Administration are working to ensure the safety of consuming dairy and meat products through thorough inspections. It is reported that humans can only drink pasteurized milk and must make sure that eggs, meat and poultry are fully cooked to prevent infection.

4

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

11.11.2025

SPORTS RECAP

Continued from page 1 The Bobcats achieved some notable victories throughout the season.

After a semi-slow start

er, Mason, Abbey Eison,

Marchant said. “I want

the stats sheet, fans need

cat deserves a deeper

nis’ 485 digs leads the

Natalie Eydam, Bridget

the program to finish

to look deeper to see the

dive, as her senior year

Bobcats,

Johnson, Emma Dan-

in the top four every

talent of the 2025 GCSU

has been historic. On

Johnson with 169 and

ley and Sarah Charney.

year consistently. Now,

women’s volleyball team.

Oct. 21, in the Bobcats’

Weeks with 162. Carl-

Fuller

you’re hoping that you

Entering the 2025 sea-

four-set victory against

ton leads the Bobcats

led the Bobcays in goals

can maybe knock on the

son, the Bobcats brought

Coker University, she set

with 50 total blocks, with

during the season with

door to third or second.”

in five freshmen, who

the single-game GCSU

Nya Warren and Shep-

GCSU women’s vol-

have all been integral

record for most digs in

herd contributing 48.

parts of the women’s

a four-set game with 38.

volleyball team: Milla

She also creeps closer to

four final regular-sea-

Smith, Emmersyn Mull-

the individual career re-

son

vain, Kendra Leboehi, Ile

cord for GCSU for digs in

their appearance in the

Bernis and Avery Huyck.

a career, currently sitting

Peach Belt Conference

“We brought in a

at 1609, which is 13 away

Tournament. Their final

bunch of new freshmen

from Jordyn Moellering’s

non-conference contest

and transfers that all

record of 1622. She also

takes place on Thursday,

bring new strengths to

spent her final season as

Nov. 13, against Emman-

the team that we hadn’t

a Bobcat alongside her

uel University at 6 p.m.,

had before,” said Sa-

sister, Ile, on the squad

die Parkerson, a soph-

followed by a couple of

as a serving specialist.

omore on the wom-

matches against newly

Kaylee Weeks leads

team.

minted Peach Belt mem-

the Bobcats in kills for

On top of all the

ber Middle Georgia State

the season with 227, fol-

freshmen, the Bobcats

University

lowed by Huych with 208

honored

seniors

on Nov. 14 and Nov. 15.

and Carlton with 164,

during their five-set vic-

The Peach Belt Con-

even though she missed

tory over the University

ference Tournament is

some time. Johnson leads

currently scheduled to

Mason

and

to their season, they ex-

four each, followed by

ploded for a 4-0 win over

Fagerström and Mia Pa-

Valdosta State Univer-

lumbo, who had three

sity on Freshmen Tail-

apiece. Mason also led

gate Day on Sept. 11.

the assists category with

They

opened

their

four, while Järventaus

conference play for the

followed up with three as-

season with a 4-0 vic-

sists. Mason’s dominance

tory over Clayton State

in the stats category

leyball has also had anything but an unsuccessful season, bouncing back from an 8-21 record in the previous season and improving to an impressive 13-14 record overall. Coach Abigail King

en’s

volleyball

six

the Bobcats in assists with 333, followed by Parkerson with 235 and Lexi Baum with 175. Parkerson has also contributed Courtesy of Bree Hicken, GCSU Athletics

23 service aces, while

University, which led to

continued into the shots

Johnson has collected

an eight-game unbeat-

category as well, having

21 and Bernis has 17.

en streak capped off by

16 shots on goal, while

“My teammates have

Bakke and Fuller had

pushed me to be an even

nine shots on goal each.

better version of myself

their biggest win of the year, a 5-0 victory over Albany State University, which included a hattrick by graduate forward Ellie Fuller, earning her the Peach Belt Player of the Week award.

However, the Bobcats struggled entering the final stretch of the regular season, with losses to the ninth-ranked team,

the

University

of North Georgia, Columbus

State

Univer-

sity, Lander University

The

Bobcats

em-

this season, even bet-

The

followed

Bobcats matches

in

by

have before

Macon

begin on Nov. 21 and run until Nov. 23, with the

number-one-seed-

ed team in the conference, Flagler College.

“We’ve had numerous talks as a team about mindset, and we’ve made it our goal to put a good pressure on ourselves to beat the odds that were

ployed a tandem goalkeeping setup throughout the season, rotating between

sophomores

Kassidy Fortin and Ella Hayes, who each had a save percentage of .789 and .800, respectively.

Hayes was named PBC Goalkeeper of the Week earlier in the season.

The Bobcat women’s soccer team was once again anything but unsuccessful as they look

Austin Zschach, GCSU Athletics

has worked well to bring this

Bobcat

women’s

volleyball team towards the top in her three years with the program.

Courtesy of Bree Hicken, GCSU Athletics

As they do yearly, the

of South Carolina-Aik-

ter than last year, and

stacked against us from

Bobcats opened up with

en on Saturday, Nov.

it’s thanks to them that

the beginning of the

and a tie against Eckerd

to regroup for the offsea-

the Bobcat Classic, win-

8: Alanis Bernis, Cam-

I’ve achieved the goals

season,” Parkerson said.

College in their final

son, and Marchant pre-

ning three of their first

ryn Carlton, Madeline

that I placed for myself

“I’m confident in our

regular-season

contest.

pares to bring in recruits

four matches to open

Gilmartin, Riese John-

at the beginning of the

mindset just to defeat the

The Bobcats honored

for the 2026 season.

the season. While the

son, Lexi Polychrones

season,” Parkerson said.

odds and make Georgia

eight seniors during the

“The goal next year

sub-500 record is no-

and Hayley Shepherd.

2025 season: Duque, Full-

will be to finish fourth,”

ticeable when looking at

Bernis’s time as a Bob-

defensive

College a program that

side of the metrics, Ber-

people are scared of.”

On

the

Courtesy of Austin Zschach, GCSU Athletic Department

5

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

11.11.2025

SPORTS

NBA gambling scandal Benjamin Clark Sports Editor Federal

Authorities

with the FBI have thus far arrested 34 individuals in a continuing gambling investigation tied to the NBA. Notably, Chuancy Billups (current head coach for the Portland Trail Blazers) and Terry Rozier (Guard for the Miami Heat) are under investigation for accepting bets favored against their teams, then purposely

underper-

forming in those games.

Among these primary

allegations,

others

include the use of insider information, connections to organized crime/mafia, and money laundering

operations.

Fans are understandably

as well with the Shohei

In response to the

Otani scandal. They say

controversy, NBA Com-

it was the interpreter, but

missioner

it wasn’t the interpret-

ver has emphasized the

er; in my opinion, it was

league’s position on gam-

Otani. We’ve seen it with

bling: that it is a “car-

Michael Jordan, too, with

dinal sin” and should

him and gambling. So

not be overlooked or

now, especially with all

underpunished,

high-

the ads like with Prize-

lighting

per-

picks. It’s just shoving it in

manent suspension for

our face. It’s getting more

those found guilty, as

and

profound.”

reported by AP News.

when

Internally, the NBA

coaches and players bet

has issued a memo to

on opposing teams with

each and every team,

knowledge of internal

calling for a review of

team information, they

many reports relating

undermine the fairness

to the use of prop bets.

of the games and the

Such internal informa-

trust of fans. One intri-

tion includes reports on

cacy involved is the use

injury status for players

of prop bets, like players’

and the education/train-

stats or minutes. Gener-

ing of players against

ally, these markets are

in-league

more

Ultimately,

at a higher risk for ma-

Adam

possible

Sil-

gambling.

According

to

the

Benjamin Clark | Sports Editor

investigations to accu-

in the league’s current

come a key point of

rately pinpoint the source

approach

dealing

scrutiny in light of fed-

of the gambling scandal;

with gambling, mark-

eral indictments for cer-

however, the league’s in-

ing this recent con-

tain players. Many fans

ability to take legal action

troversy as a pivotal

question if the league’s

has left its investigative

moment for the NBA’s

investigations into gam-

measures more limited.

relationship with its fans.

bling

“They should pun-

“I think it’s really dis-

with the federal govern-

ish the parties responsi-

heartening when a player

ment and how previ-

ble (like the player and

bets on themself,” Golds-

ous investigations con-

coach),” said Harrison

tien said. “There are a lot

cluded differently from

Goldstien, a junior polit-

of people who enjoy the

federal

ical science major. “But

game, and realizing that a

Overall, the complex

I think they should re-

player has been gambling

nature of the situation,

to

have

interfered

nipulation from coach-

Sports Business Journal,

ing/administrative staff.

the NBA is now recon-

“I mean, with the con-

sidering its previously

sequences, they’re out of

mutually beneficial re-

their league,” Alfero said.

lationship

Sports-

implement their expec-

makes a lot of people

as well as the ambiguity

its players and coaches.

“Especially when the FBI

books, sites which allow

tations and policies, and

think the integrity of the

surrounding the inves-

“It’s affecting every

gets involved, this is just a

direct betting, prop bets

I don’t think it would

game is definitely hurt.”

tigation, creates mas-

sport, in my opinion,”

bad look for the NBA. If it

(through parleys) and

hurt

said Charles Alfero, a

gets this bad, they’re defi-

other kinds of gambling.

sophomore theater ma-

nitely going to make the

jor. “Especially baseball

punishment way worse.”

in uproar, as this investigation raises serious questions about the integrity of the game and the ethical behavior of

to

investigators.

lack

sive holes in reasoning

An earlier lack of dis-

of willingness to pun-

where fans and skeptics

So far, the league has

cipline within the NBA

ish players involved in

will likely fill in infor-

cooperated with federal

has shaken fans’ trust

gambling has also be-

mation where they can.

game-day operations and

til Aug. of 2023 that

volved,” Aquino said. “As

student-athlete

devel-

she made her return to

well as to be involved in

to

revisit

this.”

Bobcat Insider: Michelle Aquino

This

previous

Bryan Cade

sport yet,” Aquino said.

munication at GCSU.

Asst. Sports Editor

Gretchen Krumdieck

“It was cool to see the

became the Bobcats’ vol-

other side of athletics,”

opment, while also sup-

Milledgeville, this time

a way that we can en-

leyball program’s first

Aquino

“When

porting Athletics Direc-

as the Director of Annual

hance the student ath-

you’re a student athlete,

tor Wendell Staton with

Giving & Digital Engage-

lete experience, still for

you walk in, and your

various projects within

jerseys are hanging up,

the athletic department.

all the buses are ready

Aquino spent a hand-

to go, your hotels are

ful of years at both Bel-

booked, everything is

mont

there for you. But when

as an Assistant Athlet-

Michelle Aquino may be the voice behind every Georgia College & State University women’s volleyball broadcast; however, her story of how she became a voice of the Bobcats is a long and winding road, tracing back to her playing days.

Before her stint at Davidson College in North Carolina, she competed for TOPSELECT Volleyball Academy, was later named the MVP for the 2011 season and was selected to the All-Star South team. Aquino was called to a multitude of athletic and academic teams and awards even before her time as a Wild-

head coach, spending nine years in Milledgeville and helped GCSU set multiple firsts in program history, such as an appearance in the Peach Belt Conference Tournament.

Howev-

said.

Abbey

College

ment, and made her first appearance on a women’s volleyball broadcast.

“There was an opportunity, the broadcaster at the time was on maternity leave, and so I

student

athletes.

It comes full circle for me, in a way, that even though I’m no longer directly working in athletics, it still provides me with an opportunity to

er, before her time as

was just kind of helping

a

Krumdieck

Wendell out, and it re-

served as the assistant

ally surprised me how

coach for Davidson Col-

much I enjoyed it,” Aqui-

lege’s volleyball squad.

no said. “Being able to

Aquino’s goal is to teach

“She had actually re-

be around the sport and

someone one new thing

cruited me to play at

just being able to bring

about volleyball, using

Davidson, and then she

the sport to other fans,

the GCSU broadcast as

left Davidson to come

family members and par-

a platform to expand

start the volleyball pro-

ents who are watching it.”

and promote the game

Aquino

Besides her time on

to people who may not

said. “That was kind of

air for the Bobcat wom-

the best decision I ever

en’s volleyball team, she’s

be familiar with all the

Bobcat,

gram

here,”

made, coming to Milled-

working for the GCSU

cat at Davidson College.

geville and still be able

Foundation, helping the

Aquino’s junior year

to be around the sport

Bobcats’ athletic depart-

in 2014 was her best in

because of the great stu-

ment fundraise non-prof-

her

career,

dent athlete experience.”

itly, and working with

playing in 82 sets and ac-

Following her time at

cumulating 120 kills, 47

Davidson College, where

digs and an impressive

she earned her Bache-

51 blocks. The opposite

lor’s Degree in Biology,

hitter also collected sev-

Aquino

en aces in her 2014 stint.

an assistant volleyball

“When I ended my

coach, assisting Krum-

collegiate

the

later

became

Bryan Cade | Assistant Sports Editor

I moved to the coach’s

ic Director and Senior

side, it showed me all

Woman

the

behind-the-scenes

and the University of

stuff

that

on.”

North Georgia as an As-

Following that, she

of athletic state of giving. Aquino assisted with the Bobcats’ alumni days and the recent Hall of

our

student

athletes.”

With every broadcast,

different rules and characteristics of the sport.

“I know how proud these parents must be to be able to turn on their TVs and watch their daughters play at a high level,” Aquino said. “To bring them that experience and hopefully be a

Fame induction, as well

voice of comfort. Being

sociate Athletic Direc-

as other past events, in-

able to bring that broad-

became a graduate as-

tor, Business and Senior

cluding the Bobcat Bash.

cast to those who aren’t

with

Woman Administrator.

“It’s a really fun way

able to make it here in

compliance,

It would not be un-

for me to still be in-

the gym means a lot.”

time playing there after

dieck

while

four years, I wasn’t neces-

ing

post-baccalaureate

sistant,

sarily ready to give up the

courses in mass com-

NCAA

complet-

goes

Administrator

everything in the realm

help serve and promote

assisting

6

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

11.11.2025

ARTS & LIFE Petting Zoo Continued from page 1 The animals were brought by the Wildlife Critters Circle of Life Rehabilitation Center, a sanctuary in Shady Dale dedicated to rescuing animals in need.

According to the center’s website, “Our mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, and release injured and orphaned native mammals, reptiles, and birds back to their wild habitats. Those that are not able to be released join our education ministry allowing children in the community an opportunity to experience the love, affection and responsibility we have to care for God’s creations.”

While some animals may not be able to return to the wild, they continue to make a difference by offering students hands-on interactions with species they would typically only encounter in a zoo.

“People can see the real animal besides looking on a TV, and they can have a real experience with animals,” said Hoa Ngo, a senior finance major.

Beyond meeting the animals, the petting zoo gave students a chance to enjoy being together and making memories with both furry and human friends.

Bella McComis | Digital Media Editor

“I think it really just brings a bunch of people together. People love it, and I also think it’s therapeutic for other people as well,” O’Brien said.

Amid the stresses of midterms and the upcoming finals, spending time outside and engaging with na-

STRANGER THINGS:

GCSU’s thoughts on upcoming season finale release Sydney Williams Asst. A&L Editor As Netflix’s hit series “Stranger Things” prepares to return for its fifth and final season, excitement is growing among GCSU students who have followed the show since its 2016 debut. After nearly a decade, this upcoming season marks the end of an era for one of Netflix’s most iconic series.

The sci-fi drama, created by the Duffer Brothers, became a fan favorite through its mix of horror, humor and 1980s nostalgia. Set in the small town of Hawkins, Indiana, “Stranger Things” follows a group of kids who uncover a hidden world known as the Upside Down. Over the years, viewers have seen the characters mature and the storyline grow darker and more complex each season.

For many GCSU students, the final season brings both anticipation and nostalgia.

“I was excited but sad that it’s the end,” said Della Goines, a senior mass communications major. “I feel like ‘Stranger Things’ has been a constant in my life for the past ten years.”

Season four of the show was released in the summer of 2022. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2023 SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists) strike, filming was delayed and caused the final season to be released in 2025.

“I think the wait has made fans more excited about the new season,” said Caitlyn Samples, a freshman exercise science major.

Netflix has also announced that the last season will be divided into three parts, a strategy that has mixed reactions among fans.

“I don’t love the threepart release, but I understand why they do it.”

Goines said. “I honestly would have preferred a weekly release because

ture allowed students a moment to breathe and remember there’s more to college life than just coursework.

“Maybe they just came from a test that they didn’t do so good on, so I hope as they’re walking away, they feel the weight lifted off after they have petted some animals,” Goodelman said.

A favorite tradition on campus, the event invites students to connect with each other while engaging with wildlife. Even those who are not particularly fond of animals found joy simply because it was an activity they could do with their friends.

“I’m not a big fan of animals, but I come for the fellowship,” Ngo explained.

While she preferred to admire them from a distance, Ngo admitted she enjoyed meeting a few of the wildlife.

“I think the rabbits are the cutest here,” Ngo said.

As the event came to a close, students lingered to take a few last photos and say goodbye to their new fourlegged friends. The laughter and smiles

inely don’t remember what happened in the past season, but I feel like most audiences won’t put in that effort,” The finale premiere will also be available in theaters on Dec. 31, giving fans the chance to watch it on the big screen.

On Tadum (Netflix’s official site), the Duffer brothers said, “We’re beyond excited that fans will have the chance to experience the final episode of “Stranger Things” in theaters.

Getting to see it on the big screen, with incredible sound, picture, and a room full of fans, feels like the perfect — dare we say bitchin’ — way to celebrate the end of this adventure.”

For many students, the combination of rewatching old episodes, discussing plot theories, favorite characters and potential outcomes has helped build anticipation and community around the series.

As the countdown continues, fans are not just waiting for answers to the story, they are preparing to celebrate the end of an era together.

Whether watching at home, in a dorm room, with friends and family or in theaters, the final season of “Stranger Things” is set to be an event that brings the Hawkins adventure to a memorable close for viewers at GCSU and around the world.

monetary-donations.html or view the center’s Amazon Wishlist at https:// w w w. a m a z o n . c o m / h z / w i s h l i s t / ls/25C1GUQHS0BST?ref_=wl_share.

GCSU reflects on the importance of ethical culture during Ethics Awareness Week Staff Writer

it builds more suspense and community, similar to how this summer’s craze with “The Summer I Turned Pretty” did with its release schedule,” Volume One will be released on Nov. 26, Thanksgiving, containing four episodes. Volume Two will be released on Dec. 25, Christmas, containing three episodes. The series finale will be released on Dec. 31, New Year’s, with one final episode.

“I’m planning on watching the episodes right when they come out for each release date,” Samples said.

Actor Gaten Matarazzo, known for his role as Dustin, gave his input on the release schedule to SFX magazine.

“I’m glad they’re parcelling it up over the course of several release dates. I think that’ll bring a sense of engagement to the show over time that we don’t really see a whole lot of in the streaming era. I miss when there were weekly Game of Thrones and weekly Breaking Bads and engagement online and talking with friends about what’s happening, and watch parties.”

Students at GCSU have been rewatching past seasons to prepare for the finale and refresh their memories.

“I think the long wait impacted viewership.”

Goines said. “I’m rewatching the show right now because I genu-

Bella McComis | Digital Media Editor

USG ETHICS WEEK Jane Carr

Julia Jensen| Art Director

across the green made clear that the event had achieved its purpose, creating a time of calm, connection and joy.

As a nonprofit organization, the center relies on donations to provide for its animals and continue its educational outreach. To contribute, visit http://www.wlcritters.com/

GCSU joined the University System of Georgia in celebrating Ethics Awareness Week from Nov. 3 to 7, highlighting the importance of integrity, accountability, respect and excellence in campus life. Through educational activities, sustainability challenges and community discussions, the week encouraged students, faculty and staff to reflect on what it means to live and learn ethically.

According to the Georgia College website, “Ethics Awareness Week is sponsored by the USG each year to reinforce our collective commitment to an ethical culture and our shared values and expectations.

GCSU, along with the other 25

tive year, approaching each celebration from a new perspective.

“I have been the coordinator for GCSU’s Ethics Awareness Week activities for three years, and each year I try to approach ethical awareness from a different perspective,” Fowler said. “Ethics is a broad topic that touches many aspects of our lives, from personal to professional, and private to public. Our students continually face ethical choices in academic, social and civic settings.”

One of the week’s most talked-about events was the Food Waste Challenge, which asked students to think about sustainability and responsibility through a simple but eye-opening activity.

“For example, this week we are promoting sustainable actions through the Food Waste

Bella McComis| Digital Media Editor

USG institutions and the University System Office, hosts activities throughout the week to raise awareness of the importance of an ethical culture and our shared Core Values: Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect.”

At GCSU, those values came to life through hands-on events that connected ethical reflection to everyday choices. Rhonda Fowler, GCSU’s chief audit officer, coordinated the week’s activities for the third consecu-

Challenge by raising awareness about the quantity of food collected in the dish return at the MAX in 24 hours,” Fowler said. “While students may have noticed leftovers on individual plates, they might not have considered the total amount or what happens to the waste. We are fortunate to have volunteers with the Office of Sustainability who process this organic material into valuable compost for our West Campus Garden.”

Faculty and staff were also invited to participate through a campus shred

event and leadership presentations, which emphasized accountability and transparency in professional settings.

“For our faculty and staff, we encourage responsible accountability through essential practices, such as the campus shred event,” Fowler said.

“Leadership and compliance presentations offer valuable learning opportunities to highlight the importance of integrity.”

Fowler explained that while Ethics Awareness Week highlights ethical living for a few days each November, its lessons are meant to last beyond the week itself.

“It is our goal, through Ethics Awareness Week, to empower students to embrace an ethical culture and create an environment at GCSU that embodies our values of integrity, excellence, accountability and respect,” Fowler said.

“Our message this week is that every choice, every day, everywhere, is an opportunity to shape culture and continue to show why ‘It’s Different Here’ at GCSU.” Jim Winchester, professor of philosophy and coordinator of the philosophy program, said the week also offered a chance to talk about ethics in a deeper sense, beyond compliance or policy and into personal conviction.

“Being ethical is often not easy,” Winchester said. “It can be challenging to do the right thing.

Sometimes it seems that so many are merely pursuing their own interests. At these times, it is good to think about people like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks, who fought for a better world for everyone.”

From composting projects to community reflection, GCSU’s Ethics Awareness Week reminded the campus that ethical culture is not a single event. It is an ongoing practice that defines the university’s character and values.

7

RYLEE HOLLAND, MANAGING EDITOR MARY CIUCEVICH, EDITOR IN CHIEF

11.11.2025

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.

“Milledgeville Mourning”

by M.N. Creekmore The window blurs out the Milledgeville morning, Licked by the cold tongue of Milledgeville’s mourning, Wet and dreary with summer’s parting, Frosted over with stormy scorning.

Hoods block out the sky’s grey moaning, Drawstrings tight and pockets groaning, Gloves and hats, mothball-smelling, Swallow students with unloved loving.

Signs of fall in nature

Pavement stains with tears of ascension, Like a thousand hopes and dreams cashing in their pension Till feet, and feet, and feet, and feet, Pound out new wishes in the hints of sleet.

Ice cold bums on frosty damp seats, Spelling and yelling out for a detour street Down springy lanes with warmer greets, With air smelling thick and fresh and sweet.

The window blurs out the Milledgeville mourning, As cold harks warm-blooded Milledgeville’s morning.

A reminder from the Editor in Chief courtesy of the editorial board

November is here, and December is approaching. Remember to stop and take a breath. The days are darker quicker and the weather is colder. Although the end of the semester is coming and finals are right around the corner, remember that school work is not your only priority, and should not be. Take time for yourself, reflect on your needs. Your well being is the most important thing to succeed. While life can seem bleak sometimes that does not mean you should give up. Believe in yourself, confide in friends, talk to strangers. Every student is scared, nervous, or even excited for the end of semester, let’s talk about it.

Interested in submitting?

Follow our instgram @thecolonnade or scan the QR code below