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Former White House Physician Dr. Connie Mariano Visits Stevens by ELINA TUDER Staff Writer
West Indian Potluck • P7
Founder’s Day Ball • P8-9
Leo’s Grandevous • P10
On Feb. 26, 2018, Stevens hosted retired Rear Admiral of the U.S. Navy and former White House physician Dr. Connie Mariano as a speaker for the Provost’s Lecture Series on Women in Leadership. Dr. Mariano was born on a Naval Base in the Philippines and arrived in the U.S. at the age of two. While her family was not wealthy, Dr. Mariano worked extremely hard and went on to graduate as valedictorian of her high school and receive cum laude honors alongside her Biology degree from the University of California, San Diego’s Revelle College. She was then able to attend medical school at the Uniformed Services University School of Medicine through the Navy, consequently binding her to a ten-year military contract. At the conclusion of her ten-year commitment, Dr. Mariano was ready to fill out a release form and begin to lead a more relaxing lifestyle, but her decision was interrupted by a phone call
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from her boss. Dr. Mariano’s boss wanted to nominate her, as well as four men, for the position of Physician to the President of the United States, to represent the U.S. Navy. After mulling over the decision, Dr. Mariano decided to not sign the release and instead apply for the job. Consequently, she traveled to Washington, D.C. in December of 1991 for the interview. She recalls the moments before her interview as nervewracking, overhearing her interviewer—former White House physician Dr. Burton J. Lee III—shouting just mo-
ments before she entered the room. As a mother of two, Dr. Mariano could not help but notice a tan bandaid across his forehead, the very same remedy she would apply to the “booboos” of her children. The familiarity of the situation served as a “sign,” and she entered Dr. Lee’s office with newfound confidence. Dr. Lee asked her the very question that plagues all interviewees alike—why do you want the position? Dr. Mariano recalls that she spoke as “her true self,” and explained to Dr. Lee that she was interested in the po-
sition in order to pay back the country for supporting her family and putting her through school, and she thought that “there was no better way to do that than by serving the Commander in Chief.” Dr. Mariano also went on to say that she was confident in her skills as a doctor, noting her adaptability as a “trench doctor, not a desk doctor.” Ultimately, Dr. Mariano’s interview was cut short, as Dr. Lee told her that regardless of who else remained to be interviewed, Dr. Mariano secured the
see MARIANO • Page 6
Music and Visual Arts & College Republicans bring Dr. Technology departments host Arthur Laffer to Stevens first Instrument-a-Thon by MARK KRUPINSKI Business Manager
by AUDREY DSOUZA Managing Editor
The first annual Instrument-A-Thon, hosted by the Music and Visual Arts and Technology programs at Stevens, took place on Saturday, Feb. 24. About 30 high school students, undergrads, and grad students participated in the eighthour musical instrument building hackathon, creating projects ranging from electric guitars out of raw wood to PVC pipe marimbas to amplified kazoo-controlled balloon inflation. All students were given the challenge to build a new instrument from scratch during the event. All participants were given free breakfast, coffee, and pizza lunch, as well as access to the department’s Wood Shop and Fab Lab (which contains a laser cutter, 3D printer, and vinyl plotter), to ensure that they were both motivated and equipped to bring their ideas to life. The event was inspired when Visual Arts and Technology professor Jeff Thompson and Music and Technology professors Lainie Fefferman and Seth Cluett “wanted a day to work
Photo courtesy of Lainie Fefferman
on [their] own instrument ideas,” according to Fefferman. “We wanted to share that day with others in a spirit of jolly communal workshopping.” Most students worked in groups of two or three, and at the end of the day, there was a group jam session for everyone to show off their new creations. Nokia Bell Labs funded the purchase of the kits that were handed out to each participant
with materials ranging from kazoos and balloons to contact microphones and miniature speaker cones. Students interested in the Visual Arts or Music and Technology programs at Stevens should contact any of the professors involved with this event. Professor Fefferman says they hope to have the event every year, and to “tune in next year for new plans and surprises!”
On March 1, 2018, College Republicans, co-hosted with Phi Beta Lambda and the Society of Women in Business, presented Trumponomics: The Road to Riches or Ruins? featuring Dr. Arthur Laffer, an esteemed economic advisor during the Reagan administration and creator of the Laffer Curve. College Republicans were able to bring Dr. Laffer due to a partnership with the Young American Foundation. Prior to the event, Dr. Laffer spent the day networking at Stevens. Dr. Laffer started the day by having lunch with multiple professors in the School of Business, including Dr. Richard Anderson and Dr. Alexander Rodivilov. Afterwards, he talked in Dr. Anderson’s Microeconomics class before the Trumponomics event. Danny Polk, President of College Republicans, opened the talk. He stated that College Republicans was founded to provide “a voice and platform for conservative principles,” including the free market and free speech on college campuses. Polk stated he first thought of bringing Dr. Laffer to Stevens at a Young Ameri-
cans Conference over the summer. Polk thought he would be a great fit to talk at Stevens due to recent tax cuts by the Trump administration. Dr. Laffer started the talk by making a joke about his short height and proclaiming how great Stevens is due to the view. He then opened the talk with an analogy. The government taxes speeders to stop people from speeding while driving. However, the government still taxes corporations for making a profit, which Dr. Laffer stated is discouraging to the economy. He then shared his story of moving from San Diego to Tennessee. He moved 13 years ago in order to pay fewer taxes, as Tennessee has one of lowest tax rates in the nation. He stated that when he talked at Harvard, none of them realized why he moved. He explained that economics is about incentives. Despite moving, he said he missed California and enjoyed serving as an economic policy adviser to Arnold Schwarzenegger. Even though he enjoyed being policy adviser, he stated that Schwarzenegger was a lousy governor, and he has many entertaining stories about him. Afterwards, he talked about his recent analysis of states that have a state income tax and those
that do not. According to him, states that adopted an income tax declined in all econometrics in the years after. He then mentioned Michigan, a state that used to be the pinnacle of the nation that has declined sharply in GDP, Gross Domestic Product, relative the rest of the nation. Detroit used to be “the Paris of North America” but is now an unpopular place to visit. Dr. Art Laffer then talked about how to properly measure an economy. He said that in order to adjust price, populations, and other factors, the Real Gross Domestic Product per adult should be used. He then used this measure to compare the economy during different times in U.S. history. He stated that when tax cuts were introduced during the Kennedy and Reagan administrations, the economy flourished according to his given metric. Based on this, he believes the economy will flourish after the recent tax cuts from the Trump administration. After his talk, there was a question and answer session with the audience. Questions ranged from topics such as Trump’s tax plan to Bernie Sanders. Danny Polk thanked everyone for attending and invited anyone interested for a photo-op with Dr. Laffer.
STUTE THE
Opinion The Stute Editorial
Treat yo’ self
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Today, it was brought to my attention that I let classes, and the fact that I’m not doing as well as I feel I should be in them, get to me and bring me down. I’m sure I’m not the only one. So for those of you who are tired of classes discouraging you, and not knowing how much more effort you can possibly put in, I say: “treat yo’ self.” People are going to tell you, “don’t let it get to you,” or they’re going to try to tell you that everything will be fine. It’s not that you don’t know that everything will be fine, but right now you feel like you want to scream. Of course, you know that
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Corrections & Clarifications
For corrections and clarifications regarding any of our issues, please email eboard@thestute.com ! + The text from Mind of a Freshman was actually from Senioritis
end up procrastinating, and wasting so much time instead. So instead, do something for yourself. Whether it’s indulging in sweets, or splurging on something you wanted (just be smart in your splurges), you will feel motivated and driven again. If you feel good, your work will be better. In fact, a new study conducted by the Social Market Foundation and the University of Warwick’s Centre for Competitive Advantage in the Global Economy, which is located in Great Britain, showed evidence that happier employees were more productive in the workplace. According to Fortune, “The experiment
showed that productivity increased by an average of 12%, and reached as high as 20% above the control group.” Now 12% may not sound like a lot, but Dr. Daniel Sgroi, the author of the report, stated that in regards to GDP and economic growth, “rises of 3% or so are considered very large.” So you heard the facts, now go and treat yo’ self!
Maryia Spirydonava Editor-in-Chief
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others have it harder and that you’re going to get through this, but right now you want to complain and things don’t seem fair. So instead of trying to pretend like these things don’t “get to you,” do something that will make you feel better (I find that desserts help). Sometimes, you need to put all that work on pause and go grab a coffee or catch up on a TV show. Believe me, the work will be there when you’re ready to get back to it, and, if anything, the amount might even grow. But if you are feeling defeated and drained, you aren’t going to want to do your work. You’re going to
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by OLIVIA SCHREIBER Senior Chemical Biology Major
This past Monday, our campus was graced with the presence of Dr. Connie Mariano, a woman of many firsts. Not only was she the first military woman to become the White House physician to the President, but she was the first woman director of the White House Medical Unit, and the first Filipino-American in U.S. history to become a Navy rear admiral. It was a privilege to hear her talk about her journey, just as much as it was an honor to sit with her in a more intimate setting earlier in the day at the Lore-El Center for a pre-lecture lunch. She has earned her prominence in the medical, political, and social arenas, and serves as an inspir-
ing figure for women and women minorities who continue to work diligently for leadership positions in all disciplines. Not all of us will achieve positions of such prestige as Dr. Mariano—there are far too many people in the world for a limited number of high-power positions. I have my role models and female crushes to whom I’ve looked for motivation, especially in my formative years. They include Rosalind Franklin, Susan B. Anthony, and Marie Curie. These women continue to live on, immortalized in our textbooks and Women’s History Month celebrations. These women have been the North Star for me, guiding me in moments of self-doubt. But like stars—millions of light years of away—they remain physically unreachable representations of the past providing illumination in dark moments. So while I praise Rosalind, Susan, and Marie for their steadfastness, intelligence, and commitment to science, I sing a softer, more practical song of praise to the women with whom I converse with on a regular basis. But
as I sat in Burchard 118 listening to Dr. Mariano talk of her mentors, I realized that the mentormentee relationship, like all relationships, should serve as a two-way street. My whispers of praise should crescendo into audible words of respect. A powerful woman on Stevens’ campus has thrown countless opportunities to me over the past two years. Unbeknownst to her, I fear her deeply, not because of her temperament—she is sincere and has this great way of swearing so tastefully—but for her commitment to her position. She offered much-needed advice while I served as Chair of the Honor Board, treated me as an equal in her office, and continues to serve as an advocate for me and my peers. Doesn’t this all seem one-sided to you? This female figure in my life has done so much for me, and sometimes my simple thank yous or brief emails of appreciation seem inadequate when juxtaposed with her actions that have always benefitted me in the end. As students, perhaps we are too intimidated to pay
our respects to our more experienced advocates… am I allowed to offer my judgment, even if it be positive and sincere?I think it is time that this idea of mentorship be redefined as a relationship, one that needs to be nurtured and maintained by both parties. While age, rank, or background might serve as impermeable boundaries for some things, gratitude is one quality that remains potent enough to strength any bond. To all of the strong, diligent women on Stevens’ campus who have shifted my course or paved a new road (shout out to all my Civil engineering friends), I thank you for who you are and the example by which you lead. To that one woman who has helped me and so many others while keeping Student Life alive and vibrant (with a beautiful singing voice, might I add), you’ve made me a proud Stevens woman. While the women of the past have lit the way from afar, you serve as a corporal GPS, suggesting alternate routes and a different perspective as I navigate unchartered ground.
Mind of a Freshman
The One About Reign
by MARY RUANE
Freshman Business and Technology Major
For about the past month, I have been sick almost every week, which has meant a lot of sleeping and resting for me. With all this resting and a nice television in my dorm, I have been able to start a couple of shows, which I think are super cool. One of these shows is about Mary
Queen of Scots and though she is not my namesake, I have found myself slowly becoming a fan of the young queen. This would all be amazing, fun news if my mother was not a graduated history major with a particular love for European history. So, in tribute to her, for this week’s article I have decided to pick apart a couple of the historical inaccuracies in Reign. Be wary as there may be a couple of spoilers ahead and if you do not plan to watch the show, stay around for a little bit of a history lesson. The first and most entertaining historical inaccuracy in Reign is the existence of Sebastian. In the show, Sebastian is the Dauphin of France’s half-brother and the illegitimate son of
King Henry II. Historically, King Henry II’s mistress, Diane de Poitiers never had a son named Sebastian. Without Sebastian, a lot of drama in Reign could have been avoided which calls for the inspection of many of the events in the show. But what would a CW show be without drama? The next is Mary’s ladies in waiting. In a historical context, all of Mary’s ladies were named Mary as well, none of them had an affair with King Henry II, and none of them had a son with Mary’s first husband. In the show, they are named Aylee, Lola, Greer, and Kenna. When Queen Mary was ruling Scotland, Mary was a very common name amongst women. To avoid confu-
sion, the show changed the names of the girls. My personal favorite inaccuracy in Reign is the show’s handling of Mary’s execution. In the Mary elegantly takes her death. She is seen being graceful about the situation. It is said that during the real execution of Queen Mary, she made a fuss. She was angry with the people and refused the console of a Protestant priest. Now, this show may not be particularly accurate, but it is very entertaining. It’s easy to watch and understand what’s going on even if you miss something. It is definitely a show I would recommend as long as you remain wary and do not take the show for fact. I hope you have a nice weekend!
Friday, March 2, 2018 • Page 3
Girl Talk
Women of Wakanda: The Radical Feminism of Black Panther
by NAMANKITA RANA
Junior Engineering Management Major
Disclaimer: Obviously, spoilers for Marvel’s recent release Black Panther. But if you’re reading this, it’s been over two weeks… wyd?!?! I speak for a lot of people when I say that Black Panther was a movie I’d been looking forward to for the better half of almost two years. Ever since the character’s introduction in Captain America: Civil War back in 2016, I was sold. Charismatic, cool, and collected, Chadwick Boseman’s portrayal of T’Challa was a fascinating amalgamation of badassery and sheer mystery. I expected his first solo outing in the MCU to be nothing short of a blockbuster. Recent box office updates have shown that Black Panther is headed to do just that, with domestic collections as of this Tuesday clocking in at $411.7 million, crushing the records of both Civil War and Iron Man 3. What I did not expect from the movie, however, was the way in which it utilizes its female characters. In a sharp feminist turn, the
women of Wakanda are allowed to be brilliant, beautiful and, above all, unapologetically badass. Unlike other movies that sideline its heroines, director Ryan Coogler ensues that the women of Black Panther are front and center. In fact, for most of the movie, they often steal the show. Let’s be clear -- the Black Panther is undoubtedly the hero of the film, but it’s the women around him who ensure that he succeeds. They take up very different, very powerful roles, including the mantle of warrior, scientist, spy, and queen. In Wakanda, there are no meek and mild women waiting to be saved by their king. Instead, they are equal partners in the stakes of the nation and the fight to protect it. And these characters don’t just serve as foils to the king -- they have their own unique character arcs that meaningfully develop and shift over the course of the film. Nakia, a highly trained Wakandan spy and the king’s former flame, struggles between her love for T’Challa and her stubborn belief that Wakanda, as a nation, should be doing more to help ease the suffering of the world around them. Queen Ramonda, T’Challa’s mother, provides counsel to her son as he grapples with his responsibility as King, and is very clearly the film’s emotional center and source of wisdom. Meanwhile, Okoye, the leader of the Dora Milaje, finds her loyalty to
her nation tested when a bloodthirsty outsider takes the throne and threatens to redefine Wakanda’s legacy for good. The scene where her lover W’Kabi asks her, Would you kill me my love? and she responds simply For Wakanda? Without a question! still gives me chills when I think about it. Speaking of Wakanda, I must say that there is something incredibly beautiful about seeing an African nation free from the sins of colonialism on screen. The success of Wakanda’s women, the way in which they are treated as equals and allowed to reach their fullest potential in society, shows what could have been, what should have been -- which, in turn, only makes the true reality of the world so bittersweet. I could wax poetic about the brilliant women of Wakanda for hours if you’d let me, but there’s one
character who stole my heart and is really worth babbling on about: Shuri, the teenaged sister of King T’Challa. Described by director Ryan Coogler as the smartest person in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (yes, smarter than even Tony Stark and Bruce Banner), the sixteen-year-old princess is the brains behind all of Wakanda’s futuristic technology. As many critics have noted, her technological prowess puts Bond’s Q to shame, but she is also allowed to have impeccable style, impeccable comedic chops, and some of the best lines in the film. What’s most personally exciting for me about her character, however, is the far-reaching implications that she will so clearly have for young girls interested in STEM. She has had the unique privilege of being brought up in a society that is smart enough to see her
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for her brilliance and not her gender. The fact that she is a woman of color in STEM - a rarity, in today’s world - is given no special attention in the film. That’s the way it should be if we want to lay the seeds for a technological future that’s even a fraction as evolved as Wakanda ‘s. But until that future arrives, it’s heartening to know that young girls, rather than shying away from their interests in science, engineering, and math will instead be able to embrace them wholeheartedly thanks to the positive influence of Princess Shuri. The other point I’d like to touch on before signing off is this: the film makes it clear that T’Challa owes much of his strength of character to the influence of the women around him, making him arguably the most well-adjusted Marvel protagonist on screen at
the moment. He is shown to have several meaningful relationships with women, all of which are based on mutual respect, trust, and admiration. He is never rude, disrespectful, or condescending to any of the women in his inner circle. In fact, more than once, T’Challa is actually shown to be outnumbered by women. And still, at no point does he make any sort of casuallysexist quip about it, pull an alpha-male move, or give any indication of discomfort. It is clear that for him, being surrounded and even outnumbered by women is, in fact, a perfectly normal situation. He never belittles them, but rather, treats the women around him like his equals. So when T’Challa does face a critical crisis of belief regarding his father, it is with the support of the women in his life that he veers away from the usual traps of toxic masculinity. He does not make pointless emotional detours, binge-drinking like Tony Stark or hitting them out of a punching bag like Steve Rogers. Instead, he has the inner strength and self-awareness to deal with his feelings head-on. It’s that unique wisdom that elevates him over his opponent when the final showdown happens. It makes him both a good man and a great king. And at the end of the day, over high tech suits or incredible strength -- perhaps that’s the greatest superpower of all.
The Stute Music Review
New Release Drought: Let’s Talk About Pop Music
by CHRISTIAN BONAVITA Freshman Chemical Engineering Major
Recently, it’s been quite difficult to find exciting music news. There have been no defining social moments in music so far in 2018, except for the Grammys, which saw Kendrick Lamar robbed yet again in the Album of the Year category, and saw disappointing yields for Lorde’s Melodrama and SZA’s Ctrl. The new release radar has also been quite stale; it’s obvious that music fans are devoid of new music when weeks pass by and the only albums to touch the iTunes top 5 have been movie soundtracks (The Greatest Showman and Black Panther) and albums from early-mid 2017 (Imagine Dragons’ Evolve and Ed Sheeran’s
Divide). It always seems like popular artists are afraid to release music early in the year; bigger sales figures come in the fall months preceding the holiday sales boom, while smaller artists likely to play multiple music festivals often release music in the spring, just before the festival season. Even with these factors considered, I still feel as if I’m in some desperate-for-a-newrelease-limbo, and this cloudy northeast weather is doing nothing to help my mood. So, in the absence of exciting news on the horizon, I’ve decided to share my thoughts on a topic I think about constantly: pop music, more specifically, its gradual decline, its weakening
image, and the disappearance of the female pop star. Then, I’ll give some recommendations on some of my favorite pop artists that I think deserve a wider audience. We live during a pivotal moment in the world of music. For the first time in history, genres of R&B and hip-hop are dominating the music industry. A look at the Spotify streaming charts reveals the shocking disparity; throughout the last year, the top 10 has rarely been without the presence of 7 or 8 R&B/rap songs. While earlier in this decade, releases from pop stars like Lady Gaga and Katy Perry would cause conversation and chart domination for weeks, 2017 was horri-
Pale Waves | Coup de Main Magazine
bly lacking in a lasting pop release. Albums from the top artists came and went, landing at #1 due to first week sales, but then tanked the following weeks in streaming and sales. Examples of this: Katy Perry’s Witness, Lady Gaga’s Joanne, Lana Del Rey’s Lust for Life. Even Lorde’s critically acclaimed Melodrama didn’t last, while the juggernaut sales of Taylor Swift failed to create a hit from Reputation. Even when a single from a pop artist did find radio success last year, it would often verge on feeling “overplayed” in a matter of a few weeks. Meanwhile, R&B/hip-hop artists like SZA, Kendrick, and Post Malone found lasting success, hovering in the top 10, largely without top 40 radio at their side. This is truly a remarkable time in music, where the radio is no longer dictating the music conversation, and music fans can use streaming platforms and social media to discover new artists. While the emergence of R&B and hip-hop is quite exciting for a chart watcher like me, it is clear that a stigma is developing against the most mainstream, lowest common
denominator pop artists, a stigma that harms quality pop newcomers. Let’s face it – some pop music just does not deserve its popularity. With lyric readinglevels approaching that of a second-grade student (according to a mic.com article), and enough Auto-Tune to raise a generation of people with trust issues, the average pop song often succumbs to a boring formula that results in a rather aggravating top 40 radio listening experience. Even some pop listeners don’t respect their devotion to the genre; when asking others about their music tastes, I’m often apologized to by people who listen to pop music. “Sorry, I really only listen to what’s on the radio.” There’s no problem with liking pop music! If you look hard enough, it is just as complex and diverse a genre as any other. So, here are some of my suggestions for artists that are keeping the pop genre alive by making interesting music that they love: Pale Waves This dreamy, alternative-pop music band just released their ALL THE THINGS I NEVER SAID EP and is perfect for fans
Elle Watson | Vice
of everything from The 1975 to Troye Sivan. Elle Watson One of my favorite new artists, Elle Watson releases dark, reflective, electronically-influenced pop anchored by a mesmerizing voice and stellar music videos. Although her social media presence is tiny and she has released only 5 songs, I am confident that she should become a prominent pop artist. Eliza Eliza enjoyed major success in mainstream pop in the UK at the beginning of this decade. She was one of my favorite artists back then, and, having disappeared for 4 years, resurfaced in 2017 by releasing a series of downbeat slow jams, revealing a new, R&B direction. Needless to say, I couldn’t be happier that she’s back on my playlists.
Campus Pulse
Friday, March 2, 2018 • Page 4
Roving Reporter Where are you living next year?
“I don’t know yet, probably river terrace” Maria Agnese
“Non-Stevens Housing” Tom Cifelli
“I’m living in first floor Jonas cause I’m an RA.” Koby Garcia
“Hopefully Garden.”
“Around here in Hoboken, not Stevens leased.”
Margaret Marino
Mariapia Riso
“If you include furniture, utilities, risk of a roommate leaving, stuff like that, it’s cheaper to go Stevens leased. ”
“Home ‘cause I have a job and don’t need roommates.”
Issac Hirschfeld
Robyn Verrill
“Not Hoboken, I’m graduating.”
“I’m trynna get 538.”
Collin Aitken
Scott Murray
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Friday, March 2, 2018 • Page 5
THE STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION PRESENTS:
LIVE VIEWING PARTY
MARCH 7TH BURCHARD 118
4PM - 6PM *Food will be provided*
Alex Wellerstein, Ph.D. Nuclear Threats Reawakened: Should we Duck and Cover Again? Kristie Damell, Ed.D. Title IX Today: Time’s Up to Speak Up
Jan Cannizzo, Ph.D. Reimagining Calculus Education Elizabeth Fassam-Beck, Ph.D. Looking Up the Downspout: Green Infrastructure for Roof Runoff
News Continued Mariano
Continued from front page
job. He exited the room to inform the First Lady of the newest White House physician, Dr. Mariano. Dr. Mariano would go on to “pay back” the United States for nine years, serving as the White House physician to three U.S. presidents: George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush. The job entailed a large commitment, as she was on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. She was expected to follow presidents on trips, provide counsel and care to the First Family, and live on the edge when the possibility of presidential assassination or sudden death was a reality. She also notes the trepidation that came with the change in political parties, trepidation that was quelled by the highly experienced and perceptive White House staff, including the
all audiences to seek advice from individuals that may be overlooked in order to gain a different perspective. From her work in the White House, Dr. Mariano also learned the importance of learning from predecessors and advocating for positive change, even when people resist and say “we’ve always done it this way.” Dr. Mariano retired from active Navy service after 24 years, nine of which were served as White House physician at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. Since then, she has been able to reconnect with her children who felt her absence during her time in the White House and Navy. Dr. Mariano admits that although finding a balance is tough, “it is never too late for your happily-ever-after.” She withdrew from the nation’s capital and went on to become a consultant in the Executive Health Program at the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Arizona, from 2001 to 2005. She now leads the Center for Executive Medi-
Photo courtesy of stevens.edu
butlers and housekeepers. “Just take care of whoever lives in this house,” one of the women on the cleaning staff advised her. And that’s what Dr. Mariano did, and as a result, she came to value unexpected sources and now recommends to
cine, a medical concierge practice which she founded in 2005 that provides presidential-quality medical care to CEOs and their families. Dr. Mariano concluded her lecture with some “prescriptions” for all members in the audience: find your pur-
Friday, March 2, 2018 • Page 6
pose, discover your calling, improve everything you touch, take care of yourself, embrace optimism, maintain faith, family, and friends; and most importantly, always be grateful. Following Dr. Mariano’s presentation and several audience questions, Provost Christophe Pierre then presented the Provost’s Lecture Series on Women in Leadership Award to Melanie Caba. Melanie Caba is a junior Stevens student involved with Gear and Triangle, Order of Omega, Sigma Delta Tau, and serves as the Chair of Health and Wellness Committee in the Student Government Association. Caba accepted the award and later stated that “it is such an honor to be the inaugural recipient of this award on behalf of the office of the Provost and in honor of the speaker Dr. Mariano. After learning more about Dr. Mariano’s career, I aspire to follow in her footsteps and become the first of many throughout my career.” Caba also expressed her hopes for the future, saying, “I can be like Dr. Mariano by inspiring young women to be outstanding and strong leaders. Attending the lecture, I was reminded that I can do extraordinary things. And I can be a leader to others by being myself and following my passions.” This was the first lecture in the Provost’s Lecture Series on Women in Leadership with Provost Christophe Pierre in office. He invited Dr. Mariano to speak as “she is a great role model,
continued on thestute.com
Black Gotham Experience offers insight into 17th century New York by OLIVIA SCHREIBER Staff Writer
Diversity Education sponsored a Black Gotham Experience Tour in New York City this past Saturday, Feb. 24 as a continuation of Stevens’ Black History Month Celebration. The Black Gotham Experience was started in the very same way we explore our world: through questioning. Kamau Ware, the group’s tour guide and founder of the Black Gotham Experience, recognized that black people were missing from New York City’s history long before the thin sliver of land in the Hudson was formally established as New York. Why the absence? According to its website, The Black Gotham Experience is “an immersive visual storytelling project that celebrates the impact of the African Diaspora on New York City since 1625,” an impact that has long been forgotten in history textbooks. Ware introduced the origins of his work and the African Diaspora as a whole within his small studio, which is situated comfortably between Fulton and John Streets just several hundred meters away from the East River. Ware encouraged the use of “empathy and imagina-
AED and StevensTHON invite CSH Pediatric Physiatrist Aura Shoval by OLIVIA SCHREIBER Staff Writer
This past Wednesday, Stevens Pre-Health Medical Honor Society Alpha Epsilon Delta (AED) and StevensTHON joined forces to welcome Dr. Aura Shoval, Pediatiatric Physiatrist at the Clifton Children’s Specialized Hospital (CSH). The purpose of the event was to pique the interest of future healthcare providers with an introduction into the type of care that children within the Children’s Miracle Network Hospital receive. Alexis Cavallo, a representative from Clifton CSH, began with an explanation of the various treatments the hospital offers for an even wider range of diagnoses. Children with complex medical issues enter the hospital with “little hope” according to Cavallo, but oftentimes leave reaching their “highest potential,” which is the main goal of the program. After her brief introduction to the types of treatments and services CSH provides, Cavallo welcomed Dr. Aura Shoval to the front of the room to begin her presentation. Dr. Shoval — mindful that many of her students were interested in medicine — began with an overview of her speciality. Physiatry concerns itself with dysfunction of the bones, muscles, ligaments, and nervous system. Many of her treatment plans work to address her patients’ spasticity or increased muscle tone that lead to many
Staff Writer
tion” as he led the group along familiar sidewalks and pathways to recreate what the tip of Manhattan looked, smelled, and sounded like almost three centuries ago. Each member of the group was provided a character card to help aid in the re-visualization of the commonly-known space. For 90 minutes, Ware served as a raconteur, detailing the port city as it was in 1680, then known as the epicenter of the British Translatlantic Slave Trade. The island was home to many different types of people, including a wealthy master business class, merchants, pirates, sailors, free Black people, and enslaved Africans. Unbeknownst
to many, the change in power from Dutch to British rule fueled the first armed Black rebellion in 1712, a piece of history left out with the spectre of the colonies’ revolution looming in the near future. The tour ended at the Black Gotham Experience studio, where Ware continues to operate as an artist-inresidence with the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council, supported by the Howard Hughes Corporation. Jacquis Watters, Stevens’ Diversity Educator and coordinator of the trip, was impressed by the experience and is now committed to bringing students back to the Black Gotham Experience for another round of storytelling.
other potent muscle relaxant) into the nervous system so that it might decrease spasticity related to spinal cord injuries or other neurological disorders. After thoroughly illustrating what she does in her daily line of work, Dr. Shoval showed videos and images of several patients who had benefited tremendously under her care at CSH. One such patient was a young girl who now walks with little difficulty following a treatment plan including Botox injections, bracing, and hours of rehabilitation. “Walking is how children explore their world,” noted Dr. Shoval, a testament to how lifealtering these treatments can be for children, both for their health and social life. Kayla Pagnani, StevensTHON Program Director with CSH, gave brief remarks and thanked all volunteers and donors for their contributions to the cause. StevensTHON representatives were also there to provide more information about the dance marathon and fundraising techniques. “Dr. Shoval provided us with a perspective from the hospital that we do not normally hear about,” commented Seth Kirschner, StevensTHON Corporate Sponsorship Chair. “Not only was it an incredible learning experience, but her words of wisdom to incoming medical students were invaluable.” StevensTHON is scheduled for April 27 beginning at 7 p.m. For those who are interested in joining the movement, visit https:// www.stevensthon.com/.
Vero ad-free social network hits No.1 on Apple Store by SARAH HOOGENBOOM
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movement disorders. While functional goals are important, Dr. Shoval and her team work to improve patients’ overall quality of life. According to Dr. Shoval, there are just over 11,000 physiatrists in the United States; however, she is one of only 237 pediatric physiatrists in the country, making her role even more critical to the thousands of children who enter the Children’s Miracle Network Hospital every week. “If I can convince even one of you to enter physiatry today, I’ve done my job,” she joked, recognizing this talk as an opportunity to showcase her specialty to potential physicians. Dr. Shoval listed the requirements to become a pediatric physiatrist — including four years of medical school and an additional six years of residency in rehabilitation, surgery, and pediatric-specific rehabilitation — and went on to name several of the common procedures she employs to alleviate pain and improve overall function. Physiatry employs the use of Botox, a powerful muscle relaxant that is used to improve musculoskeletal dysfunction and alleviate pain. Other practices include trigger point injections of steroid or lidocaine or, in more serious cases, the implantation of an Intrathecal Baclofen Pump. The pump is inserted into the abdominal cavity and a thin catheter is threaded up towards the neck within the spinal column. This method allows for specific delivery of Baclofen (an-
Claiming to be a true social network, with a more “authentic” experience than Instagram and Facebook, Vero has grown like wildfire in the past few weeks. As one of the top downloaded apps on the App Store and Google Play, its interface claims to have social network improvements that many users have complained against on Instagram and Facebook platforms. First released in 2015, Vero’s recent popularity has been attributed to word of mouth among social media users and the app has been crashing due to a sudden surge in users in the last week. Some highlights of Vero include sharing books, movies, places, photos, and music, listening to music on the social media platform, and purchasing items with a single tap. Similar to the idea of Instagram, photographs and videos are the main means of posting, but many users also enjoy posting their new favorite songs or experimental recipes. The feature of sharing posts is based on self-inputted social circles of people such
as close friends, friends, acquaintances, and general followers. Deciding to share a post with a particular circle provides users with a choice between privacy and publicity. Many celebrities and famous social media bloggers find this feature liberating. The features are highlighted on Vero’s website with the statement “a social network for anyone who loves anything enough to share it-and wants control over who they share it with. Just like we do in real life.” One feature that Vero employs to stand out is its formatting of the social media feed. With no advertisements and content delivered strictly in chronological order, Vero claims to deliver a more natural social experience without algorithms and tricks. Because it is advertisement free, Vero is subscription based but has given the first million users access to Vero free for life. Once one million users were added to Vero, the free subscription was then extended to all new users until further notice because Vero was having technical issues which caused the application to crash several times. The founder of Vero, Ayman Hariri, is the son of former
Lebanese Prime Minister, Rafic Hariri, and was the deputy CEO of a Lebanese construction company. The construction company was then shut down in 2017 due to mismanagement of the company, but Hariri left the company in 2013 to pursue other initiatives. Controversy surrounds the new social media platform because of its Russian ties. Many of Vero’s employees are of Russian citizenship and users have taken note of this and the lack of gender diversity within the company. Some users have already tried to delete their Vero accounts. Claiming to be the next social media network and strictly “celebrating people’s passions,” Vero has made quite the impression, but only time will tell if it is the social media platform to overthrow Facebook or Instagram or if it is “just a phase”.
theibulletin.com
News Continued
Friday, March 2, 2018 • Page 7
WISO hosts Potluck event in Jacobus by CHARLES ZWICKER Staff Writer
On Wednesday, Feb. 28, the West Indian Student Organization (WISO) hosted its first event, Potluck. WISO is currently in the process of becoming a Registered Student Organization (RSO) and hopes to achieve official status later this month. The organization aspires to represent the many cultures that exist in the West Indies and introduce them to other students. Khamini Persaud, President of the club, says that there isn’t enough representation of these cultures in existing ethnic clubs on campus. “We are a resilient people who have created a beautiful common culture from so many different backgrounds,” says Persaud. The event featured games and cultural food, which was homemade, setting it apart from some of the other ethnic clubs. According to Persaud, “You will never leave a West Indian household hungry.” WISO is hoping to host more events to showcase the many cultural aspects that they have to offer. Interested in joining the West Indian Student Organization? Contact Persuad with any questions. Cole Yarborugh
CAL hosts Sixth Annual Creative Writing Contest by MATTHEW CUNNINGHAM Staff Writer
It has been five years since Professor Billy Middleton began the College of Arts and Letters (CAL) Creative Writing Contest in the spring semester of 2013. Since then, hundreds of students have submitted prose — fiction, or creative nonfiction — and poetry for this competition, revealing the creativity among students from all departments and programs at Stevens. The rules for this contest are simple: students may submit for the prose competition, limited to one 1,500 word submission; submit for the poetry competition, limited to three poems; or submit for both competitions. There’s no theme or prompt for the contest, so students are allowed to explore any topic they desire. The idea for this competition began back in 2011 when Middleton, one of the founding faculty of the Freshman Experience program at Stevens, noticed that some students were unsatisfied with the available resources for
them to express themselves. “I encountered a number of very talented young writers in my classes who were frustrated that there weren’t enough outlets for them to hone their literary craft,” Middleton said in an email. “I started the Annual Creative Writing Contest in 2013 as part of a larger initiative to give these students opportunities to practice and improve their writing.” In addition to this contest, Middleton revived the Creative Writing course and started “a salon series” at Stevens, which allows students not enrolled in the Creative Writing course to receive feedback on their writing. Middleton, when he began this contest, didn’t know if it could sustain interest at a school like Stevens. “I’ll admit I was nervous when I started the contest at an engineering school that there wouldn’t be enough maintained student interest to keep it going year to year,” said Middleton. “Thus, I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how many students continue to submit each year and
how passionate they are about their work.” Students seem to have enjoyed the Annual Writing Contest, particularly because Middleton receives approximately 50 student entries per year, with the number of participating students gradually increasing with each contest. Middleton expects that the number of submissions for this year’s contest may exceed that of all previous years. This prediction is largely due to the recent recognition of organizations on campus like RedShift and “[the] Poetry Club, ... as well as the continuing popularity of the salons and Creative Writing class.” Students, though, do not have to participate in these student organizations, the salons, or the creative writing class to participate in the competition. All entries are judged blindly by CAL faculty, so each student is given an equal opportunity, regardless of their affiliation with organizations like Poetry Club. Also, because of the blind judging, some students in previous years have won
in both prose and poetry categories. In 2016, for example, Gabriella Green placed first in the prose competition and third in the poetry competition. Winners of the contest, along with the runnerups and honorable mentions, are invited by CAL to present their work at the annual CAL Innovation Expo. The quality of the work, even among those who don’t win, is something that Middleton has admired and enjoyed over the years. “I’ve had the pleasure of working with a number of truly talented writers over the past few years, many of whom I came into contact with through the contest,” said Middleton. “I hope it continues to be an outlet to identify young talent and help them hone their craft.” tudents interested in participating in the Sixth Annual Creative Writing Contest must send their submission to Middleton by Friday, March 23, 2018, and if they have questions about the competition, they can contact Middleton before that date.
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Jacobus 2nd floor
Founder’s Day Ball
Friday, March 2, 2018 • Page 8
PHOTOS COURTESY OF J-CHUNG PHOTOGRAPHY AND THE EVENTS GURU
Founder’s Day Ball
Friday, March 2, 2018 • Page 9
STEVENS DINING WOULD LIKE TO INVITE YOU TO CHECK OUT ALL OF OUR EVENTS! MARCH IS NATIONAL NUTRITION MONTH. WE WILL BE CELEBRATING BY FEATURING DELICIOUS AND HEALTHY MEALS AS WELL AS A DIETITIAN TAKEOVER EVENT HOSTED BY OUR VERY OWN REGISTERED DIETITIAN, JOHN PAGANO. WE START WITH FOOD IN ITS SIMPLEST, MOST NATURAL FORM. OUR CHEFS HAVE THE FREEDOM TO CREATE ORIGINAL MENUS USING FRESH, AUTHENTIC INGREDIENTS. WE VIEW THE RESIDENTIAL DINING HALL AS AN EXTENSION OF THE CLASSROOM THAT PROVIDES OUR GUESTS AN OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN AND CELEBRATE. OUR MIX OF INTERACTIVE DINING STATIONS WILL SURELY LEAVE YOU SATISFIED. OUR CHEFS PREPARE A VARIETY OF DISHES THAT INCLUDE GLUTEN-FREE, HALAL, VEGAN AND VEGETARIAN SELECTIONS.
Opinion Continued
Friday, March 2, 2018 • Page 10
Cuisine Corner .
Leo’s Expect-a-Grandevous-Bill
by TRACY WONG
Sophomore Business and Technology Major
After over a semester of reviews now, I was surprised to realize that have I never reviewed an Italian restaurant in Hoboken. I guess it’s because most people have been to the many found on Washington street already. But on my walk home from work one day, I passed by a restaurant I had never seen or heard of before located on 2nd and Grand street. It was closed, but it looked like a cute restaurant. I looked up the name of the restaurant, “Leo’s Grandevous,” and my broke college student eyes were shocked. Not completely shocked, but maybe mildly surprised. The entrees ranged from about ten dollars for a simple pasta dish to over twenty two dollars for a fancier pasta dish like Penne Pesto with chicken and goat cheese. Upon arriving for dinner, the restaurant was
not packed but it was quite full. The walls were also filled, to my surprise, with every variation of a painting or picture of Frank Sinatra’s face. There was also an old jukebox-like music machine. It was also confusing entering because not only were there two doors, but also the area to wait to be seated was placed in the middle between the entrances, right in front of the bar. I was given the choice between a regular table seat or at a high table. I chose the table that was next to a window low enough to be at a similar height as people walking by when seated. It was a weird but cool view at the same time. The service was pretty average, it was pretty busy so my server ran around between a few other tables close by as well. We got some bread and butter to start. I guess restaurant week two weeks in a row has gotten me spoiled because my first thoughts towards the bread were very critical. Honestly, it was just bread. Tasted like you could buy it at Shoprite, slightly too toasted, and just came with normal pads of butter. I ordered the spinach ravioli and prosciutto (priced at $16) and of course I had to try “Leo’s
famous mussels,” which I got with the garlic white wine (priced at $14). Wow, that’s already thirty bucks before tax and tip! Although I probably rank in the the top one percentile for being slow at eating the food came out pretty fast, before I finished the bread. First I ate a ravioli from the first plate. Notably, there were only six raviolis, putting each ravioli ar a little over two dollars and fifty cents, am I the only person who calculates stuff like that? I took a bite to see if was worth it, and I decided that I could have just gone with the cheese ravioli for $13. It did taste pretty great, the skin was a nice soft, but not too soft, pasta texture, the filling was also great, with a bit of a sweetness. Most notably though, the filling visibly had spinach, but I would not have known the difference if I was blindfolded and the prosciutto didn’t really add to the dish, it seemed like it was just sprinkled on for aesthetics. However, I thought the alfredo sauce that it came in was amazing! It wasn’t very salty, just the way I like it, but it it had a lot of depth and flavor without it. Next were the famous mussels. Leo’s really
CONTACT & INFO Leo’s Grandevous 200 Grand St, (201) 659-9467
Mon. - Fri 11:30 AM - 11 PM Saturday 5 PM - 11 PM Sunday 4 PM - 10 PM Service: Food: Location:
Tracy Wong
hyped up their mussels so I had high expectations. Thankfully, I was not let down. The mussels were amazing. THey were presented on a dish, mussels piled on top of each other, with a bed of clear garlic white wine sauce beneath it. On the side was also a lemon, which I squeezed generously throughout the plate. I am not a seafood connoisseur, but I’m from Maryland so does that count? The mussels were very soft rather than chewy and just had a great texture overall. I’m also so
glad the waiter recommended the garlic white wine because I can’t even imagine the mussels with marinara or Fra Diavolo. The sauce was light and just the right amount of savory-salty flavor to compliment the mussels. Really, the food was good. I shared the meal with someone, and the first time I left a restaurant still not full. Although it was probably good in terms of portion control, I could have gone for Vivi’s popcorn chicken after. I think for one person, You’d have
Price: $$$ some leftovers with both the mussels and ravioli but let’s take a minute to stop and think about how I just paid $37 for two dishes. Maybe I’m too used to eating cheap food or being broke, I think we can conclude that Leo’s Grandevous, while quite good, would not be a casual place to have a meal. But maybe a good place to go when your parents come to visit (and pay for the bill of course).
Passion for Fashion
“Off-White Aesthetic” c/o Virgil Abloh™
by DANIEL KANG
Freshman Biomedical Engineering Major
Even if you are not into fashion, you’ve probably heard the name Virgil Abloh awfully lot lately. After all, he is a creative director for Kanye West, designer of his uber-popular brand Off-White, DJ (performs under the name “Flat-White”), architect (designed furniture and is releasing a collaboration with IKEA later this year), artist (recently took over London’s Gagosian Gallery for a collaborative exhibit with Takashi Murakami featuring prints and sculptures and designed the album art for Kanye West’s My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, Watch the Throne, and Yeezus and Lil Uzi Vert’s Luv Is Rage 2), and lecturer (so far at Columbia University, Rhode Island School of Design, and Harvard University). Ba-
sically, he is our generation’s Renaissance Man. In 2019, Abloh’s work will be the subject of a focused retrospective at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago, where he will show new work alongside previously unseen works from his past. All of this, from a man who originally studied civil engineering at the University of Wisconsin Madison and then obtained his master’s degree in architecture at the Illinois Institute of Technology. His brand Off-White has been on a meteoric rise lately, with many celebrities donning his clothes. Abloh’s signature penchant for deconstruction and typeface graphics are easy to distinguish from other brands in the oversaturated market right now. This weekend, the newest version of the Air Jordan 1 is releasing only in European retailers for the price of $190. If you know someone in Europe, this is the time to reconnect! The shoe itself is a creamy white version of the original Jordan 1 with a subtle light blue tone on the tongue, toe, ankle, and side panels that looks better the more I look at it. The contrast between the blue stitching on the
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Swoosh and the orange patch complete the design perfectly. Abloh’s attention to detail highlighted with the blue ziptie attached to the shoe’s collar, the OffWhite branding on the side panels, and “AIR” written on the midsole add to the beauty of the model. These sneakers also come with black, light blue, orange, and purple shoelaces with “SHOELACE” in quotes printed on it. The word “grail” is overused in the sneaker world but it most certainly applies here. This is another shoe that will go down in history. “Ten Icons Reconstructed” was launched by Nike in collaboration with Virgil Abloh as a celebration of iconic Nike footwear classics. The ten silhouettes covered were the Air Jordan 1, Nike Air Presto, Nike Air Max 90, Nike
Air Force 1, Nike Air Vapormax, Nike Hyperdunk, Nike Zoom Fly, Converse Chuck Taylor, Nike Blazer, and the Nike Air Max 97. The Off-White Air Jordan 1 actually won the 2017 Footwear News Achievement Awards “Shoe of the Year”. Previous recipients of the
coveted award include Rihanna, Kanye West, and Stan Smith. I would agree with the choice. He took a great shoe and somehow made it more awesome. It was destined to be an instant classic. Identical to the white Jordan 1 except in color, the shoes channeled the original “Chicago” Jordan 1 colorway. Abloh revisited the entire concept of shoes by redesigning the box and turning it inside out. The outside of the box was plain cardboard while the inside hinted at the normal Jordan shoe box. In addition, the sneakers came with four sets of shoelaces: black, white, lime green and orange. Each
also had “SHOELACE” in quotes printed on it. If you missed out on this release, do not worry. For Air Max Day taking place on March 26, two new versions of the Nike Air Vapormax in allwhite and all-black are set to make their debut. Their signature features are the Flyknit construction, VaporMax sole, “AIR” branding on the heel, more branding on the inner lateral section, and a distinctive orange tab embroidered on the Swoosh. There is also a bright orange Mercurial Vapormax in the works. Keep an eye out for Virgil Abloh’s movements because he is definitely going to continue with these releases.
hypebeast.com
Opinion Continued
Friday, March 2, 2018 • Page 11
Campus Liberal
Consider voting for my mom
by MATTHEW CUNNINGHAM Freshman Computer Science Major
Many of you reading this may not care about the Justice of the Peace race for District 2 of Washington County, Arkansas. In fact, I doubt anyone at Stevens (besides myself) lives in this district. But you should care about this race for one reason and one reason only — my mom, Susan Cunningham, is running for this seat. Justices of the Peace are a unique type of job to Arkansas. It’s a county-level legislative position, mainly dealing with administrative work, county budgeting, and creating new county-level ordinances as necessary. It requires someone who is detail-oriented and capable of over-
seeing a large jurisdiction. It requires someone like my mom. One thing you should know about her: She is an easy person to look up to. I’ve done it my whole life. For the last 18-and-a-half years I’ve known her, she has dedicated her life to public service. She volunteered her time for nearly every organization she believed in, never expecting money and only hoping she could assist something much bigger than herself. Here is the kind of woman Susan is: She still helps my swim team even though I quit it years ago. This is a woman who — because she loves the people on the team — still helps organize awards ceremonies, officiates swim meets, and assists in the setup and teardown of events (even though her own kid isn’t there anymore). Growing up, Susan served on nearly every ParentTeacher Association of my schools — not because she wanted to have power, but because she wanted to be closer to me, our family, and all of the families at my school. She has always put family above everything, and that is something I’ve always admired.
Even after I left for college, my mom found a way to continue giving to the community. She volunteers regularly at a place called Bread of Life, where, for hours, she serves meals to low-income families. She does this for one primary reason: she loves the people she meets there. Being a Justice of the Peace requires many things, such as knowledge of budgeting (she’s an accountant), a willingness to listen to other ideas (a wonderful mother), and a desire to serve the community (that’s been her entire life). She is more than qualified for this position. She has more than enough expertise. Nobody has more potential to succeed with this position than my mother, for she embodies all the necessary qualities of a local public servant: kindness, discipline, intelligence, and dedication. Her campaign has not even started yet. (She just filed a week ago.) But even now, I know she’s ahead of anyone who goes against her. I can’t wait to see to her succeed, and I can’t wait to vote for her in November. Vote Susan Cunningham for Justice of the Peace.
Campus Conservative
CPAC 2018 (no, not the anime one)
by ALEX MURTAGH Sophomore Civil Engineering Major
Before you even ask, I am not here to talk about the Castle Point Anime Convention. Rather, I am here to share my awesome experience at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC). Having watched clips from CPAC on TV and various places around the Internet, I had a small idea about what to expect going down to Maryland, but it was so much better than I expected. Although I missed the first day which included some of my favorite conservative voices like Ben Shapiro and Senator Ted Cruz, I was still blown away by those I got to hear the other two days of the conference, alongside my fellow Stevens College Republicans. My first full day of CPAC didn’t start off the best considering that if we wanted to get seats that we had to wake up by 5 a.m. and get out the hotel soon after. By the time I made it into the main room where the CPAC stage was, it was just before 7 a.m., and no one would even start speaking for another hour. I guess I can’t complain too much since I didn’t have to stand all the way in the back of the room with the other attendees packed in like sardines. After the long and boring hour, I was able to hear from people like Secretary of Energy Rick Perry, and Fox News and radio show host Laura Ingraham. I particu-
larly enjoyed Ingraham’s speech because she opened my mind to a lot of different conservative perspectives. After, Ingraham was supposed to interview one of my favorite members of Congress, Representative Jim Jordan from Ohio, but he got bumped to a later time because the President had arrived and was ready to go. I never thought that I would get so excited seeing him walk out on stage, but the energy in the room was just so contagious. President Trump had managed to be very serious but also very relaxed during his speech. He started off with a couple of jokes poking fun at his hair to get the audience ready for his hour and 20 minute long speech. But, about 10 minutes in, a protestor jumped up screaming something that no one could understand because he was quickly silenced by shouts of “USA! USA! USA!”, and, of course, the Secret Service taking him out of the room. After that, the speech went off without a hitch, and, for once, the President managed to keep his foot out of his mouth. The rest of the day was just as, if not more, exciting. I got to hear some really interesting panels and meet some amazing people. The group decided it was time to check out “media row” with the hopes of getting interviewed like one of our members did last year. Although none of us were able to get a live TV interview, I’m sure that we will appear in the background of numerous news reports and YouTube videos. I was able to score an interview with a student newspaper from Boston, so I’ll have to keep an eye out for that. While on media row, I got the chance to meet Matt Schlapp, chairman of the American Conservative Union, as well as other conservative stars like Dr. Sebastian Gorka, Candance Owens, and Sheriff David Clark.
After attending media row we went down to the main floor to check out all of the booths set up for different conservative organizations. It was interesting having the chance to meet with people who were so passionate about politics, but do all of the behind the scenes work. That concluded my first day at CPAC, which only left me even more excited for the following day. The second day, I got up bright and early, leaving behind everyone in my club to get the chance to hear my favorite radio host Mark Levin speak. I have listened to him since I was really young, so this was the man that I could say helped to drive my conservative political views. I was so excited to see him, that I really couldn’t put into words how I felt getting to shake his hand as he passed me on media row. That single moment made the entire trip worth it. Of course, I can’t leave out all of the other awesome speakers from that day, and those who I meet on media row. The last speaker I got to see was from the show Pawn Stars, Rick Harrison. I love history so, naturally, I loved his show from a young age. When he opened with “My name is Rick Harrison and this is... well my speech for CPAC,” the audience lost it, not expecting to hear that rendition of his famous line. He was very straightforward and candid which was refreshing to hear. He was definitely one of the best parts of this trip. Leaving the conference, I felt surprisingly motivated to spread the conservative message in order to preserve our great country. So, I guess you could say I had a great time at CPAC, and can’t wait to go back as a conference veteran, knowing the ins and outs, and exactly what I want to do with my time there.
Scientific Curmudgeon .
The Weirdness of Weirdness
by JOHN HORGAN CAL Professor
I’ve been brooding over weirdness lately. To me, the world and everything in it is weird, and weirdest of all are the clumps of matter that can contemplate themselves and think, “Weird!” But the more I think about weirdness, the weirder it seems. What sort of quality is weirdness? Is
it wholly subjective, like goodness and beauty? Or is it in some sense an objective property of the world, like temperature? Weirdness is, ordinarily, a relative term. If you call something weird, you mean it seems improbable and inexplicable in comparison to other, non-weird things. The feeling of weirdness could be an adaptive trait, akin to curiosity, because it motivates us to figure out how, say, heredity or magnetism works. But according to this practical point of view, weirdness should dissipate as we explain more and more things. Being mind-boggled by all things all the time doesn’t seem adaptive. And in fact psychiatrists have pathologized feelings of acute weirdness, or estrangement
from reality. They call this condition derealization. So let me try to explain what I mean when I say everything is weird. Since childhood I have had moments of jaw-dropping astonishment that I or anything else exists. Science has corroborated this youthful intuition by revealing that the origin of the universe, of life and of consciousness is each highly improbable. Multiply these improbabilities and they spike toward infinity. Here is where emotions come into play. You might react to our improbability with joy, because you realize how lucky we are to be alive. We shouldn’t be here, and yet here we are. It’s a miracle! Or you might brood over how how perilous our existence is, because you realize that non-existence
is infinitely more probable than existence. But the improbability that triggers these emotions isn’t just in your head, it is out there. And so is the weirdness. The problem is, many people don’t think the universe, life and consciousness are especially weird. When I talk to my students about the weirdness of existence, they often look baffled. They think I’m weird for insisting that existence is weird. And in fact leading thinkers believe that science has already told us so much about the world and about ourselves that it has dissipated the mystery of things. Philosopher Daniel Dennett, for example, has argued for decades that life and consciousness aren’t that weird. They are just results of physical process-
es. Science hasn’t pinned down all the details yet, but it’s just a matter of time. Consciousness will soon seem no weirder than digestion or metabolism. If you insist that things are fundamentally weird, Dennett implies, you must be some sort of flake. Other philosophers disagree. In his 2013 book Mind and Cosmos, Thomas Nagel argues that conventional, materialistic science cannot account for the emergence of life and consciousness. Paul Feyerabend, whom I interviewed in 1992, mocked scientists who think they have figured out reality. He said, “The reality that is behind this is laughing! ‘Ha ha! They think they have found me out!’” These disagreements give me pause, because they
make weirdness seem subjective. And yet I cling to my conviction that the world is weird, and that its weirdness is more fundamental than other qualities we attribute to it, such as goodness, badness or oneness. I rarely see the weirdness of the world now. I am so absorbed in my own little schemes and troubles that I usually take reality for granted. And someday, scientists might convince themselves, and the rest of us, that the world is no longer weird, because they have figured it out. They will exult in their triumph. But when we stop seeing the world as weird, we have lost something, not gained something. Whether or not we see it, the weirdness will still be out there.
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Sports
Friday, March 3, 2018 • Page 12
Prescott qualifies for NCAAs in 200yard breaststroke
Going Dancing! Brown named MVP as Women’s Hoops wins E8 Championship
ON DECK IN SPORTS
Friday Stevens Sports Information Stevens Sports Information
SSI - Stevens Institute of Technology women’s swimming senior Kaitlynn Prescott will race for a national championship in the 200-yard breaststroke at the NCAA Division III Men’s and Women’s Swimming and Diving Championships in Indianapolis, Indiana, the NCAA Division III Men’s and Women’s Swimming and Diving Committee announced Wednesday evening. The championships will be held March 21-24 at the IU Natatorium in Indianapolis and will be cohosted by Franklin College and the Indiana Sports Commission. A total of 579 participants (526 swimmers and 53 divers) will compete in the champion-
ships. Prescott’s 200-yard breaststroke trial heat is scheduled for the morning session on Saturday, March 24. Additionally, the Escondido, California native will compete in the both the 400-yard individual medley and the 100-yard breaststroke races at the championships, which are scheduled for the second and third day of competition, respectively. “It has been great to work with Katie and see her progress over these four years,” said head men’s and women’s swimming coach Lindsay Mikkelson. “Our goal this season has been to qualify and be successful at NCAAs. Having earned a trip to Nationals in her se-
nior year is a great accomplishment. Katie has set herself up to swim well and we are looking forward to ending her career with a great National meet.” Prescott, named Swimmer of the Meet at the recently completed Empire 8 Conference Championships, posted her qualifying time of 2:20.13 in the final women’s individual race of the championships, which also marked a new personal best. The senior topped the field by over five seconds in winning her second individual race of the event. Prescott also set both a new personalbest time of 1:05.70 in the 100 Breast and a seasonbest time of 4:38.34 in the 400 IM at the E8s.
Efficient offense leads No. 18 Men’s Lacrosse over Endicott, 14-4
SSI - Empire 8 Conference Co-Player of the Year Megan Brown was named Most Valuable Player after leading the Stevens Institute of Technology women’s basketball team back to the NCAA Tournament with a 52-47 victory over St. John Fisher College Saturday to win the program’s third E8 championship. Brown led all players with 17 points and 10 rebounds for her fifth straight double-double and 13th of the season. Over the twogame tournament, the Laurel, Maryland native shot 17-of-33 from the field and a remarkable 14-of-15 from the free throw line. Stevens’ victory marked the fifth time in conference history that a team seeded third is crowned league
champion. Eight different players scored for Stevens, who improved to 15-12 on the year. The win extended the Ducks’ season-best winning streak to seven games. Nicole Robinson and Caroline Robertson each scored 13 to lead St. John Fisher. The Cardinals, who earned the top seed in the conference tournament after posting a 15-1 mark in league play, fell for the third time in the conference championship. At 216, the Cardinals must await Monday’s selection show to learn if the team will receive an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament. Brown and freshman Annetta Panayides were named to the Empire 8’s All-Tournament Team.
No. 3 Men’s Volleyball tops No. 9 NYU
WOMEN’S TRACK & FIELD
@ All-Atlantic Region Championships 10 a.m. Ithaca, NY
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
@ University of Rochester 7:30 p.m. Rochester, NY
MEN’S TRACK & FIELD
@ All-Atlantic Region Championships 10 a.m. Ithaca, NY
Saturday WOMEN’S FENCING
@ NIWFA Championship 8 a.m. West Point, NY
MEN’S BASEBALL
@ University of Massachusetts-Boston 12 p.m. Boston, Mass. Stevens Sports Information
SSI - Sophomore Brendan Monteleone and junior Eric Radbourne each recorded a hat trick as the eighteenth-ranked Stevens Institute of Technology men’s lacrosse team converted 23 shots on goal into 14 goals to defeat Endicott College 14-4 Saturday in a non-conference game at Hempstead Stadium. Seniors Tommy Dawson and Bryan Rogers and freshman Ryan Gebhardt each recorded two goals for the Ducks, who built a fourgoal halftime lead, before scoring six goals in the final period to break the game
open. The victory was the second straight for Stevens to open 2018 and the third straight over the Gulls. Andrew Soucy had a goal and an assist and Patrick Dean made nine saves for Endicott, who fell in its season opener. “We got a great day from Carson White in goal and from [Nicholas Carnovale] at the face-off X in the first half,” head coach Gene Peluso said. “It was nice to build a lead, and with some timely saves and a strong performance at faceoffs, we were able to do some good things.”
Junior attackman Max Bailey recorded a goal and an assist, senior John Boutureira scored his fifth goal of the year, and freshmen Shawn Coulter and Max Ranaldi each recorded an assist for their first points of the year to round out the Stevens scoring. White made 13 saves to earn his second win of the year. Defensively, six different players caused a turnover, with sophomore Alec Caseiro and junior Daniel Crotty each recorded three,
continued on stevensducks.com
SSI - Sophomore David Lehman recorded a team-high 15 kills and graduate student Gabe Shankweiler added nine kills and a team-high 10 digs as the third-ranked Stevens Institute of Technology men’s volleyball team defeated No. 9 New York University 3-1 (2628, 25-20, 25-22, 25-19) Wednesday night in a United Volleyball Conference match played at Canavan Arena. It was the second meeting between the programs in the last 14 days. Freshman Ryan Byrne came off the bench to provide a first-set spark for the Ducks and fin-
ished the night with a career-best nine kills and six blocks. The victory was the fourth straight for the Ducks, who improved to 13-3 on the year. Stevens remains perfect in UVC play with a 3-0 record. The four-set win was out of the ordinary for the local rivals: each of the five previous meetings between the teams went a full five sets. Evan Lindley matched Lehman’s output with 15 kills to lead the Violets. The loss was the third in the last four matches for NYU, who fell to 7-5 on the year and 0-3 in conference play.
MEN’S LACROSSE
VS Spring Field College 1 p.m.
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL TBA 7 p.m. Rochester, NY
MEN’S VOLLEYBALL
VS Lancaster Bible College 1 p.m.
Duck Country Scoreboard Date 2/25 2/25 2/25 2/25 2/25 2/25 2/25 2/25 2/28 2/28 2/28
Stevens
Opponent/Event
Score
Result
Women's Lacrosse Men's Tennis Wrestling Men's Tennis Women's Fencing Women's Fencing Women's Fencing Women's Fencing Men's Volleyball Women's Lacrosse Baseball
VS St. Joseph's College VS University of Mary Washington VS Day Two VS Sewanee: Univerity of the South VS Tufts University VS Hunter College VS Queen's College VS Wagner College VS New York University VS Montclair State University
15-4 2-7 116 2-7 18-9 21-6 22-5
W L 2nd L W W W W
VS Rowan University
24-3 3-1 11-6 2-3
W W L
Stevens Sports Information
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