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February | 2022 WWW.KUTOWER.COM
TH E I N DEPEN D EN T VOI C E OF K E AN U N IV E R S IT Y
It’s Okay To Seek Therapy
The Power of Involvement:
Becoming a Voice for Change
Leaders Call for Canceling Student Loan Debt
By Cindy Lazo
By Harmony Sanchez
By Davaughnia Wilson
It was a Thursday morning like no other; my hands felt clammy as I kept refreshing my email, impatiently waiting for the Zoom link for my first virtual counseling session. As the clock kept ticking to my allotted time, a knotting feeling started to sink into the pit of my stomach as I began to recall my recent announcement to
Earlier this year, Kean University participated in a virtual roundtable on Student Debt cancellation hosted by U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker. The roundtable garnered perspectives from undergraduate students at Kean including Junior Delia Latini. With two minutes to make her mark at the roundtable, Delia spoke on her experience with student debt. Sharing how it’s shaped both her pre-college and post-college journey. “As I’ve progressed through my college career, my friends and I, we keep circling back to what we are going
Dr. Lamont Repollet engaged in a virtual roundtable discussion with U.S. Senator Bob Menendez and other prominent New Jersey leaders to advocate for student loan debt cancellation. The roundtable featured Sen. Cory Booker; Ryan Haygood, president of the New Jersey Institute for Social Justice; Richard Smith,
“My involvement has quite literally everything to do with my professional journey in college,” Photo by Cindy Lazo
Mental Health is Health!
my misinformed Hispanic family that I was seeking help for my anxiety breakdowns with thoughts and feelings I cannot suppress and no longer hold in--their comments of ‘why do I need it’ and ‘therapy won’t do any difference’ kept echoing in my mind as I began to have doubts. Even after my session I was feeling regret and guilt for pursuing this unknown territory because of years of hearing and having been told by my family that therapy is for crazies and will likely get you labeled as mental. I had even cried once the Zoom call ended because at that moment I thought that I was bringing shame and continued on page 15
Photo by Delia Latini
Pictured: Delia Latini
“We're not only graduating with a degree we're graduating with a debt that comes along with it.”
do next,” Latini said. “What are we going to do with our student debt.” Despite having such little time, Latini provided political figures better insight on the personal experience some students have
president of the New Jersey NAACP; Velva Dawson, a New Jersey resident; and Kean students Jason Pleitez, and Delia Latini to urge the Biden Administration to cancel up to $50,000 in student loan debt per person before the emergency deferment period ends on May 1, 2022. “Senator Booker and I have been advocating for this for a while now, and we are fortunate to have with us today a tremendous group of advocates and leaders who have dedicated their lives to education and issues of
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Photo by Kean Universitys instagram page
President Lamont Repollet
2 THE TOWER
February, 2022
American Heart Month By Julia Strugala February is American Heart Month, a time when all people can focus on their cardiovascular health. In the midst of the pandemic, stress and anxiety levels for college students have been at an all time high. Along with healthy eating and a minimum of fifteen minutes of exercise per day, there are an array of other aspects to health that students can take into consideration when trying to improve their heart health. In relation to the pandemic, students all across Kean tapped Take a deep breath in with their experiences related to their physical health during Covid-19. Kirk Suqilanda, a senior at Kean with a major in Communication Media & Film, said that prior to the pandemic he would train twice a day and was in the best physical health of his life. Slowly throughout the months of Covid-19, his physical activity plummeted. “I don’t do as much. I got the shots and booster, but I still feel uncomfortable being close to strangers in the gym. In the summer I could workout in my backyard and go for a jog every morning,” Suqilanda said. Other Kean students experienced the opposite effect. Junior and Communication major claimed her physical health improved drastically throughout the pandemic. “[The pandemic] left me time to deal with myself. With nothing else to do, exercise made me feel fulfilled while the world sort of stopped,” Sarah Jerome shared. Although physical activity level is a large part of cardiovascular health, there are an array of other aspects that play into heart health. After speaking with Dr. Consuelo Bonillas, Health Program Coordinator and Professor of Public Health, American Heart Month is much more than eating a serving of fruit and vegetables a day. “In regards to heart health, let’s also think about alcohol and smoking,”
Bonillas said. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), e-cigarettes and vapes raise blood pressure and increase the chance of having a heart attack by 56% compared to non-smokers. Vaping has become a popular stress outlet for college students, but causes mass amounts of harm in the long run. “We know that tobacco use is strongly correlated with not only a variety of different cancers, but also in regards to heart disease. For American Heart Month, it’s not just about how much we eat or exercise but Photo by Kean University Instagram it’s also about all of these other things,” said Bonillas. Smoking causes one in every four deaths from cardiovascular disease, according to studies by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Alexandra Beagan, a senior at Kean with a marketing major, gives her perspective on vaping. “I have friends that are addicted to nicotine and they depend on it. They say it helps with stress levels, but then it gets in the way of class when they have to go to the bathroom to stop their headache from withdrawals,” Beagan said. “In the long run, I think it only causes more stress. There are so many healthier ways to cope.” Beagan said she has tried to get friends to stop and encouraged them to give other coping mechanisms a try such as meditation, yoga, and building a support system around them that can aid them in quitting. Bonillas continued the conversation by bringing awareness to how social groups have an impact on people’s health and wellness. Not everyone has the resources to make their health a priority because of the various facets of life that come into play. Long work hours and hazardous living environments amongst a variety of other factors can be an obstacle that keeps people from investing in their health. “February is not just in regards to American Heart Month, but it’s also continued on page 9
Students Express Concern Over Dating App Death of Conneticut Woman By Ja’bria Laster Each year women are sexually assaulted, mistreated, or sometimes even killed by their attacker – an issue that college students need to know. In December, 23-year-old Lauren Fields of Connecticut was found dead in her own bed with her date next to her, after an evening with the man whom she met on the social media app, bumble. Police have not yet determined the cause of death. The Bumble date told reporters that
into the case,” she said. “I felt like it was just blown off and wasn’t taken seriously.” Dougan is not alone with her opinion. As the Fields investigation continues, thousands of people around the world are saying Lauren’s name on social media and calling for justice. Hashtag #laurensmithfields is making others aware of this tragedy and friends of the Fields family continue to hope justice is served. They are asking the media to shine light upon this case. As a young woman, Dougan said she often feels unsafe and afraid. She
“Hashtag #laurensmithfields is making others aware of this tragedy”
Photo by Licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
"Clear legal basis needed to combat violence against women" by European Parliament
Fields fell asleep on the couch and he carried her to the bedroom. He said he woke up at about 3 a.m. to use the restroom, and he noticed Ms.Fields was sound asleep and snoring. At 6:30 a.m. he woke up and saw Fields unresponsive, on her right side with blood leaking out of her nostril, he told the investigators. He told investigators he was trembling and visibly shaken, according to a report in The New York Times. This case is still fresh, yet not too many students at Kean were aware of this incident. Kean student Elizabeth Dougan said it bothered her that this case got little attention. “There was no energy or motivation put
personally uses something she describes as the “buddy system,” which involves her going places such as an event, gathering, or even just to the bathroom to keep safe. Dating apps are one of the most used apps when it comes to trying to find someone to connect with, and Bumble is one of those apps. However, students at Kean seemed to be aware that you have to be careful and smart about using them. Kean student Kayla Hodges does not use dating apps, saying they are just another way for “bad people” to meet you. “Of course, not everyone has the ability to do monstrous things or just have evil intentions, but how well do we, or can we know someone until we know the real them and it’s too late?” Hodges said. n
3 THE TOWER
February, 2022
The Home of Art, Dreams, and Leaky Faucets By Isaiah Joseph
the art studios. Inside one of the exhibit rooms, an art Kean is home to multiple unique student who asked not to be identified and talented students who express waited on the floor for her canvas to dry themselves through their art, however, as she set up for an upcoming art show. they are feeling defeated by the building When asked about the maintenance that they call home. and condition of the building she let out One thing that every visual and a little chuckle. performative artist needs to make their The student talked about the main projects into a reality is a space where they issues she observed in the building. can work, create, and somewhere they can “We have no hot water, and it is always call home while they are on campus. But cold in here so there is also no heat, we what if your home isn’t living up to your have to use the studio lights to keep us expectations? For Kean’s student artists, warm on some days,” she said. that home is Vaughn-Eames. She voiced her concern about changes One of the that are needed original buildings inside the on Kean’s Union classrooms. She campus, Vaughnexplained that they Eames was built have been trying in 1969 and holds to get renovations the history and inside the building potential of many and bring attention artists, but lately, to the buildings students complain condition. They that the conditions obtained new desks of the building for the building have been making after three years of it difficult for them asking. to work. She explained Like every Photo by Isaiah Joseph that in light of building on Extremely old bathroom hand dryer, “ hit it with a all the building's baseball bat carved into it” c a m p u s , faults, a lot of small maintenance is changes are being important to made to keep the keep them in building in working decent shape, but condition. The VaughnEames university replaced has been suffering the concrete floor for quite a few near the main years before the entrance with voices of students wooden floors were heard. and also painted From mold on the walls of the the ceilings to building. windows that leak When taking water, and restrooms looking similar a stroll through the halls you are met to a dirty gas station bathroom, the art building houses many different issues with artwork that distracts you from the bland and eerie look of the features of the that need immediate attention. Recent complaints about the building building. “We also have one vending machine were discussed during Kean’s last town and the snacks go out fast because hall meeting held on Nov. 22. students are here doing six-hour classes. An art student who attends classes in Generally, there needs to be more love for Vaughn Eames decided to express their the building,” the student said concerns about the conditions in the Art history professor Marguerite building at the town hall. The students complained of how their projects were Mayhall who has been teaching at Kean
“We have no hot water, and it is always cold in here so there is also no heat, we have to use the studio lights to keep us warm on some days”
damaged due to water leaking in one of
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Harassment Case Closed By Davaughnia Wilson
that during the entire process, it felt like a rollercoaster ride with its many ups and A former Kean University student downs. faced four counts of harassment and one Since the incident last November, she count of violation of probation last fall has become very uneasy when she is after harassing multiple female students around men and they start to get close on Kean University’s Union campus on to her because she doesn't know their the evening of Nov. 3. Since the incident was first brought intentions. She wished that the other victims to light by an Instagram user who was were present at the hearing, but she has harassed in the Center of Academic accepted the fact and understands that it Success (CAS), the investigation has been ongoing and was officially closed on wasn't an easy task to do. She stated that Feb. 1. she decided to speak out about it in hopes Another female student who was of helping those who are experiencing or harrassed, a psychology major, who have experienced the same fate as her. wishes to remain “I wish more anonymous, could’ve been stated that three done, but I am of the four cases relieved that it were dismissed is over with. My as the other only goal from female victims this is to move on did not show up from it and hope to the hearing. it never happens She explained again,” she said. that she appeared The Tower in a virtual staff reached court hearing through the out to Associate Union Township Vice President Municipal Court for University for the first time Relations, on Nov. 24 and M a r g a r e t the case was McCorry, for officially closed a comment on Feb. 1. however she did “He only not respond. plead guilty to On Jan. 20 my charge,” she the university said. “He has a sent an email $500 fine and to all students, probation for a faculty and staff year. I also placed a restraining which read, Photo by Kean University order on him.” “Kean University Email sent to all students, faculty and staff. She explained is committed to that emotionally protecting its she was broken after the last hearing. students from harassment, intimidation She felt very unsafe, worried and she and bullying. expected the accused to receive a harsher The Kean University Policy on punishment. She stated that the results Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying made her extremely frustrated with the was included in the email and students legal system. “I don’t think it’s fair and I wanted were asked to review it. “The University promotes a culture something to be done,” she said. She stated that she was nervous going of health, wellness, safety, respect, and into the last hearing because she wasn’t excellence as the foundation upon which sure if the case would be closed or they to build prevention of bullying,” the email would need another session. She added said. n
“He has a $500 fine and probation for a year. I also placed a restraining order on him.”
4 THE TOWER
February, 2022
Kean University Returns for Spring 2022 with Two Weeks Virtual, Followed by a Return to Campus By Victoria Cifelli
However, students such as Pat Smith, a senior in the Political Science major, said that online school had taken a toll on their mental health during the pandemic. “It was like a rush of panic. The year of quarantine and online classes was so
learning to slow the spread of COVID-19 after the holidays. “Many people were traveling during Winter Break and I believe the school wanted to make sure everyone was free of any sicknesses before coming back in
“With cases now significantly reduced statewide, the University has returned Students relived the 2020 quarantine to in-person learning and work, and will experience after Kean University stated continue to monitor guidance from health that the first two weeks of the current authorities moving forward,” McCorry spring semester would be remote due to the said. “The University has received strong increase in COVID-19 cases. support from students and With the increase in employees for our COVID-19 COVID cases and spread of response plan. We continue to the new Omicron variant, be grateful for the steps each the University set out to member of our community keep it’s students and faculty is taking to keep us all safe safe by having two weeks of during this pandemic.” remote learning for the Spring On the University website, semester. All in-person classes there is more information and operations were set to regarding the return to campus resume on Jan. 31 for all staff with COVID. Safety protocols and students. are being kept in place, to help “Overall, the reduced lower the spread of COVID on density and remote work campus. period will allow both students Photo by Victoria Cifelli Photo by Victoria Cifelli Photo by Kean University Website “Everyone, regardless of and employees an opportunity The library on a campus day, after the return Green Lane Academic Building on Main Campus Center for Academic Success, on Main Campus vaccination status, is required to minimize exposure and back to campus to wear masks inside all to get a COVID-19 booster shot to help Kean buildings and classrooms. The only protect themselves and their loved ones devastating to my mental health, all I could person,” Strugala said. According to Associate Vice President of exceptions are when an individual is in a from serious illness,” said President Lamont do was think over and over again, I can't go University Relations, Margaret McCorry, private space, such as a residence hall room Repollet in an email to faculty, staff and back to that,” Smith said. Despite many struggles since March with the surge of cases of the Omicron or office, or when eating or drinking. Mask students. 2020 with mental health, many students, variant of COVID-19 in December 2021, regulations are subject to change pending Physical safety of the campus and community has been a top priority for Kean such as senior Julia Strugala, did see the local health officials have been in contact state, federal and University guidelines,” the need for a temporary return back to remote with the university. University, and it will continue to be. University website said. n
“It was like a rush of panic.”
System Shock Before the First Day of the Semester By Andrey Nalbantov Every new start of a semester brings a dose of stress for both students and professors, especially while spending the first two weeks remotely and having to quickly adjust and come back to the uncomfortable school desks and the crowded Starbucks. The stress level for the Spring semester increased after all Kean systems and related programs went down the day before the semester started, causing many disruptions among students and faculty. Many students could not access some of the university-related platforms like KeanWise and Blackboard to retrieve additional information about their classes before the first day of the Spring 2022 semester.
What created even more confusion among students was the fact that they could not even contact their professors through their Kean email, because the emails they sent out were not delivered while the system was down. Once the problem was resolved, the university's Office of Computer and Information Services (OCIS) sent out an announcement email to all students, faculty, and staff of the university. OCIS explained in their email that the reason behind the massive shutdown was “due to fiber cable damage with the University’s carrier.” They also assured that all Kean-related services were back online, and available for the first day of classes on Jan. 18. All emails sent out earlier in the day were to be delivered over the next few hours as well.
The system shock not only caused troubles for students who tried to gather more information on their classes and contact their professors but also created difficulties for the ones that tried to add or drop classes. Maria Irvin, a junior majoring in Communication and Media Studies, wanted to drop a class a day before the semester started but could not due to KeanWise not working. Even though the whole situation caused some confusion for Irvin, she luckily had no troubles once the system came back on. “I tried dropping a US History class,” Irvin said. “I got immensely stressed.”
“I tried dropping a US History class, I got immensely stressed.”
Photo by Stress, by Ashley Campbell Photography is licensed under CC BY 2.0
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Remembering Hanna Syed By Tyra Watts On Jan. 24, 2022, 28-year-old Hanna Syed was tragically struck by a car on North Avenue at around 5:30 p.m., in front of the Kean University Union campus. She was rushed to the hospital but sadly passed away that same evening after succumbing to her injuries. According to local news reports from NJ.com and Patch.com, the person behind the vehicle was a 34-year-old man named Charles Carrier Jr. from Newark, NJ. The Union County Prosecutor’s Office stated that the investigation is still ongoing and as such, no information can be provided about the case at this time. Syed, a Queens, New York native, was a Kean Graduate student in the Physician Assistant program. Dr. Carol A. Biscardi, the Executive Director of Kean’s Physician Assistant Program, and Professor Robert Adamczyk, Hanna’s advisor, had much to say about her. “She was quiet but very determined,” Professor Adamczyk said. “She had a dream of becoming a physician assistant for many years, and this was something that she worked very hard to get to.” Syed and Adamczyk first met during an online interview between the spring and summer of 2021. She did such a good job in the interview that Adamczyk and Dr. Biscardi knew that they wanted her in the program. Adamczyk was in his office when he found out the news of Syed’s passing from Dr. Biscardi, who had gotten the phone call earlier. “We were both numb,” Adamczyk said. “It’s just like time just had stopped and everything just didn’t seem real.”
Adamczyk stated that he will remember Syed as someone who felt that a physician’s assistant was a profession where you could build strong relationships with your patients and that no matter what your dream is, you should pursue it as best as you can. Dr. Biscardi revealed that she will remember Syed as someone who, despite the rigors and pressure of the program, always had a good morning, good afternoon, g o o d evening, to e ve r y b o dy and you know, look for the good and the happiness that she said at that moment. O n e of Syed’s f o r m e r classmates, Stephen H u s c h , described Photo by Kean University Syed as a Professor Robert Adamczyk humane individual who made you feel like the most important person in the room. “No matter what else was going on, she wasn’t the loudest person in the room, but when she was not there, you would know that she was not there,” Husch said. “Her impact was always felt by those around her.” Husch knew Syed since last September, and they spoke briefly in a group chat
before the Fall semester. On the day of Syed’s passing, Husch was in an online Zoom class and everyone noticed that she was not present. Later in the afternoon, Husch had an in-person lab class when Dr. Biscardi and a member from Kean University’s counseling service came in and notified the class of what happened to Syed. “The person from the counseling department told us that each person kind of grieves differently, and that reminded us that we may need time to ourselves, but to kind of remember t h a t everyone was feeling the same way and to make sure we were there for each other as well,” Photo by Kean University H u s c h Carol A. Biscardi, Executive Director of the Physician Assistant Program explained. The passing of Hanna Syed raised questions about pedestrian safety and campus safety overall. Husch has questioned the safety around campus as the campus community continues to grow. “Another aspect that we’ve been thinking of is…like a question that comes up is how can we avoid this from happening again?” Husch said.
“Her impact was always felt by those around her.”
February, 2022
THE TOWER 5
Photo by Kean University
Nathan Weiss Graduate College
Meanwhile, a few Kean students had some concerns and how the university should take action after Hanna’s passing, including The Tower’s very own Victoria Cifelli. “I just think it’s devastating,” Cifelli said. “She had such a potentially bright future as a physician’s assistant, she wanted to help people. As a part of the campus community, it is devastating that we lost such a bright student so close to campus.” Kean University issued a Memoriam for Syed via email to all staff and students three days after her passing. During the fall 2022 semester, Kean University will honor Syed with a white coat that will be given to her family at the annual White Coat Ceremony. “Her legacy is more than a teacher or student at Kean, I think her influence is going to be more than just our time with her,” Husch said. “Her influence and her legacy is going to last… she’s going to influence our practice of medicine so that it’s no longer just one person, one Kean student going out to the medical field. We’re taking Hanna with us and taking what we learned from her.” n
Garden State Guarantee Improves Kean Affordability By Jalen Gaynor Kean continues to show commitment to being New Jersey’s most affordable University by joining the Garden State Guarantee (GSG). On Jan. 25, Kean University announced that it has joined GSG, a financial aid program that makes college free for eligible students who are in their third and fourth years.
The GSG was established by Gov. Murphy as part of New Jersey State’s budget for 2022. Students are evaluated for the GSG as long as they complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). In a statement released by President Lamont O. Repollet, he voiced his excitement for the future. “We are excited to be partnering with Gov. Murphy and the State of New Jersey
“The new Garden State Guarantee helps Kean advance its goals of creating equity and providing academic excellence to all students.”
to expand access and affordability to students, making it possible for more students to attend and graduate from Kean University,” said Dr. Repollet. “The new Garden State Guarantee helps Kean advance its goals of creating equity and providing academic excellence to all students.” The criteria for being eligible for the GSG hinges on residency, citizenship, continued on page 8
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February, 2022
The Valentine: Things You Didn’t Know About Kean TV’s Show That Helps Students Find Love By Francheska Kubacki If ABC’s The Bachelor had a baby with Netflix’s Love is Blind, Kean TV’s The Valentine would be it. The Valentine was created by current member and president of Kean TV, Maria Irvin in the spring of 2021 while classes and organizations met virtually. The idea was sparked during quarantine as options were limited regarding what Kean TV could do to create content. They cast someone to be The Valentine, set them up on blind dates with other Kean students, and hope for the best–all while keeping the Kean community in the loop of everything, as most of it is filmed. “Last year it was easier because people were at home, and everyone was kind of willing to do something a little bit different, they had nothing better to do
because of COVID-19,” Irvin said. Season one kicked off with a female valentine, and Kean TV member Samantha Hilenski. Irvin explained that she loves reality shows and needed content during quarantine and The Valentine was the perfect idea. “Sam is such a sweet person and I like to be a matchmaker,” Irvin said. Current host of the show Diego Mendoza said that last year was very much a question mark. No one knew how it was going to turn out due to everything having to be moved online. “I felt that the guests and the bachelorette felt it was a question mark as it was all virtual,” Mendoza said. “It had its quirks and being the host was a lot of fun.” As students return to campus, The Valentine comes back for season two staring sophomore and Kean TV member,
“Helping people find love is not always easy, and Kean TV has struggled quite a bit with running The Valentine.”
Department of Communication Kean University Center for Academic Success 1000 Morris Avenue Union, NJ 07083 Telephone: (908) 737-0470; Fax: (908) 737-0465 Email: thetower@kean.edu; www.kutower.com
The Tower is an independent, laboratory newspaper of Kean University’s journalism option in the communication major program. It is published monthly through the regular academic year and supported by advertising and the Department of Communication. The Tower is not responsible for claims made by its advertisers. The Tower is a public forum and is free from censorship and advance approval of content by the university administration. The Tower staff is responsible for its content.
EDITOR IN CHIEF: CHELSEY JAIPERSAUD FEATURES EDITOR: CINDY LAZO NEWS EDITOR: DAVAUGHNIA WILSON SPORTS EDITOR: RUBEN NIEVES ONLINE EDITOR: JULIA STRUGALA CO-ONLINE EDITOR: ANDREY NALBANTOV
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SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER: MALLORY HELMES
Kean TV finds their Valentine By Steven-Ross Bugayong After weeks of casting and prepping, The Kean TV club has found their Valentine, Jadion Morales. The 20-yearold film student became the first male Valentine in the show's short-lived history. "I'm excited to do it,” Morales said. "I’ve never been a part of anything like this, but I'm down for it." Before deciding on Morales, the student producers at Kean TV had several other students in mind for the role, but after several interviews and going through the casting process, Morales became the obvious choice. "Jadion is a breath of fresh air. He is handsome, smart, and just plain cool," Kean TV’s vice president, sophomore Robyn Epstein, said. "He's different. You don’t see someone like him on The
“I’ve never been a part of anything like this, but I'm down for it.”
STAFF WRITERS HARMONY SANCHEZ
JA’BRIA LASTER
HECTOR MORALES
FRANCHESKA KUBACKI
ISAIAH JOSEPH
STEVEN-ROSS BUGAYONG
ROSNEY HERRERA
ELAINE AMICO
TYRA WATTS
JUSTIN MCDANIEL
VICTORIA CIFELLI
KEYON GARDNER
JALEN GAYNOR
WAYNE DAWES
OPINION PIECES AND LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Photo by Maria Irvin
Jadion posing for the camera.
Bachelor. That's what makes him special." Cool is the word that best describes the Hamilton native. Morales has a swagger to him; he draws attention without even
continued on page 16
The Tower welcomes guest columns and letters to the editor from any source. Such material should be submitted to thetower@kean.edu or left at The Tower’s offices. To verify sources of written material, submissions must include the writer’s name and contact information. Students should include their class (sophomore, graduate, etc.) and major. Faculty and staff should include campus title or position. On request, names may be withheld from publication if The Tower staff determines there is a legitimate reason to do so, but no anonymous letters will be accepted for publication. The Tower reserves the right to edit, and refuse publication of any submission.
February, 2022
THE TOWER 7
Jack Wright and Sienna Mae Gomez Sexual Assault Allegations By Elaine Amico The case of an 18-year-old male Tik Tok influencer accusing a female 18-year-old Tik Tok influencer of sexual harrassment is capturing the attention of young singles who are talking about the role reversal claims. Sienna Mae Gomez, known for her body positivity content, and Jack Wright, a dancer known for his upbeat personality started posting content together in October 2020, and fans immediately liked the pair as a couple. The two influencers did not confirm dating speculations, but rather stated that they were just good friends as videos of their interactions together went viral. On Jan. 20, Wright posted a video to his YouTube account entitled “What Sienna Gomez did to me”, describing the sexual assault inflicted upon him throughout the course of their relationship. He told viewers that, on many accounts, Gomez repeatedly touched him and tried to kiss him without his consent and alleged that Gomez “broke into'' his house on multiple occasions. “When I was sound asleep, she would come into my room, and I'd wake up to her hand in my pants,” Wright said. “Looking back now, I don't know why I stayed friends with her, or stayed around her. I truly thought she was going to change.” Gomez responded to the accusations in a blog posted onto her official website, telling her fans that she feels Wright painted her out as the loud, crazy, overly sexualized stereotype placed upon young Latina women. “There is a counterpoint for every point Jack made in his video, but I’m not going to do thatJack,” Gomez said.“I apologize if there were times that I made you feel uncomfortable. I am sorry if anything I ever did triggered other things you
have experienced or any feelings of discomfort.” Wright then posted on his Instagram his response to Gomez’s comments. “I truly appreciate Sienna's acknowledgement that she made mistakes and that she did not fully understand consent,” Wright said. “It is a step in a positive direction. I believe Sienna is struggling to face the truth and
“We’re told all the time that men who sleep around are considered ‘the man’, and ‘that guy’. Denying sexual advances is against what we see in the media, and social norms,” Steven-Ross Bugayong, Kean University student Steven-Ross Bugayongd. “We see men in the media constantly pursuing women, and it’s just embarrassing to talk about, and men don’t like to admit it.”
“I truly appreciate Sienna's acknowledgement that she made mistakes and that she did not fully understand consent. It is a step in a positive direction.” Photo by Kean University Website
Kean’s Sexual Assault, Misconduct and Violence Policy
the harmful, painful choices she's made.” According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, 43% of men report experiencing some form of sexual harassment in their lifetime. Men who experience sexual harassment are taken less seriously than women, due to stigmas and misconceptions associated with male behavior. Society needs to recognize that any individual, regardless of gender, can be sexually harassed regardless of what the media considers “normal”.
In fact, the case of Wright and Gomez began in May 2021 when Mason Rizzo, a friend of Wright’s, released accusations that of Gomez allegedly sexually assaulteding Wright multiple times. “I struggle with seeing a girl getting praised after telling my best friend to go kill himself and sexually assaulting him multiple times after he set boundaries, and repeatedly wondering why he doesn't like you back.” Rizzo said in his post. Soon after the statement was released, Gomez quickly denied all allegations.“Two
weeks ago, I asked him to film a video with me for my mental health's sake, because I couldn't move on with everyone thinking we were still together,” Gomez said. “He told me it wasn't healthy for either of us because this would mean losing his online girlfriend.” Wright then announced that he and Gomez would be dealing with this event in private, off of social media. The two stayed rather quiet about the matter, until he came out in January with his comments. Richard Haas, an Adjunct instructor at Kean University, commented that it is unfortunate that men feel like they need to live up to “some sort of code.” “While not as prevalent, I think young men need to realize that there are instances where women in positions of influence invade male boundaries,” he said. “That invasion should be criticized and held to the same standard as male perpetrators.” Kean University has a strict no tolerance policy when it comes to sexual harrassment no matter the gender of the individual.Their first concern is the safety and well-being of the students. The university’s official website says that they offer campus resources to assist students who may have been affected by sexual violence or misconduct, and additional services are offered off campus through local communities. Individuals are encouraged to utilize all campus and community resources that can assist them. The website also has all phone numbers listed for you to call if you are experiencing any form of sexual assault. If at any point you, or someone you know need immediate contact with on campus police, their number is (908) 737-4800. n
A Tribute to Dr. Stephen Kubow at Kean-Ocean By Elaine Amico, Francheska Kubacki In the last few weeks of his life, Dr. Stephen Kubow, Associate Vice President of Kean-Ocean, had a meeting with President Lamont O. Repollet. His request: “Don’t forget about Kean Ocean.” Dr. Kubow died on May 3 after a long
“The left permanent footprints on the Kean-Ocean campus.” Photo by Keriann Kelly
The Memorial of Dr. Stephen Kubow
illness, but he is not forgotten. The Associate Vice President of Kean Ocean left permanent footprints on the KeanOcean campus, a sentiment that was expressed deeply by the many faculty, staff and students who gathered at an emotional service in November to dedicate a tree and a bench in his honor. continued on page 16
8 THE TOWER
February, 2022
Kean University Hosts the Year’s First Operation Smile
By Rosney Herrera Kean University hosts several events throughout the semester and this year they’re scheduled to host Operation Smile on March 2, 2022 at East Campus. Operation Smile is an organization created in the Fall of 2009 by a group of Kean University students. It works to educate the masses about and finance surgeries for children with cleft lip, cleft palate, and craniofacial deformities in developing nations worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the word ‘craniofacial’ is used medically to refer to the bones of the skull and face in the human body. Craniofacial anomalies are congenital deformities affecting the head or face. Cleft lips and palates, for example, are among the most frequently occurring birth abnormalities. Others are quite uncommon. They all impact how a person’s face or head appears. Some of these disorders may also affect other sections of the human body.Treatment is tailored to the nature of the issue. Reconstructive and plastic surgery may improve the patient’s look. With a new board of dedicated and active
elected officials, the group hopes, in this semester, to raise enough money through fundraisers to fund at least five surgeries, each costing on average $240.
the new board of officials to get to know each other, and to bring new students up to speed about what the organization does and how, and why.
Photo by operation smile, by Cydcors licensed under CC BY 2.0
“Cydcor Operation smile” 04/11/2013, New York, NY
Photo by By “Operation smile 2013” by Tracy Edser is licensed under CC BY 2.0
“Lung Cancer and Pulmonary Medicine” 02/22/2013, South Africa
Photo by By "operation smile journey” by operation smile is licensed under CC BY 2.0
“operation smile world journey of smiles” 10/03/2007
“There is a kind of beauty in every imperfection.” The upcoming event, however, will not be a fundraiser. According to Thaer Farhan, the program’s advisor, it will be a general body meeting with an opportunity for
In 2020, Thaer Farhan and his colleagues conducted a study to estimate the occurrence rate of craniofacial abnormalities in Iraq and how it relates to
other congenital deformities. “Only 2% of the population had a craniofacial abnormality,” Farnham said. There were 43 (54%) men and 37 (46%) women in the group. An additional internal congenital abnormality occurs in 55 of the 80 cases (69 percent), whereas 25 instances (31 percent) are unrelated, Farnham said. Like all other past Operation Smile events held in the school, the upcoming event will feature guest speakers, professionals at different capacities in the same field. “We have to thank these professionals because their services are often voluntary,” said Dr. Rita Mehta, who teaches Health. Mehta also mentioned that this year’s event will be a little different from previous ones because two of the children who have benefited from the organization’s work will be in attendance. “We have arranged to have two of our beneficiaries attend the event to tell their story,” said Mehta. “As we speak, we have completed the arrangements to have them flown from India” The program advisor, Keisha Griffin who also doubles as the event organizer, said that there will be some little entertainment for those who will attend the event. n
Garden State Guarantee Improves Kean Affordability continued from page 5
enrollment status, income, and class level. Students must be New Jersey residents, enrolled full-time (12 credits), be in their third or fourth year, and have a household adjusted gross income between $0 and $65,000. Students with a household adjusted gross income (AGI) between $65,001 and $80,000 will pay no more than $7,500 for tuition and fees. For dependent students, only guardians’
AGIs are considered, not the student’s income. For independent students, the AGI of the student and spouse, if applicable, is considered. According to the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education found on nj.gov, by reducing out-of-pocket costs for students and families, New Jersey is limiting the amount of debt that residents must borrow to attend an in-state, public college or university.
The university has taken many steps to ensure that their students are able to afford an education over the past few years, including not raising tuition and fees during the pandemic for two years and announcing the Kean Tuition Promise. The Kean Tuition Promise was announced in November of 2021 and covers up to full tuition and fees for eligible students in their first and second years of study. This program, along with the GSG,
gives students the opportunity to have a free education while at Kean. “Kean is proud to be an institution that serves a diverse student population, including a large percentage of students who are first in their family to attend college,” Michael Salvatore, Kean’s Senior Vice President for administration said. n
Photo by nj.gov
Garden State Guarantee logo Photo by kean.edu
Kean campus
Photo by kean.edu
Students at Kean
February, 2022
THE TOWER 9
System Shock Before the First Day of the Semester continued from page 4
On the other hand, some students did not even notice the problems the university had with their system. Diego Mendoza, a sophomore also majoring in Communication and Media Studies, did not notice the issues because he was already committed to his schedule and saw no need for change or extra details about his classes before the semester itself had started. “I want to know where my classes are the day the semester starts,” Mendoza said. Students were not the only ones who struggled with Kean’s systems not working. Many professors also faced some difficulties during the hours in which the university-
related programs and issue to happen websites were down. again, she expects Korin Lamourt, that due to recent an adjunct faculty bigger reliance on member, was one of technology a problem the many professors of a similar nature who experienced the could occur. disruptions. And even though Like most faculty Lamourt is not and students, the certain on how problem Lamourt one can prepare Photo by Screenshot of the email sent by OCIS experienced was the OCIS’s email regarding the issue themselves to face a inability to access the similar situation in university’s website the future, the simple for additional class information. advice she gave can be very useful for all. While she doesn't anticipate the same “I'm not sure what could be done to
Photo by Kean’s Twitter
OCIS’s logo
prepare for this in the future other than checking emails regularly for any updates,” Lamourt said. While Kean University’s system shutting down was an unfortunate event that caused a great deal of stress and problems for many students and professors, it also was an unexpected welcome back to class for students. n
American Heart Month continued from page 2
Black History Month and National Cancer Prevention Month,” Bonillas said. All three of these topics in connection to the month of February intertwine together. Making sure to take steps to ensure your health is a priority and will result in long term positive results. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, coronary heart disease is the leading cause of death for African Americans and Hispanics/Latinos. “We can say all we want, ‘you have to walk 10,000 steps a day’, but do you live in an environment where that is possible? When it comes to eating, do you have access to healthier foods?” Bonillas said.
Photo by Kean University Instagram
A fifteen minute walk per day can lead to improved cardiovascular health.
“Moderation is key when it comes to all aspects of life and American Heart Month is not the only time to focus on bettering yourself. Take time today to hydrate yourself, go for a brisk walk, and make it a priority to put your health first when possible.”
“There are strawberries that cost around six dollars a bushel, yet you can go to Wendy’s and get a four for four. All that has all these different chemicals that make your brain rush with dopamine. So, it makes you feel great and you’re full. The bushel of strawberries might not even fill you up.” said Bonillas. Moderation is key when it comes to all aspects of life and American Heart Month is not the only time to focus on bettering yourself. Take time today to hydrate yourself, go for a brisk walk, and make it a priority to put your health first when possible. n
The Valentine: Things You Didn’t Know About Kean TV’s Show That Helps Students Find Love continued from page 6
Jaidon Morales who will go on both oneon-one and group dates. On his first date to kick start season two, he was able to talk to some of the contestants but he did not see them. In the first elimination ceremony, he bases his decision only on the conversations he had, and he will only be able to see what the contestants look like after the elimination has taken place. When there are only two final contestants left, there will be a two on one date on campus, and at the end of the date, he will pick his valentine. Helping people find love is not always easy, and Kean TV has struggled quite a bit with running The Valentine. From getting
banned on dating sites to not always finding people who would want to be in front of the camera. Irvin used dating apps such as Tinder, Hinge, and Bumble to cast people for the show. In efforts of promoting The Valentine on these dating apps, she got banned from Hinge, Bumble and Tinder last year because she was reported multiple times, even though she wasn’t impersonating anyone. She had to then go on Google Voice and create a new phone number in order to hop back on Tinder under a new account to continue the search for cast members. “If I ever wanted to use a dating app–not that I want to, but if I wanted to, I’d have
to like email customer service to get my account back,” Irvin said. Kean TV sent out google forms to those interested in being casted witha list of questions that would help the staff determine compatibility. Media release forms were also shared as students have to agree and consent to being over 18 and being filmed. “This time around it’s been a little bit harder to
Photo by Kean TV’s Instagram Page
The Valentine
have people just agree to be on it,” Irvin said. “Not everyone wants to be filmed.” The Valentine episodes will be available on Kean TV’s instagram, at Keantv where you can follow along Morales’ journey to finding love on campus this semester. If you know someone you would like to nominate for the next season of The Valentine, you can inquire through their instagram. n
10 THE TOWER
February, 2022
Leaders Call for Canceling Student Loan Debt continued from Cover
social justice,” Menendez said. The Higher Education Act of 1965 grants President Biden the authority to cancel student loan debt without an act from congress. Canceling student loan debt according to Menendez would be good for the country's economic recovery. “The education data initiative estimates that canceling student loan debt could grow our gross domestic product by over $600 billion over the next six years, create 1.5 million new jobs and lift up to 5.2 million households out of poverty,” Menendez said. “Conversely, resuming student loan payments on May 1 without any forgiveness would drain about $85 billion from the US economy over the next year.” Nationally, 40 million student loan borrowers owe collectively $1.6 trillion in student loan debt. In New Jersey, according to data from the US Department of Education, more than 1.1 million borrowers have amassed $42 billion in federal student loan debt. In New Jersey, there are 1.3 million borrowers who pay on average $310 per month on their student loans. Haygood explained that though New Jersey is one of the wealthiest states in America, it has one of the worst racial wealth gaps. “[It was] reinforced over generations of racially discriminatory policy decisions that connected white people to wealth and separated people of color people from it,” Haygood said. Canceling student loan debt would transform the lives of millions of borrowers, especially those living in poor low income, and minority communities. People of color are drowning in student loan debt as they owe an average of $25,000 more in comparison to their white counterparts. Menendez explained that this issue is personal as he is a first-generation college student from a family of refugees. He said that college is more expensive now than it was when he graduated in 1976. Currently, a Pell Grant covers just about 29 percent of a low-income student's college cost, while it covered over 75 percent of his annual cost in 1976. “It is no wonder that borrowers are drowning in $1.6 trillion student loan debt and that we have 9 million borrowers in default. Our federal investments in
college affordability have not kept pace with rising costs,” Menendez said. As the pandemic wreaked havoc on the nation, especially communities of color and minority communities, Democrats have fought to provide relief to borrowers. The emergency deferment period was successfully extended multiple times, and they pushed for the reform of the public service loan forgiveness program. The emergency deferment period
borrowers and automatically removing eligible borrowers from default status. “I believe that we, as a nation, need to provide immediate relief. We need to reform the student loan system, we need to expand Pell Grants, and we need to start investing in the next generation as opposed to saddling them with unprecedented debt,” Booker said. Booker stated that the burden is falling on those who come from humble
Photo by Davaughnia Wilson
U.S. Sen. Menendez, Ryan Haygood, Velva Dawson, Delia Latini, Jason Pleitez, President Lamont O. Repollet Ed.D.
suspended student loan payments. Normally, undergraduate students have to begin paying their loans six months after leaving college or if they drop below half-time enrollment. Graduate students begin repaying their loans as soon as school begins. Additionally, Sen. Menendez and Elizabeth Warren’s Student Loan Tax Relief Act was successfully joined into the American Rescue Plan. This ensures that borrowers who qualify for debt forgiveness are protected from huge surprise tax bills. “But these are small victories in a much bigger fight,” Menendez said. Booker stated that before the federal student loan repayment starts, immediate steps should be taken, such as suspending wage garnishment from
backgrounds, immigrants, and those that are from disproportionately marginalized communities, who are struggling to manifest the American dream. Dawson, a Howard graduate, and New Jersey resident said it has been over 20 years since she graduated college, and she is still paying her student loans. “The debt after graduating has been crushing and yes 20 plus years later we are still paying,” Dawson said. “For so many years our monthly payments didnt put a dent in the principal of our loans.” According to Booker, student debt has inhibited the lives of borrowers and has forced them to delay life choices such as buying a home and starting a family. Smith explained that canceling student loan debt will assist Black and brown borrowers in building wealth, starting
families, purchasing homes, and setting up small businesses, all of which will enable the American economy to move forward. Repollet joined the discussion by saying, as a proud minority and Hispanic serving institution, Kean University students graduate with debt far below the national average. He added that more than 60 percent of Kean students receive grants or scholarships. “Yet, even here at Kean with all of our efforts and our focus on keeping a Kean University degree affordable, senator, many of our students graduate with debt that saddles them as they launch their professional lives,” Repollet said. Haygood explained that once upon a time, student loans were a valuable resource for helping students achieve economic mobility, but now, ‘they serve to entrap Black and brown students.’ He added that as colleges and universities become more racially diverse, there is a reduction in funding for education, leaving students with the financial burden to pay for college. Pleitez, a senior majoring in Business Management and president of the Student Government Association said that education is important, and everyone should be able to seek higher education and accomplish their goals without the fear of accumulating lifelong debt. “We're not only graduating with a degree we are graduating with a debt that comes along with it,” Pleitez said. He explained that he has been blessed with both a supportive family and an institution such as Kean, which has committed itself to affordable tuition as well as scholarships and financial aid for those in need. Latini, a junior majoring in communication studies, wishes to further her education by going to law school. She explained, however, that the debt that she has accumulated thus far, affects every decision that she has to make to further her education. “As a country, we simply must find solutions for these graduates and help them launch their careers and support their families. It will benefit generations of college students and contribute to a healthier economy,” Repollet said. n
February, 2022
THE TOWER 11
The Power of Involvement: Becoming a Voice for Change continued from Cover
when navigating college debt. But how did the opportunity for her to share her story and help her peers arise? Delia attributes this opportunity to her dedication in student leadership and involvement at Kean. “Going into college, I was really involved in highschool and wanted to keep that momentum. The Leadership Institute really threw me in the right direction and got me off on the right foot,” Latini explained. Latini started her college career as a student in the Bronze Leadership Program. This is a program through Kean Leadership Institute designed for first-year students within the Center for Leadership and Service (CLS). She went on to work for the very same program as a Leadership Specialist within the CLS. Sandra Espinal, assistant Director for Student Leadership and Development at the CLS explains that Latini has served as a mentor to many of the students in the Leadership Program. “Delia has been a great addition to the Leadership Institute, her energy and work ethics has impacted our students greatly. She gives 100% to making sure that our students get the best out of our leadership experience.” Espinal said. Latini has developed many professional skills that have aided her in discussions with higher-ups at the university and in her career field, all of which she credits to her involvement on campus.
“My involvement has quite literally everything to do with my professional journey in college,” Latini said. Currently, Latini is also the Junior Class Treasurer in Student Government, a member of the President’s Advisory
Matthew Caruso, spearheads the Student Leadership Council, the administration that is responsible for Latini’s campus involvement. Within these councils, Latini and her peers were able to push for different causes to be achieved on
Photo by Delia Latini
Delia Latini and her peers at Student Gov. Junior Class Movie Night 2/14/2022
Council, and the Student Leadership Council at Kean. “I knew that there was more that I could do on a higher level,” Latini said. The council meetings allow student leaders like Latini to discuss improvements for student life at Kean. Vice President of Student Affairs,
campus. Last year, the Commuter Resource Center in the Nancy Thompson Library extended it’s hours to cater to students, an initiative achieved by student leaders like Latini within these councils. Kean University President Lamont Repollet was officially installed at the
university last October. Since then, the university administration has taken active steps to improve student life at Kean. “Dr. Repollet has really followed through on the initiative to give students a voice. Kean is entering a new era,” Latini explains. “Students are taking the initiative to make the administration listen and use their resources.” Leading up to the Student Debt Cancellation Roundtable, Latini received the opportunity in an email from university relations to represent Kean Students on the topic. Latini credits earning the opportunity through the connections she made in her involvement at Kean. “I felt heard,” Latini said after the roundtable. “Sharing my story, and how it’s not the most unique story, because so many students experience the same thing, was truly something I never thought I’d do but that I’d do again in a second.” Having the opportunity to represent her student body in front of two U.S. Senators was a prideful moment for Latini. Her goal as a student leader has alway been to incite change. Latini offered some advice to aspiring student leaders on campus,“It seems crazy on paper. The long days, the sprinting from class to somewhere, and everything else in between; it seems crazy on paper. But take the challenge, try something once.” n
The Home of Art, Dreams, and Leaky Faucets continued from page 3
for 20 years explained that the building is slowly but surely getting the care and attention it needs but it is limited due to the age of the building. “Structural conditions that make renovations difficult,” Mayhall said. According to construction journal, Kean is working on a project to renovate and improve the restrooms in the building into a more modern restroom and includes the following interior finishes, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection.
Photo by Isaiah Joseph
Concrete floor replaced with new wood flooring
“Historically in the past, the windows have leaked but they may have been fixed,” Mayhall said. Throughout all the issues with the building whether it is leaking faucets, peeling paint, or gas station bathrooms the building still has potential and remains a home for all of Kean’s talented visual and performative art students. “It's not cozy but it has character,” Mayhall said. n
February, 2022
SPORTS
12 THE TOWER
Kean Athletics Introduces Cougar Culture Podcast By Ruben Nieves Kean Athletics officially has its own podcast. The Cougar Culture is the allnew podcast that covers everything in Kean sports. The first episode was released December 6. Cougar Culture releases an episode once a week and every episode they have student athletes and coaches discuss their season and many other things that might have been going on. Cougar Culture is hosted by Dorian Alerte and Jish Sokolsky. Alerte, a Kean graduate, and former sports editor of The Tower, is familiar with podcasting, the idea was brought to him by Rob Bregman, the Athletics Communication Assistant. “I had done a little bit of podcasting with a couple of my friends,” Alerte said. “I have experience interviewing and I like telling other people’s stories.” Bregman brought up the idea to Alerte about a podcast and Alerte wrote up a proposal for an idea. “I had him come up with a proposal and some research and we sat, and he pitched me with an idea,” Bregman said. “After that
Photo by Kean Athletics
Cougar Culture logo
Photo by Dorian Alerte
Alerte and Sokolsky commentating the first NJAC home game
“Getting that opportunity at a collegiate level while I am still in high school is something I could not have imagined; I am blessed to have this opportunity.” I brought it to my supervisor Kim DeRitter, and she signed off on it and to the athletic director Kelly Williams and he signed off on it.” Bregman hopes the podcast will bring more exposure to Kean athletics. “It's always about exposure,” Bregman
said. “Just highlighting our student athletes and highlighting our coaches and our alumni, not many people in the NJAC are doing.” Alerte hosts the show alongside Jish Sokolsky, a high school student and commentator for games at Kean. When Sokolsky was asked to be a part of the continued on page 16
Kean Men's Volleyball team faces off in tri-match at the Kean Harwood Arena By Keyon Gardner The Kean men's volleyball team stands (6-4) overall after winning their first four matches and went in with another explosive burst to their eighth game for the season giving their audiences a good show to watch Saturday afternoon. Senior star volleyball player Duncan Beilke dominated another game with 19 kills as his career-high at the Kean Harwood arena Saturday afternoon along with Rajheem Muelens, Ryan DiCandilo, and Maxwell Thompson who scored notable points for the team. They faced off against Juniata college and SUNY Potsdam in a split tri-match just early Saturday afternoon. Despite Kean Cougars taking the lead in the first set with a 25-22 victory over Juniata College after hitting a .360. Juniata came back and took over the second set with a 26-24 victory leaving the cougars with a shaky head start. Beilke and freshman Rajheem Meulens teamed up in the third set with eight
straight kills just as they scored with a .500 leaving the third match with a 25-23 victory. “We have a fiery bunch who are passionate about the sport of volleyball.” said Coach Charlie Ginex who believes his team turns their passion into a valuable tool that helps them win games. G o i n g back and f o r t h , Juniata closes out the fourth set with a 26-24 set victory and eventually goes for the last kill in the final set of the match. The Kean Cougars finished up Photo by Kean Athletics S a t u rd ay ' s Duncan Beilke with a kill
“I think the biggest improvements we could make are continuing to improve on our teamwork, communication, and decision making”
Photo by Keyon Gardner
Kean Vs Juniata
match with the crowd cheering on some of their most famed players. "We played some of our best volleyball all year on Saturday. On the court it felt like we were a cohesive unit” Beilke said. Beilke totaled 37 kills in two matches. Beilke and his teammates Thompson, Meulens, and Ryan DiCandilo all tallied double-digit kills for the Cougars, “who needed five sets to defeat the Bears (4-11). After trading the first four sets, the match went to a deciding fifth set,” according to Kean athletics. “I think the biggest improvements we could make are continuing to improve on our teamwork, communication, and decision making,” Duncan said. “Right now, our biggest improvement has to come in the form of consistency with the "little things" said Coach Ginex. He expects his team to represent Kean university in the best way possible, “as it has done for over a decade” said Coach Ginex. n
February, 2022
THE TOWER 13
Kean University’s new and improved men’s basketball team By Wayne Dawes Kean university’s men's basketball team currently has a 14-8 record, with their last win against Rutgers Camden on February 12 where the score was 78-75. The team's final home game is February 16 against William Paterson university. Currently sitting as the 6th seed in the New Jersey Athletic Conference, a win could jump them up to the fourth seed in the standings with a win over William Patterson and a Montclair state loss. Either way this season has been an impressive one by the basketball team and surprising to say the least. The men’s basketball team has not won 10 games or more in eight years and to see this year’s team win while building chemistry is great to witness. The men’s team started off scorching hot as they started the season with a sixgame winning streak, it almost started to feel like they were unbeatable. Then the team managed to lose three straight games but that did not phase them as they would win three out of their next four games. Jalen Hudgins, a senior forward, explained
how their losing streak after winning six straight did not mess up their chemistry or game plan.
we just keep making good plays and not get ahead of ourselves this is a very good team that can win games”.
“If we just keep making good plays and not get ahead of ourselves this is a very good team that can win games.”
Photo by Kean athletics
Jamison Notches Season-High as Men’s Basketball Sweeps Season Series with Rutgers-Camden
Photo by Kean athletics
Four Starters Score in Double Figures as Men’s Basketball Wins Wild Affair
“Every game we go out and we believe that we are going to win, at times this season we have played sloppy and that led to us losing some games”,” Hudgins said. “If
Photo by Kean athletics
Men’s Basketball Falls to First-Place Stockton
So far this season Kean has been a very good team when their games are at home with a 7-2 record, While their record on the road is not the best at 5-6”, that does
not take away the fact that this team has improved tremendously. “The chemistry with the team is good because everyone has the same motive which is to win the ball game,” Jalen Hudgins said. Hudgins is satisfied with how the team has been playing this season especially because the team has exceeded expectations when it comes to their win percentage because of years prior when the teams were mediocre at best. Now this team is locked in for the playoffs and they're looking to make a huge run once that time comes. “A win against William Paterson will be huge for us because that would put us in the top 3 or 4 seed in the playoff standings,” Hudgins said. As the season winds down the new and improved men’s basketball team is ready to make some noise in the playoffs and to let opponents know that they are able to beat any team no matter how good they are. Good chemistry and smart plays will get this team to its highest potential. n
Kean Women’s Basketball Punched their Ticket back to the NJAC Playoffs By Hector Morales Kean University Women’s Basketball Team has clinched 1st place in the New Jersey Athletic Conference and has earned the top seed in the NJAC tournament. This will be the team’s fourth straight year to the playoffs and the sixth appearance under Head Coach Mandy King since 2013. “I’m so proud and honored,” King said. “I had pretty big expectations for our team this season and these guys matched them and surpassed them.” Senior Guard Shannon McCoy helped lead the team to a successful season. McCoy is from Barnegat; New Jersey and she is going for Interior Design. Before McCoy came to Kean, she had a positive experience playing basketball at Barnegat High School and looked up to her former coach Tammy Nicolini. “She was definitely one of my biggest role models,” McCoy said. “She was the reason why I chose to pursue basketball over the
“Even though my name will be in those record books, every person on that team was still part of it and they have a part of that accomplishment as well.”
Photo by Larry Levanti
Sarah Olivero
Photo by Larry Levanti
Shannon McCoy
other sports I played in high school. She really shaped me into the player I am today because she would let me know if I was not working as hard as I could, and she
Photo by Larry Levanti
Mandy King
really helped me live up to the potential I could be and it's part of the reason why I’m successful as I had been.” The Barnegat native has 379 points this
season and 1,412 points in her career, moving 4th in the 1,000-point club. “It's a pretty big accomplishment,” McCoy said. “As a young player, many young females have those hopes and dreams of wanting to be a 1,000-point scorer and it just goes all back to the little things of what you do on and off the court. Even though my name will be in those record books, every person on that team was still part of it and they have a part of that accomplishment as well.” McCoy’s biggest game was against Rowan University on January 22nd where they were trailing 51-40 in the 3rd quarter and came back to win 68-64 on a 28-point comeback in the 4th quarter. McCoy was a big contributor to the game when she scored 25 points. “I love every minute and every second playing with them on and off the court and I think the basketball aspect as a whole is one of my favorite things here,” McCoy said. continued on page 15
14 THE TOWER
February, 2022
Kean alumni, Darin Hungerford signs with IFL, returns to United States after playing in Germany By Ruben Nieves Darin Hungerford will once again be playing football in the United States. Hungerford, a Kean alumnus, had been playing football in Germany since 2019.
me in great positions every Saturday,” Hungerford said. “I also played with great teammates, really talented guys who pushed me to be better, there were really special moments.” Kean football head coach Dan Garrett,
playing in the GFL. “Being named All-Europe First Team was a great feeling, after my first year I definitely knew I had the tools to be one of the best players in Europe,” Hungerford said. “It was very fulfilling and just more
field. “He can play multiple spots, he can play defensive end, he could play linebacker, and a jacked position in the box,” Garrett said. “He’s going to excel because he’s a competitor and he wants to play at the
“The goal will forever be to make it to the NFL or CFL and I’ll continue to work until then”
Photo by Darin Hungerford
Hungerford makes the tackle
Hungerford and teammates celebrate after defensive stop
Hungerford, a linebacker, played at Kean for three years where he had a total of 321 total tackles to go along with 21 sacks. Hungerford holds the record for a single game record of 25 total tackles and a career record of 169 solo tackles. Throughout his Kean career, he was selected as an honorable mention AllAmerican by D3football.com and a AllEast Region First Team back in 2016. He was also selected to the NJAC First-Team and ECAC South First-Team. Before coming to Kean, Hungerford played Division II football, but he knew once he came to Kean, it was the right place for him. “I’ll forever say Coach Garrett is the greatest coach in America,” Hungerford said. “A great leader or men and he really helped me a lot in life as a man and with the mindset I carry today.” Hungerford also praised many other coaches and former teammates that was a major part throughout his Kean football career. “Shoutout to coach Kreider , who spent a lot of time helping me and putting
proof of when you put your mind to Photo by Darin Hungerford Photo by Kean Athletics something and Hungerford during his time playing for Kean put in the work, anything is possible.” praises Hungerford’s time at Kean for his Garrett thought it was phenomenal hard work and dedication. when he first heard Hungerford was “He was the hardest worker in the named All-Europe First Team. room, and he led by example,” Garrett “It's something that is surreal,” Garrett said. “He pushed himself to the limits on said. “All Europe means every football everything he did, and his mindset was league in Europe; you're one of the best one that was ironclad to just put the work linebackers, I was so happy.” in.” Hungerford will continue his football Hungerford joined the Kiel Baltic career in the United States after signing Hurricanes of the German Football with the Northern Arizona Wranglers League (GFL). His time playing football in of the Indoor Football League (IFL). Germany was an experience Hungerford Hungerford thought it was time for him would never forget. to come back to the United States and “Playing in Germany was a great experience all around, I met so many great continue to develop his game. “I came to the conclusion that it was people within the Keil Baltic Hurricanes time for me to bring my game back over as well as players and people from other to the states and try to continue to grow teams,” Hungerford said. “I made many and develop my game,” Hungerford said. connections that will last a lifetime, a “Soon after deciding this, the coaching time in my life I’ll never forget.” In his 2021 season, in 10 games, staff from the Wranglers had reached out Hungerford totaled 121 tackles with 9 of and everything clicked and worked out those being a tackle for loss, to go along for me, I’m definitely grateful.” Despite the IFL being a smaller field with three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. Hungerford was named to the of play, Garrett believes Hungerford can All-Europe First Team in his second year adjust and play at different spots on the
highest level.” Hungerford also knows coming into a new league comes with different rules and different challenges, but he is looking forward to getting adjusted. “My time in the IFL will really define my career up to this point, but I’m really looking forward to getting adjusted,” Hungerford said. “Any great player in any sport is always able to adapt and adjust to new challenges and I take pride in being an ultimate competitor. I want to get in, learn, and become one of the best at my position while helping my team get some wins.” When Hungerford looks to the future of his football career, he believes the best is still yet to come and has been working to stay prepared. “There’s a lot of football opportunities coming with the USFL and XFL coming back,” Hungerford said. “The goal will forever be to make it to the NFL or CFL and I’ll continue to work until then. I’m just keeping my faith in God, and I know my time is coming.” The Northern Arizona Wranglers season begins March 18 , where Hungerford will be making his IFL debut. n
February, 2022
THE TOWER 15
Kean Women’s Basketball Punched their Ticket back to the NJAC Playoffs continued from page 13
Senior Guard and Criminal Justice major Sarah Olivero also contributed with McCoy her final season at Kean. Olivero is from Roxbury, New Jersey and is currently third in the points leader with her best game this season against Ramapo College back on December 11 where she scored 23 points. The Roxbury native enjoyed playing with McCoy and they have been roommates ever since 2018.
“She is one of my best friends,” Olivero on McCoy. “We have been roommates since freshman year and now I have someone that I’m going to spend the rest of my life calling my best friend.” The Cougars started the season 1-4 and still managed to finish the season 17-6 and with the best conference record 16-2. “We are going to take it one game at a time,” King said. “Just try to enjoy all of it because you only get this opportunity
once in a lifetime. We want to make sure we enjoy the game we love with the people we care about.” Coach King will lead McCoy, Olivero and the rest of the team to the NJAC playoffs and hopes to return to the NJAC championship. “We are going to finish our loose ends and give it all we have,” McCoy said. “As seniors, every game could be our last game and you don’t know what is going
to happen.” Their first matchup in the NJAC playoffs will be against either The College of New Jersey Lions or Rutgers-Newark Scarlet Raiders at Harwood Arena. “Our goal is a championship, but keep in mind it’s not going to be easy,” Olivero said. “Everyone is going to give us their best game and it's something that we really have to fight for. We are going to put our noses down and get to work.” n
“I think that any kind of condition or illness can make people feel vulnerable, can make them feel weak, can make them feel exposed--people do not like to feel that,” Annan Jr. explained. “Anything that makes them feel like they will have to be open to other people that’s also uncomfortable [for them]. Most people feel like there would be judgment on them if they share things that have happened in their lives, or how they think or how
Counseling Center is on social media and their website provides information as well, including an anonymous screening tool (that does not require personal information) that can indicate whether counseling is or is not needed. “Also, we [the Counseling Center] are very happy to just answer general questions,” He explains. “It does not have to be about you being in therapy, a student
It’s Okay To Seek Therapy continued from Cover
embarrassment to my parents. But, at the same time, I was officially through having to continue to bottle up my thoughts and emotions, and looked to break this cycle and notion. The subject of mental health in many communities of color is considered taboo and often stigmatized. According to the Deconstructing Stigma: Changing the Attitudes About Mental Health campaign, 1 in 5 Americans will experience mental illness
of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, said. “But I think that the way that systems of oppression function is a significant contributor to discussing mental health and also to seeking support for it.” Hernandez-Rivera referenced patriarchy as an example, saying that it might make it difficult for men to seek help or discuss their mental and emotional well being. “I also think that when we think about mental and emotional
“There’s stigmas around who we are as people and around our identities but I think part of being able to live a full life where you feel like a whole person is not allowing those stigmas and those stereotypes to jeopardize your ability to be authentic.” Photo by Cindy Lazo
Via Kean Counseling Center website page
in their lifetime and that 75% of those with mental illness said they endured the pain of stigma. And the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance’s (DBSA) website stated that individuals in racial and ethnic minority groups are less likely to receive mental health care, with 48% of white adults receiving mental health services in comparison to the 31% AfricanAmericans and Latine/Hispanics and 22% Asian Americans back in 2015. “I think it would be very difficult to identify one sole reason for why individuals don’t seek help or access [to] therapy or don’t discuss mental health.” Dr. Stephanie HernandezRivera, Assistant Director of the Office
well-being in communities of color, I feel like the system of white supremacy and the ideologies around that system has made taking care of one’s mental and emotional well-being almost like a luxury,” She said. “And so as a result I feel like that becomes something that overtime people of color have been socialized to not take care of their mental and emotional well-being because it’s perceived as a luxury as opposed to a basic need and a human right.” Dr. Vidal Annan Jr., director of the Office of Counseling, Accessibility, Alcohol and Other Drug Services, believes that lack of familiarity and not knowing how counseling and therapy works could possibly be a major reason for why some feel hesitant.
they feel. And they do not think that counseling will be different.” According to Mental Health America, for African American, Latine/Hispanic, Asian American and Native American communities attitudes towards mental health related to issues like conflict of values, negative perceptions, and lack of accessibility are attributed towards fewer people seeking health. For Kean students who are on the fence about seeking help or are like me, still apprehensive on whether to continue forward with this, there is one message I’d like to share: take that first step. Set aside those fears of judgment because prioritizing your mental health is more important, especially in the long run. Annan Jr. advises to do research and read up on what therapy is. The
can always come to the Counseling Center and ask ‘how [does] therapy work?’, ‘how often do I need to come?’, ‘what do I talk about?’ just so that the student can get a good understanding of the service.” Hernandez-Rivera says that it is okay to get support and to get help, that there is always going to be stigmas. “There’s stigmas around who we are as people and around our identities but I think part of being able to live a full life where you feel like a whole person is not allowing those stigmas and those stereotypes to jeopardize your ability to be authentic,” She said. “And even if you are not necessarily experiencing mental health challenges, it’s still good to access mental health services.” n
16 THE TOWER
February, 2022
Kean Athletics introduces Cougar Culture podcast continued from page 12
podcast, he immediately jumped at the opportunity. “When Dorian came to me with the idea I was excited from the jump,” Sokolsky said. “We would always talk about news from all the other sports in our pregame setups and I was really honored that Dorian asked me to do it with him.” Sokolsky who has been hosting Cougar Culture and commentating games believes it's an opportunity that could lead to a future in sports media. “It really is a dream come true to me, I want to be a broadcaster or involved in sports media in some way when I’m older,” Sokolsky said. “Getting that opportunity at a collegiate level while I am still in high school is something I could
not have imagined; I am blessed to have this opportunity.” Alerte, who has been working with Sokolsky since September, has said working with him has been nothing but exciting. “Jish is awesome, we were employed by the university to be sports commentators and he’s just an awesome guy,” Alerte said. “He comes in and has a ton of energy and working with him as a commentator was awesome and he is going to have a super bright future.” Bregman also has high praise for the work Alerte and Sokolsky has done since they first began working together. “I think they’ve done a great job,” Bregman said. “They play off each other
very well and you’re not bored of what they’re talking about.” Sokolsky praises Alerte’s work ethic and their time together as commentators. “Dorian is one of the most driven guys I know,” Sokolsky said. “We gelled instantly, and he has been a pleasure to work with, I never doubted his grind.” In the Cougar Culture episodes, they have after the whistle, cougar quick hits, beyond the competition, and the week ahead. Alerte and Sokolsky go through these different segments and talk about everything going on in Kean sports. “We talk about general sports news pertaining to Kean,” Alerte said. “Then we go into the segment cougar quick hits where we interview a coach and a group
of their athletes and what’s happening specifically in that sport.” Alerte is hoping to have hall of fame coaches and student athletes who might have graduated to catch up with them and have a studio to record episodes. “We do want to bring in some hall of fame coaches and some parts we want to highlight as well as bring in some student athletes to talk about what they are doing six months later,” Alerte said. “I do want us to have a studio or have a physical space to record.” You can find the Cougar Culture podcast on Kean Athletics YouTube page, Spotify, and Apple Podcast and episodes are released weekly. n
A Tribute to Dr. Stephen Kubow at Kean-Ocean continued from page 7
“In his last breath, he was thinking momentos no more that you could ask for from about Kean,” said Dr. Jessica Adams, from his trip to him, as he gave everything he did at acting associate dean and executive the Wenzhou, Kean his all.” director of Kean Ocean. “He China campus, Friends said Dr. Kubow was considered Kean University and Kean Dr. Kubow was caring, empathetic, creative and Ocean his family.” known to stay compassionate -- work that was Dr. Kubow served Kean for 28 extra hours. rewarded in June 2013 when he years. In his early academic days, He would buy Photo by Keriann Kelly Photo by Keriann Kelly became associate vice president Kubow graduated from the University dinner for staff Staff gathered for the memorial Dr. Jon Larson, President of Ocean County College of Buffalo with a bachelor's degree in and students, Dr. David Birdsell, Provost Kean University Dr. Jessica of Kean Ocean. He was in-charge Chemistry and earned his Ph.D in and always had Adams, Executive Director, Kean Ocean and Acting of overseeing and managing the inorganic chemistry, as a Silbert graduate fellow. his door open for both large and small Associate Dean Patti Martino, Executive Secretary to campus to make sure it was running the President, Kean University He first started working at Kean in September of 1993, questions. in a smooth and orderly fashion. His where he was a professor of Chemistry. He moved on to The tree that was planted in his time and leadership continues to be instrumental in the become the director of the first year seminar program and honor is a dogwood, symbolizing his love for plants that success of the Kean Ocean campus. co-director for the Center for Academic Success at Kean, bloom, a metaphor for his constant efforts to help Kean “We go back a very long time,” said Patti Martino, and in 2004, he eventually was promoted to main director. University students and staff reach their potential too. executive secretary to the president. “He loved flowers, Kubow focused on student enrollment, registration and the “There are no words to describe him,” said Assistant Kean orientation process. Vice President International Programs with Ocean County and believed that diplomacy works. Most importantly, he In his office decorated with Star Trek memorabilia and College Dr. Maysa Hayword. “As vice president, there was taught me that kindness was contagious.” n
Kean TV finds their Valentine continued from page 6
Photo by Steven-Ross Buagyong
Jadion on set for Kean TV.
trying and leaves a lasting effect on those he meets. "Jadion's cool. That's all I can say about him, "sophomore and Valentine host Diego Mendoza said. "He's a great guy. This season will be unexpected, but fun." Unexpected is the key term to define Morales’ season on The Valentine. Morales, who identifies as bisexual, will have a combination of male and female participants. "It breaks the mold of the traditional dating shows," Epstein said. "I think it's crazy we haven't seen this format yet on the Bachelor.”
Morales has been attracted to men and women since he was in the fourth grade. With the prospect of going on multiple dates and meeting new people within the next few weeks, Morales comes off as excited and nervous at the same time. Morales admits that he wasn't looking for a relationship before being casted as the Valentine. However, he's become open to the idea since getting casted. Overall, Morales seems to be excited to get the season started. "At the very least, friendship, but hopefully a relationship will come out of it," Morales said.
Morales, whose future goals consist of making documentaries and directing a biopic, hopes to find someone as passionate in their interest as he is. The film/media major student spends his free time watching movies and TV to find inspiration for his future career. Morales is also a key member at Kean University television club, where he acts and directs for several shows. "At the end of the day, I just want someone I can be myself with," Morales said. "Hopefully, I can find them through this show.” n